Cozumel Mexican Institute of Social Security IMSS Health Care System, Social Security for US Expats and Dual-Citizens, Cozumel King’s Day Toy Drive, Cozumel Homeowner Discounts Schedule, Cozumel Medication Drive Reminder, and more!
Cozumel Mexican Institute of Social Security IMSS Health Care System
The IMSS Hospital and Clinic in Cozumel is located at 11th Avenue, crossing with 30th Avenue. The telephone number: (52-987) 872-0639. Most full time workers in Cozumel have medical coverage either through IMSS or ISSSTE paid for partially by their employer. If you work here, you can opt to be part of this medical system, or you may buy into Medical Insurance on your own. Medical Insurance is available to foreigners holding Immigration credentials. The cost is quite low, although it has risen annually.
My husband and I purchased this coverage and actively utilized the services of the Cozumel IMSS Clinic for at least three years.
They immediately provided preventive care and most of our prescription medications. The annual fee paid for itself within the first three months in medicine alone. My husband is diabetic, has high blood pressure, and has a heart condition.
Most of our medication can be prescribed by the General Practitioner that we were scheduled to see monthly prior to picking up our medications.
Some medications only a specialist can approve, but the specialist approves those medications for six months at a time. You only receive one month at a time, but his prescription is good for six months.
There are some medications that they just do not have. We purchased our own Lyrica and Carvedidol as well as our own blood testing supplies such as test strips and syringes.
Appointments with the specialists are time consuming and somewhat complex. The General Doctor writes a referral, then you must go to another desk to get the Director’s signature, then the referral has to be registered and stamped at yet another desk, then you go to yet a fourth party to make the actual appointment which is usually a month or more out.
There is a Laboratory right on the premises, first come first serve. You can see people lining up as early as five thirty in the morning. They are very well organized and staffed, the lines go fast.
A number of our friends from England, the United States, and Canada have used IMSS services for years and are satisfied. Mind you, it is nothing like the services you are used to back home, but for the money, it is a great investment.
The downside: They are always busy, it is all in Spanish, if you are not used to the system you should have an interpreter with you at first. The good news: They are remodeling and expanding the clinic and hospital to better serve the large number of clients. (See The Cozumel Sun News Article September 22nd, 2016).
There is a new procedure for applying and renewals!
I have been informed that everything is now handled on line. You must now apply and renew online at:
https://serviciosdigitales.imss.gob.mx/portal-ciudadano-web-externo/home
You will need your CURP card and an email address. Once you are in, click on the box that reads:
“Incorporación al seguro de salud para la familia
Solicitud de incorporación al seguro de salud para la familia”
This will take you through the process including a health questionnaire. I use Google Chrome that automatically translates from Spanish to English. I will add the step by step instructions as soon as I apply for 2017 coverage. Somewhere along the line you will probably have to submit the following: ORIGINAL Birth certificates & Copy ORIGINAL Marriage license & Copy CURP Card Proof of residence (Utility bill etc.) Copies of you Immigration documentation Copies of your passports Two infantile size pictures in color They require the birth certificates and marriage license be translated by an approved translator. Copy of your Social Security Number assigned to you at: www.imss.gob.mx OTHER FACTS:
The first six months there is no coverage. The second six months only minor things such as colds are covered. The second year everything is covered except broken bones and orthopedic.
The third year covers everything including medication as long as you get them from IMSS. You will not be reimbursed for drugs purchased at other pharmacies. The drug benefit is the only negative I have heard, as they are many times short of medications.
IMSS Family Insurance entitles you to IMSS hospital, surgical, medical care, and pharmaceutical supplies for you and other members of your family. Advance payment of annual fees is required and rates are determined by the age range of the person to be included in the insurance.
Annual costs Advance Fees 1 February 2016 to 31 January 2017 Age range Annual quota 0 to 19 years $ 2,250.00 20 to 29 years $ 2,700.00 30 to 39 years $ 2,850.00 40 to 49 years $ 4,000.00 50 to 59 years $ 4,250.00 60 to 69 years $ 6150.00 70 to 79 years $ 6,450.00 80 and more $ 6,500.00 The amount of annual contributions is updated in February each year.
