Input: What Life Insurance Term Should I Get?

Output: I love this question because people ask it every day . I am going to give you an answer that may surprise you , but that is the goal . I want you to think about the importance of this product to your family and business . Option # 1 would be `` lifetime term '' . This really would be a universal life product with a lifetime guarantee and no intended cash accumulation . It would essentially be `` permanent term '' . Buy this product , and you probably will not have to worry about life insurance again . Option # 2 would be 30-year term . This should be sufficient time to grow a business as well as help your children become independent . Remember that the rule of thumb used to be 20 years , but these days , many businesses and many families need coverage for longer than that . Option # 3 would be 10 - or 15 - year term . I would buy this only if I had a mortgage , business loan , divorce decree , or other obligation that lasted specifically 10 or 15 years . Then again , if you had a tight budget , you could buy 10-or 15 - year term and then buy a policy with a longer guarantee when you have the money . What do you think ? Does this system make sense ?


Input: What Insurance Do I Need For A Home Business?

Output: The provision of your homeowners policy that covers business pursuits is applicable only when your main office is away from your home and you take work home . For example , a notary public working from a professional office , also can meet with clients at his home office -LRB- on weekends , or after hours -RRB- . Other than that , your homeowners policy wo n't cover business related claims . It may in some instances provide coverage for `` sleep and fall '' accidents and business personal property , but frankly , you must have a stand alone business insurance . Insurance coverage for your business will depend on your operations and other specifics . If you are an importer of consumer goods you would need a product liability insurance , if you are a contractor - general liability insurance , and so on . Your business insurance agent should be able to suggest correct coverage .


Input: What Insurance Do I Need For A Home Business?

Output: It depends on the nature of the business . If you have a steady stream of customers coming to your business then you may at least want to consider increasing your liability limits . You may also want to add coverage for business pursuits to your homeowners policy . The best thing is to speak with your agent , let him know what you are doing and have him guide you .


Input: Is There A Drug Test For Health Insurance?

Output: NO . Unlike when you may apply for some levels of life insurance there is no physical exam or drug test that is administered in order to qualify for health insurance . With the latest round of implementation of the Affordable Care Act -LRB- ObamaCare -RRB- effective January 1 , 2014 , all major medical policies are guaranteed to be issued and can not apply any pre-existing condition exclusions or waiting periods . Your use of tobacco products can be asked about and the law does allow for a rate adjustment for tobacco usage . However , this does not extend to the use of drugs such a Marijuana for instance .


Input: Can We Cancel Health Insurance?

Output: Insurance is voluntary in that it can always be cancelled . The best time to cancel a policy is when it is up for renewal . At that time insurance companies know that most customers shop for better policies/better rates and it is expected that some policies will be cancelled . If you cancel at the right time there is no further premium payment obligation on the insured .


Input: Is Vandalism Covered By Car Insurance?

Output: Vandalism is covered by your car insurance policy under the `` comprehensive '' benefit . Assuming you have full coverage on your vehicle , you should have this benefit . It is possible a deductible will apply . The most common deductible ranges are $ 0 to $ 500 . More than likely , you have a lower amount which will reduce your out-of-pocket costs .


Input: Does A Will Override A Life Insurance Policy?

Output: In Canada , you can name a beneficiary of your life insurance policy in your will . If it was done after the last time you registered a change in a beneficiary with the insurance company then it would be honored . You can see the potential for legal challenges . That is why is recommended that you NOT name a beneficiary for your life insurance policy in your will . . If you have further questions , or feel that I could be of assistance , please do not hesitate to contact me . If you would like to work with a local life insurance broker , you could start with a Google search . For example , if you search for : life insurance broker Halifax or life insurance agent Halifax , my name , along with several others , will come up . You can use the same method to find a life insurance broker in your community .


Input: Does A Will Override A Life Insurance Policy?

Output: No - the life insurance proceeds will only be paid out to the person or entity that is designated as the beneficiary of the policy . In the event that you do not have a designated beneficiary or all designated beneficiaries have predeceased the insured , the proceeds would be paid out to the estate . When it 's paid out to the estate , it can be subjected to the probate process and the courts may end up determining how it 's distributed . It 's vital to make sure your primary and contingent beneficiaries are up to date . Many people will use a life insurance trust to control how they want the proceeds distributed - this can be a useful tool for estate planning purposes . If you have any other questions about life insurance or would like help with your own coverage , please send me a message by clicking on the `` contact me '' button or call me at 703-665-9133 .


Input: Does A Will Override A Life Insurance Policy?

Output: Great question ! In most every case , as long as you have named a specific beneficiary -LRB- and be sure you 've checked to ensure that the person you 've named is the one you want to receive it and not an ex-spouse or deceased parent -RRB- the proceeds of life insurance will pass through probate court as designated . That may not be the case if there was no specific beneficiary named , or the person that you 've named is no longer alive to receive it . I advise my clients to review their beneficiaries periodically , and especially after major life changes to help keep things the way they planned . Need more info ? Please contact me . Thanks for asking !


Input: Does A Will Override A Life Insurance Policy?

Output: A will and a life insurance policy are totally different . The will directs the distribution of estate assets . The life insurance policy is a contract that is executed at the time of death but totally outside the will and outside of probate . The only exception would be if through neglect or by plan the proceeds of the life insurance are paid to the estate and therefore become directed by the will .


Input: Does A Will Override A Life Insurance Policy?

Output: As my colleagues have stated , in a word , no , a will does not override the terms and conditions specified in a LIfe Insurance policy . It is usually important that they work together hand in hand as it were , but it is not necessary . Your life insurance policy will , at the time of your death , pay the proceeds as you have specified to your beneficiary or contingent beneficiary . These proceeds will pass directly to that person or entity and are not subject to attachment of any kind including claims by creditors or taxes . It is important to be sure to keep your beneficiary and contingent beneficiary up to date because in the event that neither is available to receive the proceeds , then they become part of your estate and therefore subject to both probate and any claims .


Input: Does A Will Override A Life Insurance Policy?

Output: No , a will does not override a life insurance policy . The beneficiaries that you name in your life insurance policy will literally follow you to the grave . If you want to change them , do so now , so that your life insurance proceeds go to the person or persons that you intended .


Input: Does A Will Override A Life Insurance Policy?

Output: No , a persons life insurance benefits or proceeds are paid directly to the beneficiary . They are not subject to a will or probate . These are two totally different types of end of life events . The exception to this rule would be if the beneficiary is a trust which is controlled by the will . Also , if the life insurance policy primary beneficiary dies prior to the insured and there are no contingent beneficiaries named , then the death proceeds would be left to the insureds estate and the benefits would go through probate court and subject to the wishes spelled out in the will .


Input: Are Health Insurance Costs Going To Increase In 2015?

Output: In the big picture sense , Yes , health insurance rates are going up for the 2015 plan year . As always there are winners and losers in every rating cycle and the implementation of the health insurance marketplaces in 2014 totally reset the pricing dynamics in virtually every state . So , an individual group 's experience or an individual person 's experience with their health insurance rates for 2015 may vary substantially from the overall national trends . And in some ways it is difficult to make apples-to-apples comparisons of a person or group 's pre and post-Obamacare rating and benefit positions because the basic changes to health insurance rating have been so fundamental in the individual and small group marketplaces . Also , I 'll let you in on a secret . Health insurance rates will be higher in 2016 than they were in 2015 . It has been this way for the 30 years of my career and the health care reform law did virtually nothing to address healthcare costs only to increase insured access to healthcare . So , the trend of increasing costs on a year over year basis should be anticipated to continue for the foreseeable future .


Input: Are Health Insurance Costs Going To Increase In 2015?

Output: That is a great question ! The answer is yes , probably , depending upon where you live . Here in Houston , it went up about 4 % , but there are other parts of the country where prices declined , or went up higher than ours , as the insurers got more comfortable with the client base and costs . Overall , the price increases have been very minimal compared to what they were pre-ACA , but if the new Congress and Supreme Court get the bill gutted like they want , then we can most likely expect that the double digit increases return in 2016 . Let 's hope not , especially if you 're one of the people who benefited from the subsidy , or the demise of the pre-existing condition exclusion . If you are , I 'd be writing a Congressman , or three , and a Judge or two to boot ... Thank you for asking !


Input: Are Health Insurance Costs Going To Increase In 2015?

Output: Yes , No , Maybe . Depends what perspective you ask the question . Insured wants to know if their premium , co-payments , deductible and max out of pocket are going to increase ? Normally premiums are guaranteed for a year , unless you have a birthday that moves you into next premium category . Or , there is a regulatory rate increase . Or possibly mandatory dental linked with major medical that is implemented in 2015 . Providers . Costs will probably increase . Costs of providing care will depend on how efficient a business person the doctor , and or facility perform . Insurer . Probably . Newly insured will access health care in the next few years that otherwise would have waited . The hope is to catch potential expensive conditions in early stage , thus reducing overall cost . The migration to electronic record keeping can increase short term costs with hopeful long term efficiencies . Are health insurance costs going to increase in 2015 ? Yep , Nope , Maybe


Input: Who Has The Cheapest Home And Auto Insurance?

Output: The are hundreds of company 's out there available and willing to provide you coverage . I would simply go online , asking for the coverage you are looking for and compare rates . Be careful what you are paying for however . Realize that if you are paying a very low rate , the service you get may be very difficult to work with or get in touch with them . By law , you should have a minimum amount of coverage which they will at least provide . It is when you are in an accident where the service comes in . Your history , age , type of home or car , where you live , etc. will all take into account the actual cost you have to pay . Do a little research , make some calls , do n't believe everything you see online without doing some due diligence .


