Insurance exists to protect you or an investment; but how do you get the right coverage, and properly utilize it? Often times we pay premiums and get nothing in return! To know more about your policy, and your options, read on.
When involved in an insurance claim, be sure to get as many quotes as possible on your own. This will ensure that you can stand your ground versus an insurance adjuster as well as ensure you are getting a fair quote. If there is a debate, be sure to calmly confront your adjuster and assume that they are not trying to cheat you.
When settling a claim with your insurance company, know how and when you will receive your payout. Many insurance policies are designed on an “actual cash value” basis, meaning that your claim may only be paid once repairs are completed or replacement items are purchased. If you needed cash to fund those purchases in the first place, you may be out of luck.
Whatever kind of insurance you are buying, remember it is little different than any other service you purchase. Comparison shopping will help you find the best insurance deal. Just remember that insurance policies come with different and idiosyncratic terms of service. A policy that looks cheap at first glance might prove to be a bad deal after careful examination.
If you are renting your home from a landlord, make sure you know exactly what the landlord’s insurance covers. You might need to get an additional insurance, known as a renter’s insurance, to complete what your landlord’s insurance does not cover. Do not file claims to both insurances, in case of damage.
When you have found a company to insure you, find out if that company is covered and licensed under the state’s guaranty fund. This fund will pay claims in case your insurance company defaults. Check with your state insurance department and they will be able to provide you with more information.
You can get health coverage for your pet. Dogs and cats are commonly covered, but you may be able to find insurance for other small animals too. Many pet owners elect to go without pet coverage, as they find limited options and high co-pays too difficult to deal with, but some appreciate the added peace of mind.
Your insurance rates are likely set by zip code. If you live near a big city, the closer your zip code to the actual city center, the higher your rates will be. Consider this when looking for a new place to live. Just one zip code away could seriously lower your payment.
Use the internet to your advantage when doing research on what type of insurance to purchase. The internet has a wealth of resources on the pros and cons of different types of plans and great advice on what you should get at different points and times in your life. Use the information available so that you are as educated on the process as your agent.
Keep in mind what items could cause an increase in your renter’s insurance. Many insurance companies will raise your premiums if you have certain breeds of dogs or if you own a waterbed. Don’t make split decisions on purchasing certain items without checking to see if it will affect your coverage and your premiums.
Keep things that could cause injury picked up around your home. It will help to avoid accidental injuries that you may have to claim on your home insurance policy. If you have to file claims on your home insurance, your rates are going to increase. So keeping things safe is going to save you money in the long run.
If you find that you are having difficulty making your premium payment each month, consider raising the amount that you have your deductible set at. You are likely to only make claims on larger damages, so it will not really pay for you to invest the extra money to keep your deductible low.
Check with your credit union, college sorority, and credit card companies to see if they work with a certain renter insurance company. If they do, you are likely to get some great discounts from the company on a renter insurance policy for your apartment that will save you a lot of money in premiums.
If you get into a car accident make sure to call your auto insurance company right away. Hesitating can sometimes make insurance companies flag your account because they suspect that there is fraud involved. Do not waste any time and be sure to call them as soon as you get the first chance.
Insurance is often paid for, yet the coverage is often not utilized. This is a real pity. If you are paying every month, you should know what you’re getting, and feel relatively confident if something happens that you are protected. Avail of the advice in this article and get that peace of mind.
