Insurance Center News

Do I Need Life Insurance?

Daniel McClain — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Thinking about buying life insurance? If you’re like most people, you’re likely asking yourself, do I need life insurance in the first place? The reality is that it’s too late to purchase life insurance when you need it. Purchasing a life insurance policy is an investment in peace of mind for your family.

If you’re just starting to look at your options, you need to better understand how the policies work and how much coverage you really need.

How Much Life Insurance Do I Need?

The exact amount of coverage you need largely depends on your personal financial situation. If you’re single and don’t have tons of debt that you’ll pass onto your loved ones, a smaller policy will likely be more than enough. However, if you have children or want to provide for your loved ones more effectively, a larger policy will be in your best interest.

The best way to determine how much coverage you need is to speak with your life insurance provider. They’ll be able to help you calculate how much insurance will best provide for your loved ones.

What Kinds of Life Insurance Are There?

There are two main types of life insurance: term-life policies and whole-life policies. Term life insurance policies provide protection for a set number of years. At the end of that term, you’ll either have to renew your coverage or let it lapse.

A whole-life insurance policy protects you for your entire life. Once you buy the policy, you’ll have coverage as long as you stay current on your premium payments. Since you’re protected for life, premium payments are often more expensive than those associated with term-life policies.

Who Benefits Most from Each Type?

When asking how much life insurance do you really need, your first decision is what type of insurance will work best for your needs.

Younger individuals with fewer expenses and fewer ongoing health conditions will benefit from term-life insurance. Term-life policy premiums are based on age and are very affordable when you are young. They also allow more control over how much insurance you buy.

The best value is to purchase a whole-life policy while you are young. When you purchase a whole-life policy, you lock the rate in for the rest of your life. As long as you make your payments, you will never have to worry about the policy expiring or the premiums increasing as you age.

Get Your Free Quote Today

So, do you need life insurance? Absolutely. Investing in a comprehensive life insurance policy is always a good idea. Contact us to request a free quote for an affordable life insurance policy today.

Read the full article at www.inscenter.com

Can I Stay on My Parents’ Insurance at 26 Years Old?

Daniel McClain — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 01:00:00 GMT

As a child, you were able to use your parents’ health and dental insurance anytime you needed medical care, and you’re able to continue using your parents’ health insurance until you turn 26 years old.

But what happens after you turn 26? If you’re wondering, can I stay on my parents’ insurance over 26 years of age, you’re not alone. Here’s what you need to know.

You’ll Become Ineligible at 26

In most instances, you’ll no longer be eligible to stay on your parents’ health insurance policy after you turn 26 years old. That said, some insurance companies offer what can be called a health-insurance-at-26 grace period. This grace period allows you to stay on your parents’ insurance plan until the end of your birth month.

Your parents will need to contact their insurance provider to find out when your coverage period ends.

What You Need to Do After Losing Coverage

Investing in health insurance is a simple way to protect yourself from overly high medical bills. Once you turn 26, you’ll enter into a special enrollment period. During this time, you’re able to enroll in health insurance coverage that you purchase on your own.

If your employer offers health insurance plans, it’s a good idea to look at those coverage options. If you’re not employed, or your employer doesn’t provide health insurance that you can afford, you’ll need to look for a policy that you can buy on your own.

Work with an Experienced Insurance Agent

The best way to navigate health insurance for 26-year-olds is to work with an experienced health insurance agent. They’ll help you compare plan options and can explain what you’ll want to look for in a policy.

Get Help Today

If you’re tired of asking can I stay on my parents’ insurance over 26 years of age, be proactive. Contact us to learn more about the different types of policies you have access to or to request quotes for comprehensive health and dental insurance in California.

Read the full article at www.inscenter.com

What Kinds of Dental Coverage Do I Need?

Daniel McClain — Tue, 19 Jan 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Dental care is part of taking care of your overall health—but most people don’t spend a lot of time thinking about different kinds of dental coverage available to them. Dental insurance can make it simpler and more affordable to access dental care for you and your family, through all stages of life. So what kind of dental coverage do you need?

Let’s take a look at what you should consider when weighing your options for different kinds of dental coverage.

What Is Basic Dental Care?