Input: Does Home Insurance Cover Central Air?

Output: Unless you have an equipment breakdown endorsement or policy with your homeowners coverage your central air unit will not typically be covered . Remember every policy is different . Please read your policy completely to understand the coverage provided and any exclusions that there may be or contact your local agent to have them go over the policy with you .


Input: How Much Is Full Coverage Car Insurance For A New Car?

Output: It can vary a lot from one person to the next , and even what city and state you live in . In my area of the country -LRB- the mid-west -RRB- I would save an average person spends from $ 60 - $ 150 / month for full coverage car insurance . Your credit will play a role in your rate as well as your driving record and even what other drivers might have access to your car .


Input: How Much Is Full Coverage Car Insurance For A New Car?

Output: There are too many factors involved to answer that question specifically , but all other things being equal , the newer the car , the higher the premium . as far as factors specifically related to a new car , what deductibles you choose plays a factor . and the level of gap coverage plays a factor as well . But there are many other factors that are irrelevant to the age of the vehicle as well .


Input: How Much Is Full Coverage Car Insurance For A New Car?

Output: The rules in California are different . However , the true cost of auto insurance is at the moment of claim . If you go for the lowest quote you might well be seriously under-insured . If you buy the insurance required by the lender and have an accident , the lender will probably be fine . If someone is hurt , you might not be fine at all . The cost of the claim could send you into bankruptcy . Carefully consider the appropriate level of coverage that you should buy and place your order with someone you know and trust . Call your agent before you buy . Dont be surprised after you buy .


Input: Which Homeowners Insurance Covers Pitbulls?

Output: Great question . While pitbulls are great dogs for the most part insurance companies tend not to like to insure them . You will have a very hard time to get to cover you dog in your home insurance policy . Most insurance companies have a list of dogs they will not insure and pitbulls are on almost all of them .


Input: Can I Get Car Insurance If I Am Bankrupt?

Output: The financial condition of an applicant is not considered for auto insurance in the state of California . A bankruptcy shouldnt affect an application for auto insurance . In California auto insurance is based upon year , make and model of the vehicle , the driving record of the members of the household , the distance being driven and the location of the household .


Input: Can I Get Car Insurance If I Am Bankrupt?

Output: Bankruptcy does not typically prevent a person from securing auto insurance . There are carriers that will provide coverage for clients that have experienced a bankruptcy . Typically you will be paying more for your coverage though due to the bankruptcy . Contact a local agent to discuss your coverage needs and concerns . They can also provide you with coverage availability and pricing in your area .


Input: How Can I Compare Health Insurance Quotes In New Jersey?

Output: I am not aware of any reputable sites that provide consumers in New Jersey the spectrum of Health Insurance options and prices available to them . But as a Insurance Broker I am able to access this information and would be happy to help inform you of your options , the cost for the different options , and to clearly answer any questions that you may have . Christopher@Lawrence-Financial-Consulting.com -LRB- 609 -RRB- -453 -4359


Input: What To Ask When Buying Renters Insurance?

Output: There are questions to ask an agent , and questions to ask yourself . Ask an agent if he or she will be there to help you when you need help . Ask an agent if their company has a good reputation . Ask an agent if there is sufficient office staff to provide continuous service for the foreseeable future . Ask yourself how much of a loss you can sustain if you are sued for an incident that happens on the property that you rent . Ask yourself if you can allow all of your property to go up in smoke and not suffer any financial impact .


Input: Does Pregnancy Affect Life Insurance?

Output: Does Pregnancy affect life insurance ? Yes and no . If you are in the first two tirmesters , with a normal pregnancy going so far , no real underwriting problems . If you are in your third trimester , most carriers will hold the application till the baby is born . If you are experiencing any complications of pregnancy , you may be rated down or declined until after childbirth .


Input: Does Pregnancy Affect Life Insurance?

Output: If you are in the third trimester of pregnancy , most medically underwritten carriers will ask you to postpone applying for life insurance until after the birth of your baby . Some No Exam policies will accept an application into the third trimester as long as weight and other guidelines are met . In the first two trimesters of pregnancy , it varies between carriers , but you should be able to find a company that will cover you with little affect on your premium .


Input: Can People With HIV Get Life Insurance?

Output: Unfortunately , people with HIV have a very hard time getting life insurance . Even if they have had no symptoms and have lived for many years being HIV positive , they are put into the same category as those who have the final stage of HIV infection , which is AIDS . If age 40 or over , there are guaranteed issue policies that can be purchased by persons with HIV . Younger people might want to look to credit unions or other sources that offer low face amount policies with no health questions , as a perk for signing up .


Input: Can People With HIV Get Life Insurance?

Output: There is a Group policy available to individuals through a membership plan . The membership comes with $ 10,000 in Life Insurance with the option to buy-up in $ 10,000 increments up to $ 100,000 in total coverage . It is very inexpensive compared to those guaranteed policies and any age can purchase as long as you work 30 hours or more per week and the membership comes with advantages like discount dental , vision , pharmacy benefits also . It is not available in AK , MT , SD , UT VT , or WA . Contact me for more information


Input: Can People With HIV Get Life Insurance?

Output: Can people with HIVget life insurance ? In the traditional sense ? no . Some states allow for guaranteed issue or graded policies to be sold . These type of policies will be priced much higher than traditional life insurance , but if one path is closed , another opens up and any person with serious health conditions should weigh out the cost to the benefit of having life insurance .


Input: Can People With HIV Get Life Insurance?

Output: People with HIV can get life insurance although you will fall into a guaranteed issue situation . Insurance companies are all about how long you are expected to live . Unfortunately HIV reduces the mortality . Most insurance companies will not underwrite these people . Companies that offer a guaranteed issue or perhaps a graded benefit will look at giving you some life insurance however the death benefit available is limited .


Input: What Happens When Term Life Insurance Is Up?

Output: When the term is up on a term life insurance policy , either the policy ends , or the policy goes into an annually renewable term -LRB- unless it has a rider or feature that enables it to enter a new level premium at a higher price -RRB- . This new annually renewable premium is much higher than the original term premium was and can go up every year after that .


Input: What Happens When Term Life Insurance Is Up?

Output: This depends on what specifically you are referring to when you say `` is up . '' When the level term period is over , the premium will generally increase . If the policy owner wishes to pay the premiums and keep the policy , he or she has that option . Term policies will reach a point where they can no longer be continued . In this circumstance , the policy terminates and coverage is no longer available from the policy .


Input: What Is The Federal Health Insurance Exchange?

Output: It 's a website marketplace where individuals and small groups can shop for and buy their health insurance plans . Each state had the option of implementing their own state-run exchange or let the federal government handle a state 's health insurance exchange . You can also use the exchanges to help you determine whether or not you qualify for a subsidy that can help you lower the cost of your insurance premiums or if you are eligible for Medicaid . Even though you CAN do it on your own , it 's always advisable to consult with an experienced health insurance broker who can guide you through the process and make sure everything is in good order and that your coverage is in force -LRB- a critical point considering all of the technical issues people have encountered with the roll-out of the new programs -RRB- . There is a ton of information to sift through and comparing plans can be very difficult and time consuming . I hope the information is helpful - please feel free to contact me for help and if you have any other questions . Thanks very much .


Input: What Is The Federal Health Insurance Exchange?

Output: That is an excellent question ! The federal Health Insurance Exchange is the name for the website WEBSITELINK that was created by the Affordable Care Act -LRB- Obamacare -RRB- . The exchange is a marketplace where various companies listed the health insurance policies that they were willing to offer . These companies also marketed them outside of the exchange , and others as well . The advantage of going to the exchange to shop is that the Government offers financial help to those who qualify -LRB- and a lot of people do -RRB- and often dramatically reduces the cost of the coverage . I have helped people find policies to cover both health and dental for a total of $ 41 per month , coverage that for health alone was $ 134 per month outside the exchange . I hope that helps , thanks for asking !


Input: Is Long Term Care Insurance A Tax Deduction?

Output: Tax Qualified -LRB- TQ -RRB- Long Term Care Insurance premiums are a tax deduction as a medical expense , as established when HIPAA came into effect . Older LTCI policies in effect at that time were grandfathered in , and policies bought since then must be TQ policies to qualify for the tax deduction .


Input: Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Leaks In A Ceiling?

Output: Homeowners Insurance policies generally do cover ceiling leaks ; however , one must be cautious on this topic . Primarily , we must discover the cause of loss and make sure that the cause of loss is one of the covered perils on the policy . We must be certain that there were no exclusions on the policy -LRB- i.e. Roof Leaking Exclusion -RRB- . In few situations , a carrier may be willing to insure a home knowing that the roof is not in good condition , it has been known for few carriers to accept a roof exclusion and in this case , the policy would not cover leaks as a result of the known and exluded condition . If the loss is covered , items that will affect the payout of the claim would be Depreciation -LRB- if the policy is not a replacement cost policy -RRB- and the selected Deductible which will be deducted from the final payout ! For information on a homeowners policy , please review the following : WEBSITELINK


Input: Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Leaks In A Ceiling?

Output: Perhaps yes , but it is important to talk to your insurance professional about your policy and the cause of the leak . If the damage is caused by a covered loss , then the claim will be settled but of course subject to your deductible . Here in CT this past winter we once again saw a number of claims lke this that were ice dam related .


Input: What Are Settlement Options For Life Insurance?

