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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7026 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 11, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Apr 12, 2024Hindi
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Please guide us on Health insurance and term insurance policy ?

Ans: Let's delve into the importance of health insurance and term insurance policies in securing your financial well-being:

Health Insurance:

Health insurance is a crucial aspect of financial planning, providing coverage for medical expenses arising from illness or injury.
It safeguards you and your family against the financial burden of healthcare costs, ensuring access to quality medical treatment without depleting your savings.
Choose a comprehensive health insurance policy that offers coverage for hospitalization, pre and post-hospitalization expenses, outpatient treatments, and critical illnesses.
Consider factors such as coverage limit, network hospitals, co-payment clauses, and waiting periods before selecting a policy.
Regularly review your health insurance coverage to ensure it remains adequate for your evolving healthcare needs, especially as you age.
Additionally, consider purchasing a health insurance policy with lifelong renewability to secure coverage in the long term.
Term Insurance:

Term insurance provides financial protection to your family in the event of your untimely demise, ensuring they can maintain their standard of living even in your absence.
It offers a high sum assured at an affordable premium, making it a cost-effective way to secure your loved ones' financial future.
Opt for a term insurance policy with a sum assured that adequately covers your family's financial needs, including outstanding debts, future expenses like education and marriage, and income replacement.
Choose a policy with a flexible tenure that aligns with your financial obligations and life stage. Consider opting for a longer tenure if you have dependents or financial liabilities that may extend into the future.
Regularly review your term insurance coverage to ensure it remains sufficient, especially during significant life events such as marriage, childbirth, or career advancements.
By investing in both health insurance and term insurance policies, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from unforeseen financial setbacks and secure a peaceful future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7026 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 17, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 04, 2024Hindi
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Money
Hi..i would like to purchase a medical insurance policy which have term insurance too..Please advice
Ans: t's commendable that you're considering both medical and term insurance. Here's some advice on each:

Medical Insurance Policy:
When purchasing a medical insurance policy, consider the following:

Coverage Amount: Opt for a policy with adequate coverage that can handle major medical expenses.
Pre-existing Conditions: Check if the policy covers pre-existing conditions, and if there's a waiting period.
Network Hospitals: Ensure the policy offers a wide network of hospitals for cashless treatments.
Claim Process: Look for policies with a straightforward and hassle-free claim process.
Additional Benefits: Some policies offer benefits like OPD coverage, maternity benefits, etc. Choose based on your needs.
Term Insurance Policy:
For term insurance, focus on:

Coverage Amount: Choose a coverage amount that would adequately support your family's financial needs in case of your untimely demise.
Policy Tenure: Opt for a policy term that aligns with your financial obligations and retirement age.
Rider Options: Consider adding riders like critical illness or accidental death benefit for comprehensive coverage.
Claim Settlement Ratio: Look for insurers with a high claim settlement ratio for a smoother claim process.
Premium: Compare premiums from different insurers to get the best value for your money.
Remember, while it might be convenient to combine both in one policy, it's often more beneficial to purchase them separately to ensure tailored coverage for each need. It's advisable to consult with an insurance advisor or planner to help you choose the right policies based on your specific requirements and budget.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7026 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 10, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 04, 2024Hindi
Money
Need to buy a comprehensive health insurance for myself, wife and a kid 3 years old . Also need to buy term plan. Pl suggest.
Ans: Buying comprehensive health insurance and a term plan for your family is a wise decision. It ensures financial security in case of unforeseen medical emergencies and provides life coverage. Let’s explore the best way to choose and purchase these insurance plans.


First, I appreciate your proactive approach towards securing your family’s future. Thinking about health insurance and a term plan at this stage is a responsible move. This decision will safeguard your family's financial well-being.

Understanding Your Needs
You are a family of three: yourself, your wife, and a 3-year-old child. You need comprehensive health insurance and a term plan. Let's break down how to proceed effectively.

Choosing Comprehensive Health Insurance
1. Sum Insured:

Opt for a high sum insured to cover significant medical expenses. Consider Rs. 10-15 lakhs coverage for your family.

2. Network Hospitals:

Choose an insurance provider with a wide network of hospitals. This ensures cashless treatment options in emergencies.

3. Pre and Post-Hospitalization:

Look for plans covering pre and post-hospitalization expenses. These costs can add up and strain your finances.

4. No-Claim Bonus:

Select a policy offering a no-claim bonus. This increases your sum insured for every claim-free year without additional premium.

