Elliot Glass Coral Springs Insurance

Understanding Mortgage Protection Insurance: Why Florida Homeowners Need It

2025-10-20

Mortgage protection can seem confusing at first, but it’s incredibly important if you own a home in the Sunshine State. In fact, understanding mortgage protection insurance: why Florida homeowners need it can save you from a lot of stress during unexpected events. Think about it: a job loss, disability, or major illness can appear out of nowhere. The right coverage helps you focus on recovery instead of worrying about making next month’s mortgage payment.

You might be familiar with basic homeowners insurance (protecting your home's structure), but mortgage protection insurance is different.

This coverage is designed to pay off or significantly reduce your mortgage balance if something happens to you (like death or serious illness). Below, we’ll explore what mortgage protection is all about and why it’s worth considering.

Discover mortgage protection basics

Mortgage protection insurance, sometimes called mortgage life insurance, is an optional policy that aims to keep your home secure if you become unable to pay your mortgage. Many Florida homeowners pick it up to protect themselves from life’s what-ifs, and with good reason.

Life can take an unexpected turn, and when it does, having a financial cushion can help you stay steady.

Unlike mandatory mortgage insurance that lenders sometimes require (primarily in situations with a small down payment), mortgage protection coverage is your personal choice. You can choose add-ons like critical illness or disability insurance, which can step in to cover monthly payments if you become seriously ill or temporarily unable to work.

Recognize Florida’s unique risks

Florida is known for hurricanes and storms that can do more than just damage your house. A major disaster could disrupt your job or your ability to handle everyday bills.

Coupled with the state’s average homeowners insurance premium of about $6,000 per year, many households feel the financial squeeze just keeping their standard coverage. Mortgage protection adds an extra layer of security so your home loan doesn’t become a burden if life goes sideways.

You’ll also find that some homeowners in Florida sign land contracts instead of traditional mortgages.

While these arrangements might seem convenient, they often carry added risks. For instance, buyers are usually responsible for taxes and homeowners' insurance from the get-go, and no coverage can mean serious consequences if a hurricane or fire strikes. Mortgage protection policies can fill vital gaps here too, helping you avoid losing your residence.

Distinguish from homeowners' insurance

It’s easy to mix up homeowners' insurance with mortgage protection. Homeowners insurance focuses on your house and its contents if they’re damaged or destroyed. It covers perils like fire and theft. Mortgage protection, on the other hand, is about making sure your mortgage gets paid if you can’t handle it yourself.

Homeowners insurance: Pays for repairs to your house and replacing personal belongings
Mortgage protection: Pays off or reduces your mortgage debt if you die or can’t work

One doesn’t replace the other, so you often need both to feel truly prepared.

Explore coverage features

When you think about what mortgage protection can cover, you’ll notice different options depending on your life situation:

Life coverage: Pays the outstanding balance on your mortgage if you pass away.
Critical illness coverage: Kicks in if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness, such as cancer or heart disease.
Disability coverage: Helps cover your monthly mortgage payments if you become unable to work.
Job loss coverage: May temporarily handle your payments if you lose your job unexpectedly.

These add-ons offer peace of mind, since you don’t have to worry about your home being at risk while you recover or look for new employment. It’s worth noting that different insurers offer various coverage levels and definitions, so make sure you read the fine print to see exactly what your plan covers.

Compare to personal life insurance

You can also compare mortgage protection to personal life insurance. Both pay out when you pass away, but personal life insurance is typically more flexible. For instance, it can include more comprehensive coverage for critical illnesses and disabilities.

The payout goes to your chosen beneficiaries, who can decide how best to use it. Mortgage protection usually pays directly toward settling the mortgage balance.

Some Florida homeowners opt for personal life insurance alone if they have enough coverage to pay off their mortgage. Others prefer an additional mortgage protection policy for clarity, guaranteeing that their home loan is automatically handled.

It really depends on your budget, family situation, and how comfortable you feel juggling different policies.

Summarize your next steps

Picking a mortgage protection policy starts with evaluating your personal and financial needs. If you’re worried about covering payments during an unexpected illness or job loss, you might opt for disability or critical illness coverage. If you’re mainly concerned about your family staying in your home if you pass away, life coverage might be enough.

Look at your budget, ask questions about policy details, and consider obtaining different quotes. You’ll want to ensure that your coverage aligns with the unique risks that come with owning property in Florida.

Finally, remember that it’s crucial to revisit your policy whenever something big changes in your life, such as a new child, a job change, or a significant change in your mortgage amount.

Conclusion

Mortgage protection insurance can be a lifesaver, especially in Florida. With storms, job uncertainties, and everyday responsibilities on your plate, it’s wise to have a policy that safeguards your family’s largest financial commitment.

You’ll feel more at ease knowing help is there if you become unable to make payments, whether through disability, job loss, or other unexpected events.

If you’re ready to explore a personalized plan, contact Elliot Glass Coral Springs Insurance for clear advice on the coverage options that fit your goals and budget.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need both homeowners insurance and mortgage protection insurance?

Yes. Homeowners insurance protects against property damage, while mortgage protection insures your mortgage payments if you pass away or experience a qualifying event. They serve different purposes.

2. Can I cancel mortgage protection insurance if I sell my home?

In most cases, yes. If your mortgage is paid off or you no longer own that property, you can typically cancel your policy. Always check your contract for specific details.

3. Is mortgage protection insurance worth it if I have personal life insurance?

Many people find additional value in mortgage protection because it directly addresses mortgage payments. If your personal life insurance has enough coverage to handle the home loan and other expenses, you may not need both. It depends on your comfort level and budget.

ASSURE FOR LIFE: FUNERAL ASSISTANCE PLAN

2023-02-18

ASSURE FOR LIFE gives you peace of mind, even in the most difficult times. We provide funeral services for you and your family in the US, Latin America, and the Caribbean, because we know that during a loss, you need to cope with grief and take the time to be with your loved ones.

BENEFITS WITH EACH MEMBERSHIP TO ENSURE YOUR PEACE OF MIND INCLUDES:

Funeral or cremation service and transfer of the deceased to the local funeral home, cemetery, or crematorium.
Body preparation.
Visitation room (for the basic time of each funeral home that provides the service) or home visitation team according to the use and custom of the locality.
In the event that the client chooses cremation, the funeral home selects the crematorium for the preparation and final disposition of the deceased.
Remembrance package.
Standard Urn (according to country regulations).
Final destination in accordance with the legal provisions of the country selected – lot or vault. Services and adaptation rights if the lot or vault is owned by the holder.
Legal and Civil Procedures: Consulate, Public Health License, Death Certificate.
Air ticket for the plan holder in economy class subject to airline’s availability from the United States (round trip) with the sole purpose of accompanying his/her beneficiary in the funeral process.
FREE Legal Will (Valued at $350)

HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM LIFE INSURANCE?

Undocumented Family and Friends - APPROVED
No Social Security # - APPROVED
Do you want a funeral in your Country of Origin? - APPROVED
Medical Conditions? NO UNDERWRITING - APPROVED
Incarcerated Family and Friends - APPROVED
Denied coverage? - APPROVED
Suicide is covered - APPROVED
Auto-Immune Disorder? - APPROVED

THREE FUNERAL MEMBERSHIP PLANS AVAILABLE:

INDIVIDUAL

$25 per month

SMALL FAMILY (2 PEOPLE)

$40 per month

BIG FAMILY (UP TO 7 PEOPLE)

$75 per month

What is Accident Insurance and How Does it Work?

2023-02-14

Accident insurance helps you pay for medical and other out-of-pocket costs that you may incur after an accidental injury. This includes emergency treatment, hospital stays, medical exams, as well as other expenses you may face such as transportation and lodging needs. Accident insurance can provide protection that fills the gap in coverage between medical insurance and other policies, such as workplace or vehicle insurance.

Here is a closer look at what personal accident insurance is, what it does and does not cover, and why it is useful.

What is accident insurance?

Personal accident insurance, also known as fixed indemnity insurance, provides protection for the policyholder if they get in an accident. In most cases, an accident is an unintended event that leads to injury. In some cases, someone could be partially or fully liable for causing the accident.

These policies can cover both minor damage and major disabling events. Accident insurance is different from auto, medical, or employment insurance. However, having this other coverage is necessary as well because accident insurance is not a comprehensive policy. For example, it will not cover vehicle damage or liability if you are responsible for an auto accident.

How does accident insurance work?

First, you must understand the difference between accident insurance and health insurance. Health insurance covers you for the immediate treatment that you receive after an accident, while accident insurance covers any financial burden that you incur due to the accident. This can include copayments in hospitals, physiotherapy, other services not covered by your health insurance, and any out-of-pocket expense from the accident.

One of the biggest advantages of accident insurance is that payouts come in cash, which can relieve the financial burden you experience after an accident. Furthermore, there isn’t a waiting period, so you get the money immediately.

Accident insurance premiums vary depending on coverage. It is essential to understand what the policy includes and also the types of accidents covered.

What does accident insurance cover?

Accident insurance covers qualifying injuries, which might include a broken limb, loss of a limb, burns, lacerations, or paralysis. In the event of your accidental death, accident insurance pays out money to your designated beneficiary. While health insurance companies pay your provider or facility, accident insurance pays you directly.

Accident insurance is considered supplemental insurance and is most helpful when it is used in combination with a major medical plan. Your accident coverage will take care of expenses not covered by your medical plan, such as copayments and your deductible. It will also cover non-medical costs like mortgage or rent, utility bills, and other daily expenses.

What does personal accident insurance not cover?

Accident insurance covers the policyholder and focuses on the gaps that major medical insurance or critical illness insurance is not able to cover. It is also essential to know the limits of accident policies. Here are some things that are not covered.

If you get into an accident because of a disease or illness, such as something that causes heart failure or seizures, you are likely not covered.
The policy typically excluded injuries due to extreme sports like bungee jumping or scuba diving.
You will not be covered if the injury occurs while doing illegal or criminal activities.
If the incident occurred while you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you will not get a cash payout.
Policies only cover you after becoming active. Therefore, they do not pay for injuries sustained before you activated the policy and paid your first premium.
Self-inflicted injuries are never covered by the policies.

Why is personal accident insurance important?

It is crucial to have a backup plan if you cannot work due to an accident and if you are confronted with costs not covered by other insurance plans.

Here are five reasons why an accident insurance policy is important.

