When Layla, a 37-year-old mother of two from Florida, bought life insurance, it was a simple  just-in-case  move. Her main goal? Make sure her kids were financially secure if something ever happened to her.

She didn’t know she’d need it so soon.

And she definitely didn’t know that she’d be the one getting paid.

One year after she signed up for a living insurance plan, Layla was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive autoimmune disease that left her unable to work and drowning in medical bills.

Her job didn’t offer disability coverage. Her health insurance wouldn’t cover certain medications. She was terrified. Until she remembered one thing:

This policy includes living benefits. You can use it while you're still alive if you're critically or chronically ill.

She called her insurance company. Two weeks later, she received $150,000 — money that helped pay for treatment, home care, and household bills. She didn't have to go into debt or beg friends and family for help.

That payout didn’t just keep her financially stable — it gave her hope, control, and dignity.

What Are Living Benefits in Life Insurance?

When you think of life insurance, you probably think about a death benefit. That’s the amount your loved ones receive when you pass away. But there’s a growing type of coverage people are turning to: life insurance with living benefits.

What are living benefits ?

Living benefits (also called accelerated benefits) let you, the policyholder, access part of your death benefit while you're still alive — if you’re diagnosed with:

• A terminal illness
• A chronic illness (e.g. needing help with daily living like bathing, eating, or dressing)
• A critical illness like cancer, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, or organ transplant

These aren’t separate policies — these are riders added to term or permanent life insurance plans. Think of them as an emergency financial parachute.

Why Are Living Benefits Life Insurance Plans Gaining Popularity?

Let’s look at the numbers in the U.S.:

• 66% of all bankruptcies are tied to medical issues
• 56% of Americans can’t cover a $1,000 emergency with savings
• 1 in 3 people will face a critical illness before retirement

Living benefits help you fight back — financially — when life hits hard.

The top benefits of life insurance with living benefits

- You get cash while you’re alive

-  You can use it however you want — no restrictions

-  Helps avoid debt during medical crises

-  You don’t need to die for your policy to be useful

-  You still leave money behind for your family

Who Should Get a Living Insurance Plan?

A living insurance plan, also known as life insurance with living benefits, is an essential financial tool that can benefit many people at different stages of life. Unlike traditional life insurance, which only pays out after death, a living insurance plan offers protection while you’re still alive. It allows you to access part of your insurance benefits if you are diagnosed with a serious illness such as cancer, a heart attack, stroke, or other critical conditions. The purpose of this plan is to help you financially survive life’s unexpected health challenges.

People who should consider getting a living insurance plan are those who have financial responsibilities, limited savings, or simply want peace of mind. If you have family members who depend on your income — such as a spouse, children, or even aging parents — then you are a strong candidate for this type of insurance. In the event that you become seriously ill and cannot work, your living benefits can help cover essential expenses like your mortgage, utility bills, child care, or medical costs. It protects your family from financial hardship while you focus on recovery.

Even if you are young and healthy, getting a living insurance plan can be a smart move. Younger individuals often qualify for lower insurance premiums, and purchasing a plan early means you can lock in better rates. Moreover, life is unpredictable. A major illness or accident can happen at any age, and having a living benefits plan ensures that you are financially prepared for such events.

Self-employed people and business owners also greatly benefit from this kind of insurance. Unlike employees who may receive disability or health coverage from their employer, entrepreneurs often bear full responsibility for their income. If illness strikes, a living insurance plan can provide the money needed to keep your business running and support your personal needs during recovery.

For those approaching middle age or retirement, living insurance adds an extra layer of financial security. Health risks tend to increase as we get older, and having the ability to access funds during an illness can prevent the need to dip into retirement savings or go into debt. It ensures that your financial goals stay intact, even if your health doesn’t.

In simple terms, a living insurance plan is for anyone who wants to protect not just their future, but their present. If you have people who rely on you, if you have bills to pay, or if you simply want to be ready for life’s unexpected turns, then this plan can be a smart and responsible choice. It provides a cushion during difficult times and lets you focus on getting better without worrying about money.

So, whether you're just starting your adult life, supporting a family, building a business, or preparing for retirement, a living insurance plan offers peace of mind and real financial help when you need it the most.

How Much Can You Get with Living Benefits?

Every insurer sets different limits, but typically you can receive up to 90% of your death benefit if you qualify.

