Insurance | Bernardini & Donovan

September 19, 2014September 8, 2016

Understanding Life Insurance During Life Insurance Awareness Month

Since September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, chances are you have heard a thing or two about the topic recently. Nearly half of Americans do not have life insurance, despite how vital of an insurance policy it really is. Life insurance acts as a financial safeguard for your loved ones after you pass. Your life insurance policy will assist in paying all final expenses, burial costs, education expenses, and any income debt or liabilities.

When it comes to understanding life insurance, you must first understand who needs life insurance. While everyone can benefit from the extra security and the guarantee of their final wishes, those who need life insurance most are those who have someone depending on them financially. As your family begins the grieving process after you pass, the last thing you want is for them to have to deal with financial troubles. If you have any debt, a life insurance policy would provide your loved ones with financial protection. Additionally, your life insurance policy can replace your income for the time being until those who were dependent on you can determine an alternative income solution. This will allow them to continue paying all bills and mortgage payments.

As one of the most important policies an individual can purchase, insurance companies offer different types of life insurance policies to meet the financial limitations of nearly all individuals. Those in the market for a life insurance policy can choose between term life insurance, whole life insurance, and universal life insurance. Your experienced agent will guide you through the process of choosing which type of life insurance policy best meets your needs. Understanding life insurance does not have to be confusing with one of our knowledgeable agents by your side.

We recognize September as Life Insurance Awareness Month! Contact Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services in Redlands for all of your California life insurance needs. Allow us to provide your loved ones with guaranteed security.

August 29, 2014September 8, 2016

5 Reasons The Insurance Agent Is More Important Than Ever

Despite common initial reaction to recent health care reform, health insurance brokers are still important, if not more important when it comes to the health care industry. With the majority of California residents still wondering how the Affordable Care Act will affect their lives, insurance brokers are able to help individuals and small businesses navigate through the various health insurance regulations. Gathered are 5 reasons why your insurance broker will become even more vital of an asset to you:

If you are one of the many individuals who will be purchasing health insurance for the first time, your insurance broker will be able to answer any questions you may have, and guide you through the process of successfully enrolling in health care.
Your insurance agent will be able to tell you whether or not your existing health insurance plan can become a grandfathered plan where you can keep it. You can even ask your insurance agent to help you determine which plan is the most cost effective and which provides the most benefits to you.
As a small business owner, you may be able to purchase SHOP coverage through your insurance broker. Likewise, your insurance agent can help make sure that you are following all new rules and regulations under Obamacare, and help you assess the various health insurance options.
As a small business owner, you can utilize the various benefits of having an employee benefits broker by your side. Your insurance broker will be able to manage your health care costs while ensuring that your organization complies with all rules and regulations.
Most importantly to note, your insurance agent has been in the industry far longer than any health care reform navigator, therefore, they will best be able to assist you.

We understand that the various implications surrounding Covered California may have you confused, and that is why we are available to dispel any myths and reveal only the truth. Contact Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services for all of your California health insurance needs.

August 22, 2014September 8, 2016

How Will Covered California Affect My Health Insurance?

With the introduction of Covered California, better known as Obamacare, many individuals and businesses are left wondering how the implications will affect their lives. Health exchanges have been put in place, providing individuals and businesses with a specific place where they can purchase health insurance through Covered California.

Although these health exchanges have been put in place, many Californians will continue purchasing health insurance from insurance companies, brokers, and private health exchanges. Since the majority of California residents who purchase health insurance will not qualify for government tax subsidies, many individuals would prefer to avoid purchasing health insurance from the state exchange service.

If you choose to purchase health insurance on an off-exchange plan, you will still be receiving top quality care. This is because the off-exchange plans are required to follow the 10 essential health benefits, offering the following 10 necessities:

Services during emergencies
Outpatient care without hospital admittance
Hospitalization
Maternity care and newborn care
Care for those with mental health and substance abuse problems
Prescription medications
Rehab and rehabilitative services
Laboratory facilities
Pediatric care
Preventative care

While there are still options for health insurance, it is now required by law that you obtain health insurance. Under the recent health care reform, all individuals must have health insurance. Likewise, there are a variety of legal requirements businesses must abide by now. If you have more than 50 full-time employees, you are now required by law to offer those employees health insurance. The next open enrollment period is fast approaching, so be sure to get informed so that you can make the appropriate health insurance decision based on your unique needs.

We understand that the various implications surrounding the Affordable Care Act may have you confused, and that is why we are available to dispel any myths and reveal only the truth. Contact Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services for all of your California health insurance needs.

