Insurance

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  • 6 Myths About Buying Life Insurance

    INSURANCE - Yahoo! News Search Results
    24 May 2013 | 12:38 pm
    Are you mistaken about life insurance costs, benefits and limits? Get the facts here.

  • Is Your McMansion Killing You?

    Home Insurance Blog
    admin
    29 Apr 2013 | 2:38 pm
    Bigger homes should make us happier, right? Maybe not. Since 1950, the size of an average home in the U.S. has more than doubled. But we’re spending less time in them, working more to pay them off and – to top it off – sleeping less. Check out how we’ve become fatter, poorer and sleepier despite all the upgrades in our homes. Embed This Image On Your Site (copy code below): <div style="clear:both"><a href="http://homeinsurance.com/blog/2013/04/29/is-your-mcmansion-killing-you/"><img align="center"…

  • BBC: Overuse of Hysterectomies in India

    NewAmerica.net Blog Posts
    Joe Colucci
    7 Feb 2013 | 1:14 pm
    A BBC report from earlier this weeks makes it very clear: overuse of elective medical procedures is not just an American problem, or even just a developed-world problem. The report tells the story of women in a number of rural villages in India, where hundreds of women have been convinced, cajoled, and frightened into having hysterectomies they almost certainly didn't need.The story suggests that the procedures are probably being done to make money for unscrupulous local doctors. The docs work in India's private medical system, but the public insurance program for the poor allows patients to…

  • Feds ‘fix’ mortgage insurance, but homebuyers won’t benefit

    The Fine Print - Presented by Insure.com
    Ed Leefeldt
    20 May 2013 | 7:00 am
    The illegal collaboration of mortgage insurers and banks netted them billions.

  • NCCI: Workers Comp Outlook Encouraging

    Insurance Industry Blog
    Claire
    20 May 2013 | 5:37 am
    The workers compensation insurance market showed some signs of recovery in 2012, according to the annual “State of the Line” report from NCCI. Among the positives, the combined ratio for workers compensation improved for the first time since 2006, premium grew for the second consecutive year, and clam frequency declined significantly for the first time since 2009. The workers compensation calendar combined ratio was 109 in 2012, a six-point decrease from 2011. While a 109 combined ratio is far from satisfactory, the decline is welcome, NCCI said. The accident year combined ratio also…
 
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    INSURANCE - Yahoo! News Search Results

  • Post Tornado, Insurance Rates May Rise

    25 May 2013 | 12:15 am
    The damage from the tornado that tore through Moore, Oklahoma may soon spread to homeowners' pocketbooks, experts say.

  • Tornado Likely to Increase Insurance Rates

    24 May 2013 | 11:59 pm
    The damage from the tornado that tore through Moore, Oklahoma may soon spread to homeowners' pocketbooks. Experts say comprehensive homeowner insurance rates may rise in the twister's wake.

  • 6 Myths About Buying Life Insurance

    24 May 2013 | 12:38 pm
    Are you mistaken about life insurance costs, benefits and limits? Get the facts here.

  • New California health insurance rates unveiled

    24 May 2013 | 9:19 am
    Health insurance premiums for Covered California, the state-run marketplace, are lower than expected. Amid anxiety over rising costs from the federal healthcare law, California received better-than-expected insurance rates for a new state-run marketplace, but many consumers still won't be spared from sharply higher premiums.

  • Zurich Insurance Seeks China, Saudi Expansion on Growth Bets

    24 May 2013 | 5:20 am
    Zurich Insurance Group AG (ZURN) plans to expand in China and Saudi Arabia as the insurer seeks to capitalize on economic growth in the world’s second-biggest economy and largest oil exporter.
 
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    About.com Business Insurance

  • Twisters, Twisters and More Twisters

    23 May 2013 | 6:58 am
    It's late May and tornado season is in full swing. A "super cell" thunderstorm that hit northern Texas last week generated 16 tornadoes. Can you imagine the wind power of 16 twisters? One of those tornadoes packed winds up to 200 miles per hour. Five days later an even stronger tornado hit Moore, Oklahoma. The devastation is horrendous. The one good thing about tornadoes is that they are covered by property insurance. Insured losses in Moore may exceed $3 billion. I experienced a minor tornado many years ago and it was scary. I was in my apartment around nine P.M. one evening during a…

  • Risky Business

    16 May 2013 | 5:07 am
    Like most small businesses, yours is probably covered by a general liability policy. But have you actually read your policy? Plowing through a bunch of legalese isn't fun, but you do need to know what your policy covers. Take the first step by reading my introduction to the standard liability policy. If your company offers health insurance or other employee benefits you'll also want to read my article on employee benefits liability insurance. You'll be glad you have this coverage if your firm is hit with a lawsuit because of an administrative error. Speaking of liability, you've probably read…

  • Distracted Drivers, A Modern Menace

    16 May 2013 | 5:07 am
    If you have ever been confused about the difference between an auto and mobile equipment (terms used in commercial auto and general liability policies), my article on mobile equipment should clear things up. Does your company rent autos? If so, check out my piece on "Questions to Ask Before Your Business Rents an Auto". This article can help you avoid costly mistakes when using rental vehicles. If you regularly read online insurance publications such as Insurance Journal then you know that distracted driving is a hot topic these days. Much of the attention has focused on texting by teenaged…

  • Today is National Healthcare Decisions Day

    16 Apr 2012 | 8:07 am
    April 16, 2012 is the Fifth Annual National Healthcare Decisions Day. A day created by a coalition of health providers and insurers to remind the public about the critical importance of having advance healthcare planning. If you do not have any form of advance directive telling your friends and loved ones how to make medical care decisions, you risk losing control of those decisions. "42% of Americans have had a friend or relative suffer from a terminal illness or coma in the last five years and for a majority of these people and 23% of the general public, the issue of withholding life…

  • Practical Workers' Compensation Manual

    26 Mar 2012 | 6:35 am
    The Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS) is a great source of information for companies looking to control risk and control business insurance premium costs. The RIMS professional library is a terific way to learn risk and insurance management. The Society frequently sends me e-mails about product offerings and I do not receive any compensation from RIMS. I mention their publications because I know they are well written and practical. Workers' compensation is complicated. It is also mandatory. It is also one area of business insurance where proper preparation and implementation of…
 
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    California Personal Injury and Insurance Blog

  • Information you MUST get at the scene of the accident

    steinlaw
    23 May 2013 | 11:13 am
    I have talked about this before. It is even part of my presentation when I speak to high school students. What information do you need to get at the scene of an accident? First, if the police come and separate...

  • More on total losses

    steinlaw
    17 May 2013 | 7:33 am
    I have written a lot about total losses before. You can find those articles here. But it bears repeating since so many people ask me this: why can't we use Blue Book value? The simple answer is that Blue Book...

  • FAQ: Why are they closing my claim?

    steinlaw
    10 May 2013 | 11:28 am
    Question: I was involved in a car accident. I am still treating and the adjuster told me that he is going to close my claim. Why? Answer: Sadly, the answer is "because they can." The insurance company can open a...

  • FAQ: Do I really need renters insurance?

    steinlaw
    3 May 2013 | 8:19 am
    Question: I rent an apartment. Do I really need renter's insurance? Answer: YES!!! I cannot be more emphatic. YES!!!! Okay, so I was a little more emphatic. There are two reasons why. The first is less common, but just as...

  • FAQ: How much car insurance do I need?

    steinlaw
    5 Apr 2013 | 7:24 am
    Question: I know I have to have insurance in California. How much insurance do I have to have? Answer: How much you have to have and how much you should have are two different questions. Let's start with the first...
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    Specialty Insurance Blog

  • Insurance Agents/Brokers Liability

    Specialty Insurance Blog
    21 May 2013 | 7:00 am
    Most practitioners expect an insured to read their policy, but that does not relieve an insurance agent or broker from his or her duties. An insured’s failure to read the policy does not relieve the insurance agent/broker from liability for negligence according to a relatively narrow decision by the New York Court of Appeals. Insurance Journal has an excellent summary of this decision and prior history (see here, written by Steven Pitt of Kunz Plitt Hyland & Demlong, P.C.). The Court held that the insured’s failure to read the policy, in a failure-to-procure-insurance case, at most, may…

  • Cyber risk Incidents

    Specialty Insurance Blog
    7 May 2013 | 7:00 am
    Small and medium sized organizations are victims of employee errors and hacker attacks, and need Cyber Risk/Data Breach Insurance. Larger companies and the government are not the only targets, and smaller companies are perceived as less secure. Here are some incidents: Actuary: A hacker found his way into the network and proceeded to erase the entire server. While some backups existed, the cost to replicate the data exceeded $10,000. Accountant: A hacker found his way into an accountant’s system and stole tax filing information, but the accountant did not know his system had been breached.

  • Bank Account Theft & Cyber Insurance

    Specialty Insurance Blog
    30 Apr 2013 | 7:00 am
    Another example of a bank account takeover triggers the question: Did they have Cyber Risk Insurance? It appears not. Brian Krebs of Krebs on Security reported that another small business is the victim of a bank account takeover (see here). The cyber thieves initiated three wire transfers to the Ukraine totaling approximately $223,000, and the victim is seeking to hold the bank responsible. No mention of cyber risk insurance. As a follow-up to a prior post on bank account takeovers (see here), an escrow firm in Missouri lost its case for recovery of funds from its bank. It lost $440,000 as a…

  • Surplus Lines Insurance – Best Practices

    Specialty Insurance Blog
    23 Apr 2013 | 7:00 am
    Placing business in the excess & surplus lines insurance market (E&S insurance) has many of the same characteristics as the standard insurance market, but also has a few key differences. The most significant difference is the use of wholesale brokers. Successfully utilizing the E&S market through a wholesale broker with the proper licensing and expertise will smooth the process and enhance the retail producer’s business prospects. These best practices are suggested: Communicate, don’t assume – When in doubt, communicate expectations Document (& Document & Document) – You have heard…

  • Insurance Agents E&O – Custom Coverage

    Specialty Insurance Blog
    16 Apr 2013 | 7:13 am
    Some insurance agents and brokers do not realize that their insurance agents E&O policy does not cover all of their services. Insurance agents are always looking for an edge, and differentiation strategies can lead to a variety of value added services (see our prior post). Some of these value added services may not fit within the standard definition of covered services in an insurance agents/brokers E&O policy. An example: An insurance agency specialized in a specific class of business, and also provided value added services to its clients including risk management, compliance and training…
 
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    About.com Personal Insurance

  • Rental Car Insurance and Motor Clubs

    13 May 2013 | 3:41 am
    Do You Have Insurance Coverage for a Rental Car after a Car Accident? Are you a member of a motor club? Unfortunately a motor club will not guarantee ...Read Full Post

  • Should You Buy Flood Insurance?

    9 May 2013 | 5:11 am
    Who is eligible to buy flood insurance? Everyone who lives in a National Flood Insurance Program area can buy flood insurance and these areas are not always prone to floods....Read Full Post

  • Term or Cash Value Life Insurance?

    26 Apr 2013 | 3:54 am
    Out of all the life insurance options available many get confused about who should and should not choose term life insurance. It is important to remember that with different life circumstances and changes, your life insurance needs change too. Now may be the time to Learn Which is Better for You... Term or Cash Value Insurance?

  • Pet Insurance and Top Tips

    24 Apr 2013 | 1:53 am
    Have you decided that pet insurance is right for you? If so, it is important that you check out The Top 3 Items to Understand When Shopping for a Pet Insurance Policy...Read Full Post

  • Are you an Auto Insurance Shopper?

    23 Apr 2013 | 1:21 pm
    Many people do shop around for their auto insurance and it is a great way to save. Are you ready to start shopping for auto insurance? Then first you ...Read Full Post
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    HomeApproved Car Insurance Blog

  • Insurance Price Comparison Websites – Comparing What?

    eapbmarketing
    7 May 2013 | 2:22 am
    UK Insurance Price Comparison – Not Quite What it Says on the Tin?! As a consumer, when you visit a car insurance price comparison website in the UK, you might imagine you are equally comparing, all of the insurers on the panel delivered by the comparison website. Right? Well, maybe not! We take a look at the latest news stories about just how independent and altruistic your comparison partner might be? HomeApproved investigates. Filed under: Car Insurance, HomeApproved, Insurance Marketing, Insurance Regulation Tagged: Car Insurance, insurance, price comparison

  • Confused.com Car Insurance

    eapbmarketing
    2 Apr 2013 | 12:59 am
    More good news. Are you as Confused as we are? If you are preferable to a bit of Confused.com, then you can find them right here – as we now partner Confused for some of the best deals for car insurance in the UK! Filed under: Car Insurance, HomeApproved, Insurance Marketing Tagged: confused.com

  • Tesco Car Insurance

    eapbmarketing
    2 Apr 2013 | 12:58 am
    Good news…… If you like collecting Clubcard points then you can obtain some more with the help of HomeApproved. Our new partnership with Tesco car insurance gives you access to some of the cheapest quotes online…. Enjoy! Filed under: Car Insurance, HomeApproved, Insurance Marketing Tagged: tesco car insurance

  • If you are into Tumblr….

    eapbmarketing
    7 Mar 2013 | 10:25 am
    If you are into Tumblr, and apparently 4m of you are in the UK. U can follow us here: http://ow.ly/iwpsZ Filed under: Car Insurance, HomeApproved, Insurance Marketing, Young Drivers Tagged: Tumblr Insurance

  • Pothole Claims

    eapbmarketing
    2 Mar 2013 | 9:12 am
    Pothole Claims Whilst we may well of seen the last of the snow for this winter, one of the lasting memories many of us will encounter is the dreaded pothole. http://ow.ly/id52G Filed under: Car Insurance, General Car, HomeApproved, Motoring Law Tagged: pothole claims
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    Reduce Your Workers Compensation Insurance Coverage Costs with Timely Information for Employers | Work Comp Roundup

  • Gould & Lamb’s National Institute for Medicare & Medicaid Education & Other Workers Comp News

    Michael B. Stack
    24 May 2013 | 9:23 am
    Making ends meet on healthcare One of the key long-term concerns of many accident survivors involves finding acceptable and affordable health insurance.  Two news stories this week show how daunting this task is and point out the vital need for accident victims to ensure regular (and significant) funding to cover their healthcare needs.   Start with indications that many employees are having their weekly hours cut so they fall below the coming federal standard to qualify for employer-sponsored health coverage, according to this new survey from the International Foundation of…

  • Railworker Unjustly Fired For Acting In Self-Defense Against Abusive Customer

    Michael B. Stack
    24 May 2013 | 5:30 am
    British Rail Union RMT recently confirmed that a ballot was entered into service on London Midland over the victimization of a Revenue Protection Officer fired by the company for resisting a physical and verbal assault by a known troublemaker.   Employee Verbally & Physically Assaulted Acted In Self-Defense According to RMT information, James Crabtree is a London Midland Revenue Protection Inspector and on the day the incident happened he was serving on the gateline at Watford Junction. The report notes that he was reportedly verbally abused and physically pushed by a well-known…

  • Techniques to Control Run-Away Cost of Narcotics in Workers Comp

    Rebecca Shafer, J.D.
    23 May 2013 | 6:30 am
    All insurers and self-insured employers deal with the long-term medical treatment claims where the injured employees become addicted to one or more narcotics. Narcotics, which are opium based and are excellent for treating pain in the short run, have two problems. First, the human body adjusts to the medication, and in order to continue to obtain the same level of pain relief, the amount of the medication must be increased. Second, narcotics are highly addictive, and the injured employee can go through both physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms when the narcotics are…

  • Ontario Unveils Final Report on Vulnerable Workers and Precarious Work

    Michael B. Stack
    23 May 2013 | 5:30 am
    Many workers oftentimes get placed in positions that can be both hazardous and counter-productive to their health. With that in mind, what can be done to change things? The Law Commission of Ontario (LCO) recently unveiled its Final Report on Vulnerable Workers and Precarious Work. The Report includes 47 recommendations designed to respond to the challenges faced by vulnerable workers to reduce their vulnerability to or the impacts of precarious work which extend to their health, family relationships and other areas of life beyond the workplace. In particular, the Project looks to…

  • 5 Additional Tips To Improve Your Workplace Safety

    Michael B. Stack
    22 May 2013 | 6:30 am
    Workplace safety is one of those topics where it is hard to overemphasis its importance. There can be such a thing as “too much safety”, but that level is the small majority of companies. It is my experience that most companies have something in place for workplace safety. If you are a company operating a workplace safety program, here are 5 additional tips to help you improve.  If you are not currently operating a workplace safety program, get started today.       Hazard awareness through company communication   Once you…
 
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    Colorado Health Insurance Insider

  • No Colorado Health Insurance Rate Information Yet

    Louise
    22 May 2013 | 1:28 pm
    May 15th was the deadline for health insurance carriers in Colorado to submit rates for new plans that will be sold in the individual and small group markets in Colorado, both in and outside of the exchange/marketplace (Connect for Health Colorado).  Much has been said about today - May 22nd - being the date when those rates are available to the public, and there has been a lot of anticipation about getting to find out what health insurance premiums are going to look like next year in Colorado.  We know that in the Pacific Northwest, rates have come in lower than expected, attributed…

  • ACA – We Need Solutions Instead Of Repeal Votes

    Louise
    17 May 2013 | 12:08 pm
    By now it's probably not surprising to anyone to hear that the House voted - yet again - to repeal the ACA yesterday.  This is the 37th time in the last three years that they've voted to repeal and/or defund all or part of the law.  They are fully aware of the fact that their vote will - as usual - end with them, as it's highly unlikely to get through the Senate.  But they continue to focus a rather significant portion of their (taxpayer funded) time on this issue. It's understandable that there are objections to the ACA.  To say otherwise is to be blind to some of the obvious problems…

  • Freedom Of Religion And Workers’ Comp In The Cav

    Louise
    15 May 2013 | 6:44 pm
    I'm sure a lot of people would have an opinion on this based on religious and/or business beliefs. Jon's take on this situation is probably far more informed than the average person's would be, given his knowledge of the workers' comp system. I cannot imagine going without health insurance, or employees going without workers' comp, but I recognize that my viewpoint is based on my own experiences in the secular business world - where money (and expensive healthcare) is very much a necessity. It will be interesting to see how this plays out in a Supreme Court appeal. Jon mentioned that there's…

