The worst career choice I ever made was walking away from a six figure salary software development job with benefits to focus on the small startup I co-founded just a few years earlier. My wife and I had two small children at the time and my wife was also nearly 8 months pregnant with our third. It resulted in an approximate 70% reduction in income, prematurely cashed out 401k and loss of existing health insurance.

To be fair, it was also simultaneously the best career choice I ever made. Three years later I make more now than I originally walked away from. The raw roads of stress, anger, fear and complete uncertainty have aged both me and my wife at an accelerated rate but we have grown closer to each other than we would otherwise be. We have relied on each other, and she has been unbelievably supportive with all the late nights and required traveling. We discovered what we are capable of. In one day it will be October. In one day it will be the month that we finally pay off our last batch of credit card debt that resulted from that career choice.

I cannot recommend following in our footsteps as from where I’m sitting there are much better, more calculated ways of going about it. Logically, what we did was beyond stupid. Luckily for us, we were still young enough to not grasp the full magnitude of stupidity and we also refused to fail. It’s also crucial to have stellar business partners who are just as crazy and just as determined. We have all labored tremendously and we have each played critical roles in our success. The hard times of fear and uncertainty aren’t over. I don’t think they will ever be, to be honest. But, it sure has been one hell of a ride. I wouldn’t change a thing.

Friend: Why don't you just quit your job?
Me: I want to, I just can't right now, it would cause too many issues.
Friend: oh really? Will it affect your health insurance or pension?
Me: No my office is the shipping address for my new iPhone. Haven't got it yet.
Friend: Oh ffs .... seriously?

Got paid Friday. I have just enough to pay rent, car payment and health insurance.

Bosses : check out my new car.

You're welcome.

I have seen it. They say it doesn't exist; just a story we tell our children so that their innocence does not lead them down into a nightmarish adulthood from which there is no salvation. But the evil lives. So vile that were you to look inside its soul, all you would find is a terrible desperation for suffering. To cause it. To revel in it. To bathe in the tears of those it considers less than human and feed off the emotional detritus.

It was 2009. The financial crisis. I was one of the lucky, having found refuge in a large company right before the jobs dried up. General IT: system administration, documentation, project management, telephony, software training, second level help desk. No software development, but with a two-year-old at home and Ph.D.s lining up outside the local Olive Garden whenever a help wanted sign was posted, I grabbed the health insurance and entered into darkness.

The Thing did not need to hunt it's prey. A manager title with 21 reports brought it new opportunities for fresh meat by the hour. But I was special. I resisted. I needed to know my place.

My first mistake was incomprehension. I did not understand the Thing's lust to be right at all costs. I was reviewing some documentation it had brought forth from its bowels. I mentioned that two spaces were being used between sentences. That proportional type made that unnecessary. It insisted, I was wrong. It insisted that Microsoft itself, the purveyor of all good technical writing, required two spaces. I opened the Microsoft Manual of Style for Technical Publications that it demanded its staff use and showed it that the spec was one space. It was livid. I was a problem.

From that point on my work life became exponentially more wretched. I was given three Outlook calendars to maintain: one with my schedule, one with the team's schedule and one with the Thing's schedule. Every time I had an appointment, I was to triple schedule it. If I was going to be away from my desk for more than 15 minutes triple schedule. Triple schedule my lunch, vacations, phone conferences.

Whenever it held a meeting, I and a colleague would be taken off mission critical IT projects to set tables with name tents and to serve as greeters as attendees arrived.

I was called into its crypt to be told never to say anything in a meeting unless I told the Thing beforehand what I was going to say. Naive, I mentioned that I often don't know what I will say as it is often in reply to someone else. Of course the response was that I should not say anything.

I would get emails 10-20 times a day asking about a single project. I would regularly complete work that was needed to be completed ASAP, only to have the Thing rake me over the coals for not completing it a week later. And upon resending the emails proving I notified it of the work being competed, disparaged at length a second time for not sending repeated notifications of the competed work.

I would have to sit in two-hour meetings to watch it type. Literally watch it try to create cogent thoughts. In silence.

I received horrendous annual reviews. At one, it created a development plan that stated a colleague would begin giving me lessons on the proper ways to socially interact with personnel. I pointed out to HR that this violated privacy concerns and would make the business liable in many areas, not least of which would be placing a help desk person in the role of defining proper business practice. HR made the Thing remove this from my review. She started planning to remove me.

I had given a short technical training to a group of personnel months earlier. Called into its tomb I was informed that feedback surveys on my talk were disturbing. One person stated that they did not think I was funny. Another wrote that I made an offensive statement. That person did not say what the offensive statement was. Just that I had said something he or she didn't like.

The Thing interviewed the training attendees. Gathered facts. Held three inquest-like meetings where multiple directors peppered me with questions trying to get me to confess to my offensiveness. In the end the request to fire me was brought to the man who ran the business at the time. The statement on high: "Humor is a subjective thing. Please tell This to be sensitive to that."

The Thing had failed, but would no doubt redouble its efforts. I had to find a new job. I sent hundreds of resumes. Talked to dozens of recruiters. But there were no jobs. And I had a family. And the wolf was at the door.

So I didn't say a word to the creature. For six months. Silence. At one group meeting it shrieked at me "what are you smirking at? If you've got something to say then say it!" I just shrugged. For my salvation was revealed. The Thing could not stand to be ignored. And at the end of my penance I was transferred to another group: Software Development.

I am one with the Force. The Force is with me. I am one with the Force. The Force is with me.

Got my first legit side-gig as a developer (like had to write an SOW and everything): my kids' pediatrician is amazing, but shes switching to a concierge practice, meaning she wont take any insurance, and shes going from about 1500 patients down to about 200. I already pay my mortgage-worth in insurance on a monthly basis, so we were prepared to say adios to her. At my daughter's last appointment, she pulled me aside and said "what can we do to keep you guys as patients?" and i somewhat jokingly suggested "I dunno, need any websites written?"