Insurance can now be purchased individually or at least two people, i.e., the owner and immediate family such as: spouse, partner, daughters, mother, father or additional family such as: grandparents, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, etc. If you reside abroad, you can also purchase this insurance for your family in Mexico as head of the family.
Exceptions
They cannot ensure people who have: Pre-existing diseases, such as malignant tumors, chronic degenerative diseases, late complications of diabetes mellitus, diseases Hoarding (Gaucher disease), chronic liver disease, chronic renal failure, heart valve disease, heart failure, sequelae of ischemic heart disease (arrhythmia, angina or myocardial infarction), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with respiratory failure,chronic systemic connective tissue diseases, addictions like alcoholism and other substance abuse, mental disorders such as psychosis and dementia; Congenital and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome or Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) disease, among others.
The Mexican Social Security Institute will not make full or partial repayment of the payments made. It is very important that all information provided is accurate and complete, especially referring to pre-existing conditions.
Once you have acquired the Family Health Insurance, you can renew it 30 days before the due date.
Albatros Charters
Fishing – Diving- Cruising Cozumel
Call Toll Free from the U.S. or Canada: 888-333-4643
Local Telephone in Cozumel: 872-7904
Email: info@cozumel-fishing.com
http://albatroscharters.com/
Social Security for US Expats and Dual-Citizens
Social Security is a lifelong pension provided by the US government. It can be a critical source of income during one’s retirement years. Most important to note, it is a very attractive investment option for low to modest income earners – what one receives during retirement is far greater than what one contributes. Unfortunately, many US expats do not plan appropriately, and will miss out on this great opportunity.
To qualify for Social Security, one needs to earn 40 credits. In the United States, most people work a job and pay Social Security taxes (automatically taken out of the paycheck). After about ten years of employment, one has acquired the necessary 40 credits.
US expats, however, are often unable to contribute to Social Security. This becomes an issue when one has earned less than the necessary 40 credits. Fortunately, there are ways to contribute to Social Security while working abroad.
Let’s use an example to illustrate:
Jane is 30 years old. She has been living outside the US since she was 25, and does not have any plans to move back to the States. She works for a foreign company. Jane is interested in qualifying for Social Security, so she checks online at SSA.gov. Jane learns that she has earned 10 credits. She needs 30 additional credits.
If Jane earns a modest income from the foreign company, she may want to report her income as self-employment on her US tax return (certain requirements apply). Jane would not owe any income taxes on her tax return, if properly prepared. However, she would owe self-employment (SE) tax, which is how she would earn Social Security credits. SE tax is roughly 15% of the reported income.
Alternatively, Jane could start a small business (on the side). Any profits from that business could be reported as self-employment income. She would pay the 15% SE tax, and earn credits.
How quickly can one earn credits?
A person can earn a maximum of 4 credits per year. For 2016, one needs to report at least $5,040 in income to earn 4 credits ($1,260 per credit). Therefore, one would pay approximately $770 in SE tax to acquire the 4 credits.
To summarize: Social Security can be an important source of income during one’s retirement years. It is a very attractive investment option for low to modest income earners. One needs 40 credits to qualify for Social Security. Find out how many credits you have earned by visiting SSA.gov and creating an account. You will need to provide a US mailing address (usually the last one on record with the federal government).
For more information on Social Security and other tax-related issues, visit us at: holaexpat.com.
This article was written by John Ohe (IRS Enrolled Agent and CFA). John is a partner at Hola Expat (www.holaexpat.com), a firm that specializes in preparing tax returns for U.S. expats. If you would like to submit a question, email: info@holaexpat.com.
Disclaimer: The answers provided in this article are for general information, and should not be construed as personal tax advice. Tax laws and regulations change frequently, and their application can vary widely based on the specific facts and circumstances involved.
Rated one of the top beach snorkeling sites in Cozumel with natural sand walk-in beach, ocean view swimming pool, seaside restaurant with bar, umbrellas & palapas, showers & lockers, beach massage, snorkel equipment & kayak rental, wave runners and parasailing, poolside internet, on property tequila tour, and repel/rock climbing facility.
