Annual Service Fee Checkup

Answer 1

Start the new year off in the know about annual fees on service agreements. Check for increases in the cost of coverage for insurance, health policies, and telecommunication services so you can plan in advance for possible rate increases. Listed are many services that renew annually.

Insurance

Schedule a meeting with your employer’s HR manager to find out the expected cost of carrying health insurance. Know when life insurance policies renew an at what cost; check to see if your next birthday will affect these cost. Insurance on property from a home to a electronic devices should be assessed for cost and coverage.

Credit

Know when annual credit card fees will be charged to your credit cards. Unsecured loans like student loans should also be monitored annually. Monthly payments and interest rates often change over the life of these loans. Don’t get caught off guard when they do. Request repayment schedules at the beginning of the year.

Warranties

Check warranty plans to know when they renew. Call customer service to find out what your annual fee covers as major appliances age. Their may be a better deal with a limited service agreement versus full coverage.

Specialty Services

Emergency responder plans like LifeAlert, home security services, cable and satellite, and other telecommunication service plans should all be reviewed at the beginning of the year. You’ll want to know months in advance if this is the year the cost doubles for cable service, because your contract discount is due to expire.