Can you buy insurance by yourself online?

Posted on by Matt McColm
buy insurance by yourself online

I was asked years ago, if I could write an insurance policy myself then why would I use a another broker.

From the Washington Healthplanfinder, Neptune, Squaremouth, DeltaDental, etc there are a ton of places that I can buy insurance for myself. Why would I want another person?

1. I want their training. They get trained by the insurance companies on how the plans function. They have to keep up on their training and have an expertise that you don’t get casually. Your Aunt Betty who worked with insurance ten years ago may not have understand any updates to the industry.

2. They carry insurance on their decision that I don’t have. Professionals that advise people carry insurance. It provides an extra layer if things go wrong.

3. If the insurance company goes sideways then I have someone to assist me in filing a complaint. This is why I use someone contracted with multiple companies. I want my agent to be able to use options.

4. They would be able to tell you particulars about what is going on for a brand in an area. For example, they would know if there is any problems with the local clinic’s contract with Kaiser.

5. They do not fall into the brand trap. You may have had a particular dental plan for years. Folks around you use the same named company with great success. What happens if you grab the cheap version that doesn’t cover what you need?

6. There are differences that you should know.

In Washington State a Producer or agent is what most people will work with. They can be contracted with one or multiple companies.

For Health Insurance, you can work with a navigator who is unlicensed and can not advise you what plans that you can pick. You can also work with a broker, who is licensed, can advise you and fill in any gaps with additional coverage. Both are called in person assisters.

An Insurance Broker is commonly thought as someone who works with multiple companies. Some will have a Surplus Lines Broker to work with more exotic policies. Health Insurance Agents that work with the State Exchange are referred to as brokers. Since brokers don’t represent insurance companies, they can’t bind coverage on behalf of an insurer when purchasing insurance. They must hand over the account to an insurer or insurance agent to complete the transaction.


If you are not able to get a Health Insurance plan now because it is special enrollment then you would be in a better position November 1st when Open Enrollment begins.

An agent (producer) is a vital tool in assisting you shop for an insurance plan. They will have insight into plans from their training and experience. If you can have a conversation with them then you are off to a good start in finding a plan that suits your needs.

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Renters Insurance After a Disaster: Getting Back on Your Feet

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Renters Insurance

Washington State experiences diverse weather conditions throughout the year, ranging from thunderstorms and tornadoes to earthquakes and wildfires. Renters in Wenatchee, WA, must equip themselves with protection against these disasters. Renters insurance is the sole insurance protection for tenants, but it comes with certain limitations.

Does Renters Insurance Cover Natural Disasters?

The coverage depends on the type of natural disaster and the damage it inflicts. Renters’ insurance provides coverage for belongings and injuries within the rental space. It also offers temporary housing if the rental area is damaged. However, it does not cover structural damage to the rental area; that’s the landlord’s responsibility. It also doesn’t cover vehicle damage; your auto insurance covers that.

Renters insurance from Wenatchee Insurance Agency covers most natural disasters, but not all. These include:

  • Hail storms
  • Tornadoes
  • Cyclones
  • Wildfires
  • Blizzards
  • Fire and smoke
  • Lightning strike
  • Ceiling collapse

Renters insurance doesn’t cover floods, earthquakes, mudslides, landslides, and sinkholes. You need separate flood insurance for floods and earthquake insurance for earthquakes. Add-on riders may be available for the others.

Claiming Renters Insurance Compensation

Wenatchee Insurance Agency simplifies the process of filing a renters insurance claim. However, we require your photos, videos, and documentation of injuries, belongings, and property damage. Injuries indicate the amount you need in liability, personal belongings damage shows the amount you need to replace those items, and property damage suggests how much you need for temporary housing.

One of our adjusters will survey the area with you and document injuries, property damage, and damaged belongings. Then, find temporary housing and keep track of receipts. Also, keep track of medical bills for injuries and other important information. We will meet again to discuss and exchange the additional documentation. After verification, we send you a check for everything.

Damage after a natural disaster can disrupt your life, so you need a hassle-free, streamlined process to get you back on track. Renters’ insurance plays a crucial role in this. Visit our Wenatchee, WA office or call us for more information on what renters insurance can do for you.

