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What is the Health Insurance Marketplace

October 25, 2013 By Leave a Comment

obamacare-health-insurance-marketplace

The Marketplace is a new way to find quality health coverage.It can help if you don’t have coverage now or if you have it but want to look at other options. With one Marketplace application, you can learn if you can get lower costs based on your income, compare your coverage options side-by-side, and enroll.

When you Apply

When you use the Health Insurance Marketplace, you’ll fill out an application and see all the health plans available in your area. You’ll provide some information about your household size and income to find out if you can get lower costs on your monthly premiums for private insurance plans. You’ll learn if you qualify for lower out-of-pocket costs.  The Marketplace will also tell you if you qualify for free or low-cost coverage available through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Most Americans will be eligible to use the Marketplace. Learn more about Marketplace eligibility. The Health Insurance Marketplace is sometimes known as the health insurance “exchange.”

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How to Apply

You can apply for Marketplace coverage 4 ways: with a paper application, online, by phone, or in person with the help of a Navigator or other qualified helper. Telephone help and online chat are available 24/7 to help you complete your application. You can a copy of the application. Get details about all 4 ways to apply for Marketplace coverage. Plans and prices are now available. Coverage starts as soon as January 1, 2014. Open enrollment ends March 31, 2014. Learn about your options if you need coverage that begins before January 1, 2014.

 Find the Marketplace in your state

While all insurance plans are offered by private companies, the Marketplace is run by either your state or the federal government.

How will the Information be presented

The Marketplace simplifies your search for health coverage by gathering the options available in your area in one place. You can compare plans based on price, benefits, and other features important to you before you make a choice. Plans will be presented in five categories – bronze, silver, gold, platinum, and catastrophic – to make comparing them easier. In the Marketplace, information about prices and benefits will be written in simple language. You get a clear picture of what premiums you’d pay and what benefits and protections you’d get before you enroll. Compare plans based on what’s important to you, and choose the combination of price and coverage that fits your needs and budget.

Make sure to preview plans and estimated savings

Before you fill out a Marketplace application, you can do 2 things to learn your options: 

Use a cost and savings calculator to see if you may qualify for lower costs based on your household size and income.

Preview plans and prices available in your area. Note: Prices shown do not account for any savings you may be eligible for based on your household size and income.

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A Visual Guide to Budgeting

June 5, 2013 By Leave a Comment

A Visual Guide to Budgeting

A Visual Guide to Budgeting

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Increasing Access to Affordable Care

April 15, 2013 By Leave a Comment

 

About the Health Insurance Marketplace

 Open Enrollment in the Health Insurance Marketplace Begins - Effective October 1, 2013

When key parts of the health care law take effect in 2014, there’ll be a new way to get health insurance: the Health Insurance Marketplace. The Marketplace is designed to help you find health insurance that fits your budget, with less hassle.

Every health insurance plan in the new Marketplace will offer comprehensive coverage, from doctors to medications to hospital visits. You can compare all your insurance options based on price, benefits, quality, and other features that may be important to you, in plain language that makes sense.

You’ll know you’re getting a quality health plan at a reasonable price, because there’s nothing buried in the fine print.

Learn more about the value of health insurance.

Find out who’s eligible and get information about your state Marketplace.

Insurance plans run by private companies

When you shop at the Marketplace, everything you need is laid out for you. All your costs are stated up front, so you’ll get a clear picture of what you’re paying and what you’re getting before you make a choice.

Under the health care law, there will also be new protections for you and your family. Health insurance companies can’t refuse to cover you or charge you more just because you have a chronic or pre-existing condition, and they can’t charge more for women than for men.

Many people will get a break on costs

Thanks to new rules and expanded programs, even working families will be able to get help through the Health Insurance Marketplace. There will be new, expanded programs available, and more people than ever before will qualify for free or low-cost health insurance programs.

Most people will be able to get a break on costs through the Marketplace, even if you think your income is too high to get help. One application, one time, and you’ll see all the programs you qualify for.

Watch for more information in October 2013

Starting in October, you’ll be able to get information about all the plans available in your area. You’ll be able to enroll yourself, directly through the website, or call a toll-free phone hotline.

If you’re having difficulty finding a plan that meets your needs and budget, there’ll be people available to give you personalized help with your choices. These helpers aren’t associated with any particular plan, and they aren’t on any type of commission, so the help they give you will be completely unbiased.

Coverage from the Marketplace starts in January 2014.

HHS Logo

A federal government website managed by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
200 Independence Avenue, S.W. – Washington, D.C. 20201
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Educate your kids financially

April 1, 2013 By Leave a Comment

 

You can never teach your children about money too soon!

