Ah, the joys of car insurance. Just when you thought you had it all figured out, your SR22 insurance decides to take a sick day. Don’t worry, Wenatchee Insurance is here to help you navigate this comedy of errors.
Protip: We have several companies that we write SR22s with. đ
Think of SR22 insurance as the hall monitor of the insurance world. Itâs not actually insurance, but a certificate proving you have insurance. Itâs usually required after youâve had too much âfunâ on the road, like a DUI or too many speeding tickets. Itâs a tell tale sign to simmer down.
The “Oh No!” Moment
So there you are, driving down the 97 watching the ducks on the Columbia River, when you get pulled over. You reach for your insurance papers and… theyâre expired! Panic sets in. You imagine yourself living in a cardboard box under the George Sellar Bridge.
What to Do When Your SR22 Insurance “Calls in Sick”
Stay Calm and Call Shayla: Our favorite property insurance agent at Wenatchee Insurance, Shayla, is always ready to help. Sheâs like the wizard of insurance, turning your pumpkin of a problem into a reliable, roadworthy carriage.
Get Back on Track: Shayla will guide you through the steps to reinstate your SR22. It might involve a bit of paperwork and a fee, but hey, itâs better than trying to live off wild blackberries and Pike Minnows from the Columbia River.
Laugh It Off: Remember, itâs just insurance. Everyone makes mistakes. Even if you have to ride a bike for a few days, at least you’ll get some exercise!
The Moral of the Story
Donât panic. The next time your SR22 insurance decides to take a vacation. Just call Shayla and Wenatchee Insurance. Weâll have you back on the road faster than you can say âuninsured motorist.â
Topics: SR22, auto insurance, car insurance, wenatchee insurance, shayla, high risk, liability, insurance license, Chelan County, Okanogan County, General, Grant County, Douglas county, proof of insurance,
Hey there, savvy insurance seekers in North Central Washington! Today, letâs zoom in on something thatâs not just about covering your health but also about your sparkling smile and eagle-eyed visionâ dental insurance and vision! đŠ·đ
So, why should you care about dental insurance and vision coverage? Well, picture this: youâre chomping down on your favorite Granny Smith apple (because who doesnât love those?) and suddenlyâCRACK! A dental emergency strikes. Now, without the right coverage, that apple might turn into an expensive dental disaster! Thatâs where Suzie at Wenatchee Insurance swoops in like a dental superhero, offering plans that protect your pearly whites without breaking the bank.
While a majority of dental plans have waiting periods for major services. We do have a couple that can start the following month with items such as root canals and other big ticket items. If you have something going on or a favorite dentist then we need to know to get you the coverages that you need.
If you are in our office in Wenatchee, you can ask about his graveyard shift at Treetop, a leatherman file and a broken tooth. It was his tipping point to stop being silly and get dental insurance.
But wait, thereâs more! Ever lost your glasses right before an important presentation? Or needed new contact lenses pronto because you mistook your dog for your boss? đ¶đ Donât worry; Wenatchee Insurance has your back (or should we say your eyes?) with vision plans that keep you seeing clearly, even when your dog looks suspiciously like your boss!
So, whether youâre a teeth-whitening enthusiast or someone who just wants to avoid confusing their pets with their colleagues, check out Wenatchee Insurance for dental and vision coverage thatâll have you smiling and squint-free in no time!
At Wenatchee Insurance, we have several different companies offering dental options. In Central Washington, we have very limited vision coverage so we have conversations with clients.
Topics: Dental, Vision, VSP, Delta Dental, Wenatchee Insurance, Suzie, Enrollment, Glasses, Contacts, Chelan County, Okanogan, Grant County, Douglas County, Leavenworth
Hey there, from Eastern Washington! Today, we are diving into a topic that’s as hot as the Yakima Training Center in Augustâinsurance coverage for wildfire damage with our trusty band of heroes at Wenatchee Insurance Agency! đČđ„đŒ
Picture this: you’re enjoying a peaceful evening watching the ducks on Lake Wenatchee, maybe sipping on your favorite malt beverage, when suddenly, the word “wildfire” starts buzzing on every social media network. Yonks! Panic mode? Not with the team of Wenatchee Insurance by your side!
