Sometimes we're owed money but don't know it, or don't know how to go about getting it. Other times we feel guilty about getting the money we deserve. Here are some of those times. You don't need to feel guilty.
Health
The first thing you should do to protect yourself financially in the event of an accident or illness is to get health insurance. Although it's an added cost you'd rather avoid, medical insurance will come in handy if you ever end up in the hospital. Can you fathom being hit with unmanageable medical bills? If you carry insurance, you won't have to worry about paying for any damages out of pocket. Don't forget that staying in good physical shape can help you avoid the need to file any claims at all!
Did you realize that if you get sick or injured due to your job, you have the right to file a claim with the company's worker's compensation program while you are working there? You can file a claim if you were hurt while utilizing faulty equipment or machinery that you were not properly trained to operate. Additionally, your employer cannot hold a grudge against you for filing a claim.
If your injuries prevent you from working, you can still file a claim for compensation and return to your employment if you so want. However, if you believe you are entitled to compensation through the workers' compensation system but your claim has been denied, you may want to consult with an attorney. It's wise to give this option some thought, especially since they typically offer a service where no fees are charged if they don't win the case.
Education
Did you ever think that you can get a tax refund of up to $2500 of your tuition expenses for the first 4 years of your study after you graduate from high school? If you are still in school, this applies to you. This is in place to assist you in acquiring required textbooks and ancillary materials for your course of study. A single taxpayer with an annual income of less than $80,000 is eligible for a tax refund of up to $1,000.
Obviously, if you're making a decent living, you probably won't be eligible to claim anything, but if you're not sure, it's better to find out. Get your parents to look into it if you still live with them, as they may be eligible for a refund as well.
Some of these rights and responsibilities are ones you may not currently be exercising, but to which you are entitled. Obtain all the financial aid and student discounts available to you so that you can focus on your studies instead of worrying about money.