Output: Life settlements for life insurance are the options that the beneficiary has in receiving the death benefit upon the death of the Insured person . 1 -RRB- Lump Sum . The entire amount is paid to the beneficiary , all at one time , shortly after the Insured person 's death . 2 -RRB- Fixed Amount . The death benefit is paid in set installments , plus interest , until the entire death benefit has been paid to the beneficiary . 3 -RRB- Fixed Period . A time in the future is set when the entire death benefit is to be received in full by the beneficiary . Then it is paid at set times , plus interest , so that the entire amount is paid out by that point in time . 4 -RRB- Interest Only . The life insurance company holds the death benefit in trust and pays the interest earned to the beneficiary at set intervals . The death benefit is paid out in a life income plan . 5 -RRB- Life Income . The insurance company uses the death benefit to purchase Single Premium Immediate Annuity , so that income to the beneficiary will continue as long as the beneficiary is alive .


Input: What Is A Life Insurance Policy That You Can Cash In?

Output: In order to provide a level death benefit for a level premium , whole life insurance policies accumulate cash value to offset the increasing cost of providing coverage . The companies are willing and bound by contract to exchange their promise for coverage for the cash value of the policy . That cash value can be received in several ways and need not be a lump sum .


Input: What Is A Life Insurance Policy That You Can Cash In?

Output: Cash value life insurance is generally permanent life insurance that accumulates cash values by four basic crediting methods : participating whole life dividends interest rate crediting , indexed crediting and separate subaccounts that use equity and bond instruments . All cash value policies have expenses associated with them as well as surrender charges .


Input: Who Does Medicare Part B Cover?

Output: Medicare Part B covers your doctors and outpatient services such as blood tests , X-Rays , MRI 's . and other outpatient testing . Part B also covers Durable Medical Equipment such as walkers , emergency service , flu shots , diabetic foot exams , Glaucoma testing , home health services -LRB- limited -RRB- , dialysis , and certain types of drugs in addition to an annual wellness exam . For a comprehensive answer see Medicare & You 2013 edition or go to Medicare.gov . You can also speak with a good agent specializing in Medicare and the needs of older adults .


Input: What Is The Best Insurance Company For Home And Auto?

Output: The best auto and home insurance company will be different for every applicant . With more than 33 years of experience as a broker -LRB- and top-rated websites -RRB- , this question is often asked . Here 's the secret to getting the best rates and coverage from the top companies . Use a broker ! There is no cost or fee and typically , you 'll save money , time and a lot of frustration !


Input: What Is The Best Insurance Company For Home And Auto?

Output: That is a great question ! There are a lot of solid , well respected companies out there that you can be safe working with . I do not like naming them specifically in forums like this , as it can be taken as an endorsement , or ad , and that is not something that I want to do . I will say that what you want to do is find an agent who will listen to what you want , and then help you find a company and policy that fits you . Shop around , and do your homework first . If you would like some help , please feel free to contact me , I 'd be happy to help . Thank you for asking !


Input: What Is The Best Insurance Company For Home And Auto?

Output: The best company is the one that insures you and pays the maximum allowable when you have a claim . The best place to buy that policy is from a trusted insurance agent . That agent will listen to you , give you good financial advice , and communicate accurately with you and the company . The time to find out what policy is best is when you have a claim ; up to that point the trusted advice of a good agent is important .


Input: How To Cancel Life Insurance Policy At Primerica?

Output: Before you cancel any life insurance policy , you should talk to your agent to make sure it 's the right move for you . One of the things that most people do n't think about is their insurability , especially when they have an existing plan . They may have preferred rates at the time they got it , but now have a medical history and may be looking at standard or substandard rates on a new plan if they decided to get coverage again later on . If you 're looking at securing new coverage / replacing the old policy , you should compare the two structures and make sure it 's the most favorable course of action for you . Third , if you 're cancelling it because of premium affordability , you may have an option to simply reduce the face amount or term period of the coverage to reduce the premiums . After all proper considerations are done and you still want to cancel the policy , you can do one of two things : 1 -RRB- simply stop paying the premiums and the policy will just lapse on its own 2 -RRB- call the carrier and tell them to terminate the coverage -LRB- if you have a permanent policy with cash value , you can request to receive the cash value proceeds -LRB- less any surrender charges or loan fees -RRB- , if applicable/available . Please let me know if I can be of further assistance . Thanks very much .


Input: How To Cancel Life Insurance Policy At Primerica?

Output: Great question ! The best way to cancel it is to call them , ask what -LRB- if any -RRB- cash value there is in the policy , and ask for a surrender form . That will allow you to draw out the value in it -LRB- minus whatever unpaid premium or fees there may be -RRB- and end your coverage . If there is no value in it , like in a Term policy , you can either write , call and cancel , or just stop paying , and your coverage will end . If you are set up on a monthly bank draw with them , you need to ensure that the processed is stopped , or they will continue to ding you for the premium amount . Please be sure that you have an active policy in place first , and that the agent had explained very clearly the benefits and risks of making this move . I hate to say it , but there are agents out there who will convince you that you need to change , not because it is best for you , but because their rent is due . I 'd be happy to walk you through this decision in more detail if you would like , please feel free to contact me . Thank you for asking !


Input: Are Life Insurance Payouts Taxable In Florida?

Output: Life insurance payouts are not taxable in Florida or any other state , in regard to income tax . If the life insurance is left to a beneficiary who is a person , as opposed to leaving it to the estate , then that person will not have to pay income taxes on the life insurance payout .


Input: How Good Is Allianz Home Insurance?

Output: Allianz home insurance seems to be reputable and reliable . Although I have been a broker for more than 32 years , I am not nearly as familiar with Allianz as I am with the vast majority of other highly-rated companies . Their website appears to be updated , and contains current information . An experienced broker can shop the best rates for you , and make the best recommendation .


Input: What Is The Difference Between Disability Insurance And Critical Illness Insurance?

Output: Disability Insurance is paycheck protection in case you cant work . It can cover up to And Critical Illness Insurance ? Disability insurance benefits can pay up to 60 % of your compensation tax free and up to 80 % taxable if you can deduct the premium as a business expense . Critical illness covers the cost of the medical bills as stated in the policy . If you purchase a critical illness policy the benefit can range from $ 5,000 to $ 50,000 .


Input: What Is The Difference Between Disability Insurance And Critical Illness Insurance?

Output: Disability and critical illness are both morbidity insurance products . Disability insurance generates income instead of your paycheck when you 're laid up from injuries or sickness on or off the job . Critical illness is protection against medical expenses incurred due to a dire sickness , generally a protracted or ongoing illness .


Input: Can Life Insurance Proceeds Be Taken By Creditors?

Output: Life insurance proceeds can be taken by creditors if the proceeds go into the estate of the deceased insured person . This happens if the beneficiary of the policy is named `` the estate '' or if the persons listed as beneficiaries are no longer alive . If the beneficiary is a living person , the creditors for the deceased can not go after the insurance proceeds from the beneficiary . If it is the beneficiary who owes debt , creditors may try to access the life insurance money that the beneficiary was left .


Input: Can You Exchange Annuity To Life Insurance?

Output: The IRS created section 1035 for the free exchange of annuities to annuities polices as well as life insurance cash values to annuities polices . But you can not use the 1035 exchange rules to transfer annuity values to life insurance policy . If your annuity policy has no gain it you consider funding life insurance with your annuity surrender value . But consult your tax adviser before moving forward considering surrenders or exchanges .


Input: What Is Dividend In Mutual Fund?

Output: That is a great question ! A dividend is a share of a companies profits that they choose to pay back to their stockholders . The company decides on the amount of the profit to divide , the amount of the dividend , and whether or not to pay one at all . Hopefully your mutual fund is loaded with some companies paying out some fat , steady dividends to you ! Thanks for asking !


Input: What Is Dividend In Mutual Fund?

Output: What is a dividend in a mutual fund ? A dividend is a way to pass profit onto investors that own shares via that fund . The dividends actually come from the different companies the mutual fund buys into that make up it 's portfolio . The fund passes them along to the fund holders .


Input: How Much Can I Expect To Pay For Health Insurance?

Output: The cost of health insurance is determined by your age only under the new ACA law . However , the premiums vary among companies mainly because of differences in deductibles and some benefits . In South Carolina there are only four companies available to shop on the federal exchange and they are Blue Cross/Blue Shield , Blue Choice , Coventry , and Consumer Choice , the last two having weak networks . By going through the exchange to get coverage with one of these carriers you may qualify for a subsidy which would lower the premium . Outside of the federal exchange United Health One offers more flexible plans that are compliant with the ACA laws and offer the only HSA qualified plans . If you choose to go through United Health One you are eliminated from obtaining a subsidy if you qualify but they offer some very competitive pricing . For those of you who are boycotting the federal plans entirely or have missed the open enrollment period , there are short term medical plans and non-qualified plans available to purchase as an alternative . For many these plans offer great coverage at a much lower premium . If you have any questions or would like further information on alternative plans please contact me , Ronald G Hinch at 843-450-9879 .


Input: Can Life Insurance Companies See Your Medical Records?

Output: Yes , as part of the application you will sign a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Ac -LRB- HIPAA -RRB- release as part of the application , which grants release of your medical records to the insurance companies and it 's agent . This allows the company to order your medical charts at it 's discretion for review .


Input: Can Life Insurance Companies See Your Medical Records?

