Category: Frugal Living Tips

How to Find a Top-Rated Family Dentist

May 7, 2020 Health & Fitness

Do you want to connect with a professional who can take care of your family’s dental health?

Untreated dental issues have lifelong consequences and costs. For example, over 30% of today’s young adults have untreated tooth decay. It’s costing them their smiles and their jobs.

If you don’t want your children to experience the same problem, you need a trusted dentist. Better yet, get a family dentist. The range of a family dentist’s specialties addresses oral health at all stages of life.

Below, we have a guide on how you find a top-rated dentist to help your family’s dental and oral health problems.

1. Ask People You Trust for Recommendations

One of the best ways to find a trustworthy dentist is to turn people you trust. That can be a friend, another family member, or others. These people are likely to give recommendations of dentists they trust.

As a tip, approach someone who’s had more than standard cleaning or teeth whitening. If you know a friend who’s had considerable dental work done, talk to them about their dentist. You can also keep an ear open when a co-worker talks about their dentist’s work on them.

Talking to friends and family in the same local is also a great way to find a local dentist. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for close friends and family members who have a bright and happy smile. If you know someone who’s had a major dental problem before, ask them for their dentist’s name and contact info.

2. Get a Referral From a Physician

You can also ask your family doctor for help in finding a good family dentist. If you’ve gone to your physician with dental or oral issues, they may be the ones to recommend a dentist to you. Physicians who have young children can vouch for a good pediatric dentist too.

Also, most medical professionals won’t hesitate to assess their dentists. Thus, you can trust their judgment on dentist recommendations, too.

If you don’t have a family physician yet, talk to a local pharmacist. Like doctors, pharmacists get feedback on dentists near them. Don’t be afraid to ask a local pharmacist about a popular local dentist.

3. Go Online to Search for a Top-Rated Dentist

Another great way to find a top-rated dentist for your family is to get on Google. If you want to get a good dentist, you can rest assured that the internet can help you out. It’s as simple as typing ‘dentists near me’ on the search bar and pressing enter.

Depending on where you live, you may find an overwhelming amount of search results or only a handful. The most important thing is that you’ll find top-rated dentists on the search results. An online search also helps you make a list of probable family dentists.

The internet also gives you the chance to look at client reviews. If you want to, you can also use a dental provider review site. These sites give reviews and “ratings” of dentists in an area from clients.

4. Search the Database of Your Dental Society

Like doctors, dentists have dental associations and societies. If you want to find a dentist with top ratings, you can make dentist searches in the various associations. Some of these organizations include:

American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM)
American Dental Association (ADA)
Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)
American Academy for Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH)
The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT)

The organizations listed above are only a handful of dental associations in the US. Visit their websites or contact them to get access to their dentist database. Don’t forget to compare practices between the various associations.

5. Check Your Dental Insurance Network

Finally, you can use your dental insurance network to find a dentist for your family’s oral health.

This helps you find a dental professional within your insurance network. If you don’t have dental insurance, you can use your medical insurance to access the network. You get to access a list of dentists partnered with your dental or health plans.

What to Keep in Mind When Looking for a Family Dentist

You want to find a family dentist to take care of all the dental needs of your family. You may be lucky enough to find the perfect dental professional right off the bat. For some people, it took some more effort and time to find the right dentist.

Before you settle on a dentist, there are a few things you need to check first. Start with the dentist’s board certification and state licensure. Visit the American Board of Dental Specialties (ABDS) to look for the certification.

Better yet, check it before you visit and commit time to see the dentist. Unexpired board certification and state licensure is a good first sign. It’s also a guarantee that the dentist went through the proper procedures of getting where they are.

Also, you must remember that not all good dentists have good websites. The two things don’t have a direct correlation. After all, not all good car mechanics have a good website either.

It’s appealing to find a website with good design and interface. It’s even better if the website gives information about the clinic, like their practice and staff. However, don’t take this as a standard of judging whether or not a dentist is good.

