At the time of the first sexual life at night that act as newly-marriedly, the slight pain will happen while breaking and bleed on a small quantity in the wife's hymen, this is said by us and " seen red ", seldom need special-purpose processing. However, we do not get rid of some such situations either, because women's hymen is hard and thick or the hymen hole is too small sometimes, or the husband's sexual intercourse movements are rude, more phenomena that bleed after tear. The the most seriously one not only cause the hymen to have bigger breach , but also the nymphae wall is torn wounded , cause the massive haemorrhage.
So, when appear in this kind of situation, how to do?
To the more one of generally bleeding amount , can stop up section and vagina mouth under the vagina by cleaning gauzes or the handkerchief immediately , tie the sanitary belt ; Or press the oppression of the tampon and arrest blood with the finger; Or spread into the wound with a small bottle of Yunnan baiyao (pseudo-ginseng powder will do ), then the gauze stops up by disinfecting. The bride can clamp one pair of sides thigh , lie on one's side and have a rest , take out gauzes 6 hours later, bleeding can mostly stop .
But should not there is a sexual life in 3 days, in case the wound breaks again. If a lot of bleeding amount, when or it is invalid to use above-mentioned styptic laws, should go to the gynaecology and obstetrics of the hospital to check and treat immediately , can't delay . Before reaching the hospital , must oppress to arrest blood , and is sent to the hospital by the automobile , stretcher or bicycle, can't let the bride walk , cause the shock too much so as not to result in bleeding but jeopardize the life. After arresting blood , before healing can't sew up sexual intercourse.
Then, how to prevent the appearance of the first sexual intercourse massive haemorrhage?
The key to the question, is mainly that the bridegroom should have patience, movements should be gentle. The penis should be inserted slowly, has expanded the tight vagina slowly, it can't be too fast and too deep to carry and insert. If sexual intercourse can one time success,can divide it go on time, and notice by sexual intercourse fully caressing bride. The bride wants to study some sex knowledge too, dispel the tense psychology, could make the private parts fully relax , prevent the vagina from tearing wounded.
2007年11月29日星期四
The hymen break to still continue
At the time of the first sexual life at night that act as newly-marriedly, the slight pain will happen while breaking and bleed on a small quantity in the wife's hymen, this is said by us and " seen red ", seldom need special-purpose processing. However, we do not get rid of some such situations either, because women's hymen is hard and thick or the hymen hole is too small sometimes, or the husband's sexual intercourse movements are rude, more phenomena that bleed after tear. The the most seriously one not only cause the hymen to have bigger breach , but also the nymphae wall is torn wounded , cause the massive haemorrhage.
So, when appear in this kind of situation, how to do?
To the more one of generally bleeding amount , can stop up section and vagina mouth under the vagina by cleaning gauzes or the handkerchief immediately , tie the sanitary belt ; Or press the oppression of the tampon and arrest blood with the finger; Or spread into the wound with a small bottle of Yunnan baiyao (pseudo-ginseng powder will do ), then the gauze stops up by disinfecting. The bride can clamp one pair of sides thigh , lie on one's side and have a rest , take out gauzes 6 hours later, bleeding can mostly stop .
But should not there is a sexual life in 3 days, in case the wound breaks again. If a lot of bleeding amount, when or it is invalid to use above-mentioned styptic laws, should go to the gynaecology and obstetrics of the hospital to check and treat immediately , can't delay . Before reaching the hospital , must oppress to arrest blood , and is sent to the hospital by the automobile , stretcher or bicycle, can't let the bride walk , cause the shock too much so as not to result in bleeding but jeopardize the life. After arresting blood , before healing can't sew up sexual intercourse.
Then, how to prevent the appearance of the first sexual intercourse massive haemorrhage?
The key to the question, is mainly that the bridegroom should have patience, movements should be gentle. The penis should be inserted slowly, has expanded the tight vagina slowly, it can't be too fast and too deep to carry and insert. If sexual intercourse can one time success,can divide it go on time, and notice by sexual intercourse fully caressing bride. The bride wants to study some sex knowledge too, dispel the tense psychology, could make the private parts fully relax , prevent the vagina from tearing wounded.
So, when appear in this kind of situation, how to do?
To the more one of generally bleeding amount , can stop up section and vagina mouth under the vagina by cleaning gauzes or the handkerchief immediately , tie the sanitary belt ; Or press the oppression of the tampon and arrest blood with the finger; Or spread into the wound with a small bottle of Yunnan baiyao (pseudo-ginseng powder will do ), then the gauze stops up by disinfecting. The bride can clamp one pair of sides thigh , lie on one's side and have a rest , take out gauzes 6 hours later, bleeding can mostly stop .
But should not there is a sexual life in 3 days, in case the wound breaks again. If a lot of bleeding amount, when or it is invalid to use above-mentioned styptic laws, should go to the gynaecology and obstetrics of the hospital to check and treat immediately , can't delay . Before reaching the hospital , must oppress to arrest blood , and is sent to the hospital by the automobile , stretcher or bicycle, can't let the bride walk , cause the shock too much so as not to result in bleeding but jeopardize the life. After arresting blood , before healing can't sew up sexual intercourse.
Then, how to prevent the appearance of the first sexual intercourse massive haemorrhage?
The key to the question, is mainly that the bridegroom should have patience, movements should be gentle. The penis should be inserted slowly, has expanded the tight vagina slowly, it can't be too fast and too deep to carry and insert. If sexual intercourse can one time success,can divide it go on time, and notice by sexual intercourse fully caressing bride. The bride wants to study some sex knowledge too, dispel the tense psychology, could make the private parts fully relax , prevent the vagina from tearing wounded.
Identifying the Signs of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women and the leading cause of cancer deaths.
Every woman's breasts are different so it is important for each individual woman to be familiar with her breasts in order to recognize any peculiarities.
Unfortunately, the early stages of breast cancer may not have any symptoms. This is why it is important to follow screening recommendations. As a tumor grows in size, it can produce a variety of symptoms including:
* lump or thickening in the breast or underarm * change in size or shape of the breast * nipple discharge or nipple turning inward * redness or scaling of the skin or nipple * ridges or pitting of the breast skin
If you experience these symptoms, it doesn't necessarily mean you have breast cancer, but you need to be examined by a doctor.
Breast cancer is very rare before age 20 and is rarely diagnosed in women younger than age 25. Past that age, the incidence rises steadily to reach a peak around the age of menopause. The rate of increase is lessened after menopause, but older women are still at increasing risk over time.
Although a specific cause for breast cancer has not been identified, there are risk factors that increase the likelihood that a woman will develop a breast cancer. These risks include:
* Maternal relative with breast cancer. * Women who start their menstruation early and/or go into early menopause, increasing the length of reproductive years, are at greater risk. * Obesity. Women who are overweight are at increased risk * Women who have never had children are at greater risk. * Women who had their first child over age 30 are at greater risk. * Previous breast cancer. * Previous endometrial cancer.
Aside from the genetic predisposition, the common factor in many of these risks is increased endogenous estrogen exposure over a long time.
It is recommended that women over 35 check their breasts monthly. However, it is also important that all women do regular breast checks. Your doctor can show you how to effectively check your breasts. Any lump, regardless of size, should be reported to your doctor. Many of these lumps are simply fatty lumps or cysts but it is far better to be safe than sorry.
Catching breast cancer early makes a big difference in the type of treatment needed as well as the overall prognosis.
Every woman's breasts are different so it is important for each individual woman to be familiar with her breasts in order to recognize any peculiarities.
Unfortunately, the early stages of breast cancer may not have any symptoms. This is why it is important to follow screening recommendations. As a tumor grows in size, it can produce a variety of symptoms including:
* lump or thickening in the breast or underarm * change in size or shape of the breast * nipple discharge or nipple turning inward * redness or scaling of the skin or nipple * ridges or pitting of the breast skin
If you experience these symptoms, it doesn't necessarily mean you have breast cancer, but you need to be examined by a doctor.
Breast cancer is very rare before age 20 and is rarely diagnosed in women younger than age 25. Past that age, the incidence rises steadily to reach a peak around the age of menopause. The rate of increase is lessened after menopause, but older women are still at increasing risk over time.
Although a specific cause for breast cancer has not been identified, there are risk factors that increase the likelihood that a woman will develop a breast cancer. These risks include:
* Maternal relative with breast cancer. * Women who start their menstruation early and/or go into early menopause, increasing the length of reproductive years, are at greater risk. * Obesity. Women who are overweight are at increased risk * Women who have never had children are at greater risk. * Women who had their first child over age 30 are at greater risk. * Previous breast cancer. * Previous endometrial cancer.
Aside from the genetic predisposition, the common factor in many of these risks is increased endogenous estrogen exposure over a long time.
It is recommended that women over 35 check their breasts monthly. However, it is also important that all women do regular breast checks. Your doctor can show you how to effectively check your breasts. Any lump, regardless of size, should be reported to your doctor. Many of these lumps are simply fatty lumps or cysts but it is far better to be safe than sorry.
Catching breast cancer early makes a big difference in the type of treatment needed as well as the overall prognosis.
Power Nutrition Basics
What does it mean to provide your body with the right structural materials? Are you aware that your body requires sufficient amounts of these right materials to repair and maintain existing tissues and grow new tissues? Do you understand the power of nutrition and how it can transform your body? If you want to lose weight and do it the right way you need to understand the fundamentals of nutrition A.S.A.P. So, what is the right stuff? Lets get to the nitty gritty and give your brain a quick power boost to get you on your way!!
The Right Stuff!
1. Over million of years your body has developed precise mechanisms to utilize chemicals and convert them into muscles, bones, organs, the brain! Any guess as to what these chemicals are? Ill give you a hint: Mainstream Media talks about them all the time as miracle pills. Maybe, they really are. For growth, maintenance and repair make sure you get the correct nutrients. Stay away from that man made stuff!
2. Half of the dry weight of your body is protein. Every structure of your body is virtually constructed by pure protein. Even your genes are pure protein! Make sure to ingest the highest quality r protein, and the right amount. Too little and you suffer. Too much and it can become toxic.
3. What would flesh look like if your bodys electrons were spinning out of control? It wouldnt be flesh, and you wouldnt be you. When your electrons are in harmony with one another you stay healthy indefinitely. What do you need to do to keep your flesh healthy and to lose weight easier without damage to your bodily systems? Antioxidants! The fellows who will help you fight those free radicals.
Putting it all together
Nutrients, protein, and antioxidants all play a vital role in the evolution of the human body. When losing weight it is of great importance that you consume the right types of food so you do not create any long lasting effects that could damage your body. By eating correctly you can lose weight, feel great and create a powerful body and mind that can endure and supersede lifes current stressors.
The Right Stuff!
1. Over million of years your body has developed precise mechanisms to utilize chemicals and convert them into muscles, bones, organs, the brain! Any guess as to what these chemicals are? Ill give you a hint: Mainstream Media talks about them all the time as miracle pills. Maybe, they really are. For growth, maintenance and repair make sure you get the correct nutrients. Stay away from that man made stuff!
2. Half of the dry weight of your body is protein. Every structure of your body is virtually constructed by pure protein. Even your genes are pure protein! Make sure to ingest the highest quality r protein, and the right amount. Too little and you suffer. Too much and it can become toxic.
3. What would flesh look like if your bodys electrons were spinning out of control? It wouldnt be flesh, and you wouldnt be you. When your electrons are in harmony with one another you stay healthy indefinitely. What do you need to do to keep your flesh healthy and to lose weight easier without damage to your bodily systems? Antioxidants! The fellows who will help you fight those free radicals.
Putting it all together
Nutrients, protein, and antioxidants all play a vital role in the evolution of the human body. When losing weight it is of great importance that you consume the right types of food so you do not create any long lasting effects that could damage your body. By eating correctly you can lose weight, feel great and create a powerful body and mind that can endure and supersede lifes current stressors.
A 21th century pandemic
Since the beginning of human existence on planet Earth there has been one virus that has managed to pass through centuries and affect people all around the globe. It is known on all 5 continents as the the flu virus and, with the passing of time more and more information has been acquired giving scientists the possibility to create vaccines and medication.Historical data shows the outbreak of three major flu epidemics in the last century in different parts of the planet: Spain, Asia and Hong Kong. An epidemic affects a single region, people or country without the possibility of outside spread of the disease. On the other hand, a pandemic-the major concern of modern society-has the ability to afflict millions of people in different parts of the world. So, the questions that come to everyone's mind are: Can there be a modern pandemic? What will induce it?Flu is caused by three viruses: A, B and C. The former is highly contagious and has the capacity to infect humans, birds and animals, while viruses B and C affect only people. The influenza A virus has been the starter point of flu epidemics in the past, managing to cause economical crisis on Earth. With the passing of time virus A has become more powerful by developing new strains. The latest, the H5N1 virus which causes bird flu has been a major source of rapid human loss of life due to respiratory diseases. This subtype is contagious and can be transmitted between different species of birds or passed on to humans. For this reason, scientists worry the avian influenza may be the next pandemic to hit our planet.Firstly, the H5N1 virus has a very complex genetic structure that changes constantly. As the virus comes in contact with very different organisms it is able to gain varied information, thus the new strains will make almost impossible the development of a vaccine. Even more, the human body does not have the capacity to create antibodies for every branch of the virus. With very little immunity it is almost certain people won't win the battle against this invisible and lethal enemy.Furthermore, not only is this virus replicating but it is mixing with other viruses, it is acquiring and exchanging genetic material and may eventually be able to create such an evolved strain which will devastate continent after continent.On the other hand, our health -already hanging by a string- is also threatened by the other strains of influenza A viruses which could provoke a world wide pandemic.In the end there is no telling whether we will disappear by bird flu or our existence will continue untouched but, until now, chances are not on our side.
What are the Warning Signs of Mental Illness
In an adult:A person with one or more of the following symptoms should be evaluated by a psychiatrist or other physician as soon as possible:
Marked personality change
Inability to cope with problems and daily activities
Strange or grandiose ideas.
Excessive anxieties.
Prolonged depression and apathy.
Marked changes in eating or sleeping patterns.
Extreme highs and lows.
Abuse of alcohol or drugs.
Excessive anger, hostility, or violent behavior.
A person who is thinking or talking about suicide or homicide should seek help immediately.