As a matter of fact, she did: she just fired her practice's web developer, who gave her a shitty wordpress site and fought like hell to avoid any further maintenance or updates for her. She hates the site's current layout (no surprise there) so she is basically giving me full control over a rewrite.

No user logins, no worries about compliance with PII or any of that. Literally just turning a brochure wordpress site into an angular app, hosting it on her own server and eventually building an admin page where she can change the banner text and upload new images.

And my kids will get free, top-notch health care.

I develop health insurance software. Today my world got a lot scarier.

Got the ideal job right now. Over market salary. 100% remote. Mornings to myself until the rest of the team in another time zone comes online. Working within my competency with just enough challenge to make it interesting. Free products for being an employee. Only wish it came with paid health insurance but I do get a partial reimbursement.

I did some grave and irreversible mistakes in my life

- Never gathered enough courage to mingle with women when I was younger and now the hope is lost

- Compromised my values and mental wellness when I met a narcissistic bitch

- Did not invest money wisely when markets were sailing low and allowed that good sum to sit in bank

- Did not plan health and term insurance at early age when premiums could have been low

- Out of fear, did not follow my gut to purchase gold because my father was acting crazy (or else my money would have been doubled)

- Did not plan my taxation well (or until now would have paid almost zero tax)

- Did not define strict boundaries and allowed people to overstep (or else I would have better friends and family relationships)

- Did not quit my job early and stuck with low paying shit with negative learning, for years (or else I would have grown exponentially)

Thankfully few things I did right are, spending more time with my mom and learning from my mistakes.

I hope I don't make such stupid life choices again.

Mail: Meeting about new benefits from working at <COMPANY>. Estimate duration: 1 hour.

Me: Alright, I'll bite. Might even be something I can use.

HR person in said meeting: At <COMPANY> we'll reward you for being healthy by giving you a better life insurance.

Me: Sounds good and reasonable but you also said this didn't require a physical so how...?

HR: Install <APP> on your phone to keep track of all your healthy habits

Me: Wait wha-

HR: Generate our own brand of crypto currency by linking in all your other health apps like google health, and (lists 4 others), goes towards your life insurance and you can even donate water, food or books to the less fortunate! You DO want to help starving children, right?

At that point I just disconnected. I'm not paid to take part in a corporate crypto scheme.

If you're going to request CRITICAL changes to thousands of records in the database, and approve it through testing which is done on an exact replica of production, then tell me it was done incorrectly after the fact it has been implemented and you didn't actually review the changes made to the data or business logic that you requested then you are an idiot. Our staging environment is there to ensure all the changes are accurate you useless human. Its the data you provided, I didn't just magically pull it from thin air to make yours and my job a pain the ass.

I might lose my job this week

I'm part of a team of 2 tech people
We were hired as programmers. But over these past 10 months we've done everything from helpdesk to fixing network infrastructure, i setup a backup server for the company, started properly managing the companies passwords,and a host of other things not in my contract.
But my boss is changing the deadline again and she refuses to listen to anyone's concerns, she doesn't understand the complexity of what she wants and since the best we've done so far can be considered at best a prototype in my opinion shes going to be disappointed

So at the next meeting me and my coworker are going to politely list our grivences point out all shes had us do at the same time and the impossible deadlines.

I've seen herpitch a fit for less so I'm fully prepared to be fired in rage in which case I'll compile the documentation and information on what we've done to email her.

But I'm pretty sure she won't find anything long term for the 40k salary shes expecting. Especially with how slow she is to do work herself. I was supposed to be on company health insurance since October 2020

In a way I'm kinda relieved at the potential of being fired.

I was laid off. The reason? Well, they didn't really want to say but they were clear it wasn't due to performance. (Thankfully, I got severence pay.) From my perspective it really came out of nowhere, no warnings or even hints that this was coming, which has me spinning. 😵 If I'm doing well at my job and the company is doing well, how in the seven hells could I get laid off??

What they said was partly the reason didn't seem true, or not the whole truth. They essentially stated that "they talked with everyone I worked with" (probably not true based on their decision, but who knows) and came to the conclusion I wasn't suitable to work on large teams, and that's the direction they are moving in. As if it wasn't something that could be improved on 🤔

I'll be the first to admit I'm not the best communicator face-to-face, mainly due to my social anxiety but also because I have too many thoughts. It can be difficult to condense them down for other people in the heat of the moment. (I'm an INTP, if that helps you to understand what I mean.) However, I know I'm a pretty good communicator overall since I listen and pay special attention to phrasing and word choice. So most people I worked with there seemed quite satisfied with communication with me. There were only 2-3 out of more than 12 who I had any difficulty working with.

So why did I have trouble properly working with a couple people? I hesitate to say this but, like other jobs I've had, well... they didn't have either the experience or knowledge to understand me. Basically, they were stupid. I was pretty frustrated working with such inadequately prepared people on a complex project with ludicrously short deadlines, and had no desire to work overtime so I could educate or guide them.

To give perspective, one React developer didn't understand how object properties work with JavaScript. 🤦‍♀️ (They are references, by the way. And yes you can have an object reference inside another object!) Another React developer thought it was okay to have side effects during the render lifestyle because they didn't affect the component itself, even if it was a state change in a parent component. 🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️

So what is the real reason I lost my job, if not performance? Could be I pissed off the stupid (and loud) ones which hurt my reputation. My main theory, however, is that I was raising the cost of the company's healthcare. I had a diseased organ so I did miss some work or worked from home more than I should have, and used my very good health insurance to the fullest extent I could. Of course, if they say that's the reason then they can get sued.

Huge bummer, whatever the case. I definitely learned some lessons from this situation that others in a similar position could find useful. I can write that up if anyone expresses interest.

Honestly though, this is a good thing in the end, because I was already planning to leave in a month or 2 once I found a better job. I was waiting for the right time for the project I was on and for my own financial stability. So I'm trying hard not to let this affect my self-esteem and think of it as an opportunity to get my dream job, which is working with a remote-first company that is focused on improving the human condition.

