Umbrella Insurance Takes Over Where Other Insurance Stops

Do you worry sometimes that an event or incident will compromise your finances, and put your financial well-being at risk? You have insurance, right? But sometimes the limits set forth in an insurance policy are not enough to cover the expenses related to an accident or injury to another person. Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA can help you obtain an umbrella policy to cover the extra costs.

Umbrella Insurance: What You Need To Know

But who really needs umbrella insurance? Anyone who has savings and assets that need protection beyond the maximum liability coverage of your car or home insurance. The liability insurance of these policies may not be sufficient to cover a lawsuit in the event your dog bites a neighbor or if you get into an accident and injure someone else.

Depending on the insurer, an umbrella policy can protect your assets up to $5 million or more. The amount of your umbrella policy should be enough to match your entire net worth. For example, if your assets total $1 million, that is how much umbrella insurance you should have.

An umbrella policy helps cover any defense costs if you are being sued for damages to someone else’s property or any injuries you may cause to others in an accident. It is particularly important for property owners and landlords because it will cover losses that are not covered by existing policies, as well as provide extra liability protection.

Another added benefit for landlords is the entire premium for your umbrella policy is tax deductible as long as it is for the rental property only. When the net income from the rental property is calculated, those premiums can be deducted along with other operating expenses.

Contact Us Today

If you have assets that need protection, make sure you have an umbrella policy. Don’t risk putting your financial future in jeopardy – contact Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA today to obtain a quote or for any answers to questions you may have.

5 Myths About Flood Insurance

Too often, we hear about the trouble people went through because they didn’t have flood insurance. Hurricanes, flash flooding, and other natural disasters can cause millions of dollars in damage – and without insurance, you will have to pay for repairs and replacement out of pocket. However, many people believe a bunch of myths about flood insurance that discourage them from buying it. Consult with Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA for expert insurance advice.

Here are 5 of the most common myths about flood insurance debunked:

Myth #1: Flooding Only Happens Near Water

Flash floods can occur anywhere—even in desert areas where you might not expect it. Just because you don’t live near a river, lake, or ocean doesn’t mean you’re not at risk for flooding. In fact, more than 20 percent of all flood insurance claims come from outside high-risk flood zones. 

Myth #2: My Homeowners Insurance Covers Flooding

Homeowner’s insurance covers water damage caused by things like burst pipes and leaky roofs – but not floods resulting from natural disasters like hurricanes or tropical storms. You must purchase a separate policy from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer if you want to be protected from flood damage.

Myth #3: Only Homes in High-Risk Areas Are Required to Have Flood Insurance 

Wrong again! While it’s true that your mortgage lender will probably require you to have flood insurance if you live in a high-risk area, there are plenty of other reasons to carry this coverage even if you’re not in a high-risk zone. Did you know, for example, that just one inch of water in your house might cost up to $25,000 in damages?

Myth #4: My Region Hasn’t Experienced a Flood in Years, So I’m Not at Risk

A region’s history of floods has no bearing on its future risk. In fact, just because your town or city hasn’t experienced a major flood doesn’t mean one couldn’t happen tomorrow. A number of factors—including changes in weather patterns, development, and rainfall—can all increase your risk for flooding, even if your region has been mostly dry for years. 

Myth #5: I Don’t Need Flood Insurance Because the Government Will Help Me Pay for Damages if My Home Floods

This one is partially true—the government does offer some financial assistance after a major disaster declaration, but it will only cover a small portion of the damages incurred. In most cases, it won’t come close to covering the cost of rebuilding your home and replacing your possessions. That’s why having both government assistance and private flood insurance is the best way to protect yourself financially if your home is damaged by a flood. 

Get Flood Insurance Today

As you can see, there are a lot of myths about flood insurance out there! Don’t let these misconceptions deter you from purchasing the coverage you need to protect yourself and your family from financial ruin in the event of a flood. To learn more about your risks and what kind of protection is right for you, contact Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA today. We’re here to help

Top Five Life Insurance Myths!

