Although it is almost guaranteed to push a lot of usually level headed drivers to lose their cool, it is an unfortunately increasing issue that the road is full of uninsured drivers. Reports state that people caught driving without any insurance on their vehicle has increased almost up to a fifth in the last two years, and that said offenders cause over £500 million worth of damages every year!
The first question on many people’s lips is “Why are they not insuring themselves?!”. Sadly, it is highly likely to be due to the car not being legal. Police reports state that people who are uninsured are six times more likely to have an un-road-worthy car and at least ten times more likely to have other driving convictions such as not paying their car tax and avoiding fines.
It is also a high possibility that it is down the recent hike in young peoples insurance. Many young drivers aged seventeen to twenty one are literally being priced out of being able to legally run a car. With the awkward combination of lower paid jobs, high maintenance cars and premiums increasing up to 22%, if youngsters think they are going to be able to get away with not paying for the insurance they are likely to try to.
Although it is perhaps possible to sympathise with these adolescents, there are a lot of campaigns being operated by police and government to put an end to all none paying drivers. You may have seen the recent TV adverts which openly state that if you avoid insurance, or tax, the government has the power to confiscate, sell or even crush your car.
If you are one of the thousands of people who are not currently insured, it is strongly advised that you reconsider your decision. There are many ways to lower your monthly outgoings for these policies. Many insurance companies offer lower prices if you have completed the “Pas plus” scheme, which is a very good option for younger drivers. You should also take the time to really look at all of your policy options. If you look hard enough it is very likely you will find a much cheaper option.
Friday 13 June 2008
Finding The Right Cheap Life Insurance Policy
While getting a life insurance policy is important you will need to look for ones that are best suited for you. Among the insurance policies that you can get are cheap life insurance policies. To help you find the right cheap life policy you will find that there are different life insurance companies to provide this help.
There are times when people will need to have some type of cheap life insurance. When these times come you will look for trusted companies with which you can take out a life insurance policy. To help you in this endeavor you will find that there are lots of different life insurance agents. These people have the training and the knowledge that you will need.
You can ask these people questions about the various life insurance policies which are available from the company. You will need to make sure that you have asked questions which pertain to the subject matter at hand. When you make an appointment with a life insurance agent makes sure that you have all of the documents which you might need ready in order to get your life insurance readied.
You will need to look into the many different cheap life insurance policies just to see if the one you are looking at is suited for you. You should understand that while many of the life insurance terms are basically the same there will be some differences. These differences will be apparent if you take a look at two identical life insurance policies.
You will however need to make sure that one of the insurance policies that you are examining is that of a cheap life insurance policy. The other insurance policy that you are looking at is that of a higher end policy. Until you have read all of the information that is contained in these two policies it is wise to keep the policies to aside. Now once you have looked at these two documents you might want to think about which terms are more important to your life.
Once you have found out all of the details you can make a decision about applying for the life insurance policy which will help you in rough periods of your life. So when the time comes for getting a cheap life insurance policy you might want to see what your options are. You will be glad that you looked and secured your future with a low costing life insurance policy.
by : Muna wa Wanjiru
There are times when people will need to have some type of cheap life insurance. When these times come you will look for trusted companies with which you can take out a life insurance policy. To help you in this endeavor you will find that there are lots of different life insurance agents. These people have the training and the knowledge that you will need.
You can ask these people questions about the various life insurance policies which are available from the company. You will need to make sure that you have asked questions which pertain to the subject matter at hand. When you make an appointment with a life insurance agent makes sure that you have all of the documents which you might need ready in order to get your life insurance readied.
You will need to look into the many different cheap life insurance policies just to see if the one you are looking at is suited for you. You should understand that while many of the life insurance terms are basically the same there will be some differences. These differences will be apparent if you take a look at two identical life insurance policies.
You will however need to make sure that one of the insurance policies that you are examining is that of a cheap life insurance policy. The other insurance policy that you are looking at is that of a higher end policy. Until you have read all of the information that is contained in these two policies it is wise to keep the policies to aside. Now once you have looked at these two documents you might want to think about which terms are more important to your life.
Once you have found out all of the details you can make a decision about applying for the life insurance policy which will help you in rough periods of your life. So when the time comes for getting a cheap life insurance policy you might want to see what your options are. You will be glad that you looked and secured your future with a low costing life insurance policy.
by : Muna wa Wanjiru
8 Reasons To Change Your Car Insurance Company
Auto insurance is not a luxury but a necessity. And in order to get the maximum advantage experts recommend that you should shop around for auto insurance every 2-3 years. As policies change and newer players enter the market there are so many new attractive auto insurance schemes that you could benefit from. You should consider changing your auto insurance when:
• You are availing a huge mortgage to buy property and the bank or institution offers you a lower interest rate on home and auto insurance through their tie –ups.
• You have moved to another state where the auto insurance rules are different and you will make a saving by transferring your insurance to a new car insurance company. Or when your old car insurance company does not offer service in your new state.
• You want to cut costs and are trying to run your life on a budget. Shop around online for competitive auto insurance rates and change the car insurance company to one who offers the best deal.
• You have purchased a new car and the dealer is offering free insurance for three years. New cars have lower insurance rates so it is best for you to do a comparative study and find a car insurance company that offers a great deal. Car insurance rates vary greatly between car brands and types; find out which car insurance company offers the maximum coverage for the lowest rate.
• You are getting married and now will have two cars. Think about cancelling your individual car insurance policies and getting a joint one for both cars. Similarly if your family is growing and you have many cars used by adults as well as kids, ask auto insurance companies about group insurance schemes that will cover all the cars and drivers in your home. Most companies offer great discounted rates for combining car insurance policies.
• You are retired and now a senior citizen. Car insurance companies offer discounts to those who are 55 and above. There are a great many discounts available for a car that has a good insurance claim record, a car that is not driven every day, and a car that is single driver driven and well maintained.
• You are eligible for coverage through your new job. Many large companies have facilities like auto insurance schemes at premium rates lower than the market. If you are working in such a firm then you must consider cancelling your old policy and taking a new one with the car insurance company chosen by your workplace.
• When the rates being paid by you are high and your car insurance company shows no inclination to offer you a competitive rate. If you are paying too much for car insurance its time you changed your car insurance company to one that is offering you great facilities and rates.
Whatever the reason to change your car insurance company, the World Wide Web has sites where you can compare offers as well as quotes. Sites like LowerMyBills.com give quote comparisons in a click. So, read all you can about car insurance and the companies and determine which car insurance company offer will suit you best.
by : Aaron Brooks
• You are availing a huge mortgage to buy property and the bank or institution offers you a lower interest rate on home and auto insurance through their tie –ups.
• You have moved to another state where the auto insurance rules are different and you will make a saving by transferring your insurance to a new car insurance company. Or when your old car insurance company does not offer service in your new state.
• You want to cut costs and are trying to run your life on a budget. Shop around online for competitive auto insurance rates and change the car insurance company to one who offers the best deal.
• You have purchased a new car and the dealer is offering free insurance for three years. New cars have lower insurance rates so it is best for you to do a comparative study and find a car insurance company that offers a great deal. Car insurance rates vary greatly between car brands and types; find out which car insurance company offers the maximum coverage for the lowest rate.
• You are getting married and now will have two cars. Think about cancelling your individual car insurance policies and getting a joint one for both cars. Similarly if your family is growing and you have many cars used by adults as well as kids, ask auto insurance companies about group insurance schemes that will cover all the cars and drivers in your home. Most companies offer great discounted rates for combining car insurance policies.
• You are retired and now a senior citizen. Car insurance companies offer discounts to those who are 55 and above. There are a great many discounts available for a car that has a good insurance claim record, a car that is not driven every day, and a car that is single driver driven and well maintained.
• You are eligible for coverage through your new job. Many large companies have facilities like auto insurance schemes at premium rates lower than the market. If you are working in such a firm then you must consider cancelling your old policy and taking a new one with the car insurance company chosen by your workplace.
• When the rates being paid by you are high and your car insurance company shows no inclination to offer you a competitive rate. If you are paying too much for car insurance its time you changed your car insurance company to one that is offering you great facilities and rates.
Whatever the reason to change your car insurance company, the World Wide Web has sites where you can compare offers as well as quotes. Sites like LowerMyBills.com give quote comparisons in a click. So, read all you can about car insurance and the companies and determine which car insurance company offer will suit you best.
by : Aaron Brooks
Monday 9 June 2008
Childrens Dental Care
Making sure that our children are included in a pediatric dental care plan as soon as possible is vital. Dental hygiene is important no matter how old you are.It seems unusual but parents add their children to the family health care plan but completely forget the health of their children's teeth. Most children hate visits to the dentist but as the procedures progress it is important that children get into the habit of seeing the dentist routinely from a young age;.
Contained within standard family dental plan programs
Pediatric dental plans are not difficult to find as most are contained in the coverage; if you find that your plan doesn't provide for children below a certain age then you should seek another provider. Read your dental plan carefully to see details of what treatments and other dental services for your child are included. You should request a full version of the plan provisions and exemptions if for some reason your provider has only sent a brief synopsis of cover. This kind of coverage should not be associated with t dental insurance designed for adults as they are very different; this can take care of their special needs.
This type of dentist specializes in child care and their teeth; generally these dental practices only look after children's teeth. having things that they know children like such as video games and toys children then are not as afraid of a visit to the dentist. Pediatric dental practices have been designed to treat children so you can rest assured that your child's every need will be met there.
The reason for all this care is because children have sensitive teeth that are prone to damage and require special attention; this should put them in good position as they mature into young adults. You will be completely covered for all of your children"s dental needs when you have a good pediatric dental care plan. As a parent you can do no more but hope this good habit will continue when they grow older.
When you search for your family dental plan you will find that there are many benefits and coverage for your entire family. If you are looking for a discount then you should spend some time searching online as this is the best place to find family dental care with a lower premium. As there isn't that much difference between family dental plans there is nothing to lose by arranging a plan online to save money. If you care about your children's dental health then you should not delay arranging a pediatric dental care plan wherever you live because they are available all over the country; there isn't really any excuse not to provide the best care you can afford for the health of your families teeth.
By: Dean Calvert
Contained within standard family dental plan programs
Pediatric dental plans are not difficult to find as most are contained in the coverage; if you find that your plan doesn't provide for children below a certain age then you should seek another provider. Read your dental plan carefully to see details of what treatments and other dental services for your child are included. You should request a full version of the plan provisions and exemptions if for some reason your provider has only sent a brief synopsis of cover. This kind of coverage should not be associated with t dental insurance designed for adults as they are very different; this can take care of their special needs.
This type of dentist specializes in child care and their teeth; generally these dental practices only look after children's teeth. having things that they know children like such as video games and toys children then are not as afraid of a visit to the dentist. Pediatric dental practices have been designed to treat children so you can rest assured that your child's every need will be met there.
The reason for all this care is because children have sensitive teeth that are prone to damage and require special attention; this should put them in good position as they mature into young adults. You will be completely covered for all of your children"s dental needs when you have a good pediatric dental care plan. As a parent you can do no more but hope this good habit will continue when they grow older.
When you search for your family dental plan you will find that there are many benefits and coverage for your entire family. If you are looking for a discount then you should spend some time searching online as this is the best place to find family dental care with a lower premium. As there isn't that much difference between family dental plans there is nothing to lose by arranging a plan online to save money. If you care about your children's dental health then you should not delay arranging a pediatric dental care plan wherever you live because they are available all over the country; there isn't really any excuse not to provide the best care you can afford for the health of your families teeth.