Beach Club Open Daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Reservations: 01 987 872 0100
Email buccanos@yahoo.com
http://buccanos.com/
Cozumel Medication Drive Has Started!
Donate medicines THAT ARE NOT PAST THE EXPIRATION DATE and in good condition to be distributed to the vulnerable population in Cozumel that cannot afford them. The donated drugs will be counted and kept in the Medical Dispensary located in the DIF Isla Cozumel, which will be distributed free of charge to the population.
WHEN: November 21ST – 25TH from 9:00 a.m. TO 2:00 p.m.
Participate by taking your medicines to the following collection centers:
WHERE: Mega Comercial Mexicana, Chedraui, Súper Aki, DIF Isla Cozumel, Cendi 1, Cendi 2 and Cendi 3.
Sergio’s Silver from Taxco is a fourth generation, family-owned and operated silver jewelry business that began in Taxco, a town in the state of Guerrero known worldwide as the “Silver Capital of Mexico”. You are guaranteed personal attention from the Hernandez family members, who have over forty years of experience in the business. “Our goal is to earn the trust and loyalty of our customer. We strive to provide outstanding customer service so your shopping experience will be enjoyable and you will look forward to visiting us again soon”
Mon- Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Ranked # 1 in Trip Advisors
Juárez Ave. #117 x 5th Ave.
Phone 01 987 872 7632
Email sergiosilver@live.com.mx
Website http://www.sergiosilver.com
Cozumel Homeowner Discount Schedule
There will be the usual discounts applied to property taxes and Garbage fees began this week in time for Cozumel’s Buen Fin Sale. Both are paid at the Municipal Palace, front entry.
Predial or Property Taxes
Pay between November 16 – November 30th and get a 20% discount
Pay between December 1st – December 31st and get a 15% discount
Pay between January 1st – February 28th and get a 10% discount
Pay your garbage fees between November 16th and February 28th and get a 10% discount.
Coming Next!
Thanksgiving Day U.S.A.
Dia de Gracias U.S.A.
November 24th, 2016
Ford Ironman Cozumel November 27th http://www.ironmancozumel.com/wordpress/index.php http://www.ironman.com/triathlon/events/americas/ironman/cozumel.aspx#axzz4IMS1JjzR
Aurita’s Cozumel Corner
Three Kings Day Toy Drive
3 King Day Gifts for Children: How You Can Help
It’s that time of the year for Susan Bonnett’s 3 King Day Celebrations and even though Susan went to Heaven in May of 2015, people who knew her still remember what she wanted most for the people of Cozumel. Help out the underprivileged and recognize the people who keep us safe in Cozumel. She always had a special place in her heart for the children who just needed an opportunity to succeed, the residents at Juan Pablo II, Cozumel’s nursing home, and, of course, the public servants of Cozumel.This year the group is scaling back from the mass gift giving and the goal is to target specific people who need that extra help. Gena Meyer is gathering the names of families in need and the ones selected will receive a Holiday basket filled with items to assist throughout the holidays. Families with overwhelming medical expenses or who, through no fault of their own, have found themselves in a position of need will be given priority. The number will be based on how many items she collects before the holiday.You can help by (1) submitting information about a family who you would like to be a recipient, (2) sponsoring a family or (3) by donating items for the baskets. Items that will help include: non-perishable food, new or gently used clothing, toys, tooth brushes and toothpaste, hand soap, laundry soap, towels, mittens, caps or anything you think a family would need and enjoy.Juan Pablo II, Cozumel’s nursing home, was another favorite of Susan’s. This group had a rough year because of staffing changes and vandalism, but their Board of Directors is back in place and they have three new wonderful nuns in the home. To help celebrate their efforts to get the home back on its feet, Santa is visiting the residents this year. They’ve provided the below “wish list” and anyone who would like to help fulfill their wishes will be helping them obtain their goal of 100% self-sufficiency.JP II Wish List includes: Twin Sheets & Pillow Cases (white), Floor Fans, Mattress Covers, 2 Chairs for Bathing, Bath Towels, Bedroom Curtains, CD Player, 2 Portable Microphones, Recliners, Refrigerator with Glass Doors, Bed Spreads. The nuns never ask for anything for themselves, but Santa plans on taking them and the residents individual gifts. Brushes, combs, lap blankets, perfume samples, hotel soaps & shampoos will help or – as Susan would say – just have fun shopping for people who will appreciate whatever you give them.Other groups Santa plans on visiting this year include Cozumel’s CAM (Centro de Atencion Multiple) School and CAM Laboral. These schools are special facilities dedicated to providing education and related services for children will disabilities. CAM Laboral is for young adults and they can use any cooking ingredients for their cooking classroom or any type of school supplies are always appreciated.If you’re traveling to Cozumel in the next few weeks or shopping in Cozumel and see something you think one of these groups would like, please help us make these wonderful people’s day. As always, 100% of your donation will go directly to the group you designate. If you have and questions or would like additional information, please feel free to contact Gena Meyer at caribdivergena@gmail.com or Kathy McGinn at woofem@me.com. Donations can also be dropped off with Jan at the No Name Sports Bar.Thank you everyone for your generosity these past years and for your continued support this year.