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How to Find Cheap Home Insurance in North Central Washington

Posted on by Matt McColm
Family home insurance washington state

So, you finally bought your dream home—whether it’s a charming craftsman in Wenatchee, a cozy cabin in Leavenworth, or a fixer-upper in Okanogan that “just needs a little love” (aka a total gut job). Now, before you get lost debating which shade of “rustic sage” to paint the kitchen, let’s talk about home insurance—because you’re going to need it when a windstorm turns your backyard trampoline into your neighbor’s new patio furniture.

But don’t worry! Shayla at Wenatchee Insurance is here to save your budget, your sanity, and maybe even that questionable fence you keep saying you’ll fix “next summer.”

1. Bundle Up Like It’s January in Winthrop

You wouldn’t survive a Methow Valley winter in just a T-shirt, so why would you buy home insurance without bundling it? If you’ve already got auto, life, or even farm insurance, Shayla can combine them to save you money—like when you buy apples by the box at Smallwood’s Harvest instead of one at a time.

2. Raise That Deductible—But Not Too High

A higher deductible means a lower premium, but let’s not get crazy. If your deductible is so high that you’d have to sell your fishing boat to cover it, you might want to reconsider. Shayla can help you find that perfect balance—somewhere between “too expensive” and “I’ll just live with the hole in my roof.”

insurance deductibles are important to the policy

3. Home Improvements = Lower Rates

You might be fixing up your home to impress the in-laws, but some upgrades can also slash your insurance bill. Things like a new roof, better wiring, or an anti-burglar system can earn you major discounts. Plus, if you’ve been putting off replacing that 1970s avocado-green carpet, now you have an excuse.

4. Shop Around Like It’s the Chelan Farmers Market

You wouldn’t just grab the first apple cider bottle you see—you compare prices and samples first. The same goes for insurance. Shayla has access to multiple providers and will do the price-hunting for you, so you don’t have to spend hours on hold with an insurance company in another time zone.

5. Only Pay for What You Need

Do you need hurricane insurance in Wenatchee? No. Do you need wildfire coverage? Absolutely. Shayla helps you customize your policy, so you’re paying for protection against things that could actually happen—like an elk crashing through your fence, not a tsunami.

Wildfire around Central Washington can make insurance tough
Wild Fire along the Columbia River

6. Discounts Are Everywhere—If You Know Where to Look

There are discounts for first-time buyers, retirees, having good credit, and even installing a fire extinguisher. Shayla knows how to uncover these hidden savings, so you can keep more money for important things—like gas money for your next Leavenworth trip.

Call Shayla at Wenatchee Insurance—Your Wallet Will Thank You!

Finding cheap home insurance doesn’t have to be a headache. With Shayla’s expert advice, a few smart decisions, and maybe some minor home upgrades, you’ll get the coverage you need without breaking the bank.

Give Shayla a call today—she’ll help you save money, avoid insurance headaches, and maybe even find a way to finally afford that dream deck with a view of the Columbia River.

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Turning 65? Don’t Panic—Suzie from Wenatchee Insurance Has Your Back!

Posted on by Matt McColm

So, you’re turning 65. Congratulations! You’ve officially leveled up in life. Along with senior discounts at restaurants and the ability to yell at kids to get off your lawn with newfound authority, you now have to deal with something equally exciting (or terrifying): Medicare enrollment.

Turning 65 Suzie from Wenatchee Insurance can help you with Medicare
Suzie helps with important birthdays year round.

Before you run away screaming, let me introduce you to your new best friend—Suzie from Wenatchee Insurance. She’s the kind of insurance expert who can turn Medicare mayhem into something that actually makes sense.

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Wait… Do I Even Have to Sign Up for Medicare?
Great question! If you’re already drawing Social Security, the government enrolls you in Medicare Part A and Part B automatically. Boom. Done. Easy.

But if you’re still working or have insurance through a spouse, you might need to make some decisions. Do you delay Part B? Do you enroll right away? Do you flip a coin and hope for the best? (Hint: Don’t do that last one.)