Output: The vast majority of consumers want the cheapest life insurance coverage available . To accomplish this , they need to be fully underwritten by the insurance carrier which includes obtaining their medical history , their prescriptionregiment , blood and urine analysisand sometime an EKG . The carriers need your authorization to collect all this data , but it 's worth it , especiallyto a healthy consumer . Life insurance has several underwriting categories thatparseyour medical information to calculate lowest cost of insurance . Non smokers have five categories that can represent a 20 % difference in price , sopreppingfor good exam results may be just as important as good medical records .


Input: Can Life Insurance Companies See Your Medical Records?

Output: Not without your permission . Life insurance companies rely on information you provide on the application for life insurance plus , when medically underwritten , they review information from the paramedical exam , lab results and medical records . But they can not see any of that without your authorization . Any information they obtain is subject to strict privacy controls .


Input: Can Life Insurance Companies See Your Medical Records?

Output: Canlife insurance companies see your medical records ? Yes , but only with your permission . That said , your permission is part of the application process . Insurance companies with your consent , can check with your doctor for chart notes and use the MIB to check your medical history . Think of the MIB as similar to credit history except for health care . One thing to be aware of is even the non-exam companies still check your medical history . You can find plans that do n't search medical history or do labs , and they will insure you , but you 'll find their pricing to be up in the range where they charge for poor health to begin with .


Input: Can Life Insurance Companies See Your Medical Records?

Output: Yes , there is a form in the application called a HIPAA -LRB- Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act -RRB- that gives the carrier authorization to order and view your medical records . This authorization usually remains in-force for 24 months -LRB- 12 months in Kansas -RRB- from the date signed . A parent or guardian signs this form on behalf of a minor .


Input: Can Life Insurance Companies See Your Medical Records?

Output: If you are applying for a policy with a company that does medical underwriting , and have a health condition for which they need additional information , the insurance company can request to see your medical records . There is usually a HIPAA form included with the application for you to give your permission , and some doctor 's offices require that you sign a separate form for release of your records to the life insurance company . If you do not have a health condition for which extra information is needed , the insurance company will not look at your medical records . That incurs a cost to them , so they only do so if necessary to issue you a fair health rating .


Input: Who Is The Top Rated Life Insurance Company?

Output: There is no one top rated life insurance company , but every life insurance company has the chance to earn the top ratings from several different rating companies . That being said , only a small % of companies get the top rating . To find a company 's rating , you can go to their website and hit the `` About Us '' tab . The main rating companies are AM Best -LRB- for which A + + is their top rating -RRB- , S&P -LRB- for which AAA is highest -RRB- , Fitch -LRB- also uses AAA for best rating -RRB- and Moody 's -LRB- Aaa is their top rating -RRB- .


Input: How Much Is Home Contents Insurance Per Month?

Output: Home contents insurance is either a renters policy or it could be a condominium policy . In either case there are two limits that determine the premium . . The first is the liability limit . Select the highest limit that you can afford . It is cheap and a lawsuit can result in bankruptcy . The next is the personal property limit . Take photos of every part of your residence . On paper describe each object and the replacement cost . Add those values and you will have your property limit . Many of these policies are in place for $ 8-12 per month .


Input: How Often Do You Pay Health Insurance?

Output: That is a great question ! As a rule , most insurance premiumpayments are paid on a monthly basis . Some , like your auto or life insurance policies , can also be paid on a quarterly , semi-annual -LRB- every six months -RRB- or annually . Health insurance though , as a rule is typically a monthly payment , though your provider may also allow for other payment schedules . Thanks for asking !


Input: How Often Do You Pay Health Insurance?

Output: Typically , you pay your health insurance each month . Although quarterly and annual payments are sometimes permitted , an electronic withdraw or direct bill is the most common . If you have group coverage through an employer , you may have your payment automatically deducted weekly or twice per month directly from your paycheck . This question was answered LIVE by Ed Harris - Premier health insurance broker since 1980 .


Input: Which Kind Of Life Insurance Should I Get?

Output: I guess the best way to answer your question is to say that you should work with your Insurance Professional to explore your needs and plans for the future . There are numerous options available to you , so I would say that the kind of life insurance that you should get is the option that best meets your needs and fits your budget . Either way ... do n't wait !


Input: Which Kind Of Life Insurance Should I Get?

Output: It depends on what you 're looking for . Term life plans are designed to cover large items -LRB- like a house -RRB- that will still need to be paid after you die in order to make it easier for the people you leave behind . Once the item is paid off , term life is n't as important . Whole life can be used as a gift , to pay for funeral expenses , or to leave a legacy to your family . Some plans can be used as a source of income if you need extra money . Then there are hybrid plans that combine some of the above features . The best option is to talk to an independent broker in your area that has studied all of these types and discuss your needs . They will be happy to help you find the plan that works best for you .


Input: Which Kind Of Life Insurance Should I Get?

Output: It is simply impossible to answer that without knowing more about you , your finances , and your goals for your future . Life insurance is an important puzzle piece that can keep your family safe and your financial profile intact . However , there are different types of life insurance because the puzzle piece that works best for you is not the same one that works best for someone else . This is one of those questions where a personal call or email is the the only way to really answer it correctly . I am here most of the time !


Input: Which Kind Of Life Insurance Should I Get?

Output: This can actually be a bit of a loaded question because the type of coverage you 're looking for , your need , your risk class , premium tolerance , and a number of other factors will really direct where you should go to buy your insurance . Term insurance is ideal for short term protection -LRB- e.g. paying off a mortgage or providing income in the event of an early or unexpected death -RRB- . Permanent insurance is ideal for long-term safety net protection , estate planning , retirement planning . Many people buy both types of coverage -LRB- a combination of benefits -RRB- - some permanent to protect against the future after other debts are paid off and some term to cover time-limited debts -LRB- such as a mortgage , car , etc. -RRB- . Term insurance provides more bang-for-your-buck up front , but it 's only for a short period . Permanent insurance allows you to pay the same premium for the rest of your life without having to worry about it going up in the future . You can also create a combination of benefits by having some a larger sum total of term insurance for the first part and have it drop to a lower amount for the back end of a given length of time -LRB- e.g. you have $ 1,000,000 for the first 20 years and then have it drop down to $ 500,000 for years 21-30 -RRB- . A brief description of the two types of coverage are as follows : Term life insurance guarantees the premiums will remain fixed for a specific number of years -LRB- 10 , 15 , 20 , 25 , or 30 years -RRB- . Once the initial period of premium guarantee expires , the program changes to either annual renewable term insurance with premiums increasing each year -LRB- based on age -RRB- or the premiums remain the same and the death benefit decreases each year -LRB- this structure can be seen on term insurance that is featured on a universal life chassis . There is no cash value build-up in term insurance . Permanent life insurance is designed to provide coverage for the rest of the insured 's life and build cash value . Under a guaranteed universal life -LRB- GUL -RRB- program , the policy can be structured to keep premiums level and provide coverage up to a specified age -LRB- e.g. to age 90 , to age 100 , or even up to age 121 -RRB- under the `` dial down '' process . Whole life features level premiums and death benefits and builds cash value at a faster rate -LRB- participating WL policies may pay dividends that can be used to increase the death benefit or decrease the premiums over time - non-participating WL policies do not feature this ability -RRB- - the trade off between this and guaranteed universal life is that to increase the cash value faster , the premiums will generally be substantially higher . For both GUL and WL , the carrier takes back the cash value upon the death of the insured , and pays out the death benefit proceeds . Therefore , GUL policies allow you to maximize your death benefit and minimize your premium dollars that you pay for the coverage . It 's always advisable to consult with an experienced life insurance broker to determine what policy benefit structure will best serve your needs , review quotes , and help you through the application and underwriting processes . Please feel free to contact me for help or if you have any other questions . Thanks very much .


Input: Who Offers The Best Long Term Disability Insurance?

Output: The insurance company that offers the best disability plan is the company you purchase the policy from with the best coverage at the best price . There are too many factors that are in play when buying a disability insurance policy to state if one company is the best . There are several companies that do an outstanding job with disability coverage . I recommend using an independent broker to professionally shop for the best product at the best price for your unique situation .


Input: How Does Colonial Penn Life Insurance Work?

Output: Colonial Penn is mainly a guaranteed issue life insurance that is sold through the mail . It wo n't pay the death claim if you die during the first 24 - months unless you die of an accident . No one should ever buy these type of policies without talking to an independent agent first to research your other choices . Almost everyone can buy a better policy with coverage from your very 1st premium and with a lower price . If the agent determines that you ca n't qualify for a 1st day coverage policy he can at least show you better priced options . All the life insurance plans that are sold through the mail are bad choices . They either do not pay during the first 24-months -LRB- unacceptable -RRB- or increasing premium term life insurance that will cancel you at some age . Almost all seniors qualify for better deals than that .


Input: When Should You Buy Home Insurance?

Output: You should have home insurance in place at the time you close on the loan or the closing of the home . Once your name is on the deed you are responsible for everything that happens to that property . For example if you have a $ 100,000 loan for the property and it burns to the ground you would be liable for the loan even if you had no insurance . If someone comes to your home and falls down the stairs and has a $ 2000 emergency room claim , you are responsible . You should contact a broker like myself and get some quotes and coverage . Please visit WEBSITELINK


Input: What Is The Difference Between Annuities And Perpetuities?

Output: Generally an annuity uses scheduled of fixed payments for a time certain period of basis and interest . Perpetuities are a schedule of fixed payments , generally for the life of the annuitant , of basis and interest with mortality credits added to the account tied to the age of the annuitant .


Input: Is Humana Medicare Good?