Being unemployed isn't ideal, but at least I didn't have to quit! And I get to have a bit of a vacation of a sort.

Another day, another job description

# Benefits
- Flexible work hours
: You'll be coding to midnight
- Ability to work from home some days
: But watch out for those other days..
- Our office space provides free coffee, beer and soft drinks as well as an amazing modern workspace
: Our tax expense will get you gee'd up and tipsy til you loose track of time. (Future diabetes health insurance not included).
- Growth and future progression opportunity
: Pinky promise!
- Receive valuable company equity
: Plus a set of steak knives for four easy payments
- Latest MacBook Pro
: We own this. We own the thoughts you have while looking at this. Plese think many thoughts.

So, the moment I started as a BA in a health insurance company, my Quora feed gets populated with Dilbert comics, and I can finally relate to them.
Thanks Machine Learning!

Best dev experience of 2017:

Being able to support my family with my work.

Knowing that all of us have health, vision, and dental insurance solely because of me.

Finally being able to give back to those who have helped me over the years.

I'm a .Net developer from Morocco, i'm currently working on an accounting software for this fucking company owned by an American boss. And i'm handling every single aspect of the project including the back-end (C#), Database (Sql Server), Reports (crystal reports, ABAP, VSTO), and design (UI, logos, animation...). For a salary of 300 USD/month, with no insurance, no transportation fees, and no fuck given about my health or my coworkers'. Not mentioning the shitty working hours and condition.
This is my first (job)

So this is what 'It care, engineers' of gov. health insurance replies when they're being notified about deprecated function i.e. window.showModal() is in production

Oh my fucking god. Austria wants to sell the data of it's citizens to schools, universities museums, and: Companies with enough money. What the fuck?

The data contains shit from the central register of residents, information about name, date of birth, sex/gender, nationality, recidence, health data (!), education, social security/insurance, tax data, E-Card/ELGA Data (system where your doctor visits, prescribed medicines/drugs, all these things, are saved), and other shit.

Welcome to 2018, where you can try as hard as you want to keep your privacy, and then your government sells all the shit you are not able to remove. Fucking bullshit.

Technically the first things I received money for were some android apps I published in the Google Play Store. They were icon packs that I created the icons for and mimicked someone's android project. After that created some of my own android apps. First paid career job, hired 2 years ago for java web developer at a health insurance company. I still like it, very appreciated here.

Just got a letter telling me I need to pay my own health insurance as a student. What's that, you want all my money? Fml

!dev

So my (public) health insurance should cover a test I'd like to make. But if I don't want to call a bunch of clinics every week for months only to get an appointment a year later eventually I'll have to pay myself (to get an appointment in a few months instead).

I have a job with health insurance but I’m so stressed out that I overeat and so busy that I don’t have time for prolonged exercise to burn more calories. Ironic that I was healthier when I worked for a diet and exercise company 100% remote that didn’t have a health plan vs driving to work for one that does have a health plan. This feels really upside down.

Hey guys,

I need your advice about deciding wether to work as a freelancer for a startup or no.
So this French startup is couple years old and they decided to build a team in my country. I went to the interview few weeks ago and we discussed the projects, details, potential salary and everything seemed great.

Couple days ago I received a service contract from them and now I need to decide to work for them or no.

Plan is for them to come to my country, rent an office and I should go there and work for them.
The salary that they offered is medium level and they will not have any legal entity in my country. However it’s not a problem for me since I have my own LTD company so I would pay salary on my own.

However there are some cons:

My team members are being hired as freelancers, however salary is defined with a daily rate instead of hourly and we are allowed to work maximum 20 days a month. It is not clear how many hours a week/month they will expect us to work and at this point I’m afraid to rock the boat with my questions. I understand that I shouldn’t receive any health insurance, sick leave pays, vacation days, home office, pension contributions and so on. But it’s so weird that they pay per day instead of per hour. It screams with unpaid overtime.

Payment time is 30 days after invoice has been sent. So If I started working from September 01, I will send them invoice at September 30, then I will work all October and will receive my money only around end of October. Working 60 days to receive my first salary doesn’t seem nice.

Notice period is 30 days. Which is fine on my end since I can be completely free after initial notice. But in their case if they want to fire me I guess they will simply not give me any work to do and since I’m charged per day I won’t be able to send them any invoice. No employment safety, which means if after 2-3 months they don’t have anything to do I can get royally screwed. But it’s startup nature I guess?

They don’t provide a laptop to work with. I’m lucky since I have a laptop for developing mobile apps, and they said they will at least provide office to work in and a monitor.

All this situation is sending vibes of "we want to save money so we came to your country for cheap labour and now we gonna exploit you"

What complicates matters is that my sister will be working with me and It’s her first job. They agreed to pay her a decent salary and even be flexible with her studies. However this deal for me does not seem too great as I will be receiving mid level salary with no benefits that I would otherwise get.

On the other hand maybe I'm just overthinking this I can just try it out for few months and see where it goes.

Any thoughts?

So, I have been working for a company XYZ for about 2 years now and for this 2 years, we are just two engineers handling everything. The job is becoming super stressful and time consuming, the founders dictates how the engineering team operate, ranging from choosing a third party service we are to integrate into the platform without letting us know and also study the api to see if it will be the most viable one to use.

Imagine using a third party service that you can't get through to when something is unclear?

I and my team mate has asked the founders to hire engineers so the work load on us will reduce, they said it's on their mind ( this request was made months ago), fast forward last week, we were told to start interviewing interns ( I don't have problem with interns working with us ), but what we asked for was experience engineers working with us but the founders did entire 180 degree of what we asked.

We have been asking for a QA Engineer for months and months now, all we get is we will hire one, and till now nothing is been done.

Following good software practice has been a problem in company XYZ, we have been finding it difficult to write test and documentation (this shit makes me seriously sick and hate myt po self).

