Original Medicare consists of Part A, which covers hospital services, and Part B, which covers outpatient services like doctor visits and medical equipment. Medicare establishes an approved amount it will pay for each Part B service. However, providers who do not accept Medicare assignment can charge up to 15% over this amount, known as excess … Read more
Producers and agents who sell Medicare supplement insurance or long-term care insurance have important requirements regarding replacement notices that must be provided to applicants. These notices ensure consumers understand the consequences of replacing an existing policy and prevent inappropriate replacements. Let’s take a closer look at when producers must deliver notices about replacement coverage. Medicare … Read more
Life insurance provides financial security and peace of mind for you and your loved ones. However, it’s estimated that over $1 billion in life insurance benefits go unclaimed each year because beneficiaries are unaware of existing policies. If you suspect there may be a life insurance policy with your name on it, there are steps … Read more
Insurance company failures can be distressing events for policyholders. However, safeguards exist to protect consumers if their insurer becomes insolvent. This article provides an overview of what happens when an insurance company fails and how states regulate and support policyholders when insolvencies occur. How Insurers Fall Into Financial Trouble Insurance companies can fail for several … Read more
An insurance contract involves a legally binding agreement between an insurance company and a policyholder. For the agreement to be valid and enforceable, it must contain certain essential elements as required by insurance law and regulations. This article provides an overview of the key elements that comprise an insurance contract. Basic Contract Elements Like all … Read more
Dealing with insurance claims can be confusing, especially when you see your claim has a “pending” status. This article explains what a pending claim means and the reasons insurers use this designation before approving or denying a claim. What Does “Pending” Mean for an Insurance Claim? When an insurance claim is marked as “pending”, it … Read more
Using someone else’s medical insurance may seem like an easy way to get healthcare coverage, but it is actually illegal and can have serious consequences. This article will explain why you should never use another person’s insurance, the penalties you may face, and legal options to get your own affordable healthcare coverage. Why You Should … Read more
The Medicare refund rule refers to federal regulations that require healthcare providers to report and return any Medicare overpayments within a specified timeframe. This rule, which was enacted as part of the Affordable Care Act in 2010, is an important mechanism to ensure program integrity and prevent fraud, waste and abuse in the Medicare system. … Read more
The health care workforce is a vital part of the United States economy and provides essential services to the population. But how many health care providers are there actually in the US? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine the latest data and statistics to understand the size and composition of the health care workforce. Overview … Read more
When a loved one passes away, dealing with financial matters can be overwhelming. You may receive life insurance proceeds to help cover final expenses and provide financial security. But do you have to pay taxes on this payout? And will you receive a 1099 form for the proceeds? Understanding the tax implications can help you … Read more