What is the deal with wildfire insurance coverage? First off, Wenatchee Insurance isn’t just your average insurance agency; they’re wizards of wildfire protection. Whether it’s ensuring your humble abode stays safe or your beloved outdoor gear survives the inferno, they’ve got your back like a firefighter with a superpower cape.
Now, we know what you’re thinking: “But how do they do it?” It’s simple, really. Wenatchee Insurance doesn’t just hand you a policy and wish you luck. They’re like the Gandalf of insuranceâalways there when you need them, guiding you through the murky forest of insurance jargon. Need coverage for that vintage camper you cherish? Covered. Worried about your precious garden gnomes? They’ve got a plan for that too!
And let’s talk claims. Ever had to file an insurance claim and felt like you were navigating a maze blindfolded? Not with Wenatchee Insurance. They make it as smooth as warm butter on hot toast. Just dial Shayla (yes, the insurance whisperer herself) and poof! Your claim is in good hands faster than you can say “apple pie.”
But here’s the kickerâthe best part about Wenatchee Insurance isn’t just their expertise; it’s their sense of community. They’re not just here to sell you a policy; they’re your neighbors, your pals, your partners in wildfire defense. Because let’s face it, when flames dance on the horizon, you don’t just want insurance. You want peace of mind, wrapped in a blanket of trust and understanding.
So, whether you’re a seasoned wildfire survivor or a newbie in the realm of insurance wonders, remember one thing: with Wenatchee Insurance Agency, you’re not just protectedâyou’re part of a fiery family (the good kind, of course).
Stay safe, stay covered, and remember to hug your insurance agent (from a safe distance)!
Topics: Home Insurance, Wenatchee insurance, Shayla, high risk, liability, wildfire, brush fire, Chelan County, Okanogan County, General, Grant County, Douglas county, proof of insurance,
Hey North Central Washington, itâs Suzie with Wenatchee Insurance. Today, we are talkinâ about  Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap. Think of Medigap as the baked potato to your Medicare steak, helping cover the costs that Original Medicare doesnât.
Medigap plans are sold by private insurance companies and are designed to fill the “gaps” in Original Medicare. These gaps include out-of-pocket costs like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Example!
Meet Barney, whoâs enjoying his retirement but worried about potential healthcare costs. He decides to get a Medigap plan to cover expenses that Original Medicare doesnât. Now, Barney can focus on detailing his Corvette instead of medical bills.
Standardized Medigap Plans: One Size Fits Most
Medigap plans are standardized, meaning each plan offers the same basic benefits regardless of the insurance company. There are ten standardized plans (Plan A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N), each offering a different level of coverage.
Standardized plans allow a client to shop based on price in the middle of the year.
Example!
Imagine Joan, who travels frequently. She chooses Medigap Plan G because it covers emergency care when traveling outside the U.S., giving her peace of mind on her adventures.
Whatâs Covered?
Medigap plans help cover costs like:
Part A coinsurance and hospital costs
Part B coinsurance or copayments
First three pints of blood
Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayments
Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance
Part A and B deductibles (depending on the plan)
Foreign travel emergency care
Example Time!
Consider Bob, who needs regular blood transfusions. His Medigap plan covers the cost of the first three pints of blood each year, saving him from unexpected expenses.
How to Enroll?
To enroll in a Medigap plan, you must already have Medicare Part A and Part B. The best time to buy a Medigap policy is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which lasts for six months and starts the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Part B. During this period, you can buy any Medigap policy sold in your state, regardless of your health status.
Protip: We have a lot of members who review their Medigap plan and switch in early summer to reduce inflation.
Example!
Imagine Sally, who just turned 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B. She takes advantage of her Medigap Open Enrollment Period to get a policy without worrying about being denied coverage due to her pre-existing conditions. The Guarantee Issue is a game changer for people who have struggled with co-payments for under 65 healthcare.