You may have noticed, children may act as money grows on trees! Kids may be aware that you go to the bank to get money, but rarely they know how the money gets there. This is the perfect opportunity to teach your kids that you have to work hard to earn the money that you spend. Once they understand this concept they may become aware of the hard work you put in to earn a living.

Once they learn, they will apply

After your kids learn about money, how its earned, and the things it can buy; you might notice they will save every penny they can get their hands on.  As a parent it is your responsibility to channel the attitude to teach them to save and learn delayed gratification.

-Planting the seeds early will help bear fruit later

Educate your children from a young age on how money is earned and how it works. By doing this you can avoid trying to teach them as teenagers, when they are less likely to heed any kind of advice you give.

Allowance can be an effective teaching tool

Giving your kids a small amount of money at a young age will prep them for the larger future numbers to come.


The teaching game changes with Teenagers and College-age kids

By the time the kids reach this age group they will most likely have bigger responsibilities such as: Checking accounts, Credit Cards, and other debt. Teaching the kids about banking and credit while in high school will set them on the path of success when they venture out on there own. High School, a lot of times, will off classes covering banking, financing, and the market. Teach your children to take advantage of these resources.

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Creative Ways to Pay for College

March 30, 2013 By Leave a Comment

ID-10091879High school students, by now you are probably thinking about college and how you are going to pay for your education. College costs are skyrocketing, but this shouldn’t stop you from realizing your American dream. In order to pay for college and make sure that you’ll have the best college experience; keep these creative tips in mind:

  • Apply for Financial Aid. Most students, regardless of financial status qualify for a type of financial aid, so there’s no good excuse not to fill out Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Look for free money first such as scholarship and grants, and then seek other types of financial aid packages to cover other educational expenses.
  • Stick to a budget. Determine how much money you have and examine your expenses. Create a budget by making your own spreadsheet or by downloading a template online. After you have finished creating a budget, do your best to stick to it. Bear in mind that it is not about how much money you have, but about how you stick to your budget.
  • Apply to more than a couple of colleges. Applying to multiple schools will give you more options and will enable you to compare college costs and financial aid packages.
  • Save money on textbooks. Purchase books early and opt for used books, which can be a lot cheaper than new ones. You can also look for cheap books- new or used – online.
  • Make extra money. Look for part-time jobs to keep income flowing. You may also want to sell your old, used textbooks to other students. Remember to put your earnings in a savings account.
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5 Tips to Stay Within Your Wedding Budget

February 12, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Planning a winter wedding? The planning process can be a bit challenging but done right, couples can have a happy and meaningful wedding- even on a budget. Here are 5 useful tips from Stylish Weddings and Things on how to stay within your budget when planning a wedding.

1. Open a wedding savings or checking account. With a wedding savings fund, money can be withdrawn at any time to help with your financial needs. This will keep you from spending wedding money for other purposes.

2. Set your priorities and stick with them.

3. Create a budget using real wedding costs, not what you want to pay. Setting a realistic wedding budget can keep you from drowning in debt.

4. Keep your budget with you at ALL times.

5. Plan your shopping days.

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Inexpensive and Exciting Valentine’s Day Crafts

February 8, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Valentine’s Day will soon be upon us and if you still haven’t thought of A romantic (but cheap) Valentine’s Day gift for your special someone, you don’t have to worry because we’ve got you covered. Here are some easy and inexpensive Valentine’s Day crafts you can create at home: Click image for instructions

Happy Heart Day Candy Bottles

(Idea from Tami Wilson)

DIY: You Rule Valentine

(Idea from Re: Located Living)

DIY Sweetheart Brownie Valentine

(Idea from Twig and Thistle)

Hershey Kiss Bouquet.

(Idea from Tiny Prints)

 

Happy Valentine’s Day from Nationwide Biweekly Administration! ♥

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Celebrate Valentine’s Day without Breaking the Bank

February 1, 2013 By Leave a Comment

What’s so good about Valentine’s Day? For one, it is a special day when we stop whatever it is that’s keeping us busy and do simple things to show our loved ones how important they are to us. Another good thing about V-day is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money just to show someone you love them. In fact, most of the times, cheap (or free) gifts are better than expensive ones. They convey the sweetest message and create lasting memories.

Here are creative, romantic and CHEAP ways to say “I love you” on Valentine’s Day

♥    Watch romantic movies together

♥    Prepare a meal or cook a special meal together

♥    Take a moonlit walk in the park.