Basic dental insurance focuses on covering preventative care and some basic treatments. For example, most basic plans will cover 100% of the cost of regular cleanings, check-ups, and x-rays for every member of the family. These plans may also cover most or part of routine and complex treatments—known as restorative services—such as cavity fillings or root canals. Some basic plans require a 6 to 12 month waiting period before restorative treatment coverage kicks in.

More comprehensive or full-service plans may offer some coverage for even more restorative treatments such as implants, bridges, crowns, dentures, and extractions, plus orthodontic care.

Is Dental Coverage Required?

Dental coverage is not required by law for adults or children. Health insurance plans are not required to provide dental coverage to adults, but they must offer it as an option for children. To receive care from a dentist, you do not need to have dental insurance coverage. Some dentists may offer their services at a discount to uninsured patients.

Can I Buy Dental Insurance on My Own?

Dental insurance is usually available through your employer’s health insurance plan. If coverage is not offered through your employer, you can buy dental insurance on the Health Insurance Marketplace. Dental insurance is available as a stand-alone plan, or you may choose a health insurance plan that includes dental.

What Kind of Dental Coverage Do I Need?

What kinds of dental coverage and insurance you need depends on your age, stage in life, and whether you have children.

Families with Children

Many families with young children may be fine with basic preventative care packages, but if you have several children, the best dental plan types for families include restorative care as well. If you have several children needing sealings or cavity fillings per year, the cost can add up quickly, so it will pay off to have better coverage. As your children get older and closer to needing braces, you’ll want a plan that offers orthodontic care as well.

Adults

Single adults or married adults without children do well with basic preventative care coverage for dental, unless you anticipate needing more comprehensive restorative care or prefer the peace of mind knowing that it’s available to you.

Older Adults

Older adults benefit from full dental coverage that offers some coverage for extraction, implants, and denture services. Even if you don’t need dentures or similar services now, you may need them in the near future, and having the coverage available offers peace of mind.

Want to learn more about different kinds of dental coverage available through Insurance Center Associates? Contact us to request a quote today.

Read the full article at www.inscenter.com

What Is Disability Insurance? And What Does It Cover?

Daniel McClain — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 08:00:00 GMT

If you were injured and could no longer work, what would happen to you and your family? How would you pay your bills? That is where disability insurance comes in. It is protection for your ability to work, earn a living, and support your loved ones.

What is disability insurance? Disability insurance is there to provide income if you become disabled and can no longer work. When you buy disability insurance and pay the monthly premium, your insurance company agrees to pay a portion of your monthly income in the event of a disability that prevents you from working permanently or for some time. Living on disability insurance won’t make you rich, but it will help you keep food on the table.

What Does Disability Insurance Cover?

Disability insurance covers any injury or illness that limits your ability to work. This is more common than you might think: the Social Security Administration predicts that about 1 in 4 adults will become disabled before retirement.

While disability insurance does cover accidents that permanently affect your ability to walk, see, hear, talk, and use your hands, it also covers illness. In fact, 90 percent of disability claims stem from illness rather than physical injury. The most common include:

Arthritis
Back pain
Cancer
Depression
Diabetes
Heart disease
Stroke

An injury or illness does not need to be connected to your workplace to be covered by disability insurance. So if you are disabled by a mountain biking accident or have a heart attack, your disability insurance will still cover you.

Where Can I Get Disability Insurance?

Your employer may offer disability insurance. If not, you can purchase disability insurance through private insurance companies.

Who is Disability Insurance Offered To? Who Can Get Disability Insurance?

Anybody can—and probably should—get disability insurance. Employers in high-risk jobs, such as firefighters, police officers, construction workers, high-rise window washers, and anyone who works with heavy machinery, are more likely to offer disability insurance. People working in high-risk jobs may need to pay higher premiums. But disability can happen to anyone, whether you are on or off the clock. So, it is worth looking into as a safeguard against losing your ability to support yourself and your family.

Is It Similar to Health Insurance?

Health insurance protects your well-being, offering preventative care, and helps to pay for doctor visits, treatments, and prescriptions as you need them. Disability insurance protects your ability to earn an income. With both, you select a plan and pay a premium to offset your personal financial risk. You’ll likely use your health insurance regularly for ongoing health care, while disability insurance will help you pay the bills in the event of a disability.

Want to learn more? Contact Insurance Center Associates for a quote.

