Saturday, 5 November 2016

9 Solid High Risk Homeowners Insurance Companies

mine insurance workNovember 05, 20169 Solid High Risk Homeowners Insurance Companies No comments

9 Solid High Risk Homeowners Insurance Companies

Updated on April 27, 2016

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Earthquakes,typhoons, hurricanes, floods and fire are disasters that occur unexpectedly. High risk homeowners insurance provides financial respite from the effects of these incidents.There are numerous companies that specialize in high risk homeowners insurance. The following are some of the major insurance providers for this insurance policy.

1. US Insurance

US Insurance is a Texas-based insurance provider that specializes in high risk homeowner’s insurance covers. It allows its clients to search for competitive rates with regards to high risk insurance covers. The other benefit of taking an insurance cover with this company is its expeditious process. It instantly connects customers to its numerous agents after filling an application form.

1. US Insurance

2. Liberty Mutual

Liberty Mutual is another American insurer that provides insurance for high-risk homeowners. What is strikingly advantageous about the company is its variety of insurance packages. These packages include identity fraud and flood insurance. It also boasts of a quality account management system that ensures efficient delivery of insurance coverage services.

3. Amica

Amica has earned a lot of recognition for the professionalism and courtesy involved in its services. It has a support service center that provides comprehensive information on issues concerning high risk homeowners insurance. They also offer safety discounts that provide financial relief to its clients.

4. Country Financial Insurance company

Just like most providers of home insurance, Country Financial boasts of several homeowner insurance packages. It is also financially solid; this scenario guarantees its ability to cover claims sufficiently. The insurer comprises insurance experts who provide valuable guidance to clients on high risk homeowners insurance.

5. State Farm Insurance

The State Farm Insurance Company rolled out its operations six decades ago. It deals in a wide range of homeowner insurance covers. It is quite beneficial since it enables owners of high risk homes to conduct online insurance quotes on their high risk homes.

6. Progressive Insurance

With Progressive Insurance Company, owners of high risk homes can get discounts on their policies. This is the icing on the cake considering that it charges low premiums. Also, the insurer tailors its insurance policies to match the needs of its clients. This makes it possible for homeowners to insure themselves from specific disasters like typhoon or floods.

7. American Family Insurance

The advantage of American Family Insurance is its efforts towards sparing clients from unpleasant surprises. It contains experts who provide precise information to high risk homeowners on its numerous policies.

8. Erie Insurance

This insurance firm enables high risk homeowners to compare insurance quotes of their homes. Erie insurance also possesses a competent account management system. Its numerous research options allow homeowners to conduct extensive research on high risk homeowners’ insurance packages.

9. Allstate Insurance Company

The Allstate Insurance Company has a wide net of agents that help homeowners to decide on the right coverage. Their agents also offer valuable advice on the regulations that govern the insurance sector in all the states. This is undoubtedly one of its greatest strengths. Moreover, it contains numerous high risk homeowners’ insurance policies that are individualized.

Steps to Get Your Long Term Disability Approved

mine insurance workNovember 05, 2016Steps to Get Your Long Term Disability Approved No comments

Steps to Get Your Long Term Disability Approved

Updated on February 9, 2011

When my doctor told me I couldn’t return to work, I was glad I had made the decision a few years earlier to purchase long term disability (LTD) insurance through my employer. I thought I was set – piece of cake. It wasn’t as easy as I thought it was going to be, however.

First of all, you have to realize that your LTD carrier is in business to make money. What they’d really like to do is to collect premiums and never pay out benefits. Of course, they wouldn’t be able to do this long and stay in business. For one thing, they’d be faced with a gazillion lawsuits. So they do pay, but most are very selective about which customers receive disability benefits.

They want proof. They won’t just take your word about your disability. You can’t just say, “I can’t work anymore. I hurt.” This won’t cut it. They want x-rays, MRIs, CT scans, blood tests – stuff like that. Unfortunately, not every disabling condition can be proven with such tests. For example, some back ailments, joint pain, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain can’t be identified with traditional tests. Some emotional and mental conditions fall into the same category. This is where your doctors come into play.

Let’s use fibromyalgia as an example. No matter how much pain you’re in, this condition cannot be proven with a blood test or x-ray. Most general practitioners actually know little about it, so you need to be seeing a rheumatologist who specializes in fibromyalgia. His word and findings will carry a lot more weight with the insurance company than will those from a GP. If your disability is caused by something like panic disorder or clinical depression, you need to be seeing someone who specializes in that. Get the picture?

See your doctor on a regular basis. Make sure he documents everything. If he tells you that your MRI shows extensive nerve damage, have him write it down. The LTD folks aren’t going to read your MRI, and according to them, if it’s not written down, it didn’t happen. Every time you make a visit to a doctor’s office, emergency room, chiropractor, physical therapists, acupuncturist, clinic, psychologist, psychiatrist, counselor, or massage therapist, ask for a copy of any notes and tests. Take them home with you and make yourself another copy. Keep one set of everything in a large envelope and the other copy somewhere else. Keep one of the sets of copies next to your phone so that you’ll have the information readily accessible when your LTD representative calls with questions.

