April is National Financial Literacy Month, an important reminder of the critical role that financial literacy plays in ensuring Americans' personal and economic well-being. At NAIFA, we believe that promoting financial literacy is not just about helping individuals manage their finances but also fostering a more prosperous society for all.

NAIFA proudly acknowledges and thanks Kent Bennett, LUTCF, CEPS, RFC, a loyal member since 1974, for reaching an impressive milestone as a NAIFA “Joint Chief” based on his lifetime contributions to NAIFA's political action committees. His generosity and willingness to give back to his industry are hallmarks of his professional success.

The independent brokerage insurance agency promotes NAIFA membership and grassroots participation while its advisors enjoy the benefits of NAIFA membership.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) and E4 Insurance Services (E4IS) have increased an educational partnership agreement, under which E4IS will promote membership in NAIFA to E4IS-affiliated agents and advisors and provide thought leadership to the NAIFA membership.

Recent findings from a McKinsey & Company study highlight a critical need for more financial professionals in the United States. As more Americans grow their wealth and look for financial guidance, the industry is confronted with a projected shortfall of up to 100,000 financial professionals by 2034. Increased reliance on personal savings for retirement, complex financial products, and rising client expectations all contribute to a growing demand that’s outpacing supply. While technology has improved productivity, attracting new talent is essential to ensure consumers continue to receive the comprehensive guidance they need.

The most common question from a new client is, “Which do I get, Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage?” This is the speech I give every time, almost word-for-word.

In today’s changing economy, personal struggles like addiction are having profound financial consequences. In a recent webinar, NAIFA Florida President Cheryl Canzanella, owner of Coastal Life Strategies and a 25-year veteran of the financial services industry, explored how the opioid epidemic is impacting families’ emotional and financial well-being—and what advisors can do to help.

Charitable giving plays a vital role in many clients’ financial plans, yet discussions often focus heavily on tax mitigation rather than the true philanthropic intent behind the gift. Selecting the right charitable planning tools ensures that clients maximize both their financial benefits and the lasting impact of their contributions.

Jeremy Vidmar, FIC, CLTC has a wealth of experience from his tenure in the insurance planning industry since 2018. With a background in banking and tax planning, he has extensive experience in estate planning, business succession, and long-term care solutions for clients across various industries. Jeremy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and pursued advanced theological studies in Rome. He is passionate about helping advisors and clients navigate complex insurance solutions.

NAIFA would like to thank E4 Insurance Services for sponsoring this episode. 

Charitable gift annuities (CGAs) offer a unique way for donors to achieve their philanthropic goals while securing a reliable income stream. Increasingly, nonprofits, donors, and financial professionals are leveraging CGAs to meet a variety of financial and charitable objectives with a single gift. Simple to establish and available in multiple formats, CGAs can even be funded through a qualified charitable distribution (QCD), making them a versatile tool for charitable planning.

Joe Breslin is a dedicated financial professional with Armstrong Dixon in Baltimore, MD, and a loyal member of NAIFA since 2018. His journey into the financial services industry is marked by a strong drive to help others achieve financial success. Reflecting on his early days, Joe remembers making thousands of cold calls to small business owners to build his client base. At the time, he worked for a large insurance company and was fortunate to have a few clients who helped him grow his network through referrals.