On top of all this, the salary is shitty, there are no benefits, we are coerced into working during weekends (most times), and we are also told to work during our holiday, no single health insurance.

I think I have come to that point where I will have to say good bye ( but I am finding it difficult to do this).

Any suggestions ? Should I wait until I get another job and then I resign from company XYZ or just resign.

I am having an introspective moment as a junior dev.

I am working in my 3rd company now and have spent the avg amount of time i would spent in a company ( 1- 1.5 years)

I find myself in similar problems and trajectories:

1. The companies i worked for were startups of various scales : an edtech platform, an insurance company (branch of an mnc) and a b2b analytics company

2. These people hire developers based on domain knowledge and not innovative thinking , and expect them to build anything that the PMs deem as growth/engagement worthy ( For eg, i am bad at those memory time optimising programming/ ds/algo, but i can make any kind of android screen/component, so me and people like me get hired here)

3. These people hire new PMs based on expertise in revenue generation and again , not on the basis of innovative thinking, coz most of the time these folks make tickets to experiment with buttons and text colors to increase engagement/growth

4. The system goes into chaos mode soon since their are so many cross operating teams and the PMs running around trying to boss every dev , qa and designer to add their changes in the app.

5. meanwhile due to multiple different teams working on different aspects, their is no common data center with up to date info of all flows, products and features. the product soon becomes a Frankenstein monster.

6. Thus these companies require more and more devs and QAs which are cogs in the system then innovative thinkers . the cogs in the system will simply come, dimwittingly add whatever feature is needed and goto home.

7. the cogs in system which also start taking the pain of tracking the changes and learning about the product itself becomes "load bearing cogs" : i.e the devs with so much knowledge of the product that they can be helpful in every aspect of feature lifecycle .

8. such devs find themselves in no need for proving themselves , in no need for doing innovative work and are simply promoted based on their domain knowledge and impact.

My question is simply this : are we as a dev just destined to be load bearing cogs?

we are doing the work which ideally a manager should be doing, ie maintaining confluence docs with end to end technical as well as business logic info of every feature/flow.

So is that the only definition of a Software Engineer in a technical product?

then how come innovations happen in companies like meta Microsoft google open ai etc?

if i have to guess as a far observer, i would say their diversity in different fields helps them mix and match stuff and lead to innovative stuff.

For eg, the android os team in google has helped add many innovative things in google cloud product and vice versa.

same is with azure and windows . windows is now optomissed to run in cloud machines when at one point it was just a horrible memory hogging and slow pc OS

for small companies, 1 ideology/product/domain is their hero ideology/product/domain .

an insurance company tries to experiment with stuff related to insurances,health,vehicles,and the best innovations they come up with is "lets give user a discount in premium if they do 5000 steps a day for an year".

edtech would say "lets do live streaming for children apart from static videos"

but Android team at google said , "since ai team is doing so well, lets include ai in various system apps and support device level models" ~ a much larger innovation as 2 domains combined to make a product

The small companies are not aiming to be an innovative product, they are just aiming to be a monopoly product. and this is kinda sad

Pharmacy... Preorder-mail got stuck in spam due to weird receiver passphrases so they didn't actually order it (it was "banana" followed by an steadily incrementing number). You wouldn't believe their faces after they saw my mail.

It took the pharmacy exactly ONE HOUR to get that medicine after I went up getting them to know that they missed an order. They express ordered it after I guess I signaled the urgency...
That's one of the pretty great things in Germany. If you need medicine and if you're in a medium populated area, you could get it within hours, or at least in 1/2 day if they not express the order and you order over their website.

But this is attacked due to European trade deals. Online pharmacy shops (the ones without local pharmacies) simply trade in from cheaper areas in Europe and can sell much cheaper. Also because they aren't committed to cross finance local hospital medicine delivery which then let's the health insurance raise their prices.
But due to the law for the minimum wage and therefore steadily decreasing wages the online-only pharmacies get more and more of the market cap....
Such problems aren't easy to fix...

Not directly software related but I am a freelancer paying outright for health insurance. I got a letter yesterday saying the health care I am buying is getting cancelled because there are too many unhealthy people on the on the ACA plans. Everyone in my family is healthy and work out. The insurance was 936.00 per month. Now what?

Not really a programming rant, but still very annoying. It is almost 2017 and so I will need to get my health insurance sort out. You would think that it isn't that big of a deal, but almost everything can only be done by calling the insurance company. Even when you can log in with digID (a dutch digital identification system), you still can't change the insurance on the internet.
Come on guys we live in 2016! Something simple like insurances should you be able to fix online!

!dev Nice surprise... Hopefully...

Been having a lot of teeth problems and need like 2 crowns and 1 filling now... Old fillings just suddenly fell out. My regular dentist plan is ok for cleaning but isn't so good for these expensive treatments. And it seems the dentists in network are sorta so-so... The original fillings were done by them like last year....

Well somehow it popped up into my mind that with COVID.... Given its a health crisis and the govt is bending over backwards to deal with it... it may also let me change insurance plans during the year.

Usually enrollment is once a yr until you change jobs... But when I googled I saw that apparently they did.... Though it's upto the employer and the insurance company. They have to negotiate and allow it. Not required to by law.

So anyway last week, I called up my HR asking if they allow it. The rep said they'd need to ask higher up and get back to me this Monday.

I never got a call though but today I took off to deal with all the health stuff and just take a personal day. So I called my "current" dentist insurance to ask what I needed to do to see a specialist for the root canal crown as regular dentist can't do this one.

But they couldn't find my policy because it turned out it was cancelled last week. At this point I'm likeOK WHO FUCKED UP... WHAT THE BLOODY FUCK... IM UNINSURED NOW?!!!

I login to the company benefits site to get their support #. But it also shows my current plans. Where it shows that it got switched.

I still had to call the new insurance to get my ID info...

But I'm like hm... This seems to have worked out well... Assuming everything goes as planned. Basically got 1/2 year on cheap normal coverage but now that I need it, got to switch to the more expensive coverage, which now comes out better: lower overall costs, and better drs...