August 4, 2014September 8, 2016

5 Ways to Stay Healthy on Vacation

As you’ve been hitting the gym constantly and watching what you eat before your summer vacation, there is no reason to lose all that progress as you enjoy your trip. While many think it is impossible to maintain a healthy lifestyle while on vacation, there are a variety of ways to stay healthy but still enjoy yourself. Consider incorporating these 5 helpful tips to maintain a healthy lifestyle while on vacation:

In order to save both money and calories, you will want to have at least one meal at your hotel or rental property each day. If you are renting a property, you’ll have more freedom to indulge in a tasty but healthy meal. If you will be staying in a hotel, consider bringing breakfast bars, cereal, or oatmeal.
Remember portion control as you dine out. It is nearly impossible to avoid restaurants altogether while vacationing, therefore, you’ll have to remind yourself that you do not have to finish the entire dish. You will also want to order all sauces and dressings on the side so that you can choose how much you consume.
If you want to consume alcohol while on vacation, remember that you’ll want to drink only water and sparkling water on all other occasions. Avoid fruity drinks that will be loaded with calories and sugars such as Mai Tais and Pina Coladas. Rather, stick to straight shooters or vodka with sparkling water and lime.
Whenever possible, walk to your destination. You may want to make an effort to go on a walk after each meal so that you don’t feel bloated and guilty for enjoying yourself.
Unlike when you’re home exercising, many vacation activities involve exercising in a FUN way. Go zip lining through the forest or indulge on a scenic hike with your spouse.

Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services strives to provide Redlands, California residents with excellent insurance services custom tailored to meet your unique needs. Contact us today and allow us customize a unique health insurance package for your family based on your needs.

July 28, 2014September 8, 2016

Ongoing Changes in ACA Regulations

Since its establishment, the Affordable Care Act has stirred much controversy and confusion. Both individuals and businesses have experienced a wide range of changes due to this new law. As a business owner, it is crucial that you are in compliance and knowledgeable of the following:

A small business with less than 50 employees working full-time is not required to offer healthcare to their employees.
The number of full-time employees is calculated by the previous year’s number of full-time employees.
While the idea of seasonal employees may make identifying the actual number of full-time employees more challenging, typically, if a seasonal worker is employed for less than 120 days each year, they are not considered a full-time employee.
As a business owner with more than one entity, you will be required to combine the total number of full-time employees from each business to determine the actual number of full-time employees. This will determine if a business owner is required to offer their employees’ healthcare benefits.
The healthcare that is offered to employees must be affordable, providing the minimum level of coverage to both the full time employee and their dependents.
Minimum level coverage is determined by the percentage of total allowed cost of benefits, which must be at least 60 percent.
If you are a small business owner or farmer, there are certain options you must consider. You may be eligible to deduct 100 percent of uncovered medical expenses as a business expense.
In order to avoid any penalties, it is strongly encouraged that you seek the advice of one of the many administrative organizations to make sure you have compiled with all new laws and regulations, including the Treatment Alternatives of Safe Communities (TASC).

July 14, 2014September 8, 2016

Covered California: FAQs about Special Enrollment Period

As a complex manner, the rules and regulations of Covered California often confuse people. If you have recently experienced a life changing event and believe you are qualified for the Special Enrollment Period, you may have a few questions about what the next step is. As Certified Covered California Agents, the insurance experts at Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services can guide you through the process and ease your worries.

After your qualifying life event occurs, you have 60 days to enroll in Covered California through the Special Enrollment Period. If you wait until after the 60 day period, you will be required to wait until the next open enrollment period.
Most qualifying life events make you eligible to enroll online. During this process, many recommend that you meet with a Certified Covered California Agent, such as with the Bernardini & Donovan team, so that you can determine if your qualifying life event allows you to enroll online.
Inform yourself of any gaps in coverage. This may occur if you finish your existing health insurance plan before your new health insurance coverage begins.
The date your health insurance coverage will begin depends on the date you enroll. If you enroll during the first fifteen days of any given month, your coverage will begin on the first day of the following month. If you enroll during the second half of any given month, your coverage will begin on the first of the second following month.

The insurance experts at Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services are Certified Covered California Agents who can help you through the process, for FREE. We can answer any and all of your questions about whether you qualify for the Special Enrollment Period. Although we are located in Redlands, we serve all residents within our California family. Contact us today and we can help you determine when the best time to enroll your family in Covered California would be.

July 7, 2014September 8, 2016

Covered California: Special Enrollment Period

Once open enrollment for Covered California comes to an end, the only way you can enroll in a Covered California health insurance plan is if you experience one of the specific life changing events. If you have recently experienced a life changing event and missed the open enrolling period for Covered California, you may want to double check with the list of qualifying events for special enrollment. We have compiled a list of the qualifying events for your convenience. At Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services, we are Certified Covered California Agents, so any of your remaining questions can be promptly answered by our skilled team.