Picking a dentist who can be part of your healthcare team is a necessity. However, if they’re not in your insurance network, that’s fine, too. Know that out-of-network dentists can charge anything for their services.

Find the Right Family Dentist

We understand that you only want the best dental professional for your family. Dental health is one of the most overlooked problems in young people. Finding a good family dentist can help correct early dental problems in children.

Now you know how to find a top-rated dentist. We hope you picked up something valuable from this post. If you want to learn more about dental health, feel free to check out our other guides as well.

How to Find the Best Disney Summer Vacation Deals

May 5, 2020 Travel and Vacations

Going to Disney over the summer isn’t as easy as you think. If you haven’t started planning at least a year in advance, you’re already behind.

It’s important to book everything early to make sure you’re getting the best rates and have time to make advanced bookings for rides or restaurants.

From booking an all-inclusive package to only park tickets — and figuring the rest out on your own — there are many options for planning your vacation. With 52 million visitors per year, Disney is a busy place.

Are you trying to plan a summer vacation to Disney but don’t know how to find the best deals?

Below, we’re going to discuss the differences between Disney resorts and off-site hotels, finding the best vacation deals, checking summer costs, and considering the Disney Vacation Club.

What to Choose: Disney Resorts vs. Off-Site Hotels

The first thing you’ll need to reserve for your Disney vacation is a place to stay.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to selecting accommodations. First of all, you need to decide if you’re flying or driving, what parks you want to see, and whether you prefer convenience or cost savings?

If, for example, you’re flying (and staying at a Disney Resort) you can take advantage of a free shuttle service. You’ll also want to select a hotel closest to the park you want to visit, like booking Disney’s Beach Club next to Epcot Center.

The clear difference between Disney Resorts and off-site hotels is the price. Non-Disney affiliated hotels only a mile away from the park can be hundreds of dollars cheaper.

But, beware of booking an off-site hotel to save money. Do a cost comparison before making a final decision.

Disney Resort guests have no commutes (besides walking a few feet, taking a monorail, or gondola) and they get extra perks and amenities. They also get free MagicBands, Extra Magic Hours, and advanced ride bookings through the FastPass.

With careful planning, you can save money by booking an off-site hotel but it’s easy for the costs of transportation, food, and services to pile up.

Tips for Finding Disney Vacation Deals

Disney offers many special offers, discounts, and deals for families planning a vacation. Keep checking their promotions page because new deals are updated regularly.

Some Disney discounts are available all of the time, including discounts for military personnel, AAA members, Florida residents, and annual pass holders.

These deals can apply to the resorts or park admission. Some are only worth a few bucks but others can save you money. Many families on a budget also take advantage of Disney’s “Value Days,” or certain days of the year when prices are lower.

For the most part, prices drop when school is in session but Disney planning pros recommend booking your trip for January to February or August to September. Late fall can also be a good time as temperatures dip and rides are closed for maintenance.

Want to get specific with your dates? Check out the Disney Crowd Calendar to see what days are busiest and what to look for when you’re there. The calendar ranks crowd size from 1 to 10, with 10 being extremely busy.

Another option to save a few dollars is to visit a legitimate discounter like Undercover Tourist, TicketMomma, or Maple Leaf Tickets for wholesale tickets. Don’t try purchasing tickets from places like Craigslist or eBay, and be cautious of online scammers.

Need a few extra tips? Avoid booking over the weekend because prices can be up to 25% higher. And when buying Disney tickets, the longer your trip is scheduled the more you’ll save on rooms and park admission.

Check Disney Summer Vacation Costs Before Booking

If you’re serious about getting a deal with your Disney vacation, research is your best friend.

Disney offers more discounts than they posted online, they just don’t broadcast it to the masses. You have to be savvy and bold to hunt these deals down.

The easiest way to research your vacation is by going straight to the source: Walt Disney World.

Planning pros recommend making a spreadsheet of all available vacation packages, with specifics about costs, perks, and amenities. This is part of the cost comparison we mentioned earlier.