By: Dean Calvert
Do Your Research To Find The Right Insurance For You
With so many different types of health insurance plans and restrictions out there, it can be difficult finding the best health insurance for you. However, this process is not impossible to do well with a little research. There are a few items to look for when deciding on health insurance plans, and by considering them all you can make a good decision for yourself and your family about health insurance.
The most important thing to look for is coverage. More often than not, insurance will cover physician visits and fees. Your health insurance should also cover hospital expenses such as room and board in case you are kept overnight or longer for observation or treatment. Good health insurance should also cover surgeries and any expenses associated with surgical treatment. Beyond these typical items of coverage, health insurance plans can diverge greatly.
To really understand what coverage you would utilize and which plan would save you the most money, you will need to make a list of items that you want covered in an insurance plan. For instance, do you have glasses or contacts? Then you may be more interested in a plan that covers vision, either paying for your eye exam and/or partially paying for your glasses or contacts.
Though many people think that health insurance covers prescriptions, prescription coverage is actually an optional benefit. If you know that you often have prescription drugs to fill, finding insurance that offers prescription coverage may be a must. If you are a woman and plan on having or want to have children, maternity care or family planning services are also optional benefits that you may want to consider. Once you make this must-have list of optional coverage, you can begin looking for health insurance plans that give you the opportunity to add these optional benefits.
Another item you should definitely consider is if your current physicians or specialists are included in the health insurance company's preferred provider network or if you have the opportunity to choose any physician (often the case only with indemnity or traditional health insurance plans). If you would like the freedom to choose your own doctor, traditional health insurance plans or preferred provider organizations may offer more attractive plans, though these also cost a little more.
Lastly, consider price. After researching different coverage plans and physician requirements, compare deductibles and monthly premiums to find the best deal. Often, you can get group rates through your employer, or you may find that artist organizations (for freelance artists) offer health care plans. By researching price, as well as other health insurance options, you can make the best choices for your family.
By: Albert Alexander
The most important thing to look for is coverage. More often than not, insurance will cover physician visits and fees. Your health insurance should also cover hospital expenses such as room and board in case you are kept overnight or longer for observation or treatment. Good health insurance should also cover surgeries and any expenses associated with surgical treatment. Beyond these typical items of coverage, health insurance plans can diverge greatly.
To really understand what coverage you would utilize and which plan would save you the most money, you will need to make a list of items that you want covered in an insurance plan. For instance, do you have glasses or contacts? Then you may be more interested in a plan that covers vision, either paying for your eye exam and/or partially paying for your glasses or contacts.
Though many people think that health insurance covers prescriptions, prescription coverage is actually an optional benefit. If you know that you often have prescription drugs to fill, finding insurance that offers prescription coverage may be a must. If you are a woman and plan on having or want to have children, maternity care or family planning services are also optional benefits that you may want to consider. Once you make this must-have list of optional coverage, you can begin looking for health insurance plans that give you the opportunity to add these optional benefits.
Another item you should definitely consider is if your current physicians or specialists are included in the health insurance company's preferred provider network or if you have the opportunity to choose any physician (often the case only with indemnity or traditional health insurance plans). If you would like the freedom to choose your own doctor, traditional health insurance plans or preferred provider organizations may offer more attractive plans, though these also cost a little more.
Lastly, consider price. After researching different coverage plans and physician requirements, compare deductibles and monthly premiums to find the best deal. Often, you can get group rates through your employer, or you may find that artist organizations (for freelance artists) offer health care plans. By researching price, as well as other health insurance options, you can make the best choices for your family.
By: Albert Alexander
Tips for Reducing Your Car Insurance Rates
Are you looking for a way to reduce your car insurance rates? Obviously, you don’t want to have to spend more money on your car insurance than you have to. Therefore, you might want to consider taking a few simple steps to make certain your insurance rates are as low as possible.
Step #1: Choose Your Car Wisely
In order to get the lowest rates possible, you need to take care in choosing the right car. Certain cars are automatically going to have a higher insurance rate associated with them. Sports cars and cars that are more frequently stolen, for example, will have higher rates. Other factors also go into determining the rates associated with different cars. For example, the costs associated with repairing the car and replacing its parts will have an impact on the rates, as will the overall safety record of the vehicle. You can contact the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in order to get a list of those cars that are considered safe and are likely to offer lower insurance rates.
Step #2: Shop Around
The second step you need to take in order to get the lowest car insurance rates possible is to shop around. Each company will offer different rates, so contact many different insurance companies and find out what kind of rates they have to offer. When comparing rates from different companies, however, you need to make sure the policies are the same. Otherwise, one company may seem to be more expensive than another simply because the policy provides more coverage.
Step #3: Increase Your Deductibles
Another way to lower your insurance premiums is to increase your deductibles. Of course, if you are in an accident or if something else happens to your car, you will have to pay a higher deductible before you can collect on your insurance payment. At the same time, increasing your deductible can have a major impact on the cost of your premiums. In fact, changing your deductible from $200 to $500 can drop the cost of collision and comprehensive coverage by as much as 15 or 30%. Increasing your deductible to $1,000 can decrease your premium by 40% or even more.
Step #4: Reduce Your Coverage
Reducing the amount of coverage you have in place can also lower your insurance rates. If you have an older car that doesn’t have a very high value, for example, you might want to consider dropping your collision and comprehensive coverage. The amount of extra money you are paying each month in order to have this coverage may not be worth the amount of money you will receive if something does happen to your car.
Step #5: Ask About Discounts
Many car insurance companies provide discounts for special situations. If you have a teenager on your policy, for example, you may be able to reduce your payments if your teen is getting good grades in school. You may also be able to reduce your rates if you drive a low number of miles with your vehicle.
By: Shannon Kietzmann
Step #1: Choose Your Car Wisely
In order to get the lowest rates possible, you need to take care in choosing the right car. Certain cars are automatically going to have a higher insurance rate associated with them. Sports cars and cars that are more frequently stolen, for example, will have higher rates. Other factors also go into determining the rates associated with different cars. For example, the costs associated with repairing the car and replacing its parts will have an impact on the rates, as will the overall safety record of the vehicle. You can contact the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in order to get a list of those cars that are considered safe and are likely to offer lower insurance rates.
Step #2: Shop Around
The second step you need to take in order to get the lowest car insurance rates possible is to shop around. Each company will offer different rates, so contact many different insurance companies and find out what kind of rates they have to offer. When comparing rates from different companies, however, you need to make sure the policies are the same. Otherwise, one company may seem to be more expensive than another simply because the policy provides more coverage.
Step #3: Increase Your Deductibles
Another way to lower your insurance premiums is to increase your deductibles. Of course, if you are in an accident or if something else happens to your car, you will have to pay a higher deductible before you can collect on your insurance payment. At the same time, increasing your deductible can have a major impact on the cost of your premiums. In fact, changing your deductible from $200 to $500 can drop the cost of collision and comprehensive coverage by as much as 15 or 30%. Increasing your deductible to $1,000 can decrease your premium by 40% or even more.
Step #4: Reduce Your Coverage
Reducing the amount of coverage you have in place can also lower your insurance rates. If you have an older car that doesn’t have a very high value, for example, you might want to consider dropping your collision and comprehensive coverage. The amount of extra money you are paying each month in order to have this coverage may not be worth the amount of money you will receive if something does happen to your car.
Step #5: Ask About Discounts
Many car insurance companies provide discounts for special situations. If you have a teenager on your policy, for example, you may be able to reduce your payments if your teen is getting good grades in school. You may also be able to reduce your rates if you drive a low number of miles with your vehicle.
By: Shannon Kietzmann
Twelve Ways to Save on Your Auto Insurance Policy
Want to save money on your car insurance? Here are suggestions from the Insurance Information Institute (III).
1. Comparison shop. Use consumer guides online from your state's insurance department. These guides tell you what coverages you need and show you sample auto insurance rates, usually from the biggest companies. Get auto insurance quotes from at least three insurers.
2. Ask for higher deductibles. When you file a claim, a deductible is the amount of money you pay before your auto insurance company pays for the rest of the damage. Higher deductibles mean lower premiums. For example, increasing your deductible from $200 to $500 on collision and comprehensive coverage could reduce that portion of your premium by 15 to 30 percent, according to III.
3. Drop collision and/or comprehensive coverages on old cars. If your car is totaled in an accident, you receive the actual cash value of the car. Although auto insurance companies use their own criteria to determine fair market value for vehicles, you can get a ballpark estimate from Kelley Blue Book. For older cars, it may not make financial sense to pay premiums over many years to maintain collision and comprehensive coverage.
4. Buy a "low-profile" car. Cars that are expensive to repair or that have a high theft rate have higher car insurance rates.
5. Take advantage of low-mileage discounts. Some auto insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who put fewer than a predetermined number of miles on their vehicles each year. And with the high price of gasoline, driving less makes financial sense.
6. Consider auto insurance rates when making a move. Car insurance rates tend to be lowest in rural communities and highest in cities, where more traffic congestion occurs and the likelihood of theft increases.
7. Ask about discounts for air bags and other safety features. Your insurance agent can tell you know about these discounts when you purchase your coverage. Most policies give discounts for air bags.
8. Ask about antilock brake discounts. Some states require insurers to give discounts for cars equipped with antilock brakes. Some auto insurance companies give the discount no matter where you live.
9. Ask about other discounts. Some insurers offer discounted auto insurance quotes for insuring more than one car, having no accidents in three years, being a driver over age 50, taking driver-training courses, having antitheft devices and being a long-time customer. Plus, remember good-student discounts when you are insuring a student who drives.
10. Buy your home and auto policies from the same insurer. This will entitle you to a multiline discount.
11. Find out about group discounts. Sometimes group auto insurance policies are available through large employers, professional groups and other organizations.
12. Maintain good credit. Your credit rating may affect your car insurance rates. Use of credit scores in setting auto insurance prices varies by state and insurance company, but statistics show that drivers with good credit records tend to have fewer accidents.
By: Amy Danise
1. Comparison shop. Use consumer guides online from your state's insurance department. These guides tell you what coverages you need and show you sample auto insurance rates, usually from the biggest companies. Get auto insurance quotes from at least three insurers.
2. Ask for higher deductibles. When you file a claim, a deductible is the amount of money you pay before your auto insurance company pays for the rest of the damage. Higher deductibles mean lower premiums. For example, increasing your deductible from $200 to $500 on collision and comprehensive coverage could reduce that portion of your premium by 15 to 30 percent, according to III.
3. Drop collision and/or comprehensive coverages on old cars. If your car is totaled in an accident, you receive the actual cash value of the car. Although auto insurance companies use their own criteria to determine fair market value for vehicles, you can get a ballpark estimate from Kelley Blue Book. For older cars, it may not make financial sense to pay premiums over many years to maintain collision and comprehensive coverage.
4. Buy a "low-profile" car. Cars that are expensive to repair or that have a high theft rate have higher car insurance rates.
5. Take advantage of low-mileage discounts. Some auto insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who put fewer than a predetermined number of miles on their vehicles each year. And with the high price of gasoline, driving less makes financial sense.
6. Consider auto insurance rates when making a move. Car insurance rates tend to be lowest in rural communities and highest in cities, where more traffic congestion occurs and the likelihood of theft increases.
7. Ask about discounts for air bags and other safety features. Your insurance agent can tell you know about these discounts when you purchase your coverage. Most policies give discounts for air bags.
8. Ask about antilock brake discounts. Some states require insurers to give discounts for cars equipped with antilock brakes. Some auto insurance companies give the discount no matter where you live.