For example:

• You purchase a $500,000 term life policy
• You're diagnosed with a qualifying illness
• You may receive $250K–$400K while you're alive
• Your beneficiaries receive the remaining balance after your passing

That money can go toward:

• Medical bills
• Home modifications
• Childcare
• Living expenses
• Debt repayment
• Alternative treatments

How to Apply for a Policy With Living Benefits

Ready to explore your options? Here’s how to start:

1. Search for “life insurance with living benefits near me”

Local advisors and agencies can offer tailored quotes for your region.

2. Compare policies online

Use keywords like:

• Best living insurance plans 2025
• Term life insurance with living benefits USA

3. Speak with an agent

Ask if:

• The policy includes critical, chronic, and terminal illness riders
• There are waiting periods or restrictions
• You need a medical exam

4. Look at both term and permanent life options

• Term life = cheaper, fixed period (e.g., 20 or 30 years)
• Permanent life = more expensive, lasts your whole life, may include cash value growth

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Plan for Death. Plan to Live.

Most people buy life insurance thinking they’ll never see a penny of it. But with living benefits, that’s not the case.

You're not just protecting your family after death — you're giving yourself a lifeline in case the unexpected happens while you’re still here.

In today’s world of rising medical costs and economic uncertainty, having a living benefits life insurance plan is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make.

Layla didn’t think she’d ever need it.

But when she did, it was there — ready to help.

Thinking of signing up for a AAA membership but not sure if it’s actually worth it? Or maybe you’ve seen those “Join for just $X/year!” ads and are wondering what the real benefits are? Every month, thousands of people Google "what is AAA," "how much to join AAA," or "is AAA worth it?" , trying to make the smart choice before pulling out their credit card.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know using a listicle format: pricing, perks, membership levels, and whether it really delivers on its promises. Whether you're in the U.S. looking for roadside help or just curious about AAA travel discounts, this article will walk you through the facts before you commit.

1.  What Is AAA and Why Do So Many People Join?

AAA (pronounced Triple-A) stands for the American Automobile Association. It’s been around since 1902 and is best known for roadside assistance, but the membership now covers much more , from travel planning to discounts on insurance, hotels, car rentals, and even theme parks.

AAA has regional clubs all across the U.S., and some benefits may vary depending on where you live — but the core services are fairly standard.

Quick Facts:

Over 60 million members in the U.S , 24/7 roadside assistance across the country

Travel, insurance, and DMV-related services . exclusive member discounts (dining, movies, hotels)

2.  How Much Does AAA Cost in 2025?

If you're wondering how much to join AAA, the answer depends on the membership tier you choose. Here’s a breakdown of AAA pricing in most regions (prices may vary slightly):

• Basic/Classic: $38–$60/year Perfect if you only want the essential roadside help.
• Plus: $75–$100/year For longer tows and extra perks like free fuel delivery and lockout help.
• Premier: $120–$160/year Premium service with extended towing (up to 200 miles), travel interruption reimbursement, and concierge services.

Some clubs also charge a one-time enrollment fee (usually $10–$20), but often run limited-time offers or discounts for new members.

3. What Exactly Does AAA Cover?

AAA membership goes way beyond just jump-starts and towing. Here’s what most plans include:

• Roadside Assistance: Towing, flat tire changes, battery service, fuel delivery, lockout service
• Trip Planning & Maps: Yes, they still offer paper maps + digital trip planning tools
• DMV Services: In some states, AAA lets you renew your license or vehicle registration
• Travel Discounts: Hotel, car rental, cruises, flights, and vacation packages
• Auto Services: Discounts on car repairs, maintenance, and even insurance
• Identity Theft Protection: Included in Premier plans

Depending on your tier, the distance AAA will tow your car and the number of service calls you can make per year will differ.

4. Travel More? AAA Might Save You Hundreds

If you're someone who travels at least twice a year, whether by car, plane, or cruise , a AAA membership can be surprisingly valuable.

Save up to 20% at hotels like Marriott, Hilton, and Best Western , discounts on Amtrak, theme parks, and international travel packages.

Travel insurance and trip interruption coverage , 24/7 global travel assistance for Premier members .

AAA also has its own full-service travel agents ,  so if you hate booking things online or need custom support for a honeymoon, business trip, or cruise, that’s a big plus.

5. Not Just for Drivers: Discounts for Everyday Life

AAA isn’t just for car owners. Even if you don’t drive much, you can still use the membership to save money at home .

