9 common annuity mistakes and how to avoid them

9 common annuity mistakes and how to avoid them

An annuity is a contract that binds the insurer to make a series of payments at regular intervals. They can be a valuable investment tool, especially for one’s retirement. However, people may make many mistakes when signing up for these, causing them to pay big sums in interest or deal with losses. Read on to find out more about nine common annuity mistakes people make and how to avoid them. Choosing the wrong insurance provider/annuity Investors can choose between five basic annuities – fixed dollar amount, inflation-adjusted, variable, guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit, and guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefits. Each of these has its own pros and cons, and choosing the right type is important to meet one’s financial or investment goals. Additionally, investors also need to pay close attention to the insurance company. These policies must only be purchased from highly reputable companies with a solid financial strength rating. Overlooking the costs Annuities are an expensive investment; failing to pay attention to the fine print when signing up could result in major losses. Just like other retirement tools, annuities too have associated fees, charges, and commissions. Most commonly, these include mortality and expense fees, administrative fees, surrender charges, investment management fees, and charges for optional riders.
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9 common mistakes to avoid while buying term insurance

9 common mistakes to avoid while buying term insurance

Term insurance provides a financial cushion for the family.  If  the policyholder passes away during the specified term , the beneficiary receives a death benefit .  This amount is usually not taxable and provides the family with financial stability and comfort in the long run. But, choosing an insurance plan requires research. One must pick the right provider, choose the necessary benefits, and read the terms carefully. One must also avoid making mistakes when buying term insurance. Not buying the right policy at the right  time While term insurance premiums remain consistent across the policy duration, the amount is calculated based on the policyholder’s age when applying. That’s why one should consider buying early. It results in a low annual expense across the policy term and higher savings. Still, that does not mean individuals must invest in a term insurance plan immediately after they start earning. Buying a policy is advisable only if a person has financial dependents or has taken a huge loan. Buying for a short duration While buying term insurance is a wise decision, one must choose the tenure carefully. Many experts recommend buying a long-term policy that remains active into one’s golden years. Sure, the shorter-term plans have affordable premiums, but the amount increases when renewing the plan down the line.
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8 mistakes to avoid when picking a dental plan

8 mistakes to avoid when picking a dental plan

One may often address every aspect of their overall health but forget to account for dental needs. However, oral health needs to be at the forefront of one’s healthcare goals, and one should be more focused on getting an ideal dental plan to suit their needs. Since this might be a new expenditure avenue for many, it is crucial to avoid these eight errors that may result in spending extra on a dental insurance package. Making an impulse purchase Most individuals may rush their decisions because they are short on time. In the case of dental insurance, making an impulse purchase could result in buying an unnecessary plan. The individual should ensure they take their time to understand each aspect of an insurance plan before deciding. Additionally, one should never pick up the first plan they find online. An individual should compare multiple insurance options before narrowing it down to a single preference. Going for the lower rate The rate of dental coverage can play a massive role in one’s decision-making process. While a low-premium may cost less in terms of coverage, the individual might need to pay higher amounts for complex dental treatments like implants, braces, and bridges. A lower rate may also mean some services are excluded from overall coverage.
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5 things term insurance does not cover

5 things term insurance does not cover

Insurance plans provide financial support in the event of illness, injury, loss of work, theft, loss of life, and property damage. One of the most common types of insurance policies sold in the country is term life insurance—a type of life insurance that offers coverage for a specified period. With this plan, the benefits are typically provided to the nominees of the policyholder. But this type of plan may not cover everything.  Term insurance coverage Term life insurance is one of the most popular and straightforward insurance plans. It is less expensive than whole life insurance as it only lasts for a fixed period, usually between 10 and 30 years. While the exact terms can vary for each policy, term insurance typically covers d eath due to natural causes,  accidents, or illnesses. Term insurance exclusions While term insurance is known for offering decent financial coverage, its scope can be limited, covering only specific events or conditions listed in the policy document. The amount of coverage can also be limited at times. There are many things that a term insurance policy may not cover, and they are called exclusions. One should know about these exclusions while signing up for an insurance plan to avoid getting their claims rejected later.
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8 things to consider when choosing a Medicare plan