It covers things not included in your regular or short-term plans for medical insurance. For example, if you need rehabilitation or equipment like a wheelchair or crutches, you may get medical care.
Medical insurance underwriting can be discriminative because it sometimes refuses to cover injuries due to pre-existing conditions. However, accident insurance coverage does not involve underwriting, so there are no such limitations.
If you are self-employed and don’t have sick days or workers’ compensation, a fixed indemnity policy can cover you for the days you are not able to work.
With the right coverage, you will not have to worry about injuries keeping you from working. You can live your life as normal knowing you have additional coverage.
Unlike medical insurance, accident insurance can be inexpensive depending on the state and the coverage you need.

Who should get accident insurance?

Paying for anything out of pocket puts a strain on your finances, especially if the accident has rendered you unable to work. An accident can happen to anyone, so it is imperative to have all members of the family on your insurance policies. Personal accident insurance can even cover children’s expenses or reimburse a parent if they have to stay home from work to care for an injured child.

Single people, elderly people, and those who play regular sports or have non-risky hobbies can also benefit from a policy that protects against the drawbacks of injuries.

Accident insurance vs. other supplemental health plans

Supplemental plans work well with medical health insurance but can also be used to protect you outside the Open Enrollment Period when you can’t enroll in a major medical health plan. It is important to understand your options in supplemental coverage and how they differ from one another so you can choose the best plan for you.

Short term health insurance

Short-term health plans offer temporary coverage when you are unable to enroll in permanent coverage. This coverage can protect you from medical bills that might arise from emergencies or health changes when you are without a major medical plan. You might be eligible for short-term health insurance if you lose your employer-based coverage and you are waiting for coverage to begin with a new employer or you are out of the Open Enrollment Period.

Short term health plans do not typically offer the same comprehensive coverage as a long-term medical plan, but they can offer quick enrollment, low premiums, and coverage for unexpected medical expenses. At eHealth, we offer a broad range of short-term health plans to help you get the coverage you need when you need it most.

Critical illness insurance

Critical illness insurance is designed to cover you in the event of a covered illness, such as a stroke, heart attack, or cancer diagnosis. Unlike a traditional medical plan that reimburses the hospital or doctor for care you receive; critical illness insurance pays a lump sum to you directly to cover costs that might arise as a result of your condition.

Like a short-term health plan, critical illness insurance can be quick to get and you can purchase it at any time of the year. You may choose the level of coverage you want to receive, and specific illnesses covered may also vary from plan to plan. Our brokers can help you find a critical illness insurance plan that meets your needs and budget best.

Fixed indemnity plans

Indemnity insurance is designed to cover things you might lose during a qualifying event, such as an accident, injury, or serious illness. Like other supplemental plans listed here, payouts from an indemnity plan go directly to you instead of your doctor or hospital. These plans are most effective when they are providing another layer of protection by covering costs not included with your major medical health insurance.

Since the money is paid directly to you, you may use the funds for any expenses you may face as a result of your illness or injury. These plans typically feature competitive rates and no deductible. The payment you receive is fixed based on the specific terms of the plan. If you want to learn more about fixed indemnity plans, contact eHealth today.

Find the right plan for you

The specialized brokers at eHealth are licensed and qualified to help you find the right accident insurance or other insurance plan that works best for you. You may purchase your plan online, through live chat, or with a phone call. We offer superior expertise, knowledge, and experience over other alternatives, so you can rest assured we can help you find the best choices for your unique situation and budget. Additionally, if you end up looking for long term individual and family health insurance, eHealth has can show you all the best options available in your area.

How Much Does an ER Visit Cost Without Insurance In 2022

2023-01-30

Any accident may occur, and people may feel severe health problems. There is the loudness of the ambulance from here and there. Then they are taken to the emergency room (ER) for treatment. Most people may opt for an emergency room as a better place to seek immediate recovery from any health problem. An ER visit is not just for accidental injury but for feeling severe health complications anyhow. In the same way, ER provides emergency services that are available there. There are skilled and dedicated doctors, nurses, and modern technology to make sure severe illnesses of the people can be prevented.

So the cost factor is one of the significant issues as ER visits are much higher than any other medical service. So it is important to know about such ER visits and also one should know how much does an ER visit costs without insurance in 2022. Here we are going to discuss a lot of issues on this topic to make sure you can know how ER visit works, the cost of an ER visit, and how you can limit the cost of an ER visit without insurance.

Emergency Department

When people get sick and ill, they are found to take treatment either at home or in the hospital. But the severity of the sickness and illness may be so high. When it goes high and people stay at home, there is the possibility of facing any danger in life. Then they might seek emergency hospitalization.

Emergency Department or Emergency room (ER in brief) is a department of the hospital and medical center where there is medical treatment on an emergency basis. Surely people may have different conditions of illness. It is just from low to severe. When there are life-risking factors and the family members think it is very crucial, they may think of the emergency department or emergency room. In this case, the patients and the people on behalf of the patients don’t have to take prior appointments. In most cases, people may be unsure about medical needs and don’t wait for a doctor’s appointment. These includes

Broken bones
Chest pain
Head and Neck injury
Serious burns
Stroke Symptoms
Uncontrolled vomiting
Vomiting with blood

How ER Visit Works

Surely emergency room is one of the most equipped and advanced rooms where people go for emergency treatment. In most cases, people may have a serious condition of heart, chest pain, head and neck injury, or serious burn. In this case, they don’t have any way to go for first aid treatment but feel the need to visit an emergency room. They rush on foot but it is common to see the loudness of the ambulance on the road as they are going to the emergency room.

Then the department or emergency room ensures initial treatment even it is a broad spectrum of illness and injuries as it is unplanned and unsure. When it comes to life-threatening, they go to immediate action in consultation with the higher consultants. But if it is seen that the patients are going to be well after taking initial treatment from the emergency room, they are not admitted to the hospital.

This type of department or room is open for 24 hours in hospitals and medical centers. There is fully equipped staff in the emergency room and they provide treatment according to the condition of the patients. But it may be seen that there is a long time waiting due to the number of emergency cases.

Now it comes to the cost and expense of the emergency room. Surely, many people may be surprised to see the higher cost of visiting an emergency room even if it is a minor case. The emergency room may be costly due to several reasons such as emergency standby doctors, higher quality of using medical supplies such as aspirin, bandages and these are provided there. There is also part of insurance and people may seek to reduce the cost by the part of the law and the cost may be so higher for the people who don’t have insurance.

Why Choose Emergency Room vs Urgent Care

When it comes to emergency treatment and medication, people seek immediate medical attention in the hospital. In this case, the emergency room is the most common issue and place to choose from. But there is another option which is urgent care. It is just about making a decision about which one can fit the best for the people who are in a bad situation.

There are still a lot of issues to know about emergency rooms and urgent care. Urgent care is a center that ensures primary care physician and emergency room services. When you need no appointment for the emergency room, you don’t need it in this care. But there is no major difference between emergency care and urgent care. Urgent care may not be available for 24 hours and some urgent care center closes at 9.00 pm or later. But the emergency care is open 24 hours and 365 days a year.

The most important issue to consider is that you need to visit the emergency room when you have life-threatening conditions like injuries and symptoms. On the other hand, it is only possible to get services when there is a non-life-threatening situation. Under urgent care, one may opt for minor cuts, back pain, minor burns, and so on. More importantly, the cost at urgent care center is less compared to an emergency room visit.

What Are The Cost Factors of ER

Surely the cost of the emergency room is much more and people may see it as horrific after getting emergency care. But it is important to distinguish between the emergency room and a normal hospital. Surely the services at the emergency room may not be possible to get at a normal hospital. On the other hand, people want to get an immediate solution to their illness and symptoms. So many people don’t even think of the cost factor. But it is also important to know why the cost of ER goes up.

The cost of an ambulance transportation

When people have a severe health problem, they call an ambulance equipped with life-saving medical equipment. It is common to see such an ambulance rushing to the patient’s home and getting them in the emergency room. For this, the transportation of the patient adds up more cost.

Emergency room costs

An emergency room is equipped with tools and instruments to make sure you can treat trauma. There are MRIs and Surgeries and high-quality supplies which are costly to treat the emergency patient for quick recovery. If you face an accident and you get trauma, it is possible to get to the emergency room, and it adds up the cost significantly. It is also important to note that the emergency room is open for 24 hours with trained and skilled staff, making the costs so high. More importantly, the emergency room needs to have uninterrupted electricity, water, food, and supplies along with medical care.

How Much Does An ER Visit Cost Without Insurance In 2022

When people get the bills after taking treatment from the emergency room, they fall from the sky. But it is important to know these costs as before so that there is a plan to reduce the cost. The ER cost may be higher compared to regular hospital bills. It is also important to note that the cost of the treatment may go higher than the fixed rate for the room when the treatment goes extensive. It can’t be said that there is a fixed cost of the emergency room but this visit may cost less than $2200. But there are different types of costs according to the type of treatment. But these costs come without insurance plans.

Chest pain may cost by $1000
Broken Bones with surgery may cost by $10000
Stitches for an accident may cost by $500
There are also some costs of the common conditions where these are treated in the ER visit and these includes
Acute Bronchitis may cost by $814
Sore Throat may cost $620
Low back pain may cost by $751
Attention to dressing or removal of sutures may cost $343

It is also important to note that this cost is not fixed for all medical centers and hospitals. There may be changes from low to higher and higher to low in different hospitals. Additionally, the cost may also be different in different states.

Recommended Post:

Average ER Visit Cost By State

The cost of an ER visit is a big issue for people who are low-income and it is important to know such cost before. Even if there is no insurance coverage, the cost goes higher and it may be sky-high for the people. This cost is also not static due to more advanced forms of treatment in the emergency room. According to a study and research, the ER cost in 2019 was found on average by $1220 without insurance. But this cost has gone up by $2200 and it may even be more by reaching $20,000 for extensive and critical care.

The cost of ER visits without insurance discussed above is just average and this can vary according to different states. So we are going to discuss the average cost of all states without insurance.