9. Ask about other discounts. Some insurers offer discounted auto insurance quotes for insuring more than one car, having no accidents in three years, being a driver over age 50, taking driver-training courses, having antitheft devices and being a long-time customer. Plus, remember good-student discounts when you are insuring a student who drives.
10. Buy your home and auto policies from the same insurer. This will entitle you to a multiline discount.
11. Find out about group discounts. Sometimes group auto insurance policies are available through large employers, professional groups and other organizations.
12. Maintain good credit. Your credit rating may affect your car insurance rates. Use of credit scores in setting auto insurance prices varies by state and insurance company, but statistics show that drivers with good credit records tend to have fewer accidents.
By: Amy Danise
Taking Your First Steps Toward Travel Insurance
There is always a sense of dread about what could happen along the way when one travels domestically or internationally.That is why the best safety you can get for such travels is to buy travel insurance. Travel insurance gives you the rest of mind you need from the start of your travel to the time you return back into your home.
Don't overlook the likelihood of some sort of mishap that can happen along the way. There's also the possibility of people suffering enormous financial loss when they travel, whether domestically or internationally. If one takes the time to get travel insurance before embarking on any trip, one is adequately protected in the event of any unfortunate occurrence. You can get the travel insurance you need from the insurance companies, or even from the banks. You can buy the travel insurance that will be on a per-trip basis; such insurance will adequately cover any issue that will arise from the point of departure to the time you return.
There are certain travel insurance that you can buy which are specifically for risky countries you might want to travel to, or risky behavior you might want to engage in while you are away on such travels. It's unlikely that the rates of all the travel insurance are the same. It's your trip situation that should determine which travel insurance you should buy. For a trip to Europe that can last two weeks for you and your spouse, get a travel insurance package that's from seventy to one hundred twenty.
Rates of traveling to Africa are also similar. For those who intend to travel to countries that have the risks of terrorists' attacks, they should ensure they get travel insurance that covers such journeys. Finally, it doesn't matter whether you are traveling locally or internationally, you need travel insurance.
By: Mike Strom
Don't overlook the likelihood of some sort of mishap that can happen along the way. There's also the possibility of people suffering enormous financial loss when they travel, whether domestically or internationally. If one takes the time to get travel insurance before embarking on any trip, one is adequately protected in the event of any unfortunate occurrence. You can get the travel insurance you need from the insurance companies, or even from the banks. You can buy the travel insurance that will be on a per-trip basis; such insurance will adequately cover any issue that will arise from the point of departure to the time you return.
There are certain travel insurance that you can buy which are specifically for risky countries you might want to travel to, or risky behavior you might want to engage in while you are away on such travels. It's unlikely that the rates of all the travel insurance are the same. It's your trip situation that should determine which travel insurance you should buy. For a trip to Europe that can last two weeks for you and your spouse, get a travel insurance package that's from seventy to one hundred twenty.
Rates of traveling to Africa are also similar. For those who intend to travel to countries that have the risks of terrorists' attacks, they should ensure they get travel insurance that covers such journeys. Finally, it doesn't matter whether you are traveling locally or internationally, you need travel insurance.
By: Mike Strom
10 Steps to Buying Auto Insurance
Introduction
The following simple steps will help you determine how much car insurance you need to carry. And it will also help you get the best coverage at the lowest price.
Step 1: Starting Out
When it comes to auto insurance, you want to be adequately covered if you get in an accident but you don't want to pay any more than you have to. So how can you navigate your way through this murky subject?
Keep telling yourself there is money to be saved. How much? Hundreds, even thousands, per year. For example, one of our editors typed all of his insurance information into a comparative insurance service. The quotes (for very basic coverage on two old cars) ranged from $1,006 to $1,807 — a difference of $801 a year. If you're currently dumping thousands into your insurance company's coffers because of a couple of tickets, an accident or a questionable credit rating, shopping your policy against others may be well worth the effort.
Look at it this way — you can convert the money you save into the purchase of something you've desired for a long time. Hold that goal in your mind.
Step 2: How Much Coverage Do You Need?
To find the right auto insurance, start by figuring out the amount of coverage you need. This varies from state to state. So take a moment to find out what coverage is required where you live. Make a list of the different types of coverage and then return for the next step.
Now that you know what is required, you can decide what you need in addition. Some people are quite cautious. They base their lives on worst-case scenarios. Insurance companies love these people. That's because insurance companies know what your chances are of being in an accident, and how likely it is for your car to be damaged or stolen. The information the insurance company has collected over previous decades is crunched into "actuarial tables" that give insurance adjustors a quick look at the probability of just about any occurrence.
Step 3: Review Your Driving Record and Current Insurance Policy
Before you begin shopping for insurance you should check the following: the status of your driving record, your current coverage and the premiums you are paying.
You should know how many tickets you have had recently. But time plays tricks and our memories repress painful incidents. If you can't remember how long that speeding ticket has been on your record, check with your state's DMV. If your record will soon improve, and the points you earned will finally disappear, wait until that happens before you get quotes. Nothing drives up the price of insurance like a bad driving record.
Step 4: Solicit Competitive Quotes
Now that you have made several practical and philosophical decisions, it's time to start shopping. Begin by setting aside about an hour for this task. Bring all your records — your current insurance policy, your driver license number and your vehicle registration. Drink plenty of coffee. Have a phone at your elbow. And, of course, power up your computer.
Begin with the online services. If you go to InsWeb.com or other online insurance quote sites, you can type in your information and get a list of comparative quotes. These forms take about 15 minutes to complete. If this bores you, just remind yourself how much you will be saving and that you can use the money to buy something nice for yourself..
Step 5: Record and Compare Quotes
While you're researching companies, make notes in a separate computer file or on a piece of paper divided into categories. This will keep you from duplicating your efforts
Step 6: Work the Phones
Once you have exhausted your online options, it's time to work the phones. Those companies you haven't been able to get an online quote from should be contacted. At times, doing this process verbally can actually go faster than the online counterpart, providing you have all the information regarding your driver license and vehicle registration close at hand. When you get a quote, be sure to confirm the price. Also, ask them to fax or e-mail the quote to you as a record.
Step 7: Look for Discounts
While talking to the insurance companies' telephone salespeople, make sure you explore all options relating to discounts. Insurance companies give discounts for a good driving record, favorable credit score, safety equipment (for example, antilock brakes), certain occupations or professional affiliations and more.
Step 8: Choosing the Right Insurance Company
You now have most of the information in front of you that you need to make a decision. However, there is something more to consider. You can clearly see which company is least expensive, but when you need them to cover a claim, what kind of job will they do? To put it another way, which is the most reliable insurance company?
Step 9: Review the Policy Before You Sign
So, you've done your research, and you've decided on a company. Before you sign, though, read the policy. In addition to verifying that it contains the coverage you want, there are two clauses that you should look for in the contract:
Retain your right to sue. "Find out if you are giving up your right to go to court and will be forced into arbitration if there is a disagreement [between you and the insurance company]," one expert advised. "You're much better off if you don't give up this right…. It makes it easier for [insurers] to take advantage of you." If you find a clause to this effect, all isn't necessarily lost. "At least in theory, a contract is a mutual agreement, so you should be able to cross out that line in the policy," he said. If the company won't agree to the policy sans clause, then you should probably take your business elsewhere.
Avoid aftermarket parts requirements. If an insurance company has written in the policy that "new factory," "like kind and quality" or "aftermarket parts" may be used for body shop repairs, go to another company, one expert advised. If you own a relatively new car that you plan to keep for a while, you will probably be much happier if you spend a little more time researching companies on the front end rather than try to fight the company when you have a claim.
Step 10: Cancel Your Old Policy
After you lock in the insurance policy you want with the company you select, you have two more things to do. The first is to cancel coverage with your existing insurance company. Second, if your state requires you to carry proof of insurance, make sure you either have it in your wallet or the glove compartment of your car (some experts discourage this, however — if your car is stolen, the thief has everything he needs to prove the vehicle is his).
Now, there's one last thing to do: reward yourself for saving so much money on car insurance.
By: Lara Newcomb
The following simple steps will help you determine how much car insurance you need to carry. And it will also help you get the best coverage at the lowest price.
Step 1: Starting Out
When it comes to auto insurance, you want to be adequately covered if you get in an accident but you don't want to pay any more than you have to. So how can you navigate your way through this murky subject?
Keep telling yourself there is money to be saved. How much? Hundreds, even thousands, per year. For example, one of our editors typed all of his insurance information into a comparative insurance service. The quotes (for very basic coverage on two old cars) ranged from $1,006 to $1,807 — a difference of $801 a year. If you're currently dumping thousands into your insurance company's coffers because of a couple of tickets, an accident or a questionable credit rating, shopping your policy against others may be well worth the effort.
Look at it this way — you can convert the money you save into the purchase of something you've desired for a long time. Hold that goal in your mind.
Step 2: How Much Coverage Do You Need?
To find the right auto insurance, start by figuring out the amount of coverage you need. This varies from state to state. So take a moment to find out what coverage is required where you live. Make a list of the different types of coverage and then return for the next step.
Now that you know what is required, you can decide what you need in addition. Some people are quite cautious. They base their lives on worst-case scenarios. Insurance companies love these people. That's because insurance companies know what your chances are of being in an accident, and how likely it is for your car to be damaged or stolen. The information the insurance company has collected over previous decades is crunched into "actuarial tables" that give insurance adjustors a quick look at the probability of just about any occurrence.
Step 3: Review Your Driving Record and Current Insurance Policy
Before you begin shopping for insurance you should check the following: the status of your driving record, your current coverage and the premiums you are paying.
You should know how many tickets you have had recently. But time plays tricks and our memories repress painful incidents. If you can't remember how long that speeding ticket has been on your record, check with your state's DMV. If your record will soon improve, and the points you earned will finally disappear, wait until that happens before you get quotes. Nothing drives up the price of insurance like a bad driving record.
Step 4: Solicit Competitive Quotes
Now that you have made several practical and philosophical decisions, it's time to start shopping. Begin by setting aside about an hour for this task. Bring all your records — your current insurance policy, your driver license number and your vehicle registration. Drink plenty of coffee. Have a phone at your elbow. And, of course, power up your computer.
Begin with the online services. If you go to InsWeb.com or other online insurance quote sites, you can type in your information and get a list of comparative quotes. These forms take about 15 minutes to complete. If this bores you, just remind yourself how much you will be saving and that you can use the money to buy something nice for yourself..
Step 5: Record and Compare Quotes
While you're researching companies, make notes in a separate computer file or on a piece of paper divided into categories. This will keep you from duplicating your efforts
Step 6: Work the Phones
Once you have exhausted your online options, it's time to work the phones. Those companies you haven't been able to get an online quote from should be contacted. At times, doing this process verbally can actually go faster than the online counterpart, providing you have all the information regarding your driver license and vehicle registration close at hand. When you get a quote, be sure to confirm the price. Also, ask them to fax or e-mail the quote to you as a record.
Step 7: Look for Discounts
While talking to the insurance companies' telephone salespeople, make sure you explore all options relating to discounts. Insurance companies give discounts for a good driving record, favorable credit score, safety equipment (for example, antilock brakes), certain occupations or professional affiliations and more.
Step 8: Choosing the Right Insurance Company
You now have most of the information in front of you that you need to make a decision. However, there is something more to consider. You can clearly see which company is least expensive, but when you need them to cover a claim, what kind of job will they do? To put it another way, which is the most reliable insurance company?
