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Two shocks to the system

July 13th, 2007 at 01:54 pm

Yesterday I got my first communication about my medical benefits post-retirement. After reading and re-reading the almost incomprehensible document, I figured out that I need to apply for COBRA, that it will be $394 a month, and that -- I was cut off on 6/30/2007? So I'm not insured now and nobody told me? Man, I hate bureaucracy.

I also learned that my TV was too old to be properly hooked up to DirecTV, the VCR AND the DVD. My system used to work in Indiana, but I didn't have DirecTV, just cable. So I went TV-shopping. After a brief flirtation on the skinny-screen aisle, I decided to get an old-fashioned big-tube TV and DVD combo (my DVD was old, too, a reject from my son). With a $20 rebate for opening a Wal-Mart card, I got it for $168. Plus, my cousin, who felt bad that I couldn't make my system work with DirecTV, chipped in $50. She said to consider it a housewarming gift. So I did resolve the situation pretty cheaply, and I am very pleased with the picture on the new TV.

3 Responses to “Two shocks to the system”

  1. nance Says:
    1184332309



    That is pretty scary about the insurance. Cobra only lasts 18 months, too.
    Can you look into an HSA (health savings account)?
    It might be a better deal for you in the long run.

    Did your former employer lead you to believe that you would have coverage after retiring? Anyting in writing?

    That complicates retirement, doesn't it? Good luck.

  2. Ima saver Says:
    1184335947

    Good luck with your new tv!!

  3. Aleta Says:
    1184361497

    Sorry that you're having to go through this. I'm not exactly a lover of insurance. Try to get as much information as you can. I don't know your age and what and how long this would effect you.

    As for the TV, sounds like it was a good change. Sometimes I hold on to items too long myself and can't believe how happy I get with an updated type.

    I'm rereadomg an old book. It's called STOP WORRYING AND START LIVING by Dale Carnegie. It's amazing how relevant his advice is today. It has really helped me out with my new homeowner's insurance premium that totally surprized me. I'm handling things much more calmly now. Maybe you should think about picking up the book. It's great. You're doing fine and at least you have someone with you to help you with the journey. God bless you!

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