Qualifying Life Events for the Special Enrollment Period:

Getting married or entering a domestic partnership
Adopt a child, receive a child into foster care, or put a child in adoption or in foster care
Change of permanent residence
If you are released from jail or prison
If you lose your current health insurance. This includes if you lose health insurance through your job or are no longer eligible to receive Medi-Cal
Fluctuating income that results in sporadic eligibilities and ineligibilities.
If you become a citizen, natural, or lawfully present individual. This only applies to those who were previously not considered citizens, nationals, or lawfully present.
Wrongful enrollment due to misconduct or misrepresentation of your health insurance provider.
If you applied before March 31^st, and received a denial notice from Medi-Cal after March 31^st.
Incorrect denial for Covered California or Medi-Cal coverage
A member of a federally recognized American Indian or Alaska Native tribe – Eligible for one-a-month enrollment
Case-by-case basis to determine eligibility

June 30, 2014September 8, 2016

Covered California: Annual Enrollment Dates

As you may already know, the initial open enrollment period ended for Covered California on March 15, 2014. However, if you missed those dates you will have another opportunity to enroll. Each year, Covered California’s annual open enrollment period will begin on October 15^th until December 7^th. Those who enroll during that period will receive health insurance coverage beginning on the first of the new year.

As previously mentioned, when enrollment selection is received in between October 15^th and December 7^th, your health care coverage will begin on January 1^st of the upcoming year. When you enroll during the first half of any month, the 1^st until the 15^th, your health insurance coverage will begin on the first day of the following month. If you enroll during the second half of any given month, 16^th through the 31^st, your health insurance coverage will begin on the first day of the second following month.

There is a Special Enrollment Period for those who undergo a qualifying life event such as beginning an marriage or a domestic partnership, adopting a child, receive a child into foster care or placing a child in adoption or in a foster home, change in permanent residence, loss of health coverage, if you are a member of an American Indian or Alaska Native tribe recognized by the federal government, if you become a citizen, if your income changes, along a few other life changing events.

June 23, 2014September 8, 2016

COBRA Participants Special-Enrollment Period

Recent health care reform has experienced a few bumps in the road during its establishment but Covered California is finally in full swing. Until July 15^th, Covered California will be offering a limited-time, special-enrollment period for those currently enrolled with COBRA medical insurance.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) created Covered California, which is designed to guide California individuals and families towards the path of affordable health insurance coverage. After the establishment of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, over 1.4 million California residents have begun receiving health coverage through Covered California.

There are a variety of insurance coverage options under Covered California that you must choose from. If you are trying to decide whether or not to continue with your COBRA or obtain a Covered California plan, it is best to consider your options. As a qualified individual for premium tax credits, the Covered California route could potentially cost you less each month than your existing COBRA plan.

Before adopting a Covered California plan, you may also want to check with the available doctor and hospital networks you will have access to. Most importantly, do the sufficient research. You will want to compare and contrast the deductibles and co-pays of both your existing COBRA plan and the plans offered by Covered California. If you choose to drop your current plan at COBRA, you must do so before July 15^th. It is important to note that if you are unhappy with your Covered California plan after dropping your COBRA plan, you cannot return to your previous plan.

The insurance experts at Bernardini & Donovan Insurance Services are Certified Covered California Agents who can help you through the process, for FREE. Although we are located in Redlands, we serve all residents within our California family. Contact us today and we can help you determine whether or not to stay with your existing COBRA plan or adopt a Covered California plan.

June 10, 2014September 8, 2016

Disability Insurance: Own Occupation vs Any Occupation

Disability income contracts are intended to protect you from income loss when you are sick or injured. The most important factor of the contract is how disability is defined. Long-term disability is intended to protect those who are totally disabled from performing their duties. Many contracts not only provide benefits while the claimant is disabled from working, but also require an earnings loss from the disability. Many assume that long-term disability is too expensive, however, employer sponsored long-term disability is generally very inexpensive compared to a personal long-term disability contract.

Own Occupation

This term refers to when a claimant, whether they are in a group or individual disability contract, is disabled because they are unable to perform the material and substantial duties of their occupation. This definition is still met when the claimant is totally disabled and not working at all. Typically, group policies have a limited term policy, a two-year Own Occupation period for selected employees. After that two-year period is up, the contract continues to pay but the definition changes to Any Occupation. Some limited term policies provide claimants with a 5-year benefit. However, some contracts will continue to use the definition, Own Occupation, until the claimant turns 65 years old or to their Social Security Normal Retirement Age. It is unusual to see an individual disability policy with anything less than Own Occupation coverage.

Any Occupation

Any Occupation, also known as Any Gainful Occupation, refers to when a claimant is unable to perform the material and substantial duties of any gainful occupation. Any Gainful Occupation refers to an occupation where a person’s performance is based on education, training, and experience. The Gainful Occupation may be required to provide the claimant with a defined income level in order to no longer be classified as disabled.

For more information about long term disability insurance in California please contact Bernardini & Donovan Insurance, located in Redlands.

Category: Insurance