Florida: The average cost of ER visit comes by $3102 without insurance coverage.
New Jersey: The average cost of ER without insurance in this state is $3087.
California: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $2960.
Colorado: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $2886.
Nevada: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $2583.
Texas: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $2318.
Arizona: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $2283.
Idaho: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $2159.
Hawaii: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $2076.
Alaska: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $2070.
Virginia: The average cost of ER without insurance in this state is $1941.
Tennessee: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1883.
Washington D.C: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1879.
Nebraska: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1844.
Washington: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1841.
Illinois: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1818.
New Hampshire: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1787.
South Carolina: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1758.
Rhode Island: The average cost of ER without insurance in this state is $1750.
Kentucky: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1740.
Missouri: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1717.
New York: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1668.
Pennsylvania: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1645.
South Dakota: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1641.
Indiana: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1618.
Delaware: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1596.
Georgia: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1596.
North Carolina: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1589.
Mississippi: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1583.
New Mexico: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1574.
Alabama: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1496.
Wisconsin: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1496.
Connecticut: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1493.
Oklahoma: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1466.
Utah: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1464.
Minnesota: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1462.
Oregon: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1437.
Ohio: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1435.
Wyoming: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1411.
Vermont: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1386.
Iowa: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1377.
Arkansas: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1304.
Kansas: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1294.
Michigan: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1273.
North Dakota: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1245.
Massachusetts: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1200.
Louisiana: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1184.
Montana: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1138.
West Virginia: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $1127.
Maine: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $952.
Maryland: The average cost of ER visit without insurance in this state is $623.

What Happens If Insurance Coverage

ER visits may cost from $150 to $3000 in different situations and locations. Surely it is too much expensive for so many people. When you are visiting this ER, there is still available treatment for the patient. It is important to make sure this care is not cheap. So insurance is part of a law to make ER visits affordable. There may be health insurance plans with a lower monthly premium that you may go. This can help you get a cap of around $250 on emergency room expenses. In the insurance policy, there may be guidelines on coverage in terms of an ER visit. But it generally covers the most basic ER visits. More importantly, you should check your coverage where it is available based on in-Networks ERs.

How is the Cost Determined in the ER Visit by Level?

The illness, injuries, and symptoms may have different stages and this stage determines the emergency treatment process in the ER room. This stage is medically known as level and there are generally five levels from 1 to 5. This is important to know these levels for everyone who even didn’t go to the emergency room. The level is also explained as the emergency severity index scale or intensity of the illness of the people.

Level 1: Level 1 means life-threatening issues and it may be more extensive and critical treatment and care by the emergency room. The typical cost of such event may stand by $1450.
Level 2: Level 2 is not just like Level 1 but it is a severe problem that seeks urgent medical attention and evaluation. This cost may come by $870 on average.
Level 3: level 3 is not just about level 2 in which risk is a little bit low but treatment may be a good option in this case. Additionally, there is a chance of developing risk when treatment is not taken. The typical cost of such a level is $650.
Level 4: Level 4 is not just about Level 3 but people with illness in this level have less chance of death. But this type of level can’t be ignored for better health. The cost maybe $400.
Level 5: People have very limited and minor problems and the average cost of this illness may be $150.

How Can I Lower The Cost Of ER Visits

As said, ER cost is higher and it has legit ways to be high. Some low-income people may find it at a reduced rate. For there are some ways that can work to limit the higher cost of the ER visit. This includes

1. Discuss with hospital charitable programs

Surely every hospital is not for money-making and they also provide treatment for the poor people even it is higher. These hospitals do have ER but also have CSR policies. They have also a social responsibility to provide low-cost health care for low-income people. For this, you may discuss such charitable programs and get significant discounts on your bills.

2. See primary care physician

When some get injured and server symptoms, they should not opt for ER for the first time. They may seek primary care physicians that can be cheap and affordable in case it is not life-threatening issues. In this case, urgent care may be a good option indeed.

3. Try Telemedicine

Now that Telemedicine is one of the good ways to get treatment. It is a system to get treatment at home over the phone. The doctors over there are skilled and experts to hear your problem and provide solutions to your physical problem.

4. Seek free clinic

Surely there are so many free clinics and a low-cost hospital where there is also an emergency room. These free clinics charge less for low-income people. Everyone should know about these free clinics and hospitals before to make sure they can go there in their emergencies.

5. Do it right now

When we are healthy, we don’t think of our health for a single moment. But it is not right indeed. A smile health problem may be severe and one may go through a bad situation when they see the sky-high bill amount. For this, there are so many government programs like Medicaid, Medicare, CHIP that they can enroll in and get affordable health care.

6. Be prepared

When there is a serious moment, we don’t remember anything close to us that is low cost and cheap. Surely you may identify your root health problem and decide what to do. In case there is a serious health problem, you can go to an ER visit. If it is minor problem, you can go to urgent care at a lower cost. On the other hand, you should know before where there are low-cost offers and programs for ER visits near your location. This can be a good deal indeed to go for saving your money as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

So there are some questions to answer and most people seek these answers as information. So we have covered such answers to make sure you can know more.

What happens in ER visit?

An ER visit is an emergency visit that is meant as a serious health problem. When you go to an ER visit, A triage nurse normally who is the staff there will assess the condition. You may need to wait there according to their examination process and they may tell you to go to an exam room. Some doctors will review your test results and provide instructions for the next steps.

What is a Level 4 ER visit?

Level 4 is the parameter to assess the condition of the health problem. Surely there are different types of injuries and symptoms of the health. These are categorized into different levels. So Level 4 is a type of problem that explains it is so severe. In this case, urgent evaluation is mandatory to treat the complication.

How much does an ER visit cost in Florida?

Florida is one of the most expensive states in the United States of America. In the same way, ER visit cost in Florida is a little bit high. But it is found that moderate to severe ER patients have to count a bill of on average $3102. This can be lower or higher according to a different location in Florida.

Final Verdict

Health is wealth and we need to ensure it. But there is nothing to do as an accident may occur in the blink of our eyes. Then people with injury or other health symptoms may need to go to an ER visit. There are so many hospitals and clinics in every location that provide emergency care in the Emergency room. You need to study and research this emergency room and visit the cost according to your location. Surely this can be helpful when you know much before facing a bad situation.

Pet Insurance is a Great Idea Here is some pet insurance information

2023-01-29

What Is Pet Insurance?

If you buy insurance for your pet, expect to pay about $40 a month or less than $500 yearly for a basic policy. In exchange, your pet can receive emergency care that would cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars out of pocket without insurance. Many pet policies cover expensive treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy for cancer, and prescription medications.

Some policies also provide preventive care such as vaccines and well visits. However, many insurers do not cover pets that have existing health conditions, such as hereditary problems.

Even if your pet never gets sick or has an injury that requires you to use pet insurance, coverage may give you peace of mind. Otherwise, you could end up with a costly bill or a difficult decision if a medical situation arises with your dog or cat.

How Does Pet Insurance Work?

Usually, you pay a monthly premium for your pet’s coverage. Then, after a qualifying vet visit, you can submit receipts to your pet insurance company for reimbursement. Most pet insurance companies deposit funds directly into your bank account, but some send a reimbursement check.

After you pay the initial premium, you can file a claim when your pet needs care. Many insurers have a waiting period of a few days before your pet’s coverage starts. Some policies have a deductible of up to $1,000. In this case, the insurance company will only pay for eligible care after you reach the deductible amount.

When you submit a claim, the policy will reimburse you the established percentage, usually 50 to 90%. Your pet’s care may be subject to an annual cap. In this case, you would have to pay out of pocket for care that exceeds this maximum amount.

How Do You Choose the Best Pet Insurance for You?

Look for a policy that covers your pet’s unique health needs. For example, you might seek coverage for dental care, pre-existing conditions, hereditary or breed-based conditions, or behavioral issues. You might want a wellness policy to cover a new puppy or kitten through adulthood. Review the available coverage when you consider a pet insurance company.

Some insurance companies have add-on coverage to enhance basic pet policies. You can often purchase supplemental insurance for exam fees, prescription medications or food, or vaccines and other types of routine care.

The cost of pet insurance varies based on several factors. You will generally pay more if you live in an urban area than in a rural area. You can save by purchasing insurance in your pet’s younger years. Your premium will generally cost more if you have a dog, a larger breed, or a male pet.

Providing detailed information will help you get accurate quotes from pet insurance companies. You will need your dog or cat’s medical history, age, and breed, as well as your address and other requested personal details. Most pet insurance providers let you get a coverage quote and administer claims for care online.

FAQ

Is pet insurance accepted everywhere?

You can typically use pet insurance at any veterinary clinic, because most policies require you to pay out of pocket. You handle the reimbursement for the cost of care directly through your insurance provider. The veterinary office does not participate in this process beyond providing receipts for your pet’s visits. Some insurance policies give discounts for using partner vet practices in their networks.

What does pet insurance cover?

Each policy outlines its own coverage terms. Generally, pet insurance covers costs related to accidents or illnesses, such as diagnostic tests, medications, surgeries, and treatments. Some plans also cover hereditary conditions for breeds prone to these issues, behavioral issues, preventive care, and chronic health problems such as diabetes.

What is not covered by pet insurance?

Most pet insurance policies do not cover preexisting conditions. You cannot file a claim for treatment your dog or cat needed before you bought the policy. In addition, insurance will not cover anything outside your policy terms. Carefully read the fine print so you buy a policy that covers the types of treatment you expect your pet will need over a lifetime.

When should you buy pet insurance?

Purchasing insurance when your pet is young costs less than buying a policy for an older pet. It also ensures that you will be covered for medical issues that arise later in a pet’s life. If you wait until your pet becomes sick or injured, you will not be eligible to buy insurance and will have to pay the vet bills out of pocket.

Florida Life Insurance

2023-01-12

A life insurance policy in Florida allows you to set aside money to provide financial security for your loved ones upon your demise. With this policy, you will be able to:

Replace lost income
Fund retirement plans
Pay for college tuition
Provide dependency income for your family members
Indemnify a loan in the event of premature death
Protect future insurability
Fund business or partnership buyouts at the demise of one of the business owners
Insure your life
Have free estate taxes for beneficiaries.

Life insurance policies in Florida typically come in two types: term and permanent life insurance. Term life insurance provides financial protection for a specific period, mostly 10 to 30 years, while permanent life insurance provides lifelong coverage. In addition, some permanent life insurance policies have a cash value component that allows insureds to build cash on a tax-deferred basis. Hence, federal income tax does not apply to the cash value. Generally term life insurance policies always come at lower rates than permanent insurance policies.

A death benefit is usually paid out to policy beneficiaries at the insured's demise. The policyholder decides whom to list as policy beneficiaries, but minors and pets are excluded from the list. The policyholder can designate a trusted adult that will be responsible for the children. The insurer immediately pays out the death benefit when the necessary documents are submitted after the insured’s death. Death benefits can cover daily expenses, mortgage, funeral expenses, and medical expenses. Insureds with living benefit riders can access their death benefits while still alive if they are eligible. They can add living benefit riders to their term or permanent life insurance policies, including whole life, universal life, and final expense insurance. Discuss with a Florida-licensed life insurance agent that can help you compare life insurance policies from multiple insurers to ensure you settle for an affordable option. Generally, insurance agents deal with individuals on a case by case basis, so you can be assured that your particular life insurance needs will be met with the best life insurance option.

