“I grew up saying, ‘I don’t want to do what my dad does. I want something different,’” Matt Leliaert recalled. “Then life happens.”

After enjoying a successful career as a corporate headhunter in Cincinnati, Ohio, Matt found himself facing an uncertain future as a single parent with full custody of his 2-year-old son.

Exhausted and hours away from family or core friends, he knew his life needed to change.

“It was early 2009, we were in a recession, the job became harder, commissions were tight,” he said of his 10 years as a finance headhunter. “It was fine, but something happened that Friday before I came back for Easter.

“I called my dad.”

It was then that Matt decided to join the family business.

Following in the footsteps of his father Randy, he ultimately ascended to principal agent when he purchased the Osceola, Indiana-based Leliaert Insurance Agency from Randy.

The Independent Agency Difference

One of the things that distinguishes independent agencies like Leliaert from captive agencies is the ability to offer a wider variety of insurance products. Captive agencies, as the name suggests, are tied exclusively to one insurance carrier and can only offer the products that carrier provides.

“The service, knowledge and longevity of employees sets us apart but its not the biggest difference,” Matt said. “The biggest difference is captive agencies can only sell the products of one insurance carrier.”

Independent agencies, on the other hand, have the freedom to shop around for the best policies and rates from a variety of carriers, ensuring customers have access to the coverage that best suits their needs, regardless of the carrier.

Independent agencies also have more flexibility in terms of pricing, as they are able to obtain rates with various carriers. Every carrier prices risks differently.

“The relationship you have with underwriters and the carriers means as much as the relationships we have here among employees or with clients,” he said. “They need to be cared for with honesty. We do everything we can to retain credibility.”

Additionally, independent agencies such as Leliaert prioritize customer service and long-term relationships with clients, rather than just closing a sale and moving on. This personalized approach means clients receive the support they need, when they need it, building a sense of trust and a strong appreciation for the agency’s commitment to them.

“We have people who have been with us for 35 years,” Matt explained. “It’s familiarity, peace of mind. If something goes wrong, we can shift you over to better-suited coverage if needed.”

And for Leliaert Insurance Agency’s leader, an independent structure has afforded freedoms that corporate, captive agencies could never promise — or price.

“The value for me was getting myself into a position where I could be available to my family when they needed me. It’s allowed me to coach soccer, tee-ball, attend field trips, be a bigger part of my kids’ life.

“It was a good move.”

How Leliaert Insurance Agency Can Help

At Leliaert Insurance Agency, we believe making the switch to an independent agency should be an easy decision. Our knowledgeable staff shares decades of experience in finding the right insurance policies for our clients, whether they’re searching for personal, commercial or group coverage.

The Leliaert Agency office can be reached via text message or landline call, and we can help immediately with any insurance questions or concerns. Additionally, we can send customers their insurance policy information and photos via text message for easy access.

Contact us today and let us help you select the best insurance coverage to meet your needs.

The post All Roads Lead Home: National Coverage Meets Neighborly Care with Matt Leliaert, Principal Agent appeared first on Leliaert Insurance Agency.

“It’s really amazing to me how many people really don’t what insurance is,” Kim shared, “and I’m guilty of that because when I started here, we paid the bill, and that was about all I knew about insurance.”

Holding secretarial positions throughout her career, Kim joined Leliaert Insurance Agency in August 2022 as an administrative assistant. Following an invitation to learn more about the industry from principal agent Matt Leliaert, Kim grew confident in her new direction.

“I met everyone from the office and talked to everybody and it just felt right, this is where I belonged. I really enjoyed the people who I would later work with. So, I gave it a shot,” the mother of two said.

“I took the insurance test and I passed it first time, which was really great because I heard that isn’t an easy feat.”

Since coming aboard, Kim’s communication with clients and colleagues has helped her identify overlooked or sometimes misunderstood aspects of certain policies.

Collision vs. Comprehensive Auto Coverage

“It’s just kind of crazy to me how people don’t know the difference between comprehensive and collision coverage,” she said.

Both are types of coverage that can offer protection for different types of damage to your vehicle. While collision insurance focuses on damage resulting from a car crash, comprehensive insurance protects your vehicle against all other kinds of damage, including theft, vandalism, fire and natural disasters.

