Jacob Eastlick

Storm Damage & Homeowners Insurance: 5 Things You Need to Know

By Jacob Eastlick on February 26, 2021 0

Piles of mangled siding and shingles litter the once lively neighborhoods. You can’t help but ask yourself, how will they ever recover?

Rebuilding after storm damage is no small feat and insurance is often what makes it possible. Here are five things you need to know about your home insurance when it comes to storm damage.

1. Your homeowners insurance may not cover water damage

Water damage can devastate a home, especially after a storm. But, most homeowners insurance policies only cover certain types of water damage.

One of the major differences is how the water gets inside your house.

Water damage that originates inside your home or from a storm-created opening is typically covered by home insurance.

Examples may include:

An overflowing washing machine
A burst interior pipe
Rainwater that enters your home through openings storm winds create

This is helpful for most household accidents and some storms, but not in the event of flooding.

Water damage from outside your home is usually not covered by home insurance.

Examples may include:

Floodwater
A broken water main
Water that enters your home through manufactured openings

Unfortunately, these are the types of damages you will most likely have after a storm.

To cover these damages, you may need to add flood insurance to your home insurance policy. To add flood insurance to your home policy, talk to your local insurance agent.

Even if you don’t live in a flood zone, it’s a good idea to add flood insurance and it’s usually very affordable. If you do live in a flood zone, you will want to make sure you have the coverage.

2. If your insurance claim is denied you may qualify for government assistance, like FEMA

If the government declares your town a federal disaster area, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) may provide disaster relief.

To qualify, you will first need to submit an insurance claim. If your insurance company approves your claim, they will pay it, not FEMA.
If your insurance doesn’t cover the damages, the insurance company will deny your claim. This is where FEMA steps in.
Next, you need to submit the FEMA paperwork and documentation, which you can complete online. You will need to include a formal denial of your claim from the insurance company.
Your agent will be able to provide you with formal denial paperwork to meet FEMA’s requirements.
FEMA may provide compensation for most of your damages if your insurance doesn’t cover it.

3. You can save money with a common loss deductible

If you experience a severe storm, chances are that more than your home will have damage.

What about your car?

How about your belongings boxed up in the basement?

Different insurance policies cover these items. In the past, this meant you paid multiple deductibles. Now, most insurance companies, including Auto-Owners Insurance, offer a common loss deductible.

A common loss deductible reduces the amount you pay on your claim(s) if the damage arises from a single storm or disaster.

4. If somebody else’s property damages your house during a storm, you are likely still responsible

What happens if your neighbor’s tree falls onto your house and damages your roof during a severe storm? Or, what if your fence blows over and dents your neighbor’s car during a period of high wind? Who is responsible?

The general rule for insurance is that your property is your responsibility. This usually includes trees that fall onto your property.

So, if a neighbor’s tree damages your property during a storm you are responsible. Your home insurance policy will most likely cover your damages.

But, things may change if the tree is dead or dying before the storm. In that situation, the owner of the tree may be responsible for your damages.

5. Your house must be “unfit to live in” to receive reimbursement for temporary relocation

After severe storm damage, your home may be unsafe to live in. If this is the case, your home is “unfit to live in”.

“Unfit to live in” means you and your family cannot safely stay in the home.

Determining if your home is unsafe after a severe storm can be difficult. Most claims departments try to determine whether a home is fit to live in on a case-by-case basis.

For example, if your roof blows away in strong winds, your home may be unsafe. But, if your basement floods and needs time to dry, you may be able to safely stay in your home.

If your home is unfit to live in, some home insurance policies cover the cost of temporary relocation and other living expenses. This may include living expenses you incur during your home repairs or until you find a new house.

You may need to make the decision to temporarily leave your home before talking with your insurance company. If you do leave your home, make an honest assessment to determine if it’s unfit to live in – especially if you expect your insurance company to pay for your expenses.

Get Started: Find a local, independent insurance agent to review your storm damage coverage.

Examining your current insurance coverages for potential gaps is critical. Talk with your local, independent insurance agent before disaster strikes to prepare your family.

Disclaimer: The analysis of coverage is in general terms and is superseded in all respects by the Insuring Agreements, Endorsements, Exclusions, Terms and Conditions of the Policy. Some of the coverage mentioned in this material may not be applicable in all states or may have to be modified to conform to applicable state law. Some coverages may have been eliminated or modified since the publishing of this material. Please check with your local Independent Auto-Owners Insurance Agent for details.