Don’t let these five misconceptions delay you from protecting your loved ones with life insurance.

H2: More people are preparing for the unexpected
The untimely death of a loved one once seemed like a remote possibility. But the pandemic has brought a new awareness of how vulnerable life can be. Numbers from LIMRA, a life insurance knowledgebase, tell the story:

● Nearly one-third of consumers surveyed (31%) say COVID-19 has made them more likely to purchase life insurance within the next 12 months

You only need to type “funerals” into the search field at GoFundMe to see endless tales of the heartbreaking loss of a loved one, followed by financial crisis for their family. The truth is, life can be breathtakingly uncertain. But the financial impact of a loss can be avoided with life insurance.

We’ve partnered with Ethos to help you find the right policy for your needs, with zero hassle. Get your no-obligation quote in seconds.

The bottom line: Millions of Americans lack critical life insurance. But today, getting coverage is simple with Ethos.

H2: Do these thoughts sound familiar?
Here are five of the most common reasons people put off getting life insurance—and why you should rethink them.
1. I can’t afford it. Research finds people wildly overestimate the cost of term life insurance. Millennials especially overestimate by 5–10x! In fact, a healthy 35-year-old non-smoker can buy a 10-year, $1,000,000 term life policy for about $65 per month through Ethos. That’s less than the cost of many auto and home insurance policies. And of the three—car, house or family—which is more important?
2. My life insurance coverage through work is enough. Workplace coverage is typically 1x salary. That’s not enough to help a grieving family maintain their way of life and fund long-term goals like college tuition. Also, if you leave a job, you can’t always take your life insurance with you.
3. I don’t want to think about it. An Ethos application takes most people less than 10 minutes to finish. There’s no time like the present to spend a few minutes getting the protection your family needs. In the time it takes you to finish your morning coffee, you could be approved for coverage.

● The longer you wait, the more expensive life insurance gets. Healthy, younger adults can get the most coverage: up to $2M in term life through Ethos.
● Circumstances can change and future insurability is not a given. Once you get coverage, you’ll never lose it due to health changes.

4. I don’t need it. Some people believe they’ve got sufficient assets to protect their family if the worst happened. In other words, they plan to “self-insure.” It sounds good—but it may be unrealistic. Consider:

● Forty-two percent of Americans would face financial hardship within six months if the primary wage-earner were to die unexpectedly, according to LIMRA.
● A middle-class child born in 2015 will cost nearly $300,000 to raise to adulthood. That’s not counting the cost of college; currently about $80,000 per year for an Ivy League education.
● Did you know that life insurance policies can offer benefits even while you’re living? For example, if you get a policy with a standard terminal illness rider, you could access a portion of the policy’s death benefit if you become terminally ill.

The truth is, you can choose a policy with much more coverage than you can provide on your own, for an affordable rate.

5. The process is too complicated. This used to be the case. When you wanted life insurance, you had to schedule a medical exam, then wait weeks or months for approval from a carrier. But the Ethos process is built for the way people do business in the 21st century, with no need for blood draws or other intrusive tests. Ethos’ technology enables us to approve about 95% of people aged 20–85 in as little as 10 minutes—with just a few health and lifestyle questions.

H2: Take action to protect your loved ones
If you’re ready to make a plan for life insurance, start by getting a quick quote from our friends at Ethos.

I’m Retired, Do I Need Health Insurance?

According to research, the average retired couple will need $315,000 to cover medical costs in retirement. And that doesn’t even include the cost of long-term care. So, if you’re retired and don’t have health insurance, you could face serious financial challenges down the road. Here we will discuss the basics of health insurance for retirees and help you determine whether or not you need coverage.

Why You Need Health Insurance After You Retire

If you’re retired and don’t have health insurance, you could be facing some serious financial challenges down the road. Here are a few reasons why you need health insurance after you retire:

To protect your assets: If you don’t have health insurance and something happens, your savings and retirement could be at risk.