Last employer -- a major health care insurance carrier -- had over a million current and former subscribers data in SQL database with no encryption on SSN or other personally identifiable information. I reported this as an issue, and was told that since they had intrusion detection, etc. they don't need to encrypt the data. Guess they have never heard of zero day vulnerabilities or disgruntled employees?

I think for this one i had higher expectations which let to me being disappointed. Was a fun experience nonetheless.

So i am junior dev in a bigish company and i am pretty comfortable where i am, its challenging enough and fun enough. Pay is fine nothing out of ordinary but perks are nice.

But this job is the one i got out of college and it did feel that i got really lucky as i was preparing for leetcode and what not but the interviewer was pretty linient and asked me technical questions out of my cv. The questions were mostly about what i used and all felt quite easy and i was offered a role with a decent salary. Since then i have been working and learning and thing been pretty stable.

Recently i was hinted at a promotion by my manager so i have been working towards that. I have in the past got a lot of messages on LinkedIn from different recruiters but never tried because i was satisfied with my job and my visa condition made it a little tricky to hope jobs ( i work in eu as a non eu citizen). But i did fantasize that if i could just get an interview with a decent company and clear the technical round without much preparing and get offered a decent package just to inflate my ego and maybe use that to increase my current package.

So i got another message on LinkedIn and a startup was looking for a developer and i gave it a go. I asked the recruiter what is the expected compensation and he instead asked me. I said i want a big enough increase tk even consider leaving my comfortable spot, so i am looking for more than 35-40% increase If they can then i am willing to try. The recruiter said that their range is between 25-35 but can try 40 if the interviews goes well.

I went ahead with it and gave the interview, the first one was simple and the next one was supposed to be technical and was told its not leetcode but i will have to implement a feature into a project live on the video call. Which i did with some success, i was quite clumsy but i was able to do it with tests passing sl i guess that was fine.

I was really happy that i didnt prepare much and still passed a tech interview. I was recently told about the offer, its around 40% more than my current but there are no yearly bonus or even health insurance. If i consider the bonus and health insurance then the offer becomes like 20% increase. Considering i am already expecting a promotion and some salary increase this offer seems really lack luster.

Just wanted to talk about all this, can you get a really big jump generally or is it only 15-25 ?

cost of living raise that just barely covers the increased cost of health insurance... yay?

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To prevent mold from spreading to other areas of your property, we create a containment zone using physical barriers and negative air pressure. This ensures that spores are not dispersed during the remediation process.

3. Mold Removal and Cleaning
Our team uses specialized cleaning agents and advanced techniques to remove mold from affected surfaces. For non-porous materials, we thoroughly clean and disinfect the surfaces. In cases where mold has deeply penetrated porous materials like drywall or carpeting, we safely remove and dispose of those materials.

4. Air Filtration
To improve indoor air quality, we use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration systems to remove airborne mold spores. This step is crucial in preventing further mold growth and ensuring a healthy environment.

5. Drying and Moisture Control
Since mold thrives in moist conditions, we use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to dry out the affected areas completely. Controlling moisture levels is key to preventing mold from returning.

6. Restoration
After successful mold removal, we offer repair and restoration services to return your property to its original condition. This includes repairing drywall, repainting, and reinstalling flooring if necessary.

Why Choose Water Damage Restoration Atlanta for Mold Removal?
At Water Damage Restoration Atlanta, we take pride in delivering high-quality mold remediation services to the residents and businesses of Atlanta. Here’s what sets us apart:

Experienced Team: Our highly trained and certified technicians have years of experience in mold removal and water damage restoration.
Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art equipment and proven techniques to ensure effective mold remediation.
Fast Response Time: We understand that mold issues require immediate attention. That’s why we offer 24/7 emergency services. Call us at +1 (678) 203-6216, and our team will be on-site promptly.
Comprehensive Services: From mold removal to water damage restoration and structural repairs, we handle every aspect of the remediation process.
Insurance Assistance: We work with your insurance provider to help you navigate the claims process, ensuring that you get the coverage you deserve.
Common Causes of Mold Growth in Atlanta
Understanding the common causes of mold can help you prevent future infestations. In Atlanta, the most frequent causes of mold include:

High Humidity Levels: Atlanta’s humid climate provides ideal conditions for mold growth, especially in poorly ventilated areas.
Water Damage: Leaking pipes, roof leaks, or flooding can introduce excess moisture, leading to mold problems if not properly addressed.
Poor Ventilation: Inadequate ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements can create moisture buildup, encouraging mold growth.
HVAC Issues: Faulty HVAC systems can trap moisture inside ducts, allowing mold to develop and spread through the air.

hey folks, what are your thoughts on different kinds of insurances?

I recently went through a major accident that would have impacted our finances significantly , if i didn't had a corporate insurance. And this led to me researching a lot into different kinds of insurances : health, motor, home, travel, life, term life,... there are so many of these.

And they have a significant cost! they do cover benefits (claims) of even bigger amount but some1 with my salary and 12 different insurance will be shelving out approx 4 months of salary as premium every year. at the same time, our dear ol govt is taking 30% (4 months worth) as taxes.

and then we have a simpler generation that was my parents, who lived their 50+ years without any of these insurances and taxes. their income sources were very less to be taxed (or make considerable savings) , they will rush to govt hospitals for free treatment and prey to never get a major disease, and not leave the world without making their dependents independent.

so this is a weird philosophical question. should i live knowing am secured from stranger companies which may help at times ,while i try to manage my live with 40% of my salary?
or should i live like my parents(& billion others), trusting the govt and system to help me in times of need while i feed them my 30% salary an try to stay alive with the remaining 70%?

APM BILLING: Providing HIPAA-Compliant Billing Services You Can Trust

In today’s healthcare landscape, maintaining patient privacy and data security is paramount. Healthcare providers must adhere to strict standards to protect sensitive information while ensuring that financial operations are smooth and efficient. APM BILLING, based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is dedicated to providing HIPAA-compliant billing services that ensure the highest level of security and compliance, while also optimizing the billing process for healthcare providers.