Spring Cleaning Checklist: The Ultimate Guide to a Tidier Home

By Jacob Eastlick on February 26, 2021 0

By Jessica Bennett

Updated March 05, 2020

Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.

farmer sink and white cabinets in modern farmhouse

CREDIT: LAURA MOSS

Welcome spring by giving your home a good deep clean. Our handy guide breaks down the must-do chores into a three-step system. First up are the spring cleaning checklist and to-dos, the once-a-year tasks perfectly suited for spring. Next, tackle exterior spring cleaning with tips on fix-ups and repairs for the outside of your home. Finally, room-by-room cleaning tips will help you declutter and tidy up specific must-hit areas.

START SLIDESHOW

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Spring Cleaning List

CREDIT: KIM CORNELISON PHOTOGRAPHY INC.

Spring is the perfect time to or embark on an apartment-cleaning marathon. Work these chores into your cleaning schedule this spring and get ready to face warmer days with a space that sparkles. Before you tackle your deep cleaning, make a cleaning checklist tailored to your home and needs.

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Spring Cleaning Checklist and To-Dos: Wash Windows

CREDIT: FRANCES JANISCH

Be sure to pick a cloudy day to . “If it’s too sunny, the cleaning solution will dry too fast and you’ll have streaks,” says . Water and a microfiber cloth will typically clean windows more effectively than chemicals. Otherwise, make your own glass cleaner solution with 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol, 1/3 cup vinegar, and distilled water.

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Spring Cleaning Checklist and To-Dos: Sliding Door Tracks

CREDIT: PETER KRUMHARDT

Sliding glass door tracks probably aren’t the first spots you’d think to clean, but you’ll appreciate having done it before the outdoor entertaining season gets into full swing. Smallin suggests scrubbing the tracks with an old, dry toothbrush to loosen debris, then using your vacuum hose to remove it. Finish with a wet sponge.

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Spring Cleaning Checklist and To-Dos: Overlooked Surfaces

CREDIT: GORDON BEALL

Spring cleaning is an opportunity to address those surfaces you overlook on a daily basis. Once a year, give your baseboards, door frames, and . Wash them with a sponge and a squirt of dishwashing liquid mixed in a bucket of warm water.

FIND YOUR DECORATING PERSONALITY!

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Spring Cleaning Checklist and To-Dos: Deep-Clean Carpets

CREDIT: EDMUND BARR

To maintain a new carpet’s warranty, you may need to have it cleaned professionally every 12-18 months, Smallin says. Otherwise, you can tackle by renting a deep cleaner or buying a professional-style model designed for home use. Follow the directions for mixing the cleaning solution, rinsing, and drying carefully to ensure you get the best clean.

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Spring Cleaning Checklist and To-Dos: Freshen Furniture

CREDIT: ERIN KUNKEL

Restore smooth leather with an upholstery cleaner and conditioner. Use a suede brush to perk up nubuck leather. For wood furniture, use Smallin’s recipe to make your own all-natural cleaner and polish: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil and 1/2 cup of vinegar or lemon juice in a plastic spray bottle; shake well and spray onto a microfiber cloth.

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Spring Cleaning Checklist and To-Dos: Dust Light Fixtures

CREDIT: BRIE WILLIAMS

Use a to dust fixtures and bulbs you can reach. For ceiling fans, skip the ladder and use an . To clean grimy bulbs, lightly dampen a cloth with vinegar and wipe. Caution: Be sure bulbs are cool to the touch and your hands are dry. Tackle light fixtures before cleaning the rest of the room, so any errant falling dust doesn’t disrupt already-clean surfaces.

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Spring Cleaning Checklist and To-Dos: Get Organized

CREDIT: DAVID A LAND

Pick up and before you start cleaning. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by clutter, designate some organizing “power sessions” in your spring cleaning schedule. As you declutter, equip yourself with a few boxes for sorting: one for garage sale items, another for items to donate, and a garbage bag for items to toss. Put away the things you intend to keep in their rightful places and rooms.

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Spring Cleaning Checklist and To-Dos: Make a Wardrobe Transition

CREDIT: MARTY BALDWIN

Storing items you aren’t currently wearing or using in a tucked-away place will help and keep seasonal essentials at the forefront. Put away gloves, winter clothing items, and boots so you’ll have plenty of space for spring clothing. Always label bins and boxes so you know where to find your winter gear next year.

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Spring Cleaning Checklist and To-Dos: Safety Inspection

CREDIT: HELEN NORMAN

Consider spring cleaning your prompt to check the batteries in your smoke and . Perform all required safety checks around your home. If you don’t own a fire extinguisher, purchase one. Learn how to use it, and . You may also want to purchase one for your garage.