  • Comparing CEO Compensation in Various Healthcare Industries

    Louise
    10 May 2013 | 3:52 pm
    Joe Paduda of Managed Care Matters did an excellent job with the most recent Health Wonk Review - be sure to stop by his blog and check it out.  I thought this article from Dr. Roy Poses was especially interesting.  Writing at Health Care Renewal, Dr. Poses shines the spotlight on UnitedHealth Group's CEO Stephen Hemsley's oversized compensation.  Roy notes that while the increase in CEO compensation does mirror the company's overall financial success of late, it must also be considered in light of the fact that the company has made some missteps in terms of fulfilling its stated mission…

  • Balance Billing From Non-Network Providers Who Work At In-Network Facilities

    Louise
    9 May 2013 | 11:29 am
    We recently heard from one of our clients who is dealing with a balance billing issue resulting from a NICU stay.  For her baby's birth, she chose a large hospital in Denver that was on her Humana health insurance network.  Her OB/GYN was also on the Humana plan, and she figured she had all of her ducks in a row.  But complications necessitated an emergency transfer to the NICU, where her new baby was cared for by doctors who are contracted with the hospital, but are not part of the Humana network. When patients are treated by out-of network providers, there's no contractual obligation…
 
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    ProtectYourIncome.com » Disability Insurance Blog

  • Lowering your Risk of Disability Claims

    Richard Reich
    9 May 2013 | 2:48 pm
    Disability insurance, like most types of insurance, is a product you want to have for protection, but never want to use.  In speaking to people about this type of coverage, I am often asked, “what happens if I never use the insurance and never file any disability claims?”  If you are a glass-half-empty-type person, you’ll probably think of what you could do now with all the money you spent on premiums.   If you’re a glass-half-full person, you’ll be thankful you never had to use this insurance. As discussed in other places on this website, the chance of…

  • A Real Life Disability Story – Auto Accident

    Richard Reich
    3 May 2013 | 2:19 pm
    Continuing our series of real life disability stories provided by Guardian Life Insurance seems even more appropriate now that it’s Disability Insurance Awareness Month (DIAM).    Created by the non-profit organization LIFE (Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education), the purpose of DIAM is to disseminate information about this much-needed insurance product.   We believe that nothing portrays the need better than a real life disability story. Henry, a 51 year old neurosurgeon, was involved in a horrible automobile accident while on his way to pick up his son from hockey…

  • The 10 Leading Causes of Disability

    Richard Reich
    30 Apr 2013 | 5:41 pm
    According to the Social Security Administration, the probability of becoming disabled in some way before reaching retirement age is around 1 in 3. There are lots of conditions that could lead to a disability; some can be prevented by making healthy life style choices, but people are subjected to others due to the vagaries of genetics. Here are ten of the most common conditions that lead to disability benefits claims: Arthritis, or other musculoskeletal problems, is an extremely common cause of long-term disability and accounts for around a third of all disability cases. This is likely because…

  • A Real Life Disability Story – MS

    Richard Reich
    23 Apr 2013 | 5:07 pm
    Scott is the sole business owner of a high tech manufacturing company.  As the sole owner, Scott wore multiple “hats,” including sales, accounting, administration and also precision design engineering that required manual dexterity.  His income grew to $290,000 annually. Early in his career, Scott was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), but his minor symptoms (intention tremors) didn’t initially affect his job.  However, at age 61, four years before he was going to retire, his condition worsened.  His tremors prevented him from performing the design engineering part…

  • Be Selfish – Purchase Disability Insurance

    Richard Reich
    17 Apr 2013 | 4:33 pm
    I recently had a client who was approved for a disability insurance policy decide not to take the policy he was issued.  This was a policy which was approved as we had applied, which means the benefit amount and all the riders were not changed, nor were there any exclusions for preexisting conditions.  I’m not saying that this is rare, but quite often policies are approved with one or more changes from the original quote illustration. The client told me that he was hesitant because of the cost of the policy.  As his income was greater than $300,000, his policy came with a monthly…
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    Home Insurance Blog

  • Five Tips for Getting Your Barbecue On

    Arthur Murray
    24 May 2013 | 12:05 pm
    Five Tips for Getting Your Barbecue On By Arthur Murray You waited – not all that patiently – all winter for a chance to fire up the grill again and have a barbecue. But the weather in many parts of the country hasn’t been cooperative until recently. You can almost taste the burgers or chicken or whatever your favorite barbecue fare is. But there are a few safety precautions you should take before you light the grill. Following are five things to do before you start cooking: Prepare for the worst Buy a fire extinguisher, and make sure you know how to use it. Why? According to the…

  • Hurricane Season Begins June 1: Are You Covered?

    Kelly McMurtrie
    21 May 2013 | 7:06 am
    Hurricane Season Begins June 1: Are You Covered? Last year, experts recorded 19 tropical storm systems in the Atlantic Ocean – the third highest number in history. Of those, nine developed into fully fledged hurricanes, and one mutated into Superstorm Sandy – the second most catastrophic storm on record, outranked only by Hurricane Katrina. Millions of homeowners were caught unprepared and underinsured last year because they didn’t know that their standard homeowners insurance policies did not automatically provide complete coverage against hurricanes. Here are the types of…

  • Where do your rates stack up? Average Home Insurance Premiums Released

    Carrie Van Brunt-Wiley
    13 May 2013 | 1:12 pm
    The average cost of homeowners insurance last year was $897, based on policies sold across the U.S. by HomeInsurance.com in 2012. This was a 15% increase in the average national premium as reported by HomeInsurance.com in 2011. Some homeowners paid as much as $1,700 and as little as $520 to insure their homes last year. Check out the states where homeowners were paying the highest and lowest premiums in the map below. Where do your rates measure up? Let us know in the comments section below. Note: The average premiums displayed in the map below are based on average premiums as sold by…

  • Is Your McMansion Killing You?

    admin
    29 Apr 2013 | 2:38 pm
    Bigger homes should make us happier, right? Maybe not. Since 1950, the size of an average home in the U.S. has more than doubled. But we’re spending less time in them, working more to pay them off and – to top it off – sleeping less. Check out how we’ve become fatter, poorer and sleepier despite all the upgrades in our homes. Embed This Image On Your Site (copy code below): <div style="clear:both"><a href="http://homeinsurance.com/blog/2013/04/29/is-your-mcmansion-killing-you/"><img align="center"…

  • Insuring Safe Travels – Is My Vacation Covered?

    Arthur Murray
    22 Apr 2013 | 8:53 am
    Whether you’re getting ready to send your kids away on a summer adventure or planning an overdue getaway for yourself, the last thing you want to worry about when it comes to vacation is what could go wrong. Sometimes, investing in travel insurance for your trip is a smart move in order to give you that peace of mind and help you relax on your time off. But when a policy typically costs 5-8% of your trip’s total cost, it’s important to have a good understanding of when you really need travel insurance, and when you could do without. Here are a few basic rules for determining whether or…
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    Insurance Law Hawaii

  • Hawaii Intermediate Court of Appeal Rejects Pro Se Insured's Appeal

    Tred Eyerly
    22 May 2013 | 3:01 am
       The Hawaii Intermediate Court of Appeal agreed that the insured had entered an enforceable settlement with his insurer regarding a coverage dispute. Flowers v. United Services Automobile Assoc., No. 30085, Summary Disposition Order (Haw. Ct. App. May 17, 2013). [Order here].    The insured made a claim under his renter's insurance policy with USAA when certain household items were lost during the insured's move to Australia. The parties could not reach agreement on the adjustment of these claims. The insured sue for breach of contract and bad faith. The trail court granted…

  • Group Builders' Presentation

    Tred Eyerly
    21 May 2013 | 5:03 pm
       Today, I spoke with the HSBA Litigation section about construction defect coverage in Hawaii and the Group Builders' cases. Thank you to all who attended and participated in the discussion. Here are my power point slides from the presentation. Group Builders Update - Tred Eyerly, Esq. www.insurancelawhawaii.com from inversecondemnation

  • Insurer and Agent Liable for Failure to Obtain Flood Insurance

    Tred Eyerly
    20 May 2013 | 3:01 am
       The Louisiana Court of Appeal affirmed the trial court's finding of liability on the part of the insurer and the agent for their failure to properly procure flood insurance for the insureds. Barnett v. Fid. Nat'l Prop. & Cas. Co., 2013 La. App. LEXIS 856 (La. Ct. App. May 1, 2013).    The plaintiffs' home was destroyed in 2005 by Hurricane Rita. After the hurricane, Travelers refused to continue providing flood insurance because the property was located within a Coastal Barrier Resource System (CBRS).     The plaintiffs contacted an agent at Insurance Unlimited of…

  • Upcoming Presentation on Group Builders, Coverage for Construction Defects Update

    Tred Eyerly
    17 May 2013 | 8:23 pm
       Robert Thomas, my blogging colleague at Damon Key, has posted about his presentation Monday, May 20, 2013, to the Hawaii State Bar Association's Appellate Section. Robert will be speaking on amicus briefing from 12 to 1 p.m. at the HSBA conference room.     Which reminds me, I will be making a presentation to the HSBA Litigation section the next day, May 21, 2013, also from 12 to 1 p.m., at the HSBA conference room. I will focus on updating the Group Builders' litigation and the continuing dispute over insurance coverage in Hawaii for construction defects. The discussion is…

  • Owned Property Exclusion Bars Coverage

    Tred Eyerly
    15 May 2013 | 3:01 am
       Recovery for the cost of stabilizing and then demolishing a building were excluded from coverage by the owned property exclusion. Clarinet, LLC v. Essex Ins. Co., 2013 U.S. App. LEXIS 7922 (8th Cir. April 22, 2013).    In 2005, Clarinet purchased a building in St. Louis which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A windstorm on July 19, 2006, caused damage to the building, destroying parts of two exterior walls and part of the roof. Debris and bricks fell and damaged nearby city property.     After the storm, Clarinet sought to stabilize the building with aluminum…
 
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    LifeInsure.com » Life Insurance Blog

  • Yet another study connects fish oil with heart health

    Richard Reich
    24 May 2013 | 7:43 am
    Often associated with the long-term betterment of personal health, fish oil – which contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids – appears to have been justified even further by a new study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health.The Endocrine Society, a U.S.-based organization that funds medical research, reported in a press release that investigators at Harvard pored over data from a number of clinical trials that focused on the effects of fish oil. Hundreds of participants consumed fish oil tablets on a daily basis, and the researchers found evidence that those who…

  • Succession Planning for your Business

    Richard Reich
    17 May 2013 | 11:25 am
    Business Life Insurance for Partners and Succession Planning When you go into business with other people, it’s important to stop and think about what might happen in the event that you or one of your partners passes away. It’s one thing to start and run a small business with a particular person that you know and trust, but it’s another matter entirely to find yourself owning and operating a business with one of your partner’s heirs in the event of his or her death. However, if one of your partners dies and you haven’t done proper succession planning (a legally…

  • Most restaurant meals contain more salt, fats than previously thought

    Richard Reich
    14 May 2013 | 12:12 pm
    A recent study conducted by a team at the University of Toronto contained some sobering facts for folks who enjoy eating out at least once a week. According to the findings, the average meal purchased from a restaurant contains far more salt, calories and fats that previously expected. The researchers suggested that rising obesity rates in the United States and abroad could be at least partially attributed to these factors.Another report, written by a group at Tufts University in Massachusetts, alleged similar results – that most choices from small restaurants contain more than…

  • Mother’s Day Question – What’s a Mother Worth?

    Richard Reich
    10 May 2013 | 5:22 pm
    Before you start storming the castle with pitchforks and torches, I am not talking about the intangibles a mother’s brings to one’s life, and I certainly wouldn’t be bringing it up a couple of days before Mother’s Day.  Having lost my mother a few years ago, there isn’t a day that goes by that I’m not reminded how much she meant to me in my life.  Years later, there are still times I want to call her to ask her a question about something or other. What I’m talking about here is the salary a mother should receive…if she were actually getting…

  • Name your Beneficiary Wisely

    Richard Reich
    8 May 2013 | 3:13 pm
    When you purchase a life insurance policy, you must name the person, persons or entity (e.g. trust) that will receive the death benefit of your policy upon your death.  The amount of unclaimed death benefits in the U.S. is staggering.  In an article titled “How to Find Lost Life Insurance Policies” in the February issue of ConsumerReports.Org, it is estimated that at least one billion dollars of life insurance death benefits are waiting to be claimed by  policy beneficiaries.  We addressed the topic of unclaimed benefits in an earlier post, Will Your Life Insurance Benefits go…
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    TDI News Releases

  • 2013safety

    21 May 2013 | 7:27 am
    05/21/13 - DWC recognized two Texas employers, CFAN and BeautiControl, with safety awards for their exemplary occupational safety and health programs.

  • dwcapril

    21 May 2013 | 5:18 am
    05/21/13 - AUSTIN - Commissioner of Workers’ Compensation Rod Bordelon recently announced final disciplinary actions taken by the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation (TDI-DWC).

  • northtornadoes

    16 May 2013 | 10:37 am
    05/16/13 - AUSTIN – In the aftermath of severe tornado activity in North Texas on May 15, Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) staff will be on-site in Granbury, Millsap, Mineral Wells, and Cleburne to help insurance consumers.

  • westinvestigation

    16 May 2013 | 12:28 am
    05/16/13 - WEST, TX – SFMO and ATF National Response Team, along with ATF Special Agents from the Houston Field Division, announce the conclusion of the scene investigation at the West Fertilizer Plant fire and explosion that occurred on April 17, 2013. Both agencies have ruled the cause of the fire as “undetermined.”

  • convictedfelony

    15 May 2013 | 8:08 am
    05/15/13 - HOUSTON – The Harris County 338th District Court has convicted Leslie Ray Collins of Sugar Land of a first-degree felony of misapplication of fiduciary property over the value of $200,000 and sentenced Collins to serve 12 years in prison.
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    auto-insurance « WordPress.com Tag Feed

  • Making Your Relationship With Money A More Healthy One

    littletyro7858
    20 May 2013 | 3:55 pm
    Money is a key aspect of everyone’s life and, as such, you will have to deal with it. You should learn how to manage your finances. Take the time to educate yourself on finances and how to become independent. This article contains ideas that will help you manage your finances better. When you decide to make a budget, look at your income and expenses. Your income is always after taxes. Add all of your income together for this. Don’t forget funds from stocks, second jobs or any other sources. You should never spend more in a month than you make. Even though it will take some time,…

  • Great Ways To Improve Your Relationship With Money

    littletyro7858
    20 May 2013 | 3:54 pm
    Finances are something that every grownup will have to face. Though it may be hard to deal with reality, it is an important step to taking control of your life. This guide contains tips on how to gain control of your finances. Creating a budget is an important first step. When creating your budget, make sure you come up with a list of all your income as well as expenses. Be sure to include extra income outside of your regular source of income. You don’t want your expenses to exceed the amount of income. Make an itemized list of your expenses for a clear look at your financial picture.

  • Affordable Florida Auto Insurance

    jamesbsmith1948
    20 May 2013 | 3:57 am
    The principle of car or truck insurance coverage is undoubtedly not some thing that really should be taken for granted or fully neglected. In daily life, you are confronted with diversified unexpected conditions or unfavorable cases. Especially for the duration of these conditions, you know the relevance of auto insurance policies. Vehicle insurance policies schemes provide you complete defense against damages incurred by your auto. The modern selling price rise phenomenon has surely affected several insurance policy agencies. The hiked premium charges of insurance guidelines are unable to be…

  • Auto Insurance Online Quote

    jamesbsmith1948
    20 May 2013 | 3:57 am
    The strategy of vehicle insurance coverage is definitely not some thing that need to be taken for granted or completely neglected. In lifetime, you are confronted with diverse unforeseen conditions or unfavorable situations. Particularly in the course of these conditions, you realize the value of car insurance plan. Automobile insurance plan techniques provide you absolute safety against damages incurred by your automobile. The modern price rise phenomenon has definitely motivated several insurance companies. The hiked quality costs of insurance policies insurance policies can’t be…

  • Auto Insurance Free Quotes Weston Fl

    jamesbsmith1948
    20 May 2013 | 3:57 am
    The idea of vehicle insurance policy is absolutely not one thing that should be taken for granted or entirely neglected. In life, you are faced with different unexpected scenarios or unfavorable instances. Especially during these situations, you realize the worth of auto insurance plan. Automobile insurance plan strategies present you absolute protection versus damages incurred by your car. The new value rise phenomenon has certainly affected many insurance organizations. The hiked premium charges of insurance policies are unable to be afforded by a frequent man. Owing to this sort of…
 
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    LifeInsure.com » Life Insurance Blog

  • Yet another study connects fish oil with heart health

    Richard Reich
    24 May 2013 | 7:43 am
    Often associated with the long-term betterment of personal health, fish oil – which contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids – appears to have been justified even further by a new study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health.The Endocrine Society, a U.S.-based organization that funds medical research, reported in a press release that investigators at Harvard pored over data from a number of clinical trials that focused on the effects of fish oil. Hundreds of participants consumed fish oil tablets on a daily basis, and the researchers found evidence that those who…

  • Succession Planning for your Business

    Richard Reich
    17 May 2013 | 11:25 am
    Business Life Insurance for Partners and Succession Planning When you go into business with other people, it’s important to stop and think about what might happen in the event that you or one of your partners passes away. It’s one thing to start and run a small business with a particular person that you know and trust, but it’s another matter entirely to find yourself owning and operating a business with one of your partner’s heirs in the event of his or her death. However, if one of your partners dies and you haven’t done proper succession planning (a legally…

  • Most restaurant meals contain more salt, fats than previously thought

    Richard Reich
    14 May 2013 | 12:12 pm
    A recent study conducted by a team at the University of Toronto contained some sobering facts for folks who enjoy eating out at least once a week. According to the findings, the average meal purchased from a restaurant contains far more salt, calories and fats that previously expected. The researchers suggested that rising obesity rates in the United States and abroad could be at least partially attributed to these factors.Another report, written by a group at Tufts University in Massachusetts, alleged similar results – that most choices from small restaurants contain more than…

  • Mother’s Day Question – What’s a Mother Worth?