Collision insurance protects against the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle in the case of a collision, regardless of who was at fault. This type of insurance is particularly important for those who have vehicles that are still being financed or leased, as it can help cover the costs of repairs or replacement if your car is deemed a total loss. It can also help cover the costs of repairing damage to other vehicles and property if you’re found at fault in a crash.

On the other hand, comprehensive insurance covers loss or damage to your vehicle that’s not related to a collision. This includes damage caused by natural disasters, such as hailstorms, floods or tornadoes, as well as theft, vandalism and fires. While comprehensive coverage can be more expensive than collision coverage, it can help provide peace of mind, knowing you’re protected against a wide range of potential risks.

When choosing between comprehensive and collision insurance, Lelieart agents can help in carefully examining your individual needs and risks that you face as a driver. If you have a newer car or live in an area that’s prone to natural disasters or theft, comprehensive insurance may be the better choice for you. However, if you have an older vehicle or are a safe driver, collision insurance may be more practical.

ERIE Insurance Rate Lock

“ERIE Insurance has a lot of different things that are beneficial to people that I haven’t seen with other carriers,” Kim explained. “ERIE Rate Lock is really great rating system that’s more personalized.”

The ERIE Insurance Rate Lock option is a distinct feature of the carrier that allows policyholders to lock in the cost of their insurance premiums. This means the rates policyholders pay for their current insurance policy will remain the same for the duration of their policy term, as long as there are no changes of driver, vehicle, or you move to another location.

This option is particularly beneficial to policyholders who are concerned about fluctuations in the insurance market and want to avoid any unexpected premium increases. With the Rate Lock option, policyholders can budget confidently knowing the cost of their insurance will not change during the term of their policy.

It’s important to note that the Rate Lock option is subject to certain conditions and limitations. For example, policyholders must maintain continuous coverage with ERIE Insurance to keep their rate locked in, and the premium rate may change if there are changes to the policy or if the policyholder moves to a different location. However, these conditions are clearly outlined in the policy agreement and can be discussed with a Leliaert agent.

ERIE Guaranteed Replacement Cost for Homeowners

“One of the things that I think is super impressive about ERIE is that it has Guaranteed Replacement Cost; that’s the only carrier I’m aware of that offers that,” Kim said.

ERIE’s Guaranteed Replacement Cost option ensures policyholders can rebuild or repair their home to match its original state, no matter the cost. It covers any unexpected expenses that would arise due to inflation, labor costs, material costs or other unforeseen expenses beyond the property’s insured value.

“Every year, it will get re-rated,” Kim explained. “Because with everything going on in the world today, you know, building materials are going up as well. So, a lot of people right now are finding their dwelling coverage is increasing because it’s costing more to repair or replace a home.”

This coverage option applies to both the structure of the home and other structures on the property, such as garages or sheds. ERIE Insurance’s Guaranteed Replacement Cost also includes a provision that covers the cost of debris removal and any necessary upgrades to bring the home up to current building code standards.

This coverage is essential in protecting homeowners from the financial burden that comes with rebuilding or repairing a home. It offers an extra layer of protection against unexpected expenses due to rising costs, inflation, and building code upgrades.

How Leliaert Insurance Agency Can Help

Leliaert Insurance Agency’s team of experts is committed to guiding our clients in finding the most appropriate insurance coverage to meet their needs. Whether you need assistance with auto, home, business or life insurance, we have the knowledge and expertise required to help you make informed decisions.

At Leliaert Insurance Agency, we recognize insurance can be complex and overwhelming for some. That’s why our team is dedicated to taking the time to explain dense insurance concepts in a way that is clear, concise and easy to understand.

Have a question about your existing policy or pending changes? Are you unsure of your next step? Contact us today and one of our team members will be happy to assist you with all of your insurance needs!

The post Three Aspects of Insurance You May Be Overlooking with Kim DeBoe appeared first on Leliaert Insurance Agency.

At Lelieart Insurance Agency, commercial CSR Tina Ford knows firsthand how important it is to have the proper insurance coverage. Tina’s pre-insurance background was in fire and water restoration. Here she witnessed the importance of insurance in protecting businesses. Leaving the restoration world and jumping into the culinary arts, she graduated from pastry school (her garden keeps her busy these days) and worked in restaurants before deciding she wanted a more stable career. This led her to work for Leliaert. Applying her background in restoration services, she acts as a claims liaison in the office.

“Being in the restoration business has helped because people have specific questions about re-build and water mitigation, things like that,” Tina said. “And I can answer those questions.”