How Does Life Insurance Work in Florida?

Life insurance is a good way to financially plan ahead for the future by ensuring your loved ones are financially stable after your death. In Florida, life insurance is a contract between an insurer and the insured that involves paying out a death benefit to policy beneficiaries when the insured dies. Policy beneficiaries are the people or entities you designate to receive the policy's death benefits. These beneficiaries can be your spouse, siblings, parents, adult children, charity organizations, business partners, or a trust. College tuition fees, funeral expenses, daily expenses, and payment for outstanding debts can be covered with the death benefit obtained from the policy.

Asides from death benefits, you can also take advantage of living benefits. With living benefit riders, you will be able to access the money set aside as your death benefit while still alive. For instance, if the insured has a terminal illness rider and develops cancer during the policy term, they will be eligible to take out the death benefit to treat it. However, the amount will be deducted from the final death benefit that would be paid to the policy beneficiary after the insured's demise.

After a life insurance policy is purchased in Florida, the insured is expected to pay premiums to ensure the policy remains active. Insurers use many factors like age, gender, medical conditions, type of policy, occupation, and coverage amount to determine premium rates. Generally, when purchasing life insurance options, it is important to consider the following:

The amount of death benefit you need
Which type of policy to purchase (term life or permanent life policy)
Premium cost
The type of riders to add to your life insurance policy
The difference between life insurance quotes for each available policy

Insurers do not just automatically pay out death benefits. They are paid when the insured dies, after which the policy beneficiaries are required to file a claim with the insurance company. They would have to provide a copy of the policy, proof of identity, and a certified copy of the death certificate along with the claims form. There is usually no deadline for filing a life insurance claim in Florida, but it is always better to do it as soon as the insured dies. Before their demise, insureds can decide how the death benefit will be distributed to their beneficiaries (that is, what percentage of the benefit goes to who). They can instruct that the insurer pays it as a lump-sum payment after their death or in installments throughout the beneficiary's lifetime or a specified number of years.

What Are The Main Types Of Life Insurance in Florida?

There are two basic types of life insurance options in Florida:

Term life insurance: Provides insurance for a specified period, such as 10 to 30 years, at a reduced cost. The death benefit of term insurance policies can be used to cover college tuition fees, mortgage, or end-of-life financial obligations like burial expenses and funeral costs.
Permanent life insurance: Provides lifelong coverage to individuals. A typical example of permanent life insurance is a final expense. Other permanent life insurance variations, including universal life, indexed universal life (IUL), and whole life insurance, typically come with a cash value component.

CASH VALUE LIFE Insurance

Cash-value life insurance offers lifelong financial coverage and a cash value (CV) savings component, which does just that - it builds cash overtime, similar to an investment account. Most permanent life insurance policies fall into this category. Cash-value life insurance usually has higher premiums than term life insurance because of the cash value component. A part of the premium paid by insureds is allocated to the insurance cost, and the remaining is deposited into a cash-value account. In addition, insureds earn tax-deferred interest on their cash value account that they can access via withdrawals, loans, or surrendering the policy. The common cash value insurance policies available in Florida are:

Whole life insurance: This type of life insurance plan provides financial protection throughout the insured's lifetime. The premiums paid by the insured do not change, and a death benefit is paid to the policy beneficiaries at the demise of the insured, provided the policy was still active when the insured died. In addition to paying a death benefit, whole life insurance also has a cash savings component where interest is earned at a fixed rate. Whole life insurers sometimes offer whole life graded benefit policies to reduce cost for unhealthy individuals.
Universal life insurance: This type of permanent life insurance comes with an investment savings element plus low premiums. One major advantage of universal life insurance is that it is very flexible. After accumulating a lot of money in your cash-value account, you can increase or decrease your death benefit and premium amounts to meet your changing needs. Be aware that altering your premiums may affect the value of the death benefit.
Final expense (FE) insurance: This is a type of whole life insurance policy with a cash value component that helps senior citizens cover end-of-life expenses like a funeral, burial, and medical expenses. Final expense insurance policies usually have affordable rates and are guaranteed because it has a small death benefit and does not require medical underwriting. This type of insurance is good for retirees who no longer benefit from employer-sponsored life insurance policies and do not have an individual life insurance policy. Seniors with health issues who want to help their families cover the expenses of their funeral costs can opt for final expense insurance.

While Whole life and Universal life are primarily designed for daily healthy individuals, Final Expense is considered the go-to life insurance for seniors in Texas, who likely have a pre existing condition or two, and are unlikely to qualify for more affordable options due to medical history or age.

TERM LIFE Insurance

In Florida, term life insurance provides financial protection for a temporary period ranging from 10 to 30 years. Death benefits are paid only if the insured dies during the policy’s term. Most term life insurance policies do not accrue cash value. Initial premiums for term life insurance are usually more affordable than permanent life insurance plans. An initial premium is an amount an insured pays at the inception of an insurance contract. Term life policy is good for parents of young children and individuals with large financial obligations because they can get reasonable death benefits at a reduced cost. Also, policy beneficiaries can get significant death benefits for income replacement.

Term life insurance coverage typically ends after the policy term. Insureds can renew their policies, but their premiums will increase with age because the older they get, the higher the chances for their insurers to pay out on their policies. Additionally, insureds can convert their term life insurance policies for permanent policies like whole life policies. Doing this will attract higher premiums, but the premiums will remain the same throughout the insured's life.

What Type of Life Insurance Does Not Require a Medical Exam?

Life insurance companies in Florida often require individuals to take medical exams to assess the risks they might incur by insuring them. This examination determines whether the individual is medically fit or has a terminal illness. Insurers are not obligated to provide coverage for high-risk individuals like tobacco users and people who engage in risky hobbies like skydiving, those who have a dangerous occupation, or those who have underlying health conditions. Hence, such individuals can opt for life insurance policies that do not require medical exams, such as:

Final expense: A medical exam is not required to be eligible for final expense, but you might be required to provide answers to questions about your health.
Group life insurance: This type of policy is mainly purchased by employers or organizations for their employees or members. Group life insurance in Florida does not require filling out a medical questionnaire or taking a medical exam. However, it may be required if the employees or members of the organizations want additional coverage.
Simplified issue life insurance: This type of insurance does not require a medical exam, but individuals might just have to provide answers to basic health questions.
Guaranteed issue life insurance: No medical exams or health questionnaire is required.

Additionally, in Florida, term life policies come with a convertibility feature that can allow you to exchange your policy for permanent life insurance without taking a medical exam. Also, no medical exam is required when you need to extend your term life insurance policy upon its expiration.

What Can you Do with Life Insurance?

In Florida, there are many things you can do with life insurance policies, depending on the type of life insurance option you purchase. Some common things you can use your life insurance for are:

Paying final costs: Life insurance policies like final expenses can help reduce the stress your loved ones might face after your demise by paying for end-of-life expenses. Such expenses may include medical bills of the insured, cover funeral expenses, such as funeral service, burial or cremation, or other immediate expenses after death.
Minimize your taxes in retirement: Life insurance can be used as a pension/retirement savings tool where you can have an ongoing stream of tax-free money in retirement. If you purchased a life insurance policy with a cash value component, you could borrow against it to pay for expenses during your retirement years.
Paying off debts: Leaving large debts behind without making provisions for how they will be paid can make your loved ones suffer financially after your demise. However, having life insurance will help your loved ones receive death benefits that can be used to pay off any outstanding debts.
Providing financial support for your loved ones after your demise: With the death benefit from life insurance policies, your loved ones would not have to worry about their living expenses after your demise. This is because the amount received from the insurer would be able to cover daily expenses, college tuition fees, and mortgages.

The common idea shared between all life insurance coverage options is that you need to figure out how much life insurance is enough coverage to match your needs. Discuss your specifics with a state-licensed life insurance agent.

What is a Premium in Life Insurance?

Premium in life insurance is the amount you pay an insurer to provide life insurance coverage. In Florida, you can pay your premiums in installments or upfront using any of the following payment options:

Regular premium payment: This requires you to pay periodically or regularly, which could be monthly, quarterly, or yearly based on your agreement with your insurer.
Single premium payment: With this option, you will have to make a one-time full, upfront premium payment
Limited premium payment: You are expected to pay your premiums for the entire policy term within a specific period, such as 20 years, while the policy provides a lifelong coverage

Insurers use several factors like age, gender, tobacco usage, pre-existing conditions, claims history, and occupation to determine monthly premium life insurance rates. For instance, the younger you are, the lower your premiums. Conversely, the older you get, the higher your premiums.

What is a Death Benefit in Life Insurance?

A death benefit in life insurance is the amount of money an insurer pays out to the policy beneficiaries after the insured's demise. The insured can decide how the money will be shared before dying. Insurers are obligated to pay a death benefit only if the policy was active before the insured's death. A typical death benefit in Florida is usually tax-free.

When is Death Benefit Payable?

A death benefit is payable in Florida after the demise of the insured. Insureds should share life insurance policy information with beneficiaries after buying it to make it easier to receive death benefits. This is because there is no national insurance database or other central location that provides policy information. This might make it very difficult for policy beneficiaries to file a claim after the insured’s demise because they are not even aware that the life policy even exists in the first place.

After the insured's death, the policy beneficiary is required to file a claim with the insured’s life insurance company. The policy beneficiaries will need to fill out death claim forms stating the insured's name, policy number, Social Security number, and date of death. After filling out the form, the beneficiary will have to submit the death claim form with a certified copy of the death certificate. If the insured named multiple beneficiaries in their policy, all of them would have to complete a death claim form to receive the death benefit that accrues to them.

What is a Living Benefit in Life Insurance?