Suzie can help you figure it out so you don’t get slapped with penalties later. Yes, Medicare penalizes procrastination. Who knew?

Medicare: The Alphabet Soup of Insurance
Medicare comes in four parts, and much like choosing between sugar and salt for your morning coffee, picking the wrong one can be a disaster.

Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers hospital stays, skilled nursing care, and some home health services. Usually free if you worked long enough.
Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services. This one comes with a monthly premium.
Part C (Medicare Advantage): A bundle of A & B (and sometimes D) offered by private insurance companies. These can include perks like dental, vision, and even gym memberships—because apparently, seniors are required to be more active than they were at 40.
Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Because medications aren’t free, and no one wants to take out a second mortgage for allergy pills.
Suzie will help you navigate these options without making your head explode. She’ll translate all the Medicare jargon into normal human language—so you can focus on more important things, like enjoying retirement.

Medicare Supplements vs. Medicare Advantage—Which One’s Right for You?
If Original Medicare (Parts A & B) was a basic car, you’d probably want to add insurance so you’re not left paying for repairs (aka, giant hospital bills). That’s where Medicare Supplements (Medigap) or Medicare Advantage plans come in.

Medigap helps cover out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and coinsurance. Medicare Advantage, on the other hand, rolls everything into one plan, including some extras. It’s like deciding between buying car insurance or getting an all-in-one ride-sharing subscription with bonus perks.

Suzie can break it down for you without using confusing sales talk. She’ll compare plans from different companies and find one that fits your needs, not the one that gives her a bigger commission (because that’s not how Wenatchee Insurance rolls).

Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute!
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) starts three months before your 65th birthday and lasts until three months after. Miss it, and you might have to wait until the next General Enrollment Period—plus, penalties could be lurking in the shadows.

But don’t stress. Suzie’s got this. Whether you need a plan, a translator for Medicare lingo, or just someone to remind you that yes, you are still incredibly cool at 65—she’s here to help.

Call Suzie at Wenatchee Insurance—Because Medicare Shouldn’t Be Scary
Want to skip the stress and actually enjoy turning 65? Call Suzie. She’ll handle the hard part, and you can get back to celebrating your milestone birthday—preferably with cake. Lots of cake.

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RV Insurance Upgrades That May Benefit You During Your Travels

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RV Insurance made simple

 

Will you be using your RV differently than you are accustomed to? Are you headed up to Barter Faire or down to Burning Man. If so, explore coverage options that will protect your RV, RV equipment, and other travel essentials you will be bringing along during a trip.

RV Towing Equipment and More

You may have decided to bring a four-wheeler or other recreational equipment with you. However, your standard RV insurance policy may only cover the RV itself and its personal possessions.

Add-on coverage for recreational equipment, towing equipment, tow bars, and other essentials will cover you if your RV is damaged in a vehicular accident. This type of coverage can also protect against criminal activity or a natural disaster that causes extreme damage or loss.

Keep track of all the items you need to transport your equipment safely. Then, seek add-on coverage that will enhance your RV insurance policy.

Floor Plan Upgrades

If you have upgraded your RV’s floor plan, you may use the space to store new items.

Review the floor plan upgrades you have made. Decide which new items you would like to cover with your RV insurance policy. You can add building materials, appliances, furnishings, or any other value items within your recreational vehicle.

Questions About Your RV Insurance Policy

If you have questions about your RV insurance policy, contact one of our Wenatchee Insurance Agency representatives. An agent who serves the Wenatchee, WA region will discuss your policy and ensure that you understand the type of coverage that your RV and personal possessions are equipped with.

 

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Why You Should Use Suzie of Wenatchee Insurance for a Notary

Posted on by Matt McColm
Suzie is Wenatchee Insurance notary

So, you need a notary. Maybe you’re buying a house, transferring a title, or dealing with paperwork so complicated it makes your head spin. Whatever the reason, you need someone reliable, professional, and—let’s be honest—someone who won’t make the experience feel like a trip to the DMV. That’s where Suzie at Wenatchee Insurance comes in.