Property insurance is a critical coverage to have, especially for those who own real-estate or have equipment that’s vulnerable to damage or loss. Property insurance can help cover the cost of repairs or replacements in the event of a fire or water damage. As a claims liaison at Lelieart Insurance Agency, Tina is well-equipped to work with clients to file and follow-through with their restoration claims.

Tina shared with us a few important coverage options for businesses big and small.

Commercial Property Insurance: Commercial property insurance is a type of insurance that protects businesses from financial loss due to damage or loss of their physical assets. This type of insurance is tailored to cover the specific needs of businesses, from small shops to large corporations. It provides coverage for property damage caused by natural disasters, theft, or accidents, ensuring businesses are not left out-of-pocket if something unfortunate happens. Commercial property insurance typically covers buildings, equipment, inventory, fixtures and furniture, among other assets.

“Property coverage has increased across the board,” Tina explained. “Cost of materials are going up and then the rate goes up. We’re focused on building evaluations. What we do is go back through, check out building materials, recent updates and that gives us a more accurate number to work with.”

General Liability Insurance: This type of insurance covers bodily injury and property damage that may occur on your business property, or as a result of your product or service.

“If you go to sell a craft show and someone gets hurt, personal liability won’t extend there,” Tina warned, which is an area where general liability insurance can assist but may not be top of mind. 

Cyber Insurance: With the increasing integration of technology in businesses, cyber insurance is becoming more important than ever. Cyber attacks, network failures and other technology-related incidents can all be costly, and cyber insurance can help cover those losses.

Habitation and Hospitality Policies: This type of insurance not only protects your real-estate investment, restaurant or hotel, but also covers any incidents that may occur while someone is on your property. From guest injuries to property damage, habitation and hospitality insurance has you covered. It’s helpful to think of this insurance as an extra layer of protection for your property and guests.

“One of the biggest things that’s tripping our hospitality group up is accurate sales numbers,” Tina shared.

“So, because of the pandemic, most of our carriers dropped sales numbers down, to kind of meet what they thought was going to happen. We knew we weren’t having as many people dining in and business was slower. Now, insurance companies have implemented those receipts back and sometimes they’re not the accurate number. Sometimes they’re much lower than the actual receipts. Then when an audit is completed, they are hit with a large additional premium due. Clients need to make sure they’re keeping up on that; we do. We’ll say, ‘Hey, we need your updated numbers,’ but it’s up to them to give us the updated numbers.”

Beware: Businesses that fail to report accurate numbers can potentially face a non-compliance charge or an additional 25-50% charge by their carrier.

How Leliaert Insurance Agency Can Help

At Lelieart Insurance Agency, we understand each business is unique, which is why we work closely with our clients to determine the best coverage options to fit their needs. We also offer building evaluations, where we can go back through and check for accurate building and policy evaluations to ensure our clients have the right coverage in place.

We know that commercial insurance can be overwhelming and confusing, which is why we’re committed to making the process as easy as possible for our clients. Our office can be reached via text message or landline call, and we can help immediately with any insurance questions or concerns. Additionally, we can send customers their insurance policy information and photos via text message for easy access.

Whether you’re just starting out or have been in business for years, it’s important to ensure you have the right commercial insurance coverage to protect your investment. Contact us today to learn more about comprehensive options.

The post Understand Commercial Insurance Better with Tina Ford, Commercial CSR appeared first on Leliaert Insurance Agency.

For Shelly Harrell, director of operations at Leliaert Insurance Agency in Osceola, Indiana, the importance of life insurance cannot be overstated. 

With more than 30 years of experience assisting Leliaert clients, Shelly has witnessed firsthand the benefits of having a life insurance policy and the peace of mind it can bring to families in the face of unexpected tragedy. 

“Everybody always thinks insurance is boring; It’s not,” Shelly explained. “There’s new stuff every day. Some days it’s stressful but, a lot of days, it’s about educating people.”

What Type of Life Insurance is Right For You?

Life insurance can be the difference between staying and moving when a head of household passes away. For families with children, this can be an especially difficult adjustment, both emotionally and financially. However, with the right life insurance policy in place, families can ensure they have the financial security they need to move forward and provide for their loved ones.

But what type of life insurance policy is right for you? That’s where Shelly and the team at Leliaert Insurance Agency can help. There are typically two main types of life insurance policies to choose from: term and whole life.