Fax everything to your long term disability company, AND send a set of copies via registered mail. They’ll request copies from your doctor, but from my experience, some doctors’ offices are slow about sending these. Also, sometimes the LTD carrier will say they were never sent, even though your doctor assures you that they were.

If your doctor is supportive of your claim, he’ll most likely be willing to write a narrative for your long term disability company and for Social Security. Most physicians charge extra for this, but it’s worth the price.

Keep a record of all the drugs you take and how much you spend on them every month. These include prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications. Also, be sure to document any adverse side effects from meds. You might take a drug that relieves your pain but makes you so dizzy that you have to lie down. Or maybe it “knocks you out.” Your goal is to show the insurance carrier why you can’t work.

Keep a journal of your illness, and be specific. “On March 2, my back hurt so bad that I had to take 2 pain pills (specify the drug) and stay in bed for 12 hours.”

When you fill out forms for your long term disability insurance company, be honest. Don’t exaggerate your illness or condition. Don’t say that you’re in excruciating pain 24/7 – they won’t believe you. Also, be specific. Saying “I can no longer lift a gallon of milk, so I have to buy milk in quarts now” is better than saying, “I can’t lift much.” Explain how your disability has changed your daily routine: “We had to hire someone to add handicap rails in our bathroom, living room, bedroom…”

Keep in mind that LTD insurance companies differ greatly, and even within the same company, representatives differ. The first guy I dealt with was a real butthead. He made it perfectly clear that they had no intention of approving my long term disability claim. He softened up a bit after he discovered that I was not going to be intimidated. He got me approved, but he was slow about following through. He soon disappeared. Maybe he was fired for being so nasty or so slow? Anyway, the next representative was nice, helpful, and very professional. She got my checks started quickly.

Once you’re approved for SSDI, you’ll get a very large check from the government that includes all your months of back pay. You have to inform your LTD carrier of this. In most cases, you can’t get LTD and SSDI in full. For example, if you have a group LTD policy through your employer, your disability benefit is based on a percentage of your normal salary. Let’s say that amount is $2,500 a month. You’ll get that amount monthly until your SSDI is approved. If your SSDI monthly amount is $2,000, your LTD payments will be reduced to $500 per month.

Here’s what often happens: When you get that first SSDI check that includes months of back payments, the amount could be as much as $35,000-$45,000 or more – depending on how long it took you to get approved. Don’t get excited – you have to pay that back to your LTD company. That’s included in the agreement with most long term disability insurance companies. A lot of times, the LTD company will try to settle with you. They’ll let you keep all that money if you agree to release them from future liability and payments. If you keep the cash, you won’t receive any more payments from your long term disability claim. I can’t advise you on this. You’ll have to carefully weigh the choice for yourself.

If you have a legitimate disability claim, be persistent and proactive. Don’t give up. If all else fails, hire an attorney who specializes in disability claims. An experience disability lawyer will know all the ins and outs of dealing with LTD companies, and you won’t have to pay him unless you win. True, he’ll get a chunk of your payment, but that’s a lot better than receiving nothing at all. Search online for the best disability attorneys - a not-so-good disability lawyer generally charges the same amount as a great disabilty attorney, so why not use one of the best?

I strongly advise anyone who’s employed or self employed to purchase long term disability health insurance. The premiums are modest, and if you pay them yourself, the benefits you receive are tax free. Unless a good policy is offered through your employer, I strongly suggest doing some comparison shopping. A good place to start is by getting quotes online.

Read more about long term disability and Social Security by clicking the article links below.

Only Having Liability Insurance on Your Car

Updated on April 27, 2016

My beloved car. I carry only liability insurance on it, but I have taken measures to ensure I can fix it if need be. | Source

I Used To Have Full Coverage Insurance

I didn’t always only have liability insurance on my car. I once had full coverage.

It all began when I started reading Dave Ramsey’s book Financial Peace. He made a point about how so many people who struggle financially often have two new (or newer) cars sitting in their driveways.

People often squeak by, with no savings and have credit card debt. Many of these same people also have new cars with auto loans. If you have any kind of a loan on a car, full coverage insurance is generally compulsory.

Then I was reading another book about How To Survive Without a Salary. The author makes a point about the ridiculousness of having full coverage on a car that isn’t worth much.

I began thinking about the value of my manual two-door hatchback. I was paying full comprehensive and collision insurance and I had long ago finished making payments.

My husband's truck. We also only have liability insurance on it - it's nearly 20 years old. I LOVE how it was built to last. | Source

What Will Your Next Car Be?

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New Cars Require Full Coverage Insurance

I bought my car new. Usually in my tendency to save money and be green, purchasing a new car wasn’t something I considered lightly. But, I had had a small Volkswagen car that had been in five accidents (they weren’t my fault). I traded that in for a Subaru that later leaked oil and I had to replace 5 rear-wheel bearings. Those repairs were not cheap.