Schedule Suzie

1. She Actually Cares About Your Paperwork

You ever meet one of those notaries who barely glances at your documents, stamps them with the enthusiasm of a sleepy sloth, and sends you on your way? Yeah, that’s not Suzie. She knows how important these papers are to you—whether it’s a real estate closing, a power of attorney, or an affidavit stating that, yes, you did in fact sell your cousin’s 1998 Honda Civic. Suzie makes sure every detail is correct so you don’t end up in a mess later.

2. No Judgment Zone

Let’s be real, notary documents are often tied to life’s big moments—buying a home, starting a business, dealing with legal matters. Maybe you’ve had to Google what “jurat” means three times. That’s okay! Suzie isn’t here to make you feel like you should’ve gone to law school. She explains what you need in plain English and ensures you walk away confident that everything is in order.

3. Convenience is Key

Need a notary today? No problem. Wenatchee Insurance isn’t some giant, impersonal office where you have to wait weeks for an appointment. Suzie works with your schedule and makes things as easy as possible. Need her to notarize something fast? She’s got you. Need a friendly face to reassure you that, yes, this is the right document? She’s got you there, too.

4. Local Expertise with a Smile

Suzie knows Wenatchee and North Central Washington like the back of her hand. She understands what documents people in this area commonly need notarized—whether it’s property-related, business agreements, or those all-important DMV forms that could make or break your weekend plans. Plus, she’s actually friendly, which is more than we can say for most bureaucratic processes.

5. One-Stop Shop for Insurance and Notary Needs

Why stop at just a notary? If you’re at Wenatchee Insurance, you might as well have Suzie check out your home, auto, or health insurance while you’re there. Because nothing says “I’m an adult who has my life together” like knocking out two important tasks in one stop.

The Bottom Line

When you need a notary in Wenatchee, Suzie is the one to call. She’s reliable, fast, and makes the process easy. Plus, she won’t judge you if you accidentally bring the wrong form the first time. So, skip the hassle, head to Wenatchee Insurance, and let Suzie take care of business!

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How do I get a surety bond in North Central Washington?

Posted on by Matt McColm
Yes, we do surety bonds at Wenatchee Insurance

Why You Should See Shayla at Wenatchee Insurance for a Surety Bond (And Avoid the DIY Disaster)

Let’s talk about bonds. No, not the kind James Bond carries around in his secret spy wallet—though that would be cool. We’re talking about surety bonds, contractor bonds, notary bonds, and all the other fun financial guarantees that businesses and individuals sometimes need. If that sounds about as exciting as watching paint dry, don’t worry—Shayla at Wenatchee Insurance makes the process painless, simple, and, dare we say, almost enjoyable.

Surety Bonds Are Confusing. Shayla Is Not.

If you’ve ever tried to Google “how to get a surety bond in Washington state,” you probably ended up in a confusing rabbit hole of legal jargon, application forms, and requirements that make no sense. That’s because bonds involve three parties—the principal (you), the obligee (the entity requiring the bond), and the surety (the insurance company backing it). Still with us?

Good news: You don’t need to memorize any of this. Shayla already knows it all. She translates “insurance-speak” into plain English so you understand exactly what you need and why. No more guesswork, no more frustration—just straightforward answers.

Speed Matters—And Shayla Delivers

Need a bond fast? Maybe you just landed a big job as a contractor and need a license bond yesterday. Or perhaps you suddenly realized that your business permit requires a specific bond you didn’t even know existed. Instead of panicking, just call Shayla. She works quickly to get you bonded ASAP so you can move forward with your business (and avoid that scary fine from the state).

Plus, trying to go it alone can lead to mistakes. A small paperwork error could mean delays, rejections, or worse—paying too much for a bond that doesn’t even cover what you need. Shayla knows how to navigate the system, ensuring you get the right bond at the best price, with zero headaches.

Fast Bond connection
construction bonds

Local Expertise, Personal Touch

Sure, you could go online and try to get a bond through some faceless website. But do you really want to deal with a call center in who-knows-where when something goes wrong? With Shayla, you’re working with someone who understands Wenatchee, North Central Washington, and all the specific requirements of our state.

