The vast majority of the millions of individuals in the market for Affordable Care Act (ACA) health coverage lack critical information necessary to make informed and confident decisions about their insurance in 2025. In fact, according to a new report, uncertainty about the deadline to enroll and lack of awareness about important changes impacting their premiums and coverage are common.
Those troubling findings, along with others, are highlighted in the "2025 Open Enrollment Survey" report from portable benefits technology provider Stride.
The 2024 open enrollment season begins Nov. 1 and is a critical time for more than 60 million independent U.S. workers, as well as millions of small business employees who do not receive health insurance benefits from their employers.
According to Stride's research, based on a survey of 1,700 workers without access to employer-based health insurance, 82% do not know the correct deadline to enroll in health insurance, while 73% of those currently enrolled do not plan to re-shop their plan and/or are completely unsure if they should. While liking their current coverage is the main reason for that, premiums, pricing, and coverage can change significantly from year to year.
Average premiums are predicted to increase by 7% this year, continuing a three-year trend. This could lead to unnecessary cost increases or loss of savings for millions of people who don't plan to shop for a new plan, according to Stride officials — highlighting the urgent need for better education and engagement.
Other key takeaways from Stride's research:
Most people (78%) are overwhelmed and frustrated by the health insurance process.
Confusion in comparing plans tops the list, followed by the belief that health insurance is too expensive. Workers between ages 46 and 64 feel the most overwhelmed by the open enrollment process.
An information gap is fueling decision-making anxiety. Nearly 75% of workers surveyed do not believe they have enough information to make a confident decision. The youngest demographic (ages 26 to 30) feels especially undereducated about benefits — largely because they do not have an employer to rely on for accurate information.
Uninsured people still cite affordability concerns. More than 10% of research participants are currently uninsured and plan to remain so, citing affordability or confusion around the enrollment process.
Health care policies remain unclear in the 2024 presidential election. More than 55% of respondents say that health care is an issue that will influence how they vote in the election, yet 53% don't know enough about each major-party candidate's health care policies.
"With rising premiums and the election impact unknown, now more than ever, non-benefited workers need a trusted resource to access affordable health care," Doug Myrick, Managing Partner and co-founder, said in a statement promoting the launch of his agency's All-in-One open enrollment hub.
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As a homeowner with a short-term rental property, finding ways to cut costs without compromising guest satisfaction is essential. One significant expense you can eliminate is the cable subscription. By switching to Amazon Firesticks, you can provide your guests with a fantastic TV experience while saving money. Here's how to make the transition and enjoy the benefits.
Why Cut the Cable?
Cable subscriptions are expensive and often underutilized by guests who prefer streaming their favorite shows and movies. By eliminating the cable subscription, you can save a substantial amount on your monthly expenses, making your rental property more profitable.
Can you imagine having a 6-bedroom house with 8 TVs and paying for 8 additional cable boxes at $11 each per month? You can save a lot by removing them and using smart TVs or Firestick instead.
The Benefits of Firestick
Firesticks are an excellent alternative to cable, offering numerous benefits:
1. Cost-Effective: Firesticks are affordable, with no monthly subscription fees. You only pay for the device and your internet service.
2. Variety of Content: Firestick offers access to thousands of free and paid streaming channels, including popular services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more.
3. User-Friendly: Firesticks are easy to set up and use, ensuring a smooth experience for your guests.
Setting Up Firesticks in Your Rental Property
Here's a simple guide to transitioning from cable to Firestick:
1. Purchase Firesticks: Buy a Firestick for each TV in your rental property. They are available at most electronics stores and online retailers.
2. Install the Devices: Plug the Firestick into the HDMI port on your TV and connect it to a power source. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the device.
3. Connect to the Internet: Ensure your property has a reliable internet connection. Connect the Firestick to your Wi-Fi network during setup.
4. Add Streaming Channels: Preload popular streaming channels on the Firesticks to make it easy for guests. Include free options like Pluto TV and Tubi, as well as popular paid services.
5. Provide Instructions: Leave clear instructions for your guests on how to use the Firestick, including how to log into their streaming accounts and navigate the interface.
Enhancing the Guest Experience
Switching to Firesticks can enhance the guest experience in several ways:
1. Easy Navigation: Firestick's intuitive interface makes it easy for guests to find and stream content.
2. Consistent Quality: With a good internet connection, guests can enjoy high-quality streaming without the issues often associated with cable.