    Richard Reich
    10 May 2013 | 5:22 pm
    Before you start storming the castle with pitchforks and torches, I am not talking about the intangibles a mother’s brings to one’s life, and I certainly wouldn’t be bringing it up a couple of days before Mother’s Day.  Having lost my mother a few years ago, there isn’t a day that goes by that I’m not reminded how much she meant to me in my life.  Years later, there are still times I want to call her to ask her a question about something or other. What I’m talking about here is the salary a mother should receive…if she were actually getting…

  • Name your Beneficiary Wisely

    Richard Reich
    8 May 2013 | 3:13 pm
    When you purchase a life insurance policy, you must name the person, persons or entity (e.g. trust) that will receive the death benefit of your policy upon your death.  The amount of unclaimed death benefits in the U.S. is staggering.  In an article titled “How to Find Lost Life Insurance Policies” in the February issue of ConsumerReports.Org, it is estimated that at least one billion dollars of life insurance death benefits are waiting to be claimed by  policy beneficiaries.  We addressed the topic of unclaimed benefits in an earlier post, Will Your Life Insurance Benefits go…
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    DailyFinance.com

  • Oklahoma's Tornado Tragedy Could Send Your Insurance Costs Higher

    Dan Caplinger
    22 May 2013 | 10:00 pm
    Filed under: Insurance, Emergencies, Homeowners InsuranceGetty Images The tornado that devastated Moore, Okla., this week reminded everyone of how important it is to protect yourself from the potential financial impact of natural disasters. But as essential as homeowners' insurance is, catastrophic events like this also make it more likely that you'll end up having to pay more for that protection. Higher Rates Have Already Been Coming One reason insurance premiums are subject to government regulation is to protect policyholders from potential price-gouging from insurers. Yet regulators are…

  • Tornado Season: Do You Have Good Home Insurance?

    AOL Real Estate Editors
    21 May 2013 | 7:30 am
    Filed under: Insurance As the massive tornado that ripped through the Oklahoma City suburb of Moore has shown, we're in the midst of tornado season. Dozens are dead after Monday's storm, and the death toll is expected to rise as rescue crews continue searching through the rubble for survivors, the Associated Press reported. In the town of Moore, Okla., an elementary school was demolished and scores of homes were flattened. For those living in the swath of the Great Plains, Midwest and South known as "tornado alley" -- which covers a big part of Oklahoma -- this is a reminder of how…

  • 'My GPS Made Me Do It': Top Excuses When Getting Pulled Over

    Molly McCluskey
    1 May 2013 | 7:30 am
    Filed under: Insurance, Auto InsuranceAlamy "My GPS told me to do it." That's one of the top excuses offered by drivers who get pulled over for a moving violation, according to a new study. Other favorites: I'm lost; I spilled a hot drink in my lap; I'm on my way to an emergency. According to the survey by Insurance.com, which polled 500 drivers over the age of 18, women are more likely to plead ignorance, such as being lost (65 percent) or unknowingly having broken equipment. Men, on the other hand, are more likely to claim an emergency situation (67 percent) or that everyone else was doing…

  • 'Dear Mom, I Wish You'd Had Life Insurance'

    LearnVest
    23 Apr 2013 | 10:00 pm
    Filed under: Insurance, Estate Planning, Life InsuranceBrittney Lacombe / LIFE By BRITTNEY LACOMBE I live in St. Petersburg, Florida. On May 8th, 2011, my mother, two younger sisters and I drove to a local campsite for our annual Mother's Day camping trip. When we arrived, my mother said that her foot was bothering her. We thought maybe she had hit it on something, so we didn't think much of it. But that night, the pain got so bad she couldn't stand it. She called 911 and an ambulance took her to a hospital. The doctors thought she had cellulitis, a blood infection, and wanted to keep her…

  • Why Long-Term-Care Insurance Premiums Are Soaring

    Dan Caplinger
    3 Apr 2013 | 10:00 pm
    Filed under: Health Care, Insurance, Long Term Care Insurance, Retirement Living, PlanningAlamy With nearly 70 percent of Americans aged 65 or older expected to need long-term medical care at some point, millions of Americans have turned to long-term-care insurance to help them cover its high costs. But rate hikes on long-term-care premiums are coming, meaning many of those who prudently planned for their long-term-care needs may not be able to afford to keep their coverage. The largest public pension fund in the country, the California Public Employees' Pension Fund, runs one of the biggest…
 
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  • Scary Discovery on Paper Route

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Scary Discovery on Paper Route Fox17For four years, Colin's routine was simple: Run from car to door, then back to car. That all changed on one terrifying day.What trail of blood led him toMore to SeeStar Dons Blonde Wig During Arrest Dunham Furious Over 'Girls' Adult Vid Celeb Lost It in Front of Photogs?

  • Judge's Decision in Sheriff Joe Case

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Judge's Decision in Sheriff Joe CaseAPAmerica's self-proclaimed toughest sheriff, Joe Arpaio, has been accused of systematically singling out Latinos in immigration patrols.Federal judge's ruling in the caseMore NewsBride Kills Groom on Wedding DayRescued Ohio Women: Thank YouPsychic's 'Love Spell' Goes Wrong

  • Pretty Awkward Moment Preceded This

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Pretty Awkward Moment Preceded ThisAP The president was boarding Marine One en route to Maryland Friday morning, when he made an embarrassing faux pas. Gaffe that he quickly apologized forMore News How Bridge Collapse Survivor Saved Wife N.Korea to Take Steps for PeaceReporter Builds AK-47 with Printed Parts

  • 1991 Clinton Speech Resurfaces Online

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    1991 Clinton Speech Resurfaces Online YouTube.comThe video shows Bill Clinton giving an impassioned speech before he ran for president -- and the rhetoric he's using is relevant even today. New message he sold Democrats onMore NewsMichelle Obama Dances With Cute Children Woman Murders Fiance Hours Before Wedding Incredible Discovery Made in Mexico

  • Secret to Ripen Avocados in

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Secret to Ripen Avocados in 24 HoursGetty ImagesDon't let the rock hard ones at the grocery store deter you -- there's one very simple way to get them perfectly ripe in one day. Hint: It's not about the brown paper bagMore to See Numbers Prove State Is Now Safer?Discovery Could Change Country's HistoryExotic Car Rents for $26,000 a Day
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  • Scary Discovery on Paper Route

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Scary Discovery on Paper Route Fox17For four years, Colin's routine was simple: Run from car to door, then back to car. That all changed on one terrifying day.What trail of blood led him toMore to SeeStar Dons Blonde Wig During Arrest Dunham Furious Over 'Girls' Adult Vid Celeb Lost It in Front of Photogs?

  • Judge's Decision in Sheriff Joe Case

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Judge's Decision in Sheriff Joe CaseAPAmerica's self-proclaimed toughest sheriff, Joe Arpaio, has been accused of systematically singling out Latinos in immigration patrols.Federal judge's ruling in the caseMore NewsBride Kills Groom on Wedding DayRescued Ohio Women: Thank YouPsychic's 'Love Spell' Goes Wrong

  • Pretty Awkward Moment Preceded This

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Pretty Awkward Moment Preceded ThisAP The president was boarding Marine One en route to Maryland Friday morning, when he made an embarrassing faux pas. Gaffe that he quickly apologized forMore News How Bridge Collapse Survivor Saved Wife N.Korea to Take Steps for PeaceReporter Builds AK-47 with Printed Parts

  • 1991 Clinton Speech Resurfaces Online

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    1991 Clinton Speech Resurfaces Online YouTube.comThe video shows Bill Clinton giving an impassioned speech before he ran for president -- and the rhetoric he's using is relevant even today. New message he sold Democrats onMore NewsMichelle Obama Dances With Cute Children Woman Murders Fiance Hours Before Wedding Incredible Discovery Made in Mexico

  • Secret to Ripen Avocados in

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Secret to Ripen Avocados in 24 HoursGetty ImagesDon't let the rock hard ones at the grocery store deter you -- there's one very simple way to get them perfectly ripe in one day. Hint: It's not about the brown paper bagMore to See Numbers Prove State Is Now Safer?Discovery Could Change Country's HistoryExotic Car Rents for $26,000 a Day
  • add this feed to my.Alltop

  • Scary Discovery on Paper Route

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Scary Discovery on Paper Route Fox17For four years, Colin's routine was simple: Run from car to door, then back to car. That all changed on one terrifying day.What trail of blood led him toMore to SeeStar Dons Blonde Wig During Arrest Dunham Furious Over 'Girls' Adult Vid Celeb Lost It in Front of Photogs?

  • Judge's Decision in Sheriff Joe Case

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Judge's Decision in Sheriff Joe CaseAPAmerica's self-proclaimed toughest sheriff, Joe Arpaio, has been accused of systematically singling out Latinos in immigration patrols.Federal judge's ruling in the caseMore NewsBride Kills Groom on Wedding DayRescued Ohio Women: Thank YouPsychic's 'Love Spell' Goes Wrong

  • Pretty Awkward Moment Preceded This

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Pretty Awkward Moment Preceded ThisAP The president was boarding Marine One en route to Maryland Friday morning, when he made an embarrassing faux pas. Gaffe that he quickly apologized forMore News How Bridge Collapse Survivor Saved Wife N.Korea to Take Steps for PeaceReporter Builds AK-47 with Printed Parts

  • 1991 Clinton Speech Resurfaces Online

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    1991 Clinton Speech Resurfaces Online YouTube.comThe video shows Bill Clinton giving an impassioned speech before he ran for president -- and the rhetoric he's using is relevant even today. New message he sold Democrats onMore NewsMichelle Obama Dances With Cute Children Woman Murders Fiance Hours Before Wedding Incredible Discovery Made in Mexico

  • Secret to Ripen Avocados in

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Secret to Ripen Avocados in 24 HoursGetty ImagesDon't let the rock hard ones at the grocery store deter you -- there's one very simple way to get them perfectly ripe in one day. Hint: It's not about the brown paper bagMore to See Numbers Prove State Is Now Safer?Discovery Could Change Country's HistoryExotic Car Rents for $26,000 a Day
 
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  • Scary Discovery on Paper Route

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Scary Discovery on Paper Route Fox17For four years, Colin's routine was simple: Run from car to door, then back to car. That all changed on one terrifying day.What trail of blood led him toMore to SeeStar Dons Blonde Wig During Arrest Dunham Furious Over 'Girls' Adult Vid Celeb Lost It in Front of Photogs?

  • Judge's Decision in Sheriff Joe Case

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Judge's Decision in Sheriff Joe CaseAPAmerica's self-proclaimed toughest sheriff, Joe Arpaio, has been accused of systematically singling out Latinos in immigration patrols.Federal judge's ruling in the caseMore NewsBride Kills Groom on Wedding DayRescued Ohio Women: Thank YouPsychic's 'Love Spell' Goes Wrong

  • Pretty Awkward Moment Preceded This

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Pretty Awkward Moment Preceded ThisAP The president was boarding Marine One en route to Maryland Friday morning, when he made an embarrassing faux pas. Gaffe that he quickly apologized forMore News How Bridge Collapse Survivor Saved Wife N.Korea to Take Steps for PeaceReporter Builds AK-47 with Printed Parts

  • 1991 Clinton Speech Resurfaces Online

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    1991 Clinton Speech Resurfaces Online YouTube.comThe video shows Bill Clinton giving an impassioned speech before he ran for president -- and the rhetoric he's using is relevant even today. New message he sold Democrats onMore NewsMichelle Obama Dances With Cute Children Woman Murders Fiance Hours Before Wedding Incredible Discovery Made in Mexico

  • Secret to Ripen Avocados in

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Secret to Ripen Avocados in 24 HoursGetty ImagesDon't let the rock hard ones at the grocery store deter you -- there's one very simple way to get them perfectly ripe in one day. Hint: It's not about the brown paper bagMore to See Numbers Prove State Is Now Safer?Discovery Could Change Country's HistoryExotic Car Rents for $26,000 a Day
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  • Scary Discovery on Paper Route

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Scary Discovery on Paper Route Fox17For four years, Colin's routine was simple: Run from car to door, then back to car. That all changed on one terrifying day.What trail of blood led him toMore to SeeStar Dons Blonde Wig During Arrest Dunham Furious Over 'Girls' Adult Vid Celeb Lost It in Front of Photogs?

  • Judge's Decision in Sheriff Joe Case

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Judge's Decision in Sheriff Joe CaseAPAmerica's self-proclaimed toughest sheriff, Joe Arpaio, has been accused of systematically singling out Latinos in immigration patrols.Federal judge's ruling in the caseMore NewsBride Kills Groom on Wedding DayRescued Ohio Women: Thank YouPsychic's 'Love Spell' Goes Wrong

  • Pretty Awkward Moment Preceded This

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Pretty Awkward Moment Preceded ThisAP The president was boarding Marine One en route to Maryland Friday morning, when he made an embarrassing faux pas. Gaffe that he quickly apologized forMore News How Bridge Collapse Survivor Saved Wife N.Korea to Take Steps for PeaceReporter Builds AK-47 with Printed Parts

  • 1991 Clinton Speech Resurfaces Online

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    1991 Clinton Speech Resurfaces Online YouTube.comThe video shows Bill Clinton giving an impassioned speech before he ran for president -- and the rhetoric he's using is relevant even today. New message he sold Democrats onMore NewsMichelle Obama Dances With Cute Children Woman Murders Fiance Hours Before Wedding Incredible Discovery Made in Mexico

  • Secret to Ripen Avocados in

    25 May 2013 | 10:32 am
    Secret to Ripen Avocados in 24 HoursGetty ImagesDon't let the rock hard ones at the grocery store deter you -- there's one very simple way to get them perfectly ripe in one day. Hint: It's not about the brown paper bagMore to See Numbers Prove State Is Now Safer?Discovery Could Change Country's HistoryExotic Car Rents for $26,000 a Day
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    www.Artemis.bm The Alternative Risk Transfer, Catastrophe Bond, Insurance-Linked Securities and Weather Risk Management Blog

  • Investors help Allianz lock in competitive price on Blue Danube II cat bond

    Artemis
    24 May 2013 | 9:52 am
    German insurance and reinsurance group Allianz said that attractive market conditions combined with demand from investors for catastrophe bonds helped it lock in a competitive price on the recently completed Blue Danube II Ltd. (Series 2013-1) cat bond. Interest in the transaction was strong as capital markets investors came out in force to support Allianz. With the successful completion of the Blue Danube II cat bond, which we announced here yesterday, Allianz now benefits from a new $175m three-year layer of fully-collateralized, multi-peril reinsurance protection. The deal provides Allianz…

  • Tullett Prebon hires weather derivatives broker Rosen from ICAP

    Artemis
    24 May 2013 | 5:35 am
    Inter-dealer brokerage Tullet Prebon has hired a weather derivatives broker to its wholly owned subsidiary Tullett Prebon Energy. Peter Rosen joins the firm from his last role as a weather broker at ICAP and will report to Christopher Grosso, Director of Energy Products. He will be based in the firm’s Jersey City office. Rosen brings to Tullett Prebon Energy more than 15 years of experience as a broker, largely focused on trading and execution of weather derivatives contracts. Rosen has been instrumental in the innovation of weather trading and broking, including recently being responsible…

  • LGT collaborates on recent private catastrophe bond transaction

    Artemis
    24 May 2013 | 2:46 am
    According to a recently published update LGT Insurance-Linked Strategies, the insurance-linked securities and reinsurance-linked investment manager, has participated in another private catastrophe bond transaction. The transaction appears to have been completed recently and LGT participated as the sole investor. The LGT ILS team has a track record of participating in and facilitating private cat bond deals, having worked on what they term “Cat Bond Lite” structures with an issue volume of over $120m in the past, some of which had been transacted while the team were at their previous home…

  • EQECAT: $2Bn to $5Bn insured losses from recent tornado events, including Oklahoma

    Artemis
    24 May 2013 | 1:13 am
    Risk modelling firm EQECAT is the first to offer an estimate of insured property losses for the recent tornado events, including the devastating Moore, Oklahoma tornado. In its latest CatWatchTM report EQECAT has put an insured loss estimate on the tornado events of the 18th to 20th May, including Moore, of between $2 billion and $5 billion. This estimate is firmly inline with other suggestions from analysts (who said insured losses would be above $2 billion) and reinsurers (who said below $5 billion), as well as with the expectation that the Moore tornado alone could become the largest…

  • ‘Active or extremely active’ 2013 Atlantic hurricane season, forecast by NOAA

    Artemis
    24 May 2013 | 12:32 am
    The last of the forecasters who we follow on Artemis, the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or NOAA, has now published its forecast for the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season. The NOAA has joined all the other forecasters we follow by predicting an above average hurricane season. The NOAA always waits until just before the start of the hurricane season to release its forecast, but it is one of the forecasts that the industry tends to take the most notice of. In its 2013 Atlantic hurricane season outlook issued late yesterday, the NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center forecasts an…
 
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    healthinsurance.org news digest

  • State-federal partnership balances cost, control

    Editor
    20 May 2013 | 9:07 am
    By Carla Anderson healthinsurance.org™ contributor After first developing plans to operate a state-run health insurance exchange, West Virginia submitted a blueprint for a partnership exchange to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). That blueprint was approved in March 2013. Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin’s administration cited cost, particularly the expense associated with information technology systems, as a key factor in deciding against a state-run exchange. Administration officials also said the partnership gives the state some control over the exchange. Under the…

  • Vermont Health Connect for 2014, single-payer system in 2017

    Editor
    15 May 2013 | 10:00 pm
    By Carla Anderson healthinsurance.orgTM contributor Vermont is creating a health benefit exchange to comply with the Affordable Care Act, but the state has plans to go well beyond that. A 2011 state law envisions Vermont with a single-payer health care system as soon as 2017. For now, Vermont is implementing a state-based exchange: Vermont Health Connect. The state-based exchange was authorized by the state legislature and signed into law in 2012. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services approved the state’s plan in January 2013. The state is using a 2012 federal grant of $104.2…

  • Virginia ultimately chooses federal health insurance exchange

    Editor
    14 May 2013 | 10:51 am
    By Carla Anderson healthinsurance.orgTM contributor Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell, a Republican, opposed the Affordable Care Act. But along with the Republican-controlled General Assembly, he was conflicted as how best to resist the law’s implementation in the state.  In a 2011 letter to state legislative leaders, McDonnell wrote of extreme difficulty in determining whether “ceding control of an exchange to the federal government or creating our own is in the Commonwealth’s best interest.” The governor’s and General Assembly’s actions over the next several years…

  • Utah wins approval for dual-model exchange

    Editor
    13 May 2013 | 10:00 pm
    By Carla Anderson healthinsurance.orgTM contributor Along with Massachusetts, Utah has a health insurance exchange that predates the Affordable Care Act. However, unlike the exchanges called for by the Affordable Care Act, Utah’s exchange is not open to individual consumers to purchase health insurance. That fact has led to a series of discussions and negotiations between the state and the U.S. Department of Health and Humans Services (HHS) — and ultimately, a unique approach that is attracting interest from other states. The Utah Health Exchange was established in 2009 and rebranded…

  • Utah strikes unique deal on health insurance exchange

    CarlaA
    13 May 2013 | 8:30 am
    Politico — HHS and Utah reached an agreement that allows Utah to continue to operate its Avenue H exchange for small businesses, while the federal government will implement an exchange for individuals. Utah Gov. Gary Herbert viewed the agreement as a victory, but consumer advocates are concerned that people using Avenue H won’t learn about potential tax credits or Medicaid eligibility.
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    GCCapitalIdeas.com

  • Week’s Top Stories: May 20 - 24, 2013

    GC Editor
    24 May 2013 | 5:14 am
    Guy Carpenter Asia-Pacific Climate Impact Centre Publishes Fourth Annual Report on Climate Issues:  The Guy Carpenter Asia-Pacific Climate Impact Centre (GCACIC), a joint initiative of Guy Carpenter... Continue reading...