I finally decided to get a new car that I knew hadn’t been in an accident and was under warranty for repairs. I got a small, gas-efficient stripped-down Focus. I love my car.

Because I was making payments on it, I carried full coverage insurance. The value of the car far exceeded any cash that I had lying around.

When you’re making payments, lenders require that you have full coverage. In the event of an accident, fire, or theft, the insurance companies will still be able to collect on any amount you still owe. The full coverage insurance covers repair costs for your car and will also give you a check for your car’s value should you total it.

But, what happens when you finish all those payments?

I kept full coverage for awhile. In fact, I kept it on until my car’s value depreciated to about $5000. That was in late 2010.

After that, I called my auto insurance company and canceled my comprehensive and collision insurance.

Why would I do that when the insurance company would pay to repair my car if it was in an accident?

Why I Canceled My Full Coverage

I had two reasons. First, I wanted a lower insurance premium. Canceling my full coverage saved me $600 a year.

Second, I now could afford car repairs. I was now willing to repair my car up to the cost of its value and had saved the cash to do so.

Thus, if the condenser for the air conditioning went out, I could fix that. If the motor stopped running, I could afford to repair it. However, if repairs exceeded the value of the car, I knew it would be time to get another car.

The thing is, I may get a new car again in the future. I am eyeing the electric cars on the market because you can get tax rebates for such purchases.

Our "spare" car. This one is a great vehicle, but it mostly sits. We don't have it licensed or insured, but if we needed to fix one of the other cars, we could easily add it on to our insurance policy. | Source

New Car and Drawbacks

But the drawbacks of having a new car are serious. For most of us, buying a new car entails car payments. You pay interest on those car payments.

Thus, a car costing $20,000 will cost you $27,000 after paying it off for 5 years at an interest rate of 7%. 20,000 x (.07/12) x 60 = 7,000. That’s a lot of extra money with which you could do a lot of things: an extra vacation, a remodel on the house, or even a down payment for a new car.

Plus, there’s the fact that you’ll have to pay for full coverage insurance throughout the life of the loan. An extra $60/month for 5 years (which is what I had on my Volkswagen when I had it) = $3600. That’s a lot of money in insurance costs. Now, you have an extra $7000 you’re paying in interest, plus the cost of full coverage at $3600. That’s $13,600 worth of extra costs over 5 years for the car!

You also have to think about how a car depreciates. As soon as you drive it off the lot, chances are, you now owe more than it’s worth. This happened to me. After about the third time someone hit my Volkswagen, I started thinking that I needed another car. I was driving a dent magnet. Unfortunately, the value of the car was less than what I owed. I had to wait another year and a half (and two more accidents) before I could finally trade it in and come out ahead.

I’ve all but convinced myself always to buy a car where I’ll need liability insurance only. Basically, liability insurance will cover the cost of repairs for the other person’s car if I’m in an accident and it’s my fault.

My policy may even help to cover medical costs, but it’s up to the individual policyholder. Insurance companies and policies are different - it's always a good idea to check with your insurance provider about the specifics of your situation.

Having a car with liability insurance means that I have a cheaper car in the first place and I don’t have to pay nearly as much in insurance costs.

I may have to fork over money for repair costs. That part is a gamble. But, chances are good that I won’t have to pay repair costs or that they won’t be that costly.

When Should You Cancel Full Coverage Insurance?

It’s definitely up to you as an individual to determine whether to carry liability insurance only on your car. Would you be comfortable footing the bill for the repair costs? Would you rather pay your insurance company to take care of that for you?

A good guideline is to determine the value of your car. I stopped carrying full coverage when its value was at $5000 because I am comfortable paying for repairs up to that value. It’s not worth the extra $600/year for me.

It also helps that my husband is great with cars – he rebuilds them. Thus, if I get into an accident, I have his truck as a backup, as well as a third car that he’s working on. It stays parked, but if I had to, I could put plates on that and add liability insurance easily.

No, it’s not as glamorous to drive around an older car. We’re programmed to like new and innovative things in our society. I’m not saying whether that’s good or bad, but if you’re a money-saver like I am, you don’t always win the “ooohs” and “aaahs” with your friends and family when you’re driving an unassuming older car.

You have to think about what’s more important to you: to be out of debt and save more money or to drive a sleek new car. Either way you pay, just in a different way.

Do You Only Have Liability Insurance On Your Car?

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Lower Your Insurance Premiums

Indeed, it is up to you, the individual, to determine whether you will carry full coverage or liability coverage.

Weigh the cost of the premiums against the value of your car. If a car is worth $3000 and your comprehensive and collision insurance is about $200/year, you've paid 1/2 the value of your car in insurance premiums in one year. But, if you total it, the insurance company will give you a check for the value of the car at the time (which is often lower than you would think), minus the deductible. That $3000 car might be worth $1500 if you totaled it, plus the deductible. That could amount to a total of $2000.