5. Family Floater Plan:

A family floater plan covers all members under a single policy. It's cost-effective and simplifies management.

6. Maternity and Newborn Cover:

Check if the policy includes maternity benefits and newborn cover. This is crucial for families planning to expand.

7. Daycare Procedures:

Ensure the policy covers daycare procedures. These are treatments requiring less than 24 hours of hospitalization.

8. Critical Illness Cover:

Consider adding a critical illness rider. It provides a lump sum amount on diagnosis of specified critical illnesses.

Evaluating Term Plan Options
1. Coverage Amount:

Opt for a term plan with coverage of at least 10-15 times your annual income. This ensures financial stability for your family.

2. Policy Tenure:

Choose a tenure covering your working years. Ideally, the policy should last until your retirement age.

3. Claim Settlement Ratio:

Check the insurer's claim settlement ratio. A higher ratio indicates reliability and better chances of claim approval.

4. Riders and Add-Ons:

Consider adding riders like accidental death benefit, critical illness cover, and waiver of premium. These enhance your policy's coverage.

5. Premium Waiver:

Choose a term plan with a premium waiver option in case of critical illness or disability. This ensures the policy remains active.

6. Flexibility:

Select a plan allowing flexibility in premium payments. Options like annual, semi-annual, or monthly premiums can be convenient.

7. Online vs. Offline Plans:

Online plans are often cheaper due to lower administrative costs. Compare both options and choose the best fit.

8. Inflation Adjustment:

Ensure your coverage keeps pace with inflation. Some term plans offer increasing sum assured options.

Health Insurance: Key Features to Consider
1. Room Rent Cap:

Check if the policy has a room rent cap. Higher caps or no limits are preferable to avoid out-of-pocket expenses.

2. Co-Payment:

Avoid policies with high co-payment clauses. These require you to pay a portion of the claim amount.

3. Sub-Limits:

Beware of sub-limits on specific treatments. Choose policies with minimal or no sub-limits for better coverage.

4. Network Hospitals:

Ensure the insurer has a vast network of hospitals. This facilitates cashless treatment and reduces hassle during emergencies.

5. Health Check-Ups:

Some policies offer free annual health check-ups. These are beneficial for monitoring your family's health.

Term Plan: Important Considerations
1. Pure Protection:

Term plans are pure protection plans. They provide a high sum assured at an affordable premium.

2. Low Premiums:

Term plans have lower premiums compared to other life insurance policies. This makes them cost-effective.

3. No Maturity Benefit:

Term plans do not offer maturity benefits. The policy only pays out in case of the policyholder’s death.

4. Tax Benefits:

Premiums paid for term insurance are eligible for tax deductions under Section 80C. Death benefits are tax-free under Section 10(10D).

Making an Informed Decision
1. Compare Policies:

Use online comparison tools to compare policies. Look at features, premiums, and customer reviews.

2. Read Reviews:

Customer reviews provide insights into the insurer's service quality. Check for feedback on claim settlement processes.

3. Consult a Certified Financial Planner:

A CFP can help tailor policies to your specific needs. They provide expert advice and personalized recommendations.

Steps to Buy Health Insurance and Term Plan
1. Assess Your Needs:

Evaluate your family’s medical history, lifestyle, and future needs. This helps determine the appropriate coverage.

2. Research and Compare:

Research various policies and compare features. Look for policies offering the best value for your needs.

3. Check Exclusions:

Understand the exclusions in both health and term plans. This prevents surprises during claim time.

4. Read Policy Documents:

Read the policy documents carefully. Ensure you understand all terms, conditions, and benefits.

5. Apply Online:

Most insurers offer online applications. It’s convenient and often comes with discounts.

6. Medical Tests:

Undergo any required medical tests. Accurate disclosure of health conditions is crucial for claim approval.

7. Review Annually:

Review your policies annually. Update them as your needs change.

Benefits of Comprehensive Health Insurance
1. Financial Security:

Health insurance provides financial security during medical emergencies. It covers hospitalization and treatment costs.

2. Peace of Mind:

Knowing you’re covered brings peace of mind. You can focus on recovery without financial worries.

3. Quality Healthcare:

Insurance ensures access to quality healthcare. You can choose the best hospitals and doctors.

4. Preventive Care:

Many policies cover preventive care and annual check-ups. This helps in early detection and treatment of diseases.

Advantages of Term Insurance
1. Financial Protection:

Term insurance ensures your family’s financial stability. It provides a lump sum amount in your absence.