Don’t forget that Disney rates change daily. You may want to try different days to find exactly what you’re looking for, and always click on the actual resort or hotel links to discover the lowest prices.

Buy Points from the Disney Vacation Club

Have you ever heard of the Disney Vacation Club? It’s a timeshare program where members buy DVC points to save money on staying in a deluxe-level Disney Resort. This program is perfect for people who visit Disney multiple times a year.

Points typically cost between $140 to $165 and members have to purchase a minimum of 100 points. Members book reservations at one of fifteen DVC properties or a few affiliate resorts around the world.

When planning your vacation you can choose to “rent” points from DVC members who didn’t use up all of their credits or sign up for your DVC contract.

Another DVC option to consider is the resale market, which is for members who want to sell their contracts to someone else.

Members of the Disney Vacation Club are also responsible for annual maintenance fees. They range from $6 to $10 per year, depending on the resort. This should factor into your decision about joining the DVC.

Book Your Dream Summer Vacation to Disney

You’re now ready to book the Disney summer vacation of your dreams!

Remember to select the right hotel for your budget and needs, regularly check for Disney discounts online, and book as much as you can in advance.

Do you love a deal? We know you do otherwise you wouldn’t be reading this article. Check out more of our blog for tips on planning vacations on a budget.

We also have frugal living tips on fashion, cooking, crafts, fitness, gardening, and more. Visit our deals section for coupons and hot deals from big retailers and food chains.

Why Do People Get Sad? The Causes of Seasonal Affective Disorder

May 5, 2020 Health & Fitness

Woman Suffering with Seasonal Affective Disorder

Everybody gets sad from time-to-time, and everybody has their own triggers. For many, all it takes is a change of seasons to experience this detrimental mood-shift.

SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder, affects one in three people in the UK alone. But why do people get sad when the season changes? Keep reading to learn more about SAD.

What Is SAD?

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a major depressive disorder brought on by a change in the season. Specifically, it happens during the colder winter months. It’s most typical in young adults and women, but can affect anyone at any time.

Sufferers of SAD may experience bleak thought processes, depression, and even suicidal thoughts during the colder months. This can cause troubles in their personal lives, their work, and their overall health.

Some common symptoms of wintertime SAD include:

Trouble concentrating
Irritable mood/mood swings
Feelings of lethargy
Sudden weight gain
General poor mood/lack of happiness
Lack of motivation, even for activities you usually enjoy
Suicidal thoughts
Oversleeping
Low Energy

It’s also important to note that SAD can happen in the summertime as well as the wintertime. It’s just far more common in the cold months than the warm ones. Some symptoms are more common with warm-weather SAD, including:

Insomnia
Sudden weight loss
Anxiety, irritability
Craving bad foods/bad appetite

Why Do People Get SAD?

There’s no concrete reason why some people feel the effects of SAD and others don’t. However, there are theories as to what might contribute to SAD.

SAD can happen at any time to any person. It can come on suddenly, or it can be present from birth. It does, however, affect people in certain locations more than others.

For example, SAD is much more common in places like Alaska and Canada, where there’s snow and frigid temperatures for a good portion of the year. These locations experience less sunlight, meaning people get less sunlight in general. This can have a negative effect on hormones, mood regulation, and sleep schedules, which can lead to depression.

When you experience less sunlight than recommended, your circadian rhythm is thrown off. When your circadian rhythm, or internal clock, is off, you fall prey to depression and anxiety.

Reduced light can also lead to a drop in serotonin, one of the main chemicals that affect mood. Without enough serotonin, you’ll feel more depressed. A change in seasons can also mess with your melatonin levels, creating changes in your sleep pattern and mood.

You may also be at higher risk of SAD if your family has a history of depression or other psychological conditions. If you have a known psychological condition like bipolar or depression, it might get worse when the season changes.

Getting a Diagnosis

SAD can be difficult to diagnose initially. The symptoms of SAD are similar to several other conditions. These include bipolar, mononucleosis, and hypothyroidism, as well as other conditions like severe depression and anxiety.