More importantly, she actually cares. Need a reminder when your bond is about to expire? She’s got you covered. Not sure if your business needs additional bonding? She’ll walk you through it. Try getting that level of service from a random internet company.

The Bottom Line: Call Shayla

If you need a bond, don’t make it harder than it has to be. Skip the stress, save time, and go straight to the expert. Call or visit Shayla at Wenatchee Insurance—because when it comes to bonds, it’s always better to have a local expert in your corner.

Need help today? Shayla’s ready—give her a call before you find yourself tangled in a web of bond confusion!

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Update Your Motorcycle Insurance Before Spring Riding Season

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motorcycle insurance wenatchee

Wenatchee Insurance Agency is ready to assist if you’re in the Wenatchee, WA area and planning to update your motorcycle insurance policy. We aim to ensure you can enjoy a great riding season when spring arrives, which is much easier when you have peace of mind. Here’s what you need to know about making important updates to your bike policy.

Review Your Policy With an Agent

Reviewing your policy with one of our agents is the best way to ensure you’re ready to ride when the weather improves. We recommend reviewing your policy at least once a year, and winter can be an ideal time to do so. Since you’re less likely to be riding in cold weather, it’s a great opportunity to focus on bike maintenance, insurance updates, and other details that will prepare you for spring.

Make Necessary Changes for Optimal Protection

Staying protected when you ride is essential. That includes wearing proper gear, focusing on the road ahead, and having a policy that provides the coverage you need. After reviewing your policy and ensuring it’s properly updated, our agents are here to help you make the necessary changes and ensure it’s properly updated. Then, you can ride with confidence, knowing that you have the right insurance in case of a claim. Feeling secure allows you to focus on enjoying the ride without worrying about coverage.

The Right Coverage Makes a Difference

If you live in the Wenatchee, WA, area and need to update your motorcycle insurance policy, contact us today at Wenatchee Insurance Agency. Our dedicated agents are here to help you protect yourself and your motorcycle, preparing you for the spring riding season and all your upcoming adventures.

 

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Where is my 1095 form so I can file taxes

Posted on by Matt McColm
1095 form wenatchee insurance health

The 1095 Form, Taxes, and Individual Health Insurance: A Match Made in (Paperwork) Heaven

Ah, tax season—when we trade our snow shovels for calculators and every mailbox visit feels like a lottery draw, except instead of money, we get… forms. If you’ve got individual health insurance, there’s one form you can’t escape: the 1095. It starts the third week in January. But don’t worry! Suzie from Wenatchee Insurance has seen it all, and with her knack for breaking things down (and a good sense of humor), she’s here to help you understand how your health insurance and taxes go hand-in-hand.

What Is the Mysterious 1095 Form?

The 1095 form is like the awkward cousin of the W-2. It doesn’t hold the keys to your refund, but it’s crucial for showing Uncle Sam you had health insurance last year. Think of it as your golden ticket to avoid paying the “Individual Shared Responsibility Payment” (aka the we-didn’t-see-your-coverage penalty).

If you bought health insurance through the Washington Healthplanfinder, you’ll likely receive a 1095-A. If your coverage came directly from a private insurer, you might get a 1095-B. If you received Apple Health then you may be looking at a 1095-B form. Either way, they both scream, “Proof I’m covered!”

Please note for Apple Health and people with a 1095-B form, the IRS does not require the form.

What Do You Actually Do with the 1095 Form?

Suzie will tell you straight: Don’t panic. When the form arrives, here’s your action plan:

  1. Check it for Errors
    Suzie swears by the two-minute error check. Are your name, address, and Social Security number correct? Is the coverage period accurate? If you spot a mistake, reach out to your insurance provider ASAP.
  2. File It with Your Taxes
    The IRS doesn’t need you to send in the form, but keep it handy. Your tax software or accountant might ask for it to confirm your coverage.
  3. Double-Check Tax Credits
    If you received premium tax credits (yay, lower premiums!), the 1095-A is your BFF for reconciling them on Form 8962. Suzie’s advice? Don’t skip this step—it could mean the difference between a sweet refund and an awkward bill.
Suzie working hard with Ambetter Health Insurance

How Does Individual Health Insurance Affect Your Taxes?