In a child:Having only one or two of the problems listed below is not necessarily cause for alarm. They may simply indicate that a practical solution is called for, such as more consistent discipline or a visit with the child's teachers or guidance counselor to see whether there is anything out of the ordinary going on at school. A combination of symptoms, however, is a signal for professional intervention.
The child seems overwhelmed and troubled by his or her feelings, unable to cope with them.
The child cries a lot.
The child frequently asks or hints for help.
The child seems constantly preoccupied, worried, anxious, and intense. Some children develop a fear of a variety of things--rain, barking dogs, burglars, their parents' getting killed when out of sight, and so on--while other children simply wear their anxiety on their faces.
The child has fears or phobias that are unreasonable or interfere with normal activities.
The child can't seem to concentrate on schoolwork and other age-appropriate tasks.
The child's school performance declines and doesn't pick up again.
The child's teachers, school administrators, or other authority figures in the child's life ask the parent what might be troubling the child.
Marked personality change
Inability to cope with problems and daily activities
Strange or grandiose ideas.
Excessive anxieties.
Prolonged depression and apathy.
Marked changes in eating or sleeping patterns.
Extreme highs and lows.
Abuse of alcohol or drugs.
Excessive anger, hostility, or violent behavior.
A person who is thinking or talking about suicide or homicide should seek help immediately.
In a child:Having only one or two of the problems listed below is not necessarily cause for alarm. They may simply indicate that a practical solution is called for, such as more consistent discipline or a visit with the child's teachers or guidance counselor to see whether there is anything out of the ordinary going on at school. A combination of symptoms, however, is a signal for professional intervention.
The child seems overwhelmed and troubled by his or her feelings, unable to cope with them.
The child cries a lot.
The child frequently asks or hints for help.
The child seems constantly preoccupied, worried, anxious, and intense. Some children develop a fear of a variety of things--rain, barking dogs, burglars, their parents' getting killed when out of sight, and so on--while other children simply wear their anxiety on their faces.
The child has fears or phobias that are unreasonable or interfere with normal activities.
The child can't seem to concentrate on schoolwork and other age-appropriate tasks.
The child's school performance declines and doesn't pick up again.
The child's teachers, school administrators, or other authority figures in the child's life ask the parent what might be troubling the child.
Defining mental illness: An interview with a Mayo Clinic specialist
A Mayo Clinic psychiatrist offers answers to frequently asked questions about mental illness, including causes, classifications, treatments, the effects of stress and more.
Mental illnesses have been recognized for thousands of years. Today, advances in science are helping researchers better understand the origins of mental illness and find more effective treatments. But much remains to be learned. Here, Daniel Hall-Flavin, M.D., a psychiatrist at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn., offers a modern interpretation of mental illness, including a look at how mental disorders are defined, the use of medications, the role of psychotherapy and how stress affects well-being.
What is mental illness?
Mental illness is a term that refers to all the different types of mental disorders, including disorders of thought, mood or behavior. To be classified as a mental illness, the condition must cause distress and result in a reduced ability to function psychologically, socially, occupationally or interpersonally.
This means that someone who has a mental illness may have trouble coping with emotions, stress and anger, for instance, and trouble handling such things as daily activities, family responsibilities, relationships, or work and school responsibilities. You can have trouble, to a greater or lesser degree, with one area or all of them. And you can have more than one type of mental illness at the same time.
How is the classification of mental illness evolving?
Today, we classify mental illness based on the symptoms a person experiences and the clinical features of the illness, such as feeling hopeless or having delusions. But as we continue to gain a clearer understanding of how specific genes interact with illnesses or behaviors, we may be able to develop a much more sophisticated classification system that is directly linked to a biological cause of mental illness, rather than just symptoms. This can help us better tailor treatment to individuals. For instance, some disorders have similar symptoms and clinical features but are actually very different in terms of their underlying biology. To treat them similarly simply because they share the same symptoms may not be appropriate. We suspect, for example, that there are different types of schizophrenia, with different causes, and that they possibly respond differently to different treatments.
What are the classes of mental illness?
Our evolving understanding of genetics and how the brain works may eventually change how we classify mental illnesses. For now, we think of several main classes of mental illness:
Mood disorders. These include disorders that affect how you feel, such as persistent sadness or feelings of euphoria. They include major depression and bipolar disorder.
Anxiety disorders. Anxiety is an emotion characterized by the anticipation of future danger or misfortune accompanied by a feeling of being ill at ease. Examples include panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, specific phobias and generalized anxiety disorder.
Mental illnesses have been recognized for thousands of years. Today, advances in science are helping researchers better understand the origins of mental illness and find more effective treatments. But much remains to be learned. Here, Daniel Hall-Flavin, M.D., a psychiatrist at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn., offers a modern interpretation of mental illness, including a look at how mental disorders are defined, the use of medications, the role of psychotherapy and how stress affects well-being.
What is mental illness?
Mental illness is a term that refers to all the different types of mental disorders, including disorders of thought, mood or behavior. To be classified as a mental illness, the condition must cause distress and result in a reduced ability to function psychologically, socially, occupationally or interpersonally.
This means that someone who has a mental illness may have trouble coping with emotions, stress and anger, for instance, and trouble handling such things as daily activities, family responsibilities, relationships, or work and school responsibilities. You can have trouble, to a greater or lesser degree, with one area or all of them. And you can have more than one type of mental illness at the same time.
How is the classification of mental illness evolving?
Today, we classify mental illness based on the symptoms a person experiences and the clinical features of the illness, such as feeling hopeless or having delusions. But as we continue to gain a clearer understanding of how specific genes interact with illnesses or behaviors, we may be able to develop a much more sophisticated classification system that is directly linked to a biological cause of mental illness, rather than just symptoms. This can help us better tailor treatment to individuals. For instance, some disorders have similar symptoms and clinical features but are actually very different in terms of their underlying biology. To treat them similarly simply because they share the same symptoms may not be appropriate. We suspect, for example, that there are different types of schizophrenia, with different causes, and that they possibly respond differently to different treatments.
What are the classes of mental illness?
Our evolving understanding of genetics and how the brain works may eventually change how we classify mental illnesses. For now, we think of several main classes of mental illness:
Mood disorders. These include disorders that affect how you feel, such as persistent sadness or feelings of euphoria. They include major depression and bipolar disorder.
Anxiety disorders. Anxiety is an emotion characterized by the anticipation of future danger or misfortune accompanied by a feeling of being ill at ease. Examples include panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, specific phobias and generalized anxiety disorder.
Sleep and rest
James Tighe, clinical nurse research fellow
Shakespeare described sleep as "the chief nourisher in life's feast", acknowledging that for most of us deep rest is necessary for keeping body, mind and spirit in good form.
What if restless nights are normal instead of the exception?
Sleep deprivation isn't just bad for us, it's also bad for people around us: tens of thousands of traffic accidents are attributed to sleepy drivers every year.
But the average night's sleep in the UK now averages about 90 minutes less than it did in the 1920s, when it was nine hours a night.
What is sleep?
Sleep is made up of different stages. The ten-minute period of light sleep (drifting off from wakefulness) is called Stage One. Stage Two is deeper and lasts about 20 minutes. Stages Three and Four come after this, and are types of deep sleep.
Deep sleep is the part of sleep that our body and brain needs to recover from the day. It's sometimes called delta sleep, after the delta waves the brain generates. We don't dream during this time. After about 90 minutes of deep sleep, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep begins.
During a normal night, people usually cycle through the various stages several times. Problems arise when the pattern of cycles is broken.
Are we getting enough?
Those of us who don't have the luxury of an afternoon nap still tend to get sleepy at about this time. Interestingly, people who increase their night-time sleep find that this afternoon 'dip' disappears. A ten-minute nap at lunchtime is just as effective.
Sleep problems, including dozing off, can be a symptom of many other conditions, from problems with the thyroid gland to depression - and even occasionally rare sleep disorders such as narcolepsy. So it's important to speak with your GP if you're currently experiencing insomnia or another sleep problem, since it could be indicative of another condition.
Sleep and mood are interlinked in intriguing ways that are still not understood. But a satisfying sleep, like a satisfying meal, can leave one happy and content - with room perhaps for just a little more.
Remember to use your bedroom primarily for sleeping, making it as comfortable, airy and dark as possible
Shakespeare described sleep as "the chief nourisher in life's feast", acknowledging that for most of us deep rest is necessary for keeping body, mind and spirit in good form.
What if restless nights are normal instead of the exception?
Sleep deprivation isn't just bad for us, it's also bad for people around us: tens of thousands of traffic accidents are attributed to sleepy drivers every year.
But the average night's sleep in the UK now averages about 90 minutes less than it did in the 1920s, when it was nine hours a night.
What is sleep?
Sleep is made up of different stages. The ten-minute period of light sleep (drifting off from wakefulness) is called Stage One. Stage Two is deeper and lasts about 20 minutes. Stages Three and Four come after this, and are types of deep sleep.
Deep sleep is the part of sleep that our body and brain needs to recover from the day. It's sometimes called delta sleep, after the delta waves the brain generates. We don't dream during this time. After about 90 minutes of deep sleep, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep begins.
During a normal night, people usually cycle through the various stages several times. Problems arise when the pattern of cycles is broken.
Are we getting enough?
Those of us who don't have the luxury of an afternoon nap still tend to get sleepy at about this time. Interestingly, people who increase their night-time sleep find that this afternoon 'dip' disappears. A ten-minute nap at lunchtime is just as effective.
Sleep problems, including dozing off, can be a symptom of many other conditions, from problems with the thyroid gland to depression - and even occasionally rare sleep disorders such as narcolepsy. So it's important to speak with your GP if you're currently experiencing insomnia or another sleep problem, since it could be indicative of another condition.
Sleep and mood are interlinked in intriguing ways that are still not understood. But a satisfying sleep, like a satisfying meal, can leave one happy and content - with room perhaps for just a little more.
Remember to use your bedroom primarily for sleeping, making it as comfortable, airy and dark as possible
Responding to stress
Tracy Turner
We all feel stressed at various times in our lives. It's a normal response to challenging circumstances, and can be caused by happy as well as sad events. A new partner or a holiday can trigger stress just as much as the death of a loved one or a job loss.
A little bit of stress isn't a bad thing: it mobilises our bodies and energises us during the coping process. But being overstressed can result in a range of health problems, including headaches, upset stomach, high blood pressure and even strokes or heart disease.
Responding to life stress
One of the first steps to cope with stress is learning to recognise your personal signs and symptoms. The way you function on a daily basis may change, or you may notice a difference in your body (such as tense shoulders), thinking, or general sense of wellbeing. Is the cause for your stress a real threat? Or is something causing needless worry in your life?
Stress is part of life but we don't need to compound our problems by putting ourselves down and thinking irrational thoughts such as "nobody gets stressed out like I do". We're not weak or neurotic because we're stressed - we're stressed because we're human. Blaming ourselves or doling out negative thoughts as self-imposed punishment is a waste of energy.
Approaching stress constructively
It can be tempting to hide from the people, places and tasks which make life difficult. By removing yourself from the situation, it's possible to find immediate relief - but the sources of stress will never go away unless we confront them.
If avoiding stress triggers isn't a good technique for dealing with stress, what is? Life experience teaches us that whenever we need to master a new skill - learning to swim, giving a public presentation, taking risks in front of others - it pays to take a deep breath, perhaps grit our teeth and get on with things. Most of the time, it all works out.
Positive confrontation is a good coping skill when faced with stress. Instead of avoiding a difficult boss, why not take every opportunity to work in his or her presence? Throwing ourselves in at the deep end until we master it is one way to desensitise ourselves to the people, places and work we find stressful. Taking action is good for our basic wellbeing too.
Another approach to tackling stress head-on is to keep tabs on our stress while we're working. Logging the time of day, situation, how strong feelings of stress were, how you coped and how stressed you felt afterwards can be a useful tool for some people. This can give us an accurate idea of when and where we get anxious, and what coping skills work for us in certain situations.
Another way to take action on stress is to control the body and mind. Self-relaxation leading up to stressful times (as well as afterwards!) and positive self-talk ("I have the skills to do this job well", "I've done this a dozen times before") are excellent skills to have. Sometimes our perceptions of a situation may be inaccurate - interpretations of an event or situation may be more negative when we're down or dissatisfied.
We all feel stressed at various times in our lives. It's a normal response to challenging circumstances, and can be caused by happy as well as sad events. A new partner or a holiday can trigger stress just as much as the death of a loved one or a job loss.
A little bit of stress isn't a bad thing: it mobilises our bodies and energises us during the coping process. But being overstressed can result in a range of health problems, including headaches, upset stomach, high blood pressure and even strokes or heart disease.
Responding to life stress
One of the first steps to cope with stress is learning to recognise your personal signs and symptoms. The way you function on a daily basis may change, or you may notice a difference in your body (such as tense shoulders), thinking, or general sense of wellbeing. Is the cause for your stress a real threat? Or is something causing needless worry in your life?
Stress is part of life but we don't need to compound our problems by putting ourselves down and thinking irrational thoughts such as "nobody gets stressed out like I do". We're not weak or neurotic because we're stressed - we're stressed because we're human. Blaming ourselves or doling out negative thoughts as self-imposed punishment is a waste of energy.
Approaching stress constructively
It can be tempting to hide from the people, places and tasks which make life difficult. By removing yourself from the situation, it's possible to find immediate relief - but the sources of stress will never go away unless we confront them.
If avoiding stress triggers isn't a good technique for dealing with stress, what is? Life experience teaches us that whenever we need to master a new skill - learning to swim, giving a public presentation, taking risks in front of others - it pays to take a deep breath, perhaps grit our teeth and get on with things. Most of the time, it all works out.
Positive confrontation is a good coping skill when faced with stress. Instead of avoiding a difficult boss, why not take every opportunity to work in his or her presence? Throwing ourselves in at the deep end until we master it is one way to desensitise ourselves to the people, places and work we find stressful. Taking action is good for our basic wellbeing too.
Another approach to tackling stress head-on is to keep tabs on our stress while we're working. Logging the time of day, situation, how strong feelings of stress were, how you coped and how stressed you felt afterwards can be a useful tool for some people. This can give us an accurate idea of when and where we get anxious, and what coping skills work for us in certain situations.