In Florida, living benefits insurance is a type of rider that an insured can add to their life insurance policies to access some of the money set aside as their death benefit while they are still alive. The amount paid to the insured would be deducted from the final death benefit that the beneficiaries are meant to receive after the insured's demise. Common living benefit riders in Florida are:

Accidental death rider
Terminal illness rider
Critical illness rider
Long-term care rider

The percentage that insurers permit insureds to access from their policies’ death benefits as a living benefit varies depending on the type of policy. For instance, insureds can use up to 20% of their death benefit for end-of-life medical care, and those with critical care or chronic care riders can get up to 35% of their death benefit. Insureds with tax-free retirement as a living benefit can borrow against nearly all cash value, as long as the policy remains paid and active once they turn 65 years old. The more insureds borrow, the less their death benefits become (since the death benefit will be used to pay off the loans at death). Insureds may be required to provide proof of life expectancy from a medical provider before access to death benefits can be granted.

What is MEC in Life insurance policy?

MEC is the acronym for a modified endowment contract. In the 1970s, insurers took great advantage of the tax-free growth of cash value policies by offering life insurance products with substantial cash value growth features. Such that insureds could borrow from their cash value tax-free. This way, they could minimize their tax obligation, and the government responded to these limitless benefits by introducing MEC.

MEC is an overfunded life insurance policy that has exceeded legal tax limits. When your life insurance policy is relabelled as a MEC by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), you won't be able to withdraw from your cash value tax-free because the money is treated as ordinary income. Your life insurance policy will change into a MEC if it was purchased on or after June 20, 1988, or if it fails the "seven-pay" test. The IRS uses the seven-pay test to determine whether your life insurance policy is overfunded.

A comparison is usually made between the total premiums you paid in the first seven years of the policy with what you would need to pay in full. If your payments exceed what is needed, your life insurance policy will be designated a MEC. However, life insurance policies purchased before June 20, 1988, are not subject to these premium limits except if the policy needs to be renewed after its initial policy term and the renewal took place before June 20, 1988. Therefore, policies that are renewed after June 20, 1988, might face the seven-pay test.

What is a Rider in Life Insurance?

Life insurance riders in Florida are optional add ons that insureds add to their life insurance policies. Some riders allow insureds to access their death benefits while still alive. It typically covers life events that a basic life insurance policy does not cover and often comes with additional costs. There are many kinds of life insurance riders available in Florida, and they vary by insurer. Some of the most common are:

Accidental death rider
Guaranteed insurability rider
Family income rider
Waiver of premium rider
Accelerated death benefit rider
Long-term care (LTC) rider
Return of premium rider
Child term rider

Why are Riders Important in Life Insurance?

Riders are important in life insurance because they help you enhance your coverage by allowing you to tailor your insurance policy to meet your specific needs and access benefits that your basic life policy doesn’t offer. You can add riders to a life insurance policy at any time, during purchase or post-purchase. Riders also help you save costs because they are cheaper than buying individual insurance policies to cover specific insurance needs. For instance, adding a $10,000 child rider to your term life policy can cost $4 to $4.20 per month, while a stand-alone child life insurance policy might cost $40 to $50 per month.

There are different types of riders available in Florida, and each rider offers specific benefits. Hence, before purchasing a rider, ensure you consult with a Florida-licensed life insurance agent. They can recommend good riders that will meet your unique needs.

What are the Top 8 Most Important Life Insurance Riders?

The top 8 most important life insurance riders in Florida are:

Accidental Death Rider: This rider is also called a double indemnity rider. If an insured with an accidental death rider dies during an accident, an additional amount of death benefit will be paid out to policy beneficiaries. The additional amount is usually equivalent to the death benefit of the policy, which makes the policy beneficiaries get twice the amount of the policy. This type of rider is good for individuals who are the sole providers of their families because the double benefits will take care of the needs of their loved ones.
Guaranteed Insurability Rider: Purchasing this rider with your life insurance policy allows you to have extra insurance coverage without the need for further medical examination, even if your health declines with age. You would not also need to do medical checkups when you have to renew your policy after it expires. A guaranteed insurability rider is good for individuals with medical histories.
Family Income Rider: This rider provides a regular monthly payment of income to insureds' family members at their demise. This amount is usually equivalent to the insured's monthly income. At the point of purchase, insureds must state the number of years their families will receive the benefits. This type of rider is beneficial to individuals who are the breadwinners of their families.
Waiver of Premium Rider: This rider allows your insurer to waive all future premiums if the insured loses their income source due to an injury or illness or becomes permanently disabled before a specified age. This waiver is usually in force until the insured can work again. The waiver of premium rider is good for individuals who are the sole breadwinners of their homes.
Accelerated Death Benefit Rider: Insureds with terminal illnesses that will shorten their lifespan can get this rider so they can have access to their death benefits while still alive. The amount received by the insured would be subtracted from the death benefit the insurer will pay to the policy beneficiaries at the demise of the insured. Many insureds who choose this type of rider have less than two years to live and use the money for medical expenses, drugs, and other expenses. Accelerated death benefit rider is good for individuals with chronic diseases, terminal illnesses, or individuals who need long-term care.
Long-Term Care (LTC) Rider: With this rider, insureds can receive a portion of their death benefits monthly to pay for long-term care costs. LTC is beneficial for individuals with stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson's disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease who have to stay at a nursing home or receive home care. To be eligible for an LTC rider, a medical professional will have to attest that the insured is:
- Unable to engage in a minimum of two activities of daily living; or
- Is cognitively impaired and would need a lot of supervision to protect their health and safety
Return of Premium Rider: Insureds who have this rider and outlive their life insurance policies are reimbursed all or some of their paid premiums over the years. However, full premiums are paid to policy beneficiaries if the insured dies during the policy term. A return of premium rider is good for anyone, especially those in good health and those who have the tendency to outlive their policy.
Child Term Rider: This rider is a term plan which parents can add to their life insurance policies for their children. They can convert it to permanent insurance without medical examination when their children mature, which is often by age 25 but may vary by insurer. However, if their children die before the specified age, a death benefit will be paid to them (parents). Child term rider is good for married individuals with children and single parents with children. Generally, individuals who have dependents should consider getting this rider.

Is There a Deductible in Life Insurance?

No, there are no deductibles in life insurance policies because they are considered personal expenses.

How Do Life Insurance Companies Operate?

Life insurance companies allow people to transfer risks to them in return for paying premiums. As a result, high-risk individuals like people with health conditions or construction workers are charged higher premiums. Life insurance companies’ business model is designed to assume and diversify risks by pooling risks from insureds and redistributing them across a more extensive portfolio. When a claim is filed, the insurer is expected to pay out claims to the beneficiaries as soon as possible if the necessary documents are complete.

Mutual vs. Stock Insurance Companies

The goal of every insurance company is to sell insurance policies to customers, but they differ based on ownership structure. For example, some insurance companies in Florida are mutuals, while others operate as stock companies. Mutual insurance companies are owned by their policyholders, while stock insurance companies are owned by their shareholders, which can be either publicly traded or privately held.

The main goal of mutual insurance companies is to maintain enough capital to meet policyholders’ needs continuously. Therefore, policyholders of mutual companies are considered co-owners of the company and can have a say in the company. In contrast, stock insurance companies seek to maximize profits for their shareholders. Hence, policyholders have no control over a stock company’s management unless they are investors as well.

If there are surplus profits, stock insurance companies can use the money to invest, pay outstanding debts, or distribute it to shareholders in dividends. They can also issue shares of stock to generate more income. On the other hand, mutual insurance companies can keep surplus profits in exchange for discounts on premiums or distribute them to policyholders in dividends. Mutual insurers cannot issue shares of stock to generate income like stock insurers. They might have to increase premiums or take loans if they need extra income.

How Can Life Insurance Companies Afford to Pay Out the Claims?

Life insurance companies in Florida can afford to pay out claims because they benefit from premiums paid by the insured. While profiting directly from premiums, insurers can also make more money by investing those premiums in bonds or stable blue-chip stocks. Insurance companies benefit from lapsed policies and expired term policies (permanent or term life policies lapse when the insured stops paying premiums). This is because they are not obligated to pay out death benefits in such situations. However, it can also lead to lost revenue because premiums will no longer be paid, and cash value can not be invested in the case of permanent life insurance policies.

How Do Life Insurance Companies Make Money if Everyone Dies?

Life insurance companies will still make money even if everyone dies. The business model of life insurance companies is all about risk prediction and diversification. This model allows individuals to provide financial protection for their loved ones in exchange for a fixed amount, commonly known as a premium. The most common ways insurers generate revenue is through premium payments and reinvesting those premiums. For instance, if an insurer receives $1 million in premiums and looks for safe, low-risk, short-term assets to invest it in, it can generate extra interest revenue for the company while it waits for possible payouts. Insurers also make money from investing premiums paid by the insured in bonds or stable blue-chip stocks. For instance, in 2020, life/annuity insurance companies made about $186 billion of revenue from premium investments after collecting about $143.1 billion for insurance premiums.

What Does Life Insurance Cover in Florida?

Life insurance coverage in Florida fall under two categories:

The cause of death: Almost all deaths are covered under life insurance policies with a few exclusions. Insurers will pay out a death benefit if the death of the insured is caused by:

Natural causes such as old age or illnesses known to the insurer
Accident
Suicide (if it occurs within two years after purchasing the policy)
Homicide (except the policy beneficiary is involved in the murder)

Death benefit expenses: Policy beneficiaries can spend their death benefit on anything they want, including daily expenses, outstanding debts, funeral expenses, or children's tuition fees.

Who Needs Life Insurance in Florida

Everyone needs life insurance in Florida, especially:

Parents with young children: The arrival of a baby should spur you to get a life insurance policy, especially if you are the sole provider in the home. This will cater for expenses like food bills, mortgage, and daycare at your demise. If your children are older, you can get a term life policy that can cover their college fees
Adults with private student loans: You don't have to be married with children before you get life insurance policies. Singles who have private student loans can also consider getting it. They can consider getting a term life insurance policy that can last the duration of the loan repayment
Spouses who provide most of the income: If your spouse would not be able to handle household and day-to-day expenses after your demise, then get a life insurance policy to provide a safety net for them after your demise. This helps to enhance their financial stability. Consider getting a policy with a large death benefit if you know your spouse is financially vulnerable
Parents who have dependents with functional needs: About 4,967,863 adults in Florida have a disability which is equal to 28% or 1 in 4 adults in 2021. If you have children of adults with disabilities and require specific care, your life insurance death benefit could ensure they continue to receive that care after your demise
Older adults without enough savings: The estimated population of Florida residents in 2021 is 21,781,128, with about 20.9% of them age 65 or older. Retirement-age adults without a large amount of savings to draw on can get final expense insurance to pay for funeral or cremation expenses when they die
Business owners: If you own a small business, you can get a life insurance policy that you can use as part of a buy and sell agreement among your business associates. Your business partners can take out a policy on each co-owner and use the death benefit to purchase the deceased owner's share of the business

Who Should Buy Life Insurance?