Step 9: Review the Policy Before You Sign
So, you've done your research, and you've decided on a company. Before you sign, though, read the policy. In addition to verifying that it contains the coverage you want, there are two clauses that you should look for in the contract:
Retain your right to sue. "Find out if you are giving up your right to go to court and will be forced into arbitration if there is a disagreement [between you and the insurance company]," one expert advised. "You're much better off if you don't give up this right…. It makes it easier for [insurers] to take advantage of you." If you find a clause to this effect, all isn't necessarily lost. "At least in theory, a contract is a mutual agreement, so you should be able to cross out that line in the policy," he said. If the company won't agree to the policy sans clause, then you should probably take your business elsewhere.
Avoid aftermarket parts requirements. If an insurance company has written in the policy that "new factory," "like kind and quality" or "aftermarket parts" may be used for body shop repairs, go to another company, one expert advised. If you own a relatively new car that you plan to keep for a while, you will probably be much happier if you spend a little more time researching companies on the front end rather than try to fight the company when you have a claim.
Step 10: Cancel Your Old Policy
After you lock in the insurance policy you want with the company you select, you have two more things to do. The first is to cancel coverage with your existing insurance company. Second, if your state requires you to carry proof of insurance, make sure you either have it in your wallet or the glove compartment of your car (some experts discourage this, however — if your car is stolen, the thief has everything he needs to prove the vehicle is his).
Now, there's one last thing to do: reward yourself for saving so much money on car insurance.
By: Lara Newcomb
Affordable Auto Insurance: What's Everyone Else Paying?
All drivers want affordable auto insurance, but the average price drivers pay for insurance yearly varies greatly from state to state because of factors such as the stability of the economy and the state's population size. Check out the following information to find out how much insured drivers in your state are paying compared to other states.
According to Insurance Information Institute (www.iii.org), the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) calculates average auto insurance expenditures per state by assuming that all insured vehicles have liability insurance, but not necessarily comprehensive or collision coverage. The average auto insurance expenditure, therefore, measures the price consumers actually pay for insurance on each vehicle rather than equaling the sum of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage together. This is because most policyholders do not usually carry all three types of coverage. NAIC data also shows that 77 percent of insured drivers buy comprehensive coverage in addition to liability insurance. And only 72 percent purchase collision coverage.
In a September 2007 NAIC report, New Jersey held the record for the highest average auto insurance expenditure per year at $1,184. Following closely behind were the District of Columbia at $1,182, New York at $1,122, Massachusetts at $1,113 and Louisiana at $1,076. North Dakota is the least expensive state for auto insurance at $554 per year, and Iowa followed closely behind at only $555.
The price insured drivers pay is affected by the type of coverage purchased, as well as other factors. People who live in states where the economy is healthy are much more likely to buy new cars than people who live in an unhealthy economy. Since the coverage drivers select for new cars differs and can be more costly than coverage for an older car, these states often have relatively higher average auto insurance expenditures per year. Urban population, traffic density, and per capita income also significantly impact the price of auto coverage. Highly urban states with high traffic density and higher wages and prices will usually possess the highest auto insurance expenditures per year.
In an NAIC chart comparing average annual auto insurance expenditures by state (http://www.iii.org/media/facts/statsbyissue/auto), Texas drivers in 2005 paid an average of $845. So, the average cost of Texas auto insurance ranked at number 17. Arizona auto insurance cost about $926 per year in 2005, down from $931 in 2004, keeping Arizona ranked number 14 both years among the rest of the states. In California, insured drivers paid an average of $847 in 2004 and $845 in 2005. This ranks California auto insurance as the 18th most expensive coverage in the United States in 2005. In Florida, ranked sixth in 2004 and 2005, insured drivers paid an average of $1,062 in 2004 and $1,063 in 2005. North Carolina is one of the least expensive states for auto insurance coverage, ranking at number 47 in 2004, with an average cost of $597. However, in 2005, the average auto insurance cost increased to $602.
Finding affordable auto insurance is so important to most drivers, but depending where you live, prices will vary. How do auto insurance rates in your state compare with the rest?
By: Ryan Patterson
According to Insurance Information Institute (www.iii.org), the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) calculates average auto insurance expenditures per state by assuming that all insured vehicles have liability insurance, but not necessarily comprehensive or collision coverage. The average auto insurance expenditure, therefore, measures the price consumers actually pay for insurance on each vehicle rather than equaling the sum of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage together. This is because most policyholders do not usually carry all three types of coverage. NAIC data also shows that 77 percent of insured drivers buy comprehensive coverage in addition to liability insurance. And only 72 percent purchase collision coverage.
In a September 2007 NAIC report, New Jersey held the record for the highest average auto insurance expenditure per year at $1,184. Following closely behind were the District of Columbia at $1,182, New York at $1,122, Massachusetts at $1,113 and Louisiana at $1,076. North Dakota is the least expensive state for auto insurance at $554 per year, and Iowa followed closely behind at only $555.
The price insured drivers pay is affected by the type of coverage purchased, as well as other factors. People who live in states where the economy is healthy are much more likely to buy new cars than people who live in an unhealthy economy. Since the coverage drivers select for new cars differs and can be more costly than coverage for an older car, these states often have relatively higher average auto insurance expenditures per year. Urban population, traffic density, and per capita income also significantly impact the price of auto coverage. Highly urban states with high traffic density and higher wages and prices will usually possess the highest auto insurance expenditures per year.
In an NAIC chart comparing average annual auto insurance expenditures by state (http://www.iii.org/media/facts/statsbyissue/auto), Texas drivers in 2005 paid an average of $845. So, the average cost of Texas auto insurance ranked at number 17. Arizona auto insurance cost about $926 per year in 2005, down from $931 in 2004, keeping Arizona ranked number 14 both years among the rest of the states. In California, insured drivers paid an average of $847 in 2004 and $845 in 2005. This ranks California auto insurance as the 18th most expensive coverage in the United States in 2005. In Florida, ranked sixth in 2004 and 2005, insured drivers paid an average of $1,062 in 2004 and $1,063 in 2005. North Carolina is one of the least expensive states for auto insurance coverage, ranking at number 47 in 2004, with an average cost of $597. However, in 2005, the average auto insurance cost increased to $602.
Finding affordable auto insurance is so important to most drivers, but depending where you live, prices will vary. How do auto insurance rates in your state compare with the rest?
By: Ryan Patterson
Car insurance policy
One of the most important things that you need to keep in mind while buying a valuable commodity is to insure it. There are insurance companies offering policies which cover all aspects of our daily existence, from our health to wealth. It is therefore no different with vehicles or your personal car. Auto or car insurance is an extremely beneficial investment. You don’t want to lose control one day in the high speed lanes, injure yourself and your car and dump it helplessly. A car insurance policy is extremely vital and valid in order to prevent such mishaps.
A car insurance policy in the US in fact also acts as insurance for he driver of the car. A car insurance policy there covers many aspects. First of all the physical damage suffered by your car is covered. This means that in case of collision the property loss to your car is covered. Secondly, there is the comprehensive coverage which insures your car in the event of damage caused by non-collision factors, such as fire, theft, vandalism, etc. The car insurance policy also covers the liabilities, which may either be bodily injury or property damage.
The insurance covering for the bodily injury relates to the incident of death of the driver, which may either be you or anyone else recognized by the car insurance policy. In case of property damage it relates to the damage caused to someone else’s vehicle or property by your car. The extent of the liability is fixed at the time of insurance however. Besides these a car insurance policy also covers your medical expenses resulting from accidents.
Hence as you can see, the importance of a car insurance policy cannot be overstated. It is not only meant for the safety of your car alone but more importantly for the well-being of you and your family.
By: brenda
A car insurance policy in the US in fact also acts as insurance for he driver of the car. A car insurance policy there covers many aspects. First of all the physical damage suffered by your car is covered. This means that in case of collision the property loss to your car is covered. Secondly, there is the comprehensive coverage which insures your car in the event of damage caused by non-collision factors, such as fire, theft, vandalism, etc. The car insurance policy also covers the liabilities, which may either be bodily injury or property damage.
The insurance covering for the bodily injury relates to the incident of death of the driver, which may either be you or anyone else recognized by the car insurance policy. In case of property damage it relates to the damage caused to someone else’s vehicle or property by your car. The extent of the liability is fixed at the time of insurance however. Besides these a car insurance policy also covers your medical expenses resulting from accidents.
Hence as you can see, the importance of a car insurance policy cannot be overstated. It is not only meant for the safety of your car alone but more importantly for the well-being of you and your family.
By: brenda
Reasons to Buy Insurance
Many people think insurance is a waste of money, while others believe in over insuring themselves. This brings up the question, "Why buy insurance?" Most people actually hate the idea of paying for insurance, since the odds of actually needed it are pretty low.
You pay monthly to something in the event that you might need it one day. Insurance itself comes in many forms such as auto insurance, homeowners insurance, life insurance, health insurance, renters insurance and many, many more varieties.
The purpose of having insurance is to protect you and your loved ones against any unforeseen tragedy. There are two ways you can go about buying insurance, should you decide you need it. There are agents who will guide you in the right direction and then you can also purchase it on your own. Be careful to do the research and learn about the different policies available. Then compare them against each other and make the best decision.
There is a definite advantage of using an agent to purchase your insurance policy. Make sure you find a reputable one that is with a solid company. They are able to offer you advice and any suggestions that can help you in your situation. The obvious advantage of doing it yourself is that you will pay less for your insurance.
When looking to buy insurance, ask yourself if you need that specific type. Make sure you understand exactly what it covers before purchasing. If you think that type of insurance is right for you, next figure out how much of it you need. Policies are different and can vary in what they cover.
Look at the dollar amount or if they are going off a percentage (of your loss). There might be just a deductible you are responsible for. Make sure you know exactly what is included and excluded.
If you have decided to purchase it on your own, the internet is a great tool for researching insurance. If you have gone with an agent make sure you are happy with the company that he is selling with, or go with an independent agent who has access to multiple companies. Make sure that the company is able to pay on your claims, if you ever have to file one. Look up ratings online for certain companies but also ask the agent.
Check with your state's insurance commission for any complaints or refusals to pay specific claims. Consider paying annually or even semi-annually, this can save you money. If you purchase more than one type of insurance from the company that also can help save you some money.
If you are a college graduate, check out what your alumni association has to offer. Colleges usually partner up with reputable companies and offer discounts. The same applies to professional and religious associations. Network within your own resources when looking for insurance, try to avoid specials advertised on television the cover very little.
Think of insurance as small savings account that will protect you against catastrophic loss. Most people do not have enough in savings to protect their assets and livelihood in case something horrible and unexpected happens. These events may include totaling your car, a serious illness, your house burning down, grand theft of your property and more.
Most people cannot afford a $250,000 medical bill or come up with the money out of their savings to replace their home and personal property in the event of a fire. Insurance is a "savings account" in case the worst happens so you do not have to come out of pocket in these scenarios.
Insurance will protect you and your family from possible bankruptcy, can replace your property, your vehicle and provides a lifeline for your family if you unexpectedly die. Insurance is one of the most sound investments you can make to protect yourself and your property, so buy the best possible policy you can afford.
Then you can rest easy knowing you are covered, although make sure you understand and research the coverage you are buying to understand the exclusions and what is actually covered by the policy.
By: Christina Costa
You pay monthly to something in the event that you might need it one day. Insurance itself comes in many forms such as auto insurance, homeowners insurance, life insurance, health insurance, renters insurance and many, many more varieties.
