Saturday, August 30, 2008

Make A Note Of Weather Conditions

Category: Finance, Insurance.

While climate change appears to be causing much milder winters in the UK, there s still every chance for motorcyclists to get caught in a severe cold snap. Make sure your bike is in great condition.



Sudden plunging temperatures can cause major headaches for bikers, but follow these simple Winter Biking Tips from leading motorcycle insurers Sureterm Direct, and you ll stay safe and sound on two wheels- whatever the weather. When snow and ice make an appearance, it s crucial that your motorcycle has been well maintained or serviced. Correctly charging your battery and checking it at least once a month will usually guarantee trouble- free biking. Maintenance free and gel- filled batteries require very little maintenance oance they have been correctly charged and installed but they can still be temperamental if not properly looked after- and they won t take much abuse. Your battery has to work much harder in the winter and can fail without any warning. Make sure your engine s cooling system contains antifreeze at the correct strength and recommended type for your make of bike. Ensure your tyres have a good tread depth and are inflated correctly- the slightest signs of over- wear will be accentuated in snow and ice.


Check that your headlights and brake lights are clean and working properly. OK, weathermen get it wrong every now and again, spells of bad, but generally speaking weather rarely come without advance warning. Make a note of weather conditions. Look at local and national TV and Radio for travel and weather information. Before setting off on a journey, ensure all bike visors and mirrors are clear from mist, frost and snow. Short and long- range forecasts by city can be found on the internet too, using services like Yahoo or Google weather. In extreme weather conditions such as falling snow, ask yourself: "Is my journey really essential? " Be prepared.


That s why it pays to take these precautions. We d all like to think our journey will be trouble free, but when wind and snow combine it s easy for main roads to suddenly get closed or cut- off. Ensure your motorcycle insurance is up to date. Always let someone know your destination and our expected time of departure and arrival. Check that you have a full tank of fuel. Take a mobile phone if you have one, but remember you could break down in a" dead area" where reception is poor.


It could be a long walk to a phone. So pack warm clothing, food and a, hot drinks torch. Being out on the road in poor conditions sometimes can t be avoided. Use main roads which have been salted whenever possible. So follow these general rules for safe biking. Allow extra time for your journeys. Avoid hard braking and acceleration.


Reduce speed in poor visibility and particularly where there is snow, or if ice may have formed. Maintain longer stopping distances- two seconds between vehicles is for good conditions! Watch out for other road users, pedestrians and children, including pushbikes, who may also be having difficulties in the conditions. A wet road surface means you ll take twice as long to stop, so you need to be at least four seconds behind the vehicle in front. In the rare instances you do break down, put these simple guidelines into operation: Stay with your vehicle if possible, until help arrives. If you have to abandon your vehicle, give local police the details and park safely. If you do have to leave your bike, use a viz- vest or reflective clothing to make yourself visible to others.


Winter can bring patches of wildly differing weather on just one journey. Fog is always a winter danger and is a major cause of accidents. So here s some specific advice for specific weather. In these conditions, keep your distance, slow down, and turn your lights on. Don t hang on the tail lights of the vehicle in front- this gives you a false sense of security and means you may be driving too close. Drive very slowly using dipped headlights and use fog lights if visibility is seriously affected.


Don t speed up suddenly- even if it seems to be clearing, you can suddenly find yourself back in thick fog. The trick to biking in these conditions is to be as smooth as possible. Ice, slush and snow significantly reduce the ability of your tyres to grip the road, which means that slowing down, or changing direction, speeding up all become hazardous. Drive slowly, allowing extra room to slow down and stop and remember it cazan take ten times longer to stop in icy conditions than on a dry road. If you skid, ease off the accelerator but do not brake suddenly. Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin, manoeuvre gently( especially into and out of bends) , and avoid harsh braking and acceleration.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Life Has So Many Things To Surprise Us At Every Phase

Category: Finance, Insurance.

Life s circumstances are not always what you might wish them to be.



Life has so many things to surprise us at every phase. Sometimes you may be led in directions that you never imagined, dreamed or designed. We cannot predict them, all we can do is to plan for these hard times that life can put in our share. Though planning is not the only solution for every kind of emergency but when it is related to financial matters only planned savings and investments can prove to be the biggest help. Planning is the best way to deal with any hardship as it enables us to manage a solution on short notice. Today many financial institutions and banks are offering finest schemes to save and invest money.