  • GC Securities* Completes Catastrophe Bond Blue Danube II Ltd. Series 2013-1 Notes for Allianz

    GC Editor
    23 May 2013 | 11:00 pm
    GC Securities, a division of MMC Securities Corp., a U.S. registered broker-dealer and member FINRA/SIPC, today announced the placement of the Series 2013-1 Notes, with notional principal of... Continue reading...

  • Chart: 2013 144A Catastrophe Bond Issuance

    GC Editor
    22 May 2013 | 10:00 pm
    Details on each transaction completed during 2013 year to date are presented.   Click here to view additional materials in GC Capital Ideas’ Chart Room >> Click here to register to... Continue reading...

  • U.S. Severe Weather Outbreak

    GC Editor
    22 May 2013 | 3:06 pm
    Severe weather hit the central United States over the last several days, spawning several tornadoes, large hail and damaging straight-line winds. The town of Moore, Oklahoma experienced the worst of... Continue reading...

  • Chart: Risk Capital Outstanding

    GC Editor
    21 May 2013 | 10:00 pm
    Total risk capital outstanding increased during the first quarter of 2013, reaching an all-time high water mark of USD15.0 billion - up from USD14.83 billion at year-end 2012, representing a net... Continue reading...
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    InsureBlog

  • Obamacare | GSU Prof. Bill Custer Whiffs It

    25 May 2013 | 6:55 am
    According to Georgia Health News citizens of the Peach State will have 7 (but in reality only 6) carriers to pick from when the 2014 Obamacare exchange, uh, marketplace rolls out this fall. Aetna, Alliant, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia, Coventry, Humana, Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, and Peach State will offer a range of plans for individuals in Georgia as part of the Affordable Care Act’s exchange, or “marketplace,” which will debut in 2014. Aetna is/will be buying Coventry so really only 6 players. But that isn't where Custer made his last stand. It was this comment that…

  • Excessive Hospital Profits

    24 May 2013 | 12:42 pm
    These days it seems like everyone is a financial expert and wants to cast stones at people or companies they believe are "excessively wealthy" or "unjustly profitable". The latest group is, of all people, a nurses association, that claims that hospitals are now the villains raking in obscene profits. The nurses' research found what appear to be staggering statistics: U.S. hospitals charge on average $331 dollars for every $100 of their total costs, a 331 percent charge-to-cost ratio. From 2009 to 2011 (the most recent year for which the data is available), hospital charges lunged upward by 16…

  • Outstanding Carrier Trick

    24 May 2013 | 11:00 am
    As we reported almost 8 years ago, in our exclusive interview with its Medical Director Dr Dexter Campinha-Bacote, Aetna has long been in the forefront of health care transparency. Now, our good friend David Williams blogs that the carrier has "won an Award of Distinction  for its short videos designed to help members comprehend and use their benefits." David offers some great reasons why he approves of this development, and singles out Aetna's terrific payment estimator in particular: Kudos, Aetna! Original content copyright © InsureBlog

  • About that Union Label

    24 May 2013 | 9:30 am
    Nice to see the legacy media catching up with us: "[S]ome unions leaders have grown frustrated and angry about what they say are unexpected consequences of the [ObamaTax] ... The problem lies in the unique multiemployer health plans that cover unionized workers ... union plans were already more costly to run than traditional single-employer health plans. The [ObamaTax] has added to that cost" Gee, who could have seen that coming?Oh, yeah.And it's not just the unions, either. A large majority of Americans (56%) believe it would be "[b]etter to go back to previous system" (pre-ObamaTax).And…

  • What could *possibly* go wrong - An Update

    24 May 2013 | 7:00 am
    Last week, we noted that the IRS was knee-deep into building the enforcement mechanisms for the ObamaTax. But just how deep are they really? This deep:"The Internal Revenue Service ... has created eight offices and special "teams" to handle the chore, way more than initially revealed."And just how "special" are those teams? Here's 1000 words on them: [Click graphic to embiggen] Original content copyright © InsureBlog
 
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    Workers Comp Insider

  • Health Wonkery, Nightclub Fire Fine, Don't Fry Day, Manufacturing Trends & More

    Julie Ferguson
    23 May 2013 | 7:54 am
    Health Wonkery - At Wright on Health, Brad Wright has posted the Sardonic Edition of Health Wonk Review. He takes a bit of a tongue in cheek approach to the seriousness of our usual wonkery. Harumph, harumph. Check it out. Station Nightclub Fire Fine in Dispute - Michael and Jeffrey Derderian, owners of the Station Nightclub, are protesting a $1...

  • Workers Compensation Looking Up?

    Jon Coppelman
    20 May 2013 | 9:56 am
    Dennis Mealy, chief actuary for NCCI, has issued his state of the line report on workers compensation. There's a lot of good news for insurers, along with a few little red flags that might well morph into big banners of bad news. Mealy's presentation will soon be available as a webinar at the NCCI site, but for the moment, let's...

  • Risk, Austerity, ACA, Women in Manufacturing, Terrorism & other news of note

    Julie Ferguson
    15 May 2013 | 7:03 am
    Our New Zealand blogger pal Russell Hutchinson lends a global perspective to this week's Cavalcade of Risk #183 - check it out! Austerity's impact on public health - over at Managed Care Matters, Joe Paduda looks at the impact that financial austerity measures in Greece and Iceland have had on public health, suicide rates, hospital admissions, and other measures of...

  • Health Wonk Review and other occupational news of note

    Julie Ferguson
    9 May 2013 | 12:25 pm
    Joe Paduda has a not-to-be-missed robust edition of Health Wonk Review posted at Managed Care Matters. It covers health care cost trends, reform implementation, motivations and more. Get your biweekly dose of health wonkery from the best in the blogosphere to stay current on the trends. And in other news ... Texas tragedy & insurance matters Dallas News reporters Doug...

  • Annals of Claims Management: Full Catastrophe Denial

    Jon Coppelman
    7 May 2013 | 1:54 pm
    In the Insider's decade of exploring workers comp, we have encountered many unusual instances of compensability, legitimate claim denials and outright fraud. But rarely have we found cases where a claims administrator, in this case, a TPA, simply refuses to pay for medically necessary treatment. The saga of the late Charles Romano reminds us that the great bargain of workers...
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    Managed Care Matters

  • New – and more useful – definitions of old words

    Joe Paduda
    24 May 2013 | 3:23 am
    Brad Wright brings his sardonic flair to this week’s edition of Health Wonk Review; very funny and frightening at the same time. To wit: “Austerity, in the economic sense, is the approach to balancing your household budget by spending less money and quitting your job.” 

  • Random observations from NCCI

    Joe Paduda
    24 May 2013 | 2:59 am
    NCCI’s conference is perhaps the best-produced workers comp conference I’ve attended.  Great support for speakers (thanks Mona Carter, Peter Burton, Lisa Lancelotti, Linda Simmonds et al), well run, tightly organized, and substantive as well. Several single-state payers I spoke with at the conference said they attend NCCI, and other national conferences and affiliate with national trade groups (AIA) for a very good reason – they know it is important to keep abreast of national trends, share ideas with other payers, and avoid the perils of navel-gazing.  Less insightful…

  • Kudos to CorVel

    Joe Paduda
    20 May 2013 | 2:51 am
    I’ve often had issues with CorVel for their billing practices and other matters, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t applaud the managed care firm for their willingness to fire a doctor that was allegedly prescribing Wasabi Rub, theramine pills, Gaba-2k rubs, and surface EMGs, some of which were allegedly upcoded to needle EMGs – and then refusing to discuss these treatments with peer review docs. The incident happened – of course – in California, where CorVel and Dr Douglas Rogers have been in litigation for several years over CorVel’s summary termination…

  • Where’s manufacturing going – and why should you care

    Joe Paduda
    17 May 2013 | 8:03 am
    David Chavern of the US Chamber of Commerce focused on manufacturing in his talk at NCCI, and his talk was one of the most important I’ve heard for we in the workers comp world. Why? Because manufacturing jobs drive workers comp premium. The manufacturing jobs we have lost are predominantly relatively low-skill level, low-tech, low-value-added sectors such as textiles, clothing.  That said off-shoring of higher-level jobs such as semi-conductors has also been significant – but this off-shoring is now viewed as a mistake.  We’ve lost the ability to innovate via rapid…

  • NCCI – Gergen’s observations

    Joe Paduda
    17 May 2013 | 6:48 am
    A few random observations and perhaps an insight or two. Keynote speaker David Gergen noted this morning that the recent favorable news about the deficit and its impact on debt may well be counter-productive as it takes the pressure off Congress and the President to deal with the debt while investing in education and infrastructure.  Soundbite – Mexico is investing more than we are in infrastructure. Mexico.   Gergen also does not believe there’s going to be much progress in Washington over the next few years; Obama’s over-reaching post-election has come up against the…
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    Insurance Industry Blog

  • Weighing the Risk of Thunderstorm and Tornado Events

    Claire
    22 May 2013 | 6:50 am
    It’s a little ironic that in the weeks preceding the devastating May 20, 2013 Moore, Oklahoma tornado, there were numerous reports of how 2013 tornado activity was at a record low. Unfortunately, these headlines may give the mistaken impression that the United States is in a period of lower risk for tornadoes, and/or that the costs from such events are declining. Yet as we have seen repeatedly during hurricane, tornado and wildfire seasons, it only takes one storm, or event, to remind us of the dangers and ongoing risks. Dr. Robert Hartwig, president and chief economist of the I.I.I.,…

  • NCCI: Workers Comp Outlook Encouraging

    Claire
    20 May 2013 | 5:37 am
    The workers compensation insurance market showed some signs of recovery in 2012, according to the annual “State of the Line” report from NCCI. Among the positives, the combined ratio for workers compensation improved for the first time since 2006, premium grew for the second consecutive year, and clam frequency declined significantly for the first time since 2009. The workers compensation calendar combined ratio was 109 in 2012, a six-point decrease from 2011. While a 109 combined ratio is far from satisfactory, the decline is welcome, NCCI said. The accident year combined ratio also…

  • Global Economic Recovery Spurs Demand for Insurance

    Claire
    17 May 2013 | 5:00 am
    The United States and Japan will remain the largest insurance markets in 2020, while China will rise to third place, according to a study by Munich Re. Munich Re’s Insurance Market Outlook 2013 indicates that the global insurance market is set for strong growth in the years to come, with growth rates especially strong in emerging countries. As a result the global rankings of the largest primary insurance markets will change over time. While China was only in 15th place in 2000 in terms of total premium income, in 2010 it had already reached sixth place, and in 2020 is likely to be ranked as…

  • Aon: Growing Impact of Terrorism on Business

    Claire
    15 May 2013 | 5:27 am
    A continued threat of a terrorist attack or political violence exists in 44 percent of countries, according to Aon’s 2013 Terrorism and Political Violence Map. Aon says this trend is especially prevalent in African and the Northern African countries, with the worst affected being Afghanistan, India, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Russia, Somalia, Syria, Thailand and the Yemen. The Middle East and North Africa region saw the highest proportion of countries with a terrorism and sabotage peril, at 85 percent. Despite 19 countries showing improved terrorism and political violence ratings, including…

  • MarketScout: P/C Rates Edge Upward

    Claire
    10 May 2013 | 4:50 am
    Online insurance exchange MarketScout says the U.S. composite rate index for property, casualty and professional liability business rose 5 percent in April 2013, matching the increase from March 2013. Commercial property and workers’ compensation rates led the way with rate increases of 6 percent in April. Jumbo accounts (over $1 million premium) once again came into favor as the rate increases moderated from 5 percent in March to 3 percent in April. Richard Kerr, CEO of MarketScout, said: The market is bumping along in a continued slow but steady path towards overall increases. For the…
 
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    NewAmerica.net Blog Posts

  • "Do I Have Any Business Being a Doctor?" at Zocalo

    Joe Colucci
    20 May 2013 | 2:46 pm
    Our former intern, Catherine Jameson, has just written a fantastic post for Zocalo Public Square on her decision to become a doctor. It's a remarkably human story, and she demonstrates exactly the kind of compassion that doctors need to have for their patients in order to keep the medical system in check.Go read it!

  • What a week!

    Joe Colucci
    2 May 2013 | 11:42 am
    Medicaid in OregonFirst, the big one: yesterday afternoon kicked off a flurry of discussion - some of it rather heated - about the most recent paperungated version) to come out of Oregon’s Medicaid program. In case you’ve forgotten: a few years ago, Oregon had money to expand Medicaid enrollment - but they didn’t have enough to cover everyone who was eligible. So the state created a list of around 90,000 people, and enrolled 10,000 - giving people the opportunity to apply through a random lottery. That created an incredible research opportunity - the randomized design allows researchers…

  • Are Work Hour Restrictions Putting Patients at Risk of Medical Errors?

    Joe Colucci
    11 Apr 2013 | 9:52 am
    In July of 2011, as that year’s class of freshly-minted physicians began its journey through residency, the American College of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) instituted a 16-hour limit on shift length for first year residents (interns) with the goal of improving intern well-being and patient safety.  The guidelines also indicated that shifts should be separated by at least eight hours of “off” time.  This change followed the 2003 ACGME guidelines, which limited resident work weeks to no more than eighty hours.While limiting shift length seems like it should be a bedraggled…

  • BBC: Overuse of Hysterectomies in India

    Joe Colucci
    7 Feb 2013 | 1:14 pm
    A BBC report from earlier this weeks makes it very clear: overuse of elective medical procedures is not just an American problem, or even just a developed-world problem. The report tells the story of women in a number of rural villages in India, where hundreds of women have been convinced, cajoled, and frightened into having hysterectomies they almost certainly didn't need.The story suggests that the procedures are probably being done to make money for unscrupulous local doctors. The docs work in India's private medical system, but the public insurance program for the poor allows patients to…

  • Ideas for a Smarter SNAP

    Joe Colucci
    4 Jan 2013 | 12:37 pm
    The first article in last week's Journal of the American Medical Association, coauthored by Health Policy Senior Fellow Susan Blumenthal, presents a compelling argument that the SNAP program (formerly food stamps) is contributing to the growing obesity problem, particularly among low-income children. If we want to keep people healthier in the long run--and better control our healthcare spending at the same time--it's worth thinking about ways to help SNAP beneficiaries stay a healthier size.The problem is pretty simple. Federal food assistance programs have been very successful in reducing…
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    Dental Insurance Trends

  • Ask the Agent: How to Select a Dental Insurance Plan for Your Small Business

    dentalinsurance.org
    24 May 2013 | 7:16 am
    Question: I own a small business and have been growing my staff. I’d like to offer dental insurance to my employees. What should I consider when selecting a plan? The Agent Says: When selecting a dental insurance plan for your small business, there are a few important questions to ask yourself and topics to explore. First, you should decide if you want to fully fund a dental program (employer-sponsored) where you pay 100 percent of the employee premium. If not, you will want to look at a voluntary dental program. Voluntary dental plans will be more expensive than an employer-sponsored…

  • ADA Study Confirms American Dental Divide

    dentalinsurance.org
    22 May 2013 | 5:37 am
    By Jenifer Dorsey The American Dental Association last week released a study confirming “a disturbing dental divide in America.” Harris interactive conducted the online study ADA Dental Divide in America on behalf of the Association’s behalf. Highlights included the following: Nearly half of low-income adults say they haven’t seen a dentist in a year or longer 70 percent of middle- and higher-income wage earners have seen a dentist in the past year 7 percent of lower-income adults age 18 and older have had all of their teeth removed, compared to 3 percent of middle- and higher-income…

  • How to Select a Reliable Dental Insurance Carrier – 3 Ways to Investigate Consumer Satisfaction, Company Reliability

    dentalinsurance.org
    17 May 2013 | 9:09 am
    By Jenifer Dorsey Buying your own dental insurance is not as easy as signing up for the first plan that sounds legit. In this blog space and articles within this site, we’ve discussed the importance of assessing your oral health and financial needs before enrolling. Once you’ve determined your criteria and found a plan to match, you may find yourself wondering, “Can I trust this carrier?” The market boasts several individual dental insurance plans, many provided by highly recognized carriers, others by less widely known small and mid-size carriers. Catchy national ad campaigns don’t…

  • Survey Says: Children, Caregivers Need to Brush Up on Dental Health Habits

    dentalinsurance.org
    15 May 2013 | 6:23 am
    By Jenifer Dorsey How do you think your children’s oral health stacks up? Does your family floss daily, brush twice a day for at least two minutes, and visit the dentist twice a year? There seems to be a bit of disconnection in how we perceive our dental health versus our actual oral hygiene habits. In its third biennial national Children’s Oral Health Survey, Delta Dental found “that although many Americans rate their children’s oral health as ‘excellent,’ they need to brush up on some critical children’s dental health habits.” The 2013 survey included email interviews of 926…

  • Ask the Agent: Is there a Waiting Period for Preventive Dental Services?

    dentalinsurance.org
    7 May 2013 | 9:07 am
    Question: I’m entering retirement and taking out an individual dental policy. I would like to maintain my routine visits to the dentist as I always have done. Will I be subjected to a waiting period before my individual policy benefits kick in? The Agent Says: Almost all individual dental plans will have a waiting period for basic and major services.  When you enroll in a new policy you will be subject to these waiting periods, regardless if you are coming from prior individual or group coverage. Preventive care, which includes routine dental exams and cleaning, is not subject to a…
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    Go Health Insurance Blog

  • Is a Shrinking Deductible Health Plan Too Good to Be True?