Consider buying life insurance if you have people who depend on your income and might suffer financially if anything happens to you. With life insurance coverage, you will be able to financially protect your loved ones in the event of your demise. There are different life insurance products you can choose from in Florida, depending on your needs. For instance, you can purchase term life insurance if you need coverage for a specified number of years. However, permanent life insurance will be a better option if you want lifelong coverage with a cash value component. If you are an older adult and you are ready to make an end-of-life plan, you can get final expense insurance to cover your funeral costs. Generally, you should consider buying life insurance if:

You are a parent with dependents
You are a business owner
Your funeral will be a burden
Your spouse relies on your income
You have debts that your family will have to pay at your demise
You want to meet your financial goals

Who Can you Buy Life Insurance on?

You can only buy life insurance with a person's consent and with whom you have an insurable interest. You will need to prove to the insurer that the person will suffer financially at your demise. The beneficiary must be involved in the entire application process, providing details of their medical history, hobbies, signature, and medical exam may be required. You can buy life insurance on your children, spouse, parents, sibling, business partner, and trusted employee.

Who Can you Not Buy Life Insurance on?

You can not buy a life insurance policy on another person without their consent. You also can not buy a life insurance policy on a stranger or even someone you just know casually. According to Florida law, you cannot buy a life insurance policy on your ex-spouse because entering a Judgment of Divorce automatically makes an ex-spouse’s beneficiary designation on insurance policies invalid.

Who is the Owner of a Life Insurance Policy in Florida?

The owner of a life insurance policy in Florida is the person who has full control over the policy while the insured is still alive. Most times, the policyholder is the same person as the insured, while other times, the insured will appoint a different person to be the policyholder. The policyholder can change the policy beneficiary, surrender the policy, sell the policy, or gift it to a relative, child, grandchild, or charity by transferring full ownership of the policy to them.

How to Choose a Beneficiary for Life Insurance?

Some essential parts of owning a life insurance policy in Florida are choosing an appropriate beneficiary(s) and keeping those choices up-to-date. For instance, your initial choice can change due to different factors like the birth or adoption of a child, marriage, or divorce. Hence, it is important to always review your named beneficiaries as life events change. Here is how you can choose your beneficiaries:

Consider the purpose of purchasing the policy and make it the driving force for determining your beneficiaries.
Be specific about whom you choose as your beneficiary, and ensure you state how the death benefits will be distributed in the case of multiple beneficiaries.
Avoid choosing pets and minor children as life insurance policy beneficiaries because children under 18 years lack the legal capacity to manage wealth, and pets do not have account numbers.
State a trusted adult that will be responsible for your minor children and pets when you are gone.

Who is a Beneficiary in Life Insurance?

A life insurance beneficiary is a person or entity you designate to receive your policy's death benefits. Possible beneficiaries include relatives, spouses, children, and charity organizations. Insurers pay the death benefit of insureds who refuse to name a beneficiary to their estates. Life insurers recommend that insureds should have both primary and contingent beneficiaries. The death benefit is paid to the primary beneficiary at the insured's demise. However, if the primary beneficiary is missing, directly involved, or an accomplice to killing the insured, or is dead, the death benefit will be given to the contingent beneficiary. If upon investigation, the insurer discovers that the contingent beneficiary is involved or an accomplice in the death of the primary beneficiary, the death benefit will not be paid out.

Who Chooses the Beneficiary?

Policyholders are responsible for choosing beneficiaries for their life insurance policies.

How to Change a Beneficiary?

Changing a beneficiary is easy, especially if you have a policy with a revocable beneficiary. In such a case, you can change the beneficiary at any time without telling them. In contrast, you need the beneficiary's consent if you have a policy with an irrevocable beneficiary. Follow the following steps to change your policy’s beneficiary:

Reach out to your insurer
Request a change of beneficiary form
Fill out the form
Ensure you accurately spell out the full names of all your beneficiaries and provide their Social Security numbers
State how you want the death benefits to be distributed if you name multiple beneficiaries
Submit the beneficiary form to the insurer

Who Should I Name as my Life Insurance Beneficiary?

Be careful when deciding who will receive your death benefit from your insurer because you will not be around to change your beneficiaries after your demise. You want to ensure that your loved ones are well taken care of when you die. Hence, do your due diligence to list reliable adults as beneficiaries. To leave money behind for your minor children, ensure you name trustworthy trustees and custodians who will cater to them. Also, you can designate a caretaker as one of your policy beneficiaries who you can trust will take care of your pets. Furthermore, you can list a charitable organization as your policy beneficiary.

Who you Should Never Name as your Beneficiary?

You should never name the following as your policy beneficiary:

Your estate: Listing your estate as your life insurance beneficiary can prevent your loved ones from getting a full death benefit payout. This is because the amount you leave behind will be subject to probate, where a judge determines your outstanding debts. Your loved ones can only access the death benefit after your creditors have been settled.
Minors: Listing a minor as your policy beneficiary complicates the death benefit payout process because the person is not of legal age. The court might be forced to appoint a guardian to hold on to the funds until the minor turns 18.
Your pets: Your insurers would not have anyone to pay your death benefit to if you list your pets as your policy beneficiaries because they do not have bank accounts and can not manage money. You can name a caretaker as one of your policy beneficiaries that would be responsible for your pets when you pass away.

How Can Life Insurance Work as an Investment in Florida?

Life insurance policies are not investments, but some of them, like whole life insurance and universal life insurance, only have an investment component that allows you to build a tax-deferred wealth. Hence, life insurance policies can be seen as an investment because of their tax-free benefits. Another way life insurance works as an investment is in retirement planning. This involves depositing huge amounts in your cash-value account such that during your retirement years, you can borrow against it as a source of income.

Is Life Insurance an Investment Vehicle?

Generally, life insurance should not be used as an investment tool, but there are several similarities between life insurance and savings accounts. For instance, some life insurance policies have a cash value component. This cash value is an investment account that allows you to build cash over time, and you can borrow against it while you are still alive. The cash value you accumulate on this insurance policy is usually tax-deferred. In addition, some life insurance policies accumulate interests and pay dividends over time like savings accounts.

What is Credit Life Insurance?

Credit life insurance is a type of insurance associated with loan indebtedness such that it helps the insured pay their loans if they die before completing repayments. Prior to October 1, 2008, the maximum amount of credit life insurance in Florida was $50,000 per creditor, and the maximum policy tenure was 10 years. However, after October 1, 2008, the amount and the duration of the indebtedness became the maximum amount of credit life insurance. Florida Seniors over 70 years of age are not eligible for credit life insurance, and existing policies typically end when the insured clocks 71.

When Does Life Insurance Mature?

Maturity dates are based on the insured's age, and it differs depending on when the policy was issued. Typically, the maturity date of all life insurance policies is after the insured's demise. However, it can also be when the insured reaches age 121, depending on which Commissioners Standard Ordinary Mortality (CSO) table was used to determine their probability of dying in a given year. When a life insurance policy matures, the insurer pays out the policy's maturity value, and coverage ends.

Does Life Insurance Cover Suicide in Florida?

Life insurance in Florida covers suicidal death as long as the policy was purchased two years or more before the insured's demise. After that, the insurer will pay death benefits to the policy beneficiaries. However, suppose the insured dies during the first two years of the policy, and the insurer, upon investigation, discovers that the cause of the death was suicide. In that case, it will not pay the death benefit to the policy beneficiaries. Instead of the death benefit, policy beneficiaries will get a refund of any premiums paid, and in the case of a permanent insurance policy, some cash value may be paid.

Cryonics and Life Insurance

You can use life insurance to achieve your cryonics goals by purchasing a sufficient amount of life insurance policy that covers your cryopreservation costs and additional expenses. In addition, ensure you designate any cryonics organization or cryonics trust as the beneficiary. This will enable the cryonics trustee or organization to have access to funds to pay for your suspension and perpetual maintenance at your demise. Therefore, your life insurance must have enough death benefits to cover your cryonics expenses and ensure that your policy does not lapse.

Is Life Insurance a Good Investment?

Permanent life insurance is a good investment because it has a cash value you can use to build cash. Also, the tax benefits that come with it make it a good investment tool.

Always discuss your life insurance needs with a knowledgeable Florida-licensed life insurance agent that works with multiple insurers. They will help analyze your specific needs and recommend the best life insurance options to meet them.

Ask Elliot Glass Coral Springs Insurance about Life Insurance Policies

2023-01-02

WHAT DO WE USE IT FOR?

Income Replacement
Final Expenses
Legacy Planning
Financial Help for Education
Living Benefits
Chronic, Critical and/or Terminal Illnesses
Medicaid Spend Down
The Deferment of the Process

WHO IS IT FOR?

If someone you love will suffer financially when you die, chances are you need life insurance because it provides cash to your family after your death.

This cash, known as the death benefit, replaces your income and can help your family meet many important financial needs like funeral costs, daily living expenses and college funding. What’s more, there is no federal income tax on life insurance benefits.

WHAT IS IT?

A life insurance policy is a contract with an insurance company. In exchange for premium payments, the insurance company provides a lump-sum payment, known as a death benefit, to beneficiaries upon the insured's death.

Typically, life insurance is chosen based on the needs and goals of the owner. Term life insurance generally provides protection for a set period of time, while permanent insurance, such as whole and universal life, provides lifetime coverage.

TYPES OF LIFE INSURANCE

TERM LIFE INSURANCE

Term life insurance is designed to provide financial protection for a specific period of time, such as 10 or 20 years. With traditional term insurance, the premium payment amount stays the same for the coverage period you select. After that period, policies may offer continued coverage, usually at a substantially higher premium payment rate. Term life insurance is generally less expensive than permanent life insurance.

UNIVERSAL LIFE INSURANCE

Universal life insurance is a type of permanent life insurance designed to provide lifetime coverage. Unlike whole life insurance, universal life insurance policies are flexible and may allow you to raise or lower your premium payment or coverage amounts throughout your lifetime. Additionally, due to its lifetime coverage, universal life typically has higher premium payments than term.

WHOLE LIFE INSURANCE

Whole life insurance is a type of permanent life insurance designed to provide lifetime coverage. Because of the lifetime coverage period, whole life usually has higher premium payments than term life. Policy premium payments are typically fixed, and, unlike term, whole life has a cash value, which functions as a savings component and may accumulate tax-deferred over time.

