Entries by Kathryn Morstad

14 Practical Strategies for Seniors to Save Money on Homeowners Insurance

Key Takeaways: With cost of living increases and a fixed or partially-fixed income, affordable homeowners insurance for senior citizens is extremely important. Even where you live can impact your home insurance costs. We offer 14 practical strategies and discounts ideas that will keep insurance costs under control in this volatile marketplace. Annual insurance reviews can […]

How the ‘80% Rule’ Impacts Your Home Insurance: A Complete Guide to Avoiding Costly Mistakes

Key Takeaways: It’s important to understand the difference between ‘replacement value’ and ‘market value’ which can significantly impact your insurance coverage. Ensure your homeowner’s insurance coverage meets the 80% rule which provides adequate coverage and is required by most insurance carriers and mortgage lenders. Be informed about the possible penalties and consequences if your insurance […]

How Much Does a Texting While Driving Ticket Increase Auto Insurance Premiums

Key Takeaways: Drivers with a texting or distracted driving violation are penalized by insurance companies with an average increase of 27% in annual premiums. Teens are especially susceptible to texting and driving which can have long-term consequences if there is an accident or someone is injured. Texting while driving is illegal in most states and […]

Garage Liability vs. Garagekeeper Liability: What Every Auto Shop Owner Must Know

Key Takeaways: In addition to standard business insurance coverage, auto-related businesses may need Garage Liability and Garagekeeper Liability to be fully protected, especially when customers leave their vehicles in the business’s care. Garage Liability and Garagekeeper Liability Insurance cover two different aspects of business insurance coverage, with one protecting the business and the other protecting […]

Bicycle Accident Insurance Coverage – What Cyclists Need to Know

Key Takeaways: Cyclists involved in accidents with motor vehicles may be covered by the driver’s car insurance policy, including UM/UIM coverage. While home insurance provides some protection, it may not cover all risks associated with bicycle accidents. Cyclists should evaluate their policies and consider additional coverage options to close the gaps in protection. Specialized bicycle […]

Does Home Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Key Takeaways: Homeowners insurance policies typically cover water damage that occurs suddenly and accidentally, such as from burst pipes, appliance malfunctions, or storm-related roof damage. Gradual leaks and damage resulting from poor maintenance are generally excluded from coverage. It is crucial to thoroughly understand the specifics of your home insurance policy to know what types […]

Car Insurance After the Death of the Policyholder: A Comprehensive Guide

Key Takeaways: Upon the death of a spouse or family member, it is important for the survivors, especially the executor of any afterlife plans or proposals, to understand the options for car insurance so that surviving family members are covered. It is important to understand current premiums, payments, discounts, and refunds for any policy before […]

Does Car Insurance Cover Scratches and Dents?

Key Takeaways: Whether your vehicle insurance covers scratches and dents depends on the type of coverage you have. Comprehensive insurance typically covers damage caused by events like vandalism or natural disasters, while collision insurance covers damage resulting from accidents. When filing a claim for scratches and dents, it’s important to consider your deductible. If the […]

Do Permit Drivers Need Insurance?

Key Takeaways: All states require young people to acquire a learner’s permit when learning to drive. Depending on your state’s requirements, a permit can be obtained anywhere from 14 years of age to 16 years. Insuring a learner’s permit driver is relatively inexpensive and pays big dividends in demonstrating expectations and parenting by example. We […]

No Down Payment Car Insurance – What You Need to Know

Key Takeaways: No down payment car insurance, or 0 down car insurance, is a great way to get started with car insurance without paying the hefty, full annual or semi-annual premium. Students, new drivers, and contractors can all benefit from the financial flexibility offered by no down payment car insurance where monthly payments are more […]

What is The Penalty for Driving Without Insurance

Key Takeaways: In today’s fast-paced world, driving has become an essential part of our daily lives. Whether it’s commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on road trips, the convenience of having a vehicle is undeniable. However, this convenience comes with a critical responsibility — ensuring that your vehicle is insured at all times. Driving […]

The Difference Between Bodily Injury and Medical Payment Auto Insurance Coverage

Key Takeaways: Bodily Injury Liability serves as your financial protection if you cause an accident that results in injury to another individual. Bodily Injury insurance coverage goes beyond safeguarding your financial resources—it also addresses your legal obligations. Medical Payment coverage provides a wide range of advantages, based on a simple concept: it covers the medical […]

Car Insurance Fraud – All You Need to Know + 12 Strategies to Stay Safe

Key Takeaways: Car insurance fraud can be as simple as exaggerating the number of miles you drive when applying for coverage to criminal activity, like staged accidents or fraudulent medical claims. Fraud related to car insurance can carry stiff penalties like heavy fines and restitution, probation, and even jail time. The overall cost to the […]

Why Did My Car Insurance Go Up?

Key Takeaways: Car insurance costs can be impacted by a variety of factors both personal and ‘big picture.’ Determine if your premium increase is due to your personal changes in circumstances, e.g., recent ticket or accident, change in marital status, or if it is more environmental or legislative affecting everyone. Ask your insurance company or […]

How to Deal with an Insurance Adjuster

Key Takeaways: Insurance adjusters for homes and vehicles have different types of expertise but are basically responsible for the same thing — valuating your property’s damage and issuing compensation based on your coverage. Being prepared with the event information, details, estimates, and knowledge of your insurance coverage can help you during the claims process. We […]

Open Enrollment 2024 – All You Need to Know

Key Takeaways: Get ready for Healthcare Open Enrollment 2024! Read our comprehensive guide, and get detailed insights on the Medicare, ACA, and Marketplace open enrollment periods. Know the open enrollment 2024 deadline for your insurance and find solutions to common pain points. Be informed and make the best choices for your health insurance in 2024! […]

Does Car Insurance Cover Natural Disasters?

Key Takeaways: Weather-related events are causing more and more damage, but your auto insurance policy may not provide adequate coverage to repair or replace your car. Comprehensive coverage covers most natural and man-made disaster damage, but there may be limitations that impact your reimbursement. As weather events and natural disasters seem to get more prevalent […]

Homeowners Insurance Exclusions—What’s NOT in Your Policy?

Key Takeaways: Homeowners insurance can have exclusions that greatly impact on your coverage and your asset protection. Some exclusions may not be impactful, such as flood insurance when you live in a non-flood prone location, but other exclusions may be necessary to include or obtain a rider for coverage. Carefully review your current insurance policy […]