Medicare 101: Open Enrollment
As the weather gets cooler and lines for flu shots form, it’s time to start thinking about 2018 health care options. If you are over 65 or otherwise eligible for Medicare, now is the time to review your coverage and benefits and make decisions about your plan for the coming year. Medicare Open Enrollment begins October 15, 2017 and ends December 7, 2017 for enrollment in 2018 plans.
During Medicare Open Enrollment, beneficiaries can make changes to their existing plans or switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan. The Louisiana Department of Insurance has created a step-by-step guide for Medicare beneficiaries. Also, our Medicare
Advantage Plans vs Medicare Supplement Policies Guide can help you make the right decision about your Medicare options.
Our Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) staff can help you choose the best plan for your budget. SHIIP counselors provide free and unbiased guidance to those in need around the state. Also, join us on Facebook for Medicare updates and tips. In our Facebook live series Leave it to Vicki, Louisiana SHIIP Director Vicki Dufrene provides Medicare beneficiaries and their families with important information. Like us on Facebook to watch these videos and get more Medicare updates.
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Protect Your Personal Information
Big data is big business. But it can also lead to bigger headaches when large-scale breaches expose personal information. Large companies including insurers and credit bureaus have been the victims of cyber thieves who accessed private customer information. Most recently, the Equifax breach could affect 143 million Americans.
Identity theft occurs when a person uses your personal information to commit fraud or unlawful activity. Using your social security number or date of birth, someone may open new credit card or bank account in your name, and even take out a loan using your personal information. Affected consumers can help protect themselves with identity theft insurance—or by using safeguards provided by the impacted company. The Louisiana Department of Insurance offers these consumer protection tips:
- Avoid carrying your Social Security number and driver’s license number together in your wallet.
- Shred pre-approved credit card offers and bills before disposing of them.
- Avoid putting outgoing mail in your home mailbox and use a U.S. Post service mailbox.
- Be careful of where you use credit cards online. Make sure the website is legitimate.
- Check your credit report on a regular basis. If you see unusual activity, you can investigate promptly by contacting the three credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Check to see if your current homeowners policy insurer includes identity theft insurance as part of your coverage. If not, you may be able to add identity theft insurance to your policy for a small fee or purchase a stand-alone policy from another insurer.
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Consumer Alert: Flood-Damaged Vehicles
Consumers in the market for a new vehicle can save time and money by avoiding flood-damaged vehicles. Here are a few tips:
- Buyers Beware. While most states require vehicle titles to indicate flood damage, some wholesalers may intentionally transfer titles to avoid having the damage noted and diminish the value of the car.
- Looks can be deceiving. While the car may look perfectly fine on the surface, there could be hidden defects that are not immediately noticeable. Flood damage can compromise the car’s computer and safety mechanisms, which pose significant safety hazards to the new owner.
- Do your own inspection. Take time to inspect the car yourself. Check the engine for high water marks, which is a clear indication that the car has been flooded. Look for rust or corrosion on wires and other components under the hood. You should also be suspicious if the carpet smells damp and of mildew.
- Consider where you buy. Flooded vehicles often times end up at car auctions. Make sure to shop at a reputable dealership.
- Ask questions. Before buying the car, ask the dealer to obtain a report with a detailed history of the car. You should also consider taking the car to a qualified mechanic to inspect the vehicle thoroughly.
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