Another way to take action on stress is to control the body and mind. Self-relaxation leading up to stressful times (as well as afterwards!) and positive self-talk ("I have the skills to do this job well", "I've done this a dozen times before") are excellent skills to have. Sometimes our perceptions of a situation may be inaccurate - interpretations of an event or situation may be more negative when we're down or dissatisfied.
Caring for young people
Most children feel sad, anxious, angry or upset from time to time - it's simply part of growing up. Occasionally, their problems will be more serious. We look at some of the causes of distress and depression in children, the signs to look for and how you can help.
Some children talk about their feelings, others express them through moody or uncontrollable behaviour. If the difficult spell doesn't last too long and the child appears to be coping with everyday life, there's probably nothing to worry about.
Sometimes, however, problems arise that can lead to serious difficulties in the future. Children and young people are very sensitive to what goes on around them and, without the right support, can become distressed about situations they find hard to deal with.
Anyone with a diagnosis of mental distress, whatever their age, needs a lot of support. If you feel someone close to you is experiencing more than just passing emotional problems, you should encourage them to talk about their feelings and, if necessary, get advice from their GP.
When people are mentally upset, their behaviour can be unpredictable. For example, they may:
become angry and frightened or aggressive
seem so depressed that you are afraid they will harm themselves
refuse to accept that their behaviour is in any way unusual
feel unable to cope with day-to-day life
behave in a hostile manner towards you
Some causes of depression in children
losing a parent or loved one through family break-up or bereavement
problems at school, such as fear of failure or being bullied
having a parent who's depressed or anxious
witnessing repeated arguing or domestic abuse
feeling lonely or left out
the death of a pet
a new stepfamily
physical, emotional or sexual abuse
Events that aren't obviously traumatic, such as moving house, losing a favourite toy, the arrival of a new baby or being left for a long time with a person they don't know, can also cause long-term distress.
How to recognise the signs
Toddlers who are depressed may be tearful and clingy, lose their appetite and wake up during the night or have nightmares. Their behaviour may become very demanding or destructive. Sometimes general development slows down and they forget toilet training.
School-age children may lose interest in work and play, or refuse to go to school. Some become irritable and difficult to control, others lose confidence and seem careless. Many find it hard to talk and show their feelings through behaviour alone. Stealing and playing truant can be signs that a child is feeling bad.
Some children talk about their feelings, others express them through moody or uncontrollable behaviour. If the difficult spell doesn't last too long and the child appears to be coping with everyday life, there's probably nothing to worry about.
Sometimes, however, problems arise that can lead to serious difficulties in the future. Children and young people are very sensitive to what goes on around them and, without the right support, can become distressed about situations they find hard to deal with.
Anyone with a diagnosis of mental distress, whatever their age, needs a lot of support. If you feel someone close to you is experiencing more than just passing emotional problems, you should encourage them to talk about their feelings and, if necessary, get advice from their GP.
When people are mentally upset, their behaviour can be unpredictable. For example, they may:
become angry and frightened or aggressive
seem so depressed that you are afraid they will harm themselves
refuse to accept that their behaviour is in any way unusual
feel unable to cope with day-to-day life
behave in a hostile manner towards you
Some causes of depression in children
losing a parent or loved one through family break-up or bereavement
problems at school, such as fear of failure or being bullied
having a parent who's depressed or anxious
witnessing repeated arguing or domestic abuse
feeling lonely or left out
the death of a pet
a new stepfamily
physical, emotional or sexual abuse
Events that aren't obviously traumatic, such as moving house, losing a favourite toy, the arrival of a new baby or being left for a long time with a person they don't know, can also cause long-term distress.
How to recognise the signs
Toddlers who are depressed may be tearful and clingy, lose their appetite and wake up during the night or have nightmares. Their behaviour may become very demanding or destructive. Sometimes general development slows down and they forget toilet training.
School-age children may lose interest in work and play, or refuse to go to school. Some become irritable and difficult to control, others lose confidence and seem careless. Many find it hard to talk and show their feelings through behaviour alone. Stealing and playing truant can be signs that a child is feeling bad.
See your personality from the eat fruit
Which kind of fruit do you like eating, the personality of seeing you? Please choose the answer.
A : Peach.
B : Pear.
C : Grape.
D : Water-melon.
E : Plum.
F : Strawberry.
G : Cherry.
Person who selects A:
You and most people around are looks coordination psychologically. You are a person who is good at communication, but seem powerless before the difficulty sometimes.
Person who selects B:
You are a gentle and quiet , kindhearted person. Rich in sense of humour , accept the criticism from others calmly , accept oneself and think the helpful advice.
Person who selects C:
You are good at guarding the secrets of oneself and others, but the person around does not always believe in you very much.
Person who selects D:
You have a good temper, never complain, quarrel , care others better than care oneself , but lack the sense of principle either.
Person who selects E:
It is difficult for you and people to live in harmony, can't stand criticizing . You are easy to chatter , like finding fault .
Person who selects F:
You are an optimistic and hospitable person. Get along well with people, and is good at treasuring the beautiful thing. Does not envy , very calm, there is no jealousy.
Person who selects G:
You are a gentle , soft-hearted , honest person, and have spirit of dying. But like fomenting discord, intolerant. On the love, you are immature.
A : Peach.
B : Pear.
C : Grape.
D : Water-melon.
E : Plum.
F : Strawberry.
G : Cherry.
Person who selects A:
You and most people around are looks coordination psychologically. You are a person who is good at communication, but seem powerless before the difficulty sometimes.
Person who selects B:
You are a gentle and quiet , kindhearted person. Rich in sense of humour , accept the criticism from others calmly , accept oneself and think the helpful advice.
Person who selects C:
You are good at guarding the secrets of oneself and others, but the person around does not always believe in you very much.
Person who selects D:
You have a good temper, never complain, quarrel , care others better than care oneself , but lack the sense of principle either.
Person who selects E:
It is difficult for you and people to live in harmony, can't stand criticizing . You are easy to chatter , like finding fault .
Person who selects F:
You are an optimistic and hospitable person. Get along well with people, and is good at treasuring the beautiful thing. Does not envy , very calm, there is no jealousy.
Person who selects G:
You are a gentle , soft-hearted , honest person, and have spirit of dying. But like fomenting discord, intolerant. On the love, you are immature.
Lose one's temper than the health of benefitting sulkily even more
In most people's view, the thing of losing one's temper and usually offending against good taste. However, a result of study which the American scientist announces shows recently, when people feel angry and want to lose one's temper, if can lead off out in time , will be favorable to one's own body , will bring the chance to longevity. The American scientist's result of study shows , those are unwilling to lead one's own discontented mood off or like suppressing the angry person to be apt to shorten one's own life-span. The result of study still shows , the long research objects all belong to the type of " having tempers to send " basically for those work. The result of study shows , it is on one hand unfavorable to the heart, will even influence the normal work of the immune system on the other hand that sulky, and cause the hormone change in the brain. So, oneself and oneself are angry instead of being stuffy in the heart, not so good as can reduce the external adverse effect produced toward human body of environment to lead discontented mood off effectively.
Though civilization world is it is it restrain and not calm to want to put emphasis on often, but in daily life, the way that a lot of people lose one's temper still nothing more than howls towards family, if there is the pet in the family, can even play several feet of its and vent one's spleen . Researchers think , although these ways are unsightly ,, people should have humanized understanding to the person losing one's temper because discontented in certain way to lead off out, always suppressing anger in the heart than in order to seem to have gentility will favorable to the more health.
Though civilization world is it is it restrain and not calm to want to put emphasis on often, but in daily life, the way that a lot of people lose one's temper still nothing more than howls towards family, if there is the pet in the family, can even play several feet of its and vent one's spleen . Researchers think , although these ways are unsightly ,, people should have humanized understanding to the person losing one's temper because discontented in certain way to lead off out, always suppressing anger in the heart than in order to seem to have gentility will favorable to the more health.
Ten kinds are given to the woman not married for free
Ten kinds are given to the woman like listening to the woman with a soft streak in day and night
This kind of woman treats husband's honeyed words as the meal is eaten, have not heard for a moment that feel very hungry. Say as husband such as " you very beautiful today " at if " today such as you really hard ", the expression when and no matter the husband says the words, the ground gets drunk alone simply.
2, the woman sticking ears over of husband's taking over machine
This kind of woman pretends not to care about the man's different charges in nature friend , but the husband's telephone number is loud , the women in the stir-fry will all stop the slice, the side will arise ears will be heard . Certainly this kind of woman will also leaf through the husband's short information of cell phone silently.
3, always say that making up by oneself is for the husband's woman
The time that this kind of woman makes up every day will account for several hours, the expenditure of the cosmetics takes half of family's daily expenditure, if the husband can be impatient of but while urging, it is not all " this kind of huge lie " for you that the woman says ". Generally not with husband that the woman goes to work, the woman making up was obviously for the public, really but not need to make up with the husband when together.
4, the woman taking over the husband's money with nothing left
Husband unit pay out wages still to one week, the woman is pressing for and asking the whereabouts of the salary. Wait until the salary , in hands , the woman takes one or several out to give to the woman as sending children of men.
5, the woman washing the clothes and taking a sniff at the husband's clothes smell with the nose
This kind of woman looks like the secret service, will not stop taking a sniff at with the sensitive nose while washing the clothes, see whether there is other women's perfume flavor on husband's clothes. She own perfume to fix several, she even more terribly than dog's nose ability of distinguishing to the perfume.
6, does not like being a woman of house work
Have produced aprons well for the husband, the husband went home and put him in. Cook and also say that " the woman cooks innately " once in a while , then command men to wash the bowl so that the psychology is balanced. It have slightly if man from,say by " give birth to son of giving you the houses I ", it is finish pieces of project not great's wanting not lasting woman all one's life from then on not to seem.
7, the woman having only skin and bones
The woman sense American to claim bone, give no thought to husband can have nightmares to have in arms evening, still to the fact that the weight-reducing cost of the woman is great , prosper enormous contribution for the family say again and again . ot married for free
This kind of woman treats husband's honeyed words as the meal is eaten, have not heard for a moment that feel very hungry. Say as husband such as " you very beautiful today " at if " today such as you really hard ", the expression when and no matter the husband says the words, the ground gets drunk alone simply.
2, the woman sticking ears over of husband's taking over machine
This kind of woman pretends not to care about the man's different charges in nature friend , but the husband's telephone number is loud , the women in the stir-fry will all stop the slice, the side will arise ears will be heard . Certainly this kind of woman will also leaf through the husband's short information of cell phone silently.
3, always say that making up by oneself is for the husband's woman
The time that this kind of woman makes up every day will account for several hours, the expenditure of the cosmetics takes half of family's daily expenditure, if the husband can be impatient of but while urging, it is not all " this kind of huge lie " for you that the woman says ". Generally not with husband that the woman goes to work, the woman making up was obviously for the public, really but not need to make up with the husband when together.
4, the woman taking over the husband's money with nothing left
Husband unit pay out wages still to one week, the woman is pressing for and asking the whereabouts of the salary. Wait until the salary , in hands , the woman takes one or several out to give to the woman as sending children of men.
5, the woman washing the clothes and taking a sniff at the husband's clothes smell with the nose
This kind of woman looks like the secret service, will not stop taking a sniff at with the sensitive nose while washing the clothes, see whether there is other women's perfume flavor on husband's clothes. She own perfume to fix several, she even more terribly than dog's nose ability of distinguishing to the perfume.
6, does not like being a woman of house work
Have produced aprons well for the husband, the husband went home and put him in. Cook and also say that " the woman cooks innately " once in a while , then command men to wash the bowl so that the psychology is balanced. It have slightly if man from,say by " give birth to son of giving you the houses I ", it is finish pieces of project not great's wanting not lasting woman all one's life from then on not to seem.
7, the woman having only skin and bones
The woman sense American to claim bone, give no thought to husband can have nightmares to have in arms evening, still to the fact that the weight-reducing cost of the woman is great , prosper enormous contribution for the family say again and again . ot married for free
Dietetic treatment of the wrinkle
The wrinkle is that the skin lacks the moisture, the surface fat reduces, result that the elasticity drops. Can dispel the wrinkle gradually through the adjustment to the diet structure, it is old and feeble to delay the skin, concrete can pay attention to the following several points :
First, eat more rich food containing plain sulphuric acid of cartilage.
People's skin is made up of epidermis , genuine leather and hypodermis, it is mainly a genuine leather that influences skin appearance . The genuine leather is formed by rich and elastic fibre, and it is the plain sulphuric acid of cartilage to form elastic fibre and most important material. If lack the plain sulphuric acid of cartilage in people's diet, the skin will lose elasticity , the wrinkle appears. So, so long as eat more and include the food with plain and abundant cartilage , can dispel the wrinkle , make the skin keep fine and smooth , rich flexibly. The cartilage is stored plainly in the cartilage in chicken's skin , shark's fin , salmon's head ,etc. mainly.
Second, eat more rich food containing nucleic acid.
The nucleic acid is a kind of life information material, it not merely plays an important role in protein biosynthesis, and influence other all kinds of supersession ways and speeds of supersession. The nucleic acid is that one kind retains materials in spring, it can slow aging , can be good for the skin and improve looks. Proved by science, women take about 800 milligrams of nucleic acid every day, 2 grams of vitamin, the face wrinkle disappears mostly 4 weeks later, wrinkle the skin to make thickly smoothly and finely and smoothly , the senile plaque reduces gradually too. The food with abundant nucleic acid is fish , shrimp , animal's liver , yeast , mushroom , auricularia auriculajudae , pollen ,etc..
Third, eat more sour milk and pork skin.
People's skin has several million epidermis cells death every day, include the acid material in the sour milk, is it soften stickness material of skin to contribute to, can remove cell very much, wrinkle can be dispelled among course this. Eat more pork skin , can make the tissue cell which store water with low function improved , at the same time human body's usable nutriment in the pork skin, fully formate collagens, then water combined with the collagen in the body, it influences the physiological function of the specific tissue to go, it makes the skin keep smooth to reduce the wrinkle.
First, eat more rich food containing plain sulphuric acid of cartilage.