To save on premiums, you can also raise the cost of your deductible. By going from $500 to $1000, your rates have the potential to drop dramatically. Just be sure you can handle the amount of the deductible should you ever need to pay it.

Something else to consider is the fact that if you only have liability insurance, you must purchase the extra insurance if you ever rent a car. Your insurance will not cover you - generally - if you are in a rental car. Each policy is different, however. Check with your insurer to be sure.

Final Thoughts

When I bought my Focus, I intentionally looked for a stripped-down version. They're much easier to work on that way. They're also everywhere, so it's easy to find parts for them.

It's also nice if you have someone who's good at working on cars in the family. My husband is my insurance policy. All jokes aside, we can find parts we need and my husband can install them and/or tweak them.

If you have the space, buy a very cheap alternative car. My sister has two used older cars. When one breaks down, she can still use the other one. That way, she won't have to depend on the insurance company to come through for repairs and deductibles.

I admit it's great to have a sleek new car with all the bells and whistles. However, it's more important to me to save up for a trip to Spain or a ski trip to Patagonia than it is to have a new car.

How to Fix Fender-Bender Damage & Save Car Insurance Claims?

mine insurance workNovember 05, 2016How to Fix Fender-Bender Damage & Save Car Insurance Claims? No comments

How to Fix Fender-Bender Damage & Save Car Insurance Claims?

Updated on April 25, 2016

Nobody likes to have an auto accident, not even a minor fender-bender. It is possible, however, to come out of a fender-bender with hundreds of dollars that you can save towards the purchase of your next car.

First let’s clarify what this article is not about.

We hope you weren’t seriously injured. If you had minor injuries, we hope that either your insurance or the at-fault party’s took care of that.
We’re not talking about lawsuits. There may be a place for legal action, but it is not discussed here.
We’re presuming that your car is either still drivable or can be repaired to safe, drivable condition.

By the way, some insurers only pay for repairs actually performed. That is, they pay the shop, not you, and you can’t pocket any difference. I won’t say they’re being unfair, but if your company is like that, don’t waste your time reading this article. If it’s a big deal to you, you might shop for another insurance company—I would.

Your claims adjuster

Assessing the damage

Your insurance company is going to assess the damage. They do that in one of three ways, depending on the company. Sometimes they have you bring your car (if still safely drivable) to a regional center where they have their own claims adjuster write up a damage estimate. If your car is not drivable, they may have their field adjuster come to the car. Sometimes they hire an independent claims adjuster to come to your car. Sometimes they ask you to get two or three written repair estimates to submit to them.

There can be a lot of variation in repair quotes. The adjuster has no motivation to be generous with you. Depending on how closely allied he is to the insurer, he may actually have incentive to be somewhat stingy. It is also possible for him to miss things, especially if he doesn’t have a lot of experience.

The first thing you need to do is get your insurance company to accept a fairly high repair estimate. If at all possible, get a couple of estimates of your own even before seeing the claims adjuster. If it’s a late-model car, take it back to the dealer. Otherwise, take your car to a couple of reputable collision centers or national chains. Tell them you are getting an estimate for an insurance claim, that you want it done right, that you don’t want them to miss anything. Your shop should understand from this that you are looking for an estimate on the high side of what is reasonable and customary. Don’t let them get the impression that you are comparison-shopping for the lowest bid—quite the opposite! There should be no discussion of deductibles.

When you have the claims adjuster from the insurance company look at the vehicle, let him know that you have a couple of quotes already. He won’t offer you a settlement without knowing what those are. But tell him that you want to see what he comes up with before showing him what your own shop came up with. If he’s higher, take it. If he’s lower, you’ve got leverage with your estimates. Maybe he missed something—that’s common. A repair shop hoping to do your work isn’t going to miss as much of that because it’s bad for business.

This car went through a hedge and was probably declared a total loss. Used parts and no paint would get this back on the road cheap and ugly--with the rest of the insurance money in hand. | Source

What if they say it’s totaled?

If the estimate to repair the damage is more than about ¾ of what they figure the car would be worth in undamaged condition, the insurance company will want to pay you only what the car is worth. They determine value based on the lowest trade-in value of that make, model and year of car—regardless of restoration or rusty relic. At that point, you have a second determination to make: Is the car worth more to you than it is to them? This goes back to the third assumption in the introduction: that your car is either still drivable or can be repaired to safe, drivable condition.

If the car is customized, unusual or rare, you might be able to make a case for valuing the car above “the book value.” I have a 1981 Toyota that is registered as a coupe. It was actually one of just 900 convertibles sold new in showrooms that year. It took quite a bit of hard-to-get documentation before the insurance adjuster doubled the value. They still said it was totaled. I didn’t see it that way, of course, and restored it, but they gave me twice as much money to work with as they initially offered.