Conclusion
Cutting the cable subscription and adding Firesticks to your short-term rental property is a smart move for homeowners looking to save money and enhance guest satisfaction. The initial investment in Firestick devices is quickly offset by the monthly savings on cable, and your guests will appreciate the modern, flexible viewing options. Embrace the change and enjoy the benefits of a more cost-effective and guest-friendly entertainment solution in your rental property.
If you have any questions or need assistance with the transition, feel free to reach out. We're here to help you make the most of your rental property!
By adopting this simple change, you can reduce costs and provide a better experience for your guests. It's a win-win situation that makes your property more appealing and your business more profitable.
Most people find dental insurance plans confusing, and you're not alone!
When shopping for a dental plan, you'll likely encounter the term "dental benefits" more frequently than "dental insurance." This distinction arises because, although commonly referred to as insurance, dental plans function differently from other healthcare policies. This often leads to confusion and frustration when patients discover that their dental plan does not cover procedures in the same way that their health insurance does for other medical needs.
Here's the key difference: an insurance plan is designed to reimburse you for a loss. For example, car insurance compensates you for the value of your car if it's totaled in an accident, and your health insurance covers the cost of your hospital stay if you're injured in that same accident. In such cases, the insurer bears the risk.
On the other hand, a benefit plan is specifically set up to cover certain costs. Your dental benefit plan may fully cover some procedures and partially cover others. Additionally, you might find that certain procedures recommended by your dentist are not covered at all, highlighting the importance of checking with your plan administrator regarding coverage.
Maximums: This refers to the maximum amount a plan will allocate for dental care within a specified benefit period (usually one calendar year). After reaching this cap, any treatment costs incurred for the remainder of the period will be your responsibility.
Maximums typically range from $500 to $2,000 a year.
Deductible: Similar to auto insurance, a dental plan may include a predefined amount you must pay before benefits take effect.
Most deductibles fall between $25 and $100 per person.
Coinsurance: In fee-for-service benefit plans, coverage involves a predefined percentage of the treatment cost, leaving you responsible for the remaining amount. Coinsurance is the portion you pay after meeting your deductible.
With most plans, preventive services (such as cleanings, X-rays, & exams) are covered at 80-100%, basic services (like restorations/fillings & extractions) at 50-80%, and major services (including crowns, bridges & root canals) at 25-50%.
Exclusions and Limitations: While dental plans can alleviate the financial impact of treatment, they usually don’t cover every dental need. Most plans limit the number of cleanings per year, and some may not cover certain procedures, even if recommended by your dentist. It's crucial to carefully understand any limitations or exclusions before settling on a plan.
Understanding Dental Networks
A dental network consists of dentists contracted with your dental insurance carrier, who agree to provide services at a set fee. A dentist within this network is considered participating or in-network. Fees charged by these dentists often reflect a "discount" or "network savings."
When you see a dentist who is "In-Network" or a participating provider, they agree to accept the insurance fee, even if it's lower than their standard charge, with the difference written off. If you choose a dentist outside the network, you will pay the difference.
Wrapping Up:
While dental insurance can seem complicated at first, knowing these key points can help you make smarter choices about your dental care. One additional tip we have is that you should start with your preferred dentist and ask what insurance they accept and prefer before you buy a plan. The best dental plan in the world won't matter if your dentist doesn't accept that insurance.
Sunscreen is not just for summer or going to the pool, it should be worn anytime your child goes outside – regardless of the season or the weather. Apply sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to protect their skin. Make putting on sunscreen part of your child's everyday routine – just like brushing teeth, making the bed or getting dressed.
2. Reapply sunscreen regularly
Put more sunscreen on your child about every two hours if they are outside for an extended period of time – or sooner if they've been playing in water or sweating.
3. Protect against UVA and UVB rays
Look for broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect against UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can cause tanning, aging, leathery skin and skin cancer including melanoma. UVB rays can cause sunburns, skin cancer and increased moles in some individuals. See more tips for choosing sunscreen for kids.
4. Use sun protection clothing
Dress your children in a variety of available UV protective clothing that can be worn in and out of the pool or water. Protective clothing also includes wide-brimmed hats, long sleeved cotton shirts and sunglasses.
5. Wear UV protection sunglasses
UV rays can harm your child's eyes and cause a variety of eye conditions. Look for sunglasses that block as close to 100% of UV rays as possible.
6. Stay inside or in the shade during peak hours
Avoid activities during peak sunshine hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) when possible.