Suzie often says, “Health insurance and taxes are like peanut butter and jelly: a weird combo, but they work.” Here’s how:

  1. Tax Credits
    If you qualified for tax credits through the Marketplace, your 1095-A shows how much the government chipped in. If your income changed during the year and you didn’t update the Marketplace, you might owe (or get back!) some of that credit.
  2. Penalties (Not So Much Anymore)
    Suzie says the big bad penalty is mostly a thing of the past, but some states (like California and New Jersey) still have individual mandates. If you live in one of these, your 1095 form is your get-out-of-jail-free card.
  3. Self-Employed Deductions
    Here’s a silver lining: If you’re self-employed, you might be able to deduct your health insurance premiums. That’s right—your individual plan could save you money on taxes.

Suzie’s Top Tip for Stress-Free Tax Season

Suzie’s golden rule: Organize early, relax later. Don’t let your 1095 form live under a pile of junk mail until April 14th. As soon as it arrives, add it to your tax folder—or, as Suzie calls it, “The Box of Financial Doom.”

If you have lost your 1095 or don’t have a printer then stop in. We do print copies for our clients.

And if you’re confused about your plan, tax credits, or which 1095 form you should expect, don’t hesitate to call Wenatchee Insurance. Suzie and Matt specialize in turning health insurance headaches into manageable to-dos.

When in Doubt, Ask for Help

Taxes are complicated, health insurance is complicated, and when you combine the two? Let’s just say Suzie has seen some impressive forehead wrinkles from her clients. But that’s why Wenatchee Insurance is here—to make things simple, funny, and as painless as possible.

When you have a plan from the Healthplanfinder then you are required to file your taxes every year.

You can file taxes for Free.

The Washington State Department of Revenue has a list of assistors.

So, grab that 1095 form, pour yourself a cup of coffee (or something stronger), and tackle tax season like a champ.

.If you can’t find it then stop in and we will be able to print one out or tell you if you don’t need to include your 1095 form.

appointment with Suzie
Home Health Medicare Car Dental Prescription insurance corndog

Topics: health insurance, tax document, 1095, apple health, Molina, Ambetter, Community Health, Suzie,  Chelan County, Okanogan, Grant County, Douglas County, 509, Leavenworth, Quincy, Cashmere, Entiat,

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Does Boat Insurance Cover My Passengers in an Accident?

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boat insurance wenatchee

 

What about boat insurance? Owning a boat in Wenatchee  provides unique opportunities to explore local waterways along the Columbia River and beyond. If you’re a local boat owner planning to navigate the open waters with friends and loved ones, it’s crucial to have adequate insurance coverage. This protects you, your passengers, and your vessel from potential mishaps that can occur during your journey.

Does Boat Insurance Cover My Passengers in an Accident?

The extent to which your boat insurance covers your passengers in an accident largely depends on the type of boat or watercraft insurance you have. For instance, minimum liability policies may only protect other passengers and vessels in the event of a sideswipe or head-on collision on the water.

Boaters seeking comprehensive coverage often opt for boat or watercraft insurance that can financially protect them and their passengers from a wide range of collision-related and non-collision-related perils. Comprehensive boat insurance can help offset the costs of legal liability claims associated with accidents and help boat owners recoup the costs of boating repairs, total loss replacements, or issues related to theft, natural disasters, and vandalism.

boat insurance at Wenatchee and Chelan

How Do I Know If My Boat Insurance Policy Offers Comprehensive Coverage for Boating Accidents?

The best way to understand exactly what your boat insurance policy covers is to contact a licensed local agent who can explain the provisions of your policy. A well-structured policy will protect your vessel from various standard and uncommon perils.

Contact Wenatchee Insurance Agency in WA for a boat insurance quote and learn more about the coverages you and your passengers are eligible for. Don’t wait until a boating accident or hull damage results in high out-of-pocket expenses.

Call us today for a boat or watercraft insurance quote from Wenatchee Insurance Agency!

 

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