Suzie @ Wenatchee Insurance
Weâre here to help you navigate the world of Medigap with ease. Our knowledgeable agents can explain the different plans, help you compare options, and ensure you choose the coverage that best fits your needs.
Remember, understanding Medigap doesnât have to be a daunting task. With Suzie helping out, youâll find the perfect potato for your Medicare steak in no time.
Stay tuned for more tips, tricks, and helpful advice from Suzie!
Just like your annual doctorâs check up, your home insurance policy needs regular reviews to stay in good shape. Letâs talk about the why, when, and how with Wenatchee Insurance.
The Annual Check-Up Once a year, take a look at your policy. Think of it as a wellness check for your home insurance. Are all your coverages up to date? Have you made any significant changes to your home that need to be included? Is there a lot of inflation?
Post-Renovation Review Did you just build that dream kitchen or add a new deck? Time to update your policy. Renovations can increase the value of your home, and youâll want your coverage to reflect that shiny new gourmet stove.
Bonus: A new roof can reduce Home Insurance cost.
Major Purchase Alert Did you buy a new Steinway piano or inherit paintings from your Great Aunt Gates? Big-ticket items should be added to your policy to ensure theyâre covered. Some categories have limits and may require an endorsement. Itâs like adding vitamins to your diet â essential for overall health.
Neighborhood Changes Has your area experienced changes in risk factors, like an unkept field or new construction? Time for a review. Just as youâd adjust your diet if your environment changed, adjust your insurance to match your surroundings.
Life Changes New family members, a new pet, or even a change in your job status can all impact your insurance needs. Keep your policy in sync with your life. Itâs like updating your wardrobe to fit your current lifestyle.
With Wenatchee Insurance, keeping your home insurance policy up to date is as easy as scheduling your next check-up. Stay protected and stay informed!
Hey, itâs Wenatchee Insurance! We are answering a classic question today, what are the differences between Medicare and Medicaid. We are going to use a Golden example:
Itâs 2024, youâre sitting with Blanche, Dorothy, Rose, and Sophia in Miami, and youâre scratching your head over the differences between Medicare and Medicaid. Sit tight and grab a cheesecake because weâre about to unravel this mystery Golden Girls style!
Medicare: The Senior Superstar
Dorothy: “Alright, letâs start with Medicare. Itâs like Stan â itâs been around forever. Medicare is a federal program mainly for folks aged 65 and older. It also covers younger individuals with certain disabilities and those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Think of Medicare as the golden ticket for our seasoned citizens.”
Medicaid: The Need-Based Nurturer
Blanche: “Oh honey, Medicaid is a whole different ball game. Itâs a joint federal and state program that helps people with limited income and resources. Itâs like that nice gentleman who insists on paying for your drinks at the Rusty Anchor â itâs there to lend a hand when you need it most.”
Who Qualifies?
Medicare:
Rose: “If youâre 65 or older and worked your credits, congratulations, you qualify! But even if youâre younger and have disabilities or ESRD, youâre still in the club.”
Medicaid:
Sophia: “Eligibility for Medicaid is trickier than finding a good cannoli in Miami. It depends on your income, family size, and sometimes disability or other factors. Each state has its own rules â itâs like trying to follow Roseâs stories about St. Olaf.”
Example Time!
Dorothy: “Meet George, a 68-year-old retiree. Heâs eligible for Medicare because heâs over 65. Now, consider Anna, a single mother with a low income. She qualifies for Medicaid to help cover her childrenâs medical expenses. Simple as pie, right?”
What Do They Cover?
Medicare:
Blanche: “Medicareâs got you covered for hospital stays (Part A), doctor visits and outpatient care (Part B), Medicare Advantage (Part C), and prescription drugs (Part D). Itâs like having a fabulous wardrobe â everything you need, you just have to mix and match beforehand .”
