BROWNS SUMMIT, N.C. — Hattie Hayes may have retired years ago, but her attention to detail hasn’t slowed down one bit. The longtime worker, who began earning a paycheck at just 16, says she’s always kept careful records — especially when it comes to her life insurance policy .

“I had insurance, and they paid the premium when I started in 1987 to 2004,” Hayes said. “I only paid $3 a month. When I retired, it went up to $12.30.”

For nearly four decades, Hayes has paid her premium faithfully, keeping every notice and statement filed away. Each year, she looks forward to the report that arrives on October 1 — but this year, something didn’t look right.

A $2,000 Reduction Raises Red Flags

When Hayes opened her most recent statement, she noticed her coverage amount had dropped by $2,000

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