The purpose of having insurance is to protect you and your loved ones against any unforeseen tragedy. There are two ways you can go about buying insurance, should you decide you need it. There are agents who will guide you in the right direction and then you can also purchase it on your own. Be careful to do the research and learn about the different policies available. Then compare them against each other and make the best decision.
There is a definite advantage of using an agent to purchase your insurance policy. Make sure you find a reputable one that is with a solid company. They are able to offer you advice and any suggestions that can help you in your situation. The obvious advantage of doing it yourself is that you will pay less for your insurance.
When looking to buy insurance, ask yourself if you need that specific type. Make sure you understand exactly what it covers before purchasing. If you think that type of insurance is right for you, next figure out how much of it you need. Policies are different and can vary in what they cover.
Look at the dollar amount or if they are going off a percentage (of your loss). There might be just a deductible you are responsible for. Make sure you know exactly what is included and excluded.
If you have decided to purchase it on your own, the internet is a great tool for researching insurance. If you have gone with an agent make sure you are happy with the company that he is selling with, or go with an independent agent who has access to multiple companies. Make sure that the company is able to pay on your claims, if you ever have to file one. Look up ratings online for certain companies but also ask the agent.
Check with your state's insurance commission for any complaints or refusals to pay specific claims. Consider paying annually or even semi-annually, this can save you money. If you purchase more than one type of insurance from the company that also can help save you some money.
If you are a college graduate, check out what your alumni association has to offer. Colleges usually partner up with reputable companies and offer discounts. The same applies to professional and religious associations. Network within your own resources when looking for insurance, try to avoid specials advertised on television the cover very little.
Think of insurance as small savings account that will protect you against catastrophic loss. Most people do not have enough in savings to protect their assets and livelihood in case something horrible and unexpected happens. These events may include totaling your car, a serious illness, your house burning down, grand theft of your property and more.
Most people cannot afford a $250,000 medical bill or come up with the money out of their savings to replace their home and personal property in the event of a fire. Insurance is a "savings account" in case the worst happens so you do not have to come out of pocket in these scenarios.
Insurance will protect you and your family from possible bankruptcy, can replace your property, your vehicle and provides a lifeline for your family if you unexpectedly die. Insurance is one of the most sound investments you can make to protect yourself and your property, so buy the best possible policy you can afford.
Then you can rest easy knowing you are covered, although make sure you understand and research the coverage you are buying to understand the exclusions and what is actually covered by the policy.
By: Christina Costa
Will Your Home Insurance Cover Your Home Based Business?
Many home business owners are unaware that their home insurance may not cover their home based business as well. Statistics show that close to 60% of the 18 million home based businesses in the US are knowingly or unknowingly gambling with the future of their businesses. In many cases people just assume that their regular home insurance will extend to cover their home based business as well. Unfortunately, in the world of insurance, of rather in the business of insurance, you've got to inquire about, apply for and pay for extended coverage such as home based business insurance.
It's important to acknowledge that most homeowner policies only cover a loss of business property up to $2500, and many policies will not cover losses away from home. Furthermore regular homeowner insurance does not cover liability coverage for business related activity. When you think about the consequences, you might get your self in gear and look into your policy. Imagine if a client slipped and fell during an appointment at your home based business? You could be in the midst of nasty lawsuit and with no coverage! Or, imagine that the theft of your $15,000 worth in computer equipment. It would be a more than unpleasant surprise to find out that your home insurance will not cover the majority of your losses.
In order to assess the type of insurance you'll need for your home based business, you'll want to ask yourself these pertinent questions: How much inventory do you have, and what would be the total cost of replacement? How many customers do you have, and how often do they come to your home? Would you be able to cope if a disaster forced you and your business out of your home temporarily, or would this be totally out of the question impossible?
There are different types of policies available and you'll want to narrow it down to which one best fits you and your business. Look into different insurers and see what sort of packages they offer. Business owner's policy, home office policy, and a business pursuits endorsement all offer varying levels of property damage coverage and liability insurance.
Home based business owners should also consider taking certain steps beyond insurance to cover themselves:
- Keep office equipment away from the site of passers-by on the street.
- Ensure that fire extinguishers and dead bolt locks are installed.
- Money and important documents should be kept in a fireproof safe.
- Motion-sensitive outside lights should be installed and any debris or potentially hazardous obstacles should be removed.
- Ensure that electrical circuits are never overloaded.
- Have back-up of all important documents and store them at a separate location.
If you're a home based business you'll want to make sure you know the details of your insurance, and don't assume that your homeowners insurance will cover your business as well!
By: Ted Guarnero
It's important to acknowledge that most homeowner policies only cover a loss of business property up to $2500, and many policies will not cover losses away from home. Furthermore regular homeowner insurance does not cover liability coverage for business related activity. When you think about the consequences, you might get your self in gear and look into your policy. Imagine if a client slipped and fell during an appointment at your home based business? You could be in the midst of nasty lawsuit and with no coverage! Or, imagine that the theft of your $15,000 worth in computer equipment. It would be a more than unpleasant surprise to find out that your home insurance will not cover the majority of your losses.
In order to assess the type of insurance you'll need for your home based business, you'll want to ask yourself these pertinent questions: How much inventory do you have, and what would be the total cost of replacement? How many customers do you have, and how often do they come to your home? Would you be able to cope if a disaster forced you and your business out of your home temporarily, or would this be totally out of the question impossible?
There are different types of policies available and you'll want to narrow it down to which one best fits you and your business. Look into different insurers and see what sort of packages they offer. Business owner's policy, home office policy, and a business pursuits endorsement all offer varying levels of property damage coverage and liability insurance.
Home based business owners should also consider taking certain steps beyond insurance to cover themselves:
- Keep office equipment away from the site of passers-by on the street.
- Ensure that fire extinguishers and dead bolt locks are installed.
- Money and important documents should be kept in a fireproof safe.
- Motion-sensitive outside lights should be installed and any debris or potentially hazardous obstacles should be removed.
- Ensure that electrical circuits are never overloaded.
- Have back-up of all important documents and store them at a separate location.
If you're a home based business you'll want to make sure you know the details of your insurance, and don't assume that your homeowners insurance will cover your business as well!
By: Ted Guarnero
Wednesday 2 April 2008
10 Tips On Reducing Renters Insurance Costs
Renting a home or office necessitates insurance protection. The insurance protects renters against fire, theft, vandalism, natural disasters or a liability suit. Leading insurance companies offer renter’s insurance policies with varied coverage. Most renters insurance policies cover perils like: fire, storms, explosions, riots, aircraft collisions, vehicle accidents, smoke, mischief, theft, natural disasters, falling objects, floods, electrical or plumbing mishaps, earthquakes, and more.
Be an educated purchaser of renters insurance and make the effort to find out whether the renters policy offers ACV, actual cash value or RCC, replacement cost coverage.
The premium for renters insurance depends on many factors like where you live, the age of the building and so on. There are many ways by which you can aim to reduce renters insurance costs:
1. Buy a policy after making comparisons online and offline. Choose a policy that offers the most at the lowest premium.
2. When choosing a rental home or office think of how the location and age of the building will affect your insurance premiums. Choose a location that is affordable but does not cause a huge increase in insurance costs.
3. Reduce costs by increasing your deductibles. Create a financial plan and make sure you can actually afford the deductible payments.
4. Keep a check list of what will increase renter’s insurance costs. For example do not buy or adopt a dog on an impulse. Many companies are wary about covering owners of certain breeds of dogs and other pets.
5. Maximize safety features in your rental space. Insurance companies offer great discounts when protective devices like fire detectors, smoke alarms, burglar alarms, and fire extinguishers are installed in a rental space.
6. Think about buying a renters insurance policy from the same insurance company that has covered your health and vehicle. When companies know that you are a reliable and responsible citizen they offer what is known as “multi-line discounts.”
7. Read articles and tips on insurance online and determine how you can benefit most.
8. Follow in the rental space the safety regulations recommended by authorities. Take good care of storing inflammables, left over pain thinners, and other hazards.
9. Before buying a renters insurance policy create a list of valuables in your possessions and inform the insurance company about them. Items like art, antiques, diamonds, jewelry, and state-of-art electronics may need additional riders/coverage on the renters policy.
10. Always check online, in magazines and news papers for special offers and discounts being offered by insurance companies.
Being a responsible citizens and having a good credit rating and report is also advantageous and insurance companies offer better deals to individuals who are considered to be low risk.
Get greater renters insurance benefits by planning your life well. Insurance costs have many variables and depend on aspects like your age, insurance coverage, financial standing, debt and more.
The World Wide Web is a thriving marketplace for online renters insurance policies. Insurance bought online is often cheaper than offline. Websites devoted to insurance bring online leading insurance companies and the most affordable options. Customers online can also make use of tools like insurance risk computation, and online quote comparison tools.
Be an educated purchaser of renters insurance and make the effort to find out whether the renters policy offers ACV, actual cash value or RCC, replacement cost coverage.
The premium for renters insurance depends on many factors like where you live, the age of the building and so on. There are many ways by which you can aim to reduce renters insurance costs:
1. Buy a policy after making comparisons online and offline. Choose a policy that offers the most at the lowest premium.
2. When choosing a rental home or office think of how the location and age of the building will affect your insurance premiums. Choose a location that is affordable but does not cause a huge increase in insurance costs.
3. Reduce costs by increasing your deductibles. Create a financial plan and make sure you can actually afford the deductible payments.
4. Keep a check list of what will increase renter’s insurance costs. For example do not buy or adopt a dog on an impulse. Many companies are wary about covering owners of certain breeds of dogs and other pets.
5. Maximize safety features in your rental space. Insurance companies offer great discounts when protective devices like fire detectors, smoke alarms, burglar alarms, and fire extinguishers are installed in a rental space.
6. Think about buying a renters insurance policy from the same insurance company that has covered your health and vehicle. When companies know that you are a reliable and responsible citizen they offer what is known as “multi-line discounts.”
7. Read articles and tips on insurance online and determine how you can benefit most.
8. Follow in the rental space the safety regulations recommended by authorities. Take good care of storing inflammables, left over pain thinners, and other hazards.
9. Before buying a renters insurance policy create a list of valuables in your possessions and inform the insurance company about them. Items like art, antiques, diamonds, jewelry, and state-of-art electronics may need additional riders/coverage on the renters policy.
10. Always check online, in magazines and news papers for special offers and discounts being offered by insurance companies.
Being a responsible citizens and having a good credit rating and report is also advantageous and insurance companies offer better deals to individuals who are considered to be low risk.
Get greater renters insurance benefits by planning your life well. Insurance costs have many variables and depend on aspects like your age, insurance coverage, financial standing, debt and more.
The World Wide Web is a thriving marketplace for online renters insurance policies. Insurance bought online is often cheaper than offline. Websites devoted to insurance bring online leading insurance companies and the most affordable options. Customers online can also make use of tools like insurance risk computation, and online quote comparison tools.
Insurance And Why You Should Take Notice
Insurance is one of the most essential financial tools you will need in all aspects of your life, yet it is a topic that many people overlook. Insurance can be boring as well as confusing, but it is important that you get the basics right so that you don’t get caught out.
Always need more
When you are looking at which types of insurance you need, it is easy to overlook some things that you need insuring. If you can afford to insure something or be protected against something then it pays to do so. You usually need more insurance than you think, both in terms of types of insurance and levels of cover.
Don’t pay too much
Although insurance is necessary, you don’t want to pay too much for it. Insurance is only worth it at the right price. Paying too much for insurance will outweigh the advantages that it gives you. Always shop around for your insurance, and consult independent financial advice if you are unsure about which insurance package is right for you.