For seniors, it is pretty difficult to deal with major financial emergencies as they rely only on their retirement amount and monthly pension. These schemes are truly helping people in every phase of their life. To solve their financial problems and to make every process less burdensome there are many life settlement brokers who help seniors in selling their unwanted life insurance policy without any hassle. In normal conditions, it enables the seniors to get financial benefit on their saving as life insurance policy and provide them with financial security in their post retirement days. Though life settlement policy is a plan that helps seniors in making their post retirement life hassle free but sometimes it becomes burdensome for them due to high premium amount. However, it can become burdensome since the senior has not enough money to pay off the premium amount. A life settlement brokers helps such seniors who do not want their policy anymore as he arranges every required term and process for them.


In such situation it is always better to sell that unwanted and unaffordable policy instead of paying high premiums by cutting down routine expenses. If you are fed- up with your expensive policy and want to plan to sell it, then a life settlement broker can arrange a reasonable deal for you. Moreover, he will also do research on current market rates so that you may get reasonable amount for your policy. He will never let you face any problem and will talk to the interested parties on behalf of you. Being a senior you can also find problems in calculating current value of your policy therefore, the life settlement broker will sit with you and will assess the correct value of your policy. Taking help from a life settlement broker is undoubtedly a good idea to sell- off your unwanted policy but always make sure that the broker is reliable or not. With him, you will never have to worry about anything as he will handle everything as your representative.


A reliable broker can sort out every problem for you but in any case if the broker is not certified, you can face a big loss. Once you find a reliable broker to settle your life insurance policy you can be rest assured that you will get reasonable amount for your policy. Therefore, it is always advisable to select a broker after doing sufficient market research as it will also help you in getting an idea about their commission.

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Van Owners Could Be Well Advised To Ensure That They Are Using Money From Their Motor Loan To Take Out Adequate Insurance For Their Vehicle, It Has Been Suggested - Natalie Tewell about Finance and Insurance:

Van owners could be well advised to ensure that they are using money from their motor loan to take out adequate insurance for their vehicle, it has been suggested.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

So, An Umbrella Is Probably Worth It

Category: Finance, Insurance.

At some point, you have probably heard of umbrella insurance, but have no idea what it is. It is a figure of speech.



Well, it does not, first off cover the umbrella you protect yourself from the rain. An umbrella policy is designed to shield you from almost everything that your home and auto insurance does not, as well as fill in gaps in coverage when the limits of your regular policy are exhausted. When and if this happens to you, you need to be prepared. Every day, there are personal lawsuits filed against ordinary citizens, with the reasons ranging from the frivolous to the justified. More often than not, people are sued and have no extra protection to block the plaintiff from going after their personal assets in the lawsuit. An umbrella is often referred to as excess liability. To protect yourself from such a quandary, you need to have umbrella insurance.


This excess liability coverage kicks in when the underlying limits on your home or auto policy have been exhausted, or if you are sued personally for something that neither your home nor your auto insurance covers. The amount of coverage you select really depends on how much you are worth. Depending on the company, you can purchase anywhere from 1 to 5 million dollars worth of excess coverage, sometimes as high as 10 million. If you have 5 million dollars worth of personal assets, you should get a 5 million dollar umbrella. Most insurance companies will not offer you the coverage unless you have both your home and auto already insured with them. It is not uncommon for someone to buy a 5 or 10 million dollar umbrella policy even if that number far exceeds their net worth, because the coverage is so cheap to buy.


Also, the insurer will require that you maintain a certain level of liability on the home and auto policies in order to qualify for the excess policy. The coverage is cheap. Usually, you must maintain at least$ 250, 000 of bodily injury liability per person, $500, and, 000 per accident$ 100, 000 for property damage for your autos, and$ 500, 000 of liability for your home. It is possible to obtain 1 million dollars worth of excess liability for as little as$ 120 dollars. In addition to your home and cars, liability associated with any other conveyances you may have, motorcycles, such as boats, and other recreational vehicles, may also qualify for coverage under the umbrella, depending on the insurance company. The more cars and homes you have, the higher the price for the insurance, but the cost is still low.


You are probably wondering when the umbrella would actually come into play. Or, if that pedestrian then decides to sue you for negligence and seeks punitive damages, your umbrella can be utilized to cover your legal expenses and to pay any judgements levied against you. Here is an example: If you are involved in an auto accident where you crashed into a pedestrian who was walking on the sidewalk, resulting in medical expenses for that person that costed more than what your auto policy covered, the umbrella would be used. It is also important to understand that the excess liability covers you for all sorts of things that have nothing to do with your cars or homes. This includes false arrest, malicious prosecution, false imprisonment, defamation, wrongful entry, invasion of privacy, or eviction. Things such as personal injury protection are covered.


