November/December 2024 | Page 17

they have created policies that offer tailored protection for law enforcement officers and their families . Here is what they bring to the table :
• Term Life Insurance : Aflac offers term life insurance with coverage up to age 120 . The plan provides $ 150,000 in coverage for the policyholder , $ 50,000 for a spouse , and $ 25,000 for children . This comprehensive family coverage helps ensure that even in the event of a sudden death , your family will have financial security .
• Short-Term Disability : One major gap in city-provided benefits is the lack of short-term disability coverage . Aflac bridges this gap by offering coverage that helps you stay financially afloat if you are temporarily unable to work due to injury or illness , which is becoming increasingly common in our workplace . This benefit is crucial , especially in a physically demanding and highrisk job like ours . It ’ s important to note that this benefit has increased to $ 3,000 a month with 60 % of your gross income guaranteed .
• 24 / 7 Accident Coverage : Accidents can happen anytime , anywhere , whether you are on or off duty . Aflac ’ s accident coverage provides 24 / 7 protection for both you and your covered family members , ensuring you are financially supported when accidents happen outside of the job .
• Critical Illness Insurance : Aflac offers critical illness insurance with coverage up to $ 30,000 . If you or a family member is diagnosed with a severe condition like cancer , stroke , or heart disease , this policy provides a lump sum payout to help cover medical expenses and maintain financial stability during treatment and recovery .
• Hospital Coverage : Hospital stays can quickly lead to hefty bills , even with health insurance . Aflac ’ s hospital coverage ensures you have the financial backing to cover hospital stays , allowing you to focus on recovery rather than the financial burden .
• Exclusive PLEA Rates : Aflac ’ s plans — including accident , critical illness , and life insurance — are available to union members at specially negotiated rates , making comprehensive coverage affordable . These policies are only available to members , and they provide robust protection at reduced costs .
• Guaranteed Issue Policies : Aflac policies are guaranteed issue when first offered , meaning there is no medical exam required to qualify . This is a significant advantage , especially for officers with pre-existing conditions , ensuring that you have access to vital coverage without additional hurdles .
MOTIVATING OFFICERS TO ACT
Despite these benefits , many officers delay securing life insurance , often if the coverage provided by the city is sufficient . However , the truth is that employer-provided policies may not offer enough coverage to fully protect your family . It is crucial to act now — before it is too late .
By securing life insurance , you are taking the initiative in protecting your family ’ s future . Just as we train for the worst-case scenarios on the job , we must prepare for the worst-case scenarios in life . Consider life insurance as part of your overall readiness plan — not only for yourself but for your family .
One of the key reasons officers put off purchasing life insurance is the misconception that it is too expensive . With the PLEA-specific rates offered by Aflac , this coverage is more affordable than you might think . Aflac has structured its policies to ensure you get the protection you need at a rate that makes sense for your budget .
Additionally , the guaranteed issue aspect of Aflac ’ s plans means there is no better time to sign up than when the policy is first offered . This ensures that officers , regardless of health conditions , can secure their future without facing potential delays or rejections .
LIFE INSURANCE : A LEGACY OF PROTECTION
Ultimately , securing life insurance is an investment in your family ’ s future . It is a responsibility we all share as police officers to ensure that our loved ones are taken care of , no matter what . The risks we face on the job are real , and while we cannot predict when tragedy might strike , we can plan for it .
In collaboration with Aflac , we encourage all officers to take advantage of the comprehensive coverage available to union members . By securing life insurance and supplemental coverage now , you are making a decision that offers long-term financial security for those who depend on you most .
Do not wait until it is too late . Reach out today to learn more about Aflac ’ s offerings and ensure that your family is protected — now and for the future . You can reach out to the office to get more information regarding these Aflac benefits . The open enrollment period is 10 / 21 / 24 – 12 / 13 / 24 .
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