The doctor will perform a series of tests to rule out as many conditions as possible. If they can rule out most conditions, they’ll ask you about the specifics of the condition. They may ask when you first noticed it, how frequently the symptoms occur, and about your current lifestyle.

It’s important to see a doctor as soon as you can if you think you might have SAD. There’s no reason to suffer through feelings of depression if they can be dealt with. The sooner you get help, the sooner you can get back to your regular schedule.

Can SAD Be Treated?

There’s no chemical solution to treating SAD. Like many psychological disorders, you can’t just make it go away with drugs.

Managing SAD can be done, though. Many people seek out therapy or counseling to help deal with their SAD. Sometimes, talking about it is enough to get a SAD sufferer through the season.

Other people choose to go through light therapy. Light therapy is a way of simulating natural light using a special visor or lightbox. The patient does this for half an hour or longer each day, allowing them to get the sunlight they miss out on in the winter.

Another good practice is following a healthy lifestyle. A simple regimen of exercise, plenty of sleep, and a healthy diet is sometimes enough to stave off symptoms of SAD.

If all else fails, antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can be prescribed for SAD. It’s likely a good idea to go through every other option before resorting to this method, though. If you’re experiencing the symptoms of SAD, speak to your doctor as soon as you can.

Can I Treat SAD at Home?

There are a few ways you can combat SAD from the comfort of your own home.

One thing you can do is buy your own light therapy box. With your own light therapy box, you don’t have to visit a doctor to get treatments. You can get the light you crave at any time of the day without needing to disrupt your usual schedule.

You could also invest in a dawn simulator. These are types of alarm clocks that produce bright light rather than sound. They’ll slowly increase in light intensity, allowing you to wake up in a natural, SAD-fighting way.

Working out is one of the easiest, most effective ways to fight SAD from home. Set up a home gym, go out for a walk on a sunny day, or just do some simple stretches.

Aromatherapy is another way people with SAD find relief. The smell of essential oils is a great mood booster, and can even have positive effects on your circadian rhythm.

You Don’t Have to Be SAD

If you or a loved one suffer from SAD, you’re not alone. Now that you know why do people get SAD, you know how to better deal with it. Take the helpful tips above into account and get back to your regular lifestyle.

For more articles like this, and ways to save money, check out the rest of our blog.

How Your Laundry Times Affect the Environment

April 21, 2020 Green Living

Did you now that your washer and dryer habits could be wreaking havoc on the environment?

We may not realize it, but even the smallest habits and choices can add up to large effects on the health of the planet.

Are you wondering how you can lessen your impact on the environment by changing the way you get a common household chore done?

Keep reading to learn about how your laundry times affect the environment.

Wait Until You Have a Full Load

If you want to wear a certain outfit, you might be tempted to do laundry with half a load or less, but this can be extremely wasteful.

To save energy, you should remember that the best time to do laundry is when you have a full load that needs cleaning. If you need to, you can combine your clothes with your kids’ clothes, for instance.

It also helps if you invest in an energy-efficient washer and dryer.

Use Cold Water in Most Cases

One way to save energy and money is by setting your washing machine to a cold water setting. If you have an energy-efficient machine, it might even have an ‘eco warm’ setting that will also help a lot. This will allow you to avoid using the heater which ends up using an abundance of energy.

It might sound counterproductive to use cold water but, in most cases, clothes can get clean just fine without hot water. If you have really tough stains to get out of your clothes, such as those that come from grease, then that’s when you should use hot water.

By keeping this in mind, you can significantly reduce the number of times that you’ll need to use hot water to clean your clothes.

Hang Dry More Often

While having energy efficiency washers can help a lot, you can do even more by switching to hang drying instead of using a machine dryer. This isn’t a common practice in America, but it should be.

Not only do machine dryers use a lot of energy but they can actually heat up your house as you use them. This often causes people to turn on their air conditioner, which wastes even more energy.

