Insurance Basics

This section is intended to give you some helpful hints when shopping for insurance. This page in no way represents all of the things you will have to consider when purchasing an insurance policy. THAT'S WHY YOU USE A PERSONAL AGENT!

Life Insurance

1. Ask about convertible term insurance. Consider buying term, then converting to whole life once you have the money or interest to do so.
2. You'll get a better rate as a nonsmoker. If your policy was rated as a smoker, stop smoking for 13 months (keep the policy in force) then you may be able to apply for nonsmoker rate.
3. Consider level term. It has a fixed payment for a set number of years.
4. If you are purchasing whole life, consider a 'blended' policy with part term and whole life mixed. (Ask your agent about blended life insurance)
5. Thoroughly research your life insurance company. You can use:
• Standard and Poor's
• Our insurance forums

Car Insurance

1. Be sure to ask about all available vehicle discounts.
2. Take a defensive driving course. It could lower your premiums.
3. Drive SAFELY!
4. Be accurate about mileage estimates on the application.
5. Ask about affinity discounts. (Sam's club, AAA, etc.)
6. Thoroughly research your insurance company. You can use:
   • Standard and Poor's
   • Our insurance forums

Home Insurance

1. Be sure to ask about all available discounts.
2. Be sure that your home is insured to its value.
3. Be thorough. Ask about the need for flood, wind, or other types of additional coverage.
4. If your older home has been renovated, tell your agent. You could qualify for a discount.
5. Thoroughly research your home insurance company. You can use:
• Standard and Poor's
• Our insurance forums

Health Insurance

1. Consider a higher deductible or CO-payment, if you are interested in lowering your monthly premiums.
2. Find a group insurance plan.
3. Consider one of the many 'discount' health programs. If you cannot get health insurance for some reason, These types of plans can save you some money.
4. Thoroughly research your life insurance company. You can use:
• Standard and Poor's
• Our insurance forums

Business Insurance

1. See if there are any special niche products for your type of business.
2. Investigate. Many times, there are insurance companies that specialize in your needs.
3. Be sure that you only pay for a policy that covers the needs of your business.
4. Thoroughly research your insurance company. You can use:
• Standard and Poor's
• Our insurance forums

Long term Care Insurance

1. Pick a daily benefit based on where you live.
2. Buy coverage when you are younger. Premiums will be lower.
3. Consider a longer waiter period.
4. Thoroughly research your insurance company. You can use:
• Standard and Poor's
• Our insurance forums

In conclusion, there are many ways to lower your insurance. As with your taxes, an accountant is usually the best answer. With insurance, a personal agent is your best answer!.

Use our insurance company directory to locate information regarding a specific company.

Compare your insurance rates today.