What Are HIPAA-Compliant Billing Services?
HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) establishes strict rules to ensure that healthcare providers maintain patient privacy and the confidentiality of their health information. As part of our commitment to protecting patient data, APM BILLING offers HIPAA-compliant billing services that meet all of the requirements set forth by this regulation.

Our HIPAA-compliant billing services ensure that all personal health information (PHI) handled during the billing and claims process remains secure. From data encryption to secure transmission, we follow the highest security standards to prevent unauthorized access, breaches, and other vulnerabilities.

Why Is HIPAA Compliance Critical for Healthcare Billing?
For any healthcare business, staying HIPAA-compliant is not just a regulatory necessity—it's essential to maintaining trust with patients and avoiding costly penalties. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines, lawsuits, and damage to your reputation. When it comes to billing, ensuring that all processes follow HIPAA guidelines is critical in preventing unauthorized access to sensitive patient data.

APM BILLING takes privacy and security seriously. Our team is well-versed in all HIPAA regulations, so you can trust that your patient data is always protected. We integrate comprehensive security protocols into our billing workflows, including:

Encrypted communications for all patient data exchanges

Secure data storage that meets HIPAA standards

Audit trails to track access to patient information and billing details

Employee training to ensure that everyone handling sensitive data understands HIPAA guidelines

The Benefits of Working with APM BILLING for HIPAA-Compliant Billing Services
By choosing APM BILLING, you gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing your billing processes are in full compliance with HIPAA regulations. Here are some of the key benefits of our HIPAA-compliant billing services:

Data Security: We use the latest technology to protect patient information, ensuring that all billing data is securely transmitted and stored.

Regulatory Compliance: Our team stays up-to-date with the latest changes to HIPAA regulations, ensuring that your practice remains compliant with all legal requirements.

Reduced Risk of Penalties: HIPAA violations can lead to significant fines and penalties. By outsourcing your billing to APM BILLING, you minimize the risk of compliance issues and the associated costs.

Enhanced Trust: Patients trust healthcare providers to keep their personal and medical information safe. By using our HIPAA-compliant billing services, you show your commitment to maintaining privacy, which fosters trust and enhances your reputation.

Efficiency and Accuracy: In addition to security, we ensure that your billing processes are efficient and accurate, leading to faster claim submissions, reduced denials, and increased revenue.

Why Choose APM BILLING for HIPAA-Compliant Billing Services?
Expertise: Our experienced team is dedicated to ensuring that all of your billing practices comply with HIPAA guidelines.

Tailored Solutions: We offer customized solutions that meet the specific needs of your healthcare practice, whether you’re a clinic, provider, or specialty office.

Focus on Security: We take security seriously and use state-of-the-art systems to protect all sensitive information.

Reliable Support: With APM BILLING, you’ll have a trusted partner in billing that is committed to safeguarding your practice’s financial and data integrity.

Get Started with APM BILLING Today
At APM BILLING, we understand the importance of maintaining HIPAA-compliant billing services in today's healthcare environment. We are here to help your practice stay secure, compliant, and financially efficient.

Contact us today at +1-800-621-3354 to learn more about how we can help streamline your billing process while ensuring complete protection of patient data. Visit our office at 19104 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and let APM BILLING handle your billing needs with the utmost professionalism and care.

Let APM BILLING take the stress out of billing while keeping your practice compliant with HIPAA regulations, so you can focus on what matters most—caring for your patients.

Understanding Medicare Part B with Variety Benefits Insurance Services

At Variety Benefits Insurance Services, we know that navigating the complexities of Medicare can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding the different parts of the program. One of the key components of Medicare is Medicare Part B. Whether you are just starting with Medicare or reviewing your coverage, we are here to guide you through the ins and outs of Part B and help you choose the best options for your healthcare needs.

Located in Scottsdale, AZ, our experienced team of insurance professionals is here to provide personalized service and expert advice, ensuring you make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage.

What is Medicare Part B?
Medicare Part B is the part of Medicare that covers outpatient care, certain preventive services, and medically necessary services and supplies needed to diagnose or treat health conditions. While Medicare Part A covers inpatient care (such as hospital stays), Part B helps pay for services that you receive outside the hospital setting, including visits to your doctor, medical tests, and preventive care.

Enrolling in Medicare Part B is essential for comprehensive coverage, but it’s important to understand exactly what it includes and how it works with other Medicare options.

Why Do You Need Medicare Part B?
Here are some reasons why Medicare Part B is an important part of your healthcare coverage:

1. Outpatient Care
Medicare Part B covers outpatient care, including routine doctor visits, specialist consultations, lab tests, and diagnostic screenings. Whether you need a physical exam, a check-up with your specialist, or diagnostic tests like bloodwork, Part B helps cover these essential services.

2. Preventive Services
One of the key benefits of Medicare Part B is that it helps cover preventive services, such as cancer screenings, vaccinations, and wellness visits. Preventive care can help detect health issues early and keep your healthcare costs down. Services like flu shots, diabetes screenings, mammograms, and colonoscopies are covered under Part B with no additional out-of-pocket costs if received from a doctor who accepts Medicare.

3. Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
Medicare Part B also helps cover the cost of certain medical equipment that is necessary for your health, such as:

Wheelchairs
Oxygen equipment
Walkers
Hospital beds These items can be crucial in managing chronic conditions and improving your quality of life, and Part B provides coverage to help offset the cost.
4. Mental Health Services
Medicare Part B also covers services related to mental health, such as individual and group therapy sessions. Mental health is an important aspect of overall well-being, and Part B ensures you have access to the care you need to support your mental health.