Look online
If you want information about insurance terms, prices, or lenders then the best place to look is online. Some of the best insurance deals can be had online, and using one website to compare prices is much more convenient than walking round your high street talking to different lenders. If you want to save time then look online for your insurance first.
What insurance do you need?
Obviously the type and amount of insurance you need really depends on your lifestyle and individual needs. However, there are a number of types of insurance that most people should
have or at least consider having. These include:
· Life insurance
· Vehicle insurance
· Property insurance
· Liability insurance
· Travel insurance
· Medical insurance
Obviously there are many other types of insurance, and if you have something that you want to protect then you will probably be able to get insurance for it.
Is insurance worth it?
Many people think that insurance is a waste of time because it costs them money and they never claim. This is a good thing, because you really don’t want to have to claim on your insurance. Good insurance is essential, because it protects the things that we value most. If anything should happen to these items then we know we will be compensated for it or be able to replace it.
Insurance to avoid
As well as good insurance there are plenty of types of insurance that you should avoid. Never pay too much for your insurance or more than you think it is worth, because this defeats the point of the insurance policy. Also, don’t sign anything that has strict limits on what you can claim for, making the policy almost worthless. Try and get a good level of cover at the right price, and before agreeing to anything check that the lender is reputable and that if you need to claim they will be able to compensate you.
Always need more
When you are looking at which types of insurance you need, it is easy to overlook some things that you need insuring. If you can afford to insure something or be protected against something then it pays to do so. You usually need more insurance than you think, both in terms of types of insurance and levels of cover.
Don’t pay too much
Although insurance is necessary, you don’t want to pay too much for it. Insurance is only worth it at the right price. Paying too much for insurance will outweigh the advantages that it gives you. Always shop around for your insurance, and consult independent financial advice if you are unsure about which insurance package is right for you.
Look online
If you want information about insurance terms, prices, or lenders then the best place to look is online. Some of the best insurance deals can be had online, and using one website to compare prices is much more convenient than walking round your high street talking to different lenders. If you want to save time then look online for your insurance first.
What insurance do you need?
Obviously the type and amount of insurance you need really depends on your lifestyle and individual needs. However, there are a number of types of insurance that most people should
have or at least consider having. These include:
· Life insurance
· Vehicle insurance
· Property insurance
· Liability insurance
· Travel insurance
· Medical insurance
Obviously there are many other types of insurance, and if you have something that you want to protect then you will probably be able to get insurance for it.
Is insurance worth it?
Many people think that insurance is a waste of time because it costs them money and they never claim. This is a good thing, because you really don’t want to have to claim on your insurance. Good insurance is essential, because it protects the things that we value most. If anything should happen to these items then we know we will be compensated for it or be able to replace it.
Insurance to avoid
As well as good insurance there are plenty of types of insurance that you should avoid. Never pay too much for your insurance or more than you think it is worth, because this defeats the point of the insurance policy. Also, don’t sign anything that has strict limits on what you can claim for, making the policy almost worthless. Try and get a good level of cover at the right price, and before agreeing to anything check that the lender is reputable and that if you need to claim they will be able to compensate you.
Top 10 life insurance shopping tips
1. Who should buy life insurance? If you can answer yes to any of the following questions, then you should consider buying life insurance.
• Does anyone rely on you for financial support? If so, life insurance will help to protect their financial well being.
• Do you have a mortgage, car loan or any other outstanding debts? If so, a life insurance policy can provide a way to take care of these outstanding bills, along with any others like funeral expenses, legal fees, taxes, and medical expenses.
• Do you own a business? If so, you are liable for the debts your business owes. Your personal assets could be liquidated to pay these debts, which could leave little left for your family. Plus, if you have a partner, life insurance could help them buy out your portion of the business.
• Do you want to leave money to a charity? You can use life insurance to leave money to your favourite charity.
2. Who you would like to insure? You can get a policy on your own life, for other members of your family, or a joint one for you and your spouse.
3. What would you like your life insurance policy to achieve?Some of the things a life insurance policy can take care of include: pay funeral expenses, pay outstanding balances on your mortgage and other debts, offset the loss of your income for a period of time, and/or contribute to the future education of your children.
4. How much life insurance do you need? Well that will depend on what you would like your life insurance to accomplish. As a result, there is no one-size fits all answer. However, there are online life insurance calculator tools that can help. Life insurance calculators will help you find out roughly how much life insurance you'll need to have in order to ensure that your family, loved ones and your debts are looked after in the event of your death.
5. How long will you need life insurance for? Again, this is often determined by what you would like your life insurance to achieve. You can estimate the timing of your life insurance needs by asking yourself questions like: When will my mortgage be paid off, when will my children be finished school, and when will I retire? Also, there are online tools that after asking a few short questions will analyze your life insurance needs and offer guidance.
6. What type of life insurance do you need? There are two kinds of life insurance: term and permanent. Term life insurance offers protection for a set period of time, usually 10 to 20 years; while permanent insurance provides a lifetime of protection. Term insurance is more affordable than permanent insurance, offering you an opportunity to get a large amount of coverage at a lower cost. Permanent life insurance on the other hand is more expensive than term, as it offers lifetime coverage along with possible savings and investment options. The good news is if you want a permanent-style policy without the savings or investment options, you can go for a Term to 100 policy which offers coverage until age 100.
7. What medical information will you need to provide to obtain your policy? Typically, the more medical information you provide, the better the price. A life insurance policy that asks few or no medical questions will likely be far more expensive then a policy that asks for your medical information. Plus, depending on the insurer, your age, and the amount of coverage you want, you could be asked to provide blood or urine samples. For these, a nurse will visit, at no cost to you.
8. What are the renewal options and requirements of the policy? Most term policies are renewable until you reach the age of 70 or 75. Questions to ask your broker: will I have to take a medical to renew, is the renewal premium guaranteed, and if not how much can I expect my rate to increase at the time of renewal?
9. What are the conversion options and restrictions of the policy? As your life changes, you may want to convert your life insurance from term to permanent. When you purchase your policy, find out if there are any limitations for conversion, like age or into what type of permanent policy you can convert to – the fewer limitations the better.
10. What will the cost be? Well that depends on the individual. The best way to get the cheapest rate is to shop around. Thanks to the Internet, it is fast, free and easy to go to life insurance shopping comparison websites like Canada’s own www.kanetix.ca, to compare rates. By shopping online, you are sure to find the best deal on life insurance from many of Canada’s best-known life insurance carriers.
• Does anyone rely on you for financial support? If so, life insurance will help to protect their financial well being.
• Do you have a mortgage, car loan or any other outstanding debts? If so, a life insurance policy can provide a way to take care of these outstanding bills, along with any others like funeral expenses, legal fees, taxes, and medical expenses.
• Do you own a business? If so, you are liable for the debts your business owes. Your personal assets could be liquidated to pay these debts, which could leave little left for your family. Plus, if you have a partner, life insurance could help them buy out your portion of the business.
• Do you want to leave money to a charity? You can use life insurance to leave money to your favourite charity.
2. Who you would like to insure? You can get a policy on your own life, for other members of your family, or a joint one for you and your spouse.
3. What would you like your life insurance policy to achieve?Some of the things a life insurance policy can take care of include: pay funeral expenses, pay outstanding balances on your mortgage and other debts, offset the loss of your income for a period of time, and/or contribute to the future education of your children.
4. How much life insurance do you need? Well that will depend on what you would like your life insurance to accomplish. As a result, there is no one-size fits all answer. However, there are online life insurance calculator tools that can help. Life insurance calculators will help you find out roughly how much life insurance you'll need to have in order to ensure that your family, loved ones and your debts are looked after in the event of your death.
5. How long will you need life insurance for? Again, this is often determined by what you would like your life insurance to achieve. You can estimate the timing of your life insurance needs by asking yourself questions like: When will my mortgage be paid off, when will my children be finished school, and when will I retire? Also, there are online tools that after asking a few short questions will analyze your life insurance needs and offer guidance.
6. What type of life insurance do you need? There are two kinds of life insurance: term and permanent. Term life insurance offers protection for a set period of time, usually 10 to 20 years; while permanent insurance provides a lifetime of protection. Term insurance is more affordable than permanent insurance, offering you an opportunity to get a large amount of coverage at a lower cost. Permanent life insurance on the other hand is more expensive than term, as it offers lifetime coverage along with possible savings and investment options. The good news is if you want a permanent-style policy without the savings or investment options, you can go for a Term to 100 policy which offers coverage until age 100.
7. What medical information will you need to provide to obtain your policy? Typically, the more medical information you provide, the better the price. A life insurance policy that asks few or no medical questions will likely be far more expensive then a policy that asks for your medical information. Plus, depending on the insurer, your age, and the amount of coverage you want, you could be asked to provide blood or urine samples. For these, a nurse will visit, at no cost to you.
8. What are the renewal options and requirements of the policy? Most term policies are renewable until you reach the age of 70 or 75. Questions to ask your broker: will I have to take a medical to renew, is the renewal premium guaranteed, and if not how much can I expect my rate to increase at the time of renewal?
9. What are the conversion options and restrictions of the policy? As your life changes, you may want to convert your life insurance from term to permanent. When you purchase your policy, find out if there are any limitations for conversion, like age or into what type of permanent policy you can convert to – the fewer limitations the better.
10. What will the cost be? Well that depends on the individual. The best way to get the cheapest rate is to shop around. Thanks to the Internet, it is fast, free and easy to go to life insurance shopping comparison websites like Canada’s own www.kanetix.ca, to compare rates. By shopping online, you are sure to find the best deal on life insurance from many of Canada’s best-known life insurance carriers.
8 Reasons To Change Your Car Insurance Company
Auto insurance is not a luxury but a necessity. And in order to get the maximum advantage experts recommend that you should shop around for auto insurance every 2-3 years. As policies change and newer players enter the market there are so many new attractive auto insurance schemes that you could benefit from. You should consider changing your auto insurance when:
• You are availing a huge mortgage to buy property and the bank or institution offers you a lower interest rate on home and auto insurance through their tie –ups.
• You have moved to another state where the auto insurance rules are different and you will make a saving by transferring your insurance to a new car insurance company. Or when your old car insurance company does not offer service in your new state.
• You want to cut costs and are trying to run your life on a budget. Shop around online for competitive auto insurance rates and change the car insurance company to one who offers the best deal.
• You have purchased a new car and the dealer is offering free insurance for three years. New cars have lower insurance rates so it is best for you to do a comparative study and find a car insurance company that offers a great deal. Car insurance rates vary greatly between car brands and types; find out which car insurance company offers the maximum coverage for the lowest rate.
• You are getting married and now will have two cars. Think about cancelling your individual car insurance policies and getting a joint one for both cars. Similarly if your family is growing and you have many cars used by adults as well as kids, ask auto insurance companies about group insurance schemes that will cover all the cars and drivers in your home. Most companies offer great discounted rates for combining car insurance policies.
• You are retired and now a senior citizen. Car insurance companies offer discounts to those who are 55 and above. There are a great many discounts available for a car that has a good insurance claim record, a car that is not driven every day, and a car that is single driver driven and well maintained.
• You are eligible for coverage through your new job. Many large companies have facilities like auto insurance schemes at premium rates lower than the market. If you are working in such a firm then you must consider cancelling your old policy and taking a new one with the car insurance company chosen by your workplace.
• When the rates being paid by you are high and your car insurance company shows no inclination to offer you a competitive rate. If you are paying too much for car insurance its time you changed your car insurance company to one that is offering you great facilities and rates.
