health insurance Archives - CLIPPING CHAINS

January 22, 2024January 21, 2024

QA12: Will A Life Of Financial Independence Meet Expectations?

We’re back to the digital mailbag to answer your questions!

For this week:

An update on markets and our personal finance situation
The role of dividends in growth and withdrawal assumptions
Expectations vs reality on a life of financial independence
Our experience with health insurance without employer-sponsored plans
Real estate investing: an update on our experiences and economics as remote landlords
Health insurance considerations for long-term travel
Short- to medium-term savings goals (like a house) versus saving for retirement
Loss of purpose without a traditional job
So much more!

August 22, 2022August 21, 2022

The Inflation Reduction Act: Exciting News for American Health Insurance

With the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, the obvious talk of the nation has been the sweeping and historic changes to US energy and the environment. And rightfully so. But today let’s discuss the good news for Americans exploring healthcare insurance coverage options outside of workplace-sponsored plans.

April 11, 2022April 10, 2022

EP 29: Back in the Weeds with the Frugal Professor

Today on episode 29 I want to welcome back to Clipping Chains writer, climber, father of five, and fellow personal finance geek, The Frugal Professor.

We cover it all on this one, from how the Frugal Professor was able to save nearly $2 million dollars with a family of seven, to how my wife and I are continuing to navigate a post-Financial Independence life.

November 29, 2021November 28, 2021

EP 15: Craig Faulhaber: Near-Death Experiences and Early Retirement

My guest this week is climber, math professor, and real-deal van lifer, Craig Faulhaber. On September 19, 2021 Craig was involved in a very serious climbing accident. This is the sort of accident that can end a life at worst, and dramatically alter its course at best. But, as you will hear in this conversation, Craig has an amazing sense of optimism in the face of very difficult life events.

To add to my shock at his accident, I was surprised to learn that Craig was on the cusp of retiring early just before his accident. Please enjoy this special conversation where we discuss the delicate nature of life, unconventional living, home ownership, relationships and marriage, and even the ethics of investing. Plus so much more!

August 30, 2021August 30, 2021

How to Have Negative Health Insurance Costs

One of the chief concerns for those considering leaving a job is the prospect of health insurance costs. I’ve met many climbers who choose to not insure, and many other concerned corporate employees who are convinced that insurance in the private marketplace will cost tens of thousands of dollars per year. As of this month, I’m pleased to announce that we are officially getting paid to have health insurance.

No joke! Let’s examine the wild and crazy ride of our health insurance budgeting. Strap in.

March 15, 2021March 18, 2021

Some Fantastic News on Health Insurance Costs

Back in October, after the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, I wondered if healthcare was about to get a lot more expensive. Now, health insurance is about to be far more affordable for those of us at lower income levels.

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is a $1.9 trillion stimulus package, signed into law on March 11, 2021. And this thing is massive! Tell them Large Marge sent ya! Mainstream media has expectedly latched on to the $1,400 stimulus checks and the very generous extended child tax credit. However, the news bulging my eyeballs is the boost coming to the Affordable Care Act (also lovingly known as Obamacare).

October 5, 2020October 4, 2020

Is Healthcare Insurance About to Get a Lot More Expensive?!

With the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the nation is thrust into an unexpected and incredibly time-sensitive debate on the future of the Supreme Court. The court is suddenly on a fast-track to a hard right turn, and hanging in the balance are pivotal social issues including abortion rights and healthcare programs. Relevant to us is the continued existence of the Affordable Care Act.

Other (understandably huge) social issues aside, changes in—or elimination of—the Affordable Care Act could mean colossal changes in the cost of healthcare insurance. What should we know and how can we prepare?