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Exterior Spring Cleaning Tips: Exterior Paint

CREDIT: CAMERON SADEGHPOUR

While you’re spring cleaning, consider freshening the face of your home with a . An can take your house from forgettable to the best on the block. The average exterior paint job lasts 10 years, so make sure it’s done right. If your house doesn’t require a full paint makeover, consider a touch-up, which can prolong the life of your siding and trim.

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Room-by-Room Cleaning Tips: Bedrooms

CREDIT: GREG SCHEIDEMANN

Devote a portion of your spring cleaning efforts to giving every room in your home a thorough cleaning. In the bedroom, rotate and flip mattresses. Wash blankets and comforters, or take them to be cleaned. Wash mattress pads and bed skirts. or have them dry-cleaned. To , send them to a professional cleaner, hang them outside in the fresh air, or freshen them with the air (no heat) cycle of your clothes dryer

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Room-by-Room Cleaning Tips: Kitchen

CREDIT: LAURA MOSS

To , take time to declutter your pantry, , and drawers. Wipe them out and install fresh shelf paper. Store or donate equipment you don’t use, such as small appliances or cookware. Discard . and freezer. Vacuum the cooling coils under or behind your refrigerator.

Life Insurance From Your Employer Usually Isn’t Enough

By Jacob Eastlick on February 4, 2021 0

considering life insurance from your employer

Life insurance from your employer is a valued benefit for millions of American workers.

Employer life insurance is a form of group life insurance that’s offered to you and your coworkers. It’s typically a set dollar amount at smaller companies and a multiple of your salary at larger companies. The multiple is commonly one to three times your current salary.

The Benefits of Employer Life Insurance

It costs you nothing (or very little). A big upside to life insurance from your employer is that it’s usually free. And if there is a cost, it usually only amounts to a few dollars a month.

You don’t have to take a medical exam. Life insurance from your employer is typically offered to every employee regardless of his or her health status. This can be a big plus if you have any health conditions. A health condition can make it difficult to get a life insurance policy on your own.

It’s convenient. There’s no need to consider multiple quotes, schedule a medical exam, or do any other legwork. You usually only have to fill out a form or two and designate a beneficiary.

The Downsides of Employer Life Insurance

It often falls short of how much coverage you really need. Most people need much more than one, two or even three times their annual salary in coverage to secure their family’s financial future. In fact, insurance professionals recommend having 10 to 15 times your annual income in coverage. This is especially true if you have dependents and/or debt. For this reason, it’s best to assume that life insurance from your employer probably isn’t nearly enough.

Supplemental coverage can be more expensive than buying your own policy. You often have the option to buy additional coverage through your employer-based policy. While this can be a convenient option, it may cost more than if you worked with an insurance advisor or agent to buy your own life insurance policy.

Your options are limited. You usually don’t have the range of policy options you’d have if you worked with an insurance advisor or agent.

Your employer can drop it at any time. You lose your coverage as soon as your company decides to drop it. And that’s more common now that fewer companies are choosing to offer or retain their group life insurance these days.

It’s tied to your employment status. You also automatically lose your coverage if you switch jobs, retire or become laid off. When this happens, you would need to go out and buy your own coverage. That can be more difficult as you get older or if you developed a health condition.

You may not be able to convert your supplemental insurance. Not all employer life insurance policies let you convert your supplemental life policy when you leave the company. If you can convert the policy when you leave, expect to pay a rate increase.

Exploring Options Beyond Employer Life Insurance

The potential downsides of employer life insurance often outweigh the advantages. Out of all the disadvantages, the biggest one is mistakenly believing that life insurance from your employer provides enough coverage for you and your loved ones.

Make sure you have all the coverage you really need by working with an insurance advisor or agent. He or she can calculate how much coverage you really need. (You can also use our Life Insurance Needs Calculator to get a quick estimate.) An easy way to find a qualified insurance professional in your community is to use our Agent Locator.

Once you know how much coverage you need, it’s time to compare costs. Review quotes from your insurance advisor or agent alongside the supplemental insurance quote. Know that it may be worth it to pay more for your own portable, flexible policy that you own and control.

In closing, employer life insurance is a great starting point. But it almost never gives you enough protection. So take the time to figure how much coverage you really need and to consider getting your own policy.

by Amanda Austin | October 29, 2020 | Life Insurance

Amanda Austin

Amanda Austin is a freelance writer who has worked in the insurance industry. She lives in Erie, Penn., and holds the CPCU, AINS, and AIS designations.