    Erinn Springer
    24 May 2013 | 11:46 am
    High deductible plans have become a commonplace in today’s individual health insurance market. Still, what some health plans lack in premium costs, they often make up for with high out-of-pocket costs. There is however, another option for those looking to cut costs. Ever heard of a deductible-credit plan? A deductible-credit plan can help healthy people lower their deductibles by shrinking the deductible amount for policyholders who don’t spend a lot on their health care. Say for example, an individual is enrolled in a policy with a $4,000 deductible. If his or her health claims for that…

  • Is Preventive Genetic Testing Covered?

    Erinn Springer
    22 May 2013 | 12:37 pm
    Genetic testing has become a hot topic in recent weeks due to news that actress Angelina Jolie underwent a double mastectomy to reduce her risk of developing breast cancer. Jolie had the procedure done after learning she carried the BRCA1 gene, which increases the risk of a woman developing ovarian and breast cancer. Many are wondering if genetic testing and the steps Jolie took are something other women can copy and whether it will be covered under their health insurance. Obamacare Expands Genetic Testing for Patients Under the new rules of the Affordable Care Act, new health policies are…

  • GoHealth Named Moxie Award Finalist for Breakthrough Digital Company of the Year

    michaelmahoney
    20 May 2013 | 11:25 am
    We’re pleased to announce that GoHealth has been nominated for “Breakthrough Company of the Year” in the Second Annual Moxie Awards! Presented by Built in Chicago, the annual Moxie Awards gather Chicago’s most innovative entrepreneurs for a night of celebration and networking, as they highlight outstanding individuals and companies within the digital industry. Over 7,000 nomination ballots were received for the 2013 Moxie Awards. Each finalist is selected by the 8,000-plus members of Built in Chicago, composed of the city’s leading digital entrepreneurs, engineers, designers,…

  • 4 New Things Obamacare Covers for Women

    Erinn Springer
    15 May 2013 | 12:13 pm
    As new features of the Affordable Care Act continue to roll out, women across the country are set to benefit from increased overall access to health services and equal health care rights. For the first time, many women’s health services that were not previously covered or required co-pays and deductibles will now be widely available. In fact, an estimated 47 million women will gain access to guaranteed preventive women’s health services, including free wellness visits, and many more. Here are 4 things that Obamacare now covers for women with new health insurance policies: Well-woman…

  • Celebrate Women’s Health Week!

    Erinn Springer
    14 May 2013 | 6:35 am
    In honor of Mother’s Day and all the special women in our lives, we’re celebrating National Women’s Health Week. This year’s 14th annual National Women’s Health Week will be observed from May 12 – 18, 2013 and provides an opportunity for women of all ages to take time out to ensure they are doing everything possible to lead a healthy lifestyle. Throughout the week, women are encouraged to take action by scheduling checkups and preventive screenings; also to evaluate their healthy eating, activity levels and mental health. The Women’s Health Movement Recognizing that advances…
 
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    Irish Life Blog

  • Time to start thinking about the skin you’re in

    TJ Mackey
    17 May 2013 | 3:38 am
    So we are into the month of May, into the Summer, although you wouldn’t think it by looking out the window.  With the increase in temperatures comes also an increase in the risk of Melanoma or Skin Cancer. May is National Melanoma Awareness month, and unfortunately it is a condition that is on the rise in this country.  Even though there is no comparison with the weather, more people now die of Melanoma in the UK than in Australia. The infographic below shows some facts about claims paid out by Irish Life for Malignant Melanoma cases for the last five years.  Click on image to…

  • How do you put a value on peace of mind?

    Karl Symes
    2 May 2013 | 4:05 am
    “They saw you coming!” My wife on hearing how much I’d agreed to pay for our new double-glazing. I recently got around to buying two things that had been on the “family to-do” list for ages. Our windows had been in the house when we moved in almost 15 years ago and I’d managed to kid myself I was saving money by putting that off – I probably spent twice as much in lost heating. And two weeks ago I finally bought a new car.  I say new in the “new to me” but old to the person who had put nearly 100,000 kilometres on the clock. Still it means that I get to be the…

  • Facebook Like & Share is the new spam.

    Colin O'Hara
    14 Mar 2013 | 9:33 am
    Here’s a little exercise for you: open up your Facebook and log in. Go to your timeline and count the number of posts or photos that have been shared to your timeline by your friends. Now look at those again and identify the number of those that could be considered ‘like and share’ competitions. By this, I mean those which make ‘liking’ and ‘sharing’ the post a condition of entry. On an average day, my timeline is filled with friends, family, casual acquaintances alike, all liking and sharing Facebook pages for no other reason than to be in with a chance…

  • Irish Life welcomes acquisition by Great-West Lifeco of Canada

    Irish Life
    20 Feb 2013 | 7:37 am
      Great-West Lifeco, the parent company of Canada Life in Ireland, has announced that following negotiations with the Irish Government, it has reached agreement to acquire Irish Life. Kevin Murphy, Group Chief Executive, Irish Life; Michael Noonan, Minister for Finance; Allen Loney, President and CEO, Great-West Lifeco. The transaction is a major vote of confidence in Ireland and will be one of the largest overseas investments ever in the Irish Financial Services sector. “A transformational deal for our respective businesses in Ireland and for our customers” – Kevin…

  • Last year Irish Life staff raised €140,000 for charity

    Cormac
    6 Feb 2013 | 8:06 am
    Another year has passed and it has seen an exceptional response from Irish Life staff with a massive €70,000 raised. This will be matched by the company and given to the two charities voted for by Irish Life staff, namely IMNDA & Haiti Orphanage Project ESPWA Each year staff select two Irish charities, one who do their work in Ireland and the other who do their work abroad. The charities are voted for by staff, and are typically a charity where there is an affiliation, directly or indirectly, with that charity. Since 1996 Irish Life staff have donated €1.25m to their selected…
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    blog

  • Failure Is An Option

    19 May 2013 | 11:00 pm
    My daughter Emily is (was) a high school senior this year, and I just attended her graduation and an orchestra banquet over the weekend, and a lacrosse banquet a couple nights earlier. As a parent, you attend these events and sit and watch with pride at what they have accomplished and amazement at how fast the time has gone. You can't help but marvel at how wise and insightful these young people are yet, at the same time, think about how many lessons and experiences await them. One of the student speakers at the graduation commented on how we tend to mark our lives by the "firsts" and by the…

  • Are You Getting Outpaced By The New Hires?

    15 May 2013 | 11:00 pm
    You may think information about college graduates and new hires has nothing to do with you as an established professional. But I urge you to find out how this is, in fact, directly relevant to you. A recent article in the WSJ, Your College Major Is a Minor Issue, Employers Say, reported on the results of a survey done where they queried 318 companies that hire new graduates. The results were telling of an era that is quickly becoming the new norm. Here are some of the key points I see as critical from the survey: 93% of employers cite critical thinking, communication and problem-solving…

  • What You Do When Class Is Not In Session

    12 May 2013 | 11:00 pm
    I know a young lady who has recently graduated from college and is embarking on her career. A career, which by this time has been well in the works for a few years as she has taken advantage of many opportunities throughout college to pursue interests and demonstrate her motivation, drive, and skills. She is very impressive, and I have already put out recommendations on her behalf. As she was preparing for graduation, we had one of our regular coffee chats, and she was telling me about her career search. The conversation turned to her schooling and the path she'd taken from high school…

  • Sometimes All It Takes Is One

    8 May 2013 | 11:00 pm
    One reason to say yes. Sometimes that all it takes. We can usually come up with a laundry list of reasons why we shouldn't or couldn't do something. But the real challenge lies in asking ourselves why we should do something. You might find that the one reason you should do it makes up for a list of reasons you shouldn't, or couldn't, or don't want to do it. We tell producers and agency leaders this all the time. And sometimes we're faced with our own situations where we need to take our own advice. My daughter is graduating from high school this year, and it's been a year with many difficult…

  • Concerned For Your Future?

    5 May 2013 | 11:00 pm
    You aren't alone. Or, at least you don't have to be. I have traveled more over the last couple of weeks than I ever have at one time in my life. I have traveled to four cities to attend and present at four different conferences. While the travel itself can be tiring, I have finished more energized than ever before. And that energy is coming from the adrenaline flowing from being around such amazing people. For all of the doom and gloom that surrounds our industry right now, I attended four similar, yet very different, conferences where I witnessed very positive outlooks. As different as the…
 
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    Insurance

  • Retirement Strategies Simplified For The 21st Century

    fshaw
    16 May 2013 | 5:00 pm
    With a difficult economy and an uncertain future, preparing for retirement is more challenging than ever before. Your retirement should be full of possibilities, not uncertainties. As you develop a strategy for navigating these uncharted waters, you need the assistance of an experienced financial services group that understands the complexities of retirement in the 21st century. You need a financial services Client Advocate to help simplify the following dimensions of your retirement strategy: Accounting For Inflation Unfortunately, there are many factors that you won’t be able to control…

  • Saving For Retirement: It’s Never Too Soon To Start Strategizing

    fshaw
    2 May 2013 | 4:00 am
    Your retirement may still be years away, but the time to begin strategizing for your retirement savings is now. As you move from employment to retirement, your income changes and your needs evolve. This transition requires careful and strategic decision-making to be successful. Start strategizing your retirement income today so that you enjoy your retirement without worry or uncertainty. Consider the following strategies to help you start saving for retirement today: Retirement Savings Account As you work toward retirement, it is imperative that you begin saving for a time when your ability…

  • Please check out: “The Alleged LivingSocial Hack and Data Breach Highlights Importance of Insurance for Cyberrisks.”

    sgodes
    30 Apr 2013 | 12:48 pm
    The Policyholder Informer blog of the insurance coverage and insurance recovery practice of my firm, Dickstein Shapiro LLP, is featuring my post, “The Alleged LivingSocial Hack and Data Breach Highlights Importance of Insurance for Cyberrisks.” The introduction to the post reads: On April 26, 2013, there were reports that LivingSocial had been hacked and suffered a data […]Read Original Post

  • 7 Financial Services Success Factors

    fshaw
    18 Apr 2013 | 4:00 am
    The term “financial services” encompasses a broad range of client advocacy activities and solutions. When it comes to your financial needs, they are general varied, complex and subject to constant change. That’s why you need to find a financial services provider with the right experience and expertise to help you reach your goals and objectives. To identify the best financial services company for you, look for an agency that demonstrates these 7 critical traits:  Client-Centered Long-term relationships help to foster excellent financial strategizing. The successful financial…

  • Please check out: “Seeking Insurance Under Someone Else’s Policy? Tips for Companies Requiring Additional Insured Status.”

    sgodes
    15 Apr 2013 | 8:50 am
    The insurance coverage and insurance recovery practice of my firm, Dickstein Shapiro LLP, has a new blog, Policyholder Informer.  The Policyholder Informer blog is featuring my post, “Seeking Insurance Under Someone Else’s Policy? Tips for Companies Requiring Additional Insured Status.” The introduction to the post reads: If your company is in the construction field, then you [...]Read Original Post
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    Blog

  • This Memorial Day, Remember Those Who Gave Their Lives for Freedom

    25 May 2013 | 6:00 am
    James Gilbert is director of the AFL-CIO Union Veterans Council.Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer. Many Americans will enjoy a day off with family and friends, perhaps at a barbecue or baseball game. Those times and the memories that are created are precious and should be celebrated. Since 1868, this holiday has served as a moment when Americans remember the men and women of the military who lost their lives to preserve our freedom.In that spirit, I ask that you take time this weekend to do something with your family to pass along the tradition of remembrance. All across the…

  • Shawnee Police Association Members Respond Quickly to Tornado Tragedy

    24 May 2013 | 10:05 am
    When the tornado hit Moore, Okla., on Monday, International Union of Police Associations (IUPA) members Andrew Terry, Jay Keehn, Michael Myers and David Carpenter were quick to respond to the tragedy in their hometown. All of the members of IUPA Local 3 offered their services, as did members of numerous other locals in the area. The response was so overwhelming that officials on the ground had to put many volunteers on standby.

  • Washington Bridge Collapse Reminder of Need for Infrastructure Investment

    24 May 2013 | 9:30 am
    The collapse of the Interstate 5 bridge over the Skagit River in Washington State on Thursday “is a sober reminder” to state lawmakers of the need for a transportation revenue package, says Washington State Labor Council (WSLC) President Jeff Johnson.

  • 10 Jobs You Probably Didn't Know Were Union Jobs

    24 May 2013 | 9:00 am
    When most people think about union members, they probably picture blue-collar workers in factories. Maybe teachers, police, firefighters and other government employees come to mind.But workers in many more fields come together in unions to have a voice on the job to improve their lives and the lives of their families—from rocket scientists at NASA (members of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers [IFPTE]) to actors like Alec Baldwin (a member of SAG-AFTRA) and all across the spectrum of work that goes on in the United States.

  • Under Cover Inside Bangladeshi Garment Factory

    24 May 2013 | 8:00 am
    CBS News secretly filmed inside a Bangladesh apparel factory recently. There they found emergency fire doors blocked and just two fire extinguishers for a 100,000-square-foot area—another 11 shown on an evacuation plan were nowhere to be seen. Recent fires have claimed the lives of more than 400 Bangladeshi clothing workers. 
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    IFAwebnews.com | P/C insurance

  • Policy for N.J., N.Y. businesses affected if Super Bowl canceled

    IFAwebnews Staff
    22 May 2013 | 7:02 am
    DeWitt Stern , the New York City-based insurance broker specializing in entertainment and sports, is offering a policy insuring local businesses against loss of revenue they would incur if Super Bowl XLVIII, to be played Feb. 2, 2014 at New Jersey’s Met Life Stadium, is cancelled or moved out of the tri-state area. Super Bowl XLVIII is the first Super Bowl to be held in an open air stadium in a northeastern cold weather state in its 48-year history. Previous Super Bowls have always been held either in warm weather climates or domed stadiums. According to DeWitt Stern, the policy is…

  • Eastern Alliance, Westfield launch multi-line captive

    IFAwebnews Staff
    21 May 2013 | 12:48 pm
    Carriers operate throughout mid-Atlantic, South, Midwest Eastern Alliance Insurance Group and Westfield Insurance have formed a multi-line captive program for mid- to large-size employers. EastWest Alliance offers multiple products, including workers’ compensation, general liability and commercial automobile coverage. According to a statement from the companies, the EastWest Alliance brand reflects the alignment of Eastern Alliance, a Lancaster, Pa.-based specialty underwriter of workers’ compensation products and services, and Westfield, a regional property and casualty insurance…

  • Shaw to lead Deloitte’s insurance sector, Amoroso to retire

    IFAwebnews Staff
    19 May 2013 | 12:46 pm
    Deloitte has promoted Gary Shaw to national sector leader for insurance. He will replace Rebecca Amoroso, who is retiring. Deloitte’s insurance practice is based in Parsippany, N.J. Shaw will work with the teams serving Deloitte’s insurance clients, as well as functional and regional sector leaders, to coordinate the organization’s insurance sector strategy. Shaw has held a number of leadership roles Deloitte’s U.S. firms, including northeast insurance regional sector leader. Gary Shaw “Gary has already played a key role in the insurance sector with his leadership of…

  • Zurich to refund $4.5 million in disability premiums to New Yorkers

    IFAwebnews Staff
    16 May 2013 | 7:56 am
    Zurich American Insurance Co, has agreed to refund $4.56 million to policyholders of its New York statutory disability insurance policies because the insurer failed to spend at least 60% of total premiums on claims as required under law. The money is being refunded to about 73,000 policyholders through an agreement with the New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS). Most of the policyholders are small businesses, according to DFS. Zurich failed to meet the 60% minimum, called a minimum loss ratio (MLR), because it overestimated the amount of money it would spend to pay claims when…

  • N.Y. Senate passes auto fraud bills, throws down gauntlet to Assembly

    IFAwebnews Staff
    16 May 2013 | 7:12 am
    The New York State Senate passed three bills this week designed to crack down on auto insurance fraud in the state, and issued a challenge critical of the Assembly regarding the bills’ passage. According to a statement from the Senate majority leader’s press office, the fraud has led to injuries – even death – for innocent victims and costs hundreds of millions of dollars a year in higher premiums when New Yorkers already pay some of the highest auto insurance rates in the country. Dean Skelos Senate leaders contend the three bills approved would significantly cut down on auto…
 
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    Insure Life Surpasses Your Expectations

  • Consumer Education: Going Beyond the Fiduciary and Suitability Standards

    28 Apr 2013 | 7:32 am
    In this blog, I write a lot about educating consumers on life insurance coverage options and the ongoing policy management requirements for owning life insurance products.  My goal is to arm consumers with the information that is needed to make prudent financial decisions.  Since life insurance and financial planning as a whole can be very complicated, it is important that consumers understand exactly what they are buying and are not taken advantage of.  This responsibility lies with both the financial professional and the consumer.Industry regulatory and governing bodies such…

  • Don’t Be Fooled By Cheaper Insurance

    24 Mar 2013 | 10:55 am
    In today’s economy, everyone is looking for ways to save money.  When it comes to life insurance, cheaper is not always better.Life insurance illustrations highlight how a policy may perform in the future based on a given set of assumptions.  These illustrations, whether for new or existing policies, are often used to compare the merits of one product to another.For many consumers and agents, product decisions are based primarily on the pricing shown in the illustration.  The quick conclusion by many is that the lower the premium, the more suitable the product is for the…

  • Are life insurance policy reviews all the same?

