Frequently Asked Questions

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We offer a wide range of insurance products, including:

• Family and Individual Health Insurance, (On and Off the Market Place)
• Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C)
• Medicare Supplemental
• Life Insurance
• Final Expense
• Annuities

Supplemental Coverage: 

• Dental
• Vision
• Accident
• Hospitalization
• Cancer
• Long-Term Care
• Other Specialty Products 

Our goal is to protect what matters most to you, giving you peace of mind and financial security for you and your loved ones.

When it comes to health insurance, there are several types of plans available to individuals. These plans offer different levels of coverage and cater to various needs and preferences. Understanding the options can help you make informed decisions about the type of health insurance plan that is most suitable for you. Here are some common types of health insurance plans:

• Health Maintenance Organization (HMO): An HMO plan typically requires you to choose a primary care physician (PCP) who will coordinate all your healthcare needs. In most cases, you will need a referral from your PCP to see a specialist. HMO plans usually have a network of healthcare providers, and you may have to pay a copayment for each visit or service.
• Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): PPO plans offer more flexibility compared to HMOs. You have the freedom to visit any healthcare provider within the PPO network without requiring a referral. However, if you choose to see a provider outside the network, your out-of-pocket expenses may be higher. PPO plans typically have higher premiums but provide greater choice and flexibility.
• Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO): EPO plans are similar to PPO plans in terms of flexibility, but they do not cover services obtained outside the network. You are required to see healthcare providers within the designated network, except in cases of emergencies. EPO plans generally have lower premiums compared to PPO plans.
• Point of Service (POS): POS plans combine features of both HMO and PPO plans. Like an HMO, you are required to choose a primary care physician who will manage your healthcare. However, you have the option to see out-of-network specialists without a referral, although it will result in higher out-of-pocket costs. POS plans offer a balance between cost savings and flexibility.
• High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP): HDHPs are designed to have lower monthly premiums but higher deductibles. These plans are often coupled with a health savings account (HSA), which allows you to save money for medical expenses on a tax-advantaged basis. HDHPs are suitable for individuals who are generally healthy and don't require frequent medical care.
• Catastrophic Health Insurance: Catastrophic plans are intended to protect you from major medical expenses in the event of a serious illness or injury. These plans have low premiums but high deductibles. Catastrophic plans are typically available to individuals under 30 years old or individuals who qualify for a hardship exemption.
• Medicare and Medicaid: These are government-funded health insurance programs. Medicare is primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, and it also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities. Medicaid provides health coverage for low-income individuals and families.

It is essential to carefully consider your healthcare needs, budget, and personal circumstances when selecting a health insurance plan. Comparing the features, costs, and coverage of different plans can help you find the most suitable option for your specific needs and preferences.

 While the absence of employer-provided health insurance can present challenges, there are alternative paths to obtain coverage. By exploring the Health Insurance Marketplace, considering Medicaid or CHIP, investigating COBRA continuation coverage, exploring spousal or domestic partner coverage, researching professional or trade associations, and looking into short-term health insurance plans, individuals can find a suitable health insurance solution that meets their needs and protects their financial well-being. It is crucial to thoroughly evaluate each option's costs, coverage, and eligibility criteria before making a decision. We understand that it can be difficult to make the right choice. That's why we are here to answer any questions you might have and help you find the best plan for your needs. Please don't hesitate to contact us. 

If your health insurance company is leaving your market, there are several steps you can take to ensure you have options and continue to receive healthcare coverage. First, review the notification from your insurance company to understand the timeline and any alternative options they may be offering. Contact your insurance company's customer service for more information and guidance. Explore alternative health insurance plans from other providers and compare coverage options, costs, and network of healthcare providers. Consider COBRA continuation coverage if you anticipate a coverage gap, but keep in mind it can be costly. Check for special enrollment periods that may allow you to enroll in a new plan outside of the usual open enrollment period. Seek assistance from a healthcare navigator or broker if needed. Consider alternative healthcare coverage options such as short-term plans, health sharing ministries, or Medicaid. Stay informed about deadlines and act promptly to avoid any coverage gaps. Add an answer to this item.