The door skin is merely dented--fixing it is optional. The mirror is simply folded out of the way. | Source

Pocket the cash & drive it as-is

So far we’ve established that your car is damaged, but repairable, and that the insurance has paid you what it will cost to repair it. There is probably bent sheet metal that will require a body shop for repairs. Often, there is no mechanical damage—like a punctured radiator or bent wheel rim—that renders the car either undrivable or unsafe. In this case, you might want to ask yourself, “Do I actually need to have this car repaired?” If the car is several years old, you really don’t need to have it repaired to like-new condition.

If the driver’s door or hood won’t open, you probably need to get it fixed, at least enough so that it will operate. On the other hand, the whole side could have been side-swiped and cost well over $1,000, but still have working doors, windows and mechanical parts. Can you live with it ugly like that? If so, pocket the insurance money and save it for your next car. A few examples will illustrate:

This car is completely drivable, although the passenger door won't open. It just needs a mirror and windshield to be a "daily driver". | Source

Example 1: Oldsmobile

My daughter’s Oldsmobile bumped the car in front of hers. The hood worked fine, and for $2.50, we replaced a bulb with a broken filament. She pocketed slightly more than $1,000 on that one. A year later she was sideswiped by a pickup truck. She replaced the mirror and side marker light and lived with the scraped-up body panels that worked just fine. Again, she pocketed just over $1,000. Next, the car was struck broadside by an SUV. The insurance company said it was totaled and gave her $2,300. Doors on the passenger side wouldn’t open, but the car was still completely drivable. And she did drive it for another couple of months before deciding it was time to upgrade. All totaled (pun intended), that old car helped her save—or should I say earn—$4,300 towards her next car.

Example 2: Passat

One time I was run off the road by a city vehicle whose driver didn’t see me. Since there was a curb, there was significant damage to the undercarriage—the VW dealer estimated $3,500, and the city paid. The damage did not affect the alignment or anything mechanical, although it certainly looked nasty if you put it on a lift and looked at it from the underside. Since I don’t expect most people to look at my car from that angle, I didn’t have it repaired.

Repair it on a tight budget; pocket the rest

OK, but suppose that you do have mechanical damage, broken glass, or doors or hood that won’t open. You’re going to have to repair the car in order to keep driving it. But there are three ways you can economize here, individually or in combination—and this is not at all the way it was estimated to begin with. That means that whatever insurance money you don’t spend is what you get to keep. This is more palatable for a car that is several years old than for last year’s sports coupe!

The car is about 25 years old. The owner decided a used door from another car was fine and he isn't picky about paint color. It gets him around town just fine in this condition. | Source

Partial repairs

The suspension and drivetrain need to function. Safety items like windshield, headlights, taillights and turn indicators have to operate. You need to be able to get into and out of the car and open the engine compartment. If you stop there, you will have what is called a daily driveror a commuter car—something to put the miles on when you’re by yourself and don’t really care what the sheet metal looks like. Depending on who or what you typically transport, you may need more than one door operable and the trunk lid as well. You might be able to get by with partial repairs.

Shops with low overhead costs

You got your repair estimates from quality repair shops. If you need the car to last another ten years, then that’s probably where you should get it repaired. But if it’s already five years old and you only need it to last another three years or so, you can cut quality and save 50-75% of the repair cost.

Ask a trusted friend who is in the automotive business—any part of it. He knows people, or he knows others who know people. What you’re looking for is some independent guy who has no advertizing but word of mouth. He works in conditions with low overhead expense, possibly just one unit in a warehouse. He won’t accept any form of payment except cash—and doesn’t issue receipts. But he does paint and body work of good (or at least acceptable) quality, does it cheaply and is trusted and respected by someone you trust and respect.

Buy used parts

A third way to save on collision repairs is to get used parts from a salvage yard or on eBay. If you’re working with a nationwide repair chain, they probably won’t like the idea, unless it’s just for a headlight or taillight assembly. If you go with a budget shop as described above, he’ll love the idea, but don’t be surprised if he wants you to do the legwork to locate the parts. At salvage yards, you don’t necessarily have to get too greasy, but you will get dirty. Buying from eBay will cost a bit more, and the seller will already have cleaned up the part some for you. Due to the shipping, eBay works best with small but expensive items like headlight and taillight assemblies.

When my 30-year-old convertible was damaged, I needed three parts that are no longer manufactured. A quick internet search showed me which local junk yards had cars that were similar enough to have the same part. The next step was for me to drive out there and see for myself whether the needed parts were available and usable. The junk car could have been damaged on that corner or someone could have beaten me to removing those parts. When I found the parts I needed, I paid someone to remove them for me—they were big and greasy—so I could deliver them to the shop that would install them.

Where you can save a ton of money this way is on headlight and taillight assemblies, bumpers, whole doors, hoods, deck lids and glass. These are relatively easy to remove and not too dirty—not compared to a frame member or axle. I was shocked at how cheap it would be for them to install a used windshield for me right there and give me a one-year warranty. (If it’s going to leak or break due to faulty workmanship, it certainly won’t take that long to happen.)