Also, some umbrella policies provide coverage for you if you are sued in connection with any charitable boards or organizations of which you are a member. I hope this has helped illuminate to you the importance of having umbrella insurance. You may have to contact your insurance company and pay an extra premium for this type of coverage. Without it, your personal assets are totally vulnerable in any lawsuit or legal action. Even though multi- million dollar lawsuits are not common, they can happen. Talk to your agent about it and ask how much it costs.


So, an umbrella is probably worth it.

Read more...

A Bonds - Finance and Insurance Articles:

Depending on what type of bond you are investing in, could make you earn a lot. Short term low return bonds are a safer way of investing your hard earned money, Companies and Government Issue bonds to meet their day to day operation.

Fire Losses Can Be Very Costly And Fire Insurance Claims Are Expensive - Finance and Insurance:

Insurance companies provide insurance packages so getting your car and your home insurance from the same insurance provider will enable you to obtain a discount. A large deductible can also prevent you from making small insurance claims as surcharges are already being imposed on small claims.

One Of The Best Ways To Lower Your Car Insurance Premiums For Teenagers Would Be Keeping Clean Driving Records - Kitty Laurich about Finance and Insurance:

Getting an auto insurance for you teenage drivers is very important and while insurance companies charge high premiums as they find teenagers to be at a higher risk, there are helpful ways to help lower your premium payments and to keep your teener s license free from violations. You should educate your teenagers to follow laws and restrictions.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Commercial Use Of Your Van Is Likely To Lead To Higher Premiums

Category: Finance, Insurance.

In the UK, van usually implies a carrier larger and taller than a car and which has a seating capacity of more than eight people. This is because when on the roads, your van faces constant danger, and the damages can be really bad upon collision.



Since a van is often used for commercial purposes, it becomes all the more necessary to go for van insurance. In fact, there is a specialised category called collision coverage, which gives your van coverage, specifically against collisions. The premium your van would attract is also much influenced by the model of the van you have as much as by the use that you are putting it to. You also have the choice of going for comprehensive coverage if you want to give your van protection against fires, earthquakes, storms, and other natural calamities. Commercial use of your van is likely to lead to higher premiums. Thankfully, the insurance providers take these risks into consideration while doing a risk assessment during processing of your insurance policy application. Since a van may usually carry goods, the damage faced due to collision can be higher.


The other factors that influence the rate of premiums is the weight and size of the vehicle. Also, it is imperative that you provide genuine details, else the policy would stand risk of cancellation. If you have a driver to drive your commercial van, it helps if he has a clean driving record. When you go for van insurance, make it a point to ask for quotes from different insurance companies as this helps you get a clearer idea of what policy would suit your requirements the best. And this definitely increases your chances of coming across good deals, where you are able to get hold of cheap insurance deals and a good coverage.

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And Thus Availing A Life Insurance Is Not A Tough Task - Finance and Insurance:

Since our birth to the time of death, risk prevails throughout our life.

The First Step To Filing A Home Insurance Claim Is To Call Your Home Insurance Company As Soon As You Possibly Can - Finance and Insurance Blog:

Something has just happened to your home and you are completely oblivious to what you should do now. Once you have enough time to actually sit down and sort your life back out, you should start the process to file a home insurance claim so that you can begin the process of rebuilding.

Also, Most Critical Illness Policies Cover Total Or Permanent Disability - Finance and Insurance Articles:

When critical illness cover first appeared, only six illnesses were covered.

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Car Insurance Is A Need That You Cannot Forgo

Category: Finance, Insurance.

Car insurance is a need that you cannot forgo.



Insurance is all about taking the necessary precautions to save yourself from the unforeseen costs. Notwithstanding the price of insurance policies these days which discourages many people, it would be too big a risk to be taken when the costs, can be too, when they come excessive to bear. Car insurance is important because when you have a car, you may find yourself losing it if you are not ensured. Your safe driving record perhaps matters most of all. There are different ways to ensure cheap insurance for yourself. Your age comes in next.


However, if you are a young driver, there are other things that you can do to improve upon your eligibility for insurance at desirable rates. Young drivers find it more difficult to find car insurance with reasonable premiums because the statistics do not back them as drivers safe enough. For example adding anti- theft devices shows your concern for your car, thereby reducing the chances of insurance claims. You can collect quotes and compare them to get an idea which one would suit you better. You can visit websites of car insurers to look for good deals. Also when you buy a cheap car insurance policy, it is important to consider the flexibility of the policy, because that reduces the chances of claims being turned down in the future.


Also, the sooner the policy comes into effect, the better. This saves disappointment as you find that your case is suitably covered in the policy and that your claim is settled quickly. To ensure that you derive full benefits out of a car insurance policy, it is important that you never default on your monthly premiums. Also it is unwise to give any wrong information to the insurance company since it may lead to disqualification of the policy.