7. Be mindful of skin sensitivity
Some children's skin is more sensitive than that of others. Children under four and those with fair skin have a higher risk of getting sunburns. If your child is taking medication, make sure you know the side effects. Some acne medications cause increased skin sensitivity. It is best to limit your child's exposure to the sun and take special precautions if they have sensitive skin.
8. Perform skin checks and monitor moles
Perform a full body skin exam at home at least once a month in order to stay aware of any changes to your child's moles. Look for changes in color, shape or surface texture. If you spot any of these changes, call your child's doctor.
By helping your child develop regular skin protection habits, you can help reduce their risk of skin cancer and make sure they safely enjoy the sun.
As we age, maintaining an active lifestyle becomes increasingly important. Regular exercise can significantly enhance the quality of life for seniors by improving physical health, mental well-being, and social connections. Here are essential tips for seniors looking to embark on a fitness journey, tailored to ensure safety, enjoyment, and lasting health benefits.
1. Start with a Health Check-up
Before beginning any new exercise routine, it’s crucial for seniors to consult with a healthcare provider. This step ensures that the chosen activities are safe and suitable for their health status and physical condition.
2. Focus on Four Main Areas
A balanced exercise program for seniors should include activities that cover four main areas: endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. Integrating these components can help prevent falls, improve mobility, and increase overall health.
Endurance
Incorporate aerobic activities that increase heart rate and breathing. Walking, swimming, and cycling are excellent low-impact options that can be adjusted according to fitness levels.
Strength
Strength training helps maintain muscle mass, which naturally decreases with age. Use light weights or resistance bands, focusing on major muscle groups. Exercises like squats, wall push-ups, and seated rows are beneficial.
Balance
Balance exercises are key in preventing falls, a common concern for seniors. Tai chi, standing on one foot, and heel-to-toe walks are effective practices that can be done at home with minimal equipment.
Flexibility
Stretching exercises enhance flexibility, promoting ease of movement and reducing the risk of injury. Gentle yoga or basic stretches targeting all major muscle groups should be part of the routine.
3. Gradual Progression
Start slowly, especially if you’re new to exercise or resuming after a break. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of workouts to avoid overexertion and injuries.
4. Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to your body’s signals. If you experience pain or discomfort beyond normal muscle fatigue, take a break and adjust your exercise plan as needed.
5. Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Proper hydration and nutrition are essential, particularly around workout times. Drink water before, during, and after exercise, and eat a balanced diet to fuel your body.
6. Make It Social
Exercise can be more enjoyable and motivating when done with others. Joining a group class or walking club can provide social interaction and accountability.
7. Incorporate Technology
Use fitness trackers or apps to monitor progress and stay motivated. Many devices offer features tailored to seniors, such as fall detection and activity reminders.
8. Create a Routine
Establishing a regular exercise schedule helps build a lasting habit. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week, as recommended by health authorities.
9. Find Activities You Enjoy
The key to a sustainable exercise regimen is enjoyment. Explore different activities to find what you like best, whether it’s dancing, gardening, or swimming.
10. Be Patient and Positive
Finally, approach your fitness journey with patience and a positive mindset. Celebrate small victories and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Remember, the goal is to enhance your health and well-being, not to compete or compare yourself to others.
By following these tips, seniors can safely enjoy the myriad benefits of regular exercise, from improved strength and balance to enhanced mood and cognitive function. Always remember, it’s never too late to start, and every step towards a more active lifestyle counts towards achieving a healthier, more vibrant life.
The right Medicare Supplement plan for you is one that gives you access to your doctors and provides comprehensive coverage on the gaps in Medicare.
As long as the provider accepts Medicare, they must accept your Supplement plan regardless of the insurance carrier.
Consider your risk tolerance and the monthly cost to help you determine which plan may be best for you.
Findingthe best Medicare supplement planfor you is far more simple than you might think. Want the secret to choosing the perfect Medicare supplement plan for you?
I’m here to help you with that.
The best Medicare Supplement plan is the one that gives you access to your chosen providers and covers the gaps in Medicare that you are most concerned about paying. It also offers a competitive monthly premium compared to other plans in your area.
Many times when a person is new to Medicare, he or she feels overwhelmed by all the choices. In this post, we’ll walk you through a series of simple questions you can ask yourself that will help lead you to the best Medicare supplement plan for you.
In this article, we’ll be concentrating on Medicare supplement plans, also called Medigap plans. These plans get 5 stars in my book for a variety of reasons.