Output: Humana offers two kinds of Medicare coverage . In some areas you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan . Advantage plans vary by zip code and may not be available in your home town area . Most people will want to consider traditional Medicare and a Medigap plan . Humana only offers Medicare supplement plans A , B , C , F , K , L , N and Hi F in Georgia . Compare rates before you buy .


Input: Is Humana Medicare Good?

Output: Humana is a good company . Depending on your area and circumstances it may or may not be the plan for you . They have both a Medicare Supplement and a Medicare Advantage Plan in some area 's . Where you live will make a difference as to what plans are available and how competitive they are . It would be best to consult a local independent agent who knows the plans available to you in your area and can help you decide on a plan based on your needs . If you are in Ohio I would be glad to help .


Input: Does Medicare Cover Zyban?

Output: Zyban is chemically similar to Buproprion . Both medications are used to treat depression but also can be used as part of a smoking cessation program . Buproprion is covered by Medicare Part D and does not require prior authorization from your carrier . Zyban may be prescribed by your doctor as part of a smoking cessation program if other treatment protocols have not worked . Medicare Part D may require prior authorization .


Input: Is SAGA Home Insurance Any Good?

Output: SAGA Home Insurance is a foreign company doing business in the U. S. that supposedly caters to the over 50 market . The first question I would have is the cultural differences that could be built into the policy that you would not know about until you had a claim . The marketing `` over 50 '' concept is an obvious push to appeal to the more established individual that has assets and therefore insuring a more expensive home . Companies like CHUBB , Hartford , and certainly State Farm has not failed to recognize that market . A foreign company would really have to compete for my business and they would have to convince me that there policies incorporate the values we expect in the U. S. . Am I saying that the policies are bad-no , not at all . I am saying you are going to do your due diligence if you decide to spend your money with a foreign company . What guarantees do you have that a policy dispute you may have can be successfully negotiated when you are dealing with a foreign company . Contrast that against your ability to appeal the decision of a U S Company direct to your DOI vs. having to hire an attorney .


Input: Does Home Insurance Cover Leaks?

Output: Not sure what type of leak you are referring to , but in regards to things like roof leaks and pipe leaks generally speaking a home insurance policy could pay to fix the damage the leak causes but most wo n't pay to fix the actual leak itself . BE AWARE that this pertains to new or recent leaks . Many carriers have put language in their policy contracts over the last couple of years excluding coverage for for prolonged leaks . Some carriers have even set a time frame as short as 14 days for this exclusion . Every carrier is different and those carriers are even different from state to state . This is something you definitely need to run past your local independent agent . Do n't discuss this in general terms , but ask for the specific language in your actual policy .


Input: Who Are The Largest Life Insurance Companies In The Us?

Output: The largest life insurance company in the US is MetLife , Inc. . The next largest life insurance company in the United States is Prudential Financial . American International Group is third largest , now selling their life insurance products through American General Life Companies . AXA and Allianz are based in other countries but even larger than MetLife and do sell life insurance in the US .


Input: I just got a bill from my Chiropractor from 5 years ago. Do I have to legally pay for this?

Output: Having been in a similar situation I would say `` no '' . Why ? Your chiropractor knows there is a limited amount of time to file with an insurance company for payment . Usually about a year . After that , the insurance company is not obligated to pay the claim . Pretty much neither are you . Why ? you did n't hire his/her accounts receivable clerk . Your chiropractor has a professional responsibility to handle the billing end of their practice along with the treatment end . 5 years late is beyond `` reasonable '' to bill . They screwed up and probably with more than just you . This is sort of a fishing trip to see who bites on their office 's lack of follow through . It is basically stating `` I ca n't run my business professionally , please cover for my mistakes . '' I would n't ignore them , I would talk to them about it and state why I did n't feel the need to pay .


Input: I just got a bill from my Chiropractor from 5 years ago. Do I have to legally pay for this?

Output: That 's an interesting question ! It sounds as if you admit that you 've used the Chiropractor 's services , and that you are admitting that the bill in question is legitimate . If that 's the case , it also seems like at the time you might have realized there was a mistake in the billing if you 'd not had to pay ? Perhaps they 've had a billing issue , and they 've just now found it -LRB- stranger things have happened -RRB- . Unless you can show you have already paid for the service , yes , morally at least you 're obligated to pay , and most likely legally also . I 'm absolutely certain that paying them will be infinitely better for you than having the bill go to collections and having a debt company buying it and getting a hefty judgement against you while trashing your credit -LRB- that 's a multibillion dollar business , by the way -RRB- . If you owe it , pay . Thanks for asking !


Input: How Long Does It Take To Get A Renters Insurance Policy?

Output: As long as it takes you to go down to your local independent agents office and fill out the paperwork . You can be covered the same day as you apply as long as you meet the underwriting requirements of the company you apply to . The agent can then give you a binder to show your landlord if necessary .


Input: Can IRS Take Annuities?

Output: Non-qualified tax deferred annuities are personal property and an economic asset . It is feasible to think that the IRS could collect liquid assets to satisfy taxes due after attempts to secure payment had been made . A tax attorney in familiar with the IRS is best suited and should be consulted in payment resolution disputes with the IRS .


Input: What Does Clark Howard Say About Annuities?

Output: Clark Howard has several pieces of content and video online regarding a host of product lines , including annuities . To say that Clark is not a fan of annuities may be an understatement . His opinion pieces appear to be less objective and more anti insurance product , then an arbiter of the facts .


Input: Is Lunesta Covered By Medicare D?

Output: Lunesta is a type of prescription medication , generally used to treat insomnia . Since it 's a medication , you would need to look at your Medicare prescription drug coverage -LRB- Part C , Medicare Advantage with drug coverage , or your Part D standalone prescription drug plan -RRB- formulary to see if it 's covered . A formulary is the list of medications covered by your plan .


Input: Is Health Insurance Mandatory For Employees?

Output: Beginning in 2014 health care will be mandatory for every American . The PPACA , or better known to the public as Obamacare , will be implemented six months from now . The intent of the legislation is to provide health coverage for every American at an affordable price , supposedly lower than current premiums today . Most economists and some government agencies predict that Obamacare will cost much more to operate than previously thought and will impact the economy adversely . Keep in mind that this is a federal program . Any short fall of the program will be borne by federal income tax payers . Only 53 % of Americans pay federal income taxes . Taxes will increase or the U.S. debt will increase or both with the imposition of Obamacare .


Input: Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Electrical Work?

Output: If you own the house that is described in a homeowners policy there is coverage for the house located on the property , which includes additions and built-in parts and fixtures . There is also coverage for related private structures that are also on the described property which are not attached to the residence . When there is an occurrence that isnt expected or intended by the owner to the property there is coverage . This coverage means physical injury to tangible property and this includes the loss of use . Electrical wiring and fixtures are components of a residence and may be present in private structures located on the premises such as a pool shed or detached garage . When electrical work is required because of damage to the structure the electrical work becomes a covered expense . Policies differ as to which perils are covered . The most comprehensive form is called all risk . In this form any damage to the residence is covered except . The list isnt long ; however , flood and earthquake are at the top of the list . Electrical work poses another problem in that after damage has been sustained the repair work might fall under restrictions , codes , ordinances and law that were not in effect at the time of the original construction . The insurance company does not pay for the increased cost which results from the enforcement of these laws and codes . Some companies do not apply this to glass . Most companies offer a provision to cover these costs at an additional premium . The policy makes it clear that the company does not pay for damage that is the result of the neglect or the insured . It also does not pay for damage that is the result of power disruption . This means that if your loss is the result of the utility company failing to supply power , the resulting damage isnt covered . This is assuming that the actual damage is not on the covered premises . The insurance company does not pay for wear and tear . There are many ways to describe this damage that is sustained because the house was not maintained . Some of the issues that arise are deterioration , mechanical breakdown , rust , wet or dry rot , corrosion , mold , contamination or smog . The insurance company does not pay for electrical work that is the result of an act committed by or at the direction of the insured . In summary , if the electrical work required is the result of a fire or lightening , windstorm or hail , explosion , riot , aircraft , vehicles , sudden accidental damage by smoke , vandalism , theft , falling objects , weight of ice , snow or sleet , collapse of a building , sudden tearing apart , accidental discharge or overflow of liquids or steam from plumbing , heating or air-conditioning systems , or freezing , the policy will pay for repair of electrical components of the residence and other structures on the premises . If the electrical system needs repair as the result of other factors such as wear and tear , there isnt any coverage . The homeowners policy is designed to cover you when the unexpected occurs .


Input: What Is Best Medigap Policy?

Output: Plan F offers the most comprehensive coverage - it covers all Medigap benefits at 100 % from day 1 . The advantage of this plan is that it creates a very predictable healthcare expense structure -LRB- for the most part , you 're writing a check for your premium and you 're done - you wo n't get hit with big bills for any Medicare-approved charge -RRB- . Plan G is the second most comprehensive plan available - it 's identical to plan F except you would be responsible for the Medicare Part B deductible -LRB- $ 147 in 2014 -RRB- . The advantage of a plan G is that in many areas the savings in premium per year are greater than the cost of the deductible . For example , if the difference in premium is $ 30 per month - you 're saving $ 360 per year by taking on a risk of $ 147 . Please note , the plans feature the exact same benefits regardless of which carrier you have the coverage through - the big factor to look at the price of the plan you select . I hope the information is helpful - please feel free to contact me for assistance with your Medigap coverage and if you have any other questions . Thanks very much .