Term life insurance provides a death benefit for a set period of time, usually 10, 15, 20 or 30 years. This makes term life insurance an affordable option for those who need coverage for specific financial obligations, like a mortgage or a child’s college education.

Whole life insurance, on the other hand, provides both a death benefit and a cash value component that grows tax-deferred over time.

“We have a lot of people wait until they’re retiring (to purchase a policy),” Shelly explained of trends she’s noticed. “With a higher premium, you may get lower coverage.”

Whole life insurance tends to be more expensive than term life insurance, but it can also provide greater long-term savings and investment opportunities.

What’s the Cost?

So how much does life insurance actually cost? According to Shelly, the cost of a life insurance policy can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including age, health and lifestyle habits. However, as a rough estimate, a healthy individual in their 30s can expect to pay around $20 to $30 per month for a 20-year term life insurance policy with a $500,000 death benefit.

“A lot of carriers are doing an express issue,” Shelly shared as alternative to policies requiring more comprehensive medical exams. “They will pull prescription records and medical records and motor vehicle records — basic info — and then they give you a price.”

One thing to keep in mind when shopping for life insurance is that it’s important to tell the truth about your health and lifestyle habits. Insurance underwriters will rely on this information to determine your risk level and set your premiums, and lying about your health or smoking habits could result in higher premiums or even a denied claim down the line.

“The underwriters can be understanding as long as they know what they’re seeing,” she said. “They’re going to find out in the bloodwork.”

How Leliaert Insurance Agency Can Help

The key to finding the right life insurance policy is to work with an experienced and knowledgeable insurance agent like Shelly and the team at Leliaert Insurance Agency. With our decades of shared experience, more than 15 major carriers and a deep understanding of the insurance industry, we can help you navigate the complexities of life insurance and find the policy that meets your unique needs and budget.

When it comes to protecting your family’s financial well-being, there’s no substitute for a good life insurance policy. Contact Leliaert Insurance Agency today to learn more about our comprehensive coverage options. 

The post Dive Into Life Insurance with Shelly Harrell, Director of Operations appeared first on Leliaert Insurance Agency.

Meet Sara Garay, Lelieart Insurance Agency’s bilingual sales agent. Sara’s working background includes Medicare and life insurance sales, and six years at State Farm. She joined Lelieart Insurance Agency in 2023 and has been proudly serving the Hispanic community since 2014.

“It’s important for me that you understand what you’re paying for,” Sara said. 

“Insurance is not a product like the lights in your vehicle; if the lights are off, you don’t see any light. With insurance, people often don’t notice the issue until they need help. You can be with a carrier for years and forget about your coverages. I like to remind people and review policies to tell them what they’re paying for.”

Upon entering the insurance industry, Sara wasn’t aware of how underserved the Hispanic population was when it came to coverage. But the more she worked with them, the more she realized how she could help. 

Clients may not understand the different types of coverage, why they need it or how it could protect them. Sara has made it her mission to educate her clients about the importance of insurance and guide them in selecting the right coverage for their specific needs.

“I found that because Leliaert has access to so many different programs, we can help more people,” she said. “Even when someone has issues with their driver’s license, they can still have insurance.”

When it comes to car insurance, it’s vital to choose the right coverage level. Clients often ask her why their policy covers one type of damage and not another. Sara is able to explain the difference between basic liability and full coverage, how home insurance works, what it covers and what it doesn’t.

“It’s not just the law,” Sara said. “I’ll explain why you need it and what you are protecting. You’re protecting everything that you work for and everybody that you work for. That’s what I’ve enjoyed most about my work, the education.” 

Offering Peace of Mind with Life Insurance

Life insurance is another critical topic for Sara’s clients and policyholders with families or spouses.

“I’ve had clients come in and say, ‘I’m worried. I’m worried if something happens to me, what’s going to happen to my kids?,’” she recalled.

Sara’s devotion to clients provides them with peace of mind, as she explains the different types of life insurance policies and how they work.

“I myself was a single mother for a long time and I know that I need to have my stuff planned out,” she said. “What’s going to happen to me? What’s going to happen to my children? Who’s going to take care of them? And they’re going to need money for that. So I have to be prepared.”

She admits it’s hard to get people to come in sometimes and stresses how it’s essential to have that one-on-one consultation.

