I was told, however, that if I were to take a loan and default, it would trigger a 1099, treating it as ordinary income, meaning pay the penalty plus related taxes. 

Interesting but sobering article on those who fall on hard times & for many reasons could not prepare for the inevitable .... retirement.https://www.marketwatch.com/story/many-older-americans-are-living-a-desperate-nomadic-life-2017-11-06

Richard,If you do not get any specific recommendations you should check Foremost Insurance's and American Modern Insurance's websites for who represents them. 

I am not an American citizen but I am applying for the green card, which I should get in one year or little more.

Their choices are:Don't allow the pets to continue to do these things.Get rid of the pets.Get out of the house.Personally, I am not a fan of pets in my homes, but approx 60% of americans have pets and only 40% of rentals are pet friendly.

Do you think the American people pay enough in taxes?

We know the average American saves less than 2% so if they get the cash, they will spend it.If you have concerns about inflation, leverage up as much as you can for as long as you can.

Each year the amount of money I have invested in the Roth IRA is a larger part of my net worth, and it will never be taxed with either ordinary income tax, or capital gains tax.  

My company American Eagle Equity is looking to work with a reliable turn key operation in Jacksonville, Florida.

Actually @Michael Lee, Chicago has a shrinking population. only large city in American to have lost population over the last couple of years.