To keep your costs down: Health insurance can help you save money on routine and unexpected medical expenses.

To get the care you need: Without health insurance, you may not be able to get the care you need or afford to pay for it out of pocket.

How to Get Health Insurance After You Retire

There are a few options for retired people who don’t have health insurance. One is to purchase a private health insurance policy from Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA. This may be expensive, but if you’re healthy, it could be worth the investment.

Another option is to join a healthcare-sharing program. These programs allow members to share the cost of medical expenses. Finally, you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and provide coverage for things like hospitalization and prescription drugs.

Contact Us Today

There you have it! Now you know a little bit more about health insurance for retirees. If you’re retired and don’t have health insurance, get in touch with Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA. We can help you find the right policy for your needs. Give us a call today.

Types of Life Insurance

For many people, having life insurance is a must because there are people who depend on them. If you are shopping for life insurance, there are two main types to choose from. These include term and whole life insurance. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, and each can give you effective protection for your loved ones. When you need life insurance, contact us at Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA to find out more.

Types of Life Insurance

Term Life Insurance

Just as the name suggests, term life insurance is good for a specific term. That means that it is good for a set number of years and expires after they are over. This insurance comes with the benefit of a lower price than whole life insurance, but it has the drawback of an expiration date. Once it expires, you need to apply for insurance all over again, and the price will likely be higher because you are older when applying for the new policy. 

Whole Life Insurance

Whole life is also described in its name. Whole life stays in place for your whole life with no expiration date. If you keep paying your policy’s premiums, the policy can’t be canceled. Even the providing insurance company can’t cancel it if you keep paying. It does come with a higher price for the premiums than term life, but it has other advantages. One of these is that it builds up a cash value over the years that you have the ability to borrow against should you need to. This can be extremely helpful in the case of a financial emergency when you need quick access to cash. 

Get Your Life Insurance 

When you need life insurance, there’s no time to wait. To get covered, give us a call at Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA.

What is the maximum auto coverage you can purchase?

At Client First Insurance Solutions serving the greater Americus, GA community, we know you read a lot about auto insurance and most articles focus on meeting the Georgia auto insurance minimums. Instead, we’d like to explain the maximum amount of coverage you can carry to protect your vehicle and your legal liability.

Auto Insurance Liability Coverage

In Georgia, the highest liability limits you can purchase range from $300,000 and $500,000. Some purchasers add another type of liability coverage to insure themselves at a higher rate. Since Georgia awards for vehicle damage using the diminished liability concept, choosing a higher liability level for property damage can save you from out-of-pocket expenses.

Collision and Comprehensive Coverages

When you add collision and comprehensive, most underwriters will insure your vehicle to its maximum value, but you need to choose your deductible, the amount of out-of-pocket money you spend for repairs. This can range between $500 and $5,000. The maximum coverage for either of these types of insurance equals your vehicle’s value.

Rental Assistance and Roadside Assistance

If you choose to add coverage for a rental vehicle when your vehicle needs repair due to an accident, the maximum typically tops out at 30 days of rental. The rental rate used applies to a mid-range vehicle.

Some coverage, such as roadside assistance, comes as a standardized package. When you need a covered service, the insurance provides it as long as you’re current on your premiums.

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Client First Insurance Solutions serving Americus, GA can create a custom auto policy for you that offers you the exact coverage you need. We’ll work with you to ensure that you obtain the coverage you need at a fair price.

Julissa Gutierrez presented the SGTC Foundation Client First Insurance Solutions CDL scholarship

Repost from: South Georgia Technical College

The South Georgia Technical College Foundation presented Commercial Truck Driving student, Julissa Gutierrez of Oglethorpe, with a $500 Client First Insurance Solutions scholarship recently.  Jody Wade from Client First Insurance Solutions was on hand to make the presentation.