Will Health Insurance Pay for Cosmetic Surgery?

mine insurance workNovember 05, 2016Will Health Insurance Pay for Cosmetic Surgery? No comments

Will Health Insurance Pay for Cosmetic Surgery?

Updated on August 5, 2016

Check to See if the Surgery or Procedure You Want Is Covered

Source

How to Get Insurance to Pay for Cosmetic Procedures

We usually think of cosmetic surgery as elective (and expensive) procedures that aren't covered by insurance, such as a facelift to make us look younger.

But some surgeries that improve us cosmetically are actually medically justified. The fact that the surgery makes you look better, or feel better about your looks, is secondary to the health benefits it can offer.

While facelifts are generally elective and not covered (unless they're part of a restorative procedure, such as reconstructing your face after surgery or an accident), you might be surprised at some procedures covered by your insurance.

Before you schedule anything, though, check your policy to see what coverage is offered for procedures such as those listed below, and make certain you have the proper referrals (if needed).

In almost all cases, you will likely have to pay for options that are not related to those procedures covered by insurance (which includes most things considered purely cosmetic or elective). But because you are having related surgery, but your cost may be slightly less due to the portion of the surgery covered by insurance. You will also have the benefit of only one recovery period, rather than two or more, from having the surgeries done separately.

Example of Patient Approved for Upper Eyelid Surgery

The excess skin in the upper eyelid inhibits this patient's range of vision. The patient also had elective surgery for fat pads and excess skin below the eyes. | Source

Health Insurance Coverage for Eye Lifts (Blepharoplasty)

Sagging upper eyelids are typically covered by many insurance firms. Even though your primary desire for getting the surgery might be your looks, insurance companies often cover this procedure because droopy eyelids impair your field of vision.

The surgeon will take pictures and run simple tests (involving closing your eyes and slowly opening them) and submit the findings to your insurance firm. If the insurance firm agrees you have impaired vision (usually meaning that your eyelid covers a certain portion of your pupil when you open your eyes normally), this may be covered in your policy.

If your upper eyelids have excess tissue or pads of fat you might be a good candidates for this procedure (which, surprisingly, is generally outpatient and is not too difficult to go through). Bags and excess skin under your lower lids, as ugly as they are, probably aren't covered.

However, you can pay the additional fee to get this procedure done at the same time. You will pay for the extra time in the operating room as well as the additional time under an anesthetic, and the cost of the surgery on the lower lids.

A tip: Look for an oculoplasty surgeon rather than just a cosmetic surgeon. These specialists are trained in protecting and restoring the muscular integrity of your eye, rather than focusing on pulling and tightening the skin. In many cases, you will get a more natural result through their work than with a surgeon not similarly trained.

Recovery includes a few days of sleeping with your head elevated, putting ice packs on your eyes for a few days, and watching the bruises fade (usually within 2-4 weeks).

Patient's Foot Before Bunion Surgery

This patient's bunion protrudes and also shows sign of inflammation. | Source

Is a Bunionectomy Covered by Insurance?

Many people want to get rid of unsightly bunions - women want to have prettier feet, and they long to wear cute shoes. Men like the streamlined look they'll get without a bunion sticking out on the side of their shoe.

Insurance companies don't care how you look or what shoes you want to wear, but they do have coverage to help get rid of the pain bunions cause. Large bunions are incredibly painful, and they hamper your daily life (even your safety, if your gait is altered to avoid the pain of your shoes rubbing against the bunions).

There are several types of bunion procedures, which can vary from a simply shaving of the protruding bone or growth to cutting the bone and rotating the angel of it (to move the big toe further away from your other toes). You may also need for the muscle between your first two toes to be cut slightly, if it doesn't allow your toes to spread apart sufficiently.

Insurance companies will evaluate the physicians report (which may include Xrays) and may also contact you with questions (hint - they want to know if your feet hurt, or whether your motivation is to wear those cute shoes).

As with many other cosmetic surgeries, this is day surgery and you go home a few hours afterward. You will be on crutches for a while, and then in a 'bunion booty,' and then in comfy shoes for several weeks. But after you recover, the pain will be gone or greatly reduced, and usually, you can indeed wear those cute shoes.

Rhinoplasty Splint to Aid Healing

Source

Can Health Insurance Pay for a Nose Job (Rhinoplasty)?

No, you can't get surgery just to have a prettier nose - but you can get insurance coverage for surgery to correct a deviated septum, and at the same time (for an additional fee) get an improved shape for your schnoz.

A deviated septum is a flaw (almost like a detour) in the cartilage and bone between your two nostrils. It closes down the air flow and keeps you from breathing fully. Because of that (and other factors, such as susceptibility to sinus problems), insurance companies pay for this surgery. Getting your nose reshaped, though, is generally not covered.

If you're considering this surgery, look for a surgeon skilled in the corrective procedure as well as the cosmetic portion if at all possible (otherwise, two surgeons will perform the surgery, which adds to the expense).