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The Consumer Is No More Limited Due To Geographical Boundaries, Or By Lack Of Choice - Finance and Insurance:

The power of the Internet as a powerful communication and marketing medium does not need any proof or explanation. Initially, it began as a platform where information could be shared.

Rigs And Wells Insurance Holds A Market Cap Value For Insurance - Finance and Insurance Articles:

With some type of coverage protecting just about every other type of industry and profession, it should come as no surprise that the oil business would carry several different types of insurance protection as well. Some insurance companies specialize only in petroleum companies insurance management, whereas in some others, the oil industry is only a portion of their clients portfolios.

These Days, Accident Insurance Is Also Available Online - Finance and Insurance:

You cannot ignore that contingency is a predominant factor in life. Often, either by us, carelessnesses, or by the other occur which can affect our lives profoundly.

Friday, August 22, 2008

Talking Of Tough Times, One Time Which Can Be Termed As Real Tough For People Is When They Are Down With Some Critical Illness

Category: Finance, Insurance.

One of the joys of living in today s times is the fact that there are plenty of services available to help one out.



It is because of these services that one feels secured and confident that toughest of times would pass by. Services which are designed with the intention of providing maximum comfort to people. Talking of tough times, one time which can be termed as real tough for people is when they are down with some critical illness. In today s times when the price of every object is going through the roof, it indeed is a difficult task to attend such expenditures which raise their head all of a sudden, without any notice. It is not difficult to understand the reason for this. Imagine in this scenario what happens if one is down with some critical illness and does not have enough money to get himself treated.


Sickness insurance is the best service to have in this time as it insures that whatever the cost might be for the cure of the critical illness it would be the insurance company that would bear all the expenses with the concerned person not requiring to pay a single penny. It is here that these services prove their relevance and come for one s rescue. However, to gain maximum from sickness insurance one would do well to take care of certain points. One must also find out that what are the illnesses that one is protected from and whether the company will bear all the expenses that would come on the treatment or only a part of it. First of all one must ensure that the policy comes to life as soon as it is signed. If these precautions are taken then one can be rest assured that critical illness will not pose any threat to people and this menace can be tackled with relative ease.

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There Are Several Companies Which Offer This Type Of Insurance For Cars Or Vans - Finance and Insurance Articles:

There are many reasons why you may not be able to go on the holiday of your choice.

The Amount It Covers Is Really Big - Kayla Herdman about Finance and Insurance:

The main idea behind travelling is to unwind oneself with the purity and freshness of exotic locations forgetting all the fret and fever of day- to- day life.

Who S Eligible For An HSA - Darla Siemers about Finance and Insurance:

Since Health Savings Accounts( HSAs) were created by the Medicare bill signed into law in 2003 they are being considered by more and more Texans as a health insurance option. What s a Health Savings Account( HSA) ?

Factors That Will Influence How Much You Pay For Your Car Insurance

Category: Finance, Insurance.

Most of us are used to spending our hard earned money on buying material assets that includes a home as well as automobiles, which gives rise to the need of protecting them by having them insured against unforeseen circumstances and acts. Factors That Will Influence How Much You Pay For Your Car Insurance.



Auto insurance premiums are not unlike health insurance premiums and it will help you obtain compensation in case the automobile is damaged or lost. You will find many auto insurance companies offering many different car insurance policies and it is quite obvious that you would prefer to take a policy that provides you with maximum benefits while demanding less auto insurance premium. These are factors that you will need to consider carefully when choosing your auto insurance policy. How much you pay for your car insurance depends on the safety cost of repairing as well as problems relating to theft of the vehicle. The amount of car insurance premium that you will have to pay also depends on the kind of car you own, or are thinking of buying. On the other hand, if your automobile has good design, is created so that it cannot easily be stolen, and there is also less risk of damage or impairment, then your car insurance premium would be correspondingly lower. Also, if the cost of repairing and maintaining the vehicle are high, you will end up paying higher auto insurance premium.


This means that when considering a low auto insurance premium, you must choose your automobile carefully so that it has good efficiency as well as is built well, and the design makes it less troublesome to own. You should ensure that the locks on the car are in proper order, and remember to drive the car carefully and safely while also maintaining it well. There is also the question of paying adequate attention to your car, which will not only lower your car insurance premium, but will also provide you pleasurable ownership of the car. You will also end up paying a reasonable auto insurance premium if you compare different policies of various companies and survey the market before deciding on a particular insurance company. It is thus absolutely necessary to consider the safety, damage as well as repair costs as also the possibility of theft of your car when deciding on which the best auto insurance policy for your car is. Also, if you make none or few claims, it will help drive down your car insurance premium, while a vehicle with negative record will end up costing you more.

