Astraea Wealth Management

It’s open enrollment season, so let’s talk about something that could cost you a lot if you’re not careful: balance billing 🤯

What is balance billing? 🫣

It happens when you receive care from an out-of-network provider in a non-emergency situation. That provider can bill you for the full amount they charge—not the discounted rate your insurance negotiated. You’re on the hook for the difference, which can be thousands of dollars.

How to protect yourself:

✅ Before any non-emergency procedure, ask if everyone involved (surgeons, anesthesiologists, radiologists, etc.) is in-network.

🚫 In an emergency, you don’t have to sign a consent form agreeing to out-of-network charges.

Good news:

The No Surprises Act helps protect you from surprise bills in emergency situations when you didn’t choose the provider. Learn more here: https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises

Want to nerd out on the details?

Here’s a great explainer: https://www.healthinsurance.org/glossary/balance-billing/

What is balance billing? | healthinsurance.org Balance billing occurs when providers bill a patient for the difference between the amount they charge and the amount that the patient's insurance approves. The negotiated rate that insurers pay providers is almost always less than the provider's "retail price." Depending on the circumstances, out-o...

Why invest in a low-cost diversified ETF instead of trying to pick the next big thing?

We all see a stock like NVIDIA blow up and get a major case of FOMO. 🫨 But for every NVIDIA, there’s a Blockbuster or an Enron that went to zero. People loved those companies… right up until they were worthless.

Think of a diversified ETF like an SSRI for your portfolio.😌

Seriously. It helps smooth out the manic highs and the gut-wrenching lows. It’s not as exciting as your friend obsessing over their latest hot stock pick, but it’s designed to help you avoid the epic crash that often follows.

This matters even more if you’re loaded up on your own company’s stock. It feels “safe” because you know it (hello, familiarity bias), but putting all your eggs in one basket is a massive gamble.

Time for a gut check. If you’re concentrated in one stock or sector (especially employer stock), you’re taking more risk than you think. Want an impartial read on exposure and balance? We’ll map it.

www.astraeawealth.com Laura Turo Corbiani

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You’re doing a lot.
Work, caregiving, relationships, bills, groceries, remembering birthdays… and oh right, your money life too. It’s no wonder it feels overwhelming sometimes.

I wrote this for West Michigan Woman because I’ve seen so many women blame themselves for not “having it all together” financially — when the truth is, the system was never really built for everything we’re carrying.

This isn’t a lecture. It’s an invitation.
✨ Here’s what to know about your money life. https://westmichiganwoman.com/financial/3797-you-re-doing-a-lot-here-s-what-to-know-about-your-money-life

Hear our thoughts about money and power!

Money, Power & The Stories We Tell Ourselves with Laura Corbiani - The Innovative Therapist Episode 141: Money, Power & The Stories We Tell Ourselves with Laura Corbiani Money. Power. Self-worth. For so many of us—especially women—these words feel loaded. We’ve absorbed messages about money from a young age, often without realizing it. Some of us were taught that talking about money ...

Feeling anxious about the economy's impact on your retirement? You're not alone! Our founder, Laura Corbiani, CFP® authored this article that explores how to create a flexible retirement plan that adapts to market changes. 👏

She shares practical strategies, from income mapping to adjusting spending habits. What retirement planning topics are top of mind for you right now? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Read the full article here: https://westmichiganwoman.com/financial/3704-uncertain-times-call-for-a-flexible-retirement-plan

I’ve seen how heart issues and cancer can drastically change lives. Health events impact all the parts of your life- physical and mental health, and your finances. Giving blood is a simple act that can support our communities. The needle doesn’t hurt that bad if you want to give too 🙂

And yes, I was elated to wear my rainbow sweater today. I’m grateful to have a planning practice that supports community in this way.

Ever feel like you're the only one with a mountain of envelopes to sort through? Guess what? It's totally normal!

One of the hidden perks of hiring a financial planner is the accountability (or delegation) of tackling these piles of paper. They can help you manage and organize everything efficiently.

(And yes, this is my pile that I still need to get to... 😅))

Money anxiety anyone? This blog has actionable steps to squashing your money fears, even when you're in a good financial shape (but you can't feel that way) https://www.astraeawealth.com/blog/financialfears

Here's the skinny, if you don't want to read the whole thing (but we'd love it if you did):

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel anxious. It’s just your life savings, right? 😅 But seriously, recognizing the importance of your money is the first step.

2. Identify Your Fears: What exactly are you afraid of? Losing your job? Market crash? Let’s get real introspective here. 🧐

3. Build a Safety Net: Even if you’re in a good financial position, having an emergency fund can provide peace of mind. 🛡️

4. Diversify Your Investments: Spread your investments across different asset classes to protect yourself from market fluctuations. 📈

5. Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power. The more you understand about personal finance, the better you’ll feel. 🧠

6. Practice Gratitude: Focus on what you have, rather than what you might lose. Gratitude can be a powerful tool for reducing anxiety. 🙏

7. Seek Professional Help: If your anxiety is overwhelming, consider talking to a financial advisor or therapist. They can provide guidance and support. 🗣️
Dive into the full post for more insights and tips on managing financial anxiety. And remember, while it’s impossible to eliminate all risk, you can take steps to mitigate it. Trust in your ability to handle whatever comes your way. 💼✨

🚨 Attention Business Owners: The Corporate Transparency Act deadline is approaching!

Are you ready for the new reporting requirements that took effect on January 1, 2024?

The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) introduces significant changes for millions of businesses across the United States.

Key Points:
• The CTA aims to combat money laundering and other financial crimes
• It requires most companies to report beneficial ownership information to FinCEN
• Existing businesses should file their initial reports as soon as possible

Don't risk non-compliance! Penalties can be severe, including fines up to $10,000 and potential imprisonment. The deadline for businesses formed prior to 1/1/2024 is to file the initial report before 1/1/2025. It’s 90 days from formation for businesses formed between 1/1/2024-12/31/2024.

At Astraea Wealth, we're here to help you navigate these new regulations. Our team of experts can guide you through the reporting process and ensure your business stays compliant.

Want to learn more? Check out our latest blog post for a comprehensive breakdown of the CTA and its implications for your business. (Link is in the comments.)

Corporate Transparency Act Astraea Wealth blog on Corporate Transparency Act for Business Owners

At Astraea Wealth, we believe cultivating an abundance mindset is essential for financial well-being, financial satisfaction and success.

Want to know why your relationship with money can stress you out? Want realistic tips on how to shift your mindset from scarcity to abundance? Then head over to the latest blog and get some knowledge on this topic, because you deserve it! Knowledge is power, so it's time to get powerful and start realizing how great you are with money!

By changing your perspective on money, you will unlock new opportunities and foster healthier financial habits. Think: practical strategies and a whole lot more prosperity.

Come on over, read, and thrive financially by embracing an abundance mindset!

Ready to ditch worries of lack and instead build more wealth? Click the link: www.astaeawealth.com/blog