Recovery can be a few weeks, and usually involves having your nostrils packed for a few days (which can be uncomfortable), meaning you will breath through your mouth for that period of time.

Insurance Payments for Weight Loss Through Gastric Bypass or Banding (Bariatric Surgery)

One of the most extreme treatments for obesity is gastric bypass (or a similar procedure). This surgery, sometimes called stomach bypass, can be quite dangerous, and you should examine all other options, including changes to your diet.

If specialists and your insurance firm all agree this type of surgery is needed, and that you are a good candidate for it, the procedure may be covered by your policy.

There are several types of procedures that can be done; some are more invasive than others, and the risks can vary with the type of procedure, your age, your general health, the amount of extra weight you carry and other factors. All of these factors also affect the recovery time and amount of time you may spend in a facility.

Varicose Veins Are Painful and Hamper Blood Circulation

Source

Will My Health Policy Pay for Varicose Vein Surgery?

Varicose veins are unsightly, but because they also cause pain and affect circulation, they can be covered by insurance. These veins that have become inflamed, enlarged and swollen with excess blood and fluid.

In some cases, people may not have as pronounced of symptoms as those in whom the veins are visibly engorged. If you have heaviness or tiredness in your legs, dark blue veins or other symptoms, ask your doctor whether you might have this condition.

Treatment (including surgery) for veins that truly need medical attention will likely be covered by your insurance. As with many procedures, you will probably need a referral to a specialist.

Treatments can vary for this condition, which means recovery varies as well. Surgery for this condition will help address the appearance of the veins (but may leave scars), but will also help address the pain and other complications you might be experiencing.

Examples of Melanoma (On Left) vs. Normal Moles

Any abnormal mole or growth should be examined immediately | Source

Mole Removal Through Health Insurance

Although this is usually a minor procedure, it is often medically needed if a mole appears to be precancerous or can otherwise cause health complications.

The procedure will involved cutting or burning off the mole, and it may or may not require a small stitch or two. It is often done in the doctor's office and can sometimes require little more than a local anesthetic.

Because moles can detract from your appearance, you may personally feel it is a cosmetic choice, but insurance coverage will be based on whether the mole puts your health at risk.

If the tissue that's been removed looks suspicious, make certain a biopsy is performed to determine if there are cancerous cells.

Unless the mole is cancerous, recovery can be uncomplicated and will generally not require further treatment (unless your physician wants to examine your skin at a later date for additional growths). Cancerous moles require additional treatment, of course, and in either case, you should monitor your exposure to the sun and use effective sunscreen at all times.

What about you?

Have you considered getting cosmetic surgery or procedures?

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Insurance Coverage for Breast Reduction or for Reconstructive Surgery After Mastectomy

Breast Reductions: Women whose breasts are abnormally large (to the point of inhibiting the quality of life or causing extreme pain and muscle strain) can often have breast reduction done through their insurance plan. There are risks to this surgery (as with any surgery), but there may be positive health trade-offs in the long term.

Breast Reconstruction: Persons who have had mastectomies are generally eligible for reconstructive surgery to restore the appearance and shape of the breast(s). This can include implants, cosmetic surgery to the skin and nipple, and applying a tattooed nipple.

While this is not the type of surgery one thinks of in terms of cosmetics, it indeed addresses the emotional look and physical appearance of those who need it. It is also comforting to know that insurance companies generally recognize this is a medically needed procedure.

Cosmetic Surgery Payment Options (Flex Accounts)

Some expenses for elective procedures might qualify for payment through Flex Health Accounts. Face lifts no longer qualify for this type of pretax savings plan, but several other elective procedures can be paid from your Flex Account. If you are considering any of the above procedures, or procedures such as the ones listed below, check with your plan administrator to see if you can set aside pretax dollars to pay for your share:

Radial Keretotomy
Dental Implants
Co-pays for any procedure covered by insurance

Things to Ask Your Doctor About Surgery

Before you agree to surgery, find out all you need to know about the risks, possible complications, side effects of anesthetics, choices of anesthetics and other details to help you make your decision.

For insurance coverage, ask if the doctor takes assignment, which means they will accept payment directly from the insurance company rather than requiring you to pay in advance. If the surgery is not 100 percent covered (which will most likely be the case), find out the exact amount you will pay out of pocket. If the out-of-pocket expense is a large amount, ask about payment arrangements. There may be payment options or financing available through the clinic or surgery center you're using. Or, you may get a discount for paying in cash at the time of surgery.

Ask if you can speak to patients who have had the surgery. Most surgeons who do cosmetic work and procedures will have before and after photos available as well as a list of previous patients who have given permission for you to contact them.

Only Having Liability Insurance on Your Car

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Only Having Liability Insurance on Your Car

Updated on April 27, 2016

My beloved car. I carry only liability insurance on it, but I have taken measures to ensure I can fix it if need be. | Source

I Used To Have Full Coverage Insurance

I didn’t always only have liability insurance on my car. I once had full coverage.