Input: What Are The Best Health Insurance Plans In Georgia?

Output: There are no truly `` best '' plans but there are a lot to avoid . Most carriers have plans that only cover generic drugs , and some have plans that cover some generics and a few brand name . I would avoid those plans at all costs . Consider your OOP -LRB- out of pocket -RRB- maximum . Some include the deductible while others are in addition to the deductible . Most plans cap your family OOP at 2x the individual maximum while some are 3x . If you have a family plan , consider those that limit the OOP to 2x . Also , be aware that copay 's do not count toward your deductible or OOP maximum .


Input: What Are The Best Health Insurance Plans In Georgia?

Output: The best Health Insurance Plan is the plan that covers the most for the premium that you can afford . Most people will look to cover with a traditional company and be held to the old style of coverage . The new Health Reform law has created many problems for families and small businesses and their ability to afford coverage . The best plan might be a traditional plan with Copays and Rx coverage or it might be something else such as a high deductible plan , or self insure plan with stop loss coverage . Many new ideas such as tele-medicine or defined contribution might help improve your benefits . You should work with a health insurance broker that is aware of multiple offers and solutions . A quote through a website might leave you with paying too much or not getting the most benefits for your premium dollars . The best plan is changing and you will need information to make a `` best '' decision .


Input: Does The Army Give You Life Insurance?

Output: That is a great question ! If you are in the Armed forces , it is virtually impossible to get life insurance through a normal life insurance carrier . Being likely to see combat , or even be in an area where hostilities are likely is enough to scare off the risk averse insurer . Fortunately the Government offers life insurance through SGLI , Servicemembers ' Group Life , so you can be taken care of . I hope that helps , thanks for asking !


Input: Does The Army Give You Life Insurance?

Output: The military can provide options to obtaining Life Insurance and will encourage you to get all your affairs in order including Life Insurance before deployment . From what I understand , there is a small cost to this coverage . Mainstream companies which the general public has access to usually will not provide coverage to those military personnel who are deployed to what we call `` hot zones '' . Every Life Insurance Company has an updated list which is considered `` hot '' and will tend to decline coverage , or rate it higher as the likelihood of being killed is much higher .


Input: Does The Army Give You Life Insurance?

Output: The Army gives you $ 400,000 of life insurance under SGLI -LRB- Servicemembers ' Group Life Insurance -RRB- . There is a nominal cost to you for this coverage . If you do not want it , or do not want all of it , you can choose to take under $ 400,000 or none of it at all .


Input: What Is Employer Sponsored Health Insurance?

Output: Employer sponsored health insurance is a group health insurance policy put in place by an employer for the benefit of their employees . Under this arrangement the employer is the actual insurance policy holder -LRB- employees receive a certificate of coverage under the group plan -RRB- and is required to make a financial contribution towards the cost of the coverage and to maintain a certain minimum level of enrollment among their workforce in order tokeep the group policy in force . Employer sponsored health insurance is the most common way that Americans receive their health insurance coverage .


Input: Can I Cash Out My Life Insurance Policy?

Output: If you have cash in your life insurance policy , you have permanent cash value life insurance . You cash out or surrender the policy for its monetary values . If you do be advised that you also are terminating your death benefit coverage and you may have an ordinary income taxable event for any gain in the policy at its surrender .


Input: Does Medigap Cover Hearing Aids?

Output: Medicare supplement -LRB- Medigap -RRB- plans do not cover hearing aids - the same goes for vision and dental coverage as well . You would need to purchase a separate hearing insurance plan to cover hearing aids . Send me a private message on here if you would like assistance with your medigap plan needs or check out my website for information as well .


Input: Does State Farm Offer Life Insurance?

Output: Yes , State Farm does offer life insurance . However , I have some clients who bought State Farm life insurance and then ended up buying different policies because they were much less expensive . Shopping for life insurance with an independent agent like myself gives you access to over 70 A rated or better life insurance companies . Many of these life insurance companies offer policies less expensive than State Farm and they may be less restrictive when it comes to certain health conditions . If you use State Farm for your other insurance needs , I would highly recommend you shop your life insurance with an independent agent because you will most likely save a significant amount of money .


Input: When Can I Join A Medicare Advantage Plan?

Output: You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan when you are first eligible for Medicare Part A and Part B. For most people that will be when they turn age 65 . If you are approved for Social Security disability -LRB- SSDI -RRB- you should qualify for Medicare after 2 years on SSDI . If you are covered on an employer group health insurance plan beyond age 65 you can enroll in an Advantage plan when your group health plan terminates .


Input: How To Pick The Right Health Insurance Plan?

Output: Get the help of an independent insurance broker . There 's a lot of moving parts to health insurance plans and it is extremely helpful to get the assistance of someone knowledgeable in the subject matter who can guide you through the process -LRB- plan information , quotes , applying , future assistance , etc. -RRB- . The `` right plan '' will be different for everyone which is why a broker can really help smooth out the process for you . Each person has their own premium affordability , live in different areas , plan network preferences -LRB- e.g. HMO vs. PPO vs. POS , etc. -RRB- , and risk tolerance , just to name a few factors that go into making a proper decision . If you would like help in figuring out the right plan for you , send me a private message or visit our website , www.TermInsuranceBrokers.com , for additional health insurance information and/or to run instant quotes .


Input: Can You Sign Up For Medicare For 2014 Now?

Output: Since you are age 70 and still on your spouse 's plan , you can sign up for Medicare Part B during a Special Enrollment Period -LRB- SEP -RRB- , which is ANY time , as long as the current health plan you are on is active . I assume you have already enrolled in Medicare Part A.


Input: Can You Sign Up For Medicare For 2014 Now?

Output: You should sign up for Medicare three months before reaching age 65 , even if you plan to delay receiving retirement benefits because you are working . Otherwise , your Medicare medical insurance , as well as prescription drug coverage , could be delayed , and you could be charged higher premiums . You can sign up for Medicare even if you are not ready to start receiving retirement benefits . You can opt out of receiving cash retirement benefits now once you are in the online application . Then you can apply online for retirement benefits later . Source for above : medicare.gov This also means you can sign up for a Medicare Advantage Plan or a Medicare Supplement and/or a Prescription drug plan . If you have any questions contact me or go to the site


Input: Where Can I Get Medigap Insurance?

Output: You can buy Medigap from a carrier , through the Medicare `` hotline '' , from an agent that comes to your home or you can buy from an agent over the phone and internet . If you buy from a carrier or through Medicare you are giving up personal service . Any questions will be handled by whoever answers the phone . If you do n't mind strangers in your home , you can invite one -LRB- or more -RRB- agents to come to your home and pitch you on the various plans . I have conducted business by phone and internet for almost 20 years . Most folks like to shop in the comfort of their home and the ability to make a decision in their own time frame . Over 400 clients ca n't be all wrong .


Input: Where Can I Get Medigap Insurance?

Output: You can buy a Medigap plan from any number of carriers that offer coverage in your state . Some will buy direct from the Medigap carrier , others will sign up through Medicare . Most will buy direct from a local agent . Most agents will want to come to your home and explain options . Some agents understand you may not feel comfortable inviting strangers in your home and will handle everything by phone , email or USPS .


Input: What Is Lifetime Loading With Health Insurance?

Output: You may have purchased a health insurance policy that was rated up due to a pre-existing condition . This is not uncommon for a carrier to add an extra premium to cover the additional risk . Tobacco loads and additional charges for obesity . Such premium loads are deemed `` lifetime '' but are subject to review if you stop using tobacco or lose weight . Permanent loads for conditions such as arthritis truly are permanent since there is currently no cure for arthritis .


Input: How Much Life Insurance Should I Buy?

Output: You should buy enough life insurance to cover the need for which the life insurance is intended , plus some extra for inflation . E.g. . If you are 60 and would like to have enough life insurance to pay for a $ 10,000 funeral , you might want to purchase a $ 15,000 policy to provide for price increases that could occur between now and the time of your death . This website has a helpful calculator to help determine your life insurance needs : WEBSITELINK . Also , you will need an agent to submit your life insurance application , so why not use your agent to assist you in helping determine how much life insurance to get . You could be surprised at how a good agent can help you save money .


Input: How Much Life Insurance Should I Buy?

Output: The total amount of life insurance should reflect the total financial liability and future obligations of the insured for the benefit of his or her beneficiaries . If those liabilities or obligations are temporary , buy term life insurance if permanent buy permanent life insurance . Most people have both needs , so identifying those items on a data collector will help define the coverage youll need . The most important item of consideration is protecting you earning power through your working years .


Input: Why Would I Be Declined For Life Insurance?

Output: Life insurance is designed for standard risks . That means that the policy premium is based on an average person of a particular age . Since each of us is unique there are a variety of things that an underwriter would consider sufficiently unusual to no longer consider you a standard risk . The underwriter has a series of tables to deal with unusual risks but sometimes the risk exceeds the limits of the tables . Occupation , medical condition , location and family history are some of the more common factors that might cause a company to decline an applicant .


Input: Why Would I Be Declined For Life Insurance?

Output: Life Insurance underwriting is all about mortality or how long are you expected to live . Insurance companies look at your health history as it relates to how it is affecting your life span . The more medical history you have especially some like a critical Illness which recently happened meaning in the last 5-10 years -LRB- a critical illness meaning a heart attack , stroke , cancer & more -RRB- the more likely you will be declined or postponed to allow more time to go by . You have to remember that Life Insurance Companies are corporations which do make large profits . And if someone is truly medically involved they will most likely rate you up -LRB- increase your premium -RRB- or decline you outright . That said , there are a couple companies out there which will give you some death benefit guaranteed for a price . And the benefit will be under $ 50k .


