Friday, August 25, 2017

Navigating Insurance



                  It is daunting and nerve-racking. Terms are confusing and scary. Insurance is something we all need, but most don’t fully understand. We spoke with Jenifer Thorpe, office manager of the Lori Stushek Agency, LLC with American Family Insurance in the Eau Claire, Wisconsin office, on how to get started with the process to understand what is best for you.
Most people are primarily price driven. When Jenifer gets clients in the office, the first question she asks is what they are looking for with their insurance policy. That is a question that we should all think about when seeking an agent.
There are frequent instances where the client doesn’t know the answer to that question. You want to consider what it is you want your legacy to be. What are things that are important to you in your personal life and with your business interactions.
Having an agency that takes care of you is a must. You can always find an internet-based company, but they won’t have someone to sit down with you at an office and discuss all aspects of your life. You truly never know what you are buying.
So, when you find an agent that has longevity and experience, the fact that they are local and well known, you know that you have found something special.
Meeting in person usually makes it easier for your agent to explain your policy to you. Most agencies are very flexible when it comes to meeting with their clients. But if you prefer to chat over the phone or via email, all policies can be explained that way. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions you don’t understand.
Every company policy is different, so there isn’t one major aspect you as a policy holder should know. Find out the details that matter most to you, and review them with your agent.
At least once a year, you should talk with your insurance agency to review your coverage. This typically shouldn’t take more than fifteen minutes to a half hour to stay up to date.
If you change anything throughout the year, contact your insurance agent immediately. Home improvements, marital status, births and adoptions, and/or new drivers all fit the bill.
The one policy that most people don’t realize is out there is the umbrella policy. This is a blanket coverage of all your other insurance plans. The main purpose of this policy is to help protect you from any major liability losses, but also holds other coverage options.
Life insurance is the most overlooked policy out there. There are different reasons why people don’t buy life insurance. Many people believe it is too expensive to purchase. Or they think that their life insurance through work is sufficient; which is typically not the case.
The importance of life insurance is the legacy it leaves. It benefits your loved ones with everything that you have worked for throughout your life. It will provide them with the life that you have hoped and dreamed for them, along with paying for final expenses. It is important for you to get life insurance if you do not already have a policy, or to take out an additional policy through your agent even if you have coverage through work. Life insurance does more than pay for funeral expenses; it can help pay for children’s education and pay off debt.
Agents understand that price is important to their clients. But they also look into what will fully cover your needs and what is best for you and your family’s dreams. IA

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