Volume 10, Issue 4 April 2019


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Our monthly newsletter addresses consumer insurance topics as well as timely information on issues affecting senior citizens in Louisiana.

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To find out if Consumer Advocacy will be in your area or to request a speaker for your organization or group, call (225) 219-0619 or send an email to: consumeradvocacy@ldi.la.gov

Upcoming Events 

SHIIP and COAST 2019 Medicare Counseling

Date: April 17, 2019
Time: 9:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.
Location: Covington Senior Center
19404 N. 10th Street, Covington, LA

SHIIP and COAST 2019 Medicare Counseling

Date: May 15, 2019
Time: 9:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.
Location: Slidell Senior Center
610 Cousin Street, Slidell, LA

View Louisiana's Open Meetings Law on the legislative website by clicking here.

Distracted Driving Leads to a Dead End

Distracted driving is a dangerous practice that takes a driver’s focus away from the roadway. It’s not only texting or talking on the phone but also internet surfing or taking a selfie. Researchers and state insurance regulators all point to distracted driving as the cause of more frequent, more costly accidents resulting in higher insurance premiums. Here are a few tips to help you make it to your destination safely.

  • Put your phone away, food, other devices, or anything that may tempt you to take your hands off the wheel.
  • Plan your route and set your map or navigation technology before you depart.
  • Buckle up and obey the speed limit.

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Try to model good driving behavior that keeps Louisiana roadways safe.

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Fraud Alert Sign

 

Outsmarting Hackers

Guarding against identity theft helps to protect your credit score. A credit freeze or security alert, restricts access to your credit report, stopping would-be hackers from gaining access to your personal information. Without a credit report, most creditors won’t approve or open a new account. A hacker cannot lift your credit freeze and open a new line of credit.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, a credit freeze locks down your credit. A fraud alert allows creditors to obtain a copy of your report, as long as they take steps to verify your identity. Fraud alerts can stop someone from opening a new account in your name but may not prevent them from misusing existing accounts. 

There are three types of alerts:

Initial Fraud Alert. Protects your identity for 90 days from unverified access. 

Extended Fraud Alert. Protects your credit identity for seven years, if you are a victim of identity theft. 

Active Duty Military Alert. Protects deployed military for one year.

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Retirement Security

 

Retirement Planning Tips

There is no better time to get your finances in order than during National Retirement Planning week April 8-12, 2019. There are steps you can take now to begin saving for your golden years.

  • Track your spending and consider starting a retirement savings account.
  • Do your research and carefully consider purchasing a life insurance policy.
  • Consider the cost of health care and understand what services will be covered and what isn’t.
  • Set financial goals and meet with a certified financial planner to help you invest your money and make sure you’re meeting your goals.

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Office of Consumer Advocacy
(225) 219-0619 or (800) 259-5300

P.O Box 94214
www.ldi.la.gov

Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9214
consumeradvocacy@ldi.la.gov