4 Steps You Can Take to Feel More in Control Now

By Jacob Eastlick on February 3, 2021 0

COVID-19 has upended life as we know it for millions of people around the world. Many of us—including the young and healthy—are seriously contemplating our mortality for the first time.

As the parent of a toddler, with a baby on the way, I’m definitely in this camp. It’s deeply unsettling to ponder how this virus has cut short so many lives in the span of just a few months.

I can’t escape the reality that I’m not invincible and never really have been. Whether it’s an accident, a terminal illness or an infectious disease, untimely deaths happen and none of us are assured a long, healthy life.

That thought paralyzed me before I decided to take a proactive approach to things. The good news is that there are concrete actions you can take today to protect the ones you love and get some peace of mind during these challenging times. Here are four definitely worth doing.

1. Prepare your will. Not even half of Americans have a will, which is a legal document that spells out your wishes for where your assets go and who cares for any minor children in the event you pass away. If you die without a will, your individual state’s laws will decide where your money and belongings go and who takes care of your kids. As if that isn’t bad enough, dying without a will generally delays the process of resolving your estate and can subject it to additional taxes.

Spare your loved ones from this experience with a will. Many people use a lawyer to draw up a will, especially if they have large or complicated estates. These days, many lawyers can help you via email, phone and teleconference, so don’t let social distancing stop you from getting a will.

Another option is to create a will online. This is a fast and inexpensive option for anyone on a budget or with uncomplicated needs. A few popular resources include LegalZoom, Quicken WillMaker & Trust and Do Your Own Will. (The final option is free!)

2. Create an advanced directive. An advanced directive is another legal document you’ll want to lock down. It explains what kind of medical care you’d want in the event you can’t speak for yourself.

The most common types of advanced directives are the living will and the durable power of attorney. A living will spells out your health care wishes in the event you’re terminally ill and unable to express your wishes or permanently unconscious. Meanwhile, a durable power of attorney is a document in which you name a trusted person to make health care decisions for you in the event you’re unable to do so.

An attorney can help you create an advanced directive or you can create one for free online using a form from your state. (Check your state’s website for its individual form.) If you go the latter route, make sure to check your state’s laws about advanced directives. Some require you to sign them in the presence of a witness, while others require them to be notarized. (And yes, you can now get documents notarized online through services like notarize.com.)

3. Look into life insurance. If anyone depends on your earnings or unpaid labor (I’m looking at you, stay-at-home parents and caregivers), it’s absolutely essential to have at least some life insurance in place. From funeral costs to the mortgage to everyday living expenses, life insurance steps in to smooth things over financially if you aren’t in the picture.

I know the last thing many of us want right now is an added expense. But this is one well worth having—and it’s probably a lot less than you think. A healthy 30-year-old can get a $250,000 20-year level term policy for just $13 a month.

Any amount of life insurance is better than none at all, so contact an agent today to get a policy that works for your life and budget. (Like lawyers and notaries, many of them can work with you over phone, email and teleconferencing tools!)

4. Consider disability insurance. Illnesses and injuries curtail many people’s careers and lifetime earnings unexpectedly every year. With respect to the current crisis, those hospitalized for COVID-19 often have long roads to recovery as well as lifelong complications. Whether the health challenge leads to short-term or permanent consequences, it’s hard to stay on top of bills when your paycheck stops.

This is where disability insurance can be a lifesaver. This “insurance for your paycheck” protects your income until you’re able to return to work. Like life insurance, there are policies for every situation and budget. Learn about the three main ways to get disability coverage.

I’m the first to admit that contemplating these realities isn’t a fun way to pass the time. But something far worse is knowing that the people I love the most would be in a bind if the unthinkable happened. Plus, tackling these to-do’s gave me a much-needed sense of control during these unpredictable times—I hope it does the same for you, too.

Amanda Austin

Amanda Austin is a freelance writer who has worked in the insurance industry. She lives in Erie, Penn., and holds the CPCU, AINS, and AIS designations.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2021!

By Jacob Eastlick on December 29, 2020 0

We will be out of the office for the New Year’s holiday from 3:00 pm, 12/31 and will return on Monday, January 4 at 7:30 am. We have a 24/7 answering service available for emergencies.

While this year has proved challenging, we could not be more thankful for your business. I wish you all the best in the New Year!

How To Do Christmas Shopping On a Budget

By Jacob Eastlick on December 15, 2020 0

A Christmas budget can feel like a real drag on your holiday spirit.

But, you know what? It doesn’t have to be.