Then I was reading another book about How To Survive Without a Salary. The author makes a point about the ridiculousness of having full coverage on a car that isn’t worth much.

I began thinking about the value of my manual two-door hatchback. I was paying full comprehensive and collision insurance and I had long ago finished making payments.

My husband's truck. We also only have liability insurance on it - it's nearly 20 years old. I LOVE how it was built to last. | Source

What Will Your Next Car Be?

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New Cars Require Full Coverage Insurance

I finally decided to get a new car that I knew hadn’t been in an accident and was under warranty for repairs. I got a small, gas-efficient stripped-down Focus. I love my car.

Because I was making payments on it, I carried full coverage insurance. The value of the car far exceeded any cash that I had lying around.

But, what happens when you finish all those payments?

I kept full coverage for awhile. In fact, I kept it on until my car’s value depreciated to about $5000. That was in late 2010.

After that, I called my auto insurance company and canceled my comprehensive and collision insurance.

Why would I do that when the insurance company would pay to repair my car if it was in an accident?

Why I Canceled My Full Coverage

I had two reasons. First, I wanted a lower insurance premium. Canceling my full coverage saved me $600 a year.

Second, I now could afford car repairs. I was now willing to repair my car up to the cost of its value and had saved the cash to do so.

The thing is, I may get a new car again in the future. I am eyeing the electric cars on the market because you can get tax rebates for such purchases.

New Car and Drawbacks

But the drawbacks of having a new car are serious. For most of us, buying a new car entails car payments. You pay interest on those car payments.

Having a car with liability insurance means that I have a cheaper car in the first place and I don’t have to pay nearly as much in insurance costs.

I may have to fork over money for repair costs. That part is a gamble. But, chances are good that I won’t have to pay repair costs or that they won’t be that costly.

When Should You Cancel Full Coverage Insurance?

You have to think about what’s more important to you: to be out of debt and save more money or to drive a sleek new car. Either way you pay, just in a different way.

Do You Only Have Liability Insurance On Your Car?

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Lower Your Insurance Premiums

Indeed, it is up to you, the individual, to determine whether you will carry full coverage or liability coverage.

Final Thoughts

When I bought my Focus, I intentionally looked for a stripped-down version. They're much easier to work on that way. They're also everywhere, so it's easy to find parts for them.

I admit it's great to have a sleek new car with all the bells and whistles. However, it's more important to me to save up for a trip to Spain or a ski trip to Patagonia than it is to have a new car.

About the Author

Cynthia is a freelance writer, photographer, artist and teacher. She loves studying language, arts and culture and sharing that knowledge with others.

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Saturday, 5 November 2016

9 Solid High Risk Homeowners Insurance Companies

Steps to Get Your Long Term Disability Approved

Read more about health and disability:

Only Having Liability Insurance on Your Car

I Used To Have Full Coverage Insurance

What Will Your Next Car Be?

New Cars Require Full Coverage Insurance

Why I Canceled My Full Coverage

New Car and Drawbacks

When Should You Cancel Full Coverage Insurance?

Do You Only Have Liability Insurance On Your Car?

Lower Your Insurance Premiums

Final Thoughts

How to Fix Fender-Bender Damage & Save Car Insurance Claims?

Your claims adjuster

Assessing the damage

What if they say it’s totaled?

Pocket the cash & drive it as-is

Example 1: Oldsmobile

Example 2: Passat

Repair it on a tight budget; pocket the rest

Partial repairs

Shops with low overhead costs

Buy used parts

Will Health Insurance Pay for Cosmetic Surgery?

Check to See if the Surgery or Procedure You Want Is Covered

How to Get Insurance to Pay for Cosmetic Procedures

Example of Patient Approved for Upper Eyelid Surgery

Health Insurance Coverage for Eye Lifts (Blepharoplasty)

Patient's Foot Before Bunion Surgery

Is a Bunionectomy Covered by Insurance?

Rhinoplasty Splint to Aid Healing

Can Health Insurance Pay for a Nose Job (Rhinoplasty)?

Insurance Payments for Weight Loss Through Gastric Bypass or Banding (Bariatric Surgery)

Varicose Veins Are Painful and Hamper Blood Circulation

Will My Health Policy Pay for Varicose Vein Surgery?

Examples of Melanoma (On Left) vs. Normal Moles

Mole Removal Through Health Insurance

What about you?

Have you considered getting cosmetic surgery or procedures?

Insurance Coverage for Breast Reduction or for Reconstructive Surgery After Mastectomy

Cosmetic Surgery Payment Options (Flex Accounts)

Things to Ask Your Doctor About Surgery

Only Having Liability Insurance on Your Car

I Used To Have Full Coverage Insurance

What Will Your Next Car Be?

New Cars Require Full Coverage Insurance

Why I Canceled My Full Coverage

New Car and Drawbacks

When Should You Cancel Full Coverage Insurance?

Do You Only Have Liability Insurance On Your Car?

Lower Your Insurance Premiums

Final Thoughts

About the Author

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