2017 Open Enrollment Reminders
Louisiana families hoping to apply for health insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace can begin signing up now. The enrollment period will run through January 31, 2017. During this time period, you can review available plans and determine which works best for you. The Louisiana Department of Insurance is offering some guidance to help you better understand the open enrollment process.
- Review your plan’s network. Make sure your doctor and other health care providers are included in your plan. Going out-of-network may cost you more money.
- A subsidy may help pay your premium. If you meet certain income requirements you may be eligible for a tax credit. A subsidy is usually available for families with incomes between 100 percent and 400 percent of the poverty level.
- Penalties for not having
health insurance. Remember you have to choose a plan by January 31, 2017. The penalty for not having health insurance is 2.5 percent of your yearly household income or a fee for each person in your household without health insurance.
Health coverage will begin January 1 for individuals who choose a plan by December 15, 2016. A licensed health insurance agent can help you explore your choices and also help you determine if you’re eligible to receive financial assistance paying your premium. The Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) maintains a searchable
database of licensed insurance agents.
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Know Your Medicare Options
Medicare Open Enrollment ends December 7. When trying to decide on a plan keep an eye on the level of coverage and the cost of the premiums and deductibles. You want to choose a plan that fits your household budget. The Louisiana Department of Insurance’s Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) has made it easy for you to compare plans. The 2017 Medicare Advantage Plans are available by parish. Simply click on the parish you live in, to see a list of plans available and benefits. Senior health insurance counselors are available to help you. Find help near you by clicking here or calling 1-800-259-5300.
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Holiday Travel Tips
Drivers will soon hit the road for the Thanksgiving holiday. Before you map out your destination, review your auto insurance policy. If you’re involved in an accident, here are a few things to remember:
- Report the accident to the police.
- Write down the other driver’s name, address, phone number, make, model, and license plate number.
- Collect contact information of witnesses.
- If possible, take photos of the accident scene.
- Get a copy of the accident report.
- Contact your insurance agent or company
If another driver is responsible for the accident, their insurance company should cover your rental car costs. If you file a claim with your own insurance company, the cost of the rental car will only be covered if you paid a premium to include rental reimbursement coverage in your policy.
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