Whatever the reason to change your car insurance company, the World Wide Web has sites where you can compare offers as well as quotes. Sites like LowerMyBills.com give quote comparisons in a click. So, read all you can about car insurance and the companies and determine which car insurance company offer will suit you best.
• You are availing a huge mortgage to buy property and the bank or institution offers you a lower interest rate on home and auto insurance through their tie –ups.
• You have moved to another state where the auto insurance rules are different and you will make a saving by transferring your insurance to a new car insurance company. Or when your old car insurance company does not offer service in your new state.
• You want to cut costs and are trying to run your life on a budget. Shop around online for competitive auto insurance rates and change the car insurance company to one who offers the best deal.
• You have purchased a new car and the dealer is offering free insurance for three years. New cars have lower insurance rates so it is best for you to do a comparative study and find a car insurance company that offers a great deal. Car insurance rates vary greatly between car brands and types; find out which car insurance company offers the maximum coverage for the lowest rate.
• You are getting married and now will have two cars. Think about cancelling your individual car insurance policies and getting a joint one for both cars. Similarly if your family is growing and you have many cars used by adults as well as kids, ask auto insurance companies about group insurance schemes that will cover all the cars and drivers in your home. Most companies offer great discounted rates for combining car insurance policies.
• You are retired and now a senior citizen. Car insurance companies offer discounts to those who are 55 and above. There are a great many discounts available for a car that has a good insurance claim record, a car that is not driven every day, and a car that is single driver driven and well maintained.
• You are eligible for coverage through your new job. Many large companies have facilities like auto insurance schemes at premium rates lower than the market. If you are working in such a firm then you must consider cancelling your old policy and taking a new one with the car insurance company chosen by your workplace.
• When the rates being paid by you are high and your car insurance company shows no inclination to offer you a competitive rate. If you are paying too much for car insurance its time you changed your car insurance company to one that is offering you great facilities and rates.
Whatever the reason to change your car insurance company, the World Wide Web has sites where you can compare offers as well as quotes. Sites like LowerMyBills.com give quote comparisons in a click. So, read all you can about car insurance and the companies and determine which car insurance company offer will suit you best.
A Look at Life Insurance
Every year, billions of dollars is spent on life insurance. In today’s world, families are buying more life insurance that ever before. The demand for insurance has really made the cost for insurance to skyrocket. Since life insurance is needed by almost every family, the demand for life insurance will continue to increase.
Obviously, to some individuals, live insurance is a priority over other insurance like auto insurance, property insurance, etc. But what surprises me most is that the average insurance holder is not aware of how the insurance policy works. Probably, because insurance policies uses terms that are not familiar to the average person who needs insurance.
This not withstanding, millions of people keep on buying insurance. Many are aware of the importance of life insurance. We all need life insurance because of the uncertainty of life. We can not really predict what will happen in the next moment.
The basic truth about life insurance is that it can not insure a person against death but it can protect dependents of a death person against some economic losses resulting from the death of a bread winner in a family. Life insurance will ensure that the dependents of a dead person don’t suffer much loss.
The term life insurance doesn’t warrant that the insurance will cover one for a life time. Life insurance is similar to car insurance. The usual term policy can be five or ten years or more depending on the choice of an individual. If the insured person dies after the term is up, his family gets nothing
Obviously, to some individuals, live insurance is a priority over other insurance like auto insurance, property insurance, etc. But what surprises me most is that the average insurance holder is not aware of how the insurance policy works. Probably, because insurance policies uses terms that are not familiar to the average person who needs insurance.
This not withstanding, millions of people keep on buying insurance. Many are aware of the importance of life insurance. We all need life insurance because of the uncertainty of life. We can not really predict what will happen in the next moment.
The basic truth about life insurance is that it can not insure a person against death but it can protect dependents of a death person against some economic losses resulting from the death of a bread winner in a family. Life insurance will ensure that the dependents of a dead person don’t suffer much loss.
The term life insurance doesn’t warrant that the insurance will cover one for a life time. Life insurance is similar to car insurance. The usual term policy can be five or ten years or more depending on the choice of an individual. If the insured person dies after the term is up, his family gets nothing
Friday 18 January 2008
Dental Insurance : Necessary For Dental Care
Upon first hearing about it, many people think that dental insurance is a just another fad of the insurance companies who are just about to insure everything under the sun. After all, everything is subject to contingency. And dental problems catch up with most human beings sooner or later. Teeth have a certain lifespan. In fact, reports and WHO statistics confirm that tooth decay is the most common problem that humanity has to face. We all know how even a routine check-up can leave a hole in your pocket.
Yet so many of us like to think we are immune to dental problems. This could be a serious mistake. Teeth have a natural ageing process and often wrong eating habits, so typical of modern living, affect the health of our teeth. In fact, teeth can get sick so easily, if proper care is not taken. And when it starts to hurt, it can hurt badly, including your budget.
Teeth are not only aesthetically important but are so for the entire body, because the nutrition process begins from the mouth. The proper intake and digestion of food depends much on the condition of the teeth and which obviously affects the total condition of the mouth.
An insurance policy should be able to cover various costs, be it emergency costs such as dental injuries or preventive measures to protect your teeth or regular check-ups. This means the proper care of your dental health,
in every circumstance.
Types of dental insurance : Many insurance providers have an insurance policy to cover only a set limit, while others offer standalone insurance as also when sometimes, your insurance policy may only be a part of a cash plan. Your insurance plans can cover your entire family as well. This one makes good sense.
Before going for dental insurance, it is a good idea to check and compare the dental insurance plans and policies offered by various insurance agencies.
Yet so many of us like to think we are immune to dental problems. This could be a serious mistake. Teeth have a natural ageing process and often wrong eating habits, so typical of modern living, affect the health of our teeth. In fact, teeth can get sick so easily, if proper care is not taken. And when it starts to hurt, it can hurt badly, including your budget.
Teeth are not only aesthetically important but are so for the entire body, because the nutrition process begins from the mouth. The proper intake and digestion of food depends much on the condition of the teeth and which obviously affects the total condition of the mouth.
An insurance policy should be able to cover various costs, be it emergency costs such as dental injuries or preventive measures to protect your teeth or regular check-ups. This means the proper care of your dental health,
in every circumstance.
Types of dental insurance : Many insurance providers have an insurance policy to cover only a set limit, while others offer standalone insurance as also when sometimes, your insurance policy may only be a part of a cash plan. Your insurance plans can cover your entire family as well. This one makes good sense.
Before going for dental insurance, it is a good idea to check and compare the dental insurance plans and policies offered by various insurance agencies.
Life Insurance For Kids
It isn’t easy to take out a life insurance policy on a newborn child. It goes against the emotional grain of the first weeks and months of life when parents (and sometimes grandparents and siblings) dedicate their time and energy to protecting and nurturing the precious gift they have been given. Taking out an insurance policy on that cherished, new life seems akin to making a pact with the devil, betting on death. But children’s life insurance is not a wager against life; it is an investment in life. It can make a child’s life richer, fuller, and more secure.
With children’s life insurance, time is on your side. You have years—decades, really—to build a solid financial foundation for your children. Whole life insurance is a good tool to do this because it is simple and affordable.
A whole life insurance policy will insure a child for his or her entire life, and it will build cash value over the years. The cash value is the amount the insurance company will return to the policyholder in a lump sum, should he or she cancel the policy. Traditionally, the cash value of a whole life policy will equal the face value of the policy when the policyholder turns 100 years old. For example, a policy insuring a child for $35,000 would have a cash value of $35,000 on his or her 100th birthday.
The policy’s cash value is like equity in a home: The policyholder can use it for collateral on a loan. Some companies allow the policyholder to withdraw the cash value as a loan and then pay it back later. There is no application process for this withdrawal, so no chance of being turned down based on poor credit. It is a guaranteed asset.
By the time the child turns twenty, the cash value of a whole life policy will be roughly equal to the amount of the paid premiums. A $15,000 policy with a $10-a-month premium would have a cash value of about $2,400 after 20 years. You or your child may have the option of increasing the policy’s face value on certain anniversary dates, such as when the child turns 21, while maintaining the same monthly premium.
Keep in mind that the premium rates available after a child is born are the lowest you will ever see. Insurance rates increase with age, even for children. In addition, whole life premiums are locked in when you take out the policy. They will not go up as the child ages.
If you cannot afford a whole life policy, consider term life insurance. A term life insurance policy covers a set period of time and will not build cash value. On the positive side, however, term life is much less expensive than whole life. Its only purpose is to insure against unexpected death. This is not something anyone likes to think about, but consideration must be given to all the survivors, including siblings. Unpaid medical bills and funeral expenses will affect an entire family’s finances. Life insurance is a way of protecting the financial future of all the children in a family.
With children’s life insurance, time is on your side. You have years—decades, really—to build a solid financial foundation for your children. Whole life insurance is a good tool to do this because it is simple and affordable.
A whole life insurance policy will insure a child for his or her entire life, and it will build cash value over the years. The cash value is the amount the insurance company will return to the policyholder in a lump sum, should he or she cancel the policy. Traditionally, the cash value of a whole life policy will equal the face value of the policy when the policyholder turns 100 years old. For example, a policy insuring a child for $35,000 would have a cash value of $35,000 on his or her 100th birthday.
The policy’s cash value is like equity in a home: The policyholder can use it for collateral on a loan. Some companies allow the policyholder to withdraw the cash value as a loan and then pay it back later. There is no application process for this withdrawal, so no chance of being turned down based on poor credit. It is a guaranteed asset.
By the time the child turns twenty, the cash value of a whole life policy will be roughly equal to the amount of the paid premiums. A $15,000 policy with a $10-a-month premium would have a cash value of about $2,400 after 20 years. You or your child may have the option of increasing the policy’s face value on certain anniversary dates, such as when the child turns 21, while maintaining the same monthly premium.
Keep in mind that the premium rates available after a child is born are the lowest you will ever see. Insurance rates increase with age, even for children. In addition, whole life premiums are locked in when you take out the policy. They will not go up as the child ages.
If you cannot afford a whole life policy, consider term life insurance. A term life insurance policy covers a set period of time and will not build cash value. On the positive side, however, term life is much less expensive than whole life. Its only purpose is to insure against unexpected death. This is not something anyone likes to think about, but consideration must be given to all the survivors, including siblings. Unpaid medical bills and funeral expenses will affect an entire family’s finances. Life insurance is a way of protecting the financial future of all the children in a family.
What Is Private Mortgage Insurance?
One term that you hear thrown about these days in relation to home purchases is PMI, but not many people know that much about it. PMI stands for Private Mortgage Insurance and it is becoming ever more popular as home prices rise and buyers are having a more difficult time coming up with a down payment that lenders and banks require to purchase a home. Typically if a buyer does not have the 20% down payment that is usually required by lenders in order to finance a home they will request that a buyer obtains PMI in order to secure the loan. With so many buyers now purchasing homes with 0% or very little in terms of a down payment private mortgage insurance has established itself in the mortgage industry and looks to be settling in for the long haul.
Looking at current trends in real estate it appears that it is becoming more and more difficult to come up with a 20% down payment. Home prices are rising but wages are really not matching that increase. On a $200,000 home it can be pretty difficult to come up with the necessary down payment. Obtaining private mortgage insurance can help to solve this problem by supplying the additional funds needs to satisfy the bank or lender. By using this method the full down payment would be made and the home could be purchased. Typically the monthly PMI payments are made along with the mortgage payment and the funds are placed into escrow until such a time as the premiums need to be paid. In usual circumstances the PMI can be cancelled once the home owner acquires approximately 20% equity in their home.