People's skin is made up of epidermis , genuine leather and hypodermis, it is mainly a genuine leather that influences skin appearance . The genuine leather is formed by rich and elastic fibre, and it is the plain sulphuric acid of cartilage to form elastic fibre and most important material. If lack the plain sulphuric acid of cartilage in people's diet, the skin will lose elasticity , the wrinkle appears. So, so long as eat more and include the food with plain and abundant cartilage , can dispel the wrinkle , make the skin keep fine and smooth , rich flexibly. The cartilage is stored plainly in the cartilage in chicken's skin , shark's fin , salmon's head ,etc. mainly.
Second, eat more rich food containing nucleic acid.
The nucleic acid is a kind of life information material, it not merely plays an important role in protein biosynthesis, and influence other all kinds of supersession ways and speeds of supersession. The nucleic acid is that one kind retains materials in spring, it can slow aging , can be good for the skin and improve looks. Proved by science, women take about 800 milligrams of nucleic acid every day, 2 grams of vitamin, the face wrinkle disappears mostly 4 weeks later, wrinkle the skin to make thickly smoothly and finely and smoothly , the senile plaque reduces gradually too. The food with abundant nucleic acid is fish , shrimp , animal's liver , yeast , mushroom , auricularia auriculajudae , pollen ,etc..
Third, eat more sour milk and pork skin.
People's skin has several million epidermis cells death every day, include the acid material in the sour milk, is it soften stickness material of skin to contribute to, can remove cell very much, wrinkle can be dispelled among course this. Eat more pork skin , can make the tissue cell which store water with low function improved , at the same time human body's usable nutriment in the pork skin, fully formate collagens, then water combined with the collagen in the body, it influences the physiological function of the specific tissue to go, it makes the skin keep smooth to reduce the wrinkle.
Diet prescription of different mood
Discover, furthermore than to eat other food the edible carbohydrate makes people energetic , happy, this is because the carbohydrate will make the brain produce a large amount of hydroxyl color amine while digesting and resolving , impel people's mood to become happy , peaceful, even can make people lighten and keenly feel , and usually lack hydroxyl color amine in the manic and melancholia patient's brain. British medical expert proves , the fruit , vegetables , black flour and candies, anxious to mood , is constrain and have good result of treatment. If potato , oat , brown bread , fruit , vegetables is it can make people mood make joyful , peaceful material to contain, it will make people happy , quiet to often eat. The researcher still thinks , Englishmen's comparative peace and quiet , humour, like eating the oat and having very great relations with them.
The following is that the medical expert, for the diet " prescription " of adjusting mood and opening, there is no harm in trying it.
First, regard oneself as the centre, assume office as the person of the feeling
The main reason is partial to a limited variety of food causes nutrition to be insufficient, and eat and drink immoderately , thus form the extreme , individual character of lurching. It should give up the sugar and absorb the excessive habit first to change this mood, the fish , meat eat more than one time more than now , eat more greenish-yellow vegetables and carrot, but don't eat the over-salty food to make sure to keep in mind, it is so apt to become the anxious individual character , fall short of success for lack of final effort.
Second , indecision, the person wavering
Main reasons are the amount of people taken a photograph of of the fish more, it is apt to form the quiet , gentle individual character . In addition, there are many dishes that the meal compares with absorbing amount of the bread, there is no food of change nature, sour and scarce to cause the protein and essential ammonia, and the vitamin is insufficient. So must change into the eating habit taking meat as the centre , and want a large amount of edible vegetables at the same time , especially eat more food of group of vitamin B , C , A; To the judgement, calm and form supporting oneself , positive individual character , eat some hot food once in a while , there are unexpected results too.
Third, timid person
Adjust the food structure , often take the honey with fruit juice , drink on a small quantity, eat more alkaline food and food with abundant calcium. calcium.
The following is that the medical expert, for the diet " prescription " of adjusting mood and opening, there is no harm in trying it.
First, regard oneself as the centre, assume office as the person of the feeling
The main reason is partial to a limited variety of food causes nutrition to be insufficient, and eat and drink immoderately , thus form the extreme , individual character of lurching. It should give up the sugar and absorb the excessive habit first to change this mood, the fish , meat eat more than one time more than now , eat more greenish-yellow vegetables and carrot, but don't eat the over-salty food to make sure to keep in mind, it is so apt to become the anxious individual character , fall short of success for lack of final effort.
Second , indecision, the person wavering
Main reasons are the amount of people taken a photograph of of the fish more, it is apt to form the quiet , gentle individual character . In addition, there are many dishes that the meal compares with absorbing amount of the bread, there is no food of change nature, sour and scarce to cause the protein and essential ammonia, and the vitamin is insufficient. So must change into the eating habit taking meat as the centre , and want a large amount of edible vegetables at the same time , especially eat more food of group of vitamin B , C , A; To the judgement, calm and form supporting oneself , positive individual character , eat some hot food once in a while , there are unexpected results too.
Third, timid person
Adjust the food structure , often take the honey with fruit juice , drink on a small quantity, eat more alkaline food and food with abundant calcium. calcium.
Life Insurance Basics
One of the most important things you can do as parents is to ensure the financial welfare of your children in the event of your death. life insurance is the best way to be rest assured that your children will be taken care of if you die. Although we never like to think of that kind of thing happening, but it does.
What is life insurance
Life insurance is a policy that you can enter with your insurance company, which promises a certain amount to your beneficiary(ies) in the event of your death. Usually, a spouse will name the other spouse as well as their children as beneficiaries of the policy. As part of the agreement with life insurance, your insurance policy will be a monetary value, that you will in return, pay a monthly premium for. Premiums usually depend on your age, gender, occupation, medical history and other factors.
There are other types of life insurance that may provide benefits for you and for your family while you are still living. These policies can accrue a cash value on a tax-deferred basis and can be used for future needs such as retirement or your child's education.
Do I Need life insurance
Earning an income allows you and your family to do many things. It pays for your mortgage, buys cars, food, clothing, vacations and many other luxuries that you and your family enjoy. However, certain situations can cause you to lose your income, and those who depend on you also depend on your income. If any of the following statements about you and your family are true, then it is probably a good idea for you to consider life insurance.
1) You are married and have a spouse.
2) You have children who are dependent on you.
3) You have a parent or relative who is aging, or disable and depends on you.
4) You have a loved one in your life that you wish to provide for.
5) Your 401K retirement plan, pension and savings aren't enough to insure your loved one's future.
What Are My life insurance Options
There are four basic types of life insurance that can meet you and your family's needs:
Term life insurance
This is the least expensive type of life insurance coverage, and at least at the beginning, the simplest. Term life insurance policies do not accrue cash value, and are fixed over an extended period of time - usually one to 0 years, and they can be renewed. This life insurance policy pays the beneficiary of your policy a fixed amount in the even that you die in the period of time that your policy includes. The premiums of term life insurance are lowest when you are young and increase as you get older
What is life insurance
Life insurance is a policy that you can enter with your insurance company, which promises a certain amount to your beneficiary(ies) in the event of your death. Usually, a spouse will name the other spouse as well as their children as beneficiaries of the policy. As part of the agreement with life insurance, your insurance policy will be a monetary value, that you will in return, pay a monthly premium for. Premiums usually depend on your age, gender, occupation, medical history and other factors.
There are other types of life insurance that may provide benefits for you and for your family while you are still living. These policies can accrue a cash value on a tax-deferred basis and can be used for future needs such as retirement or your child's education.
Do I Need life insurance
Earning an income allows you and your family to do many things. It pays for your mortgage, buys cars, food, clothing, vacations and many other luxuries that you and your family enjoy. However, certain situations can cause you to lose your income, and those who depend on you also depend on your income. If any of the following statements about you and your family are true, then it is probably a good idea for you to consider life insurance.
1) You are married and have a spouse.
2) You have children who are dependent on you.
3) You have a parent or relative who is aging, or disable and depends on you.
4) You have a loved one in your life that you wish to provide for.
5) Your 401K retirement plan, pension and savings aren't enough to insure your loved one's future.
What Are My life insurance Options
There are four basic types of life insurance that can meet you and your family's needs:
Term life insurance
This is the least expensive type of life insurance coverage, and at least at the beginning, the simplest. Term life insurance policies do not accrue cash value, and are fixed over an extended period of time - usually one to 0 years, and they can be renewed. This life insurance policy pays the beneficiary of your policy a fixed amount in the even that you die in the period of time that your policy includes. The premiums of term life insurance are lowest when you are young and increase as you get older
The Importance of Travel Insurance
You've finally saved enough to go on that dream vacation you've been planning. Now you're wondering if you should buy travel insurance. Do I really need to go to the extra expense? All I can lose is my luggage, right?
Guess again! Anything can go wrong while you are traveling, and I strongly favor buying a policy.
Most travel insurance policies are designed for a variety of travel needs but, I emphatically advise reading the fine print of any policy you purchase regarding any deductibles and health situations. You many find your policy won't cover pre-existing conditions that may cause a problem, or that the medical coverage is only for an injury or an illness -- not both. For emergency aid, travel insurance polices are generally dependable and affordable, but there are still a myriad of gaps in the coverage provided.
You can find polices designed for almost any type of trip you may be planning, such as a single trip for hunting, backpacking, cruises, house rentals, and a host of others. But, the specific types and amounts of coverage you get depend on the policy you choose. It's important to remember that you will only be covered for what is specifically stated in your policy and for nothing else.
Most policies cover trip cancellation, lost baggage, medical, dental, and accidental death coverage. Other policies include emergency evacuation, 24 hour travel assistance, and trip or baggage delay. You may even find policies that include options for collision or damage to rented cars and Business conflicts. There are many options that can be covered, but you will have to ask.
The premiums for the policies are generally 5% to 7% the cost of your trip, but fees will vary depending on the your medical history and passengers ages. Many companies offer policies that will include coverage for children at no extra charge.
It is best not to buy your travel insurance from your tour operator. I've listed a few reasons why it may be better to purchase through an insurance company separately.
Most travel insurance policies offered by the operator are less flexible to your individual needs;
Provide a lower amount of coverage;
May only cover a portion of the trip;
Your coverage may be secondary and the insurance will only pay for what you own private health or Homeowner's insurance does not cover;
May duplicate coverage you already have;
In the event the tour operator liquidates and goes belly up, you would lose not only your trip, but also your premium.
Many travel agents are not fully knowledgeable when it comes to understanding the details of various travel insurance policies and may overlook something that could be important to you or your family and few offer suggestions. Buying travel insurance may be less expensive purchasing through your tour operator or cruise line, but for the reasons listed above, you should really check around.
If you do choose to buy your policy from your tour operator, be sure to use a credit card. Depending on the policy of the credit card issuer, you may be provided with protection against potential default of the operator.
When buying your policy from an insurance company:
Always get quotes from several companies
Ask if the plan is pre-packaged or if you can custom design your own
Can you waive the pre-existing condition exclusion
Ask if you are covered for cancellation due to a terrorist incident. Don't count of the company to provide information
Guess again! Anything can go wrong while you are traveling, and I strongly favor buying a policy.
Most travel insurance policies are designed for a variety of travel needs but, I emphatically advise reading the fine print of any policy you purchase regarding any deductibles and health situations. You many find your policy won't cover pre-existing conditions that may cause a problem, or that the medical coverage is only for an injury or an illness -- not both. For emergency aid, travel insurance polices are generally dependable and affordable, but there are still a myriad of gaps in the coverage provided.
You can find polices designed for almost any type of trip you may be planning, such as a single trip for hunting, backpacking, cruises, house rentals, and a host of others. But, the specific types and amounts of coverage you get depend on the policy you choose. It's important to remember that you will only be covered for what is specifically stated in your policy and for nothing else.
Most policies cover trip cancellation, lost baggage, medical, dental, and accidental death coverage. Other policies include emergency evacuation, 24 hour travel assistance, and trip or baggage delay. You may even find policies that include options for collision or damage to rented cars and Business conflicts. There are many options that can be covered, but you will have to ask.
The premiums for the policies are generally 5% to 7% the cost of your trip, but fees will vary depending on the your medical history and passengers ages. Many companies offer policies that will include coverage for children at no extra charge.
It is best not to buy your travel insurance from your tour operator. I've listed a few reasons why it may be better to purchase through an insurance company separately.
Most travel insurance policies offered by the operator are less flexible to your individual needs;
Provide a lower amount of coverage;
May only cover a portion of the trip;
Your coverage may be secondary and the insurance will only pay for what you own private health or Homeowner's insurance does not cover;
May duplicate coverage you already have;
In the event the tour operator liquidates and goes belly up, you would lose not only your trip, but also your premium.
Many travel agents are not fully knowledgeable when it comes to understanding the details of various travel insurance policies and may overlook something that could be important to you or your family and few offer suggestions. Buying travel insurance may be less expensive purchasing through your tour operator or cruise line, but for the reasons listed above, you should really check around.
If you do choose to buy your policy from your tour operator, be sure to use a credit card. Depending on the policy of the credit card issuer, you may be provided with protection against potential default of the operator.
When buying your policy from an insurance company:
Always get quotes from several companies
Ask if the plan is pre-packaged or if you can custom design your own
Can you waive the pre-existing condition exclusion
Ask if you are covered for cancellation due to a terrorist incident. Don't count of the company to provide information
The Great Value Of Accident Photographs
You were humming along on a bright and sunny day when suddenly Fred Fuddle, a local character from a nearby town, drunk as a skunk and zooming along in his pickup, flew through stop sign crashing into the right front of your motor vehicle. You had no choice to avoid him. Now the time has come to settle your claim for property damage and personal injuries. Let's talk about photographs one of the basics that should have been taking place - - just as soon as possible - - after that impact had taken place.
PHOTOGRAPHS OF INJURIES: Photographs are often the best evidence you can produce to increase the value of your claim. If your accident causes bodily injuries that are visible (such as bruises, deep cuts, swellings, lacerations, dislocations and/or black and blue marks) it's crucial, to the ultimate settlement value of your case, that you have photographs taken of those just as soon as possible! Take them from 3 feet away and also as close as you can so as to capture the seriousness of heir existence. When you hand those to Adjuster I. M. Smart from the Granite insurance Company believe me when I tell you he'll stare at them and blanch!
Question: "How does Dan know this to be so"?
Answer: "Because for 38 years Dan was there and felt that"!
PHOTOGRAPHS OF BOTH VEHICLES: You should take photographs of the damages to your vehicle from several different angles. If at all possible find the motor vehicle that hit you and take photographs of that damage also. When it comes to proving the impact your body was subjected to (and in many cases to prove who was at fault) those photographs could one day be worth their weight in gold.