Dining & Shopping: Save at restaurants, apparel stores, electronics, and more , movie Tickets: Discounted tickets for Regal, AMC, and Cinemark .

Prescription Savings: Up to 75% off at participating pharmacies , insurance & Home Services: Partner discounts on auto, home, renters, and even pet insurance .

This makes AAA worth considering even if you’re not on the road daily.

6.  Is AAA Insurance Worth It?

Many people don’t realize that AAA also offers auto, life, and home insurance through its own network of providers.

AAA auto insurance can be very competitive, especially if you:

• Bundle home + auto
• Have a clean driving record
• Want additional perks like accident forgiveness or travel coverage

Some users report that the AAA insurance premium is lower than major companies like GEICO or State Farm — but it’s always smart to get a quote and compare.

7.  So… Is AAA Really Worth the Membership Fee?

Drive long distances , need roadside assistance , travel or book hotels , Want consistent, hassle-free discounts .

If you only drive 5 miles to work and never leave town, maybe not. But if you’ve ever been stranded on the highway or had to call a tow truck, you know how quickly one service call pays for the whole year.

Most users find that one emergency tow or hotel booking discount can cover the entire membership fee.

Final Thoughts: AAA – A Small Price for Big Peace of Mind

In 2025, with rising travel costs, higher towing fees, and more people hitting the road, AAA remains a solid investment for many Americans. It’s not just about towing anymore , it’s about having a support system behind you whether you're on the highway, booking a hotel, or renewing your license.

If you're still on the fence, consider starting with the Basic plan to test it out. You can always upgrade later.

When investors look for the best S&P 500 ETF to buy, they’re often searching for a fund that combines low fees, strong long-term performance, and reliable exposure to the U.S. stock market. While many ETFs track the S&P 500, not all are created equal.

Some offer ultra-low expense ratios, others have higher trading volumes or better tax efficiency. Choosing the best S&P 500 ETF depends on your investment goals, whether you're focused on minimizing costs, maximizing returns, or holding for the long term.

Why Invest in an S&P 500 ETF?

Before jumping into the list, here’s why S&P 500 ETFs remain a popular choice:

Diversification: You own a tiny piece of 500 large US companies across all major sectors , Passive Investing: ETFs track the S&P 500 index, requiring no active management.

Cost Efficiency: Many S&P 500 ETFs come with ultra-low fees compared to mutual funds , Liquidity: Highly traded ETFs make buying and selling easy at fair prices.

5 Best S&P 500 ETFs to Buy in 2025 (Lowest Expense Ratio & More)

1. SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY)

Expense Ratio: 0.09% , overview: The oldest and most liquid S&P 500 ETF. SPY is a favorite among traders because of its massive daily volume.

Why Buy: If you want easy trading access, tight bid-ask spreads, and a trusted name, SPY is a solid pick ,  Best for  Traders and investors prioritizing liquidity and market accessibility.

2. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (IVV)

Expense Ratio: 0.03% ,  overview: IVV offers the lowest expense ratio among the big three S&P 500 ETFs, making it very cost-efficient.

Why Buy: If you want to hold for the long term and reduce fees eating into your returns, IVV is excellent and best for: Long-term buy-and-hold investors who prioritize low fees.

3. Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO)

Expense Ratio: 0.03% , overview: VOO is Vanguard’s flagship S&P 500 ETF, known for its investor-friendly approach and low cost.

Why Buy: Similar to IVV, it has an ultra-low fee, with a strong reputation for tracking the index closely , best for: Cost-conscious investors looking for a trusted, widely accessible ETF.

4. Schwab U.S. Large-Cap ETF (SCHX)

Expense Ratio: 0.03% , overview: While not strictly an S&P 500 ETF, SCHX tracks the Dow Jones U.S. Large-Cap Total Stock Market Index, very similar to S&P 500.

Why Buy: For investors looking for an alternative with equally low fees and broad exposure ,  best for: Investors interested in broad large-cap exposure at minimal cost.

5. Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight ETF (RSP)

Expense Ratio: 0.20% , overview: RSP weights all S&P 500 companies equally rather than by market cap, offering a unique risk/reward profile.

Why Buy: For those wanting diversification beyond market cap weighting, potentially capturing more upside from mid-sized companies , best for: Investors seeking a different approach within the S&P 500 space.