Don’t Be Left Stranded — Consider Trip Interruption Coverage

When Sara isn’t working, she and her family enjoy mapping their next trip and camping. She’s traveled to almost every state and visited national parks like Yellowstone, Zion and the Grand Canyon. 

One thing, she says, many travelers overlook is the importance of trip interruption coverage. She knows firsthand how it can help.

“When we were coming back from Las Vegas, my engine blew. It was 3 a.m., we were in southern Illinois, about 6 hours away from home,” she recalled. “I had to call for a tow. The truck took me to the nearest mechanic, and we dropped off the car. The tow truck was awesome and took us to a hotel where we stayed the night — and the next night too. I. Think they had to change transmission and they had to wait for a part. Seven people stuck in a hotel! Trip interruption helped me with the hotel and helped with food.”

This coverage can protect you if you have to cancel or postpone your trip due to unforeseeable events like illness, a natural disaster, vehicle issues or a death in the family. The average cost of trip interruption coverage varies, but it’s usually a percentage of your overall trip cost. 

It’s a good idea to speak with a knowledgeable agent like Sara to ensure you have the right coverage before embarking on your next adventure.

How Leliaert Insurance Agency Can Help

Lelieart Insurance Agency is committed to helping our clients select the best coverage for their needs. Our expert agents are skilled in understanding the unique insurance required for a range of clients. Lelieart Insurance Agency offers a range of options, including car insurance, home insurance, life insurance and more, with bilingual agents, such as Sara, who can communicate with Spanish-speaking clients.

Whether it’s sharing knowledge with clients, guiding them to sufficient coverage or ensuring they’re protected while traveling, Sara and the agency are always here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive policy options!

The post Life Insurance, Trip Interruption Coverage and More with Sara Garay, Bilingual Sales Agent appeared first on Leliaert Insurance Agency.

If your bike goes down, the trusted guidance of a fellow motorcycle rider may save you from financial burden.

Based in Osceola, Indiana, Lelieart Insurance Agency is known for our comprehensive approach to insurance, with a veteran roster of devoted agents such as longtime rider Samuel Hoover, a team member since December 2017. 

Samuel is an expert in auto and motorcycle insurance trends, ensuring his clients have an advisor and access to the right coverage. When he’s not planning his next trip to Sturgis or weekend ride with his wife, he’s helping to keep others protected.

MedPay Can Make the Difference

You may ride defensively, but mistakes happen. That’s where MedPay can help.

“People often don’t fully grasp what MedPay means,” Samuel said.

MedPay insurance, also known as medical payments coverage, is a type of auto insurance that provides drivers and passengers with assistance in covering medical expenses incurred during a crash. MedPay can cover a variety of medical expenses, including ambulances, hospital stays, surgery and medical treatment. This type of policy is an optional add-on to standard insurance and can often be purchased separately. 

It’s important to note that MedPay policy limits tend to be relatively low, so it may not completely cover all medical expenses in the event of a serious incident.

Of Lelieart’s more than 15 major carriers, a key advantage of ERIE Insurance for motorcycle MedPay is that they offer up to $25,000 in coverage, Samuel said. 

Many policies only include up to $1,000 of coverage or no additional coverage at all — “That’s a red flag,” Samuel cautioned — leaving clients vulnerable to staggering medical expenses. Emergency medical procedures, ambulance rides and scans may cost a minimum of $10,000, he said, and without sufficient coverage, it could put clients in financial distress.

Custom Paint Job? Consider Accessories Coverage

“About 90% of bikes have a custom aspect,” Samuel explained.

For motorcyclists with personalized rides, accessories coverage is a must-have.

Most insurance policies provide for a base of roughly $3,000 in coverage, but there’s a good chance that may not be enough to cover more expensive accessories or a custom paint job. By documenting the itemized list of accessories and aspects of the bike for coverage purposes, customizations can easily be added for a $100-$200 annual cost, on average. 

Safeguard Yourself Against the Under-Insured or Uninsured

Samuel shared a cautionary tale from his family, illustrating the pitfalls of overlooking policy options.

TLDR: opting for under-insured or uninsured motorist coverage can save headaches.

“So, my dad bought a new bike in my mom’s name,” he recalled. 

“My brother and I were riding; he gets hit by a vehicle in a hit-and-run. The policy was with Progressive. They initially say, ‘Well, there’s no coverage for his injuries,’ and we’re trying to figure out, well, how is that? 