HOW TO TAKE PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE ACCIDENT SCENE: The pictures of each accident scene should be taken from at least three different angles: Snap several of a "general view" of the area from about 20 to 40 feet away; a couple more "medium range" shot's from 10 to 15 feet away, and then some "close up" shot's from 3 to 5 feet away. If it's at all possible all three different distances should have a common point or orientation. If, for example, you're snapping photographs of a skid mark, it should be taken from an angle so as to clearly show were that skid mark is, in relation to a landmark, like a street sign, a building, a fire hydrant, etc. Another photograph should then be taken with a closer view - - one clearly identifying the skid mark in detail - -and also, if possible, include this readily identifiable object or landmark (the street signs, building's, etc.).
Because they're such potent evidence you should blow up those photographs of the skid marks, taken from 3 to 6 feet away, into 8X10 glossies. A total of 12 to 15 photographs of the accident scene and/or the skid marks are not too many. When you hand copies of the 8X10 glossy photograph's of those skid marks to the adjuster, to help justify he payment he'll eventually make to you, it will absolutely increase the value of your claim.
"Why" you ask?
The answer to that one is, "Because it will tell both adjuster Smart and his supervisor (who, in the end, will usually call the shots on how much your settlement dollars should be) that you know what you're doing and you're not the type of individual who can be taken advantage of".
A WORD OF CAUTION: The individual engaged in the task of snapping photograph's of your body, the accident scene, etc., should be careful to make sure they're not undertaking this effort with a casual, hasty or careless attitude - - one that tends to leave it up to do the camera to do the thinking for them. Rather, the photographer ought to carefully consider the process the process slowly and seriously so that the photos produced will produce the maximum value.
If at all possible photos should be taken of the exact location on the road where the impact occurred, and shots of all relevant gouge and/or chop marks on the surface, plus traffic signs, etc., as applicable.
It cannot be emphasized enough that photographs of skid marks are invaluable evidence, since they can often indicate Fuddle's speed at the time of impact and can be a tremendous asset when it comes to establishing fault.
A good practice to follow is to make a brief notation on the backs of all photos, entering upon them a brief account of what the photo is showing, the date it was taken and by whom.
Photographs of injuries, the accident scene and the road surface if done correctly - - is money in the bank !
PHOTOGRAPHS OF INJURIES: Photographs are often the best evidence you can produce to increase the value of your claim. If your accident causes bodily injuries that are visible (such as bruises, deep cuts, swellings, lacerations, dislocations and/or black and blue marks) it's crucial, to the ultimate settlement value of your case, that you have photographs taken of those just as soon as possible! Take them from 3 feet away and also as close as you can so as to capture the seriousness of heir existence. When you hand those to Adjuster I. M. Smart from the Granite insurance Company believe me when I tell you he'll stare at them and blanch!
Question: "How does Dan know this to be so"?
Answer: "Because for 38 years Dan was there and felt that"!
PHOTOGRAPHS OF BOTH VEHICLES: You should take photographs of the damages to your vehicle from several different angles. If at all possible find the motor vehicle that hit you and take photographs of that damage also. When it comes to proving the impact your body was subjected to (and in many cases to prove who was at fault) those photographs could one day be worth their weight in gold.
HOW TO TAKE PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE ACCIDENT SCENE: The pictures of each accident scene should be taken from at least three different angles: Snap several of a "general view" of the area from about 20 to 40 feet away; a couple more "medium range" shot's from 10 to 15 feet away, and then some "close up" shot's from 3 to 5 feet away. If it's at all possible all three different distances should have a common point or orientation. If, for example, you're snapping photographs of a skid mark, it should be taken from an angle so as to clearly show were that skid mark is, in relation to a landmark, like a street sign, a building, a fire hydrant, etc. Another photograph should then be taken with a closer view - - one clearly identifying the skid mark in detail - -and also, if possible, include this readily identifiable object or landmark (the street signs, building's, etc.).
Because they're such potent evidence you should blow up those photographs of the skid marks, taken from 3 to 6 feet away, into 8X10 glossies. A total of 12 to 15 photographs of the accident scene and/or the skid marks are not too many. When you hand copies of the 8X10 glossy photograph's of those skid marks to the adjuster, to help justify he payment he'll eventually make to you, it will absolutely increase the value of your claim.
"Why" you ask?
The answer to that one is, "Because it will tell both adjuster Smart and his supervisor (who, in the end, will usually call the shots on how much your settlement dollars should be) that you know what you're doing and you're not the type of individual who can be taken advantage of".
A WORD OF CAUTION: The individual engaged in the task of snapping photograph's of your body, the accident scene, etc., should be careful to make sure they're not undertaking this effort with a casual, hasty or careless attitude - - one that tends to leave it up to do the camera to do the thinking for them. Rather, the photographer ought to carefully consider the process the process slowly and seriously so that the photos produced will produce the maximum value.
If at all possible photos should be taken of the exact location on the road where the impact occurred, and shots of all relevant gouge and/or chop marks on the surface, plus traffic signs, etc., as applicable.
It cannot be emphasized enough that photographs of skid marks are invaluable evidence, since they can often indicate Fuddle's speed at the time of impact and can be a tremendous asset when it comes to establishing fault.
A good practice to follow is to make a brief notation on the backs of all photos, entering upon them a brief account of what the photo is showing, the date it was taken and by whom.
Photographs of injuries, the accident scene and the road surface if done correctly - - is money in the bank !
Life Insurance: Who Needs It And How Much Do You Need?
Your friendly, neighborhood life insurance agent is most likely to answer this question with the word "everybody."
The fact is, not everybody does need life insurance. If you don't have a family, you probably don't need life insurance unless, of course, you're a really nice person and just want to leave some money to a friend or a charity.
If you do have a family, the question isn't do you need life insurance. The question is how much do you need?
A life insurance sales representative may want you to apply some kind of formula. In years gone by, he or she might have told you that you need to buy insurance equal to four times your annual salary. So, if your annual salary is $50,000, you might have been told you need at least a $200,000 policy. Today, the same agent might tell you that you need eight times your annual salary or a $400,000 policy.
In most cases, this is probably too simplistic an approach, as it tends to assume that you are your family's sole provider.
Today, there are a number of other factors that should be taken into consideration. Does your spouse work or is he/she a stay-at-Home mom or dad? Are you a single mother or father? And where does that put you? How old are your children? Will your surviving spouse be raising kids for three years or 15? If your spouse works, how much does he or she earn? If something should happen to you, is there family nearby that could help raise your kids or is the nearest family 1,000 miles away?
Let's take a hypothetical example. Jim W. is 45 years old, earns $75,000 a year and has two kids age 15 and 17. Jim's wife, Martha is 43 and earns $50,000 a year. Jim and Martha believe their kids are college material. How much life insurance does Jim need? Let's assume $25,000 a year times the two boys, times four years. That's $200,000. Jim also wants to make sure Martha lives comfortably for the rest of her working life and figures she'll need an additional $25,000 a year to do this. Multiply this $25,000 by 22 and that's $550,000. Add this to the cost of the boys' college, and Jim needs at least a $750,000 life insurance policy ... and that doesn't include anything for Martha's retirement!
Now, compare this to Beth who is the single mother of a boy, Robbie, age eight and a girl, Kinsey, age 12. How much insurance does Beth need? There's no spouse but if anything happens to her, the kids will go to her sister, and the sister will need financial help. So, assume $10,000 a year to the sister for 16 years -- $160,000 - plus college for the kids at $200,000. This adds up to a policy of maybe $360,000. See the difference that circumstances can make?
Before you purchase a policy, sit down and figure out who will need to be taken care of, for how long they will need the help and, realistically, what that help should consist of. If you die this should not be like winning the lottery for your survivors. Don't buy so much insurance that you will be really strapped for all those years before you pass on.
The fact is, not everybody does need life insurance. If you don't have a family, you probably don't need life insurance unless, of course, you're a really nice person and just want to leave some money to a friend or a charity.
If you do have a family, the question isn't do you need life insurance. The question is how much do you need?
A life insurance sales representative may want you to apply some kind of formula. In years gone by, he or she might have told you that you need to buy insurance equal to four times your annual salary. So, if your annual salary is $50,000, you might have been told you need at least a $200,000 policy. Today, the same agent might tell you that you need eight times your annual salary or a $400,000 policy.
In most cases, this is probably too simplistic an approach, as it tends to assume that you are your family's sole provider.
Today, there are a number of other factors that should be taken into consideration. Does your spouse work or is he/she a stay-at-Home mom or dad? Are you a single mother or father? And where does that put you? How old are your children? Will your surviving spouse be raising kids for three years or 15? If your spouse works, how much does he or she earn? If something should happen to you, is there family nearby that could help raise your kids or is the nearest family 1,000 miles away?
Let's take a hypothetical example. Jim W. is 45 years old, earns $75,000 a year and has two kids age 15 and 17. Jim's wife, Martha is 43 and earns $50,000 a year. Jim and Martha believe their kids are college material. How much life insurance does Jim need? Let's assume $25,000 a year times the two boys, times four years. That's $200,000. Jim also wants to make sure Martha lives comfortably for the rest of her working life and figures she'll need an additional $25,000 a year to do this. Multiply this $25,000 by 22 and that's $550,000. Add this to the cost of the boys' college, and Jim needs at least a $750,000 life insurance policy ... and that doesn't include anything for Martha's retirement!
Now, compare this to Beth who is the single mother of a boy, Robbie, age eight and a girl, Kinsey, age 12. How much insurance does Beth need? There's no spouse but if anything happens to her, the kids will go to her sister, and the sister will need financial help. So, assume $10,000 a year to the sister for 16 years -- $160,000 - plus college for the kids at $200,000. This adds up to a policy of maybe $360,000. See the difference that circumstances can make?
Before you purchase a policy, sit down and figure out who will need to be taken care of, for how long they will need the help and, realistically, what that help should consist of. If you die this should not be like winning the lottery for your survivors. Don't buy so much insurance that you will be really strapped for all those years before you pass on.
Health Savings Accounts (HSA): Do They Vary From State to State?
The health Savings Account (HSA) is an amazing tool that a lot of people have been talking about. It is meant to help you save money on insurance and make your life simpler, maybe even help you be healthier.
Is this tool available in all states? And are HSAs in each state the same?
The health Savings Account (HSA) was passed in the U.S. Congress in December 2003. It was signed by President George W. Bush. That means it is a federal law. The HSA is available in every state in the Union.
However, the availability of the HSA may vary. Since this product is relatively new, not all insurance agents and financial advisors have caught on to it. Many do not know it exists yet, and not all of them offer it to their clients.
But as acceptance of HSAs grows, more and more insurance agents, advisors and even banks are beginning to offer them.
The simplest place to find an HSA is with an insurance agent. I say it is the simplest because it is easiest to purchase your HSA and your high-deductible health insurance policy in one place. If you do not purchase them in one place, you have to provide written proof to the HSA agent that you do, indeed, have a high-deductible policy. If you can't prove that you are insured, and that the deductible is over $1,000 for an individual and $2,000 for a family, they cannot give you an HSA.
Insurance agents are also the most likely to have an in-depth knowledge of HSAs. I haven't tried to get an HSA at a bank, but I think it's likely that the expertise of personal bankers will not be as great as that of the average insurance agent. That's just my opinion.
health Savings Accounts are growing in popularity every day. They provide an excellent way to save thousands of dollars on insurance, and they are the true solution for the self-employed and the small Business owner. And HSAs are available today!
Is this tool available in all states? And are HSAs in each state the same?
The health Savings Account (HSA) was passed in the U.S. Congress in December 2003. It was signed by President George W. Bush. That means it is a federal law. The HSA is available in every state in the Union.
However, the availability of the HSA may vary. Since this product is relatively new, not all insurance agents and financial advisors have caught on to it. Many do not know it exists yet, and not all of them offer it to their clients.
But as acceptance of HSAs grows, more and more insurance agents, advisors and even banks are beginning to offer them.
The simplest place to find an HSA is with an insurance agent. I say it is the simplest because it is easiest to purchase your HSA and your high-deductible health insurance policy in one place. If you do not purchase them in one place, you have to provide written proof to the HSA agent that you do, indeed, have a high-deductible policy. If you can't prove that you are insured, and that the deductible is over $1,000 for an individual and $2,000 for a family, they cannot give you an HSA.
Insurance agents are also the most likely to have an in-depth knowledge of HSAs. I haven't tried to get an HSA at a bank, but I think it's likely that the expertise of personal bankers will not be as great as that of the average insurance agent. That's just my opinion.
health Savings Accounts are growing in popularity every day. They provide an excellent way to save thousands of dollars on insurance, and they are the true solution for the self-employed and the small Business owner. And HSAs are available today!
Car Insurance Advice for Young Drivers in the UK
Over the course of the last ten years, car insurance for young drivers in the UK has increased substantially.
This has caused many problems for new drivers with premiums averaging 1300 for a newly qualified 17 year old male driver.
Young female drivers pay a lot less for their policies due to their reduced risk of being involved in an accident. EEC law is looking to make this a discrimination issue but insurance companies and representative groups are opposing this move.
The main factors which will effect your insurance premium are listed below;
The Vehicle - Choosing the right vehicle will have a massive impact on your premium. As a guide, look at the insurance group of the car. The grouping structure runs from Group 1 to Group 20 and your insurance premium will increase as you move through the groups. Use the link below to our web site and use the car grouping guide which will give you an indication of which vehicles fall into which groups. Do not however rely on either guesswork or a basic group guide when choosing a car. Even a subtle difference in model of vehicle could effect your premium massively - Get quotes on every type of car you are looking at before deciding on buying one.
Where you live - Not a lot you can do about this but in some areas of the UK you are twice as likely to have your car stolen. In London you are 50% more likely to be involved in an accident - Your premium will reflect where you lice.
Pass Plus - If you have just passed your test, seriously consider pass plus. This will give you discounts of up to 20% off your insurance premium. The course costs 120 so can be very effective at saving you money and improving your driving skills.
Type of Cover - As a first time driver you will normally be restricted to third party fire and theft cover because of the costs involved. Consider third party only cover also.