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Critical Illness Insurance Regards This Factor Very Closely - Finance and Insurance Articles:

Critical illness insurance is a type of insurance designed to pay a tax free lump sum at the moment you are diagnosed with an illness considered as critical illness. Here are some factors that will help you while taking out a critical illness cover.

Wherever You Are In Life S Many Stages, Why Dig Through The Phone Book When The Insurance Quotes You Are Looking For Are At Your Fingertips - Finance and Insurance:

Your time is valuable, so save it! Wherever you are in life s many stages, why dig through the phone book when the insurance quotes you are looking for are at your fingertips?

But, No One Has Mentioned Health Insurance Before Now. . - Finance and Insurance Articles:

Just for College Grads: Post Graduation Health Insurance Information.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

It Is Here That Accidental Insurance Comes For One S Rescue And Arranges Finances For The Treatment

Category: Finance, Insurance.

One of the most depressing facts about today s life is the increasing rates of accidents. The rate of road accidents has increased manifold in the UK in the past ten years.



The statistics say it all. What is more worrying is the fact that in most of the cases, these accidents have proved to be fatal. Life today has picked such furious pace that people are forever in a hurry to reach their destination. This is only to be expected. And in their bid to outrace others in an effort to reach as quickly as possible, they normally overlook the traffic signal, thereby inviting disaster. In this context, there is a possibility that one might not be able to arrange for the finances to get oneself treated.


Another trouble with modern times is the continuously rising prises of essential goods and services. It is here that accidental insurance comes for one s rescue and arranges finances for the treatment. And it is very good thinking on part of the insurance companies to add such a unique feature as travel insurance to the range of services they provide. However, what should not be forgotten is the fact that the requirement of such a service is most felt by expatriates who are miles away from their friends and family. So if now you are in an alien land and fall ill, and if you are insured, then you can be rest assured that you would not face any financial constrain for your treatment. With more and more people leaving their countries in the look out for career and jobs, the demand for accidental insurance particularly its latest branch, travel insurance is bound to increase in times to come.


With the introduction of travel insurance, insurance companies have added more to their service of accidental insurance, thereby increasing its reach and popularity.

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Renters Insurance Could Cover A Lot Of Things - Finance and Insurance:

Before you get any type of insurance, you should first of all be aware of its definition.

But Neither The Doctor S Office Nor The Hospital Would Provide Him Any Information - Finance and Insurance Blog:

Don t you just love government red tape? And the unintended affects of HIPPA could have a dramatic effect on you.

Health Care Refers To The Processes And The Treatment Procedures Related To Your Health - Finance and Insurance Blog:

Health care refers to the processes and the treatment procedures related to your health.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

However This Is Not The Case At All As Anyone Can Join, The Only Thing You Need Is A Passion For Vintage Cars

Category: Finance, Insurance.

All vintage car enthusiasts will no doubt be interested in The Vintage Sports- Car Club whether they own one, enjoy modifying them or are simply looking for car parts or cheap vintage car insurance.



There was also a big concern that historic motoring was coming to an end and therefore they wanted to do everything they could to make sure that this didn t happen. The club was established in 1934 in a bid to promote and celebrate the sport and pastime of motoring for cars built before 193 It was a group of young men who formed the organisation after they were keen to start a club for the not so rich . This fear stemmed from the fact that many people thought that the introduction of mass production of vehicles was going to signal the end of proper vintage car building. The events that are held every year range from racing, road rallies, hill climbing, driving tests, trials and tours. Sticking with tradition, today The Vintage Sports- Car Club is primarily concerned with the preservation and competition of sports cars that were built before 193 Today there are currently 7, 500 members all of whom vary from competing in events, being marshals or simply just watching the action. With such a variety of things to do there is always something to keep everyone entertained whether they prefer to watch the world s best historic racing or sit in the pub and discuss cheap vintage car insurance. However this is not the case at all as anyone can join, the only thing you need is a passion for vintage cars.


It is a common misconception that you need to have a pre- war club in order to join The Vintage Sports- Car Club. People join for various different reasons from those who want to participate in any of the competitive events that are held every year, to people who enjoy looking at the cars on display at meetings to those who want to know where they can find cheap vintage car insurance. As well as this all of the events are supported by The Motor Sports Association which means that members can be assured that they are part of a reputable organisation. One of the things that makes the club so popular with car fanatics is the fact that the club s ethos has always been one of friendly competition which thrives on a friendly environment.

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These Days, Reasonable Medical Insurance Quotes Are Available On The Internet As Well - Finance and Insurance Blog:

If you go for medical insurance, you will be insured against the astronomically high medical costs if, you have to, God forbid go for any major surgery because of illness, or accidents. Insurance sounds like a good idea, giving you a stamp of security, for many of, however us, the idea of medical insurance means rising costs and something not affordable.

