After the Storm: Filing a Claim
The Louisiana Department of Insurance advises policyholders affected by storm damage to act now. Here are tips that can help you navigate the claims process:
Contact your insurance agent. Gather as much information as you can about your policy including how much time you have to file a claim.
Reduce your losses and keep track of the damage. Snap a few pictures of any damage to your property. Residents are also encouraged to make temporary repairs.
Keep your receipts. Your policy could cover the cost of temporary housing if you’re unable to continue living in your home due to damage.
Agents, adjusters and contractors identification. Speak with your adjuster and contact the Better Business Bureau in your area before signing contracts for repairs.
If you have lost your agent or insurance company’s contact information, the Louisiana Department of Insurance may be able to help you locate it. Contact the department at 1-800-259-5300 or visit www.ldi.la.gov.
Reducing Your Risk of Identity Theft
Identity theft occurs when a person uses your information to commit fraud or unlawful activity. Using your social security number or date or birth, someone may open new credit card or a bank account in your name. Here are consumer protection tips:
- Don’t carry your social security number in your wallet except for a specific purpose. Always keep it in a separate place from your driver’s license.
- Shred pre-approved credit card offers and bills before disposing of them.
- Be careful of where you use credit cards online. Make sure the website is legitimate.
- Educate yourself about phishing and other practices that hackers use to steal your personal information and get into your computer.
Identity theft insurance provides coverage for expenses related to reclaiming your financial identity. Before purchasing a policy, make sure you understand what is covered and shop your rates with several insurers.
Medicare: FAQs
How can I replace a lost or damaged Medicare card?
Medicare beneficiaries can create or log into their Medicare account at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-Medicare for assistance.
I would like to make changes to my Medicare coverage. When does Medicare Open Enrollment begin?
Medicare Open Enrollment runs October 15- December 7. Beneficiaries can make changes to both health and drug coverage during this time.
What is the Louisiana SeniorRx Program?
The Louisiana SeniorRx Program connects qualified, low-income people with discount prescription drugs direct from the pharmaceutical manufacturer. Counselors are available to provide drug plan comparison and enrollment assistance.
What is Medicare Part A and what does it cover?
Medicare Part A is hospital insurance. It helps pay for inpatient care in a hospital or skilled nursing facility, some home health care and hospice care.
I have original Medicare and I have received a Medicare Summary Notice. Is this a bill?
A Medicare Summary Notice is not a bill. It outlines all services billed to Medicare and shows what Medicare paid. It’s best for a beneficiary to review all the services and supplies listed to confirm it’s what they received from a provider.
Upcoming Events
Opelousas Elderly Awareness Seminar
Date: July 12
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Location: New Zion Baptist Church
251 Nimitz St., Eunice
Homeowners 101: Knowing Your Policy
Who: Louisiana Department of Insurance and the Louisiana Housing Corporation
Date: July 13
Time: 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Location: Virtual
Register
Chateaux Estates Civic Association
Date: July 19
Time: 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Location: Kenner City Park
3800 Loyola Dr., Kenner
Claims Adjuster Workshop
Date: July 20
Time: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Location: Southern University at New Orleans
6400 Press Dr., New Orleans
Claims Adjuster Workshop
Date: July 25
Time: 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Southern University at Shreveport
Small Business Development Center
3050 Martin Luther King Jr., Dr., Shreveport
Homeowners 101: Knowing Your Policy
Who: Louisiana Department of Insurance and the Louisiana Housing Corporation
Date: July 27
Time: 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Location:Virtual
Register
View Louisiana's Open Meetings Law on the legislative website by clicking here.
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