If your employer's insurance is affordable and comprehensive, you are not eligible for government subsidies to help buy a policy in the exchanges. You can still buy a plan in the exchange, but you would have to pay full price for it, so it is unlikely to be better or less expensive than your employer's coverage. Additionally, your employer's plan likely allows you to pay your share of the premiums on a pre-tax basis, which is less likely with an individual-market plan. While you can choose to decline your employer's insurance and buy an individual-market plan, you will not be eligible for a subsidy in the exchange, and you will lose the benefit of your employer partially funding the plan. 

In 2022, an employer's health insurance policy is considered affordable if individual coverage (for just the employee) costs less than 9.61% of their household income. This affordability test only applies to the employee's coverage, not the cost to add family members. If the employee's coverage meets the affordability threshold, they are not eligible for a premium subsidy in the exchange, and neither are their family members, even if it would be costly to enroll them in the employer's plan. This is known as the "family glitch" and remains an issue for many Americans, despite proposed fixes. The employer's coverage is also considered to provide "minimum value" if it covers at least 60% of benefits and provides substantial coverage for inpatient and physician care. Most large companies' insurance meets these definitions and already provided comprehensive coverage prior to the ACA. 

There are specific enrollment periods during which you can change your health insurance carrier. These periods may vary depending on your circumstances, such as if you have experienced a qualifying life event (such as getting married, having a baby, or losing your job). Outside of these periods, you may not be able to switch carriers unless you qualify for a special enrollment period. Please don't hesitate to contact us. 

The Affordable Care Act aimed to remove barriers to insurance coverage for uninsured Americans with pre-existing conditions or cost-related issues. The American Rescue Plan has increased and expanded premium subsidies, making them available to more consumers. This means that health insurance plans sold through state exchanges cannot deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions, exclude pre-existing conditions from coverage, or charge higher premiums based on medical history. These regulations apply to all individual major medical health insurance, regardless of whether they are purchased through the exchange or off-exchange. 

Yes, health insurance typically covers mental health services to some extent. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), mental health and substance use disorder services are considered essential health benefits that must be covered by insurance plans. This means that health insurance is required to provide coverage for mental health treatments, including therapy, counseling, and medication management. 

There are several options to help with the cost of expensive medications. These include checking health insurance coverage, exploring prescription assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies, using prescription discount cards, seeking assistance from patient advocacy organizations, looking into state and federal programs, and discussing the situation with a healthcare provider who can provide guidance and referrals. Navigating these options may require some research and assistance, but they can help reduce the financial burden of expensive medications. 

A life insurance policy can serve a number of functions, including income replacement, mortgage protection, estate planning, leaving a legacy, and burial expenses. If someone you love depends on you financially, you need life insurance. 

There are several types of life insurance available to individuals. Here are some common types:

1. Term Life Insurance: Term life insurance provides coverage for a specific period, such as 10, 20, or 30 years. It offers a death benefit to the beneficiaries if the insured person passes away during the term. Term life insurance is typically more affordable than other types of life insurance, but it does not accumulate cash value.
2. Whole Life Insurance: Whole life insurance provides coverage for the entire lifetime of the insured person. It includes a death benefit as well as a cash value component that grows over time. Whole life insurance premiums are typically higher than term life insurance premiums, but the policy can be used as an investment and may offer potential tax benefits.
3. Universal Life Insurance: Universal life insurance is a flexible type of permanent life insurance that allows the policyholder to adjust the death benefit and premium payments. It also includes a cash value component that earns interest over time. Universal life insurance offers more flexibility than whole life insurance but requires careful management of premium payments.
4. Variable Life Insurance: Variable life insurance combines a death benefit with an investment component. Policyholders have the option to invest the cash value portion of their policy into different investment options, such as stocks and bonds. The cash value and death benefit can fluctuate based on the performance of the investments.
5. Indexed Universal Life Insurance: Indexed universal life insurance is a type of universal life insurance that allows policyholders to earn interest based on the performance of a stock market index, such as the S&P 500. The policyholder can allocate the cash value to either fixed interest or indexed interest accounts.
6. Final Expense Insurance: Final expense insurance, also known as burial insurance, is a type of life insurance designed to cover funeral and end-of-life expenses. It typically offers a smaller death benefit compared to other types of life insurance and is often easier to qualify for.
7. Key Person Life Insurance: Key Person Life Insurance is a type of life insurance policy taken out on a key member of a company, such as an owner or a key employee. This insurance policy pays out to the company if the covered person passes away. This gives the company the financial resources to replace the person or make up for their absence.
8.  Mortgage Life Insurance: Also known as mortgage protection insurance, is a type of insurance policy that is designed to protect homeowners and their families in the event of the homeowner's death. This insurance policy is specifically tailored to cover the outstanding balance of the mortgage on the property, ensuring that the family is not burdened with the financial responsibility of paying off the mortgage.  There are two main types of mortgage life insurance: decreasing term insurance and level term insurance. 

• Decreasing Term Insurance: the most common type of mortgage life insurance. It is designed to align with the decreasing balance of the mortgage over time. As the outstanding balance of the mortgage decreases, so does the coverage amount of the insurance policy. This type of policy ensures that the insurance coverage matches the remaining balance of the mortgage, providing adequate protection for the family. 
• Level Term Insurance: on the other hand, provides a fixed coverage amount throughout the term of the policy. This means that the coverage amount does not decrease as the mortgage balance decreases. This type of policy is often chosen by homeowners who want to ensure that their family will have additional funds to cover other expenses, such as childcare or education costs, in addition to paying off the mortgage.

It's important to carefully consider your financial needs and goals when choosing a life insurance policy. Consulting with a licensed insurance professional can help you understand the different options available and determine which type of life insurance is most suitable for your circumstances.

Life insurance riders are additional provisions or add-ons that can be attached to a life insurance policy. They offer additional benefits or customization options to policyholders. Some common types of life insurance riders include:

1. Accelerated Death Benefit Rider: This rider allows the policyholder to receive a portion of the death benefit if they are diagnosed with a terminal illness or have a specified medical condition. The accelerated benefit can help cover medical expenses or other financial needs during the policyholder's lifetime.
2. Waiver of Premium Rider: With this rider, if the policyholder becomes disabled and is unable to work, the insurance company waives the premium payments required to maintain the life insurance policy. This ensures that coverage remains in force during the disability period.
3. Guaranteed Insurability Rider: This rider allows the policyholder to purchase additional life insurance coverage at specific intervals in the future without having to provide further evidence of insurability. It enables the policyholder to increase their coverage as their needs change, such as after getting married, having children, or buying a house.
4. Accidental Death Benefit Rider: This rider provides an additional death benefit if the insured person dies due to an accident. It usually pays out a multiple of the policy's face value and can provide additional financial protection to beneficiaries in case of accidental death.
5. Child Term Rider: This rider provides coverage for the policyholder's children, typically until they reach a certain age. It can offer financial protection in the event of a child's death and typically allows for conversion to an individual policy when the child becomes an adult.
6. Long-Term Care Rider: This rider allows the policyholder to access a portion of the death benefit to pay for long-term care expenses if they become chronically ill or require long-term care services. It provides financial support for healthcare needs while still offering a death benefit to beneficiaries.
7. Disability Income Rider: This rider provides income replacement if the policyholder becomes disabled and is unable to work due to injury or illness. This rider is designed to help replace the policyholder's lost income during the disabling period.

Riders can add flexibility and additional benefits to a life insurance policy, but they often come at an additional cost. It's important to carefully review and consider the terms and costs associated with each rider before adding them to a life insurance policy.

Term life insurance or a combination of term and permanent insurance may help you pay a lower premium. You can also reduce your premiums by purchasing a policy early in life.

A person's premium will increase as he or she grows older, and it is more likely that he or she will develop a health condition that will increase the premium even further or disqualify him or her from receiving insurance coverage. 

Insurance companies determine your life insurance premium based on various factors that help assess the risk they take by insuring you. Here are some common factors that insurers consider when calculating life insurance premiums:

1. Age: Age is a significant factor in determining life insurance premiums. Generally, the younger you are when you purchase a policy, the lower your premiums are likely to be.
2. Gender: Statistically, women tend to live longer than men, which can result in lower life insurance premiums for females. However, the impact of gender on premiums can vary between insurance companies.
3. Health and Medical History: Insurance companies typically assess your current health status and medical history to gauge the risk of insuring you. They may require you to undergo a medical examination or request access to your medical records. Factors such as pre-existing conditions, chronic illnesses, and family medical history can influence your premium.
4. Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle factors can impact your life insurance premium. These may include hobbies such as extreme sports or occupations with high-risk factors. Engaging in risky behaviors like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption can also result in higher premiums.
5. Coverage Amount and Type: The coverage amount and type of life insurance policy you choose will affect your premium. Policies with higher coverage amounts or additional features, such as riders or accelerated death benefits, will generally result in higher premiums.
6. Term Length: For term life insurance, the duration of the policy term can impact the premium. Longer-term policies typically have higher premiums compared to shorter-term policies.
7. Insurance Rating Class: Insurance companies use rating classes to categorize individuals based on their risk profile. Based on factors like health, lifestyle, and medical history, you may be assigned to a specific rating class, such as preferred plus, preferred, standard plus, or standard. The higher the rating class, the lower the premium is likely to be.

It's worthwhile to note that each insurance company may have different rating classes and that a policyholder's rating class may vary between different insurance companies. 

Once you have purchased a life insurance policy, it is important to assess whether any changes need to be made to your coverage. Life circumstances can change over time, and it is essential to ensure that your policy adequately addresses your current needs. Here are a few factors to consider when determining if adjustments to your life insurance coverage are necessary:

1. Life Events: Significant life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the purchase of a new home can impact your insurance needs. These events may require you to increase or decrease your coverage to adequately protect your loved ones or assets.
2. Financial Situation: If your financial situation has improved, you may want to consider increasing your life insurance coverage to provide additional financial protection for your beneficiaries. Conversely, if your financial situation has changed, you may need to reassess your coverage to ensure it remains affordable and aligned with your budget.
3. Changes in Health: If you have experienced a significant change in your health, such as a new diagnosis or the development of a chronic condition, it may be necessary to review your coverage. Depending on the severity of the health condition, you may need to consider adjusting your policy to ensure it adequately covers potential medical expenses or provides financial support for your loved ones.
4. Estate Planning: If you have made changes to your estate plan, such as establishing a trust or adjusting beneficiaries, it is essential to review your life insurance coverage. Ensuring that your policy aligns with your estate planning goals can help provide a smooth transition of assets and financial support for your beneficiaries.
5. Coverage Term: If your life insurance policy has a term, it is crucial to review it regularly. As the term expiration approaches, you may need to consider renewing the policy, converting it to a permanent policy, or purchasing a new policy altogether.

Ultimately, the need to make changes to your life insurance coverage will depend on your unique circumstances. Regularly reviewing your policy and consulting with a knowledgeable insurance professional can help ensure that your coverage adequately addresses your current needs and provides the necessary financial protection for your loved ones.

Determining the appropriate amount of life insurance coverage is a crucial step in financial planning. Start by assessing your financial obligations and responsibilities, including outstanding debts and future financial needs. Consider your family's ongoing living expenses and how long you want to provide financial support. Calculate your income replacement needs by multiplying your annual income by the desired duration of support. Subtract any existing coverage from your total insurance needs. Consider any specific needs or goals you have, such as dependents with special needs or business obligations. Use online calculators or seek guidance from a financial advisor or insurance professional. Regularly review your coverage to ensure it aligns with your current and future objectives. Make sure to factor in inflation when assessing your coverage. Make sure to also update beneficiaries on your policies when you make changes to your life. 

The answer to this question depends on various factors, including the severity of the health condition, the type of life insurance policy being considered, and the insurance company's underwriting guidelines.

In general, having a serious health condition can make it more challenging to obtain life insurance coverage. Insurance companies assess the risk associated with insuring an individual based on their health status. If a person has a serious health condition, the insurance company may consider them to be a higher risk, which could result in higher premiums or even a denial of coverage.

However, it is important to note that not all health conditions automatically disqualify an individual from obtaining life insurance coverage. Each insurance company has its own underwriting guidelines, and some may be more lenient than others when it comes to certain health conditions.

In some cases, individuals with serious health conditions may still be able to obtain life insurance coverage by opting for a guaranteed issue policy or a simplified issue policy. These types of policies typically do not require a medical exam and have more relaxed underwriting requirements. While having a serious health condition can impact your eligibility for life insurance coverage, it does not automatically disqualify you. 

 One important aspect to think about is the financial impact that the loss of a child would have on your family. While it is a difficult subject to even consider, the reality is that unexpected tragedies can occur. In the event of the untimely death of a child, life insurance can provide financial support to cover funeral expenses, medical bills, and other associated costs.  

Over the course of time, life insurance policies may accumulate cash value. Depending on the policy, you may be able to build up a savings component, allowing your child to access the fund in the future. The proceeds can be used for a variety of purposes, such as funding an educational program, purchasing a home, or establishing a business. In addition to allowing a child to save money, a child's policy may allow him or her to purchase more coverage in the future without proving their insurability. An example would be a parent purchasing life insurance for their child at an early age when the premiums are lower and increasing the coverage amount later on in the child's life as the child grows older. 

The choice between the two depends on individual circumstances and goals, considering factors like age, health, financial situation, and long-term objectives. Both types have their own benefits and considerations, and understanding these can help make an informed decision that provides necessary financial protection. 

Term life insurance provides coverage for a specified period of time, typically ranging from 10 to 30 years. It offers a death benefit to your beneficiaries if you pass away during the policy term. Term life insurance is generally more affordable than permanent life insurance, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking coverage for a specific period, such as when they have young children or a mortgage to protect. 

Permanent life insurance, on the other hand, provides coverage for your entire lifetime. It includes a death benefit as well as a cash value component that grows over time. Unlike term life insurance, permanent life insurance does not expire as long as you continue to pay the premiums. This type of policy can serve as a financial tool, offering the potential for tax-deferred growth and the ability to access the cash value during your lifetime. 

An annuity is a financial product that is designed to accept and grow funds from an individual and then, upon annuitization, pay out a stream of payments to the individual at a later point in time. Annuities are primarily used as a means of securing a steady cash flow for an individual during their retirement years. They are often contracted through an insurance company, which promises to pay an individual a certain amount of money for a specified period of time, or for the rest of the individual's life. Annuities come in three main types: fixed, variable, and indexed. Each type has its own level of risk and payout potential. 

Annuities work by providing a stream of income in return for an initial investment. Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. Initial Investment: An individual makes an initial investment in the annuity, either as a lump sum or through a series of payments. This is often done through an insurance company.
2. Accumulation Phase: The money invested in the annuity grows tax-deferred during what's known as the accumulation phase. The growth is based on the type of annuity purchased - it could be a fixed rate set by the insurance company, a variable rate based on the performance of a portfolio of investments, or a hybrid of the two.
3. Annuitization Phase: At a certain point, typically after retirement, the annuitization phase begins. This is when the annuity starts making regular payments to the individual. The amount and frequency of these payments are determined by a variety of factors, including the amount of money invested, the length of the payout period, and the individual's life expectancy.
4. Death Benefit: Some annuities also include a death benefit. If the individual who purchased the annuity dies before they start receiving payments, the insurance company will pay a specified amount to the individual's beneficiaries.

Annuities can be a useful tool for retirement planning, as they provide a guaranteed income stream. However, they can also be complex and may come with fees and penalties for early withdrawal, so it's important to fully understand the terms before investing in an annuity.

There are several types of annuities available, each with its own set of features and benefits. Here are the main types:

1. Fixed Annuities: These provide a guaranteed interest rate for a certain period. The insurance company assumes the risk of the underlying investments.
2. Variable Annuities: These allow the owner to invest in a variety of sub-accounts (similar to mutual funds). The return on investment and the amount of periodic payments you receive may be higher or lower depending on the performance of your investment options.
3. Indexed Annuities: These are a type of fixed annuity, but the interest rate is tied to a market index, such as the S&P 500. They provide a minimum guaranteed interest rate combined with an interest rate linked to a market index.
4. Immediate Annuities: These start paying out income right away after you make your initial investment. They can be fixed, variable, or indexed.
5. Deferred Annuities: These accumulate money for a period of time before starting to pay out income. They can also be fixed, variable, or indexed.
6. Lifetime Annuities: These guarantee income for the rest of your life, no matter how long you live.
7. Fixed Period Annuities: These guarantee income for a certain period of time, such as 10 or 20 years.

