Planning for Medical Emergencies

When you're living with heart disease, it's vital to keep stress under control. A medical emergency doesn’t just harm your health, it can also affect your financial well-being.  When you are worried about financial stability, it's harder for you to get well.
 
Whether you have a health condition now or you're just worried about what might happen, there are several smart steps you can take to protect your finances. 
 
There are things you can do right now to plan for a medical crisis:

• Review your health insurance.
• Open and invest in a health savings account and/or flexible spending account.
  
• Develop a financial power of attorney plan.
  
• Consider buying a disability insurance policy.
  
• Create a budget your financial proxy can follow.
• Determine your options for work while you recover.

It is important to have your financial medical emergency plan ready and organized because life can change in an instant. You'll need the help of your loved ones as you move through this time. If you've designated a financial power of attorney, that person can take over money management for you. However, if you do not you will need to choose someone you trust to work with you and help you deal with your affairs.
 
Do not forget State of Illinois employees and retirees have access to the MyBenefits Plus program, where you can sign up for payroll deducted accident, critical injury and hospital indemnity policies to give you more protection. Log into MyBenefits.illinois.gov to see which policies are right for your needs.
 
For additional tips to prepare for financial emergencies please click on the link below:
https://youtu.be/UzhpPN1SXUk