Read the full article at www.inscenter.com

Special Holiday Greetings and a story, and music...

Mike Randles — Sat, 26 Dec 2020 02:59:00 GMT

Last night while we were driving home from a “COVID age - Socially distanced” present drop-off vs gathering, I somberly told the car “Drive home”, then “Play Holiday Music”.

A few seconds later a beautiful voice surrounded us, and I immediately recognized the performer and the song. I said - Wow that’s Judy.

It was a sung softly, with emotion, a bit sad but incredibly beautiful. I wondered and had to glance at the screen to see if it was indeed Judy Garland. It was, and at that moment I was asked to turn the volume up, (to level 11 - Gotta love Tesla pushing limits) and we instinctively reached over and held hands.

Tears came to both of our eyes as this original song version with these original words took on a whole new meaning and impact. It's as if it were written for us today.

It is not as jubilant one as the one we may hear and sing today. but with a few different words, so Incredibly meaningful and touching.

This original version from MGM’s “Meet me in St Louis” by Judy Garland was written and recorded reflected the current time in in 1944 during World War 2 when families and friends were also away from each other, separated, torn apart, and ultimately over 70 Million people lost their lives worldwide, 20 million being service men and women.

Interestingly as of today we have nearly 79 Million+ reported COVID19 cases. Mercifully with 1.75 deaths so far. These original lyrics from 1944 are so much like the place we find ourselves in today, and it hit home for me and inspired this message.

As strange and difficult as 2020 has been, we are so very thankful to be still serving you as customers, having you as friends, employees / family. All that means so much, and it is strange, and hurts my soul to not be together.

It is our wish that your holidays are amazing as can be, and that the new year brings to all of us across the world positive changes.

It is our hope as the “original” song lyrics aptly says..

Next year all our troubles Will be out of sight

Once again, as in olden days
Faithful friends who are dear to us Will be near to us once more

Someday soon we all will be together If the fates allow

Until then we’ll have to muddle through somehow

So here’s to you, and our thanks for “Muddling through it all" together!

Happy and Safe Holidays.

Mike, Brien, Lori and the entire Insurance Center Team!

It’s worth a listen. Find it in your favorite app, or if you like here’s a U-Tube link I found to the 1944 released version from MGM’s “Meet me in St Louis” (sound & captioned words only).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NQsuIHMm3w

Here are the original lyrics by Songwriters Hugh Martin and Ralph Blaine
and sung and recorded by Judy Garland in 1944

Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas
Let your heart be light
Next year all our troubles Will be out of sight

Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas
Make the Yule-tide gay
Next year all our troubles
will be miles away

Once again, as in olden days
Happy golden days of yore
Faithful friends who are dear to us
Will be near to us, once more

Someday soon we all will be together
If the fates allow
Until then we’ll have to muddle through somehow
So have yourself a merry little Christmas now

1957 Frank Sinatra requested rewrite version by Hugh Martin for his upcoming album “A Jolly Christmas”

This is more commonly used today

Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas
Let your heart be light
From now on
our troubles will be out of sight

Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas
Make the Yuletide gay From now on
our troubles will be miles away

Here we are as in olden days
Happy golden days of yore
Faithfull friends who are dear to us
Will gather near to us once more

Through the years We all will be together
If the fates allow
So hang a shining star upon the highest bough
And have yourself a Merry Little Christmas now.

Read the full article at www.inscenter.com

How to Protect Your Home During the Holidays

Daniel McClain — Tue, 15 Dec 2020 08:00:00 GMT

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The time for family gatherings, delicious meals, gift exchanges, and holiday parties. But before you go making your travel plans and buying expensive presents, you may want to consider: Does your homeowners insurance cover burglary?

It may be a grim thought. But unfortunately, the holidays are also a time when your home can be vulnerable to break-ins and holiday-related accidents. So make sure you and your home are safe by following these tips on how to protect your home during the holidays.

1. Don’t Broadcast Your Travel Plans

In an age of social media, it’s tempting to post about where you’re traveling or even tag your location while you’re there. But this can be an invitation for criminals, who might see the post and know you’re not around. Keep your travel plans off the internet for your safety and home security.

2. Rely on Your Neighbors

If you’re leaving home for the holidays, it’s a great time to ask a trusted neighbor to help keep watch on your house while you’re gone. Ask them to get the mail, pick up packages, and watch out for any suspicious activity so your house is safe in your absence.