“So fast-forward, I look at it, and my dad didn’t have under-insured or uninsured motorist coverage on there. So, basically, the only way they covered it was because my brother was not named on the policy … and they paid out because he could sue against the policy. I still have no idea how they paid it out but they did, they paid for a portion of his injuries. 

“But if he was on the policy with Mom and Dad, there would have been no coverage whatsoever. That was a lesson I taught my dad when he finally had me look at it.”

Lock In Your Current Rate with ERIE

Over the past two years, rate hikes have been happening across the board. 

“In regard to auto trends, I’m seeing a steady increase in rates and more premium payouts,” Samuel said, noting annual increases are hovering around “$200–$300, easy.”

ERIE Insurance is one of the few big players allowing customers to lock in their current auto rates. In comparison to ERIE Insurance’s exchange program, ERIE Rate Lock policyholders should expect a more thorough report to conducted, including credit and driving record checks, as well as an evaluation of the vehicle and how it is stored.

“Driving history will dictate placement pretty quickly,” Samuel explained. “As long as you don’t make a policy change, such as a new new driver or vehicle, they don’t run reports at your renewal.”

Following a nationwide rash of auto thefts involving Kia and Hyundai vehicles, owners of such makes are also feeling the sting of rising insurance bills. 

“I have clients who had those vehicles and their rates skyrocketed because of the probability of them being stolen,” he added, reinforcing his recommendation of locking in rates now. 

The biggest downside to ERIE’s offer? Some policyholders may experience sticker shock should they make changes to their policy, which releases the lock and applies current rates.

How Lelieart Insurance Agency Can Help

With years of experience riding motorcycles himself, Samuel understands the unique needs and risks associated with this activity. 

“If it’s unfair to our client,” he said, “we’re going to step in.”

Have a question or not sure where to start with your coverage? Samuel can help clients select the best available options, including med pay, comprehensive collision insurance, the ERIE Rate Lock and more.

Avoid risking your ride — or worse.

Call Samuel Hoover and the Leliaert Insurance Agency today for the coverage you need to ride with peace of mind.

The post MedPay, Rate Locks, Motorcycles & More with Samuel Hoover, Outside Sales Agent appeared first on Leliaert Insurance Agency.

Most insurance companies require applicants of conventional life insurance policies to fill out a health questionnaire and undergo a medical examination. However, if you are in poor health or simply don’t want to go through the hassle of a medical exam, you can still purchase life insurance. 

There are a few life insurance policies that do not require a medical exam. This can be a great option for someone who is in poor health and may not qualify for life insurance through traditional means. There are three main types of life insurance policies that do not require a medical exam: final expense insurance, guaranteed issue life policy and convertible term life policy. 

Each of these policies has its own perks and drawbacks, so it’s important to do your research before deciding which one is right for you.

CONVERTIBLE TERM LIFE INSURANCE

Convertible term life insurance is a type of life insurance that can be converted into a whole or universal insurance policy without an additional health screen, before the term is finished. 

This may be an appropriate policy for someone who is starting out with life insurance and wants the flexibility to convert their policy in the future, especially in the event of poor health. 

When convertible life insurance policyholders convert to a permanent policy, the benefit will remain the same and the premium usually increases. Prior to the conversion, convertible term life insurance policies typically have higher premiums than other types of term life insurance, as there is a built-in cost for the potential change.

FINAL EXPENSE INSURANCE

Final expense insurance is a type of whole life insurance policy that is specifically designed to cover end-of-life expenses, such as funeral costs and outstanding medical bills, though beneficiaries can choose to spend the money as they please. One of the benefits of final expense insurance is that it includes a cash value growth component, which means that the policy will build up cash value over time that can be used to cover other expenses.

Final expense insurance is also referred to as funeral insurance, burial insurance, simplified issue whole life insurance or modified whole life insurance, with a death benefit averaging anywhere between $2,000 and $50,000. 

GUARANTEED ISSUE LIFE INSURANCE

Guaranteed issue life insurance is a type of coverage that is guaranteed to be approved, regardless of your health status. This can be a good option for someone who has been denied life insurance in the past due to their health.

However, guaranteed issue life insurance policies typically have much higher premiums than other types of life insurance, so it’s important to weigh the costs and benefits before deciding if this is the right fit for you. Death benefits typically cap at $25,000 for a guaranteed life insurance policy. 

Guaranteed issue life insurance does not require a medical exam, health questionnaire or allow insurance companies to review medical records.