It Is Easy To Miss Huge Savings In Car Insurance - Finance and Insurance Articles:

It is easy to miss huge savings in car insurance. We are about being billed a lot lower for a similar or even a superior policy.

All That You Have To Do Is To Choose The Insurance Policy Best Suited To You - Sheree Nehls's Finance and Insurance blog:

In case, you do not have health insurance, it is always a good time to go for it.

Monday, August 18, 2008

Why Are Employer Health Insurance Costs Rising So Much

Category: Finance, Insurance.

Why are employer health insurance costs rising so much? The health care insurance industry is as volatile as has been seen in more than a decade.



Employers are facing tremendous pressure today to handle the increasing costs of health care insurance. Many employers are wondering how they can afford to maintain their benefits. Health insurers are essentially repackagers of the vast American health care system. This article discusses some of the many elements contributing to these escalating costs and provides some basic strategies for employers to explore to improve the cost and benefit offering. Most employer policies include physician services, mental health and, hospitalization prescription benefits. Herein lies a part of the challenge each insurer faces.


The health insurers consolidate our disparate system to give the consumer, a conduit to, through the employer health insurance. Each part of the system is seeing its component rise in pricing. Pharmacy costs have consistently risen in the 15 to 20% range each year for the last three years says Jeff Smith of Milliman s Columbus, Ohio office. Prescription costs lead the way with an average trend factor of around 28% . Every carrier is faced with the challenge of changing consumer- purchasing patterns. The patient and not the physician now often facilitate the prescription purchase. Pick up any magazine and see the many advertisements that attempt to compel the consumer to ask their physician for a prescription by name.


This changing purchasing pattern is dramatically altering pricing. The prescription component is heavily weighted in this amount. The average percentage increase for small employer health insurance is between 14- 15% . The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act( HIPAA) or the Katzenbaum Kennedy Bill passed in 1996 has impacted how health insurers handle much of their business. But paramount for any group is the overall health status of the group. Group health products must be guaranteed issue to any small employer applicant who adequately meets contribution and participation guidelines. If your group has a combination of health conditions that will constitute a marginal risk, you may be rated- up prohibitively by the various insurance vendors.


The following are among the many other reasons that costs for health insurance are increasing so dramatically: -Technological advances in the health care industry. -An aging U. Work with an insurance agent to help facilitate this process so that all of your options are evaluated. As described in the opening paragraph, health insurers as private labelers of our health care system must identify strategies to help relieve the pressures of these various issues. Population. -Physicians and hospitals are banning together to regain negotiating clout with insurance vendors. -Legislation has created far more regulatory requirements. -Overutilization of services by Americans. Each of these items is impacting profitability and an unprofitable industry is not ideal for purchasers, consumers or vendors and also creates much of the volatility each employer is facing on their renewal. Employers can do the following things to increase awareness: -Provide a detailed breakdown of the overall cost for insurance and then show the employee contribution on payroll information. -Provide a payroll stuffer that demonstrates costs sharing or total employer cost. -During annual review periods ensure the employee understands the costs of employee benefits and note that the employer portion represents effectively additional income. -Increase the employee contribution while explaining the price increase. Employers must begin to engage their employees in these cost increases.


Employers must analyze their costs regularly. The employer has the opportunity two to three months prior to evaluate the marketplace. Each year the company will renew with their insurance vendor. There are many factors that will determine if the company is able to improve price, product or network. There are several steps that should be considered in attempting to keep costs affordable: -Evaluate your plan each year and ensure pricing is competitive. -Make annual plan changes to offset increases in pricing such as increasing copays or deductibles. -Consider changing your drug card to engage your employees more in the cost. -Evaluate employee contribution levels and consider changes in the percentage of overall costs that you provide. -Discuss the affordability of a health care offering with your employees and leadership to ensure each knows the pressure of maintaining such an offering. So what can an employer do to keep costs affordable?


For many employers, the cost of offering health care is typically the in the top five highest costs behind costs such as payroll and raw materials. As the consumer becomes more engaged in the complex purchasing decision for the employer, there may be a gradual enlightenment by some employees who will realize that everything has a price. This high ranking in cost is growing exponentially and deserves the time to be carefully evaluated and assessed. Take the time to have your benefits evaluated by a seasoned professional who will carefully analyze your company s benefit/ price/ risk equation for your health care offering so that you can optimize your position.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Not All Car Insurance Companies Are Created Equal

Category: Finance, Insurance.

