ONLINE News Briefs

Insurance: Where would you go with a life insurance problem?

Most people don't realize that state governments regulate life insurance companies and can help in a dispute, says a survey by the American Council of Life Insurers. Only 11 percent say they'll turn to their state government with a life insurance complaint or dispute. The rest say they'd either call the company itself or hire a lawyer.

If you have a problem with your life insurance policy or agent, contact your state insurance department. For a directory of state insurance agencies, visit the ACLI's Web site at www.acli.com.

Retirement: Here's help in deciphering your investment package

The average 401(k) plan offers a bewildering assortment of 13 investment options, says a survey by the Profit Sharing/401k Council of America. If you're overwhelmed by your retirement plan, read through the "401(k) Survival Kit" put together by the Alliance for Investor Education. It discusses risk factors, fees, and retirement planning, and is available at at www.investoreducation.org.

Yvonne Wollenberg. ONLNE News Briefs.

Medical Economics

2002;15.