Hang drying is simpler and easier than most people probably think. All you need is a clothesline or pins. To make it even easier, you can simply hang clothes on hangers outside.

You can learn more about how to have greener habits when you keep up to date with the Climate Leadership Council, which was founded by Ted Halstead.

Ready to Change Your Laundry Times?

Now that you’ve learned all about how your laundry times affect the environment, you can do your best to minimize your impact on it. You can also begin to change other habits for the betterment of yourself, the environment, and the planet as a whole.

Do you want to stay up to date on all things related to health, travel, relationships, and more? Bookmark our website so that you can always stay informed.

Save Time and Money at Disney World With These 8 Practical Tips

April 19, 2020 Travel and Vacations

Are you planning a trip to Disney World?

Visiting Disney can be a magical experience, but only if you plan ahead and arrive prepared. Otherwise, you might wind up wasting tons of time and spending a fortune.

If that sounds stressful, don’t worry. This article is for you!

We’ll cover eight essential tips for visiting Disney World, handpicked to help you save time and money. Keep reading to learn more.

Top 8 Tips for Visiting Disney World

With over 20 million annual visitors, Disney World’s Magic Kingdom is the world’s most-visited theme park. So, showing up unprepared can leave you standing in line for hours, spending more than you want, and enjoying your vacation less.

For the best experience possible, follow these Disney World vacation tips:

1. Buy Tickets in Advance

Did you know that most theme parks increase their entrance fees every year? Buying your tickets in advance can help you avoid these price hikes and save a bundle on admission.

Plus, the longer you stay in the park, the cheaper each day becomes. But, only if you buy ahead! Adding an extra day or two to your trip suddenly can add hundreds of dollars in unnecessary spending.

2. Stay on Property

Most room rates include complimentary shuttles to and from all the different Disney parks. For you, that means no parking or rental car fees.

Plus, you’ll have easy access to Disney’s Extra Magic Hours. On these select days, certain parks open earlier or stay open later, and staying on property will give you a head start on the crowds.

3. Shop Around

Discounts for Disney are few and far between. But, sales on tickets, hotels, and vacation packages do exist.

Frequent fliers should contact their airline about reduced rates. And, if you work for a major US company, research whether they offer any benefits for taking a trip to Disney World. You might be surprised at what you find!

4. Free Activities

Some hotels offer free nature walks, campfire sing-alongs, movie nights, and more! You can also find free shows and boat rides in smaller parks like Disney Springs.

Traveling with kids who like to use their hands? Plan a stop at the Lego store, where your family can spend time using the hands-on play tables and check out larger than life Lego models of Disney characters.

5. Avoid Peak Season

Visiting outside Disney’s peak season, which includes major holidays and all of the summer months can save you up to $50 a day in park admission fees. And, visiting during the week is far cheaper than on a weekend when it comes to ticket and hotel prices.

A Disney World crowd calendar can help you find your perfect dates, avoid unnecessarily long lines, and get you the best value for money possible.

6. Plan Your Meals

You should avoid all-inclusive meal plans if you want to visit Disney World on a budget.

Be sure to travel with plenty of healthy snacks for before and after your day in the park. These can come in handy while you’re waiting for an early morning shuttle, or if you want to piece together a low-cost meal in your hotel room, too.

Pick where to have meals in advance. Otherwise, you might end up spending extra on pricy restaurants or spend hours waiting for a table.

7. BYOB

You’re planning to spend days in the sun and Florida heat, so you and your family will definitely get thirsty. Skip the cost of disposable water bottles by bringing your own.

Every quick-service restaurant on Disney property will provide water and ice to guests free of charge, even if you don’t buy a meal. This can save you up to $5 per refill, and it’s an earth-friendly way to improve your trip.

8. Skip Some Extras

Simply put, if it doesn’t sound essential, you probably don’t need it. Skip extras like photo packages and character meals. We promise you’ll never miss them.