Reminders: The Medicine Drive is a wonderful opportunity if you like my family have medications that you no longer need. This is so much easier than asking around the neighborhood if anyone can use a certain medication. Please check your medicine cabinets and drop off any medication that is still usable at one of the designated locations.
The Cozumel Sun’s Christmas Baskets will be paid for by our On-Going Garage Sale. We can use:
USED POTS AND PANS AND KITCHEN UTENSILS! Please do not throw your out pots and pans when you replace them. The local people are not looking for them to look like new, if they still work, they need them. Some cook over an open fire.
FURNITURE. Tables, chairs, stools, outdoor and indoor. They are willing to repair and fix minor flaws.
CLOTHING is divided into free, 5, 10, 15, and 20 pesos. What we do not sell in the next few weeks will be donated to Finca families, then we will start all over again in January. We provide clothing to anyone in need year around, free of charge.
We have cleaned out our family closets, toy boxes, game shelves, tool room, and kitchen cabinets twice. If you can donate items, do so quickly so we can include it in our last sale before Christmas.
Health Insurance: This week I concentrated on IMSS Medical Insurance. To see other medical Insurance options available in Cozumel, read “Health Insurance” under the Business Directory Section of The Cozumel Sun.
Buccanos at Night is opening this week! Yeah!!! My all time favorite place to dine evenings with out of town company and on a romantic evening with my Charlie. Make your reservations, they are only open Friday and Saturday nights!
Friday and Saturday night from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Reservations: 01 987 872 0100 Email buccanos@yahoo.com Hotel zone north of Cozumel
Have a wonderful Week, and Happy Thanksgiving USA!
Blue Angel Resort
www.blueangelresort.com
info@blueangelresort.com
+52 9878720819
Carretera Costera Sur Km. 2.2
Cozumel, Quintana Roo, México 77600
Hotel@bluangelresort.com
The Local Team Bartolo Martinez Martinez, wife Gelmy, with Children Julian and Gigi
Papelería Mama Lilly
Support a Neighborhood Business!
Telephone: 987-876=1199
EMAIL: mapapeleria@outlook.com
Hours:
06:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Monday through Friday
08:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Saturday
08:00 a.m. – 09:30 a.m. Sunday
11:00 a.m. – 09:00 p.m. Sunday
https://www.facebook.com/papeleriamamalilly/
35 Avenida Sur Entre Calles 17 y 15 Bis
Colonia Independencia (Near Bicentennial Sports Center)
We sell school and office supplies, make copies, print, laminate, and sell some gifts and novelty items. Use of Computer, Calls to Mexico, U.S, and Canada. We are licensed, provide Facturas, and deliver to your home, business, or office.
AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE!
http://www.liquidmotionacademy.com/
https://www.facebook.com/LiquidMotionAcademy
info@liquidmotionacademy.com
(+52) 987 878 9690
Liquid Motion Academy is a high-end photography, film and media Institute specializing in underwater
imaging with over 30 years’ accreditation awards and acclaim.
Specials for local Residents are available.