If you are unsure of the difference between Medicare supplements and Medicare Advantage plans, which are very different, read this post first and then return to this page to read the information below.
Which Medicare plans does your doctor take?
In my experience, the best Medicare supplement coverage for you is usually one that you know your doctors will accept. Most people don’t want to part with their trusted providers.
Fortunately, this is pretty easy with Medicare supplements. As long as your doctor accepts Original Medicare, he will accept any Medicare supplement. It doesn’t matter if that is an Aetna Medicare supplement or a Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare supplement or a Kmart Special Medicare supplement.
Clearly, I’m kidding on that last one, but I hope you get the point.
The chances that your doctor accepts Original Medicare are very good. There are over 800,000 providers on Medicare’s network. The Kaiser Family Foundation reported in 2015 that more than 9 in 10 primary care physicians accept Medicare. You can use your coverage anywhere around the nation without referrals.
How to Ask Your Doctor if He Takes Your Supplement
A quick phone call to your doctor’s office can help you confirm that a Medicare supplement (as opposed to a Medicare Advantage plan) would work for you.
Simply ask: Does Dr. Smith accept Medicare? Most of the time you will hear yes.
Sometimes you might find a doctor whose practice is full. It’s not that he doesn’t like your Medigap plan. It’s that he has too many Medicare patients. I have found that if you’ve been treated with a doctor prior to age 65, he will usually continue to see you once you transition to Medicare as your primary insurance.
An Important Distinction Between Medicare Plans
The best Medicare plan is always one that will allow you to see your favorite doctors.
If you are still trying to decide between Medicare supplements and Medicare Advantage plans, you can also ask whether the doctor participates in any Medicare Advantage plans, and get a list of those plans.
Verify what you find out by checking each Medicare plan’s provider directory. Ensure that the directory shows that doctor in the network. Cross-referencing this information against the plan directory is so important.
All too often we have people contact our agency after they tried to do this on their own. Inevitably they find out too late that the person in the doctor’s office gave them incorrect information.
Which Companies Get the Best Medicare Supplement Reviews?
Often our clients ask us who offers the best Medicare supplement plans in terms of financial ratings or customer service. This will vary based on the state you live in as not all carriers do business in every state.
Some of the carriers that offer popular Medicare supplement plans are:
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna
Manhattan Life
Mutual of Omaha
Transamerica
United Healthcare
Which insurance companies offer the best Medicare supplement plans?
I give all Medicare supplements an A+ when it comes to claims payment. You can read more about my opinion on this in my blog post called Medicare Plan F Reviews.
When it comes to customer service though, you will get that from your agent or Medicare insurance broker. When you have a problem, you will call and speak with your agent directly instead of calling some big insurance company call center.
A good Medicare insurance broker will have a Client Service Team in place to handle back-end services for you. This might include helping you with Medicare appeals if something gets denied, or conferencing in your pharmacy if there is an issue with getting a prescription filled. These are things that the Medicare supplement company definitely will NOT do for you.
Your own agent or broker will always be more helpful than a nameless, faceless customer service representative at your insurance carrier.
We work with all the top Medicare supplement plans in every market. We can tell you which of those makes the most sense for you based on the data we have.
What is Your Risk Tolerance?
Our agency often works with clients who helped their aging parents through a few illnesses. On such a client, Sue told me that her mother had battled lymphoma for many years and went through several rounds of chemotherapy.
She was astonished at the size of the medical bills they received and even further astonished to find that her mother’s Medicare supplement had covered every dime. Because of this, she knew she wanted the same kind of coverage.
What Sue said was “If I am sick, I want to be able to concentrate on getting well. I don’t want to be worrying about how many bills are accumulating in my mailbox.”
So for this client, the natural choice was a Medicare supplement Plan F, which has very predictable benefits and covers comprehensively. With Plan F, Sue would have nothing out of pocket at the doctor’s office or hospital.
On the other hand, if Sue preferred a lower monthly premium in exchange for her covering some of her own deductibles and copays, then the best Medicare Supplement might be a Plan N. There are 10 different standardized Medicare supplement plans to choose from. You can find one that covers enough for your comfort and peace of mind.
So ask yourself how much risk tolerance you have, and that should lead you toward one choice or another. This is the way we identify the best Medicare supplement plans for our clients here.
And that leads us to the next question regarding the best Medicare supplement plans, which is:
Which is the Best Medicare Supplemental Insurance for Your Budget?
Living on a fixed income is harder than most people think. You are still subject to inflation like everyone else, but the money you have coming in from Social Security and your investments has to last you for the rest of your life. Sometimes this single factor will make the decision for you.