There are no shortcuts when insuring your first car but there is a silver lining to that horrible first premium. A safe years driving will result in a drop in your premium of around 50% in the following year.
17 to 40 is a web site dedicated to providing information and quotes for young driver insurance in the UK
This has caused many problems for new drivers with premiums averaging 1300 for a newly qualified 17 year old male driver.
Young female drivers pay a lot less for their policies due to their reduced risk of being involved in an accident. EEC law is looking to make this a discrimination issue but insurance companies and representative groups are opposing this move.
The main factors which will effect your insurance premium are listed below;
The Vehicle - Choosing the right vehicle will have a massive impact on your premium. As a guide, look at the insurance group of the car. The grouping structure runs from Group 1 to Group 20 and your insurance premium will increase as you move through the groups. Use the link below to our web site and use the car grouping guide which will give you an indication of which vehicles fall into which groups. Do not however rely on either guesswork or a basic group guide when choosing a car. Even a subtle difference in model of vehicle could effect your premium massively - Get quotes on every type of car you are looking at before deciding on buying one.
Where you live - Not a lot you can do about this but in some areas of the UK you are twice as likely to have your car stolen. In London you are 50% more likely to be involved in an accident - Your premium will reflect where you lice.
Pass Plus - If you have just passed your test, seriously consider pass plus. This will give you discounts of up to 20% off your insurance premium. The course costs 120 so can be very effective at saving you money and improving your driving skills.
Type of Cover - As a first time driver you will normally be restricted to third party fire and theft cover because of the costs involved. Consider third party only cover also.
There are no shortcuts when insuring your first car but there is a silver lining to that horrible first premium. A safe years driving will result in a drop in your premium of around 50% in the following year.
17 to 40 is a web site dedicated to providing information and quotes for young driver insurance in the UK
What to Look for in Good Health Insurance
Health insurance is a kind of protection that provides payment of benefits for covered sickness or injury. Included in health insurance are various types of insurance such as accident insurance, disability income insurance, medical expense insurance, and accidental death and dismemberment insurance.
Before sign the health insurance policy make sure that you have read thoroughly the benefit's section. Take note of any health care service that is not covered by your health insurance policy. Also, pay specific attention to how the health insurance policy is worded. Sometimes, health insurance companies hide the health insurance coverage exclusions within the definitions of words.
For instance, a health insurance company may define the term 'emergency' as anything that is life threatening condition that cannot be reasonably treated by a primary care physician. Whereas, your definition of 'emergency' may be anything that requires quick medical attention.
Clearly, there is conflict for the two definitions. If you find yourself in an emergency situation where you incur a broker arm, for instance, your insurance company may deny coverage for emergency room treatment of a broken arm for the reason that the broken arm does not fall under the life threatening category.
Therefore, you should read over carefully the health insurance policy definitions, paying close attention to the seven key words:
medical emergency medically necessary accidental injury experimental or investigational pre certification pre-existing condition, and reasonable and customary
These words and any words that are open to interpretation should be regarded with wariness. Find out how your health insurance company defines each of these.
Finally, find the section describing the procedures you must follow in order for your insurance company to reimburse you. These policy conditions or prerequisites are typically worded in a positive tone. Read through each condition carefully, make notes and call your health insurance company with any questions.
You should also compare health insurance contracts before you sign one. In order to compare exclusions, take two policy contracts and find the exclusions sections. If you want to compare a number of health insurance contracts then you could use an online service.
After you obtain your free quote for the health coverage you desire, apply for it online, and you'll obtain all the information that you'll need to compare exclusions of each health insurance policy (though sometimes this will require more research.)
Copyright 2005 Mike Spencer
Mike Spencer recently became unemployed and moved into self employment. He was forced to find his own health insurance plan to protect his family. It wasn't as easy as he first thought. Here he shares the pitfall
s of various plans and what you need to look out for when picking a good plan for you
Before sign the health insurance policy make sure that you have read thoroughly the benefit's section. Take note of any health care service that is not covered by your health insurance policy. Also, pay specific attention to how the health insurance policy is worded. Sometimes, health insurance companies hide the health insurance coverage exclusions within the definitions of words.
For instance, a health insurance company may define the term 'emergency' as anything that is life threatening condition that cannot be reasonably treated by a primary care physician. Whereas, your definition of 'emergency' may be anything that requires quick medical attention.
Clearly, there is conflict for the two definitions. If you find yourself in an emergency situation where you incur a broker arm, for instance, your insurance company may deny coverage for emergency room treatment of a broken arm for the reason that the broken arm does not fall under the life threatening category.
Therefore, you should read over carefully the health insurance policy definitions, paying close attention to the seven key words:
medical emergency medically necessary accidental injury experimental or investigational pre certification pre-existing condition, and reasonable and customary
These words and any words that are open to interpretation should be regarded with wariness. Find out how your health insurance company defines each of these.
Finally, find the section describing the procedures you must follow in order for your insurance company to reimburse you. These policy conditions or prerequisites are typically worded in a positive tone. Read through each condition carefully, make notes and call your health insurance company with any questions.
You should also compare health insurance contracts before you sign one. In order to compare exclusions, take two policy contracts and find the exclusions sections. If you want to compare a number of health insurance contracts then you could use an online service.
After you obtain your free quote for the health coverage you desire, apply for it online, and you'll obtain all the information that you'll need to compare exclusions of each health insurance policy (though sometimes this will require more research.)
Copyright 2005 Mike Spencer
Mike Spencer recently became unemployed and moved into self employment. He was forced to find his own health insurance plan to protect his family. It wasn't as easy as he first thought. Here he shares the pitfall
s of various plans and what you need to look out for when picking a good plan for you
Car Insurance Discounts
Trying to save money wherever you can is important to us all. Insurance should be no different. Do not assume that your agent knows everything about you and your vehicle. Carinsurance.com goes out of their way to find all the possible discounts that are available to each customer.
Drivers should take advantage of all discounts that many providers offer, that can significantly reduce the cost of car insurance. Understanding discounts and how they can affect auto insurance premiums can help smart shoppers make better decisions about their coverage and possibly save themselves some money in the process.
Read below to identify possible discounts that could help you save on auto insurance this year. Other than discounts, there may be some other ways for you to save on your insurance premiums. We will go over several discounts that can help with your current situation.
First, there are discounts for Auto Safety features. Certain states will give you discounts for anti-lock breaks. Make sure you know if it is two or four wheel anti-lock break vehicle. Automatic seatbelts and airbags are frequently discounted on your insurance premiums. In most states, a defensive driver class discount may apply. If the principal driver usually 55 years old or older has completed an approved defensive driving class a discount could apply. Keep in mind that most states will only approve this class if it is voluntary meaning that it was not the result of a violation or infraction.
Some insurers will give you a discount for having multiple vehicles. In some cases, this will only apply if you have two or more drivers. If you have a clean driving record, meaning you do not have any tickets, accidents or suspensions in the last three years (some companies require five years) then you could be eligible for a safe driver's discount.
Many companies will reward you with staying with the same insurance company for many years without any accidents reported. They will offer you a renewal discount. It makes sense, you have carried insurance with a company for several years, and have not had an accident, your insurance company likes you and wants to reward and keep your Business. Some companies honor you with a discount if you had prior limits on your previous policy. They discount you because they understand you are a better risk.
Conversely, if you do decided to change insurers a proof of prior insurance discount may apply. Most insurers request at least 6 months of consecutive insurance from the previous insurer. If you are a full-time student who meets certain grade requirements and are unmarried and usually under 25 years of age (some states the age is 21) you could be eligible for a good student discount. If you own a home, including condominium, town home, or mobile Home, which is used as a principal residence, a discount could apply. Military personnel either currently active or retired from any branch of the US military a discount could apply. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, a discount could apply.
You could lower the cost of your insurance in other ways. For people who own older cars, it may not be necessary or cost-effective to protect them with collision and comprehensive coverage. By comparing the book value of your vehicle and the premium that the insurer has offered, you may find that it cost as much for the insurance as it does for the vehicle. If the car is worth less than $2,000, you will probably spend more insuring it than it is worth. The whole idea of driving an older car is to save money, so why not get what is coming to you.
In addition, keep in mind that the type of vehicle you buy could greatly affect your premium. A flashy red sports car is usually going to cost more to insure than a mid sized sedan. This is also true of vehicles that are on the list of most stolen. There are many ways that policyholders can save on their insurance. Knowing more about auto policies and premiums can help consumers take advantage of less obvious discounts while ensuring that they have the appropriate protection for their vehicles. The last way to save is to assume more risk. If you chose higher deductible on your Personal Injury Protection or Comprehensive and collision coverage will lower your premium as well. The deductible is the amount of money you have to pay before your insurance company begins paying the rest.
Understanding how discounts affect your insurance rates is important to save you money.
Drivers should take advantage of all discounts that many providers offer, that can significantly reduce the cost of car insurance. Understanding discounts and how they can affect auto insurance premiums can help smart shoppers make better decisions about their coverage and possibly save themselves some money in the process.
Read below to identify possible discounts that could help you save on auto insurance this year. Other than discounts, there may be some other ways for you to save on your insurance premiums. We will go over several discounts that can help with your current situation.
First, there are discounts for Auto Safety features. Certain states will give you discounts for anti-lock breaks. Make sure you know if it is two or four wheel anti-lock break vehicle. Automatic seatbelts and airbags are frequently discounted on your insurance premiums. In most states, a defensive driver class discount may apply. If the principal driver usually 55 years old or older has completed an approved defensive driving class a discount could apply. Keep in mind that most states will only approve this class if it is voluntary meaning that it was not the result of a violation or infraction.
Some insurers will give you a discount for having multiple vehicles. In some cases, this will only apply if you have two or more drivers. If you have a clean driving record, meaning you do not have any tickets, accidents or suspensions in the last three years (some companies require five years) then you could be eligible for a safe driver's discount.
Many companies will reward you with staying with the same insurance company for many years without any accidents reported. They will offer you a renewal discount. It makes sense, you have carried insurance with a company for several years, and have not had an accident, your insurance company likes you and wants to reward and keep your Business. Some companies honor you with a discount if you had prior limits on your previous policy. They discount you because they understand you are a better risk.
Conversely, if you do decided to change insurers a proof of prior insurance discount may apply. Most insurers request at least 6 months of consecutive insurance from the previous insurer. If you are a full-time student who meets certain grade requirements and are unmarried and usually under 25 years of age (some states the age is 21) you could be eligible for a good student discount. If you own a home, including condominium, town home, or mobile Home, which is used as a principal residence, a discount could apply. Military personnel either currently active or retired from any branch of the US military a discount could apply. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, a discount could apply.
You could lower the cost of your insurance in other ways. For people who own older cars, it may not be necessary or cost-effective to protect them with collision and comprehensive coverage. By comparing the book value of your vehicle and the premium that the insurer has offered, you may find that it cost as much for the insurance as it does for the vehicle. If the car is worth less than $2,000, you will probably spend more insuring it than it is worth. The whole idea of driving an older car is to save money, so why not get what is coming to you.
In addition, keep in mind that the type of vehicle you buy could greatly affect your premium. A flashy red sports car is usually going to cost more to insure than a mid sized sedan. This is also true of vehicles that are on the list of most stolen. There are many ways that policyholders can save on their insurance. Knowing more about auto policies and premiums can help consumers take advantage of less obvious discounts while ensuring that they have the appropriate protection for their vehicles. The last way to save is to assume more risk. If you chose higher deductible on your Personal Injury Protection or Comprehensive and collision coverage will lower your premium as well. The deductible is the amount of money you have to pay before your insurance company begins paying the rest.
Understanding how discounts affect your insurance rates is important to save you money.
Do Insurance Premiums Increase Every Year?
Many people ask, "If I am supposed to get a renewal discount, why do my premiums seem to increase with each renewal?" The answer is not always so simple. Each year, new vehicles cost more then they did the previous year. It will probably cost more to fix a damaged vehicle than it did last year, or five years ago when you first bought your current policy. However, in many cases, your renewal premium will be less. Some factors that contribute to decreases in your premiums are straightforward.
According to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.), the cost of auto insurance is expected to rise only 3.5% in 2004, the smallest increase over the last four years. Why? The number of auto accidents is on the decline due to better drivers and safer cars as well as crackdowns on fraud and abuse. However, due to the rising costs for medical care, vehicle repairs and skyrocketing jury awards the potential of price increases remain a problem. Rising automobile theft rates and fraud will keep costs higher for motorists in some states, such as Florida, Massachusetts, and New York.
The projected increase represents a substantial slowdown from 2003 when auto insurance costs rose by 7.8 percent, the I.I.I. observed. The average cost for auto insurance nationwide for 2004 is estimated at $871, an increase of $29 per vehicle from last year.
Unfortunately, even though drivers are filing fewer claims these days, the claims that are filed are costing the insurance companies more than they used to. It is costing more to repair cars as the amount of damage sustained in crashes is up from what it was a few years ago. Some in the industry feel this is due to accidents involving sport utility vehicles.
The cost of medical coverage is also increasing. This year insurers could pay as much as $20 billion in medical claims. Higher costs for hospitalization, medical care, medication and associated legal costs are also to blame.
What can you expect to pay for insurance? In many cases, your renewal discount will offset a rate increase from your company. It can become hard to keep track of increases if you make many changes to your policy. When you move to a new residence or get a newer vehicle as these factors affect the rate you pay. Your driving record is also one of the factors the insurance company uses in determining your rate. Go to http://www.carinsurance.com. Not only will you get the rates of various insurance companies, you will see the A.M. Best rating for each company along side their rates for you personal situation.
Now is the time for your fingers to punch their way to a quick rate analysis and view the ratings at the same time.
Visit http://www.carinsurance.com to Check Out the Lowest Premiums Available!
According to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.), the cost of auto insurance is expected to rise only 3.5% in 2004, the smallest increase over the last four years. Why? The number of auto accidents is on the decline due to better drivers and safer cars as well as crackdowns on fraud and abuse. However, due to the rising costs for medical care, vehicle repairs and skyrocketing jury awards the potential of price increases remain a problem. Rising automobile theft rates and fraud will keep costs higher for motorists in some states, such as Florida, Massachusetts, and New York.
The projected increase represents a substantial slowdown from 2003 when auto insurance costs rose by 7.8 percent, the I.I.I. observed. The average cost for auto insurance nationwide for 2004 is estimated at $871, an increase of $29 per vehicle from last year.