Input: Why Would I Be Declined For Life Insurance?

Output: There are many reasons you can be declined for life insurance , and not all of them are your fault . Sometimes the person providing your quote does not understand your health condition , or is not well acquainted with the stipulations of the products they are selling . Some people applying for life insurance are unaware of what their doctor has written in their medical records , and can get declined for something they did not even know they had . Declines are due to your age , weight , health , or risk factors not meeting the guidelines of the insurance company 's guidelines . Contact an agent who understands your particular health and you will have a less chance of being denied . However , do n't be devastated if you do get declined . There are usually other policies out there , even if they might cost more than the one for which you got declined .


Input: Why Would I Be Declined For Life Insurance?

Output: Great question ! There are many reasons why you might be declined . The most common reasons that someone will be declined will have to do with their health conditions . Being overweight , having had a recent medical issue -LRB- for example , you have a heart attack , become scared , and apply for a policy which is then declined -RRB- , being HIV positive , or are currently waiting for test results or a scheduled surgery - these can all lead to a decline result . So can sending in applications to several companies in a short period of time . They will assume that you have a dire emergency , and will often decline you . If you would like to discuss your specific case , please feel free to contact me , I 'd be happy to help . Thanks for asking !


Input: Can A Green Card Holder Apply For Medicare?

Output: If you are a legal resident of the US and have lived in the US for at least 5 years you can apply for Medicare . You are not entitled to `` free '' Medicare Part A and will be required to pay a monthly premium for Medicare A and B . You should also consider Medigap coverage .


Input: Does Medical Insurance Cover Life Flight?

Output: Life flight coveragewill depend on the medical plan you choose . It is something that is n't required so it can be included , included at a limited benefit or not at all . If this benefit is important to you when purchasing health insurance , it would be a prime quesiton to ask your agent when considering plans . There are also special insurance plans that you can purchase when traveling that would pick up the cost of a life flight . It 's going to depend on your situation and needs .


Input: Why People Don't Buy Long Term Care Insurance?

Output: As with any insurance , people do n't buy Long Term Care Insurance because of cost , because they do n't know if they will use it , if because they assume someone else or the government will take care of it , because they are too busy to think about and apply for it , because they do n't understand it , because they do n't trust it or the people who sell it , because it is unpleasant to consider . When people need that type of care , most of those reasons seem insignificant , in retrospect .


Input: Why People Don't Buy Long Term Care Insurance?

Output: Why do n't more people do n't buy long term care insurance ? Well mainly the reason is they do n't see a need because they have n't really thought about it . Speaking plainly people either `` get '' long term care or they do n't . I ca n't talk someone into purchasing coverage , but usually people come to me seeking long term care . Usually it is because they recently had a family member in a care situation and they simply do n't want that to happen to them . So it is a matter of putting together a plan that is affordable and covers the needs they want .


Input: Why People Don't Buy Long Term Care Insurance?

Output: Many seniors are under the impression that long term care is not affordable , even though most seniors believe that they will need , at minimum , assisted living at home . With human longevity rewriting retirement modeling , long term care insurance is a must for practical defensive planning in your golden years .


Input: Who Should Buy Variable Annuities?

Output: You should consider variable annuities if you have a high tax bracket and have an established risk tolerance for market volatility . Variable annuities accumulated tax deferred and generally offer , for a price , lifetime income at a states rate of return . moving in between investments during the deferral years is an additional advantage .


Input: Does USAA Homeowners Insurance Cover Earthquakes?

Output: Great question ! Most homeowners policies will not include earthquakes in the general body of coverage . Depending upon where you live , assuming that it is a valid concern for you , it will need to be purchased as a rider or separate policy . Floods are another example of the kinds of dangers that are not typically covered that require riders or separate policies . Call your agent to be certain in your specific policy 's case . Thanks for asking !


Input: Does USAA Homeowners Insurance Cover Earthquakes?

Output: Jim is right . You have to buy the coverage as an add-on to your current policy . If you are eligible to buy from USAA , contact them and tell them you want to add earthquake coverage to your policy . Or if you are signed up to their mobile platform , you can add the coverage to your policy yourself . Unless you live in a high earthquake zone , the premium will be very reasonable .


Input: Will A Cat D Car Affect My Insurance?

Output: The short answer is it can . When buying a used car that has undergone some type of damage , the previous insurance company that paid out the claim will rate the damage on a scale of A - F. Here , D means the vehicle was involved in some type of serious collision . Here is the hypothetical where it could seriously effect your insurance . Lets say you buy a category D car . Lets also say you do not have it inspected by a certified dealership or certified mechanic before the purchase . Lets further assume there is chassis that goes unrecorded by a pre-purchase inspection . Now , while driving your new car you get into an accident and make a claim . The insurance company will take the position that any serious damage was there before you bought the car and a result of the previous accident . However , if we remove the assumption that you did not get an inspection , you can show the inspection to your current insurance company and get all of the damage related to your current accident covered by your claim . I hope this makes sense and helps .


Input: Does Long Term Care Insurance Include Assisted Living?

Output: Long Term Care Insurance can include assisted living . Some LTC policies will pay the benefit directly to the insured person when the benefit is triggered . Thus , the insured can use it to purchase the lowest level of care that will allow them to maintain a residence in a facility , or even use it to hire a caregiver in their own home .


Input: Will My Auto Insurance Go Down When I Turn 25?

Output: In Montana the average rate decrease after you turn 25 is $ 200.00 every 6 months depending on the carrier . This does n't factor in if the carrier had a rate increase for your area which then the decrease may not be as much . This also does n't take into consideration your driving history . But in most states and most carriers the rates do decrease after the age of 25


Input: Can I Have Multiple Disability Insurance Policies?

Output: You can have multiple disability policies as long as the total benefit amount can be validated with tax returns and/or W2 information . Keep in mid that you can add retirement contributions to the total earnings amount to increase coverage . And if you 're a business you may be able to add disability overhead insurance as well .


Input: How To Pitch A Variable Annuity?

Output: Why would you want to `` pitch '' a Variable Annuity ? A VA is a useful product for those individuals who want to have upside performance , a basic death benefit , and other living benefits such as Guaranteed Minimum Income Benefits . But PRODUCT , and that includes any of the insurance based products , should be part of an overall consulting relationship where the client understand the risks and rewards of that product . The job of the financial advisor when selling a client a VA is to fact find , determine a client 's risk tolerance , and then provide choices commensurate with a client 's goals . If you do that , a Variable Annuity does n't get pitched , it becomes the product of choice by the client because of the features that it offers .


Input: Can illegal immigrants get car insurance in state of Ohio?

Output: There are loopholes in Ohio law . But generally speaking , if you have a valid drivers license , then you can buy auto insurance . If you do not have a valid drivers license , you can still buy auto insurance if you own a vehicle . But you will have to have a driver on the policy with a valid drivers license , such as a spouse , family member . In this case , you will have to exclude yourself as a driver -LRB- meaning there is no coverage if you drive the vehicle -RRB- . Most auto insurance companies will also require you to designated a licensed driver as the named insured . Drivers can also be insured using a valid foreign drivers license . But not all companies will do this . So you will need to look around a little harder . Also , understand that Ohio has 2 different laws on the table that are completely opposed to one another . So these laws could change drastically in months to come , if either of these proposals go into effect .


Input: Which Term Life Insurance Is Good?

Output: The best type of term life insurance is level term , meaning that the premiums are guaranteed not to go up for the full years of the term . In my opinion , locking in a premium for a longer term -LRB- 20 or 30 years -RRB- is preferable if you have good health when you purchase your policy , or have a chronic condition that could cause you to pay very high rates in the future . Another rule of thumb is to match the term with your need . E.g. . If you have 15 years left on your mortgage , getting 15 year term life insurance is a good choice .


Input: Which Term Life Insurance Is Good?

Output: The best term life policy is the one that is in force on the day that you die . Statistically that definition casts doubt on the value of most term policies since few result in a death claim . The value of term insurance is that you can get a high amount of coverage and have it in force over the years where your death would cause the greatest havoc . It isnt the plan , it isnt the company , however , it is making sure that the policy is in force that makes a policy best .


Input: Is Employer Paid Long Term Care Insurance Taxable?

Output: Long term care insurance provides benefits that extend beyond those paid under Medicare and most private insurance . The benefit is normally paid in months and at a predetermined level . The extremely helpful insurance is sometimes offered as a benefit by employers . If the employer pays the premium , the employer is able to deduct that cost from his own taxes as a reasonable business expense -LRB- employee benefit . -RRB- The employee does not incur any income tax liability as a result . When a benefit is received it comes to the employee free of income tax . There arent any non-discrimination rules that require an employer cover all of the employees . Executives should consider accepting an Employer Paid Long Term Care Insurance policy in exchange for a salary reduction . It is a win situation for the employer and also a win situation for the highly valued employee . This benefit can be combined with a more comprehensive medical health care plan that includes additional benefits such as a comprehensive annual physical examination . This benefit can also be combined with a supplemental disability benefits program for valuable employees . Employer paid long-term care insurance is often combined with retiree medical insurance . Among employers the trend is to reduce or eliminate retiree medical benefits to the rank and file employees . For highly compensated employee there is a trend towards cost sharing arrangements for medical expenses after retirement .


Input: When Does Long Term Care Insurance Kick In?