Think about it this way: when you budget, you’re being intentional. This makes your approach to shopping more meaningful and less stressful.

Don’t think less of your generosity just because you’re on a budget.

You can do Christmas on a budget and here’s how:

1. Set a budget with categories and tracking

It may seem obvious, but decide on a specific dollar amount you can spend. Remember to include all holiday expenditures, for example:

Gifts
Food
Travel
Christmas cards
Home décor items
Gift wrapping
Personal items (like that cute reindeer outfit for your little one)

Once you set up your cost categories, determine how you will track what you spend. Some ideas include:

The envelope system, which is where you put the cash for each category in its own envelope and use that cash to shop
Phone apps for budgeting
A digital or paper spreadsheet

Choose a method you know you can maintain.

2. Do not open a new line of credit

Don’t do it. Opening a new credit card to cover your holiday costs only prolongs the financial stress.

Instead, see what “credit” you may already have.

No, not credit cards.

By “credit” we mean store points you may have forgotten about, coupons you saved, or old gift cards. Don’t forget to check with your phone and utility companies. Some award on-time bill payments with points or rewards.

You may be surprised!

3. Make a master Christmas shopping list

A master list will help you identify the items you’re shopping for, not just the people. It will also help you determine what stores you need to watch for sales. Putting together your list should take more time than the actual shopping!

Your master Christmas shopping list should include:

Names of all the people you’re gifting
Gift ideas for each person
- If you’re not sure, ask them! It’s important to get a list of actual items.
The store(s) where you can buy the gifts for each person
- Include several options. If you see a store on your list multiple times you should watch that store for sales.
The amount you plan to spend on each individual
How you will be giving them their gift. If you’re planning to mail their present, account for the shipping cost!
Any supplies you may need to send Christmas cards or ship gifts and where you can buy them
Ingredients for the food you plan to bake and where you can buy them
Decorations you may want for your home and the stores where you may purchase them

Revisit your list often. A simple checklist on your phone is a great way to keep your list accessible and organized.

4. Suggest a gift drawing rather than buying for everybody

Are you looking at your list and thinking, Even if I buy a candy cane for all these people I’ll be over budget? Then it’s time to refine your list.

Propose a ”Secret Santa” game where everybody buys one present and plays a game to swap gifts.
Have everybody draw a name. When you’re only buying for the person you draw, it helps you save money and get to know them better.
Do a combination. Does your family have lots of little ones? You could draw names for the kids and do a “Secret Santa” game for the adults.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to set a price limit for the drawing! This will avoid awkward gift imbalances and keep you on budget.

5. Consider shopping used

Secondhand stores have so many gift options! Oftentimes, you can find items that don’t appear used for a fraction of the price!

Not keen on shopping in the store? There are several ways to secondhand shop online, including:

Online thrift shops
Facebook Marketplace
Local garage sale groups on Facebook
Craigslist

Around the holidays, these stores and sites usually have an influx of items. This is because people are cleaning and going through old toys. All to your advantage!

6. Homemade Christmas gifts

Homemade is a nice alternative to store-bought gifts and is usually easier on the budget. You can start your search online using websites like Pinterest.

Check out our Pinterest board for ideas, here!

Find a project you are confident you can complete efficiently and within your budget. Review the instructions before you commit, just to be sure.

7. Use social media ads to your advantage

There are four ways you can make online ads support your budget and even score deals!

Change your ad preferences in the settings of the social media platforms you use. You can opt to hide ads from stores you know you are likely to impulse buy from.
Cut out the temptation!
Follow the stores you see recurring on your shopping list. Turn on all notifications for their pages. This will ensure you know about their sales.
Search for store hashtags! Sometimes companies collaborate with social media influencers to distribute discount codes. An influencer (a social media user with lots of followers) will feature a store or product in their post and include a discount code in their caption. Search for a store’s hashtag and read a few captions to see if there are any active discount codes.
If you’re not in a time crunch, this hack may score you an extra discount. When shopping online, load your cart with items, and then leave the site. This may prompt the website to send you ads via an email, Google, or social media that offer you a discount if you come back to finish your purchase!

8. Generate some extra cash

If your budget still feels tight, you can try to generate some cash for your Christmas fund. Some easy ways to do this include:

Find things you don’t use anymore and sell them online!
Consider short-term, seasonal or freelance jobs.

Giving is all about the intentionality behind it. You’re planning, making a budget and sticking to it which are all admirable intentions. You’ve got this!

SOURCE: Auto Owners Blog, posted on December 15,2020.