Unfortunately, even though drivers are filing fewer claims these days, the claims that are filed are costing the insurance companies more than they used to. It is costing more to repair cars as the amount of damage sustained in crashes is up from what it was a few years ago. Some in the industry feel this is due to accidents involving sport utility vehicles.
The cost of medical coverage is also increasing. This year insurers could pay as much as $20 billion in medical claims. Higher costs for hospitalization, medical care, medication and associated legal costs are also to blame.
What can you expect to pay for insurance? In many cases, your renewal discount will offset a rate increase from your company. It can become hard to keep track of increases if you make many changes to your policy. When you move to a new residence or get a newer vehicle as these factors affect the rate you pay. Your driving record is also one of the factors the insurance company uses in determining your rate. Go to http://www.carinsurance.com. Not only will you get the rates of various insurance companies, you will see the A.M. Best rating for each company along side their rates for you personal situation.
Now is the time for your fingers to punch their way to a quick rate analysis and view the ratings at the same time.
Visit http://www.carinsurance.com to Check Out the Lowest Premiums Available!
The Many Benefits of Travel Protection Plans
Many people purchase insurance thinking I want full coverage and once I get it I will be covered for every event that may befall my vehicle. But then they begin to question if every type of incident is covered with full coverage. Some events that people question if they are covered for are: if my car breaks down what about towing costs or if I need a rental car does the insurance company pay? Towing service and rental service is not an automatic service that you are covered for but it can be easily added to a new policy purchase or during the renewal process.
There are many benefits for you with the travel protection plan that is offered with auto insurance policies. First of all this optional coverage does not cost you anything more on your initial down payment. That's right, nothing extra on your down payment. Whether you decide to add it or not you still pay the same down payment. This service is 100% financed into your monthly payments and for so much coverage the cost is very small!
The benefits for you are these:
If you are in an accident or if your car just breaks down, this service will reimburse you for towing service up to $50 each time you use it! If you need to be towed multiple times during your term no problem, you can use this towing plan as much as you need it. You are not required to use just one company either; you are able to use any company you wish.
Another benefit is that if your vehicle is disabled due to an accident or is stolen, you will be reimbursed for rental expenses up to $25 a day for as long as 10 days! If you are traveling, for example visiting family and are 250+ miles from home, this plan will also reimburse you for up to 5 days to get Home at $25 a day. Again you may use any company you wish for your rental. In addition any personal effects in a rental car that may be stolen or are lost due to fire in a rental car will be covered up to $300.
Many people, during their busy day, find themselves accidentally leaving his or her keys in their car just as they close the door. Normally one panics and wastes time trying to find a way to break into their own car or calling for some to come bring that extra key from Home. Most likely you still end up calling a locksmith to unlock the car and you won't be getting that money back. The travel protection plan saves you because it will reimburse you up to $25 for lock out service if this happens to you.
If you are unfortunate enough to be in an accident that requires you to be taken to a hospital, this plan is also helpful. When an ambulance is sent out to the accident site, you have to pay a service fee but the plan will reimburse up to $100 for this situation.
The final benefit worth mentioning is the bail bond service it provides. This plan will reimburse for up to $10,000 of bond expense if you are in a situation that would cause you to be incarcerated due to traffic violation. You may think you never get in trouble, but what if you were pulled over for driving with a suspended license because you failed to pay that old parking ticket you had forgotten about? Or what if you had a glass of wine at a nice restaurant and was stopped and considered to be over the local legal alcohol limit? You are not a criminal, but things like this sometimes do happen. If any of these examples occur, it is nice to know that you may be covered for bond service!
For just approximately 16 cents a day per car you can get all these great benefits. Peace of mind is also one of your greatest benefits from this plan. Again, your down payment will not go up at all! Why would you want to pay for any of these expenses and not get reimbursed? If any of these situations happen someone has to pay. It is either you or your insurance company so why not purchase this plan and have them pay.
There are many benefits for you with the travel protection plan that is offered with auto insurance policies. First of all this optional coverage does not cost you anything more on your initial down payment. That's right, nothing extra on your down payment. Whether you decide to add it or not you still pay the same down payment. This service is 100% financed into your monthly payments and for so much coverage the cost is very small!
The benefits for you are these:
If you are in an accident or if your car just breaks down, this service will reimburse you for towing service up to $50 each time you use it! If you need to be towed multiple times during your term no problem, you can use this towing plan as much as you need it. You are not required to use just one company either; you are able to use any company you wish.
Another benefit is that if your vehicle is disabled due to an accident or is stolen, you will be reimbursed for rental expenses up to $25 a day for as long as 10 days! If you are traveling, for example visiting family and are 250+ miles from home, this plan will also reimburse you for up to 5 days to get Home at $25 a day. Again you may use any company you wish for your rental. In addition any personal effects in a rental car that may be stolen or are lost due to fire in a rental car will be covered up to $300.
Many people, during their busy day, find themselves accidentally leaving his or her keys in their car just as they close the door. Normally one panics and wastes time trying to find a way to break into their own car or calling for some to come bring that extra key from Home. Most likely you still end up calling a locksmith to unlock the car and you won't be getting that money back. The travel protection plan saves you because it will reimburse you up to $25 for lock out service if this happens to you.
If you are unfortunate enough to be in an accident that requires you to be taken to a hospital, this plan is also helpful. When an ambulance is sent out to the accident site, you have to pay a service fee but the plan will reimburse up to $100 for this situation.
The final benefit worth mentioning is the bail bond service it provides. This plan will reimburse for up to $10,000 of bond expense if you are in a situation that would cause you to be incarcerated due to traffic violation. You may think you never get in trouble, but what if you were pulled over for driving with a suspended license because you failed to pay that old parking ticket you had forgotten about? Or what if you had a glass of wine at a nice restaurant and was stopped and considered to be over the local legal alcohol limit? You are not a criminal, but things like this sometimes do happen. If any of these examples occur, it is nice to know that you may be covered for bond service!
For just approximately 16 cents a day per car you can get all these great benefits. Peace of mind is also one of your greatest benefits from this plan. Again, your down payment will not go up at all! Why would you want to pay for any of these expenses and not get reimbursed? If any of these situations happen someone has to pay. It is either you or your insurance company so why not purchase this plan and have them pay.
Taking The Mystery Out Of Long-Term Care Insurance
enHere's the good news: with improvements in medical technology and healthier lifestyles, people are living longer. life expectancy today has increased to 83 years, up from 78 years in 1940 (The Shopper's Guide to Long-term Care Insurance from the National Association of insurance Commissioners).
However, the longer people live, the greater the chances they will need assistance due to chronic health conditions. Today, about 12.8 million Americans of all ages require some type of long-term care (National Academy on Aging, 1997). This number is expected to climb as the baby boomer generation moves into retirement. Over a lifetime, nearly 50 percent of all people will require some type of long-term care assistance.
One way to pay for some or all of your long-term care expenses is insurance. First introduced in the 1980s, long-term care insurance was originally designed as nursing home insurance. Today's long-term care policies now cover much more. They include Home health care, assisted living facility care, adult day care, Alzheimer's facility care, respite care and hospice care.
So how does long-term care insurance work? Long-term care insurance is not health insurance, and long-term care expenses are not covered under private health insurance, Medicare or Medicare supplement policies.
However, long-term care insurance is similar to health insurance in that an individual must apply for coverage by going through medical underwriting. The insurance company decides whether to offer long-term care coverage based on your current health conditions and age. In most instances, a person's medical records will be reviewed by the insurance company. Additionally, some applicants may be required to have a face-to-face or a telephone interview. Not everyone is insurable. People who already have health problems are likely to need long-term care but won't be able to buy a long-term care insurance policy. Your money may pay for long-term care insurance coverage, but it's your health that buys it.
Once a long-term care policy is issued, the insured individual becomes eligible to receive benefits once a healthcare professional certifies the insured is "chronically ill" -- unable to perform two of the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) for a period of 90 days or longer; or be severely cognitively impaired. ADLs include bathing, eating, dressing, toileting, transferring (moving into or out of a bed, chair or wheelchair) and continence.
"At what age should I apply for long-term care insurance?" Generally, experts suggest you apply between ages 50 and 55. The younger you are when you apply, the better the chance you will be healthy enough to qualify. It's also during these years prior to retirement that your income is normally at its highest and you're better able to pay the insurance premiums.
Long-term care insurance policies vary widely. A professional specializing in long-term care insurance can be a great resource to consumers in considering the many options available today.
Brent Dees, president of Brent Dees Financial, is a small business coach and financial planner w
However, the longer people live, the greater the chances they will need assistance due to chronic health conditions. Today, about 12.8 million Americans of all ages require some type of long-term care (National Academy on Aging, 1997). This number is expected to climb as the baby boomer generation moves into retirement. Over a lifetime, nearly 50 percent of all people will require some type of long-term care assistance.
One way to pay for some or all of your long-term care expenses is insurance. First introduced in the 1980s, long-term care insurance was originally designed as nursing home insurance. Today's long-term care policies now cover much more. They include Home health care, assisted living facility care, adult day care, Alzheimer's facility care, respite care and hospice care.
So how does long-term care insurance work? Long-term care insurance is not health insurance, and long-term care expenses are not covered under private health insurance, Medicare or Medicare supplement policies.
However, long-term care insurance is similar to health insurance in that an individual must apply for coverage by going through medical underwriting. The insurance company decides whether to offer long-term care coverage based on your current health conditions and age. In most instances, a person's medical records will be reviewed by the insurance company. Additionally, some applicants may be required to have a face-to-face or a telephone interview. Not everyone is insurable. People who already have health problems are likely to need long-term care but won't be able to buy a long-term care insurance policy. Your money may pay for long-term care insurance coverage, but it's your health that buys it.
Once a long-term care policy is issued, the insured individual becomes eligible to receive benefits once a healthcare professional certifies the insured is "chronically ill" -- unable to perform two of the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) for a period of 90 days or longer; or be severely cognitively impaired. ADLs include bathing, eating, dressing, toileting, transferring (moving into or out of a bed, chair or wheelchair) and continence.
"At what age should I apply for long-term care insurance?" Generally, experts suggest you apply between ages 50 and 55. The younger you are when you apply, the better the chance you will be healthy enough to qualify. It's also during these years prior to retirement that your income is normally at its highest and you're better able to pay the insurance premiums.
Long-term care insurance policies vary widely. A professional specializing in long-term care insurance can be a great resource to consumers in considering the many options available today.
Brent Dees, president of Brent Dees Financial, is a small business coach and financial planner w
The Awful Truth about Annuity and Insurance Leads
You see the websites, you see the ads: exclusive, never before sold, prospects eager to buy, insurance and annuity Leads. Some leads cost a few dollars - others are over one-hundred a pop.
I was curious, just how good are these insurance and annuity leads? I decided to find out.
I'm not going to name specific insurance and annuity lead websites, but I will give you a summary of how it all shook out.
insurance and Annuity Lead website A:
Cost: Cheap
Results: Terrible. 10% of the leads my staff called got number no longer in service recordings. The rest: the people had no idea what we were talking about. They were not interested in annuities, insurance or investments, nor did they remember filling out a request for information form on the internet.
sales: 0
insurance and Annuity Lead website B:
Cost: Average
Results: Terrible. Prospects didn't recall filling out request for information on anything related to annuities, insurance or financial planning. Most just hung-up.
sales: 0
insurance and Annuity Leads website C:
Cost: Expensive
Results: About twenty percent remembered filling out a request for info. However, they had been called numerous times by different agents. Most were getting sick and tired of the calls. A few had begun working with other agents. Most hung-up angrily.
sales: 0
I spent two-thousand dollars on this experiment. I did not find one-receptive buyer. I had thrown away my money, not to mention time spent by my phoning staff to contact these "hot prospects".
What the heck was going on? How could these websites sell such garbage?
I poked around, wrote a few e-mails to 'industry experts', not surprisingly, nobody got back to me. Luckily, I did end up making contact with a marketing person who had previously worked for a big lead selling outfit. She gave me the juicy details of how the majority of these lead companies operate, whether it is insurance leads, long-term care leads, annuity leads, or MLM/Work-from-Home leads. They all employ the same methods.
Method #1: You send cute E-card to your mother wishing her a happy birthday. You fill out name, e-mail and click send. Your name and e-mail are captured. If the site is a lead harvester masquerading as an e-card site, you will now be e-mailed by people looking to sell you annuities, Business opportunity offers, etc.
Method #2: Leads site buys huge database, often just regional phone book listings. They sell these 'leads', which are nothing more than names and numbers picked from the phonebook. Some of these people may even be on the Do Not Call list, which could land you in hot water.
I was curious, just how good are these insurance and annuity leads? I decided to find out.
I'm not going to name specific insurance and annuity lead websites, but I will give you a summary of how it all shook out.
insurance and Annuity Lead website A:
Cost: Cheap
Results: Terrible. 10% of the leads my staff called got number no longer in service recordings. The rest: the people had no idea what we were talking about. They were not interested in annuities, insurance or investments, nor did they remember filling out a request for information form on the internet.
sales: 0
insurance and Annuity Lead website B:
Cost: Average
Results: Terrible. Prospects didn't recall filling out request for information on anything related to annuities, insurance or financial planning. Most just hung-up.
sales: 0
insurance and Annuity Leads website C:
Cost: Expensive
Results: About twenty percent remembered filling out a request for info. However, they had been called numerous times by different agents. Most were getting sick and tired of the calls. A few had begun working with other agents. Most hung-up angrily.
sales: 0
I spent two-thousand dollars on this experiment. I did not find one-receptive buyer. I had thrown away my money, not to mention time spent by my phoning staff to contact these "hot prospects".
What the heck was going on? How could these websites sell such garbage?
I poked around, wrote a few e-mails to 'industry experts', not surprisingly, nobody got back to me. Luckily, I did end up making contact with a marketing person who had previously worked for a big lead selling outfit. She gave me the juicy details of how the majority of these lead companies operate, whether it is insurance leads, long-term care leads, annuity leads, or MLM/Work-from-Home leads. They all employ the same methods.