A person looking for insurance for their vehicle has several auto insurance companies from which to choose, and sometimes information can be conflicting and difficult to understand.



While the basic premise of obtaining car insurance is the same for all auto insurance companies, how they sell the policies, price the coverage and react to customer claims is what separate them. Contractual language in most insurance policies is difficult to understand without an interpreter and even then, the meanings of some language may seem to be contradicted in other areas of the contract. All car insurance companies must be licensed to sell insurance in the state in which they do business and not all will be available in every state. Although there is some regulation concerning a company s ability to only service certain areas. Depending on an area s history of claims due to theft, weather- related losses and driving reputation a company may decide not to do business in a particular part of a state. From the high- priced, everything is covered auto insurance companies to the ones offering bare- bones coverage at a budget premium, most states offer the complete gamut of available coverage through a plethora of car insurance companies.


Not All Car Insurance Companies Are Created Equal. Choosing the right one should be based on information from other policy holders and the state insurance commission, and not on advertisements. While every insurance company is required to meet the obligations under the contract in the policy, there are numerous ways some of the more unscrupulous auto insurance companies attempt to get around paying any claims. By tapping the experience of a friend or relative has had with auto insurance companies can be a good place to start in making a choice. While it is unlikely it will contain language such as no claim will be paid unless the accident happens between 2 and 2: 15 on a Tuesday, there are a few car insurance companies that add language so restrictive that their odds of pay a claim are minimal. When looking for coverage, a person should look at the company s reputation of paying off claims quickly and with the least amount of hassle. How fast and easy it is to obtain coverage from car insurance companies should also be an indicator of how they feel about their customers.


Fast, friendly service should be a given if the company hopes to have any repeat business. If the company fails to respond in a timely manner to requests for insurance quotes and is slow in returning calls for questions about their coverage, they will likely be slow in responding to claims or complaints.

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Check With Your Own Insurance Company For More Information

Category: Finance, Insurance.

As with many other things, when it comes to buying group health insurance, there is strength in numbers. Currently, a large number of individuals in Dallas, Houston and throughout Texas obtain coverage through their employers.



And big numbers have traditionally gotten the best deals. Many of those employers are large companies with strong- arm power at the insurance bargaining table. The Small- Group Market. If you' re a small- business owner, there is no, however reason to feel left out. Small- group refers to the number of employees in a given company. Projected costs can vary dramatically from area to area based on local medical practices, and whatever price, local prices discounts the insurance company has been able to negotiate with local providers.


It can be as many as 100, but is most often two to 5In this market, health insurance prices have traditionally been based on two factors: - Projected costs of medical services in a given geographic area. - Projected utilization of services. After calculating projected costs, the insurance company adjusts the costs for the expected utilization level of your particular group. These details affect plan premiums for you and your employees. Insurance companies estimate utilization of services based on factors ranging from the medical history of your employees and their dependents to age and gender. If a member of your staff is considered a greater risk, the group will usually pay a higher premium for insurance coverage. The majority of small- group health insurance companies use a process called underwriting.


Why underwriting is important. An underwriter analyzes risk factors( including the medical history of each individual) to estimate potential claims and determine a group's premium rate. To offer coverage at a fair price and to ensure adequate income to pay for future claims and expenses. The insurer's goal? Small business coverage options. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each choice when selecting a plan. Whether you are a small company or a Fortune 500 giant, you want to make sure you are getting your money's worth from a health plan.


While premiums vary among different carriers, recognize that there can be substantial differences in the benefits provided and in the amount your employees must pay out- of- pocket for services. When you start searching for a health care provider for your company, these are things you should consider: What information do I need to collect to get a quote? Things to Think about Regarding Small Business Coverage. All insurance companies will need a census of your employees that includes the number of employees, their age and gender, and the age and gender of all dependents to be covered. They will also need your company's inception date and the effective date of coverage. In addition, based on your number of employees and the practices of the insurance company, some insurance companies will ask each of your employees to fill out a medical questionnaire. Half of my employees are insured elsewhere.


This is a challenge for small business owners. What should I do? If one of your employees has a spouse who has family coverage where he or she works, your employee may be covered on that policy, and not interested in the health insurance plan you offer. An alternative solution may be found in the individual health insurance market. If you want to offer a group plan, be aware that your insurer may require you to cover all or most all of your employees. Can I purchase and offer individual plans to my employees? An employee who needs the coverage may not be eligible.


Yes, with individual plans, but generally, your employees would be subject to individual underwriting. Do I need both group health insurance and workers' compensation insurance? Workers' compensation is usually required. Group Health is optional. In Texas, employers are required to provide workers' compensation insurance, which generally pays for medical expenses and loss of income for employee injuries that are work- related. If you' re a sole proprietor, or officer of, partner a small corporation, you may not be covered automatically by your workers' compensation policy.