WHY SHOULD I BUY IT?

Life insurance is one of those things that just about everyone needs but far too few people actually have. It’s easy to put off purchasing a policy when you’re young and relatively healthy. But the longer you wait, the greater the chances of something happening before you get yourself coverage. Here are the reasons why every responsible person should consider carrying the appropriate amount of life insurance protection.

1. REPLACE LOST INCOME

Life insurance works to provide financial security to your loved ones after you pass away. You have to consider what would happen if you were to die suddenly. This is especially true if your loved ones rely solely on your income. Get yourself adequate coverage. That way, you won’t leave your loved ones helpless when the monthly bills come around.

2. COVER BURIAL EXPENSES

Sadly, even a basic funeral service can run upwards of several thousand dollars. While it’s possible to pre-pay your funeral, people don’t often think that far ahead. Pre-payment can ensure everything is in place for your loved ones after you die. However, there are risks to pre-payment. Life insurance can give you and your beneficiaries more of a guarantee, lifting a burden off of them as well as yourself.

3. PAY OFF DEBT

Just because you die doesn’t necessarily mean your debts will disappear. Your spouse may become entirely responsible for repayment of the mortgage loan on your home and any and all other loans that the family has. Life insurance allows those you leave behind to continue their standard of living even though the main bread-winner is not around any longer.

4. COLLEGE PLANNING

There are a number of ways to save money for your child’s education. You may not have thought that a life insurance policy would be a viable option. But insurance payouts can actually provide a good supplement to your savings. Also, life insurance can provide for the college education that you always wanted for your children in the unfortunate event of your premature death.

5. BUILD CASH VALUE

Whole life insurance provides permanent coverage that only ends if you cancel the policy. This type of life insurance allows you to build up cash value over time, an attractive prospect for many people. That cash value acts as an extra cushion that you can tap into at any time. This may come in handy if you have a financial emergency down the road.

6. DIVERSIFY INVESTMENTS

Some people also use life insurance as an investment tool with universal life policies. These policies are tied to a specific investment product. Then policyholders receive dividend payments based on the product’s performance. Before you dive into this type of insurance, you’ll want to read the fine print. That way you’ll know the potential risks and returns before you commit.

7. BUSINESS PLANNING

If you own a business, it’s vital that you have life insurance. This covers your obligations, so your hard work doesn’t go to waste. Are you involved in a partnership with someone else? You should both have coverage. That way, if one of you dies, the other isn’t left holding the heavy financial bag.

8. ESTATE TAXES

When someone passes away, their heirs often face estate and inheritance taxes on any assets they receive. If you’re worried about your loved ones getting hit with a big tax bill, a life insurance policy can help cover these added costs.

9. COVERAGE IS AFFORDABLE

One of the excuses people tend to make for not buying life insurance is the cost. But truthfully, coverage often ends up pretty affordable for most people. Term life tends to be less expensive than whole or universal life. Plus, the younger and healthier you are, the lower your premiums will be. Unless you smoke or have a pre-existing health condition, you could find coverage for as little as $1 a day.

10. PEACE OF MIND

No one can truly predict the future. But having life insurance means you and your loved ones can prepare for any eventuality. Even with a small policy, you may find yourself sleeping a little easier at night knowing that your family has protection in place should something happen to you.

REQUEST A QUOTE CONTACT US TODAY

Happy New Year from Elliot Glass Coral Springs Insurance

2022-12-31

Insurance Tips for a Happy New Year. With the new year ringing in, now is traditionally a time to reflect and organize for the months ahead. Many people make resolutions in January, whether it’s something like getting in more steps, learning a language or just being more present in the moment. If one of your resolutions is budgeting or simply saving more money, don’t forget to look into your insurance policies.

Elliot Glass has been a leader in the insurance industry since 2012. His experience and reputation enable him to best serve his valued clients by understanding their individual needs and offering common-sense solutions. This process saves time, money and provides peace of mind for you and your family.

Elliot S. Glass, MBA/MA is a licensed Independent Insurance Sales Agent.

QUICK LINKS

CONTACT US

FL License W100708
NPN 8081250
E&O Insured

Omicron symptoms: What we know about illness caused by the new subvariants

2022-12-25

The omicron variant of the coronavirus was first detected in late 2021. It has since swept the globe, eventually vanquishing other variants including delta. Here’s what experts have to say about the infection symptoms caused by the latest omicron subvariants.

797

Omicron symptoms: What we know about illness caused by the new subvariants

Erika Edwards and Marina Kopf and Sara G. Miller and Reynolds Lewis and Berkeley Lovelace Jr. and Daniella Silva

Wed, December 21, 2022 at 11:00 AM EST·7 min read

In this article:

Coronavirus

The omicron variant of the coronavirus was first detected in late 2021. It has since swept the globe, eventually vanquishing other variants including delta.

Omicron soon began branching off into a number of subvariants: BA.2 took off in the spring, and BA.5 came to dominate towards the end of the summer. In late fall, the subvariants B.Q.1 and B.Q.1.1 together became the predominant form of the virus in the United States.

They are not alone — other omicron subvariants including XBB, BF.7 and yes, still BA.5 are also out there.

But do they cause more severe illness?

Here’s what experts have to say about the infection symptoms caused by the latest omicron subvariants.

What are the symptoms of omicron subvariants?

The symptoms of the latest omicron subvariants are mostly similar to those of the earlier version of omicron.

Dr. Roy Gulick, the chief of infectious diseases at Weill Cornell Medical Center and NewYork-Presbyterian, said typical symptoms of the omicron subvariants include:

Sore throat
Hoarse voice
Cough
Fatigue
Nasal congestion
Runny nose
Headache
Muscle aches

Unlike earlier variants like delta that affected the lungs, omicron and its subvariants tend to cause more upper respiratory symptoms, said Dr. Armando Meza, chief of infectious disease at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in El Paso. Those symptoms can include congestion, sore throat and changes in taste and smell.

Dr. Joseph Khabbaza, a pulmonary and critical care physician at the Cleveland Clinic, said symptoms can be vague, similar to what is seen with any kind of flu-like virus.

Still, it is virtually impossible for people to rely on symptoms to self-diagnose an illness. Doctors urge people who have any cold symptoms or flu-like symptoms to get tested.

Meza noted that when people are tested for Covid, the tests don’t look for which variant the person has.

“We assume that the most prevalent variant in the community is the one that they got infected with,” he said. “There really shouldn’t be a big difference in terms [of symptoms] that you can tell one from the other. It’s really more of a subtle difference that you find out after the fact.”

Does the vaccine or booster protect against the omicron subvariants?

In August, the Food and Drug Administration authorized a new version of the Covid booster that targets the spike protein of both the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants. This booster also targets the original strain of the virus that was first detected in Wuhan, China, in late 2019.

As of December, the updated booster has been authorized for everyone ages 6 months and older.

During the first omicron wave, the variant caused a milder illness in people who were up to date on their Covid vaccinations.

Researchers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in November that the updated bivalent booster was better at preventing symptomatic Covid infections than the original booster shots.

Later CDC research found that the updated boosters are more effective at preventing hospitalization than the original booster, particularly for adults ages 65 and up.

Do the omicron subvariants cause severe illness?

Omicron and its subvariants have, for the most part, caused less fatal infections than previous variants, Meza said, especially compared to what was seen with the delta variant and the original strain of the virus.

Part of the decrease in severity may be because the virus tends not to burrow deeply into the lungs as much as previous variants, but remains higher up in the respiratory tract, experts say.

In that way, the illness may act more like bronchitis than pneumonia, said Dr. Hugh Cassiere, the director of critical care services for Sandra Atlas Bass Heart Hospital at North Shore University Hospital on Long Island, New York.

“Usually patients with acute bronchitis tend not to be short of breath. They tend to cough and produce sputum,” Cassiere said. “Patients with pneumonia tend to be short of breath and feel more fatigued than bronchitis in general.”

Khabbaza said that recently, Covid cases he’s seen in the ICU have had a lesser degree of severity than earlier in the pandemic: Patients haven’t needed to be on oxygen for as long and have stayed in the hospital for shorter periods of time.

Another possible factor in decreased severity is increased prior immunity. “People are also getting less sick because their immune system has seen it already,” Khabbaza said.

When do omicron subvariant symptoms start?

The time it takes for an infected person to develop symptoms after an exposure is shorter for the omicron variant than for previous variants — from a full week down to as little as three days or less, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

That still appears to be the case with the latest slew of subvariants.

“Most patients are coming in with three or four days of incubation,” Meza said.

Dr. Anita Gupta, an anesthesiologist and critical care physician at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, said it’s possible that the incubation period could be shorter or longer depending on a number of variables, including age, underlying health problems and vaccination status: “There is no hard-and-fast rule here.”

In fact, prior immunity may play a role in symptoms appearing sooner after infection. That’s because the immune cells attacking the virus, rather than the virus itself, can be the cause of symptoms.

“Now that most of us have some combination of vaccine or infection that our immune system has seen Covid, it’s almost like you have an army of immune cells ready to pounce once the virus enters you,” Khabbaza said.

How long do omicron subvariant symptoms last?

Earlier in the pandemic, Covid symptoms could drag on.

“A lot of these patients are not having the symptoms for the 10 to 12 days that I saw when there were no vaccinations,” said Dr. Rahul Sharma, the emergency physician-in-chief at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medicine.

Sharma noted that, in general, symptoms appear to be shorter and milder in vaccinated people compared to unvaccinated people.

For vaccinated people, emergency room or hospital stays are also typically shorter with the omicron subvariants, Sharma said.

“What I can tell you is that patients that are unvaccinated are definitely our sicker patients,” Sharma said. “Those are the patients that are more likely to go to the ICU. Those are the patients that are more likely to be admitted to the hospital.”

Dr. Ryan Maves, an infectious diseases and critical care physician at Wake Forest University School of Medicine in North Carolina, agreed, saying the overwhelming majority of Covid patients he sees in the intensive care unit are unvaccinated.

When should I get tested for Covid?

Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious diseases expert at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, advised that anyone who has been in contact with an infected person get tested about 72 hours after the exposure.

“If you’ve been exposed and now you’re asking yourself, ‘When should I get tested?’ I think you would best wait at least three days to see if you’ve turned positive,” he said.

If you have a known exposure to someone with Covid but don’t have any symptoms, the CDC recommends waiting at least five full days before testing.

How long am I contagious with an omicron subvariant?