What Does Medicare Part B Cover?
Medicare Part B covers a wide range of services, including but not limited to:

Doctor’s visits: Whether for routine check-ups or specialized care, Part B covers physician visits.
Emergency room services: Medicare Part B helps cover the costs of emergency services if you need treatment in an emergency room.
Diagnostic tests and lab services: Includes blood tests, X-rays, MRIs, and other diagnostic services that help detect or treat medical conditions.
Outpatient surgeries: If you need surgery that doesn't require an overnight stay, Part B covers the procedure.
Ambulance services: If you need emergency transportation to the hospital, Part B helps cover the cost.
Preventive care: Services such as flu shots, cancer screenings, and other preventive tests that help catch health issues early.
How Does Medicare Part B Work?
To get Medicare Part B, you must sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), which typically occurs when you turn 65. Medicare Part B has a monthly premium, which is automatically deducted from your Social Security benefits.

Why Choose Variety Benefits Insurance Services?
Expert Knowledge: We have extensive knowledge of Medicare and Medicare Part B, and we’re here to answer all your questions.
Tailored Plans: We work with you to find the best Medicare Part B options and Medicare Supplement Plans to fit your unique needs.
Local Service: As a local business in Scottsdale, AZ, we offer personalized, face-to-face consultations and guidance for your Medicare decisions.
Ready to Learn More About Medicare Part B?
If you’re ready to get started or have questions about Medicare Part B, Variety Benefits Insurance Services is here to help. We will make sure you fully understand your options and find the right coverage for your healthcare needs.

Contact Us Today
Call +1 (480) 951-5860 or visit us at 28150 N Alma School Pkwy Ste 103-102, Scottsdale, AZ 85262. Let us help you navigate Medicare Part B and find the best options to meet your healthcare goals.

A & R PrimeCare: Empowering Families with Quality Care and Support Across Indiana

At A & R PrimeCare, we understand that providing care for a loved one is both a rewarding and challenging experience. Our mission is to provide personalized, compassionate, and reliable non-medical home care services for seniors and individuals with chronic illnesses. Whether you're searching for a Benefit Navigator near me, senior resources near me, or need structured family caregiving and chronic illness home support, A & R PrimeCare is here to offer support and assistance every step of the way.

Benefit Navigator Near Me: Guiding You Through Care Options

Navigating healthcare benefits can be a confusing and time-consuming task, especially when you’re trying to secure the best options for your loved one. If you’re looking for a Benefit Navigator near me, A & R PrimeCare is ready to help. Our experienced team is knowledgeable about the various healthcare programs, insurance options, and community resources available to seniors and individuals with chronic conditions. We guide families through the complex process of finding the right care plan, ensuring that your loved one gets access to the benefits they deserve, such as Medicare, Medicaid, long-term care insurance, and veterans' benefits.

With our Benefit Navigator services, you don’t have to navigate this process alone—we’re here to help you understand and take advantage of the best resources for your family’s needs.

Senior Resources Near Me: Connecting You with the Support You Need

When you’re looking for senior resources near me, A & R PrimeCare is your trusted partner in finding the right services and support in your community. We are committed to connecting families with the resources they need to care for their loved ones. From local meal delivery programs to transportation services and senior wellness programs, we can guide you in accessing valuable resources that can enhance your loved one's quality of life.

We understand that every family’s needs are unique, which is why we take the time to provide personalized assistance to help you find the best resources available in your area.

Structured Family Caregiving: A Stronger Support System for Families

Caring for a loved one is often a team effort, especially when a family member requires significant care. At A & R PrimeCare, we offer structured family caregiving to support families in providing consistent, coordinated care. This approach allows family caregivers to work together in a structured, organized manner, ensuring that every aspect of their loved one’s care is addressed.

Our structured family caregiving services include training and guidance for family members, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge necessary to provide safe and effective care. Whether it's help with daily activities, managing medications, or providing emotional support, our caregivers work with families to establish clear roles, schedules, and responsibilities to enhance the caregiving process. With structured caregiving, families can ensure a higher level of care and improve overall quality of life for their loved one.

Chronic Illness Home Support: Helping Individuals Manage Long-Term Health Conditions

Living with a chronic illness can be overwhelming, not only for the individual but also for their caregivers. A & R PrimeCare offers chronic illness home support to assist individuals who are dealing with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s, or any other long-term illness. Our home care services are designed to provide the support needed to manage daily activities and reduce the strain on family caregivers.

Our trained caregivers can assist with medication management, mobility support, personal care, meal preparation, and light housekeeping. We work closely with families to create a care plan that addresses the unique needs of the individual, ensuring that they receive the care they need to live as independently as possible. By providing ongoing chronic illness support at home, we help families maintain their loved one's well-being, comfort, and dignity.

Why Choose A & R PrimeCare?

Comprehensive Support: We offer a wide range of services, from benefit navigation to structured caregiving and chronic illness support, designed to meet the unique needs of your family.

Compassionate Caregivers: Our team is dedicated to providing empathetic, professional care that enhances the lives of seniors and individuals with chronic illnesses.

Personalized Plans: We understand that no two families are the same, which is why we create customized care plans that are tailored to the specific needs of each individual.

Local Expertise: As a locally owned business in Indianapolis, we have in-depth knowledge of the community and resources available to families throughout Indiana.

Welcome to Z Family Dental: Exceptional Sarasota Dental Care for the Whole Family

Are you in search of a trusted dental clinic Sarasota? Look no further than Z Family Dental, conveniently located at 2171 Siesta Dr, Sarasota, FL 34239. We proudly serve the Sarasota community by offering comprehensive dental care for individuals of all ages. Whether you need routine teeth cleaning Sarasota, a comprehensive checkup, or more specialized care, our experienced team is here to provide top-notch dental services in a warm, welcoming environment.

Why Choose Z Family Dental?

At Z Family Dental, we are dedicated to providing the best Sarasota dental care available. From general dentistry to advanced procedures, we ensure that each patient receives personalized care in a comfortable setting. Here’s why our clinic is the right choice for all your dental needs:

Comprehensive Sarasota Dental Care: Our dental clinic offers a wide range of services to cater to the needs of your entire family. Whether it’s a simple cleaning or a more complex procedure, we have the expertise and tools to deliver the highest standard of care. We specialize in preventive treatments like teeth cleaning Sarasota and also provide cosmetic and restorative services to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.