    16 Feb 2013 | 2:20 pm
    Many insurance professionals have come to realize that conducting complimentary life insurance policy reviews are a good marketing practice.  This has been proven as a way to attract new clients without being pushy; and often times, insurance agents are able to find similar coverage at lower costs since insurance rates have decreased over time.This sounds like a win-win for both the agent and the customer.  Often times, it is.  However, it is important for consumers to understand that all life insurance policy reviews are not the same and that one of the primary motivations for…

  • Fiscal Cliff Impact on Life Insurance Planning

    4 Jan 2013 | 3:11 pm
    The President signed into law this week the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 to avert the country from going over the fiscal cliff. This new legislation includes changes to various taxes that may impact the potential net financial returns on various investments, including life insurance plans. A significant portion of my recently published book, Navigating the Complex World of Life Insurance, is devoted to analyzing the potential financial results of life insurance when compared to alternative investments. The analysis considers the potential net after-tax returns based on ownership and…

  • New Year’s Resolution: Review Your Life Insurance

    12 Dec 2012 | 4:11 pm
    As the end of the calendar year approaches, many people begin to identify New Year’s Resolutions for the upcoming year. Assuming the Mayan calendar is incorrect, I challenge everyone to include the following in their list of resolutions for 2013:Review Your Life Insurance Coverage by the End of the First QuarterIf you own an existing policy, it can be very beneficial to review your insurance coverage with an experienced professional. You may find that: You need additional coverage or coverage is no longer needed You need coverage for a longer period of time You have the wrong type of policy…
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    Insurance Marketing HQ

  • Mobile Paid Search? Targeting Insurance Consumers on Mobile Devices

    bmorin
    22 May 2013 | 11:09 am
    Do you own a Smartphone? How about a tablet? If you are like most people, these devices are an important part of your everyday life. We rely on our phones for a lot more than making calls. In fact, more and more people stay connected to email, surf the web, and shop using their Internet-connected devices. For years we have been hearing how mobile phones are going to overtake PCs as the main way people get online. We haven’t reached that point yet, but the recent mobile statistics are staggering. When it comes to consumer behavior, we see some pretty remarkable trends: • 47% of consumers…

  • Hello, Tarzan: What Is Vine? What’s it got to do With Insurance?

    tnavarra
    13 May 2013 | 5:10 am
    You may have heard about the latest social network out there and available to iPhone users – Vine. The app has been making huge moves in the industry. Compared to other apps of its kind, it has made a huge impact. Increasingly, users of the social media are downloading and “vining” their lives. Right now, you may be thinking what is Vine? Initially, you may be picturing Tarzan swinging through the trees in the jungle – and while this would make a great USE of the app, it is not an actual “vine” at all. Here is what we know about Vine. • The mobile app is owned by Twitter • It…

  • Why Calls to Action are So Important for Your Insurance Content

    eguest
    10 May 2013 | 8:54 am
    By now, you have already taken the time to master the craft of creating engaging, relevant content for your website and audience. However, this is not the only reason your clients should be reading your blogs, landing pages, and even social media posts. As you know, strong and interesting content should convert to sales. But the one element that connects everything together is a call to action. Just as you would naturally include keywords into your content, you should do the same with your calls to action. This is the whole reason you have a website, to sell your products, right? Even if you…

  • Writing the Best Twitter Headlines: Part 1

    bscartabello
    8 May 2013 | 6:26 am
    Twitter feed is rolling, headlines are posted, and follower count is going up – looks like everything is going according to plan, right? Well, not always. Sure, you may have posted that great blog post that you wrote about Insurance Awareness Day, but how do you know that people are ACTUALLY clicking and reading it? According to some studies, on average, 8 out of 10 people will read your headline, but only 2 out of 10 will actually click and read the content. What gives? Let’s talk about writing great headlines and how to come up with the best Twitter headlines. This week, we will begin…

  • A Better Way for Agencies to Blog with Keywords: Ubersuggest

    ntomasso
    6 May 2013 | 6:30 am
    If you’re privy to the changes Google’s Penguin update brought to online best practices as we know it, you know that stuffing your blog posts with product-specific keywords (such as “Ohio auto insurance”) is no longer a best practice, unless the topic is highly relevant to the keywords you’re using (such as “Ohio’s Office of Insurance Changes State Limits for Auto Insurance”). What you may not know is that keywords are still a very important part of your blogging strategy. And there are ways to use keywords to supercharge your blogging efforts to reach broader audiences…
 
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    Insurance Forum

  • Whole Life for Child ?

    jfnyl
    25 May 2013 | 8:56 am
    It's a no-brainer and a must. That's the youngest and healthiest they will be in their lifetime, and will need coverage as an adult. Get it in early. And with rates of return beating savings, why not?

  • Amendment on Life Question

    jdeasy
    25 May 2013 | 8:54 am
    Quote: Originally Posted by axeman462 (Post 695193) I cant call RNA to ask this question since its a weekend. but i had an email this morning from them saying i need to get an Amendment on a life policy signed. There is a spot for 2 signatures: "Owner" and "Insured" The insured is 9 years old. Would it be safe to say just have the mother sign the Owner line and leave the insured line blank? Or should I have her sign the insured line also? Yes, have the owner sign. The owner is the only one that neds to sign any amendment. You might want to put "N/A-Child" on the…

  • If You Could Sell Only One Product Line....

    jdeasy
    25 May 2013 | 8:51 am
    Quote: Originally Posted by InsuranceManMike (Post 695130) If you could only sell one product line (Medicare, FE, DI, etc.), what would it be and why? If you knew what you know now when you started, what ONE product line would you focus on? FE. Beacuse that's all I focus on. Getting into FE was the best decision I ever made for my career. But, for the second question, if I knew what I know now when I first got into insurance it would have been med sups. I wish I met Frank Statsny back then and had the wisdom to follow his system. Of course I would have added FE as a cros sell because that's…

  • Equita: Help Navigating

    jdeasy
    25 May 2013 | 8:47 am
    Quote: Originally Posted by Norwayguy (Post 695194) What I find wrong is a manager holding someone up due to his existing appointments and the agent attempts to comply even getting a release from the IMO but the release contingent on EFES and they refusing and still holding the agent up. It is wrong. Any IMO refujsing to release if there is no debt is just wrong. I get it too about the training but I would let those go too. Why try to force someone that doesn't want to work with you any longer into keeping working for you? It's a nasty secret agreement between the IMO's and the companies. The…

  • Losing Motivation and Drive

    The Colonel
    25 May 2013 | 8:45 am
    Any high-performing colleague's you could meet with and get ideas from on how to get the sales back on track? I'm always talking with the 25 year agents and the 2 year agents and see what they're doing to succeed.
 
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    Kanetix Finance

  • Bring On Winter! Fewer Accidents Occur In Winter

    23 May 2013 | 10:00 pm
    Car accident statistics: Winter this is the season when you are least likely to be in a traffic accident. Based on the statistics provided by Kanetix.

  • Driving Into Car Accident Season

    22 May 2013 | 10:00 pm
    Canadian car accident statistics - when you're most likely to be involved in car crashes according to Kanetix. Kanetix has compiled a list of when car accidents happen based on the details provided by drivers while getting car insurance quotes.

  • Why Commuters Choose Scooters

    15 May 2013 | 10:00 pm
    Why choose a scooter? Drivers across Canada are learning the benefits of scooters; scooters are cheaper than a car, have cheaper insurance and are fun to ride.

  • The Importance of Buying Life Insurance Policies for a Stay-at-Home Parent

    15 May 2013 | 10:00 pm
    Are you a stay-at-home mom or dad? Discover why buying a life insurance policy is necessary for your long-term security.

  • The Cost To Insure A $100,000 Car-Not As Much As You Might Think

    12 May 2013 | 10:00 pm
    What's it cost to insure THAT car? Ever see one of those really high-end cars and think to yourself that you probably couldn't even afford the insurance on a car like that? You might be surprised to learn the car insurance rates on these cars are surprisingly affordable, even if the car is not.
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    Insurance Marketing HQ

  • Mobile Paid Search? Targeting Insurance Consumers on Mobile Devices

    bmorin
    22 May 2013 | 11:09 am
    Do you own a Smartphone? How about a tablet? If you are like most people, these devices are an important part of your everyday life. We rely on our phones for a lot more than making calls. In fact, more and more people stay connected to email, surf the web, and shop using their Internet-connected devices. For years we have been hearing how mobile phones are going to overtake PCs as the main way people get online. We haven’t reached that point yet, but the recent mobile statistics are staggering. When it comes to consumer behavior, we see some pretty remarkable trends: • 47% of consumers…

  • Hello, Tarzan: What Is Vine? What’s it got to do With Insurance?

    tnavarra
    13 May 2013 | 5:10 am
    You may have heard about the latest social network out there and available to iPhone users – Vine. The app has been making huge moves in the industry. Compared to other apps of its kind, it has made a huge impact. Increasingly, users of the social media are downloading and “vining” their lives. Right now, you may be thinking what is Vine? Initially, you may be picturing Tarzan swinging through the trees in the jungle – and while this would make a great USE of the app, it is not an actual “vine” at all. Here is what we know about Vine. • The mobile app is owned by Twitter • It…

  • Why Calls to Action are So Important for Your Insurance Content

    eguest
    10 May 2013 | 8:54 am
    By now, you have already taken the time to master the craft of creating engaging, relevant content for your website and audience. However, this is not the only reason your clients should be reading your blogs, landing pages, and even social media posts. As you know, strong and interesting content should convert to sales. But the one element that connects everything together is a call to action. Just as you would naturally include keywords into your content, you should do the same with your calls to action. This is the whole reason you have a website, to sell your products, right? Even if you…

  • Writing the Best Twitter Headlines: Part 1

    bscartabello
    8 May 2013 | 6:26 am
    Twitter feed is rolling, headlines are posted, and follower count is going up – looks like everything is going according to plan, right? Well, not always. Sure, you may have posted that great blog post that you wrote about Insurance Awareness Day, but how do you know that people are ACTUALLY clicking and reading it? According to some studies, on average, 8 out of 10 people will read your headline, but only 2 out of 10 will actually click and read the content. What gives? Let’s talk about writing great headlines and how to come up with the best Twitter headlines. This week, we will begin…

  • A Better Way for Agencies to Blog with Keywords: Ubersuggest

    ntomasso
    6 May 2013 | 6:30 am
    If you’re privy to the changes Google’s Penguin update brought to online best practices as we know it, you know that stuffing your blog posts with product-specific keywords (such as “Ohio auto insurance”) is no longer a best practice, unless the topic is highly relevant to the keywords you’re using (such as “Ohio’s Office of Insurance Changes State Limits for Auto Insurance”). What you may not know is that keywords are still a very important part of your blogging strategy. And there are ways to use keywords to supercharge your blogging efforts to reach broader audiences…
 
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    McCormick Insurance Solutions, Auto Insurance, Home Insurance, Surety Bonds

  • All you need to know about California SR22′s

    MccormickInsure
    20 May 2013 | 3:16 pm
    All you need to know about California SR22′s. Not everyone needs an SR-22, but when you do, McCormick Insurance does more than just offer to file it. We provide answers to the questions you have about them. Select a question below for additional information. What is an SR-22? An SR-22, sometimes referred to as a Financial Responsibility Form, demonstrates proof of liability insurance.  In other words, it is evidence a driver has an active insurance policy, thus the ability to pay a future claim up to a state’s minimum required limit. Why is an SR-22 needed? In most cases an SR-22 is…

  • Getting a Surety Bond fast in San Diego, California

    MccormickInsure
    1 Jan 2013 | 4:43 pm
    No matter what kind of surety bond needs you have, McCormick Insurance has years of experience and can find you a bond quickly and easily. Many of our bonds are issued instantly in fact. We can also issue you a surety bond no matter where you live in California. Our Surety Bond rates are also the most competitive in the state of California. We also do a full range of commercial bonds and performance bonds (bid bond, payment bond or performance bond) for residents of San Diego, California. Whether you need a DMV defective title bond (DMV motor vehicle bond), a notary bond, a DMV motor vehicle…

  • Auto Insurance for International Students in San Diego, California

    MccormickInsure
    1 Jan 2013 | 4:21 pm
    If you are looking for low insurance rates for auto insurance in San Diego, CA and you are an international student or visitor then contact McCormick Insurance Solutions. McCormick Insurance has been helping the international student and visitor community with car insurance and scooter insurance for more than 20 years. We can insure International Students no matter where they live in California. We have special insurance rates from insurance carriers that want your business. Some policies can be as low as $350 per year for minimum liability. The University of San Diego’s International…

  • Personal Factors that Affect Auto Insurance Rates

    MccormickInsure
    28 Nov 2012 | 10:00 am
    There are a number of factors that can affect the cost of your auto insurance; some that are in your control and some that are not. The industry of course has certain standards and regulations that set basic pricing, but what about those “personal” factors that you can actually do something about? It helps to know exactly what they are. There’s no way that you can change what’s already happened in the past, but you can do something about your future. Follow the suggestions in this article and you’ll eventually start to see your rates come down. Your driving record or profile is the…

  • Insurance Needs for Holiday Travelers

    MccormickInsure
    14 Nov 2012 | 10:00 am
    Are you traveling this Thanksgiving? You might want to take a few minutes before you go to review your insurance policies and potential needs. You’re going to be away for a while. Do you have homeowners insurance? You’re going to be driving, either your own car or a rental. Do you have the proper auto insurance coverage? Contact the car rental insurance agency in advance if you’re flying to another city or state. Their requirements may be different from those of your local car rental office. There are four insurable entities you need to look at when you travel, either during the…
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    Verisk Insurance Solutions Blog

  • Three More 2013 ISO ClaimSearch User Meetings Scheduled

    Louis Riggio
    22 May 2013 | 8:52 am
    To help you tackle your claims management challenges — including new and ever-changing compliance issues — we’ve scheduled three additional ISO ClaimSearch User Meetings for 2013. The meetings are free to all ISO ClaimSearch users and will provide valuable insights for claims and SIU professionals. You’ll learn how to get the most out of ISO ClaimSearch, enhance your claims analysis, expedite fraud detection, and maximize workflow efficiency. Topics will include: updated compliance requirements, including Rhode Island’s new mandatory Medical Assistance Intercept System (for…

  • Cargo and Retail Theft: Three Insights for Insurers

    David Shillingford
    21 May 2013 | 9:40 am
    At the Verisk Insurance Solutions 2013 Risk Symposium next month, Jason Trigg, CEO of the Cardinal Group, and I will discuss cargo and retail theft, the implications for insurers, and how best to prevent those losses. In 2012, transportation and logistics companies reported nearly 1,200 cargo thefts to CargoNet. And for retailers, shrink remains a significant challenge. Whether a company absorbs those losses or passes them along to the insurer, the incentive to minimize them is significant. What can you do to help your clients in every link of the supply chain to lower their theft losses?

  • Vehicle Annual Mileage Now Available with Coverage Verifier

    John Cantwell
    20 May 2013 | 9:44 am
    Verisk Underwriting just announced the availability of vehicle-specific annual mileage and prior coverage information in a single point-of-sale service. Verisk’s Coverage Verifierdatabase has provided auto carriers with detailed information about an applicant’s prior coverage dates and lapses, limits of coverage, deductibles, and lienholder information. Now, carriers can add to that list accurate annual mileage estimates for each covered vehicle, providing faster and more accurate quotes while improving the customer and agent experience. Check out our press release issued May 16, 2013.

  • Do Claims Adjusters Have a “Manual” Problem?

    Michael Rivers
    20 May 2013 | 6:40 am
    Do your claims adjusters rely on manuals too much? While the guidelines can help an adjuster understand your company’s policies, they can still lead to inconsistent application and result in the ineffective use of the adjuster’s judgment and experience. Watch this video to learn how ISO Claims Outcome Advisor® can improve claims adjusters’ efficiency and consistency while making the most of their knowledge and expertise. Learn more about ISO Claims Outcome Advisor

  • Major Medicare Reforms Become Law — Are You Ready?

    Mark Popolizio
    17 May 2013 | 8:41 am
    In a major development on the Medicare front, President Obama has signed the Strengthening Medicare and Repaying Taxpayers (SMART) Act into law. The SMART Act makes major revisions to Section 111 reporting, conditional payments, and other important Medicare Secondary Payer (MSP) compliance areas.  I hope you can join me at the Verisk Insurance Solutions 2013 Risk Symposium  (on June 24 in London) and attend Session 301: SMART Act Becomes Law — How the SMART Act Will Change MSP Compliance. As part of the presentation, I’ll break down the SMART Act’s provisions and discuss how they will…
 
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    InsureDirect.comBlog | InsureDirect.com

  • North Carolina Auto Insurance Due For Overhaul

    Mike Dortch
    16 May 2013 | 9:00 pm
    Post Date May 17, 2013 -  The changes to the North Carolina auto insurance  system were turned down last week  at the NC House of Representative committee level.  The proposal was recommended to allow North Carolina auto insurance companies to individually control their premiums.  This will give them the ability to raise or lower them by 7% annually.  The  proposal will bypass the current NC Auto Insurance System which the North Carolina State’s Rate Bureau wherein insurers are represented and collectively files for premium changes to the North Carolina Insurance Department. The…

  • New Jersey Car Insurance Rates Going Up

    Mike Dortch
    9 May 2013 | 9:00 pm
    Post Date May 10th, 2013 - New Jersey car insurance rates have already been considered the highest in the entire US. Although many people had seen their rates go down over the last 10 years,  some NJ residents are seeing an increase in their rates.  Sadly, others will see their New Jersey car insurance rates go up in the days and months to come. So why has this happened.  What has changed in the Garden State which has caused New Jersey Car Insurance Companies to suddenly raise their customers monthly payments? New Jersey Car Insurance heading Up, Up,…

  • Texas Auto Insurance Companies Victims Of Fraud

    Mike Dortch
    5 May 2013 | 9:00 pm
    Post Date May 6, 2013 - A Chiropractor and an owner of  a  chiropractic clinic in Bryan, Texas admitted to conspiracy after defrauding several Texas Auto Insurance Companies for  nearly 4 million dollars.  The owner, Marion Young, 42 years old, of the now out of business “Private Chiropractic Care”. Young admitted that for two years, he conspired in defrauding Texas auto insurance companies through recruitment of people who claimed to be victims of car accidents.  Young allowed his clinic to be a front for fraudulent chiropractic therapy bills for treatments that were not…

  • Homeowners Insurance Claims From Sandy Nearly Closed

    Mike Dortch
    28 Apr 2013 | 9:00 pm
    Post Date April 29, 2013 - Data gathered from the Pennsylvania Insurance Department, New Jersey Insurance Department, and New York Insurance Department  indicated nearly 95 % of the homeowners Insurance claims from Superstorm Sandy are now closed and resolved.  The data which is updated regularly collects information from all the major homeowners insurance carriers which holds most of the insurance market in areas affected by the storm.  An article in the Insurance Journal states most recent data will show us that there had already been 12000 of claims that are now closed. 303,826 of these…

  • Homeowners Insurance Company Scam Uncovered

    Admin-FVT
    25 Apr 2013 | 9:00 pm
    Post Date April 26, 2013 - A lawsuit was filed recently against State Auto Insurance Company saying the Homeowners insurance company is charging for phantom Homeowners Insurance Rates to it’s customers.  A Homeowners Insurance customer in Kentucky filed a lawsuit siting that his Homeowners Insurance Company has been illegally raising his homeowners rates.  The Homeowners Insurance Policy owners was surprised to find the $235,000 in  coverage for his home had been increased. After calling his insurance agent, the customer was advised his homeowners insurance policy property limit…
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    Life Insurance Insights

  • Indexed Universal Life: What It Won’t Do

    Mike
    23 May 2013 | 6:50 pm
    Indexed Universal Life (IUL) seems to be the permanent life insurance policy of choice today.  That’s because the return from investing in debt instruments (bonds and mortgages), which is the primary investment vehicle for life insurance companies, has tanked.  So, tacking returns to outside indexes primarily tied to equity investments produces higher, projected policy cash values.  Will this IUL advantage hold up?  It’s hard to say.  Though equity investing can be more volatile than debt investing, over the long haul the equities usually outperform debt instruments.  What affect…

  • Today’s Hot Product – IUL

    Mike
    20 May 2013 | 7:33 pm
    Indexed Universal Life (IUL) is the hottest product being sold today.  The policy has been around for a few years, but it is just now beginning to take off.  Why the sudden surge?  It’s because of the incredibly low interest rate environment we have been in for a prolonged period of time.  As a point of reference, U.S. Treasury 20 Year rates on April 30, 2013 were 2.49%.  In 2000 those same rates were 6.31%.  That’s a 60% drop in the past 13 years!  This has impacted the earning ability of insurance companies and especially the pricing of their permanent life insurance…

  • Living to Age 120

    Mike
    17 May 2013 | 12:25 am
    You may have noticed that I have often referenced policies whose premium and death benefit are guaranteed to age 121.  Why bother with such a long term guarantee?  Who lives that long? There are two reasons why age 121 is a good target to use when determining for how long the death benefit should be guaranteed.  First, the difference in premium between, say an age 105 guarantee and an age 121 guarantee is much less than you would think.  So, if your agent has shown you a premium that guarantees to take you to age 100 or 105, ask to see what the premium is for the age 121 guarantee.

