BY: CHUCK DUDLEY, Vice President
(501) 318-0010 | cdudley@heritagetrust.com
Chuck Dudley
LUC IS THE WORD!
As readers of this newsletter have seen over the past several years, I have been emphasizing a “word” called LUC. LUC stands for Liquidity, Use and Control. It seems to me that simple economics would dictate these qualities are highly important in the decisions one makes about their financial matters. Your “Money Matters”, if you will.
Over the next 3 months, we will look closely at the meanings of each of these words comprising LUC. As you probably know, the word “luck” is very similar. Luck means that good fortune happened due to unforeseen positive circumstances. I’ve seen sports teams talk about luck as the ball fortunately bounced their way, or have bad luck when it didn’t. That brings “HOPE” into the equation, and we all know that HOPE IS NOT A VALID STRATEGY when it comes to financial matters.
LIQUIDITY DEFINED
Using dictionary.com (what happened to the books……….?), the definition that fits our topic is: “the ability or ease with which assets can be converted into cash”.
I’ve heard so often about people that are dirt rich and cash poor. It simply means that a lot of their assets are tied up in real estate or property, and to get access to the cash, one major thing has to take place. That would be a sale of the property. Or possibly they could go to a bank and borrow against it for cash, but then you have a liability to pay the bank back. So, really, not a lot of cash available with the exception of rents paid to you.
Ultimately, all of your assets need to be converted to cash for use at some point in your life. It might be to fund college education for your kids, retirement cash flow for you and your spouse, or to pass along to your heirs in the most efficient and tax friendly manner.
Brokerage accounts can provide liquidity, but again, a sale must take place. Retirement funds are liquid too, but with a price. Taxes and potential penalties are looming if you must liquidate prior to the government mandated rules imposed on such retirement vehicles.
A STRONG CASE FOR A LIQUID ASSET
Since none of us know what life holds in the future, it is important to maintain a ready supply of liquid funds and sources. Of course a savings vehicle is important, if for nothing more than having a safety net below you when unexpected things happen such as job loss or health related issues. As a general rule, having half of your annual salary in savings is the way to go. It allows you to weather the storm that appeared overnight.
Another very good option is high cash value life insurance policies. In keeping with the theme of using money smarter and wiser, a high cash whole life policy can help you provide protection, a cash buildup, and access to the money via loans and return of basis. These needs might include buying cars, finishing college education for your kids, business opportunities, retirement income and extended health care needs.
Of course, there is a lot more to it, and that’s where we can help you.
ACTION PLAN FOR LIQUIDITY
If you want to really have a LUC-Y financial plan in place, we will listen. We’ve been able to help families learn to use money wisely, and we’d like to help you too. We would be honored to visit with you about how to help you and your business. My number is 501-318-0010, or you can send me an email at cdudley@heritagetrust.com.
An hour of your time spent analyzing your situation might make a lifetime of difference
Arkansas Insurance Producer # 1005698