2. Affordable Premiums:

Term plans are affordable. They offer high coverage at low premiums.

3. Flexibility:

You can choose the coverage amount and tenure. This provides flexibility to match your financial goals.

4. Tax Benefits:

Term insurance premiums qualify for tax deductions. This reduces your tax liability.

Final Insights
Choosing the right health insurance and term plan requires careful consideration. A high sum insured and extensive network hospitals are crucial for health insurance. For term plans, adequate coverage and a reliable insurer are key. Regularly review and update your policies to ensure they meet your evolving needs. Your proactive approach and responsible financial planning are commendable. By securing comprehensive health and term insurance, you’re ensuring a secure future for your family.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Dr Shyam

Dr Shyam Jamalabad  |78 Answers  |Ask -

Dentist - Answered on Nov 14, 2024

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Dr. Shyam, I had my teeth cleaned 6 months ago and after that was done I saw discoloration on certain teeth that wasn't there before. Years ago I had my teeth cleaned and one particular tooth after the cleaning was sensitive to touch. I had a crown put in from two different dental offices. The first one did the crown right, but was trying to charge me $3,500 more than the agreement they made with Medicare. Medicare corrected that. I other dentist did a crown and it didn't go all the way up to my gums and is sensitive to especially cold things. I'm not having very good experiences with dentist by and large. Can't find an honest one or one that can actually do the job right. I feel being on Medicare your a target to bring in money. Not sure what to do next. Supposed to go back and have them redo the crown that didn't go to my gums, but it also was ttd place to didn't clean my teeth right and discolored some of them. Any suggestions on how to trust there is actually an capable and honest dentist out there who can perform properly?
Ans: Identifying a capable and honest dentist is crucial for your oral health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you find one:

1. Ask for referrals: Ask friends, family, or coworkers for recommendations. They can provide valuable insights into a dentist's work quality and bedside manner.

2. Check credentials: Ensure the dentist has the necessary qualifications, certifications, and licenses. You can verify this information with your state's dental board or professional organizations like the American Dental Association (ADA).

3. Check online reviews: Look up the dentist on review platforms. Pay attention to the overall rating and read the comments to understand the strengths and weaknesses. At the same time, do not rely on reviews alone as these can be manipulated, fake reviews can be easily generated.

4. Evaluate their communication style: A good dentist should listen to your concerns, explain procedures clearly, and answer questions patiently. Ensure you feel comfortable asking questions and discussing your treatment.

5. Assess their facility and equipment: A well-organized and modern dental office with up-to-date equipment is a good sign.

6. Check their approach to preventive care: A capable dentist emphasizes preventive care, including regular cleanings, exams, and education on oral hygiene.

7. Be wary of over-treatment: A honest dentist will not recommend unnecessary procedures. Be cautious if you feel pressured into extensive treatments.

8. Trust your instincts: If something feels off or you don't click with the dentist, it's okay to explore other options.

10. Schedule a consultation: Many dentists offer initial consultations or meet-and-greets. Use this opportunity to assess their approach, ask questions, and gauge your comfort level.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of finding a capable and honest dentist who prioritizes your oral health and well-being.

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Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |416 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Nov 14, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 03, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
Hi, I am 30 years old not married & now my parents are forcing me to get married. I think i am good looking guy. It's not like i have never been with girls. I have had brief flings with multiple girls. And there was one girl whom i was in a platonic relationship with with lot of emotional sharing & have spent a lot of time with her. The same goes with another girl. Both of them have told me that i have been pretty cool & girls would like me to be their bf or husband. But i am not able to accept anyone because of the guilt that of my past that i never had a relationship. Never been able to tell anyone that i had a gf. I know this is wrong to compare my life but i can't stop thinking that way. Can you tell me what to do? Like a contsant regret of not having a very steamy cool fancy relationship from outside. I know relationships have it's own ups & downs. But this guilt is killing me that i missed out lot of things in life & if get married in an arranged marriage i would feel myself to be a looser who couldn't even find a girl on his own. Though i know all of these comparisons are wrong & i should be rational. I am not able to help it. Please help me out
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Whatever you are feeling, it is very normal. More people than you could imagine go through this same phase. But as you mentioned, these are just thoughts; there is no truth to them. Not having a relationship does not make you uncool. It merely means that you did not meet your perfect match yet. I understand that you feel like you have missed out on something and that feeling is valid. It might not be reasonable, but it's very natural to think this way. I can suggest one thing- why don't you try a dating or matchmaking app to find your own partner? That way, you will be keeping your parents' wishes and won't let yourself down either. It will also give you more control over choosing your life partner.