   Client First Insurance Solutions funded five Commercial Truck Driving Scholarships at South Georgia Technical College.  Gutierrez was the second scholarship recipient.  Richard T. Simpson of Talbotten, GA was the initial recipient. The scholarships are being awarded to South Georgia Technical College Commercial Truck Driving students who aspire to become owner/operators.

   “We are very appreciative of Client First Insurance Solutions for their willingness to partner with South Georgia Technical College through their sponsorship of these scholarships for this high demand career field,” said SGTC President Dr. John Watford.

   Jody Wade of Client First Solutions thanked Dr. Watford and SGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement and SGTC Foundation Executive Director Su Ann Bird for the opportunity. “We are very pleased to partner with South Georgia Technical College for these CDL scholarships. We realize truck drivers are essential workers and they are responsible for delivering goods to our communities.  This is our way of showing appreciation to those individuals who are choosing to enter this career field,” said Wade.

   The primary focus of Client First Insurance Solutions is to meet the needs of its valued clients and prepare insurance solutions for the things that matter most.  They provide auto, home, commercial, life insurance and more.  They service clients in Georgia, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida.

   Dr. Watford shared that “statistics show there is a current shortage of truck drivers and this is predicted to increase over the next few years. Almost every job ad you see is advertising for certified drivers.  South Georgia Technical College is striving to meet that demand by expanding its Commercial Truck Driving training program and these scholarships are a tremendous help.”

   Commercial Truck Driving is one of the Governor’s High Demand Career fields that qualifies for additional funding through the Hope Career Grant program.  Qualified residents receive up to $1000 toward tuition for enrolling in the CDL program.

   The Commercial Truck Driving program at South Georgia Technical College is an eight-week program and can be completed in day or evening classes.  The curriculum includes in-class work, skills-field training, and on-the-road experience.  The median annual wage for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers was $47,130 in May 2020.

   South Georgia Technical College is currently registering students for Fall Semester.  Fall semester begins August 18th.  To enroll in the CDL classes, contact the admissions office at 229-931-2394 in Americus or 229-271-4040 in Cordele.  For more information about the CDL program contact Robert Cook at rcook@southgatech.edu or visit the SGTC website at www.southgatech.edu.

   South Georgia Tech offers over 200 associate degree, diploma or short-term certificate of credit programs of study.  Now is a great time to get the training needed to update or start a new career!

Photo:  Shown above (l to r) are South Georgia Technical College President Dr. John Watford with SGTC CDL instructor Ken Hair,  scholarship recipient Julissa Gutierrez with Client First Insurance’s Jody Wade making the presentation.  Also shown is SGTC CDL Instructor Ken Coptsias.

Commercial Insurance: What Are Your Options?

As a business owner, you know that commercial insurance is a necessity. But with so many options available, it can be hard to know which policy is right for you. Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA offers this guide to different types of commercial insurance and help you decide which one is best for your business. Read on to learn more. 

Commercial Insurance: What Are Your Options?

1. General Liability Insurance

This is the most basic type of commercial insurance, and it covers your business against third-party claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury. It is important to have this type of coverage, even if your business is small because any number of accidents could lead to a lawsuit.

2. Professional Liability Insurance

If you provide professional services, you need to have professional liability insurance. This type of coverage protects you against claims of negligence or errors in your work. It is important to have this coverage even if you are very careful, as accidents can always happen.

3. Product Liability Insurance

If you manufacture or sell products, then you need product liability insurance. This type of coverage protects you against claims of injuries or damage caused by your products. It is important to have this coverage because even the safest products can sometimes cause accidents.

4. Property Insurance

This type of insurance covers your business property, such as your office or store, against damage from fire, theft, and other disasters. It is important to have this coverage because even the most carefully protected accidents can damage property.

5. Workers’ Compensation Insurance

If you have employees, you must have workers’ compensation insurance. This type of coverage protects your employees against injuries or illnesses that they may suffer while working for you. It is important to have this coverage because it can help you avoid lawsuits and protect your employees in the event of an accident.