Output: Similar to disability income insurance , long-term care insurance has an `` elimination period '' . This is like a `` time deductible '' during which one has to pay out-of-pocket for care costs while satisfying the elimination period . Elimination periods are chosen by the applicant and are usually 30 - , 60 - , 90 - , 180 - , or 365-days . The longer the elimination period , the lower the premium.Some carriers provide a 0-day elimination period for home care , either as part of the policy or as an extra-cost add-on rider . If a person goes on claim at home , they may receive approved claim payments -LRB- reimbursement plan -RRB- or cash -LRB- indemnity plan -RRB- as soon as they are declared eligible for payment by the carrier . The contract indicates what the insured needs to submit to the carrier in order to be approved for payment of care costs or to receive a cash payout.There are two ways an elimination period may be satisfied : - Service Days . The insured must pay for care on any given day in order to satisfy one day of the elimination period . For example , the insured has chosen a 90 day elimination period . The insured must pay for long-term care services out-of-pocket for a total of 90 days -LRB- they do not have to be consecutive -RRB- before the elimination period is satisfied . If the person is paying for home care , satisfying the elimination period could take longer than 90 consecutive days if care is not needed on any given day or days . Carriers may have different ways of calculating the fulfillment of the elimination period using the `` service days '' method . - Calendar days . The elimination period is satisfied when a majority of days during the elimination period required care and the insured paid out of pocket . In other words , the insured does not have satisfy the elimination period with days where services were paid out of pocket . Each carrier defines how the elimination period is satisfied using the calendar day method . This method is often offered as an additional cost rider.If a person goes immediately into a full-service nursing facility , the elimination period will be fulfilled as care is received . All facility care will need to be paid out-of-pocket by the insured or the insured 's family during that period of time . It wo n't matter that much which type of elimination fulfillment method is used in such a case unless the person leaves the facility before the elimination period is fully satisfied.Some carriers do not offer a calendar day method for satisfying the elimination period . Some have a choice between the two . Some carriers only have a calendar day elimination period . Once the elimination period is satisfied in full , it does not have to be satisfied again . Since the way a carrier allows for the fulfillment of the elimination period can be the difference in hundreds - if not thousands - of dollars in out-of-pocket payments , the prospect for long-term care insurance should make this a priority question before choosing a carrier . Be sure that you read the section of a specimen or sample policy on `` Payment of Claims '' so that you understand how the proposed insurance company defines `` when long-term insurance kicks in '' .


Input: Do Health Insurance Premiums Qualify As Medical Expenses?

Output: Health insurance premiums can be a tax deductible item if you are self employed or paying for your own insurance and filing a long form . Your tax adviser can tell you if your health insurance premiums are a tax deductible item in your individual circumstance but in most cases they are deductible .


Input: How Much Does Medicare Pay For Funeral Costs?

Output: Medicare does not pay anything for funeral costs . It is important to purchase a final expense policy , either through a private insurance agency -LRB- allowing the benefit to be paid to your beneficiary and the proceeds beyond the cost of your funeral can go to other uses -RRB- or with a funeral home . The benefit of life insurance is paid quickly and tax free , allowing your loved ones to grieve your loss rather than worry about how to pay for your funeral .


Input: What Is A Qualified Health Insurance Plan?

Output: A Qualified Health Insurance Plan is one that is approve for sale on the Health Care Market Place . These Qualified plans will cover fix percent of Medical Cost . Consumers can buy these plans on the exchange during open enrollment period starting on October 1,2013 . After open enrollment they can purchase from Insurance Companies . Your Agent will be happy to help you .


Input: Does Renters Insurance Cover Water Heater Damage?

Output: Renters insurance is designed to cover sudden and accidental losses . The resulting damage from a water heater that suddenly ruptures is a covered loss . The water heater itself is not covered but the resulting water damage to your personal belongings would be covered . Check your deductible before filing a claim to make sure it makes sense to file the claim .


Input: How Do Entrepreneurs Get Health Insurance?

Output: An entrepreneur is often self-employed and carries private health insurance coverage . Typically , they have an HSA or high-deductible plan , although it is not required . An experienced broker can easily assist an entrepreneur with purchasing affordable health care . We know and understand the mostimportantneeds and how to shop for the best plan . If there are family members involves , a comprehensive plan may be the most appropriate .


Input: Can You Switch Auto Insurance Companies In The Middle Of A Policy?

Output: Yes of course . It probably is not the best idea to change if your current carrier is handling a claim for you , but short of that , you are free to switch . I would check with your Insurance Professional to make sure that if you do , you change mid term , your current carrier will cancel the policy flat , that is will not impose a preterm cancellation surcharge .


Input: Can You Switch Auto Insurance Companies In The Middle Of A Policy?

Output: Absolutely . There are two parties when it comes to an insurance policy . You , the policy holder or insured , and the insurance company . By law , if you are paying your premiums the insurance company must keep your policy active -LRB- there are a few other pieces to this but unnecessary for your question -RRB- . You , on the other hand , can change or cancel your policy at any time . Make sure you consider a few key items . Will my coverage change by making this move ? Check some of the `` bells and whistles '' that you may lose or gain . Will you lose discounts on other policies you have ? Make sure your lien holder -LRB- the bank -RRB- is notified of the change . Work with a licensed professional to help make the transition as smooth as possible . People change insurance companies all the time . Make sure it 's a good move for you . After you 've done that , you can make a move at any time !


Input: Is Ira A Qualified Retirement Plan?

Output: Yes , IRA 's are considered qualified retirement plans . Basically , qualified simply means that the government has established certain laws governing their tax favored status and rules about how those funds must be withdrawn . IRA 's are sold both through banks and insurance companies . Insurance companies use an annuity to be the vehicle through which the IRA is funded . A traditional IRA allows you to deduct your contributions from your taxes up to the limits specified by the Government . A Roth IRA allows you to pay the taxes in the accumulation phase but are tax favored when you begin taking withdrawals . See your tax advisor for details on how an IRA will work for you , then when you are ready , a good retirement planner can help you set things up in the best way for you .


Input: Is Ira A Qualified Retirement Plan?

Output: An IRA -LRB- individual retirement arrangements -RRB- is a qualified plan under ERISA . IRAs are tax deductible , accumulate tax deferred and distribute taxable income at ordinary income tax rates . Distributions before age 59 could trigger a 10 % penalty in addition to the ordinary income taxes . Traditional investments like mutual funds and annuities can be placed inside an IRA . Life insurance in an IRA is prohibited .


Input: What Is The Difference Between Medigap And Medicare Advantage?

Output: Basically , Medigap is private insurance that supplements original Medicare -LRB- Part A and Part B -RRB- . Original Medicare requires the Medicare beneficiary to pay specified deductibles and coinsurance , and Medigap -LRB- Medicare supplement -RRB- policies are designed to cover some or all of these amounts . Medicare Advantage -LRB- MA -RRB- Plans are private insurance plans that take the place of original Medicare -LRB- Part A and Part B -RRB- , and often include Part D drug coverage as well . MA Plans may or may not require a monthly premium , and specify plan benefits , care requirements and cost sharing which may differ from original Medicare . In order to fully understand differences and obtain a Medicare plan best suited to your needs , it is advisable to meet with a qualified senior market insurance agent/agency with experience in Medicare insurance plans .


Input: How Much Life Insurance Should I Get?

Output: You should own enough life insurance to protect your beneficiaries from financial exposure due to all indebtedness , future obligations like college education , weddings and retirement as well as making a difference to your children , grandchildren and charities . But you also want to cover your earning power over your lifetime .


Input: How Much Life Insurance Should I Get?

Output: That is going to depend on many factors , like your income level , your debt level , your health , your premium threshold , and marital status just to name a few . The best way to determine the amount of coverage you should apply forwould be to sit down with a local agent and discuss your needs and wants for coverage so that they can help you determine what would be right for your situation .


Input: What Is The Difference Between Medicare And Medicaid Services?

Output: This is a good Question . Medicare was designed for individuals 65 and older or individuals under 65 with certain disabilities . Made up of part a and b. Medicaid is income based , also known as public aid and is more intended for people with very low income . Medicaid pays for most medical services .


Input: Does Health Insurance Pay For Hearing Aids?

Output: Some health insurance plans will pay for basic hearing aids . Plans that do cover hearing aids usually have preferred providers you must use , and there is a cap on how much they will pay for a hearing aid . Be sure to read your policy carefully , and ask your agent or carrier about how the hearing aid benefit works .


Input: Is A Colonoscopy Covered By Medicare?

Output: Medicare Part B will cover a colonoscopy performed once every 10 years for persons of low risk -LRB- but not within 4 years after a sigmoidoscopy -RRB- . Persons at high risk for colorectal cancer can have a colonoscopy paid for by Medicare every 2 years . A Medicare Advantage Plan may cover colonoscopy more often .


Input: Does Medicare Cover A Cpap Machine?

Output: CPAP machines are used to treat some forms of sleep apnea . Before Medicare will authorize a CPAP your doctor must submit a CMN -LRB- certificate of medical need -RRB- . You must have had a sleep study conducted by a Medicare approved facility and you must have had training on the use and care of the CPAP .


Input: Does An Employer Have To Offer A Retirement Plan?

Output: There is no mandate requiring companies to offer employer sponsored retirement plans , qualified or non-qualified . Most small businesses offer qualified retirement plans as an employee recruitment and retention strategy . Offering a qualified retirement plan like a 410 -LRB- k -RRB- is a significant benefit for employees , especially if the employer matches some of the employees contributions .