What’s the Cheapest S&P 500 ETF to Buy?

Both IVV and VOO come with an industry-leading expense ratio of just 0.03% — meaning you pay only $3 annually for every $10,000 invested. This ultra-low fee is hard to beat and has a huge impact on long-term returns.

If you want to minimize costs, these two ETFs top the list.

Which S&P 500 ETF is the Best for You?

Choosing the best S&P 500 ETF depends on your needs:

Tips Before Buying an S&P 500 ETF

• Check your brokerage: Not all brokers offer every ETF, and some may charge commissions.
• Consider your currency: If you trade outside the US, think about currency risk and trading hours.
• Review your investment goals: ETFs suit different strategies, from retirement to short-term speculation.
• Understand tax implications: Some ETFs have tax advantages depending on your country.

Final Takeaway: Start Smart, Invest Low-Cost

The best S&P 500 ETF to buy in 2025 often boils down to two key factors: cost and liquidity. The lowest expense ratio S&P 500 ETFs like IVV and VOO give you the most bang for your buck long term, while SPY’s unmatched liquidity suits active traders.

If you want to reduce fees, improve diversification, and own a piece of America’s largest companies, pick an S&P 500 ETF that fits your trading style and budget. Start investing today and let your money work hard for you with one of these top ETFs.

John had always dreamed of owning a home. After serving in the military for over six years, he figured it was finally time. He’d heard about VA loans — the kind where you might not need a down payment — but he wasn’t sure if he qualified. Like many other veterans, he started searching:

- How to qualify for a VA loan
- VA loan requirements for buyers
- Who qualifies for a VA loan?

What he found surprised him — the process wasn’t as complicated as he feared, but there were important rules he had to meet.

The first thing he learned was that VA loans aren’t available to everyone. They’re a special benefit offered to veterans, active-duty service members, some members of the National Guard or Reserves, and certain surviving spouses.

John checked his service history and discovered he qualified because he had served over 90 days during active duty. That was step one.

Next, he found out about something called the Certificate of Eligibility, or COE. Without it, lenders can’t process your VA loan. Luckily, he could request it online, and his lender even offered to help get it instantly through the VA system.

Even though VA loans don’t require a down payment, lenders still want to see that you can afford the home. That meant John needed a steady job, enough monthly income to cover his mortgage, and not too much debt. He also checked his credit score. It wasn’t perfect, but it was above 620, which is what most lenders look for in 2025.

John was relieved to learn that he didn’t need to buy a mansion — just a home he planned to live in full-time. That’s because VA loans can only be used for primary residences. They’re not for vacation homes or investment properties.

There was one cost he didn’t expect: the VA funding fee. It's a one-time payment most buyers make when getting a VA loan. John found out he could roll it into the loan, which helped.

He also learned that some veterans with service-connected disabilities don’t have to pay this fee at all.

Finally, John applied through a VA-approved lender. The process felt smoother than he expected because his lender understood the VA program well. After some paperwork, a home appraisal, and final checks, John was approved. No down payment. No private mortgage insurance. Just a home that he could finally call his own.

How to Qualify for a VA Loan in 2025

Qualifying for a VA loan might seem complicated, but it's actually quite straightforward if you meet a few key conditions.

To qualify, you need to:

1. Meet military service requirements. This usually means you’ve: Served at least 90 days during wartime, 181 days during peacetime, Or completed 6 years in the National Guard or Reserves. Surviving spouses of service members may also qualify under specific conditions.
2. Get a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This document confirms to your lender that you're eligible. You can apply for one online through the VA’s eBenefits portal, by mail, or have a VA-approved lender request it for you.
3. Have stable income and a manageable debt-to-income ratio. Most lenders prefer a DTI (debt-to-income ratio) below 41%, but some allow more with strong compensating factors.
4. Meet credit score requirements set by lenders. The VA doesn’t require a specific credit score, but most lenders look for 620 or higher. Some may go lower with additional documentation.
5. Plan to live in the home. VA loans are only for primary residences, not for second homes or investment properties.

Who Qualifies for a VA Loan?

VA loans are available to those who have served or are serving in the U.S. military. You may qualify if you fall into one of these categories:

• Veterans with an honorable discharge who meet service time requirements.
• Active-duty service members who have served long enough.
• National Guard and Reservists who meet the service length criteria.
• Surviving spouses of veterans who died in service or from service-connected causes.