♥    Sing him/her a love song

♥    Burn a CD with your honey’s favorite love songs or any songs that remind him/her of fond memories you both share

♥    Create a list of things you like best about your partner.

♥    Create a homemade card or write a love letter.

♥   Play some entertaining board or video games with your sweetheart or with the whole family

♥   Create gift coupons. It could be a voucher for a romantic dance, a song number, a massage, anything your partner might need or are sure to enjoy.

♥    Focus on bringing a smile or laughter to your special someone or to every people you love.

♥    Write a love note and tuck it in his/her pocket. Just a simple “I love you” could mean a lot.

♥    Take a bottle of wine and plan a sunset picnic.

♥    Bring out old photo albums and reminisce over your photo memories.

See, creating a romantic and memorable valentine’s day is easy, and it only takes some effort and thought. Any more great ideas that you’ve done or would like to add? Let us know in the comments below!

 

Image credit: emitea

 

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Easy Ways You Can Save Thousands of Dollars in 2013

January 9, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Easy Ways You Can Save Thousands of Dollars in 2013

Easy Ways You Can Save Thousands of Dollars in 2013

If your money situation during the past years was a mess, think of 2013 as a good chance to kick poor financial habits and manage your money wisely. Here’s your guide to a better money situation this year:

  • When buying items online, always check for special offers and discount codes. Check for sales online before doing your shopping. However, you need to be careful not to purchase more than what you need. Some people spend too much instead of saving more by making unnecessary and unplanned purchases. Prioritize based on budget and avoid impulsive shopping.
  • Reduce, reuse and recycle. By doing these three you can make a lot of difference: you save money and you help the environment. Reduce your waste, reuse or repair old items and buy more recycled products.
  • Opt for generic drugs which are cheaper alternative for branded medicines. You don’t have to worry about quality; generic drugs are also regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and they are proven safe and effective.
  • Make your own packed lunch. It would surprise you how a cup of coffee and a sandwich at work can add up to a huge amount of money over time. Instead of buying food or eating on a restaurant every single day, make your own lunch at home and bring to work.
  • Save money on electric bills. Unplug appliances and turn off lights that are not in use. In the winter, wear warm clothing and set your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower during the day.
  • If possible, walk or ride your bike to work. This way, you are able to save money on gas and get some exercise.
  • The easiest way to save money? Avoid extra finance charges by paying  fees on time.  Missing a payment can cost you more money and may have a negative effect on your credit rating.

Looking for a company to handle your biweekly payments? Nationwide Biweekly Administration has the only biweekly program that provides a 100% money back savings guarantee. For more information visit http://www.nbabiweekly.com today!

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Holiday Gift Ideas that will Save you Money | Nationwide Biweekly

December 5, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Cut back on gift-giving expenses with these easy and artistic holiday gift ideas.

Holiday gift ideas

photo credit: Kozzi

Celebrating the holidays doesn’t have to be expensive, nor does giving gifts. This year instead of taking on yet another credit card debt for gift shopping, why not look for other creative and thrifty ways to give gifts? With a little creativity and craftiness, you can turn holiday gift-giving into a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some great holiday gift ideas that will save you money.

1.     Holiday Gift Coupons

Gifts don’t have to be limited to expensive stuff. Sometimes, giving someone your time could be the best gift to show you care. Give gift coupons offering services such as baby or pet sitting, car wash, or handy repairs.

Gift coupons are fun, and they could be great alternative gifts and are sure to work for anyone on your holiday gift list.

2.     Handmade gifts

Bring out your crafty side by making handmade gifts that are unique, memorable and easy on the pocket! Some DIY holiday gifts you can make at home are photo collages, knitted gifts such as scarves, hats, mittens and sweaters, holiday wreath, and candles.

3.     Homemade Food Gifts

So little money, so little time. If that is the story of your life, you should consider buying or making homemade tasty treats for everyone on your gift list this year. Some affordable food gifts you can give this holiday season are: holiday-themed cookies , chocolate fudge, homemade caramel popcorn, fruitcake and Personalized Coffee Blend.

4.     Regifts

Before deciding to spend big on gift shopping, shop your closets, attic, garage or storage area first. You probably have something sitting around the house that you’ve been wanting to get rid of that other people could use. Look for unopened and unused items you received as a gift and repackage with a new wrap

However, you may want to be careful when recycling unwanted gifts. Be sure that they are still in good condition; remove old labels, tags or notes, and take them out of the original wrapping paper and rewrap.

Avoid overspending and don’t go into debt buying gifts this holiday season so you can have a stress-free holiday.

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