A person is generally contagious a day or two before symptoms begin and at least two or three days after. Then, as the immune system kicks in, contagiousness should start to go down.

The CDC recommends that during the first five days of a mild Covid illness, you should isolate to avoid spreading the infection to others. Then, if you no longer have symptoms, wear a mask around others for the next five days.

If you test negative on two consecutive rapid tests 48 hours apart, you can take the mask off before day 10, the CDC says.

Could infection with an omicron subvariant lead to long Covid?

During the first omicron wave, some experts said the variant could lead to long Covid, even with mild cases. A June study from British researchers found that the omicron variant appears less likely to cause long Covid symptoms than delta, although all of the 41,361 adult participants who regularly reported their Covid symptoms on a phone app had been vaccinated.

Patients with long-term symptoms can experience crushing fatigue, irregular heart rhythms and other issues months after their initial Covid infections. That occurred during the first wave of the pandemic, and it continued to lead to long Covid issues through the delta wave.

Previous research suggests that vaccination can reduce the risk for long Covid.

Follow NBC HEALTH on Twitter & Facebook.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com

Medicare

2022-12-20

Medicare is our country's health insurance program for people age 65 or older. Certain people younger than age 65 can qualify for Medicare too, including those with disabilities and those who have permanent kidney failure.

The program helps with the cost of health care, but it does not cover all medical expenses or the cost of most long-term care. You have choices for how you get Medicare coverage. If you choose to have Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) coverage, you can buy a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy from a private insurance company.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is providing equitable relief to people who could not submit premium-Part A or Part B enrollment or disenrollment requests timely due to challenges with contacting us by phone. This relief applies to the 2022 General Enrollment Period, Initial Enrollment Period, and Special Enrollment Period.

If you were unable to enroll or disenroll in Medicare because you could not reach us by phone after January 1, 2022, you will be granted additional time through December 30, 2022.

For more information, call 1-800-772-1213 or use our Office Locator to find the number for a local office.

The Parts of Medicare

Social Security enrolls you in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B).

Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) helps pay for inpatient care in a hospital or limited time at a skilled nursing facility (following a hospital stay). Part A also pays for some home health care and hospice care.
Medicare Part B (medical insurance) helps pay for services from doctors and other health care providers, outpatient care, home health care, durable medical equipment, and some preventive services.

Other parts of Medicare are run by private insurance companies that follow rules set by Medicare.

Supplemental (Medigap) policies help pay Medicare out-of-pocket copayments, coinsurance, and deductible expenses.
Medicare Advantage Plan (previously known as Part C) includes all benefits and services covered under Part A and Part B — prescription drugs and additional benefits such as vision, hearing, and dental — bundled together in one plan.
Medicare Part D (Medicare prescription drug coverage) helps cover the cost of prescription drugs.

Most people age 65 or older are eligible for free Medicare hospital insurance (Part A) if they have worked and paid Medicare taxes long enough. You can sign up for Medicare medical insurance (Part B) by paying a monthly premium. Some beneficiaries with higher incomes will pay a higher monthly Part B premium. To learn more, read Medicare Premiums: Rules For Higher-Income Beneficiaries.

Should I Sign Up For Medical Insurance (Part B)?

With our online application, you can sign up for Medicare Part A and Part B. Because you must pay a premium for Part B coverage, you can turn it down.

If you’re eligible at age 65, your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes the month you turn age 65, and ends three months after that birthday.

Note: Important Upcoming Change – Rules for 2023 and later: If you accept the automatic enrollment in Medicare Part B or if you sign up during the first three months of your IEP, your coverage will start the month you’re first eligible. Beginning January 1, 2023, if you sign up during the month you turn 65 or during the last three months of your IEP, your coverage starts the first day of the month after you sign up.

The following chart shows when your Medicare Part B becomes effective in 2022:

In 2022, if you sign up during this month of your IEP	Your Part B Medicare coverage starts
One to three months before you reach age 65	The month you turn age 65.
The month you reach age 65	One month after the month you turn age 65.
One month after you reach age 65	Two months after the month of enrollment.
Two or three months after you reach age 65	Three months after the month of enrollment.

The following chart shows when your Medicare Part B becomes effective in 2023:

Beginning in 2023, if you enroll in this month of your IEP	Your Part B Medicare coverage starts
One to three months before you reach age 65	The month you turn age 65.
The month you reach age 65, or one to three months after you reach age 65	The first day of the month after you sign up.

If you choose not to sign up for Medicare Part B but then decide to do so later, your coverage could be delayed. You may have to pay a higher monthly premium for as long as you have Part B. Your monthly premium will go up 10% for each 12-month period you were eligible for Part B, but didn’t sign up for it. This does not apply if you qualify for a "Special Enrollment Period" (SEP).

If you don’t sign up for Medicare Part B during your IEP, you have another chance each year to sign up during the “General Enrollment Period” (GEP) from January 1 through March 31. Your coverage starts the first day of the month after you sign up. Read our publication Medicare for more information.

You may have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or health insurance based on current employment. If so, you may want to ask your personnel office or insurance company how signing up for Medicare will affect you.

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

You may have medical insurance coverage under a group health plan based on your or your spouse's current employment. In this case you may not need to apply for Medicare Part B at age 65. You may qualify for a "SEP” that will let you sign up for Part B during:

Any month you remain covered under the group health plan and you or your spouse's employment continues.
The eight-month period that begins with the month after your group health plan coverage or the employment it is based on ends, whichever comes first.

WHO IS IT FOR?

Typically senior products are designed to benefit those people who are 65 and older. Many of these people are at or near retirement age and their needs for health insurance and life insurance change drastically. Most experts recommend using the services of a licensed insurance agent when seniors are faced with these new challenges.

WHAT IS IT?

Typically, senior products are medicare supplement or MA plans that help seniors pay for those expenses not covered under Medicare and final expense life insurance plans that help cover burial costs.

CLICK HERE FOR YOUR PERSONALIZED MEDICARE QUOTE!

CLICK HERE FOR INFO

WHY SHOULD I BUY IT?

Many seniors are on a fixed income after retirement and they need extra help in covering out-of-pocket expenses associated with uncovered medical bills. They also want the peace of mind that their children will not be burdened with bearing the costs of their burial at the time of their death.

ARE YOU TURNING 65 SOON? IF SO, YOU WILL BE ELIGIBLE TO ENROLL IN MEDICARE.

Plan ahead and review your options with Elliot Glass. Call 954-637-3750 to make sure you're covered with the right Medicare Advantage or supplemental plan at the right price.

ARE YOU OVER 65 AND WANT TO CHANGE YOUR MEDICARE OPTIONS?

From October 15 to December 7, you have the opportunity to make changes to your Medicare Advantage or Medicare prescription drug coverage.

HOW DO MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS WORK?

Medicare Advantage Plans, sometimes called "Part C" or "MA Plans," get your Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) coverage from the Medicare Advantage Plan and not Original Medicare.

WHAT'S MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT INSURANCE (MEDIGAP)?

A Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy, helps pay some of the health care costs that Original Medicare doesn't cover, like co-payments, coinsurance, and deductibles.

Some Medigap policies also offer coverage for services that Original Medicare doesn't cover, like medical care when you travel outside the U.S. If you have Original Medicare and you buy a Medigap policy, Medicare will pay its share of the Medicare-approved amount for covered health care costs. Then your Medigap policy pays its share.

A Medigap policy is different from a Medicare Advantage Plan. Those plans are ways to get Medicare benefits, while a Medigap policy only supplements your Original Medicare benefits.

VIEW THE MEDICARE BASICS GUIDE WATCH THIS VIDEO

Elliot Glass Coral Springs Insurance

Understanding Mortgage Protection Insurance: Why Florida Homeowners Need It

Discover mortgage protection basics

Recognize Florida’s unique risks

Distinguish from homeowners' insurance

Explore coverage features

Compare to personal life insurance

Summarize your next steps

Conclusion

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

ASSURE FOR LIFE: FUNERAL ASSISTANCE PLAN

BENEFITS WITH EACH MEMBERSHIP TO ENSURE YOUR PEACE OF MIND INCLUDES:

HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM LIFE INSURANCE?

THREE FUNERAL MEMBERSHIP PLANS AVAILABLE:

INDIVIDUAL

SMALL FAMILY (2 PEOPLE)

BIG FAMILY (UP TO 7 PEOPLE)

What is Accident Insurance and How Does it Work?

What is accident insurance?

How does accident insurance work?

What does accident insurance cover?

What does personal accident insurance not cover?

Why is personal accident insurance important?

Who should get accident insurance?

Accident insurance vs. other supplemental health plans

Short term health insurance

Critical illness insurance

Fixed indemnity plans

Find the right plan for you

Related Articles

How Much Does an ER Visit Cost Without Insurance In 2022

Emergency Department

How ER Visit Works

Why Choose Emergency Room vs Urgent Care

What Are The Cost Factors of ER

The cost of an ambulance transportation

Emergency room costs

How Much Does An ER Visit Cost Without Insurance In 2022

Average ER Visit Cost By State

What Happens If Insurance Coverage

How is the Cost Determined in the ER Visit by Level?

How Can I Lower The Cost Of ER Visits

1. Discuss with hospital charitable programs

2. See primary care physician

3. Try Telemedicine

4. Seek free clinic

5. Do it right now

6. Be prepared

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens in ER visit?

What is a Level 4 ER visit?

How much does an ER visit cost in Florida?

Final Verdict

Pet Insurance is a Great Idea Here is some pet insurance information

What Is Pet Insurance?

How Does Pet Insurance Work?

How Do You Choose the Best Pet Insurance for You?

FAQ

Is pet insurance accepted everywhere?

What does pet insurance cover?

What is not covered by pet insurance?

When should you buy pet insurance?

Florida Life Insurance

How Does Life Insurance Work in Florida?

What Are The Main Types Of Life Insurance in Florida?

CASH VALUE LIFE Insurance

TERM LIFE Insurance

What Type of Life Insurance Does Not Require a Medical Exam?

What Can you Do with Life Insurance?

What is a Premium in Life Insurance?

What is a Death Benefit in Life Insurance?

When is Death Benefit Payable?

What is a Living Benefit in Life Insurance?

What is MEC in Life insurance policy?

What is a Rider in Life Insurance?

Why are Riders Important in Life Insurance?

What are the Top 8 Most Important Life Insurance Riders?

Is There a Deductible in Life Insurance?

How Do Life Insurance Companies Operate?

Mutual vs. Stock Insurance Companies