Contact a Leliaert Insurance agent today to learn more about life insurance policy options.

The post Can I get life insurance without a medical exam? appeared first on Leliaert Insurance Agency.

For homeowners or prospective first-time buyers, it’s essential to understand homeowners’ insurance for asset protection and peace of mind. 

This type of insurance safeguards your belongings, home’s interior and exterior in the event of a fire, smoke damage, theft, vandalism or other natural disaster, such as lightning, wind or hail. Homeowners’ insurance can also cover liability; living expenses, if you are displaced due to a covered incident; as well as medical payments in the event someone is injured in your home, among other aspects of protection. 

WHAT TO EXPECT

The first step toward obtaining homeowners’ insurance is to gather quotes from different providers; this will give you a general idea of the cost and what is covered. Be sure to check with your auto insurance provider, as they are usually able to bundle packages together for better rates. Remember, homeowners should always aim for the policy with the best coverage at the lowest premiums. 

When getting quotes, be prepared to share information about your credit history and home, such as its location, age and condition, security and safety features, square footage, listing price and more. 

Many homeowners’ policies come with an estimation of the total loss coverage for a property, based on public data and the information you supply. However, if homeowners disagree with this assessment or would like more coverage, they can request it. Newer homes will usually require a higher premium as they would be more costly to rebuild if destroyed. 

Furthermore, you only need homeowner’s insurance to replace the house, not the land itself. The cost of land accounts for a large percentage of property value; don’t be surprised if a $400,000 property requires $150,000 worth of coverage. Your insurer should be able to guide you through the probable replacement cost. 

WHAT’S NOT COVERED

Homeowners’ insurance doesn’t cover everything, however, such as flooding. If a property is located in a flood-prone area, homeowners will need to purchase flood insurance, a special policy that is federally backed by the National Flood Insurance Program and available for both homeowners and businesses. Similar to other types of insurance, the higher the deductible, the lower your premium. 

According to the Indiana Department of Insurance, “some companies offer a Hydrostatic Pressure Endorsement to insure your property for the increased exertion of water on the foundation of your structure, a condition frequently accompanying the rising waters of a flood, however, most of these endorsements only cover collapse of the structure due to hydrostatic pressure and do not insure for damage, other than building collapse, due to hydrostatic pressure accompanying the flood.”

Earthquakes, landslides and sinkholes aren’t covered in most cases, though such policies do exist. 

In the case of dog bites, a homeowners’ policy could cover the incident to the limits of your liability coverage, which varies. If the cost exceeds the coverage limit, you would be responsible for the difference. Additionally, some insurers may not offer coverage if the dog’s breed is historically aggressive.

Items such as jewelry, art, musical gear and collectibles may require additional protection, such as a personal property floater policy. Whether or not they may be covered by flood insurance depends on the policy. 

Other scenarios not usually covered by homeowners’ insurance include damage from lack of maintenance — think pests and mold. If the cause of mold is not from flooding, you might be eligible to file a claim to cover the damage. Your homeowner’s insurance policy includes coverage for some water damage. It all depends on the specific cause by which mold is growing and if it is covered under your policy as a covered peril. To learn more about how mold may be covered by homeowners’ insurance, read our past blog post.

CHECK FOR ELIGIBILITY 

Military service members and their families may also be eligible for discounts on homeowners’ insurance. Qualifications vary by company, but some offer a percentage off of premiums or special rates for active-duty personnel and veterans. 

Some companies also offer discounts for membership in certain organizations, alumni statuses and features that make a home safer, such as an alarm system, or being located in a gated community. Check with your insurer to see if any of these homeowners’ insurance discounts apply to you. 

Leliaert staff members understand the complexities of homeowners’ insurance and can help guide you toward the appropriate policy and peace of mind. Contact us today with your homeowners’ insurance needs.

The post The Basics of Homeowners’ Insurance appeared first on Leliaert Insurance Agency.

In an effort to expand accessibility to COVID-19 testing, private health insurance companies and group health plans are now required to cover over-the-counter, at-home COVID-19 tests. 

FDA-approved diagnostic test purchases on or after Jan. 15 will be covered in the commercial market without the need for a health care provider’s order or clinical assessment, and without any cost-sharing requirements such as deductibles, co-payments or coinsurance, prior authorization, or other medical management requirements, according to a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services release. 

HOW MANY?

Insurance companies and health plans are required to cover eight free tests per covered individual per month. 