This is not a typical home financing situation and has only come to prominence over the past few years as the ability to pull together large amounts of money has become more and more difficult. If you are able to secure normal financing then that is definitely your best course of action. The fewer hands that are in your financial cookie jar the better. But if you are unable to purchase a home due to lack of a down payment then consider the options that PMI can supply. It might just land you a home.
Looking at current trends in real estate it appears that it is becoming more and more difficult to come up with a 20% down payment. Home prices are rising but wages are really not matching that increase. On a $200,000 home it can be pretty difficult to come up with the necessary down payment. Obtaining private mortgage insurance can help to solve this problem by supplying the additional funds needs to satisfy the bank or lender. By using this method the full down payment would be made and the home could be purchased. Typically the monthly PMI payments are made along with the mortgage payment and the funds are placed into escrow until such a time as the premiums need to be paid. In usual circumstances the PMI can be cancelled once the home owner acquires approximately 20% equity in their home.
This is not a typical home financing situation and has only come to prominence over the past few years as the ability to pull together large amounts of money has become more and more difficult. If you are able to secure normal financing then that is definitely your best course of action. The fewer hands that are in your financial cookie jar the better. But if you are unable to purchase a home due to lack of a down payment then consider the options that PMI can supply. It might just land you a home.
Thursday 17 January 2008
Understanding the Features of Your Car Insurance
Many people think that when they buy a car that choosing their insurance coverage will be just as straightforward as finding the right car. The fact is that car insurance can actually be pretty complicated. Many people simply nod their head and make their monthly insurance payments but they don't really understand what their coverage offers them.
Car Insurance Basics
Liability coverage is likely to be offered when you buy your car insurance. This is the basic coverage that you will find with any insurance policy and basically what this coverage does is pay for the bodily injury and property damage that is caused to others involved in the accident that you are at fault for.
Together, bodily injury coverage and property damage pays for the medical bills, lost wages and repair or replacement of the property that you damaged. This coverage does not pay for the damage that happens to you or your vehicle.
Liability insurance is often broken down into numbers such as 20/40/10, which means that your coverage includes $20,000 in bodily injury, $40,000 in bodily injury per accident, and $10,000 in property damage coverage.
In case you cause an accident then in case of an collision or comprehensive coverage, the cost to repair your vehicle as well as the vehicles and people you injured in the accident are included. This does not happen in liability coverage. With this type of coverage you won't be able to receive more than the value of your car, but you will get something to put toward repairs or replacement of the vehicle.
This coverage is the most expensive one. But if you select to have a high deductible you will be able to keep your payments down and still have this coverage that you need if you are involved in an accident. People generally go in for comprehensive coverage and consider it is as the ideal coverage as it also covers the damages caused to your car such as fire, theft, natural disasters, and/or hitting animals in the road.
There are other coverage options that you might choose to make a part of your car insurance policy. One such option is medical payment coverage. This coverage will pay for your as well as your passengers medical expenses when you have been involved in an accident.
One of other options also include PIP (personal injury protection) coverage. This coverage can help pay for those medical expenses but will also help you if you are unable to work, unable to take care of your kids, or if you have to pay for a funeral.
Of the available coverages', uninsured or underinsured motorist's coverage is another type which you could purchase. This coverage will help you pay for damages if you are struck by an uninsured or underinsured individual.
Other options that you may want to consider are rental reimbursement if you have to rent a vehicle because yours is in need of repair or stolen, towing and labor coverage, and gap coverage, which is coverage that pays the difference between the cash that you receive for a total car and the amount left on the car loan. When you are in any these situations, the add on features can come in really handy.
Car Insurance Basics
Liability coverage is likely to be offered when you buy your car insurance. This is the basic coverage that you will find with any insurance policy and basically what this coverage does is pay for the bodily injury and property damage that is caused to others involved in the accident that you are at fault for.
Together, bodily injury coverage and property damage pays for the medical bills, lost wages and repair or replacement of the property that you damaged. This coverage does not pay for the damage that happens to you or your vehicle.
Liability insurance is often broken down into numbers such as 20/40/10, which means that your coverage includes $20,000 in bodily injury, $40,000 in bodily injury per accident, and $10,000 in property damage coverage.
In case you cause an accident then in case of an collision or comprehensive coverage, the cost to repair your vehicle as well as the vehicles and people you injured in the accident are included. This does not happen in liability coverage. With this type of coverage you won't be able to receive more than the value of your car, but you will get something to put toward repairs or replacement of the vehicle.
This coverage is the most expensive one. But if you select to have a high deductible you will be able to keep your payments down and still have this coverage that you need if you are involved in an accident. People generally go in for comprehensive coverage and consider it is as the ideal coverage as it also covers the damages caused to your car such as fire, theft, natural disasters, and/or hitting animals in the road.
There are other coverage options that you might choose to make a part of your car insurance policy. One such option is medical payment coverage. This coverage will pay for your as well as your passengers medical expenses when you have been involved in an accident.
One of other options also include PIP (personal injury protection) coverage. This coverage can help pay for those medical expenses but will also help you if you are unable to work, unable to take care of your kids, or if you have to pay for a funeral.
Of the available coverages', uninsured or underinsured motorist's coverage is another type which you could purchase. This coverage will help you pay for damages if you are struck by an uninsured or underinsured individual.
Other options that you may want to consider are rental reimbursement if you have to rent a vehicle because yours is in need of repair or stolen, towing and labor coverage, and gap coverage, which is coverage that pays the difference between the cash that you receive for a total car and the amount left on the car loan. When you are in any these situations, the add on features can come in really handy.
A Quick Guide to Mortgage Protection Insurance
Mortgage protection insurance is a form of insurance that has become more popular in recent years. This insurance can cover injury, illness, and even death, and helps to make sure that you and your family won't fall behind on mortgage payments should the unexpected happen. There are several different types of mortgage protection insurance offered by a number of different insurance agencies, so if you have been considering purchasing this insurance then it's important that you take the time to know exactly what it is that you're buying before you sign on the dotted line.
What Mortgage Protection Insurance Is
Mortgage protection insurance is a specialized type of life, health, or disability insurance that focuses not on funeral or medical expenses but instead on making sure that your mortgage payment doesn't fall behind. Different insurance providers may provide different payout options or benefits packages, but the end result is that if you are injured, fall sick to the point that you cannot work, or are killed, then the insurance payout is sent to you, your family, or in some cases to the mortgage provider directly to ensure that your house or other mortgaged real estate doesn't run the risk of foreclosure.
Knowing How Your Insurance Works
It is important that you understand exactly how different types of insurance work so you can choose whether this insurance would be in your best interest. Since there are different types of mortgage protection insurance different insurance providers may pay out differently
Mortgage protection insurance that is sold as health or accident insurance is designed to provide short-term relief while you recover in order to help keep you from falling behind on your mortgage in the time that you are unable to work. There is often a limit as to how long you will continue to receive payments from this insurance, and depending upon the policy it may be as short as three months or as long as six months to a year or more.
Mortgage protection insurance that is sold as a form of life insurance is designed to help your family pay off the mortgage in the event that you should pass away. This insurance works much like any other life insurance, though in some cases it may be paid directly to the bank or mortgage lender specified in the policy. More often, however, the policy simply pays out to your family so that they can pay the mortgage as well as use some of the money to cover funeral costs or other expenses.
Costs, Benefits, and Potential Problems
The cost of mortgage protection insurance tends to be in line with other forms of disability or life insurance, though that cost will obviously vary depending upon your personal medical history, habits and the insurance agency who you buy it from. Likewise, the benefits of the insurance are quite similar to other types of insurance that fill the same general role. Mortgage protection insurance serves as security to help make sure that you're going to be able to make all of your payments even if something unexpected or tragic happens; in some cases you may even be able to lock in a lower interest rate for having the insurance as it serves as an additional guarantee to your mortgage lender.
Unlike some of these other insurance types, however, some mortgage protection insurance policies can be very specific about the payouts that they make and the circumstances that they will pay out under. It's very important that you take the time to make sure that you understand the specific policy that you're considering before you buy it in order to make sure that the insurance company is going to pay out the money that you or your family needs when they need it.
Finding the Best Deal
If you have decided to purchase mortgage protection insurance it's important that you locate the insurance provider that will not only offer you the policy that you want but also will give you a good deal on that policy. Take the time to shop around both at insurance agencies in your area as well as online to see which places offer mortgage protection policies and the prices that they are willing to offer you for them. Collect quotes from several different agencies and websites, comparing the amount of coverage that each provides, the circumstances that they'll pay out under, and the overall price that it will cost you per month or per payment period for the insurance. If buying a life insurance option, talk it over with your spouse or family to get their input on it. Ideally you're going to want to find the best balance between price and coverage that you can.
What Mortgage Protection Insurance Is
Mortgage protection insurance is a specialized type of life, health, or disability insurance that focuses not on funeral or medical expenses but instead on making sure that your mortgage payment doesn't fall behind. Different insurance providers may provide different payout options or benefits packages, but the end result is that if you are injured, fall sick to the point that you cannot work, or are killed, then the insurance payout is sent to you, your family, or in some cases to the mortgage provider directly to ensure that your house or other mortgaged real estate doesn't run the risk of foreclosure.
Knowing How Your Insurance Works
It is important that you understand exactly how different types of insurance work so you can choose whether this insurance would be in your best interest. Since there are different types of mortgage protection insurance different insurance providers may pay out differently
Mortgage protection insurance that is sold as health or accident insurance is designed to provide short-term relief while you recover in order to help keep you from falling behind on your mortgage in the time that you are unable to work. There is often a limit as to how long you will continue to receive payments from this insurance, and depending upon the policy it may be as short as three months or as long as six months to a year or more.
Mortgage protection insurance that is sold as a form of life insurance is designed to help your family pay off the mortgage in the event that you should pass away. This insurance works much like any other life insurance, though in some cases it may be paid directly to the bank or mortgage lender specified in the policy. More often, however, the policy simply pays out to your family so that they can pay the mortgage as well as use some of the money to cover funeral costs or other expenses.
Costs, Benefits, and Potential Problems
The cost of mortgage protection insurance tends to be in line with other forms of disability or life insurance, though that cost will obviously vary depending upon your personal medical history, habits and the insurance agency who you buy it from. Likewise, the benefits of the insurance are quite similar to other types of insurance that fill the same general role. Mortgage protection insurance serves as security to help make sure that you're going to be able to make all of your payments even if something unexpected or tragic happens; in some cases you may even be able to lock in a lower interest rate for having the insurance as it serves as an additional guarantee to your mortgage lender.
Unlike some of these other insurance types, however, some mortgage protection insurance policies can be very specific about the payouts that they make and the circumstances that they will pay out under. It's very important that you take the time to make sure that you understand the specific policy that you're considering before you buy it in order to make sure that the insurance company is going to pay out the money that you or your family needs when they need it.
Finding the Best Deal
If you have decided to purchase mortgage protection insurance it's important that you locate the insurance provider that will not only offer you the policy that you want but also will give you a good deal on that policy. Take the time to shop around both at insurance agencies in your area as well as online to see which places offer mortgage protection policies and the prices that they are willing to offer you for them. Collect quotes from several different agencies and websites, comparing the amount of coverage that each provides, the circumstances that they'll pay out under, and the overall price that it will cost you per month or per payment period for the insurance. If buying a life insurance option, talk it over with your spouse or family to get their input on it. Ideally you're going to want to find the best balance between price and coverage that you can.
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