Instead, opt for extra spending when it comes to experiences like visiting water parks or taking a side trip.

Start Planning Today

Now that you’ve got some time and money-saving tips for visiting Disney World, you’re probably excited to start planning.

Remember, you’ll save the most if you start looking for discounts on admission and accommodations months before your visit. Plus, with this strategy, you’ll have plenty of time to save up for a few little extras.

If you enjoyed this article, check out the rest of our helpful blog posts for tips on parenting, travel, family wellness, and more.

Mimosa Pudica Seeds: What Are They Used For?

April 19, 2020 Health & Fitness

If you’ve been looking for a natural way to boost your immune system, you may have come across Mimosa pudica seeds.

What are Mimosa pudica seeds exactly, and what do they do?

Keep reading to learn all about the benefits of Mimosa pudica seeds.

Kills Parasites

One of the primary uses of Mimosa pudica seeds is to remove parasites from the gut.

One study saw researchers add Mimosa pudica seeds to a test-tube full of roundworm. The seeds paralyzed and killed the roundworms. The worms were permanently made inactive.

If you’re suffering from parasites, Mimosa pudica can flush the pests out of your system for good.

Prevents Liver Damage

When used on rodents with liver problems, Mimosa pudica worked to prevent further liver damage. It was just as effective as some liver-protecting drugs! Couple that with the fact that it’s all-natural, and you’ve got an excellent choice for protecting your liver.

It’s not called the “touch-me-not plant” for no reason.

Promotes Gut Health & Mental Health

When you swallow Mimosa pudica seeds, they swell up in your gut and turn into a sort of paste. This sticky paste latches onto bacteria, heavy metals, and other toxins in your stomach. Then, the toxins are removed from your system via your bowel movements.

The Mimosa pudica will travel through your bowels on the way out, cleaning as it moves.

Mental health is linked directly to gut health. The majority of serotonin is made in the guy, and parasites and other toxins can hinder serotonin production. If you suffer from depression, anxiety, insomnia, or irritability, learn about mimosa pudica and see if it could be right for you.

Regenerates the Sciatic Nerve

Few pains are as bad as sciatic nerve pain. It branches all across the body, extending from the back to the legs. Sufferers of sciatic nerve pain are continually looking for better ways to find relief.

Mimosa pudica is a fantastic sciatic nerve regenerated. When tested on rats, Mimosa pudica restored the sciatic nerve 40% better than steroid-based treatments.

Heals Wounds

Mimosa pudica has been used in traditional alternative medicine for decades. People used to warm the seeds up into a paste and apply it to wounds to stop bleeding. It was also put around boils to help release the pus.

While there was no way to test the effectiveness of these methods in the past scientifically, there is now. Researchers have found that Mimosa pudica seeds help wounds heal, and also promote skin health. The seeds contain manganese, iron, and other minerals beneficial in fighting infection and healing the skin.

Try Mimosa Pudica Seeds

There are a lot of different uses for Mimosa pudica seeds. Whether you’re looking for a mental health booster or a parasite killer, Mimosa pudica is a natural and effective way to find relief. If you’re struggling to find relief, try Mimosa pudica today.

For more informative articles like this, check out the rest of our blog.

4 Kinds of Insurance Every Self Employed Person Needs to Have

April 19, 2020 Personal Finance

Approximately 16 million Americans are self-employed. Are you one of them?

If you’re self-employed, there’s a good chance you’re going without insurance or are underinsured. Insurance might seem like a luxury, especially if you’re dealing with a tight budget. It’s important to make sure you’re covered, though.

Read on to learn more about the four essential types of insurance for self-employed people. You’ll also learn how to choose the right insurance policy for yourself and your family (if you have one).

Why Do You Need Insurance?

Insurance is expensive. There’s no getting around it.

Because it’s so expensive, a lot of self-employed people try to convince themselves that they don’t need it. This couldn’t be further from the truth, though.