3. Invest in a Home Security System

Don’t have a security system? The holidays are a great time to invest in one. Even if you’re not traveling, you can protect your deliveries and prevent break-ins with door and window sensors, smart lights and locks, smart garage door openers, and more.

4. Get Proper Insurance Coverage

Though the holidays are a magical time, there are still things that could go wrong. House fires could start due to Christmas trees and candles. Holiday decorations could fall and cause damage. Packages could be stolen off your porch, or burglars could swipe your presents from right under your tree. Make sure you’re protected with the right form of insurance.

Ask yourself: Does your car insurance cover burglary? What would you do if someone broke into your home? You can gain greater peace of mind by having proper coverage, including:

Get Great Rates on Insurance Today

Wondering if renters insurance covers burglary? Or do you need better insurance coverage as the holidays approach? Contact Insurance Center Associates to get answers to your questions and find a great rate on all types of insurance. We offer all types of insurance products to help you have a happier, more secure holiday season.

Read the full article at www.inscenter.com

What Does Underinsured Mean? Uninsured Coverage 101 | Insurance Center Associates

Daniel McClain — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 08:00:00 GMT

If you have any form of insurance, you may have a false sense of security. You’ve paid the premium, so you’re safe, right?

Unfortunately, many Americans have underinsured coverage.

What Does Underinsured Mean?

Someone who is underinsured does not have a comprehensive insurance policy, and they don’t have the protections they need in every circumstance that could play out. They could also be underinsured if their out-of-pocket expenses are more than 10 percent of their income, or if their deductible is more than 5 percent of their income.

For example, a person might have liability-only auto insurance, but drive an expensive new car. This means if someone hits that expensive new car and doesn’t have their own auto insurance policy, the insured driver will be paying out of pocket for the damages.

Why Are So Many People Underinsured?

So how do so many people end up with underinsured coverage? This might occur when someone doesn’t read the fine print of their insurance contract. After all, it’s quite common to skim over contracts and sign on the dotted line without knowing what you’re really getting into. A person might easily overlook important parts of the policy and then find out they’re underinsured when it’s too late.

Tips to Avoid Being Underinsured

Luckily, it’s relatively easy to avoid being underinsured. All it takes is some extra effort and care in reading the details of your insurance policy. Follow these tips to avoid being underinsured:

Make sure you have a trusted insurance advisor
Read all contracts closely before committing to a policy
Avoid having only group life insurance
Make sure your insure your valuables
Check your liability coverage limits
Adjust your insurance if:

Your family grows
Your income changes
You or your spouse lose insurance

Get Complete Insurance Coverage Today

If you suspect you may be underinsured, contact Insurance Center Associates today. As a trusted name in insurance, we’re happy to help you get proper coverage so you’re protected no matter what life sends your way. Learn more about our wide range of insurance products today.

Read the full article at www.inscenter.com

When Is the Best Time to Get Wildfire Coverage?

Daniel McClain — Sun, 01 Nov 2020 08:00:00 GMT

If you live near the mountains, forest, or fields and don’t already have wildfire coverage, there’s no better time than today to get the coverage you need. More than 3.5 million acres have burned across the country in 2020 alone, according to the National Centers For Environmental Information. This record-breaking statistic should be enough to convince you that wildfire insurance has never been more essential.

Stats about Wildfires in America

Californians are especially at risk of facing a wildfire in their area—but in reality, a wildfire could happen anywhere. In fact, Congressional Research Service reports that there have been an average of 64,100 wildfires every year over the past decade, with about 6.8 million acres burning annually.

These fires aren’t just burning in remote wilderness, either: Unfortunately, more than 2,500 houses burn down in wildfires every year in America. Many of these fires are accidentally started by people, but others start up due to natural causes such as lightning, extreme heat, or dry weather.

Why is Wildfire Coverage So Important?

Wildfires often happen swiftly and unexpectedly, leaving people little time to pack up their treasured belongings or make any attempt to protect their home from damage. This is why wildfire coverage is so important: it offers security in the face of uncertainty.

Verisk’s Wildfire Risk Analysis report states that more than 2 million homes in California are at serious risk of being in the path of a wildfire. Your home may be one of them. Are you prepared?