  • IRR – The Finite Comparison Test

    Mike
    14 May 2013 | 1:05 am
    IRR is short for Internal Rate of Return.  It can be used as a measure of either the death benefit or cash value of a life insurance policy.  Since the principal purpose of a life insurance policy is to produce a death benefit, that is what I will cover here.  IRR is stated as a percentage.  At the time of death the IRR is the amount of annual interest necessary to equal the death benefit paid in that year. Here’s an actual example:  A married couple, both age 60 preferred non-tobacco users, are purchasing a $5,000,000 Second-to-die policy for estate tax liquidity.  The annual premium…

  • Pay Forever, Or For A Shorter Time?

    Mike
    10 May 2013 | 6:12 pm
    Should you pay your life insurance premium forever, or would you rather be able to stop paying after a stipulated number of years?  That sounds like an easy question, but it’s a little like, “Have you stopped beating your wife?”  It’s a loaded question. With Universal Life, you can design the premium paying period just about any way you want.  The premium can be structured to be level over your lifetime, or you can determine what premium will be required to be able to stop paying after a number of years, but have the insurance continue for your lifetime.  It’s probably a good…
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    SelectNews Blog

  • Memorial Day Part 1: Origin and Family

    SelectQuote
    23 May 2013 | 8:50 pm
    Did you know Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day? Decoration Day was suggested by General John A Logan, leader of a civil war veterans’ association. The first Decoration Day was held on 30th May, 1868. The reason for this choice was that no battle had taken place on this day. In the past, citizens of the United States would decorate soldier’s graves to show support and love. We still see this today, but not as much as we would back in the 1870s. It seems today we are more focused on getting the day off from work and extending the weekend, even if it’s just one more day.

  • May is National Commitment Month

    SelectQuote
    20 May 2013 | 11:51 pm
    The month of the May is National Commitment Month. What does that mean? Isn’t the whole point of being “committed” that you don’t have to worry about being “wishy-washy” or unsure of something? You commit yourself to a relationship because you and your partner want clarification of the status of your togetherness. You commit yourself to purchasing a home because you want to officially live there. These are good points, and to be fair, the act of deciding whether or not you want to invest your time in something is critical. We are glad that you make conscious decisions to…

  • What’s Really Important When Purchasing Life Insurance

    SelectQuote
    16 May 2013 | 11:17 pm
    There are many life insurance companies that just tell you what they offer. From policies to the number of agents, you know that a company will sell you insurance, but you also know that any life insurance company can do that. What you should really be interested in is finding the right place to purchase your policy- a company that genuinely cares about the status of you and your family and who is undoubtedly on your side. Life insurance doesn’t have to be a drag. Yes, the whole point of life insurance is to protect our loved ones in the case of unexpected/expected death and thinking about…

  • If You Have a Child You Absolutely Need Life Insurance

    SelectQuote
    13 May 2013 | 11:47 pm
    You’ll never forget the feeling you experienced when you heard the word about having your first child. Whether you brought in new life to the world or adopted a child into your loving arms, you knew your life would be forever changed. Raising a child is quite possibly the most challenging and time-consuming job of all. After all, you are “on the clock” 24 hours a day / 7 days a week. You don’t truly ever have time off even if he or she is with a babysitter or dropped off at school for the day; your child’s smile is still on your mind. Whenever you make a decision, you…

  • Reflecting on the Important Roles Mothers play this Mother’s Day Weekend

    SelectQuote
    9 May 2013 | 11:34 pm
    “No man succeeds without a good woman behind him. Wife or mother, if it is both, he is twice blessed indeed.” -Godfrey Win Hopefully this doesn’t come as a reminder, but Sunday is Mother’s Day! The special occasion where deserving mothers are showered with infinite love and adoration (as if this isn’t necessary on a daily basis). However, one day doesn’t begin to equate the true value they bring to their families. While dad provides the frame, and kids supply the walls, it is mom who lays the foundation of a home. She is the one who keeps the house, and family,…
 
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    Insurance Thought Leadership

  • Does a Safe Workplace Create Large Profits?

    tbone@isugroup.com
    24 May 2013 | 8:06 am
    Or do high profits create the opportunity for a safe workplace? The success of Paul O'Neill as CEO of Alcoa Corporation has resurfaced in the book, The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business, by Charles Duhiggs. Prior to becoming US Treasury Secretary in the Bush Administration, O'Neill took on the task of turning a "tired" and "floundering" company into a highly profitable and efficient organization. To simplify his formula for success, he created and led a new mindset of safety in the workplace no matter the cost. Employee safety became the main goal of Alcoa. Critics…

  • What Do New Workers’ Compensation Reforms Sweeping the Country Have in Common?

    tbone@isugroup.com
    22 May 2013 | 7:46 am
    AOECOE - Not Just Another Acronym California Senate Bill 863 was passed in the fall of 2012 and went into effect on January 1, 2013. Senate Bill 1062 was just signed into law by Governor Mary Fallin of Oklahoma and will take effect January 1, 2014. On April 30, 2013, Tennessee Governor, Bill Haslam, signed into effect Senate Bill 200. House Bill 154 is expected to go into effect in Georgia in July, 2013. What are these bills? The first of many sweeping Workers' Compensation reforms. A common theme in these bills and other pending reforms is to level the playing field for employers and accept…

  • Unintended Consequences Of Exchange Rate Filings

    tbone@isugroup.com
    21 May 2013 | 7:30 am
    For most states offering health care exchanges, rate filings were due by May 1, 2013. Each carrier hoping to operate within the exchange had to finalize their benefit offering and related rate filing. Some of the results are gradually emerging as regulators review the filings. Some have been rejected, some have been accepted and approved, some are going through various stages of review and revision. The interesting result of this process is finding out what rates will be and what costs carriers expect. Prior to the actual submission process, multiple reports were issued prognosticating what…

  • Choice In Health Care? A Hassle Worth The Effort

    tbone@isugroup.com
    17 May 2013 | 12:38 pm
    It was almost a miracle, an immediate answer to my question about the cost of an ultrasound. "$196 including the interpretation, and we price-match if you find a better price somewhere else." In my eight years having a health savings account (HSA), clear, immediate information about cost has been extremely rare. Most often, "How much?" provokes the dismissive evasion of "It depends" or irritation, followed by "We have no way of knowing." In other instances, office personnel launch into detailed explanations about how deductibles and insurance work in an effort to convince me I don't really…

  • Can Employers Ever Monitor Employees’ Personal Social Media?

    tbone@isugroup.com
    16 May 2013 | 6:57 am
    Yes, but be careful! There is no denying that the use of social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn has exploded. The explosion includes both personal and business use of social media. It also includes use that is beneficial to employers and use that can be very damaging. Unfortunately, the influx of employment lawsuits that have followed the explosion have had limited practical value in guiding employees and employers on the permissible use and oversight of social media in the workplace. While many questions remain, the California State Legislature's recent enactment…
 
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    Shift Insurance Blog

  • How Do I Read a Car Insurance Policy?

    15 May 2013 | 2:43 pm
    Car insurance is a requirement to drive in every single one of the 50 states but how many of us actually understand what we are paying for? A high number of complaints and issues involving insurance claims can be avoided simply by understanding what is covered and what is excluded from your current policy. As simple as this sounds, most people that actually attempt to read and understand their current policy are left with more questions than before they started.  Even the most basic insurance policies can contain anywhere between 20-50 pages of insurance terms, conditions, exclusions,…

  • Are Women Bad Drivers? [Infographic]

    19 Apr 2013 | 8:30 am
    Women have a bad reputation for being a danger on the road, but are they really? According to a study from University of Michigan, 6.5 million car crashes happen when both drivers are women. This accounts for 20.5 percent of all crashes. Accidents with two male drivers make up 31.9 percent of all crashes and accidents with a male and a female make up 47.6 percent of all crashes. Women are actually 27 percent less likely to cause auto accidents than men. Typically, men receive more traffic violations than women, especially when it comes to DUI, seatbelt violations and reckless driving.

  • Free Accident Cheat Sheet

    6 Apr 2013 | 6:10 pm
    Print out the form, place it in your car, and hope you never have to use it. This handy form will tell you exactly what to do after a collision occurs, help you properly document the incident, and assist you with filing a claim. While there are many guides out there that tell you what to do after an accident, most of them simply tell you to asses the situation, document the damages, then file a claim without providing any direct or specific details. Real helpful right.... At Shift Insurance, we have created you a comprehensive accident cheat sheet that will tell you exactly what to…

  • Tips On How To Renew Your Auto Insurance

    18 Mar 2013 | 5:00 pm
    If you’re reading up on how to renew your car insurance, one can safely assume that you’ve gone through the whole ordeal of getting car insurance already. While that may have been a personal challenge you’ve overcome, renewing your insurance is relatively simpler. That said, a little bit of research may literally take you places with your auto insurance.  Here are a few of the great ways to make your car insurance renewal a pleasurable one! 1 . The right time Renew your auto insurance on time. If you wish to opt out of your current insurance policy and go for one that…

  • Full Coverage - What Does It Really Cover?

    13 Dec 2012 | 10:29 am
    By: Raphael Locsin Website: http://www.shiftins.com It is often that you boast of having a ‘full’ coverage, but do you really know what exactly is covered? It is necessary know the definitions of different coverage as this tells you exactly what your coverage protects, from liability and property damage policies to medical bills and GAP insurance. Some of these may be mandatory, others highly recommended and a few others would be value additions to your coverage. It is necessary to understand what each coverage entails. A more detailed explanation and examples…
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    Idex Consulting Blog

  • Competition is Fierce: What You Need to Know About Compliance when Going to General Insurance Interviews

    Matt Green
    15 May 2013 | 2:00 am
    Succeed as an Insurance Broker by understanding the compliance requirements you will be faced with. As the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) tightens its grip on the insurance broking industry, it is vital that Insurance Brokers are aware of their compliance requirements. An Insurance Broker who understands the compliance hurdles that they have to jump through will be an asset to any company as they can ensure that the way they work is ticking the boxes of the regulator. There are three main compliance issues that Insurance Brokers will be faced with in career interviews and in day-to-day…

  • Four Trends for the Future of Financial Services

    Tony Bates
    1 May 2013 | 2:00 am
    Financial Advisors should be aware of these four trends affecting financial services... Financial services is moving quickly and having to adapt to a series of regulatory and consumer-led changes. The financial advice sector is moving particularly fast. Following the introduction of the Retail Distribution Review (RDR), countless consultations into everything from platforms to pensions, and increased regulatory scrutiny, Financial Advisors could be forgiven for feeling that it is difficult to keep up with all the changes. Although not every word of every consultation document will be read,…

  • Regulations Round Up: How Will the ECJ Gender Directive Affect You? [SLIDESHARE]

    Matt Green
    17 Apr 2013 | 2:00 am
    The changes that the ECJ Gender Directive will bring to insurance sales. The European Court Gender Directive has been criticised by the insurance industry as showing a lack of common sense and it is set to negatively affect both consumers and those working in the sector. As of December 21st 2012, insurers can no longer exercise the ability to price risk and offer premiums based on gender, following a ruling in the European Courts that this is tantamount to discrimination. Essentially, it means a price hike for the end-customer as insurers have found it harder to price risk and consequently…

  • Wealth Architect, IFA... What's in a Name?

    Tony Bates
    3 Apr 2013 | 2:00 am
    RDR has changed the titles that Financial Advisors can call themselves - this article contains the differences and discusses what it all means for careers. Names and titles are very important in financial services, which is why there are myriad ways to describe what is essentially the same job. And it’s probably the Financial Advisors who have more names than the rest of their colleagues in the industry.     What will you be called after RDR? In 2013, titles have even greater importance for Financial Advisors as the Retail Distribution Review (RDR) alters the financial landscape.

  • 4 Tips for Dealing with a Sustained Soft Market

    Matt Green
    20 Mar 2013 | 2:00 am
    Four tips for dealing with soft markets to benefit insurance companies and brokers. A soft market is tough for both insurance companies and Insurance Brokers, both of whom will have to work harder to nail down business. And unfortunately there are not many signs of any dramatic market hardening happening any time soon. Insurance business typically works in a cycle of soft and hard markets. The former is a period of increased underwriting capacity that boosts competition and drives down insurance rates. The cycle then turns to a hardening of the market as prices are so competitive and are not…
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    CarInsuranceCalculator.info

  • Rental Car Insurance and Responsibility or: Let’s Play ‘Who Pays Shelley?”

    D. Baughmann
    24 May 2013 | 4:01 am
    Shelley, who recently went on a business trip, rented a car as she normally does for all he business trips. She paid using her American express card and chose to go with the rental agencies auto insurance. A couple of days later, Shelley had an accident that caused a significant amount of damage and sent [...]

  • No Pay, No Play Laws Affect Uninsured Motorist Claims

    D. Baughmann
    21 May 2013 | 4:00 am
    Just because something is the law does not mean that everyone chooses to obey. In the United States, drivers are required to have a minimum form of liability insurance everywhere except New Hampshire, yet there are a number of drivers. According to a study conducted in 2011 the Insurance Research Council, a non-profit , estimates [...]

  • Switch Your Car Insurance Company – The Ultimate Guide

    D. Baughmann
    17 May 2013 | 4:02 am
    Whether you have a choice in the matter or not, sometimes switching car insurance companies is the best thing you can do for your policy and your premiums. When you change insurance companies, there are certain things that you need to keep in mind when conducting your search. Things like understanding how your premiums are [...]

  • Alabama Law Tries to Put a Stop to Uninsured Motorists

    D. Baughmann
    14 May 2013 | 3:58 am
    Although it may be the state law that every driver has to have liability insurance, that doesn’t mean that all drivers abide the law. Alabama has the sixth highest rate of uninsured drivers across the United States. This leave many drivers who have insurance at risk for a potential accident where they will see no pay out [...]

  • Hyundai Recalls Velosters: How Recalls Work And How This Affects Your Car Insurance

    D. Baughmann
    10 May 2013 | 3:59 am
    Hyundai has recently recalled 13,500 Veloster hatchbacks after customers complained earlier this year about shattering sunroofs. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) then launched an investigation and found that there was a manufacturing defect. This falling glass could cause injuries so Hyundai worked with the NHTSA to recall cars from the 2012 model. As [...]
 
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    Insurance Blog | Insurance News & Articles | Quoteline Direct

  • Can your dog invalidate your car insurance?

    qldb_admin
    23 May 2013 | 10:31 pm
    As a nation of animal lovers we are potty about our pets and are often guilty of over-indulgence. Take driving as an example where the majority of dog owners give their pooch the run of the car. Surely there’s nothing wrong with Rover riding shotgun or Fido curled-up on the back seat? The law sees things very differently and if you are involved in an accident your pet could become a very expensive passenger. Careless driving is an offence under section 3 of the Road Traffic Act which states that “If a person drives a mechanically propelled vehicle on a road or other public place without…

  • Six of the Best: Interesting Insurance Stories

    qldb_admin
    20 May 2013 | 10:24 pm
    It’s been another busy month in the world of insurance, with headlines ranging from the sublime (cheaper home insurance premiums) to the ridiculous (a policy to protect against the Loch Ness Monster), here are the best of the bunch: Lock-Up Your Cars Superintendant Gilbert Houalla of Wycombe is starting a one man crusade to stamp-out bogus insurance claims made by absent-minded vehicle owners. The top police officer says “the number of people who leave their cars open with bags on display is beyond logic” and he’s fed up with other motorists being penalised for the “carelessness of…

  • Tips for preventing theft when on holiday

    qldb_admin
    16 May 2013 | 1:36 am
    Having your pocket picked or your handbag pinched is an upsetting experience that’s made even worse if you are abroad. Being the victim of crime can leave you seriously shaken and your holiday in tatters. Fortunately there are a number if practical steps you can take to stay safe overseas. Do your homework Before you go anywhere it’s worth spending time researching your destination. There’s a wealth of useful information online ranging from: informal forums, such as Lonely Planet’s excellent Thorn Treeto more formal sites such as the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Get travel…

  • Does Car Insurance Cover Recalled Vehicles?

    qldb_admin
    13 May 2013 | 1:34 am
    Insurance providers are urging drivers to comply with vehicle manufacturer recall notices or risk rejected insurance claims. Motorists failing to respond to an official recall may invalidate their insurance policy, even if the claim has little or nothing to do with the faulty part. Every driver has a legal responsibility to make sure their vehicle is safe and roadworthy, and by ignoring a recall notice you could be found at fault if you are involved in an accident. Of course the insurer would have to prove that you knew about the recall, and that it contributed to the accident, but…

  • The Most Common Scams in the Country

    qldb_admin
    7 May 2013 | 11:05 pm
    It’ Scam Awareness Month and we are tackling the issue head-on. Yesterday we posted on ‘how to spot and prevent scams’ and today we put the country’s most common scams under the microscope. Mail Scams Mass mail scams target the vulnerable with the promise of a cash windfall. Maybe you’ve won the lottery or perhaps you’re due a hefty refund; you’ve just got to pay a processing fee and the money is yours! By now the alarm bells should be ringing loud and clear: Did you enter the lottery? Have you ever purchased PPI? If the answer is ‘no’ the mail should go straight into the…
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    Find Cheaper Insurance

  • How To Plan A Garage Sale

    BD Williams
    30 Apr 2013 | 6:57 pm
    For thousands of Canadians this weekend marked the kick off to another Spring Cleaning and that also means the count-down to garage sale season begins! If you have found yourself wondering where to store hand me down power tools and … Continue reading →The post How To Plan A Garage Sale appeared first on Find Cheaper Insurance.