8 things to consider when choosing a Medicare plan

Medicare benefits many people by helping them meet their healthcare expenses.  But   providers  offer multiple plans with unique features, making choosing difficult.  A good way to select a Medicare plan is to research the options well and become familiar with their coverage limits, add-ons, terms and conditions, and other aspects. One must take time and never decide in a hurry. An individual will find that making a choice is much easier after adequate research. Costs When choosing a Medicare plan, one should understand its associated costs, such as premiums, deductibles, and, most importantly, out-of-pocket expenses. Most plans cover a portion of the expenses for doctor visits or hospital stays and require the policyholder to pay the rest.  So, one  should consider whether there are any yearly limits on out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare services.  Usually, there is no yearly limit on paying out of pocket unless an individual has supplemental coverage, such as Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap). Medicare Advantage typically has a yearly limit on what one pays out of pocket for services covered by Medicare Part A and Part B. Once the plan’s limit is reached, one will not need to pay anything for Part A and Part B services for the rest of the year.
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5 lesser-known features of term insurance

5 lesser-known features of term insurance

Term insurance is just like life insurance. The only major difference is that while life insurance covers the policyholder all their life, term insurance protects for a fixed duration. If the policyholder or the insured passes away within that period, the insurance company pays the beneficiaries the claim amount. Term insurance plans are available nationwide at several insurance companies and financial institutions, so one can easily sign up for them. Why purchase a term insurance plan? Like permanent life insurance, term insurance offers several benefits, making it a good investment option. The biggest reason to buy a plan is that it provides financial stability to the family and dependents after the policyholder’s passing. All one has to do is visit an insurance provider, choose a suitable policy, and pay a regular premium. Then, in case of an untimely death, the company will compensate the beneficiaries. A policyholder can rest assured that their family will continue to have access to finances and maintain their standard of living after their passing. The loved ones can use the money to pay their daily expenses, like groceries and utility bills, and even pay off debt. This peace of mind is why many get a term insurance plan.
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10 reasons to consider buying whole life insurance

10 reasons to consider buying whole life insurance

Getting whole life insurance is a good idea because it secures the family’s financial future. When the policyholder passes, the insurance company provides the beneficiaries with a death benefit. They can use it to pay funeral expenses, settle debts, and cover daily living expenses. These policies are easily available, so anyone can find them. Those unsure about buying whole life insurance can research and learn its benefits to make an informed decision. What is whole life insurance? Whole life insurance is a type of life insurance designed to cover the policyholder for life. In other words, it protects people for as long as they live. Of course, one must pay premiums to avail of this service. The premiums for whole life insurance are usually fixed, but it is best to confirm that with the provider. Some plans may have variable premiums that go up or down over time. Death benefits are paid to the beneficiary upon the policyholder’s passing. Why purchase whole life insurance? Whole life insurance is among the most popular insurance policies. It offers many benefits that attract people, such as lifetime coverage, tax benefits, and, most importantly, peace of mind. Here are some reasons why purchasing whole life insurance is a great idea:
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Whole life insurance – 6 key features to know

Whole life insurance – 6 key features to know

Life insurance serves two purposes: providing financial protection to the insured and their loved ones and accumulating savings. One can consider opting for a whole life insurance policy, a type of permanent life insurance, which means the coverage lasts throughout the insured’s life. This is different from term insurance, which offers coverage for a fixed period. If considering buying whole life insurance, learning about its features can help one make an informed decision.  Key features 1. Permanent coverage Whole life insurance lasts throughout the life of the insured, in contrast to temporary life insurance, like term life insurance, which expires after 10, 20, or 30 years. The purpose of whole life insurance is to align with the policyholder’s long-term financial plans, like inheritance planning and charity contributions following the policyholder’s death. Also, certain types of whole life insurance policies allow one to participate in the profits of the company and earn dividends over a long period. 2. Cash value growth Whole life insurance comes with a cash value component. Part of each premium payment goes toward this component, and over time the policy has the potential to accrue a sizable sum as cash value. The cash value of the policy can be utilized through withdrawals or loans.
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