What You Need to Know About Wildfire Coverage

Depending on the policy, wildfire insurance may cover the cost of rebuilding the home or even the cost of living while out of a home that is being repaired. Here are some of the most common coverages in a wildfire insurance policy:

Fixing a home damaged by wildfire
Rebuilding a home
Replacing damaged belongings
Temporary housing while a home is being repaired or rebuilt
Living expenses while out of the home

Most wildfire coverage also pays for replacement or repairs of landscaping like trees and shrubs, or other structures on your property, such as sheds and pool houses. Wildfire coverage isn’t just for homes that have burned up in flames, either: they usually cover damage from smoke and soot alone.

Get Wildfire Insurance Today

If you’re not sure where to turn for the best wildfire insurance, contact Insurance Center Associates today. As experts in all types of insurance, we provide affordable wildfire insurance policies to give you peace of mind, even if you have the misfortune of facing a wildfire in your area.

Our policies will allow you to repair or rebuild your home, and live comfortably while you wait for the new home to be finished. Get in touch for a free wildfire insurance quote.

Read the full article at www.inscenter.com

Open Enrollment Health Insurance

Daniel McClain — Thu, 15 Oct 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Open enrollment for health insurance is coming up quickly. Are you ready? But wait—what exactly is open enrollment, anyway? You’ve got a lot going on in life right now. Is it really something you need to worry about?

What Is Healthcare Open Enrollment?

Healthcare open enrollment is a period of time when you can enroll in a health insurance plan. If you’re enrolling through the government marketplace, enrollment for 2021 begins on November 1, 2020.

If you’re enrolling through your employer, the dates for open enrollment may differ. Check with your employer to find out when open enrollment is happening for you.

Why Should You Care About Open Enrollment for Health Insurance?

Open enrollment is important because it greatly affects your healthcare benefits—and it only comes around once a year!

Unless you’ve recently gotten married, had a baby, or lost health coverage, this is typically your only chance to enroll in a plan or change your existing healthcare plan. (Keep in mind, you can apply for Medicaid at any time of year.)

How to Prepare for Open Enrollment

It’s easy for healthcare open enrollment to sneak up on you. Make sure you’re prepared by researching your plan options. Figuring out the best healthcare plan can be overwhelming, especially considering the latest healthcare reforms, but Insurance Center Associates is here to help.

Contact us today before you begin the open enrollment for health insurance process or make any changes to your existing coverage. Our experts can advise you so you get the best health insurance for your needs. We understand the nuances of each type of plan and represent all major insurance carriers. We’re here to answer all of your questions. Get in touch today for a free quote.

Read the full article at www.inscenter.com

Does Uninsured Motorist Insurance Cover Rental Cars? Your Guide to Insurance and Rental Cars

Daniel McClain — Thu, 01 Oct 2020 08:00:00 GMT

You might need a rental car after flying in to visit a new city, or because your vehicle is in the shop. You might even be getting a luxury rental car for a special occasion, or to avoid putting miles on your own car. In any case, you’ll want to make sure your rental car is properly insured before you hit the road.

If you have uninsured motorist insurance, you might think you’re good to go. But does uninsured motorist insurance cover a rental car? Exactly how does insurance work on a rental car, anyway?

Though there tends to be a great deal of confusion surrounding this topic, we’re here to help answer all your questions. Avoid the stress of making costly last-minute decisions on rental car insurance by checking out our helpful guide.

Your Insurance Coverage

If another driver hits your vehicle but doesn’t have insurance, uninsured motorist insurance is designed to cover those costs. But uninsured motorist insurance usually won’t cover property damage to a rental car. On the other hand, it may cover bodily injury, depending on the state you live in.

In short: Whether or not your car insurance covers your rental car depends on your specific policy. So before you book your rental car, we recommend calling your insurance agent and your credit card company.

Ask your insurance company how much coverage you have on your car and whether or not it applies to a rental car. (Sometimes your policy will apply to a car being rented for recreation, but not for business purposes.) Your credit card company might also offer protection against collision or theft, so it’s worth checking into.

Need Rental Car Insurance?

If you find out that your uninsured motorist policy doesn’t cover a rental car, Insurance Center Associates can help. Contact us today to learn more about how you can add the most affordable rental car insurance to your existing car insurance policy.

Read the full article at www.inscenter.com