Hope this helps.

...Read more

Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |416 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Nov 14, 2024

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Hi, I got married to my ex gf in an arranged setup. I had a 7 year of relationship with her before breakup. My career switch try from private to govt job was the reason. When I failed I returned back to corporate. 3 years after the breakup her father who is a good friend of my father sent proposal which led to our marriage. No one knew that we dated. We never had a word between the acceptance and marriage. None of us initiated the conversation. When she came after marriage her behavior towards me in private is totally strange. We never had an emotional conversation. Neither we discuss romance nor intimacy. In private we hardly have any intellect discussions which was an eternal part before our breakup. But when she is in public she behaves like she cares for me a lot. She is a darling of everyone in the house whether my parents or siblings. Most of the time she remains with my mother and she has good bond. In front of her she cares for me a lot. She had this double faced attitude from the first day. Our intimacy is limited to my ask she could agree or disagree but she never initiated it. She was pretty passionate before our breakup which I never saw after our marriage. I tried everything but nothing has happened she never opened up. She disconnected with almost all our mutual friends after marriage. Whenever I tried through some of her friends she says to them I overthink a lot. Marriages and relationships differs. All useless and weird reasons. Everyone blames my teenage short temper issue. Which I have completely overcame when I started working. After marriage we had a boy. She says no for a next child for which I am fine. But the problem is now my child is growing and she has started understanding her hypocrisy. Now she blames me for teaching him wrong things. We hardly had fights as she walks out or I won't say word usually after she didn't answer for anything. I am unable to see the light in this relationship. She had 3 relationships in between but I never had one which I never discussed. Now I hardly ask for anything. Day by day we are becoming only room partners or fake couples in public. Everyone sees her as an ideal daughter in law or wife due to her public hypocrisy. Please guide.
Ans: Dear Salman,
I understand that marital issues take a huge toll on people. Whatever you are feeling, it is very normal. I strongly suggest you seek professional help- you can either opt for personal counseling sessions to manage the distress caused by your partner's indifference, or the best approach is to convince your wife to go for marriage counseling with you. It would be good to get to the root of the matter; why is she behaving a certain way, where is this coming from, are there unresolved issues from when you dated? These questions will finally get an answer and you can work on them together. If she does not agree to go, tell her to do it for your child. No child should have to see their parents unhappy with each other.

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Dr Nagarajan J S K

Dr Nagarajan J S K   |163 Answers  |Ask -

Health Science and Pharmaceutical Careers Expert - Answered on Nov 14, 2024

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Career
I want to give NEET exam but my 12th in Maharashtra Board marks are less than 150 in PCB (general), so I am not eligible. can I give retest of 12th to get better marks so that I can give NEET.
Ans: Hi, Being a retest candidate is considered a second attempt in +2. I think the medical council will not allow admission to medicine. Instead, you can consider B.Pharm / Pharm D.

To join, the following are the requirements:

For pharm D: Minimum qualification for admission to. – a) Pharm.D. Part-I Course – A pass in any of the following examinations - (1) 10+2 examination with Physics and Chemistry as compulsory subjects along with one of the following subjects: Mathematics or Biology. (2) A pass in D.Pharm course from an institution approved by the Pharmacy Council of India under section 12 of the Pharmacy Act. (3) Any other qualification approved by the Pharmacy Council of India as equivalent to any of the above examinations. Provided that a student should complete the age of 17 years on or before 31st December of the year of admission to the course.

FOR B.PHARM:
Minimum qualification for admission to – A. First year B. Pharm – A pass in any of the following examinations - i. Candidate shall have passed 10+2 examination conducted by the respective state/central government authorities recognized as equivalent to 10+2 examination by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) with English as one of the subjects and Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/Biology as optional subjects individually. “However, the students possessing 10+2 qualification from non-formal and non-class rooms based schooling such as National Institute of Open Schooling, open school systems of States etc. shall not be eligible for admission to B.Pharm Course.” ii. Any other qualification approved by the Pharmacy Council of India as equivalent to any of the above examinations. Provided that a student should complete the age of 17 years on or before 31st December of the year of admission to the course. Provided that there shall be reservation of seats for the students belonging to the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and other Backward Classes in accordance with the instructions issued by the Central Government/State Government/Union Territory Administration as the case may be from time to time.

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DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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