August Agency Insights
Back-to-School, Benefits & Breakfast with Candace
August is that in-between month — it still feels like summer, but we’re already making back-to-school checklists, prepping for enrollment season, and getting back into routines. It’s the perfect time to check in on your health, life, and dental insurance plans, especially with major enrollment periods right around the corner.
At Insurance Benefit Navigators, we help individuals and families across Florida feel confident and covered, from the classroom to retirement and everything in between.
College-Bound?
Don’t Forget the Health Insurance
- Under Age 26? They may stay on a parent’s plan.
- Qualify for Subsidies? Marketplace plans often offer great rates for college-age students with low income.
- Part-time jobs? Students earning under certain limits often qualify for $0 premium plans with full coverage.
Tip: If your student splits time between two cities (like Miami and Melbourne), we’ll help you make sure they have access to care in both.
FAQ: Can students get their own plan even if they’re under 26? Yes! If it’s a better fit due to location or cost, they can enroll in their own Marketplace plan — especially if they’re not claimed as a dependent on your taxes.
Open Enrollment Season Is Coming
Mark your calendars:
- Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): October 15 – December 7
- ACA Open Enrollment Period: November 1 – December 15
It may feel early, but we’re already scheduling reviews and helping clients prepare. Booking early gives you a better chance of a personalized, stress-free plan review.
Tip: Turning 65 soon? Ask us about your Initial Enrollment Period. It starts months before your birthday!
Insurance FAQ:
What’s Changing for 2026?
A more in-depth blog post was posted last month, but here’s a quick preview:
- Auto-reenrollment is ending – you’ll need to actively select and enroll in your plan.
- $0 premium plans will now renew at $5/month unless you update your information.
- Tighter rules around income verification and Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs).
- Past-due premium rules are back: You may have to pay outstanding premiums before starting a new plan.
Our team is ready to guide you through these changes with clarity and care.
Life Insurance Awareness Month Is Almost Here
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, so August is the perfect time to prepare.
FAQ: What kind of life insurance is best?
That depends on your needs. Here’s a quick overview:
- Term Life: Cost-effective and ideal for income replacement or debt protection.
- Whole Life: Builds cash value and offers long-term coverage.
- Final Expense: Covers funeral and end-of-life costs with smaller policies.
We’re here to help you explore the right plan for your goals, with no pressure.
Cooking with Candace: Power Up Your Morning with Overnight Oats (3 Ways)
Back-to-school season can mean rushed mornings. But a healthy breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated.
Watch this month’s Cooking with Candace video:
Basic Overnight Oats Recipe:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1/4 cup yogurt (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds
- Sweetener of your choice
Refrigerate overnight and enjoy in the morning.
Flavor Ideas:
- PB Banana Crunch: Add banana slices, peanut butter, and granola
- Berry Bliss: Mix in berries, vanilla, and honey
- Peaches and Cream: Add chopped peaches, cinnamon, granola and a touch of maple syrup
Fun August Facts
- August is National Wellness Month — a great reminder to review your benefits and book a physical.
- Social Security was signed into law in August 1935 — a pivotal moment for senior benefits in the U.S.
- Back-to-school shopping is second only to the holidays in annual spending — make sure your insurance is part of your plan.
Let’s Connect Before the Rush
Whether it’s Medicare planning, college health insurance, or exploring life insurance, August is the perfect time to prepare. We’re here and ready to help.
Schedule your no-pressure appointment today:
Call, email, or visit www.joinibn.com to get started.