6. Business Interruption Insurance

This type of insurance covers your business expenses if you have to temporarily close your business due to a fire, flood, or any other natural disaster. It is important to have this coverage because it can help you keep your business running after an accident.

Now that you know more about the different types of commercial insurance, you can decide which one is right for your business. If you have any questions or need help finding the right policy, Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA can help. Give us a call today to speak with one of our insurance experts. We’re here to help you find the best coverage for your business.

 

Commercial Insurance: What Are Your Options?

As a business owner, you know that commercial insurance is a necessity. But with so many options available, it can be hard to know which policy is right for you. Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA offers this guide to different types of commercial insurance and help you decide which one is best for your business. Read on to learn more. 

Commercial Insurance: What Are Your Options?

1. General Liability Insurance

This is the most basic type of commercial insurance, and it covers your business against third-party claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury. It is important to have this type of coverage, even if your business is small because any number of accidents could lead to a lawsuit.

2. Professional Liability Insurance

If you provide professional services, you need to have professional liability insurance. This type of coverage protects you against claims of negligence or errors in your work. It is important to have this coverage even if you are very careful, as accidents can always happen.

3. Product Liability Insurance

If you manufacture or sell products, then you need product liability insurance. This type of coverage protects you against claims of injuries or damage caused by your products. It is important to have this coverage because even the safest products can sometimes cause accidents.

4. Property Insurance

This type of insurance covers your business property, such as your office or store, against damage from fire, theft, and other disasters. It is important to have this coverage because even the most carefully protected accidents can damage property.

5. Workers’ Compensation Insurance

If you have employees, you must have workers’ compensation insurance. This type of coverage protects your employees against injuries or illnesses that they may suffer while working for you. It is important to have this coverage because it can help you avoid lawsuits and protect your employees in the event of an accident.

6. Business Interruption Insurance

This type of insurance covers your business expenses if you have to temporarily close your business due to a fire, flood, or any other natural disaster. It is important to have this coverage because it can help you keep your business running after an accident.

Now that you know more about the different types of commercial insurance, you can decide which one is right for your business. If you have any questions or need help finding the right policy, Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA can help. Give us a call today to speak with one of our insurance experts. We’re here to help you find the best coverage for your business.

 

Common Misconceptions About Home Insurance

In today’s world, home insurance is a crucial part of homeownership. But what are the misconceptions around this important topic? Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA offers you to take a look at some common myths and truths.

Common Misconceptions About Home Insurance

Myth #1: Home Insurance Is Expensive

Truth: Actually, home insurance rates vary depending on your location as well as the type of home insurance you choose. Many affordable options are available, so you can find a policy that fits your budget.

Myth #2: Home Insurance Covers Everything

Truth: Home insurance usually covers damage to your home and property and personal liability in the event someone is injured on your property. However, it does not cover everything, so be sure to read your policy carefully.

Myth #3: I Don’t Need Home Insurance If I Live In a Safe Neighborhood

Truth: No matter where you live, accidents can happen. A fire or burglary could occur even in the safest neighborhood, so it’s important to have insurance coverage.

Myth #4: I Don’t Need Home Insurance If I Own My Home outright

Truth: Even if you own your home outright, you should still have insurance coverage. This will protect you in the event of damage to your property or liability claims.

Myth #5: My Home Isn’t Worth Insuring

Truth: It’s always a good idea to have insurance coverage, even if your home is not worth a lot of money. If something happens to your home, you may not be able to rebuild it without insurance proceeds.

Myth #6: I Can’t Get Home Insurance If I’ve Had Claims in the Past

Truth: You may be able to get home insurance even if you’ve had claims in the past. However, the premiums for this coverage may be higher. Talk to an insurance agent to find out what options are available to you.

Contact Us Today

It’s important to have home insurance, even if you think your home is not worth insuring. There are many affordable policies available, and it’s important to have coverage in case of an accident or disaster. Contact Client First Insurance Solutions in Americus, GA for more information about home insurance. We can help you find the right policy for your needs.