Beware of Medicare and Health Insurance Scams: How to Protect Yourself

duda • December 4, 2023

The world of health insurance can be complex and, unfortunately, it's a realm where scams are all too common. With scammers becoming increasingly creative, it's vital to stay informed about the tactics they use to steal your money and personal information. Here, we outline three major red flags that can help you identify and avoid health insurance scams.


1. Suspicious Government Calls Requesting Personal Information

If you receive an unsolicited call from someone claiming to be from a government agency and asking for personal details like your social security number, bank account, or credit card information, be wary. Remember, government agencies do not make such calls out of the blue. Sharing this sensitive information over the phone could put you at risk of being scammed.


2. Trading Personal Information for a Price Quote

Be cautious if someone offers to check your eligibility for health insurance in exchange for personal details. Legitimate sources like HealthCare.gov only require your monthly income and age to provide a quote. Requests for additional information such as your social security number could be a setup for identity theft.


3. Paying for Quotes or Application Assistance

It's important to know that assistance with applying for coverage through the Marketplace, Medicaid, or CHIP should always be free. The Marketplace has trained assisters in every state at no cost to you. If someone is asking for payment for these services, it’s a clear sign of a scam.


Trust Your Instincts

The bottom line is trust your gut. If a call feels “off,” or if there's undue pressure to provide personal or financial information, it's likely a scam. In such cases, hang up immediately and block the number. You can also report suspicious calls to the Federal Trade Commission.



Need More Information?

Scams can be sophisticated, but being informed is your best defense. If you have any questions or concerns about a call or an offer you've received, don’t hesitate to reach out. Remember, it's better to be safe and verify than to risk falling victim to a scam.

Stay vigilant and protect your personal information.


A house is sitting on top of a lush green hillside surrounded by trees.

Understanding Annuities: How Interest Rates and Inflation Impact Different Types

By duda • January 29, 2024
In the world of financial planning, annuities are a popular topic, especially when it comes to retirement planning. Annuities can be complex, with their returns largely influenced by two key factors: interest rates and life expectancy. With the current climb in interest rates, it's crucial to understand how this impacts different types of annuities. Let’s delve into four common types of annuities and examine how inflation affects each. 1. Single Premium Immediate Annuity (SPIA) A Single Premium Immediate Annuity, or SPIA, is a fixed annuity where you pay a lump-sum premium in exchange for a guaranteed stream of payments, usually for life. Interest Rate Impact: Higher interest rates at the time of purchase generally translate to a higher rate of return for SPIAs. This means that purchasing an SPIA during a period of rising interest rates could be beneficial in terms of payout. 2. Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity (MYGA) An MYGA offers a fixed interest rate for a specified term, generally between three to ten years, and the interest earned is tax-deferred until withdrawn. Interest Rate Impact: The fixed interest rate of a MYGA is directly influenced by prevailing market rates. Therefore, higher interest rates can lead to more attractive MYGA rates, locking in a higher return for the term of the annuity. 3. Fixed Index Annuity This type of annuity offers potential growth tied to a benchmark index. The growth depends on the performance of this index. Interest Rate Impact: For growth-oriented fixed index annuities, rising interest rates can significantly influence returns. However, if the annuity includes an income rider, the impact of interest rates might be less pronounced. 4. Variable Annuity Combining elements of insurance and securities, a variable annuity lets you invest in accounts resembling mutual funds, exposing your assets to market risks and opportunities. Interest Rate Impact: While variable annuities are directly invested in the market, interest rates can still indirectly affect them. Market conditions influenced by interest rates can impact the performance of the funds within a variable annuity. Navigating the Annuity Landscape Understanding how interest rates and inflation affect different annuities is vital for making informed decisions. Whether you're considering an SPIA for immediate income, an MYGA for fixed growth, a fixed index annuity for potential market-linked growth, or a variable annuity for direct market exposure, interest rates play a crucial role in determining the potential returns and risks.  If you’re considering an annuity as part of your financial strategy, it's important to consult with a financial advisor to understand how current market conditions might impact your investment. In conclusion, annuities can be a valuable component of a diversified retirement plan, but it's essential to comprehend their relationship with interest rates and how this impacts your retirement income.
A close up of a woman 's face with no makeup on.

FDA Issues Warning on Eye Drops: What You Need to Know

By duda • January 29, 2024
In a significant health advisory this November, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning to Americans about the potential risks of using certain eye drops. This announcement marks the third eye drop-related warning in 2023, highlighting an increasing concern for eye health safety. Understanding the FDA's Warning The FDA's recent warning comes as a precautionary measure following reports that certain eye drops may pose a risk to users. The FDA is actively updating a list of specific retailers and products implicated in this concern. This alert is part of the FDA's ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and efficacy of health products available to consumers. Retailers and Products of Concern The FDA has identified several major retailers whose eye drop products may be affected. These include well-known brands and store labels such as: CVS Health Leader (by Cardinal Health) Rugby (also by Cardinal Health) Rite Aid Target's Up & Up brand Velocity Pharma Consumers who have purchased eye drops from these retailers are urged to be vigilant and check the specific product details. Consumer Safety Measures While the warning may cause alarm, experts clarify that most eye drops currently available in stores are safe. However, they recommend that consumers crosscheck any eye drops they have at home with the FDA's updated list. This step is crucial in ensuring that the eye drops you or your family use are not among those flagged for potential risks. Expert Recommendations on Eye Drop Selection In light of the recent recalls, healthcare experts are advising consumers to consider opting for brand-name eye drops over generic or store-brand varieties. Given the sensitivity of our eyes and the delicate balance required for eye health, brand-name products often undergo more rigorous testing and quality control, potentially making them a safer choice. The FDA's warning is a timely reminder of the importance of being cautious and informed about the health products we use. It's always advisable to stay updated with FDA announcements and consult with healthcare professionals for personal medical advice, especially when it concerns something as sensitive as eye health. For the latest information and the detailed list of affected products, you can visit the FDA's website . Stay safe and informed!