1) Income Not just straight income, but Modified Adjusted Gross Income.  Here is a good website to help you determine what is considered when figuring this number out for yourself:  http://www.dhcs.ca.gov/individuals/Documents/2013-11%20MAGI%20Summary%20with%20DHCS.pdf Remember, if there is more than one income earner in a household, this number reflects the total of all income earned for the year. 2) Household Size When determining your household size, here is who you should include: Yourself Your spouse Your children who live with you, even if they make enough money to file a tax return themselves Your unmarried partner who needs health coverage Anyone you include … Continue reading

Identity theft is something we often hear about on the news and in the media. Even though this isn’t a new concept, it is constantly evolving. Often, I believe we don’t realize how far reaching and severe the problem of identity theft is. Each year, millions of people lose their identity. In fact, Identity theft is the number one consumer complaint filed with the FDC for fifteen years in a row. You might say that at that rate, it’s not a matter of if – but when. Here are some interesting facts to consider regarding identity theft: ID theft isn’t … Continue reading

The Affordable Care Act has brought many changes to the health insurance industry.  One of these major changes is also connected to your auto insurance and how you and your family are protected if injured in an auto accident.  Let me explain further. In the State of Michigan, your auto insurance policy will pay for medical expenses due to an automobile accident.  In the past, it was common for your auto insurance policy to provide you with an option on whether you wanted this type of ‘full’ medical coverage on your auto insurance policy or if you preferred to coordinate and … Continue reading

It used to be easy when it was just ”you” to think about.  Life was pretty simple, your money was yours, the things you choose to do or not do were impactful only to you.  To a large degree, you were accountable only to yourself. Fast forward a few years and you have a loving family that not only cares about you – but relies on you for things like income, a roof over their head and food on the table.  If you find yourself in this position then it may also be time for family life insurance planning.  Knowing your … Continue reading

Today, there are very few restrictions on what you can and cannot insure.  From your homeand auto, to disability or life insurance, to yachts and sports cars – if you want to pay, there is a way to get it done!  Celebs have lead the way in the movement of insuring unique or weird items.  Here are a few exceptional items that have spiced up the insurance industry in the last few years. Hair – whether it’s a unique hairstyle, hair color or even the hair on your chest – it’s likely to be important to someone out there.  Celebs … Continue reading

No matter the time of year or the climate, people in all areas of the country are at risk for having fires in their homes.   In 2013 alone, there were over 369,000 reported structure fires with 2,755 related deaths.  Given those scary statistics, it’s important to think about a fire escape plan for your home.  Whether you are a single person or a family of 5, having a plan that you know, understand, and practice is vitally important.  Here are a few tips from the National Fire Protection Association to help you make your plan a reality. Talk to your … Continue reading

When speaking with my clients, there really isn’t a more emotionally charged topic than kids and life insurance.  There seems to be a great divide on feelings and temperment when I bring this topic up.  Many people are grateful for the opportunity to dicuss this – and some are even more grateful that I’m the one bringing it up so they don’t have to.  Others will move awkwardly in their seats and ask to bypass the topic.  No matter your thoughts, I am fully committed to explaining why you should take the time to consider purchasing life insurance on your … Continue reading

It’s hard to believe, especially in Michigan, that spring is right around the corner.  As of right now, the snow is piled pretty high around my entire house.  Even though green grass and dandelions are a few months away, now is a great time to start making that spring home maintenance checklist.  Planning ahead will allow you to tailor the task to your specific home needs.  Paying attention to some of the items below will prevent the need for filing small homeowners claims. Start by walking around your home. Look at your roof shingles – do you see signs of … Continue reading

It’s that time of year when everyone is leaving behind the doldrums of winter in the North and heading to warmer and sunnier weather in the South.  When planning your annual winter getaway, there are many things to think about.  You have to buy that new bathing suit (or two or three), find someone to watch the pets, find affordable plane tickets and last but not least , make sure your home is still standing when you get back!  To achieve this last item, here are some helpful tips to make life easier. Shut off the water – it’s a … Continue reading

It’s almost time to pick a new health insurance plan for 2015.  There are many variables to consider when understanding the options available to you.  Two of the most important variables are household size and income level.  Below, you will find a chart which gives you the information necessary to figure out where you fall.   *Guideline Only – household situations vary Remember that each state is different in how they handle the Affordable Care Act and access to coverage and benefits.  Additionally, some states offer an expansion of the Medicaid program.  Please consult your state’s guidelines before making a … Continue reading