Final Thought

Buying a home can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re not sure where to start. But if you’ve served in the military or are a qualifying spouse, a VA loan could be the easiest, smartest path to homeownership in 2025.

Like John, you don’t need to be rich, have perfect credit, or save for years just to afford a down payment. All you need is the right information, a little preparation, and a trusted lender by your side.

VA loans exist because you’ve earned them.

This isn’t just a mortgage — it’s a well-deserved benefit for your service and sacrifice.

So if you’re wondering “Who qualifies for a VA loan?” or “How do I get started?”, remember this:
You’re closer than you think.

Take that first step today. Your dream home is waiting.

The snowball method is a popular debt repayment strategy where you focus on paying off your smallest debts first while making minimum payments on larger ones. Once the smallest debt is cleared, you roll the payment you were making on it into the next smallest debt, creating a "snowball effect" that accelerates your progress.

What Is the Snowball Method for Debt?

The debt snowball method is a repayment strategy where you focus on paying off your smallest debts first, regardless of interest rate, while making minimum payments on your larger debts.

Once a small debt is paid off, you roll that payment into the next smallest one , like a snowball rolling downhill and growing in size , It’s all about building psychological momentum.

Every small win motivates you to tackle the next one.

7 smart ways to use the debt snowball method and gain momentum toward financial freedom.

1-  List All Your Debts from Smallest to Largest

The debt snowball method focuses on quick wins to keep you motivated. By knocking out smaller debts first, you free up money faster and build confidence. Think of it like building a snowball—start small and roll it until it becomes unstoppable.

Example:

-  Credit Card A: $450

-  Store Card: $1,200

-  Personal Loan: $3,500

-  Car Loan: $9,000

- Credit Card B: $11,000

Use a simple spreadsheet or free budgeting app to organize your debts.

2-  Focus Only on the Smallest Debt First

Pay the minimum payments on all debts except the smallest one , then, put any extra cash you have toward that smallest balance. It could be an extra $50, or maybe you can sell unused items to find $200.

Why it works:

Paying off a debt gives you a psychological win. You see progress. You stay motivated. And motivation is crucial in debt payoff.

3- Automate Minimum Payments to Avoid Late Fees

Late fees can kill your progress. Set up automatic payments on every debt (except the one you’re attacking) to ensure you’re always on time.

This builds trust with creditors and protects your credit score—even while you work the snowball method.

4-  Roll Over Payments After Each Win (The “Snowball Effect” in Action)

Once you pay off that first debt, take the amount you were paying and apply it to the next smallest debt.

Example:

- You were paying $100/month on Credit Card A.

- After that card is paid off, you now pay $100 + $40 (the minimum on Card B) = $140/month toward Card B.

Every time you eliminate a debt, your snowball gets bigger. That’s the “snowball effect”—small progress that grows into massive momentum.

5-  Cut Expenses and Increase Your Snowball Power

Want to supercharge your results? Look for small lifestyle tweaks that can give you more money to add to your snowball.

- Cancel unused subscriptions

- Cook meals at home more often

- Use cashback or rewards apps

- Pick up a side hustle or freelance gig

Even an extra $100/month can cut months off your debt journey.

6- Avoid New Debt While You’re in “Snowball Mode”

Nothing kills progress like swiping your card again after paying it off.

Lock your credit cards, remove them from digital wallets, or even cut them up if necessary. While you're using the snowball method, your goal is to reduce debt, not trade one balance for another.

If emergencies are your concern, build a mini emergency fund of $500–$1,000 alongside your payoff plan.

7- Track Your Progress (Celebrate the Wins!)

Keep a visual tracker—like a debt payoff chart or digital dashboard—to celebrate each time a balance hits zero.

Celebrate each win:

- Take a picture of the “$0 balance” screen.

- Share your progress anonymously in finance forums or groups.

- Reward yourself (in a small, budget-friendly way) with each milestone.

This keeps your motivation high and your focus sharp.

Final Thoughts: The Snowball Method Works Because It’s Human

If you're searching for “how to get out of credit card debt” or wondering about “the snowball effect in debt”, you’re probably tired of feeling buried.

Here’s the truth:
It’s not always about math. It’s about mindset.

The debt snowball method gives you confidence, momentum, and clarity. It works because it speaks to human psychology—not just cold hard numbers.

And once the ball starts rolling, it becomes unstoppable.