Most health insurance plans specifically exclude work- related injuries. If this is the case, you must determine whether your own health insurance has an exclusion for work- related injuries. Generally, most business owners should consider electing to cover themselves under workers' compensation if that option is available in their state. You could have a gap in your own coverage. Check with your own insurance company for more information.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Generally Speaking Keeping A Clean Driving Record Will Mean You Are Eligible For Cheaper Car Insurance

Category: Finance, Insurance.

Car insurance is something that every car owner should have, without it you will be unable to obtain car tax and will therefore be driving a car illegally.



The answer is no, over the past few years insurance companies have jumped on the band wagon and actually turned this theory upside down, more often that not insurance companies are now aiming to attract women drivers offering them lower car insurance quotes simply because of their gender. Everyone jokes about women drivers so are women drivers penalised when it comes to taking out car insurance? Also the jokes that we have all heard imply that women are not the best drivers insurance companies think otherwise, they consider women to be safer drivers and statistics show that claims that have been associated with a man cost the insurance company far more that when a woman makes a claim. Women tend to stick with a car that has a smaller engine and men go for something that is usually bigger and more sporty which would undoubtedly cost the insurance company more to repair the vehicle or offer a settlement figure if a claim was to be made. The reduction in womens car insurance is not just because of the cost of the claims it is also down the the type of cars women drive. When looking for car insurance for a woman you may find that you are offered extra cover such as breakdown cover, this is usually offered at a considerably lower rate when purchasing it alongside your car insurance and well worth considering if you are a woman that travels alone or with children.


Car Security- Keeping your car in a locked garage will help to reduce the cost of your car insurance because your vehicle is less likely to be vandalised and you are more likely to avoid the vehicle being stolen. Although companies aimed at women drivers will offer a lower insurance there are some factors that can affect the price, these will include: - Age- generally younger drivers are more likely to make a claim on their insurance so insurance companies will increase the price to cover their costs, it may be worth being a named driver on your parents car insurance policy for a while to reduce this cost. Installing other safety aspects such as steering wheel locks, alarms and immobilisers will also reduce the risk of damage or theft and in turn your insurance premium should be reduced accordingly. If the work that needs to be carried out on your vehicle can be done without making a claim this is always the best option as you' re no claims bonus will not be affected and you would not have to pay any excess. Previous Claims- If you have made several claims on your car insurance then this will affect your policy as you would be considered a higher risk. Generally speaking keeping a clean driving record will mean you are eligible for cheaper car insurance.


Always obtain several quotes before you decide which policy suits you best.

Monday, August 11, 2008

Life Settlement Policy Works Well Among The People

Life settlement is a sale transaction takes place in life insurance policy, where the policy holder is responsible for the cash payment received from the sale of life settlement policy.



The life settlement policy is offered by the life insurance company to the third party. The person who posses the life settlement policy, obtains all benefits and premium payments at the time of policy maturation. Life settlement is financial transaction, where the policy holder holding life insurance policy sells the policy for a price more than its purchase. In life settlement policy, cash payment is obtained comparably larger than the cash surrender value of the policy. At the time of maturation, life settlement policy provides all benefits and premiums to the person who posses the policy. Nowadays, life settlement becomes the important and essential for the self development and easy accessibility in the market for considerably fair value.


In life settlement, more number of transactions occurs between more number of buyers and sellers. Life settlement policy works well among the people. Life settlement involves more number of buyers and sellers and it serves the purpose. Life settlement is a specialized function and it enforces the responsibility of person involved. Life settlement ensures the functionality and responsibility of different persons involved in the sale transaction. The policy holder of life settlement policy will be over the age of 65 and who no longer needs any particular life insurance policy in his life.


Life settlement policy is framed as per the rules and regulations of the state, where the life settlement policy issued. Generally, it should be known that the life settlement i. e. the policy holder should have life expectancy in their life. The rules, restrictions and responsibility of life settlement policy differ as per the states and statutes. Life settlement policy is issued in different types based on the demands of the customer. Depending upon the life expectations of the policy, the sale of life settlement policy can be determined. Life settlement policy satisfies the demand and requirement of the policy holder with regards to the statutes and ordinance of the state.


There are more people involved in life settlement policy and particularly the life settlement provider serves as a purchaser in the transaction by paying cash more than the surrender value. Since life settlement transactions are based in financial assessment, most of the life insurance company issues it to the holder under legal advice. Life settlement policy is issued by the best life insurance company with compliance to the laws and satisfies the demands of the policy holders. Therefore life settlement policy serves its purpose.