Insurance

When we signed up for Medicare we were struck by how complex things seemed. We spent hours figuring out what we needed to do and when, researching options, and choosing plans. Dealing with insurance for an aging loved one only compounds the challenges. Insurance consultants can help. A good place to start is SHIP, a nonprofit network of State-specific insurance assistance programs. Their website provides useful general information as well as links to state agencies providing insurance counseling and assistance with Medicare. Another good resource is the Center for Medicare Advocacy. The Center’s website provides excellent self-help materials as well as legal advocacy and support for appeals of Medicare denials.

Jillian Day of 508 Assist and Karyn Winrich of financial literacy helped compile the following resources to assist with Medicare and other insurance issues. We welcome suggestions of additional resources.

Why You Should Get Health Insurance

https://www.creditkarma.com/tax/i/why-get-health-insurance/

Medicare vs. Medicaid: Key Differences and What Is Covered

https://www.thebalance.com/medicare-vs-medicaid-key-differences-and-coverage-4159598

Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans

https://www.ehealthinsurance.com/medicare/supplement-all/medicare-advantage-vs-medicare-supplement-plans

Buying Private Health Insurance

https://www.investopedia.com/articles/pf/08/private-health-insurance.asp

Will My Insurance Cover a Retirement Home or Assisted Living?

https://modernretirement.org/will-my-insurance-cover-a-retirement-home-or-assisted-living/

Should you Purchase Long-Term Care Insurance?

https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/financial-legal/info-2018/long-term-care-insurance-fd.html

What’s the Difference Between Burial Insurance, Life Insurance, and Funeral Insurance?

https://www.lhlic.com/consumer-resources/burial-insurance-vs-life-insurance/