Your budget is a consideration in identifying the best Medicare plan for you.
For a person turning 65 in Texas, you might expect to pay around $150/month for a Medicare supplement Plan F. It varies by zip code, gender, and age, but let’s use this number as an example. If your budget includes $1800/year for medical insurance, then a Medicare supplement Plan F provides great coverage.
If spending $1800/year leaves you with very little for life’s other expenses, you might be more comfortable with a Plan G or Plan N, or even a High-Deductible Plan F.
You can read more of my tips for saving money on Medigap in this Forbes article.
Get the Best Medicare Supplement for YOU
These are the things we discuss with our own clients when helping them determine the best Medicare supplement plans for them. An insurance agency like Boomer Benefits can help you answer these questions and then find the best Medigap plans that meet YOUR needs based on your answers.
If you enjoyed this blog post and learned from it, give us a try so that you can experience all the great back-end policy services that you’ll get. This includes free claims support and assistance with evaluating which Part D drug plan offers your medications. We also provide annual rate comparisons to ensure you stay with the most cost-effective policy in your area. With all of our experience, we can confidently say we speak Medicare and will continue to help you navigate through it.
The right Medicare supplement for you is out there! Get in touch with us for help finding it today.
Key Takeaways
All providers that accept Medicare must accept your Medigap plan.
You can consider the carrier rating, monthly premium, and risk tolerance to help you determine what will be the best Supplement plan for your needs.
For many seniors, retirement
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Downsizing can mean moving to
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Emotional preparedness: Downsizing
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Financial considerations:
Downsizing can have economic benefits, such as reducing living expenses or
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It’s essential to consider
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Practical steps:
Begin by decluttering and deciding what to keep, sell, donate, or discard.
When choosing a new place to
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Legal and estate planning:
Downsizing is also an opportune time to review your estate plan.
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As the much-anticipated spring break approaches, many of us are gearing up for a trip or memorable adventure. Whether you are planning a beach retreat, a hiking expedition, or an international escapade, it’s crucial to consider the importance of insurance in safeguarding your spring break experience.
Travel insurance is a comprehensive solution that covers a range of unexpected events during your trip.
It typically includes coverage for trip cancellations, delays, lost luggage, and even emergency medical expenses.
Before purchasing travel insurance, carefully review the policy to understand the specific coverage it offers.
Securing Your Residence with Homeowners Insurance
While you embark on your spring break journey, don’t forget to ensure the security of your home through homeowners insurance.
Homeowners insurance protects against losses or damages to your property, including theft and vandalism.
Some policies may offer additional coverage for personal belongings that you take with you on your trip.
Make sure your policy is up-to-date and covers the duration of your absence.
Auto Insurance: A Must for Road Trips
For those planning road trips during spring break, auto insurance becomes a paramount consideration. Safeguarding your vehicle and ensuring your peace of mind on the road is crucial.
Verify that your auto insurance policy is current and provides coverage for the specific journey you are planning.
Roadside assistance coverage can be particularly beneficial during road trips, offering support for unexpected vehicle breakdowns.
Familiarize yourself with the details of your coverage, including deductibles and limits.
Prioritizing Your Well-Being with Health Insurance
Your health should always be a top priority, even when on vacation. Having adequate health insurance coverage ensures that you are prepared for unforeseen medical circumstances.
Confirm that your health insurance plan extends coverage to the destination of your spring break trip.
Consider supplemental travel health insurance for added protection, especially for international travel.
Keep a copy of your insurance card and any relevant contact information in case of emergencies.
General Tips for a Secure Spring Break
In addition to specific insurance considerations, here are some general tips to enhance your safety during spring break:
Inform a trusted friend or family member about your travel plans and provide them with emergency contacts.
Keep important documents, such as insurance policies, identification, and medical information, organized and easily accessible.
Be mindful of any travel advisories or health alerts related to your destination.
Spring into Safety
As you gear up for your spring break adventure, remember that our agents are here to help. Whether you have questions about your existing policies or need assistance in acquiring additional coverage, our agency is dedicated to ensuring your peace of mind. Reach out to us to discuss your specific needs and make the most of your travel plans.
Explore your spring break with confidence, knowing that you have taken the necessary steps to secure your journey. Our experienced agents are committed to making your spring break a worry-free experience tailored to your unique requirements. Prioritize your safety and well-being by partnering with us for comprehensive insurance solutions.