  • What I Miss About Apartment Living

    BD Williams
    16 Apr 2013 | 7:10 pm
    With Canadian mortgage rates still a historical low, it’s hard to imagine there are still benefits to renting over home ownership. If you are a homeowner, you know that there are lot of benefits of owning your own home. You … Continue reading →The post What I Miss About Apartment Living appeared first on Find Cheaper Insurance.

  • Pet Proofing Your Home

    BD Williams
    24 Mar 2013 | 6:56 pm
    Can you remember the 80′s comedy starring Tom Hanks called Turner & Hooch? It was about a police officer that brought home a destructive dog because he believed it was the only witness to his friends murder. In one scene … Continue reading →The post Pet Proofing Your Home appeared first on Find Cheaper Insurance.

  • 6 Things That Affect Your House Insurance

    BD Williams
    20 Mar 2013 | 6:41 pm
    Since our last article was titled “6 Things That Affect Your House Insurance” it’s only natural that today’s article would be 6 Things That Affect Your House Insurance. 6 Things That Affect Your House Insurance   Credit Score When applying … Continue reading →The post 6 Things That Affect Your House Insurance appeared first on Find Cheaper Insurance.

  • 6 Things That Affect Your Car Insurance

    BD Williams
    17 Mar 2013 | 10:54 am
    Insurance companies pick their clients as much as their clients pick them. It’s true! That’s why two different insurance companies can have such wildly different insurance quotes. In this article I’ve laid out 6 things that affect your car insurance … Continue reading →The post 6 Things That Affect Your Car Insurance appeared first on Find Cheaper Insurance.
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    The Esurance Blog

  • Supporting Veterans on Memorial Day (and Every Day)

    Heidi Wallis
    24 May 2013 | 5:00 am
    At Esurance, we’re honored to support our vets today and every day. The post Supporting Veterans on Memorial Day (and Every Day) appeared first on The Esurance Blog.

  • Mobile Tools and a Dr. Evil Wheelchair: What Happened at Maker Faire Bay Area 2013

    Anne Le Tran
    23 May 2013 | 5:00 am
    What happens when you invite creative innovators to showcase their skills at Maker Faire Bay Area, the greatest show-and-tell on earth? The post Mobile Tools and a Dr. Evil Wheelchair: What Happened at Maker Faire Bay Area 2013 appeared first on The Esurance Blog.

  • Tornado Season is Here — Are You Ready?

    Ellen Hall
    22 May 2013 | 5:00 am
    Late spring is known as tornado season, but twisters can happen any time of year. Know what to watch for and how to prepare. The post Tornado Season is Here — Are You Ready? appeared first on The Esurance Blog.

  • 4 Tips for Helping Your Teen Learn to Drive

    Anthony Larsen
    20 May 2013 | 9:50 am
    If you can’t keep your cool in a parking lot, you’ll be a basket case on the road.The post 4 Tips for Helping Your Teen Learn to Drive appeared first on The Esurance Blog.

  • Change Your Commute and Your Life on Bike to Work Day

    Blair Cerny
    17 May 2013 | 10:22 am
    Ever wanted to give biking to work a try? Now’s your chance. The post Change Your Commute and Your Life on Bike to Work Day appeared first on The Esurance Blog.
 
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    Health Insurance Trends

  • How to Buy the Best Sunscreen

    23 May 2013 | 2:24 pm
    In our ongoing skin cancer discussion, we’ve addressed looked at statistics, risk factors, and prevention tips including the importance of applying sunscreen. Sunscreen is a key tool in skin cancer prevention. To review: The National Council on Skin Care Prevention suggests applying a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, 15 minutes before heading outside. It should be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently when sweating heavily or swimming. Now, we are going to back this conversation up a bit and take it from the beach/park/5K/summer outing of your choice to the…

  • Temporary Health Insurance is a Smart Choice for Financially Savvy Millennial

    21 May 2013 | 10:54 am
    Many unflattering stereotypes surround the millennial generation and its work ethic, self-image, relationship to parents, and interactions with the world at large. However, the millennials boast a seriously respectable reputation when it comes to financial responsibility. A recent study found that Generation Y—aka millennials—have started saving for retirement earlier than any generation, according to USA Today. Yet, there may be a disconnect when it comes to millennials’ financial savvy and health insurance. This generation’s young invincibles, those who consider…

  • 8 Top Tips for Skin Cancer Prevention

    16 May 2013 | 1:14 pm
    May is Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month. Last week, in this blog, we talked about the “Dear 16-Year-Old Me” video and learned that 1 in 5 Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer. This week, I’d like to share a few simple tips for preventing skin cancer. Seek shade—When possible, avoid direct sunlight, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are most intense. Apply sunscreen—The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention suggests SPF 30 or higher with UVA and UVB protection. Apply it 15 minutes before heading out.

  • Ask the Agent: Supplemental Insurance Options for Small Business Owners

    15 May 2013 | 7:38 am
    Question: My husband and I are small business owners. What are the advantages of critical illness insurance for someone in our situation? Are there other supplemental policies we might consider? The Agent Says: The optimal candidate for critical illness insurance, in my opinion, is a small business owner or a person age 30 to 50, especially youhave children. The main advantage of critical illness insurance is that it provides a lump sum cash benefit that can be put towards your medical deductible or uncovered medical costs, and possibly more importantly non-medical related bills. For example,…

  • Note to Grads: Consider Temporary Health Insurance in Your Post-College Plans

    9 May 2013 | 9:23 am
    We’re already well into May, which means many college students are preparing for graduation—some have already. It’s an exciting yet often overwhelming time when many things are up in the air, and health insurance is often among them. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, young adults under age 26 now have the option to stay on a parent’s health insurance plan, regardless of school or marital status. Older students and those whose parents don’t have a plan may find themselves uninsured. Policies offered through schools often expire shortly after the final semester…
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    The Murray Group

  • Why Albany Business Insurance Clients Value Trust and Service [Video]

    Ryan Hanley
    24 May 2013 | 7:35 am
    In this week’s episode of the Insurance Solutions Show, Scott Cahill discusses his most recent success story.  Scott built a relationship based on trust and commitment to service with an Albany-based business.   Trust and a high level of service are two attributes Scott knows are keys to success. As you’ll see and hear in the video, Scott was able to commit to a level of service that the insured was not receiving from his former agent.  That is what sealed the deal. As an agency, we’re very proud to have someone like Scott, who is laser focused on doing the right things…

  • How Changing Northway Exits Impacts Local Albany Business Insurance

    Ryan Hanley
    21 May 2013 | 6:42 am
    New York State is updating the Northway If you haven’t noticed, road crews have already been very active on I-87, commonly known as The Northway.  For the past few weeks, traffic has been reduced to one lane both ways on the Twin Bridges, causing major delays and backups that are worse on the weekends. Additionally, there has been much discussion on changing the on and off ramps to exit 4 of The Northway. The New York State Department of Transportation currently has two alternatives on the table that would require changing the ramps in an effort to resolve traffic issues associated…

  • Real Estate Appraisal Process for New York Home Buyers [Video]

    Ryan Hanley
    20 May 2013 | 10:10 am
    In this week’s episode of the Mortgage Monday video show, hosts Jim Cardinal and Alexis Meeks discuss the real estate appraisal process for New York home buyers. It’s important to understand that under New York regulations mortgage brokers cannot communicate directly with real estate appraisers. There are two main ways that mortgage brokers contract for real estate appraisals: Using a separate in-house department for the real estate appraisal. Hiring a 3rd party real estate appraisal firm to the work. Get the full detail in this video: (if you can’t see the video click here)…

  • Not All Albany Mortgage Pre-Approvals Are the Same | Mortgage Monday [Video]

    Ryan Hanley
    13 May 2013 | 11:00 am
    In this week’s episode of the Mortgage Monday video show, Jim Cardinal and Alexis Meeks warn that not all Albany mortgage pre-approvals are the same. There are many companies that offer Albany mortgage pre-approvals to new home buyers, but that doesn’t mean that consumers should jump at the first offer given. Each bank has it’s own Albany mortgage pre-approval process with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Jim Cardinal gives you some great tips to consider the next time you’re looking for a mortgage. Watch this video for the entire story: (if you can’t see…

  • A Story about the Implications of Not Buying Life Insurance [Video]

    Ryan Hanley
    10 May 2013 | 8:39 am
    In episode #4 of the Albany Insurance Solutions Show with Scott Cahill, we hear a story about a local Albany family who chose not to purchase life insurance as part of their family protection program. Thousands of people buy life insurance every day, but even more people choose not to purchase life insurance. The decision to buy life insurance is personal and unique to everyone, but, as Scott explains, there are repercussions to waiting as he as seen first hand. Watch this week’s video to get the full story: (If you cannot view the video, click here) Scott Cahill is a financial advisor…
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    Scarsdale Insurance, NY

  • Advocate Brokerage’s Jeffrey Koslowsky Honored by Greyston Foundation for His Work as Chairman of the Board

    Scarsdale Insurance
    24 May 2013 | 1:06 pm
    Jeff Koslowsky, Managing Member of Indigo Asset Management and CFO ofAdvocate Brokerage, was joined by his wife Denise and sons Kyle and Samwhen he was honored for his work as the former chairman of the GreystonFoundation at an event held on May 22 in Yonkers. Gold Sponsor Members from the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies with RozBinday, Jeffrey Koslowsky, and Denise Koslowsky of Advocate Brokerage.Chubb contributed $10,000 in support of the Greyston Foundation, whichhonored Jeff at a May 22 benefit for his work as the former chairmanof the Greyston Foundation board. Audrey Brenya, Kathleen…

  • Some Tips for Safe Memorial Day Driving “>Every

    Scarsdale Insurance
    21 May 2013 | 10:15 am
    Some Tips for Safe Memorial Day Driving Every year during the annual Memorial Day Weekend holiday period, law enforcement agencies join forces day and night, from coast-to-coast, for an enforcement blitz that delivers on the message Click It or Ticket. Why? Because for the past six years, according to the National Safety Council, the Memorial Day holiday weekend has averaged 11.5% more traffic fatalities, about 420 each year, than similar non-holiday periods. This is likely due in part to increased travel, but also to impaired driving and other behaviors more likely to occur around a holiday.

  • Advocate Brokerage Is Proud to Support Greyston’s Annual Gala

    Scarsdale Insurance
    20 May 2013 | 8:16 pm
    In Honor of Our Own Jeffrey Koslowsky Jeff Koslowsky, CFO of Advocate Brokerage, will be honored on Wednesday evening, May 22, by the Greyston Foundation in Yonkers, NY. For more than 30 years, the Greyston Foundation has been a pioneer in social enterprise creating jobs and providing integrated programs that move individuals toward self-sufficiency. The event will be held at X20 Xaviar’s on the Hudson in Yonkers from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. If you would like to join us for ticket information,please visit – http://www.nycharities.org/Events/EventLevels.aspx?ETID=5791 As the former board…

  • Greyston to Honor Jeffrey Koslowsky

    Scarsdale Insurance
    17 May 2013 | 7:40 am
    Advocate Brokerage is proud to support Greyston Foundation on the occasion of its 30th Anniversary Gala on May 22nd at X20 Xavier’s on the Hudson, 71 Water Grant Street in Yonkers. The Greyston Foundation will be honoring Advocate’s Brokerage’s Jeffrey Koslowsky for service as Chairman of the Board. For tickets, please go to: http://www.nycharities.org/Events/EventLevels.aspx?ETID=5791

  • A Westchester Earthquake? Remember Aug. 23, 2011?

    Scarsdale Insurance
    17 May 2013 | 7:36 am
    (In the photo above, businesspeople gathering outside 40 Wall Street in New York City on August 23, 2011, in the wake of a 5.8 earthquake in Virginia. Photo by Ace Tabak, via Wikipedia) Many homeowners learned a valuable lesson during Hurricane Sandy – have insurance for the unexpected.  Policy owners with the foresight to have flood insurance basically rode out the storm. So what other catastrophes should one prepare for in the future?  Did you know that between 1970 and 2006 there are have been 25 earthquakes reported in Westchester according to instruments a Lamont-Doherty Observatory…
 
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    Insurance Marketing Blog

  • The Insurance Agency Facebook Marketing Strategy That Works

    John F. Carroll
    21 May 2013 | 9:13 am
    A lot of insurance agents are frustrated with Facebook. They ask me things like: “What can I post about insurance that’s interesting?” “Where will I find the time to do all this?” “How is this going to get me more quotes?” These are all valid concerns and to be 100% honest with you, I think a lot of insurance agents will never crack that code. Developing a Facebook page about insurance that people actually care about is a HUGE challenge that can take A LOT of time. That’s why I wanted to teach you a Facebook marketing strategy that: Anyone can…

  • Networking Tips for Insurance Agents: 34 Smart Ideas

    John F. Carroll
    14 May 2013 | 10:24 am
    I don’t like networking events. I don’t like the fake smiles, cheesy jokes, overbearing personalities, awkward conversations, and unsolicited advice. And of course I can’t stand the sales pitches for crap I will never ever buy. On the bright side… sometimes there’s alcohol. Although I’m a die-hard internet marketing guy I know these two things as fact: The more people you know the more insurance you sell. Networking events are one of the best ways to meet people. So I figured, considering my disdain for networking events, I would be the perfect person to…

  • How to Get Your Contact Info In Your Client’s Phone Instantly

    John F. Carroll
    7 May 2013 | 7:24 am
    Getting your contact information into a client’s cell phone is a huge marketing opportunity for insurance agents. Clients with your contact info in their phone: Refer you more since they always have your contact info handy. Have a better customer experience since they’ll call you before a small problem becomes a big problem. Buy more lines of insurance because they’ll call you about another coverage before it slips their mind. Have smoother claims because they’ll be able to reach you throughout the claim process if there’s a concern. (especially right after it…

  • Facebook EdgeRank Explained: What Insurance Agents Need to Know

    John F. Carroll
    30 Apr 2013 | 7:10 am
    Your number of Facebook Fans is irrelevant. Okay… that’s not entirely true but I’m trying to make a point: It doesn’t matter how many Facebook fans you have if none of them ever see your content. This is a major problem for the majority of insurance agents on Facebook. You see, Facebook is giving more visibility to major brands and less to small businesses like your agency. If you or your staff are spending any time or money on Facebook marketing this is a situation you need to understand. It has to do with EdgeRank, which I’ll explain below, but first I’m…

  • How to Find Trustworthy Marketing Companies for Insurance Agents

    John F. Carroll
    23 Apr 2013 | 7:53 am
    When’s the last time you made a bad purchase for your business? Don’t lie. For me it was just last week. Last Wednesday I found out a service I used on one of my websites (not this site) had been sending my visitors to a different website against their will. I felt angry. I felt betrayed. I felt dumb. I also felt poor because the lost traffic over several months cost me a lot of money! The experience got me thinking about how hard it can be to find trustworthy companies online and I thought about all the times I’ve seen insurance agents pour thousands of dollars into…
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    Life Insurance Quotes

  • 4 Reasons Variable Life can be a Great Investment

    Marlene Brown
    23 May 2013 | 12:15 am
    Variable life insurance is a permanent life insurance policy. The value of it will vary depending on the performance of the fund that it is invested in. It is rather like a mutual fund in this respect but it is only available within a life insurance policy. This means that it is normally only possible to cash it in if the investor dies. As the money is being invested, it is good for someone who is young and will have a long term until a claim is made on the insurance. This is because investments tend to perform better over a longer term. There are many advantages of this type of life…

  • A Financial “To Do List” for the Newly Engaged Couple

    Marlene Brown
    20 May 2013 | 3:51 pm
    A marriage requires a substantial amount of teamwork, as well as each partner understanding the role they play within the marriage. This combined with dedication, love, and preservation allows for a happy and fulfilling union. It is important to start off right with an engagement, as it is the entrance to a new life. As you begin your new phase in life, you must ensure that your financial wellbeing as a couple starts in a good place. Money problems are the number one issue that couples fight over, and can often lead to an unhappy marriage and eventually divorce. Working together to achieve…

  • Is it Necessary to Have Income Insurance?

    Marlene Brown
    17 May 2013 | 11:30 am
    Income insurance is a type of insurance used to protect against your inability to work for any reason.  The payout is usually over the period of time that you are unable to work to supplement your lost income. Income insurance is not the same thing as life insurance as it does not depend on your death.  A general rule of income insurance is that it will cover at most 75% of your gross income. It is not for those who have been fired, have a healthy normal pregnancy, are disabled due to AIDS or HIV, have a self-inflicted injury, abuse drugs or alcohol, or are involved with any criminal acts.

  • Estate Planning is not Just for the Wealthy

    Marlene Brown
    15 May 2013 | 1:09 pm
    Virtually everyone has an estate, whether they know it or not. An estate is made up of everything you own, including your car, real estate, house, bank accounts, insurance, investments, and possessions. All those things can’t go with you when you pass away so what happens to them? You probably want to be in control of how your possessions are distributed to the people or organizations you care about, no matter how little you have. That is why estate planning is absolutely not just for the wealthy, but is in fact for everyone. Estate planning allows you to give instructions on what people…

  • Taxes That May be Associated with Life Insurance Proceeds

    Marlene Brown
    9 May 2013 | 12:45 pm
    Many people take out life insurance in good faith that when they die all of the funds will pass to their loved ones. However, what many people do not realize is that life insurance can be taxed in some circumstances and so it is possible that the full proceeds will not get passed on but a percentage will go to the government. Scenario 1 A life insurance policy is combined together with a non-refund life annuity contract, where the single premium is the same as the face value of the insurance. In this case the beneficiary would need to declare their inheritance as income. So they could be…
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