There is no limit on the number of tests, including at-home tests, that are covered if ordered or administered by a health care provider following an individualized clinical assessment, including for those who may need them due to underlying medical conditions.

OUT-OF-POCKET COSTS

Some insurers and group health plans have created programs to allow people to get over-the-counter tests directly through preferred pharmacies, retailers or other sources with no out-of-pocket costs. Insurers and plans cover the costs upfront, eliminating the need for consumers to submit a claim for reimbursement. 

REIMBURSEMENT

Insurers and group health plans without a preferred network of pharmacies or retailers to obtain tests without costs are required to fully reimburse over-the-counter purchases.

Insurers and group health plans with a preferred network are required to reimburse purchases from outside preferred networks, at a rate up to $12 per test. For instance, if a person purchased a test online from Amazon, their insurer is still required to reimburse up to $12 per test. 

Consumers should keep their receipts for a claim submission and consult their insurance provider for further steps. 

WHAT IF I DON’T HAVE INSURANCE?

Every household is now eligible for four free COVID-19 rapid tests, available for ordering through covidtests.gov or by calling 1-800-232-0233 or TTY 1-888-720-7489. Tests will typically ship within 7-12 days through the USPS.

For the uninsured, there are also now more than 20,000 free testing sites throughout the country, with a list available here.  

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Workers’ compensation is a type of business insurance paid by an employer that provides benefits, including wage replacement, medical treatment and disability benefits, to employees who suffer from work-related injuries or illnesses. It also provides benefits to dependents in the event of an employee’s death. 

Workers’ compensation insurance is typically required by law for most employers in nearly all states. Texas, unlike other states, does not require an employer to have workers’ compensation coverage. 

HOW HOOSIERS ARE AFFECTED 

In Indiana, all employees of a business must be covered under workers’ compensation insurance. According to state law, sole proprietors, partners, real estate agents and LLC members are excluded from coverage but can choose to be included; corporate officers, such as CEOs and CFOs, are included but can choose to be exempt. 

Additionally, Hoosier employers must purchase insurance from a commercial provider, though approved businesses may self-insure. 

EXCLUSIVE REMEDY

Workers in Indiana are not required to prove their employer was at fault to receive benefits, per the no-fault system created by the Indiana Workers’ Compensation Act, though available benefits only include medical expenses and wage loss.

In some states, employees may be able to pursue a personal injury claim instead or workers’ compensation, which allows claimants to receive benefits for emotional damages and more, with payouts often greater than workers’ compensation benefits.

Generally, personal injury cases in Indiana require the claimant prove the defendant responsible. However, workers’ compensation is considered the “exclusive remedy” for injured workers under Indiana law. Because of this, an injured employee is usually limited to filing a workers’ compensation claim even if the employer is at fault, and injured employees also cannot file a claim against an at-fault co-worker, though there are exceptions. 

CASE SCENARIOS

Types of injuries/scenarios which often lead to workers’ compensation claims include:

• Overexertion — Overworking the body is one of the most common reasons for employees filing a workers’ compensation claim. Activities such as bending, twisting, lifting, pulling, pushing and squatting repeatedly or under difficult conditions can result in injury.

• Exposure to toxic chemicals/environments — Workers in industrial or medical environments may encounter harmful materials, such as caustic liquids, noxious gases or dangerous chemicals including pesticides and asbestos.

• Machinery accidents —User error or mechanical malfunction can cause machinery to injure workers.

• Slips, trips and falls —Wet floors, icy walkways, broken or missing handrails, unsafe stairs, debris and more can cause workers to slip or trip, leading to a fall. These incidents often occur inside grocery stores and restaurants, where liquids are more likely to be spilled, and around the exterior of businesses.

• Struck by object —Falling, swinging, rolling, thrown or dropped objects can strike employees, such as construction workers, warehouse attendants and stockers.

• Electrocution  — Electrocution can cause burns, internal damage, cardiac arrest and other injuries.

• Fires/explosions — Fires and explosions can result in burns, respiratory issues, heart complications, head injuries and hearing loss for exposed workers. 

• Workplace violence — Claims can be filed in cases of violence among co-workers. Corrections officers, social workers and others dealing with incorrigible people may also endure violence in the workplace.  

Speak with a Leliaert Insurance Agency staff member today to help you determine the best fit for your workers’ compensation needs.

The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. 

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