Get copies of all medical tests, stays
Dear Heloise: It’s important to make sure you get copies of all medical tests, operations, hospital stays and the doctor’s findings to keep for your records.
I recently tried to get records from a prior surgery that required a month’s hospital stay. I was told they no longer existed and the doctor had died. They would have really helped with my current medical issues. I now get copies of everything and keep them marked and in a safe place. —
Alice C. in New Jersey
RESTAURANT COUPONS
Dear Heloise: With restaurant prices on the rise, I save money by keeping a zippered bag in my purse full of restaurant coupons. If my family and I decide to grab a bite for lunch while out shopping, I have them with me. No more regretting forgotten coupons or missing out on discounts. — Donna in Texas
Donna, that’s a great idea. We all need to save when we can. If you don’t carry a purse, you can leave a bag of coupons in your car’s glove box. — Heloise
TRAVEL WARNINGS
Dear Readers: The U.S. Department of State issues a safety warning system for travelers, so before visiting a foreign country, it’s important to check to see if there is a high travel warning in place. These warnings are issued on a four-point scale starting with the least dangerous.
■ Level 1: Exercise normal precautions. It’s generally safe for U.S. travelers, but there may be areas of crime or unrest.
■ Level 2: Exercise increased caution. May be susceptible to higher than normal safety risks, including disaster recovery, high crime rates or a threat of terrorism. You may not need to cancel your travel plans, but don’t ignore the warning issued.
■ Level 3: Reconsider travel. Traveling to areas under this warning should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. There may have been a natural disaster, an increased risk of kidnapping, terrorism or civil unrest.
■ Level 4: Do not travel. You are taking your life and safety into your own hands if you visit these regions. If there is an emergency, the U.S. government may not be able to provide assistance. — Heloise
DEBT RELIEF SCAMS
Dear Readers: There are a number of debt relief companies that are scamming people out of money and not delivering what they promise.
Here are some warning signs that a debt relief company may not be legitimate:
■ It asks for fees upfront before anything has been done for you.
■ It tells you to stop all communication with your creditors.
■ It guarantees to reduce your debt by a specified date.
■ It demands financial information before discussing your situation.
Do your homework before selecting a debt relief company. Check with your state’s attorney general and the Consumer Protection Office (usa.gov/ state-consumer) to see if there are complaints filed against the company you plan to use.