Securing adequate healthcare coverage is paramount, especially as one approaches retirement. Many people above 65 consider Medicare, the federal health insurance program for this age group. While Medicare offers numerous benefits, the enrollment process can often be daunting and complex. Consequently, one can overlook critical aspects, leading to financial strain and delays in accessing healthcare services. Here are a few common mistakes one must avoid when signing up for Medicare. Not signing up at the right time One of the most critical mistakes to avoid when enrolling for Medicare is not doing so at the right time. The initial enrollment period (IEP) for individuals about to turn 65 begins three months before their birth month and ends three months after that month. In other words, one has an IEP of seven months. If a person fails to enroll during this period, they still have a chance to sign up during the general enrollment period (GEP), which is from January 1 to March 31. However, this can lead to higher premiums and delays in accessing necessary healthcare services. Moreover, after missing out on the IEP, individuals would have to wait until the next GEP, leaving them without coverage for an extended duration.

A life insurance policy is a tool of investment that covers the insured person’s life and protects their loved ones from major financial losses in the event of the insured’s demise. Returns from these policies help provide financial security and pay for medical or other expenses and debts. However, there are several common mistakes people make when getting a life insurance policy. This article explores seven such pitfalls and how to avoid them. Waiting too long to buy One of the most common mistakes when it comes to life insurance is waiting too long to buy. People often wait until they start a family before investing in life insurance policies. However, with age, premiums begin to rise significantly. One is also at risk of developing serious health conditions that may further increase premiums or may not be covered by one’s insurance policy. To avoid running into these pitfalls, it is best to buy a life insurance policy as early as possible. Buying the wrong type of policy The buyer can choose between different types of life insurance policies among two main categories – term life and permanent life insurance. While both of these provide life cover and protect the insured’s loved ones in their absence, their modes of functioning are slightly different.

Health insurance plans usually do not cover the cost of dental treatments, so people must buy a separate policy to care for their teeth. While the market has many dental plans, choosing one can be tricky. Before deciding, individuals must consider several factors, like coverage limits and policy terms. Avoiding these seven common mistakes when choosing a dental plan can simplify the process and ensure one gets a good deal! Ignoring the basics One of the most common mistakes people make is ignoring the basics. What should my dental plan cover? Knowing the answer can prevent individuals from signing up for policies that cost too much but offer little value. Unlike health insurance, dental plans do not cover many expensive treatments. Instead, they tend to follow a 100-80-50 coverage breakdown: 100% of preventive care coverage (like exams, X-rays, and cleanings) 80% coverage of basic procedures (like fillings, root canals, and extractions) 50% of major procedures (like crowns, bridges, and implants) Any other expense must be paid out of pocket. However, many policies have an annual out-of-pocket maximum, which can help lower the cost of treatment. Rushing through enrolment Far too often, people blindly choose the plan their friends and family recommend and rush through the enrolment process.