Method #1: You send cute E-card to your mother wishing her a happy birthday. You fill out name, e-mail and click send. Your name and e-mail are captured. If the site is a lead harvester masquerading as an e-card site, you will now be e-mailed by people looking to sell you annuities, Business opportunity offers, etc.
Method #2: Leads site buys huge database, often just regional phone book listings. They sell these 'leads', which are nothing more than names and numbers picked from the phonebook. Some of these people may even be on the Do Not Call list, which could land you in hot water.
Health Savings Accounts
Most people with health insurance, especially employer paid health insurance, really don't know what their health care costs are. Furthermore, in many cases, they are limited in which health providers (doctors, hospitals, pharmacies etc) they can use.
Most people are locked into a network of doctors. They know what the co-pay is, but have no idea what the doctor actually charges.
When insured consumers are hospitalized, they rarely see the bill. They don't know if the insurance company was overcharged or not. There are firms that audit hospital bills for insurers and self insured companies. They get paid a percentage of what they save on the bill payer by finding overcharges, duplicate charges and the like. The last I heard these firms were still making lots of money.
Overcharging, whether deliberate or not, by doctors and hospitals drive up health care costs for all. (So do malpractice suits, but that's another story.)
In order to give consumers more direct control not only over their health costs, but in the choice of which doctor they can see or which hospital they can enter, Congress enacted the health Savings Account Availability Act. As of the beginning of 2004, individuals who are not otherwise insured can have health Savings Accounts (HSA) , which carry with them some very attractive tax benefits.
An individual can set up an HSA for himself or his family. An employer can add an HSA option to the so-called cafeteria benefit plan it may already offer.
The money put into the plan is before taxes, including Social Security, if part of an employer plan. Otherwise it is a above-the-line deduction, meaning you don't have to itemize your deductions to get the tax break and that the deduction is not subject to the phase-out rules that make many itemized deductions unavailable to high wage earners.
The plan is set up like an IRA. A trustee approved by the IRS must be used. Money put in the plan grows tax free and funds withdrawn for qualified medical expenses are also tax free. Unlike the older Flexible Savings Accounts offered in employer cafeteria plans, you don't have to spend the money put into the account by year end or otherwise lose whatever's left. Money can be rolled over from year to year. This can allow for a nice chunk of money to accumulate that can be withdraw tax free at age 65.
In order to qualify, the individual or family must purchase a high deducible health insurance policy. These are special policies that have a minimum deductible of $1000 to a maximum of $5000 for an individual and $2000 to $10,000 for a family. The higher the deductible, the lower the premium.
Individuals can deduct the lesser of $2250 or the deductible on the policy: for married couples or families it is double that. If over 55, the deduction is $600 higher for individual and $1200 higher for couples and will continue to rise at $100 a year until 2009, where it will be capped at $1000 for individuals and $2000 for families.
The money in the HSA cannot be used to pay the premiums for this policy except in certain circumstances (basically when you're unemployed). It is meant to meet the deductible, co-pays, drug costs, eyeglasses or any other medical expense that could be itemized on an individual tax return as a medical expense.
Money withdrawn in excess of qualified medical expenses is taxed as income and subject to a 10% penalty, unless the owner is disabled or over 65. Any money in the account at death is added to the taxable estate.
There are no income limits on this plan. If started early, when you are still young and healthy a substantial amount of money could accumulate to either meet higher medical costs as you get older or to use to supplement your income.
Most people are locked into a network of doctors. They know what the co-pay is, but have no idea what the doctor actually charges.
When insured consumers are hospitalized, they rarely see the bill. They don't know if the insurance company was overcharged or not. There are firms that audit hospital bills for insurers and self insured companies. They get paid a percentage of what they save on the bill payer by finding overcharges, duplicate charges and the like. The last I heard these firms were still making lots of money.
Overcharging, whether deliberate or not, by doctors and hospitals drive up health care costs for all. (So do malpractice suits, but that's another story.)
In order to give consumers more direct control not only over their health costs, but in the choice of which doctor they can see or which hospital they can enter, Congress enacted the health Savings Account Availability Act. As of the beginning of 2004, individuals who are not otherwise insured can have health Savings Accounts (HSA) , which carry with them some very attractive tax benefits.
An individual can set up an HSA for himself or his family. An employer can add an HSA option to the so-called cafeteria benefit plan it may already offer.
The money put into the plan is before taxes, including Social Security, if part of an employer plan. Otherwise it is a above-the-line deduction, meaning you don't have to itemize your deductions to get the tax break and that the deduction is not subject to the phase-out rules that make many itemized deductions unavailable to high wage earners.
The plan is set up like an IRA. A trustee approved by the IRS must be used. Money put in the plan grows tax free and funds withdrawn for qualified medical expenses are also tax free. Unlike the older Flexible Savings Accounts offered in employer cafeteria plans, you don't have to spend the money put into the account by year end or otherwise lose whatever's left. Money can be rolled over from year to year. This can allow for a nice chunk of money to accumulate that can be withdraw tax free at age 65.
In order to qualify, the individual or family must purchase a high deducible health insurance policy. These are special policies that have a minimum deductible of $1000 to a maximum of $5000 for an individual and $2000 to $10,000 for a family. The higher the deductible, the lower the premium.
Individuals can deduct the lesser of $2250 or the deductible on the policy: for married couples or families it is double that. If over 55, the deduction is $600 higher for individual and $1200 higher for couples and will continue to rise at $100 a year until 2009, where it will be capped at $1000 for individuals and $2000 for families.
The money in the HSA cannot be used to pay the premiums for this policy except in certain circumstances (basically when you're unemployed). It is meant to meet the deductible, co-pays, drug costs, eyeglasses or any other medical expense that could be itemized on an individual tax return as a medical expense.
Money withdrawn in excess of qualified medical expenses is taxed as income and subject to a 10% penalty, unless the owner is disabled or over 65. Any money in the account at death is added to the taxable estate.
There are no income limits on this plan. If started early, when you are still young and healthy a substantial amount of money could accumulate to either meet higher medical costs as you get older or to use to supplement your income.
How Does Credit History Affect Car Insurance Rates?
Many personal car insurance companies consider your credit information when determining how much premium to charge for your insurance. So if you are calling around for new car insurance, keep in mind that many insurers are looking at your credit history to determine your car insurance rates. I hope that we will be able to let you know why and how they do this.
The reason that some insurance companies use credit information is because they feel there is a direct correlation between consumer's credit history behaviors and expected claims that may occur. Therefore, they feel that people with better credit behavior are less likely to severe insurance losses.
Many insurance companies still use your age, driving history, type of vehicle, where you live in determining how much you should pay for your insurance. Therefore, if you have not established a credit history yet, the companies that use credit history may not be best for you. They may not allow you to be eligible for certain discounts, which could result in higher premiums.
The companies that do use credit scoring will still use other factors in determining your premium. They will also use your age, driving history, type of vehicle, where you live in determining how much you should pay for your insurance.
Is it fair for an insurance company even look at my credit information without my permission? The answer is yes. The Federal Fair credit-reporting act says "Reasonable procedures. It is the purpose of this title to require that consumer reporting agencies adopt reasonable procedures for meeting the needs of commerce for consumer credit, personnel, insurance, and other information in a manner which is fair and equitable to the consumer, with regard to the confidentiality, accuracy, relevancy, and proper utilization of such information in accordance with the requirements of this title." This can be found at http://www.ftc.gov/os/statutes/fcra.htm
If you feel that your credit history is better then the insurer can find, make sure the insurer has your correct name, address, social security number, and date of birth.
Some insurance companies will look directly at your actual credit reports when determining your rate, however most will use what is called an "insurance credit score." An insurance credit score is developed by using statistical techniques and methods to predict the likelihood a consumer will have a higher than anticipated losses. These are similar to what lenders use to predict the reliability of an applicant repaying a loan. Credit History Factors and Car insurance Rates
insurance companies use many factors in determining your credit score. Here are some examples of those factors:
. Public records: bankruptcy, collections, foreclosures, liens, charge-offs, etc.
. Past payment history: the number and frequency of late payments and the days between the due date and late payment date.
. Length of credit history: the amount of time you have been in the credit system.
. Inquiries for credit: the number of times you have recently applied for new credit, including mortgage loans, utility accounts, and credit card accounts.
. Number of open lines of credit: the number of credit cards, whether you use them or not.
. Type of credit in use: major credit cards, store credit cards, finance company loans, etc.
. Unused credit: how much you owe compared to how much credit is available to you.
Your insurance credit score may differ from company to company, as they will use different factors in determining your premium. Notice that we call it an insurance credit score. This means that it encompasses many factors including credit.
Since each insurance company uses different techniques to determine your credit score it is hard to tell you what a good credit score is. Usually a good credit score will result in lower premiums.
Your agent or company is not obligated to tell you your credit score. In fact, they might not even know what it is. All they usually know is that your credit score qualifies you for a specific rate or policy. Some companies also offer better rates under each qualifying tier.
If you feel that there is incorrect information on your credit report, you should tell the credit bureau. If you report and error, the credit bureau must investigate the error and get back to you within 30 days. You can ask the credit bureau to send a notice of the correction to any creditor or insurer that has checked your file in the past six months. Once the errors are corrected, it is a good idea to get a new copy of your credit report several months later to make sure the wrong information has not been reported again.
The three national credit bureaus are:
. Trans Union (www.transunion.com or 800-888-4213)
. Equifax (www.credit.equifax.com or 800-685-1111)
. Experian (www.experian.com or 888-397-3742)
Tell your insurance company. Do not wait until the credit bureau investigates the errors to contact your insurer. Tell your insurance company right away and ask if the errors will make a difference in your insurance. If the errors are big, tell your insurer that you are disputing the information and ask if they will wait to use your credit information until the errors are corrected. Small errors may not have much affect on your insurance credit score. If the errors are big, it can make a significant difference in your premium. Some companies are unable to adjust the premiums until the score is corrected, but it does not hurt to ask.
If you have taken the steps to improve your credit, score you should ask your insurance company to re-evaluate your credit score at renewal.
Matt McWilliams is the Vice-President of Customer Relations for http://HometownQuotes.Com, the industry leader in providing insurance quotes for customers across the country. HometownQuotes.Com was founded in 2003 by insurance agents and has grown into one of the best-known ways for shoppers to find affordable insurance online.
Matt is originally from North Carolina where he spent way too much time playing golf.
The reason that some insurance companies use credit information is because they feel there is a direct correlation between consumer's credit history behaviors and expected claims that may occur. Therefore, they feel that people with better credit behavior are less likely to severe insurance losses.
Many insurance companies still use your age, driving history, type of vehicle, where you live in determining how much you should pay for your insurance. Therefore, if you have not established a credit history yet, the companies that use credit history may not be best for you. They may not allow you to be eligible for certain discounts, which could result in higher premiums.
The companies that do use credit scoring will still use other factors in determining your premium. They will also use your age, driving history, type of vehicle, where you live in determining how much you should pay for your insurance.
Is it fair for an insurance company even look at my credit information without my permission? The answer is yes. The Federal Fair credit-reporting act says "Reasonable procedures. It is the purpose of this title to require that consumer reporting agencies adopt reasonable procedures for meeting the needs of commerce for consumer credit, personnel, insurance, and other information in a manner which is fair and equitable to the consumer, with regard to the confidentiality, accuracy, relevancy, and proper utilization of such information in accordance with the requirements of this title." This can be found at http://www.ftc.gov/os/statutes/fcra.htm
If you feel that your credit history is better then the insurer can find, make sure the insurer has your correct name, address, social security number, and date of birth.
Some insurance companies will look directly at your actual credit reports when determining your rate, however most will use what is called an "insurance credit score." An insurance credit score is developed by using statistical techniques and methods to predict the likelihood a consumer will have a higher than anticipated losses. These are similar to what lenders use to predict the reliability of an applicant repaying a loan. Credit History Factors and Car insurance Rates
insurance companies use many factors in determining your credit score. Here are some examples of those factors:
. Public records: bankruptcy, collections, foreclosures, liens, charge-offs, etc.
. Past payment history: the number and frequency of late payments and the days between the due date and late payment date.
. Length of credit history: the amount of time you have been in the credit system.
. Inquiries for credit: the number of times you have recently applied for new credit, including mortgage loans, utility accounts, and credit card accounts.
. Number of open lines of credit: the number of credit cards, whether you use them or not.
. Type of credit in use: major credit cards, store credit cards, finance company loans, etc.
. Unused credit: how much you owe compared to how much credit is available to you.
Your insurance credit score may differ from company to company, as they will use different factors in determining your premium. Notice that we call it an insurance credit score. This means that it encompasses many factors including credit.
Since each insurance company uses different techniques to determine your credit score it is hard to tell you what a good credit score is. Usually a good credit score will result in lower premiums.
Your agent or company is not obligated to tell you your credit score. In fact, they might not even know what it is. All they usually know is that your credit score qualifies you for a specific rate or policy. Some companies also offer better rates under each qualifying tier.
If you feel that there is incorrect information on your credit report, you should tell the credit bureau. If you report and error, the credit bureau must investigate the error and get back to you within 30 days. You can ask the credit bureau to send a notice of the correction to any creditor or insurer that has checked your file in the past six months. Once the errors are corrected, it is a good idea to get a new copy of your credit report several months later to make sure the wrong information has not been reported again.
The three national credit bureaus are:
. Trans Union (www.transunion.com or 800-888-4213)
. Equifax (www.credit.equifax.com or 800-685-1111)
. Experian (www.experian.com or 888-397-3742)
Tell your insurance company. Do not wait until the credit bureau investigates the errors to contact your insurer. Tell your insurance company right away and ask if the errors will make a difference in your insurance. If the errors are big, tell your insurer that you are disputing the information and ask if they will wait to use your credit information until the errors are corrected. Small errors may not have much affect on your insurance credit score. If the errors are big, it can make a significant difference in your premium. Some companies are unable to adjust the premiums until the score is corrected, but it does not hurt to ask.
If you have taken the steps to improve your credit, score you should ask your insurance company to re-evaluate your credit score at renewal.
Matt McWilliams is the Vice-President of Customer Relations for http://HometownQuotes.Com, the industry leader in providing insurance quotes for customers across the country. HometownQuotes.Com was founded in 2003 by insurance agents and has grown into one of the best-known ways for shoppers to find affordable insurance online.
Matt is originally from North Carolina where he spent way too much time playing golf.
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