The following are some of the most important reasons why everyone needs insurance (including those who are self-employed):

Insurance safeguards you and your family’s financial needs
Insurance helps you provide for your family if something happens to you (death, disability, etc.)
Some insurance plans (like life insurance plans) help you save for the future
Insurance gives you peace of mind

For many people, the peace of mind that they get from being insured is worth the upfront costs. Knowing that you have a bit of a safety net can make a world of difference.

4 Essential Types of Insurance for Self-Employed People

Okay, you’re warming up a bit to the idea of getting insurance. What kind of insurance do you need, though?

There are lots of different types of insurance available to self-employed people. The following four are the most important types to consider purchasing:

1. Health Insurance

First of all, everyone ought to have health insurance. Even though there’s no longer a government mandate requiring everyone to be insured, it’s still important.

Investing in health insurance now can save you a lot of money later. This is especially true if you or someone in your family gets sick and needs medical care.

Remember, too, that self-employed individuals get a special tax deduction for health insurance. If you’re like most self-employed people, you’re always looking for ways to reduce your tax bill. Buying health insurance is an easy way to do this.

2. Term Life Insurance

Another type of insurance to purchase is term life insurance. Term life insurance is more affordable than whole life insurance, but it still provides some protection for your family in the event that you pass away.

A term life insurance policy will provide your descendants with money to help pay for the cost of your funeral. They can also use the money to pay off any debts you might have accrued and maintain their quality of life after you’re gone.

3. Business Insurance

While you’re insuring yourself, you also should take steps to insure your business. Business insurance protects you, your business, and your employees. There are a few different types of business insurance you ought to purchase, including the following:

General liability insurance
Professional liability insurance
Workers’ compensation insurance

This might seem like a lot at first. If something happens to your business, though, like a lawsuit or an employee injury, you’ll be glad you covered yourself and the company.

4. Long-Term Disability Insurance

What would you do if you experienced a serious injury tomorrow and couldn’t go to work? How would you continue paying for your house or buying groceries for your family?

Long-term disability insurance allows you to continue receiving a portion of your salary after you’ve been injured or become disabled in some way. It can be a lifesaver during difficult times and allows you to focus on recovery while also resting assured that you and your family’s needs are being met.

How to Choose the Right Insurance Policy

Shopping for insurance can be overwhelming. There are so many different providers and policies out there, and everyone claims that theirs is the best.

How are you supposed to know which one to buy? Start by following these insurance shopping tips:

Work with an Independent Agent

In general, it’s best to work with an independent insurance agent. They aren’t beholden to a particular insurance company and will help you to weigh the pros and cons of different providers. They can be more objective and will make sure you understand each policy option before you make a decision.

Research Each Insurance Company

Before you decide to buy a policy from a particular insurance company, do some research into it. Learn about their reputation as well as their financial health.

An insurance policy won’t do you any good if the insurance company goes under before you have a chance to reap any of the benefits, right? Looking into the company’s health and overall reputation will help you ensure they’re a good fit for you and will be around when you need them.

Consider Coverage Options

Pay careful attention to the type of coverage you’ll receive with each insurance policy. Read through everything and ask questions if anything confuses you. You ought to know exactly what you’re getting before you agree to pay for a particular policy.

Pay Attention to Price

Speaking of paying, don’t forget to take note of the price, too. Find out what the premium (the amount you’re supposed to pay per month or year) is for each policy and consider what you get for that price.

Whether you’re shopping for health insurance for self employed people or a life insurance policy, remember to ask about discounts, too. Many insurance providers offer discounts for everything from bundling policies to living a healthy lifestyle. You never know what you might qualify for, but it’s always good to check in case there’s an option available that will help you save money.

Get Insured Today

Now that you know more about the essential types of insurance for self-employed people, as well as how to choose the right insurance provider and policy for your needs, it’s time to get to work. Follow the guidelines laid out about as you begin looking for a policy that feels like a good fit for you.

Do you want to learn more about insurance or handling life as a self-employed individual? If so, we have lots of resources available on our site. Head to the Tips section today for more information.