Volume 12, Issue 1
January 2021


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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     

How to Become a Licensed Claims Adjuster Virtual Workshop

Date: February 18, 2021
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Virtual Webinar via Zoom 

 

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

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment

Medicare beneficiaries are reminded the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment period runs January 1 - March 31. During this time, you can change to a different Medicare Advantage Plan or revert to Original Medicare. 

Medicare Advantage is an insurance product that provides additional benefits not covered under Original Medicare, such as vision, dental and hearing. Also, all types of Medicare Advantage Plans cover emergency and urgent care. Most cover prescription drugs and wellness programs. If you have questions about the open enrollment period, our senior health staff can help. Call us at 1-800-259-5300.


 

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Renters Insurance Basics 

I am considering renters insurance. Where should I begin?

Shop around for a policy to meet your needs. If you have car insurance, that company may be a good place to start because most companies give discounts for multiple policies. 

Do I really need renters insurance?

If you rent a house or apartment that is damaged by fire and smoke, vandalism, wind and hail or water damage from plumbing problems, your landlord’s insurance would only protect the building and the landlord’s property. Your landlord’s policy would not protect any of your personal property from damage or theft.

If I decide to purchase a renters insurance policy, what will it cover?

There are two standard renters insurance policies, the Broad Form and the Comprehensive Form.  The Broad Form is the most commonly purchased type of renters policy. It covers personal belongings against specific events, such as fire or theft. Typical coverage under this form includes damage from fire, lightning, explosion, smoke, vandalism, theft and water-related damage from property utilities. The Comprehensive Form provides coverage for a range of events, unless specifically excluded by the policy. Considering the potential amount of coverage, the premiums for this policy may be higher.

How do I file a claim on my renters insurance?

When you call your insurance company or agent about your claim, keep a record of the conversation, including the person’s name and the date and time of the call. The company will then submit a loss form and an adjuster will be assigned to your claim. A renters insurance policy may cover displaced living expenses following a disaster. Speak with your agent or insurance company about what a policy covers prior to purchasing.

 


 

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Understanding Dental Insurance

The start of a new year is a reminder to review your insurance policies. It’s the perfect time to brush up on what your dental insurance covers. An individual policy will usually cover the following:

• Preventative care
• Restorative care
• Endodontics
• Oral surgery

Preventative care generally includes oral evaluations, X-rays and sealants. Restorative care includes office visits and procedures such as extractions, fillings, root canals and periodontal gum disease treatment. Coverage can vary by policy. Check with your insurer to find out about deductibles, policy limits and coverage for things like oral surgery and implants. Orthodontics (braces and retainers) are generally covered via a rider for both individual and group policies.


 

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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