Experienced and Caring Team: Our team of dental professionals is committed to making your visit as pleasant as possible. We take the time to listen to your concerns and ensure that you understand all your treatment options. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a long-time patient, we make sure you feel comfortable every step of the way.

State-of-the-Art Technology: We use the latest dental technology to provide the most effective and efficient treatments possible. From digital X-rays to advanced teeth cleaning equipment, our modern tools help us deliver precise, high-quality care.

Convenient Location and Hours: Located in the heart of Sarasota, our dental clinic Sarasota is easy to access for all patients in the area. We offer flexible appointment times to suit your busy schedule, including same-day appointments for emergencies.

Affordable Care for All: At Z Family Dental, we believe that everyone deserves access to top-quality dental care. Our team works with you to ensure that our services are affordable. We offer various payment options and accept most insurance plans to make sure you get the care you need without financial stress.

Services We Offer at Z Family Dental

As your go-to dental clinic Sarasota, we provide a variety of services to maintain your oral health and enhance the appearance of your smile:

Teeth Cleaning Sarasota: Regular dental cleaning near me is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Our professional cleaning services remove plaque and tartar buildup, reduce your risk of gum disease, and leave you with a fresh, clean smile.

Preventive Care: Routine exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants to keep your teeth in excellent condition and prevent future dental issues.

Cosmetic Dentistry: Services like teeth whitening, veneers, and smile makeovers to enhance your smile and boost your confidence.

Restorative Dentistry: Crowns, bridges, fillings, and dental implants to restore function and beauty to your teeth.

Orthodontics: Braces and clear aligners to help straighten your teeth and improve bite alignment.

Book Your Appointment Today

If you're looking for a dental clinic Sarasota that offers excellent care at affordable prices, call Z Family Dental today at +1 (941) 899-0260. Whether you need a routine teeth cleaning Sarasota, a consultation for a cosmetic procedure, or urgent dental care, we’re here to help.

Don't wait—schedule your appointment today and experience the best in Sarasota dental care. At Z Family Dental, we are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, radiant smile for years to come!

Finding the Best Health Insurance Solutions with a Health Insurance Agent and Broker Near You

Choosing the right health insurance can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Whether you’re looking for individual health coverage, family plans, or Medicare options, the process can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. That's where a Health Insurance Agent near me and a Health Insurance Broker in Fort Lee can help you make the best decision for your healthcare needs.

At Alex Gonzalez Health Insurance Advisor, located at 100 Old Palisade Rd, Fort Lee, NJ 07024, we specialize in helping individuals, families, and businesses navigate the complex world of health insurance. As your trusted Health Insurance Broker near me, we’re here to help you understand your options, compare plans, and find the best coverage at an affordable price. Whether you're in Fort Lee or the surrounding areas, we're dedicated to providing personalized service to ensure you get the coverage you need.

What is a Health Insurance Agent?
A Health Insurance Agent is a professional who works directly with health insurance companies to sell their plans to consumers. Agents are usually licensed by the state and specialize in the plans offered by one or more health insurance providers. A health insurance agent can assist you by explaining the plans, helping you choose the right option, and assisting with the application and enrollment process.

Key Benefits of Working with a Health Insurance Agent:

Expert Guidance: A health insurance agent has in-depth knowledge of the different plans available and can help you understand the details of each option.

Access to Multiple Plans: While some agents work with only one insurer, others represent several companies. This means they can provide a variety of plans for you to choose from.

Personalized Service: A health insurance agent takes the time to understand your needs and will work with you to find the best plan for your budget and healthcare needs.

What is a Health Insurance Broker?
A Health Insurance Broker is similar to an agent but with a key difference: brokers are not tied to a specific insurance company. Instead, they work independently and have access to a variety of insurance plans from multiple insurers. This allows brokers to offer a wider range of options, helping you find the best plan that meets your needs without being limited to one provider.

Key Benefits of Working with a Health Insurance Broker in Fort Lee:

Unbiased Advice: Since brokers are independent and not tied to any one insurance company, they can offer impartial advice and help you compare a variety of plans from different insurers.

Wide Range of Options: A broker has access to multiple carriers and can help you compare the coverage, premiums, and benefits offered by each.

Tailored Solutions: Brokers can offer customized solutions based on your specific needs, whether you're looking for individual, family, or group health plans.

Ongoing Support: Health insurance brokers not only assist during the enrollment process but are also available to help with any questions or concerns you may have throughout the life of your policy.

Why Choose a Health Insurance Broker Near Me in Fort Lee?
Finding the right health insurance plan is not just about picking a provider; it’s about ensuring that the plan fits your healthcare needs and budget. With the help of a Health Insurance Broker near me in Fort Lee, you can get personalized advice and support to navigate the numerous options available.

Here’s why working with a local health insurance broker can be a huge advantage:

Personalized, Local Service: As a Health Insurance Broker in Fort Lee, Alex Gonzalez Health Insurance Advisor understands the local health insurance market and can help you find plans that are best suited for residents of Fort Lee and surrounding areas.

Expert Knowledge of State-Specific Plans: Brokers in your area are familiar with plans available in your state and can help you understand local regulations, subsidies, and programs that may be available to you, such as Get Covered NJ for New Jersey residents.

Access to Local Providers: Working with a local broker means that you can be connected with nearby healthcare providers that are in-network for your plan. This ensures you receive the care you need without incurring unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses.

Why Work with Alex Gonzalez Health Insurance Advisor?
At Alex Gonzalez Health Insurance Advisor, we pride ourselves on offering personalized service to help you navigate the complex world of health insurance. Whether you’re looking for Health Insurance Plans, Medicare Coverage, or Marketplace Insurance, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Here’s why you should choose us as your Health Insurance Broker near me: