Every year, numerous people enter the final stretch, unknowingly allowing highly valued dental benefits to slip away. The “Use-It-Lose-It” rule can leave you with unused benefits that reset annually, making them a missed opportunity. You could lose hundreds of dollars in dental coverage without understanding how this rule works.
Knowing how “Use-It-Lose-It” works can enable you to maximize your benefits before the end of the year. This blog explains intelligent ways to not let your benefits go to waste and to make the most out of your dental plan.
What is the “Use-It-Lose-It” Policy?
Another common characteristic of most dental insurance plans is the “Use-It-Lose-It” policy. It requires that any unused benefits in a given year will not carry over into the next.
If you don’t use your benefits before the end of the calendar year, you lose them. It is crucial to understand how this impacts your dental coverage and make the most of your benefits while they are available.
Key Dates to Remember
Your dental benefits usually expire on December 31st of each year. If you don’t have all your appointments by that time, you will forfeit those benefits.
Another important date is when your insurance plan renews: this may involve a change in your coverage limits or even the coverage itself. You might want to contact your insurance provider or set a reminder on your phone about these dates.
In this manner, you will remain organized to make sure that you use up your benefits.
Smart Ways to Maximize Your Benefits
Get That Cleaning: If you haven’t had your annual cleaning or exam, now is the time to schedule it.
Address unfinished treatment: Finish needed treatments, like fillings or crowns, before the year’s end.
Consider Preventive Treatments: Take advantage of preventive care, such as fluoride treatments or sealants, if included under your plan.
Upgrade Your Care: If you have already used the basic services, consider other treatments such as orthodontic consultations or cosmetic dentistry to make full use of your benefits.
Why Timing Matters
Timing is everything with “Use-It-Lose-It” benefits. It’s a way to ensure, before December 31st, that you use up your benefits and don’t lose them. This means that if you wait until next year for treatment, you will have to pay out-of-pocket for procedures that could have been fully covered.
Don’t let your benefits go unused. Planning helps to ward off future financial surprises while securing the full value of your insurance.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Benefits in the New Year
Before the start of the new year, review your insurance plan to see what has changed, if anything, in terms of coverage or deductible amounts. Understanding how your benefits will work next year can help you plan.
Booking appointments early in the new year may also ensure that you get the most out of your coverage without delay. Don’t wait until the last minute. Prepare now and avoid losing valuable care.
Maximizing your “Use-It-Lose-It” benefits before the end of the year is crucial in making full use of your dental insurance. Employ these smart money moves to make sure you aren’t leaving money on the table.
Schedule your dental appointments now and take advantage of those unused benefits. If you haven’t already, reach out to your insurance provider to confirm your remaining benefits. Take action today that could save you money and help you avoid future dental problems.