Each type of annuity has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on your individual financial goals, risk tolerance, and income needs.

An annuity is a financial product that provides a steady stream of income over a specified period of time, typically during retirement. Deciding when to buy an annuity requires careful consideration of individual financial circumstances and goals. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, here are some factors to consider when determining the optimal time to purchase an annuity:

1. Retirement Age: Annuities are commonly used as a source of income during retirement. Therefore, the age at which you plan to retire is an important factor to consider. The closer you are to retirement, the more sense it makes to purchase an annuity to secure a guaranteed income stream.
2. Financial Stability: Assessing your current financial situation is essential before buying an annuity. If you have a solid financial foundation with sufficient savings and investments, it may be a good time to consider purchasing an annuity to supplement your retirement income. On the other hand, if you have outstanding debts or lack a substantial emergency fund, it may be wise to prioritize those financial obligations before committing to an annuity.
3. Market Conditions: Annuity rates can be influenced by market conditions, such as interest rates. When interest rates are low, annuity rates tend to be less favorable. It may be beneficial to wait for a period of higher interest rates to maximize the income generated from an annuity.
4. Life Expectancy: Life expectancy plays a significant role in determining when to purchase an annuity. If you anticipate living a long life, purchasing an annuity earlier may provide a longer period of income. Conversely, if you have a shorter life expectancy or existing health issues, it may be more advantageous to delay purchasing an annuity.
5. Flexibility and Access to Funds: Annuities generally come with specific terms and conditions, including penalties for early withdrawal. If you foresee a need for flexibility and access to your funds in the near future, it may be better to postpone buying an annuity until you are in a more stable financial position.
6. Other Retirement Income Sources: Consider the other sources of income you expect to have during retirement, such as Social Security benefits, pensions, or investment income. Evaluating these income streams can help determine how much additional income is needed from an annuity.

Ultimately, the decision of when to buy an annuity should align with your individual financial objectives and circumstances. Making the decision to buy an annuity is like planting a seed. The more effort you put into properly evaluating your income sources and financial objectives, the stronger and more vibrant the return will be when it blooms.

Annuities are financial products that are commonly used for retirement planning and income generation. Understanding how annuities are taxed is crucial for individuals considering purchasing an annuity or currently receiving annuity payments.

The tax treatment of annuities depends on several factors, including the type of annuity, the funding source, and the timing of withdrawals or payments. Here are the key points to consider:

Taxation During the Accumulation Phase 

•  Annuities are typically funded with pre-tax dollars, meaning that contributions are made with money that has not yet been taxed.
• As the annuity grows in value over time, the earnings on the investment are tax-deferred. This means that you do not have to pay taxes on the investment gains until you start making withdrawals.

Taxation During the Distribution Phase

• When you start receiving annuity payments, the taxation will depend on whether the annuity is qualified or non-qualified.
• Qualified annuities are purchased using funds from a tax-advantaged retirement account, such as an IRA or a 401(k). In this case, the annuity payments are treated as ordinary income and are subject to your regular income tax rate.
• Non-qualified annuities are purchased with after-tax money. The taxation of non-qualified annuities is a bit more complex and depends on the specific terms of the annuity contract.
• If you receive payments as a return of your principal investment, these payments are considered tax-free.
• Any earnings or gains on your investment are taxable as ordinary income when they are distributed. The amount of taxable income is calculated based on the exclusion ratio, which determines the portion of each payment that is taxable.

Early Withdrawals and Surrender Charges

• Withdrawing funds from an annuity before reaching the age of 59½ may result in an early withdrawal penalty of 10% imposed by the IRS.
• Additionally, surrender charges may apply if you terminate the annuity contract early. These charges are typically a percentage of the account value and decrease over time.

Inherited Annuities

• If you inherit an annuity, the tax implications will depend on your relationship to the original annuity owner.
• Spouses who inherit an annuity have the option to treat it as their own, continuing with the existing tax treatment or transferring it into their name.
• Non-spouse beneficiaries have different options and may need to consult a tax professional to determine the best course of action.

It is important to note that tax laws are subject to change, and the information provided here is based on the current tax regulations in the United States. To ensure accurate and up-to-date information, it is always recommended to consult with a tax advisor or financial professional.