Medicaid:
Rose: “Medicaid covers a broader range of services, including hospital and doctor visits, long-term care, and sometimes even dental and vision care. Itâs like the St. Olaf Cheese Festival â thereâs something for everyone!”
Example Time!
Sophia: “Imagine Sue, who has both Medicare and Medicaid (dual eligibility). Medicare covers her hospital and medical expenses, while Medicaid helps with additional costs like long-term care and some out-of-pocket expenses. Sueâs got the best of both worlds â like having cheesecake for dinner and dessert!”
How Are They Funded?
Medicare:
Dorothy: “Medicare is funded by payroll taxes, premiums, and general revenue. Itâs as straightforward as Blancheâs love life â always funded by someone.”
Medicaid:
Sophia: “Medicaid, on the other hand, is jointly funded by the federal government and the states. The feds match state spending, with the match rate varying by state. Itâs like a family potluck â everyone brings something to the table.”
Example Time!
Rose: “Think of Medicare as a national program with uniform rules. Medicaid is more like St. Olafâs festivals â each state adds its own unique twist to the overall picture.”
Wenatchee Insurance: Your Dual Eligibility Expert
Blanche: “Navigating the differences between Medicare and Medicaid can feel like one of Roseâs long stories. But donât worry, darling, Suzie at Wenatchee Insurance is here to guide you through every twist and turn.”
Dorothy: “Our knowledgeable agents can help you understand which program you qualify for and how to make the most of your benefits. Remember, understanding Medicare and Medicaid doesnât have to be a puzzle.”
Sophia: “With Wenatchee Insurance by your side, youâll find your way in no time. So stay tuned for more insights, tips, and helpful advice. And always remember â thank you for being a friend!”
Topics: Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Suzie, Wenatchee Insurance, SSDI, ESRD, Hospital Insurance, Prescription Drug Coverage, Part D, Medical Insurance, Disability, Dual Eligible, Dual SNP,
We like to review policies with our clients at Wenatchee Insurance to look for exclusions or limitations.
Exclusions and Limitations basics:
The Fine Print Follies
Reading the fine print of your home insurance policy can feel like deciphering an ancient scroll. But fear not! Wenatchee Insurance is here to help you uncover any exclusions or limitations, with a touch of humor to keep you entertained.
The Mystery of the Mold Exclusion You might think mold is just a minor inconvenience, but in the insurance world, itâs often excluded. Itâs like finding out King Pizza doesnât deliver to your side of the Columbia River â a disappointing surprise!
The Infamous Flood Exclusion Floods are the party crashers of natural disasters, not covered by standard homeownersâ policies. Make sure you have separate flood insurance, or youâll be left high and dry â or rather, wet and uninsured.
Lenders will require flood insurance when you move to certain FEMA-designated flood zones so be prepared for this added cost when buying a new home.
The Earthquake Enigma Earthquakes arenât always part of the standard package. Itâs like ordering a burger and realizing fries are extra. We do get tremors in Washington state, so consider adding earthquake coverage to avoid a costly shake-up.
The Termite Terror Termites might be small, but they can cause big damage. Unfortunately, most policies exclude insect damage. Itâs like finding out your least favorite insect is planning a surprise visit. Regular inspections and pest control can help keep them at bay.
The Mysterious Maintenance Issues Routine maintenance issues like plumbing leaks or roof repairs are generally your responsibility. Itâs like realizing you have to do your own laundry â a necessary chore that insurance wonât cover.
The Pet Problem Got a furry friend with a penchant for destruction? Most policies donât cover pet-related damage. Itâs like discovering your adorable puppy has a dark side. Keep Fido out of trouble to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Summary
Wenatchee Insurance helps you navigate the fine print so youâre never caught off guard by exclusions or limitations. Stay informed and stay protected!
Hey itâs Suzie with Wenatchee Insurance coming in from 413 Mission Street! Today, we’re tackling the question thatâs as tricky as choosing the right toppings for your pizza: âHow do I choose the right Medicare plan for me?â Like finding the perfect slice, selecting the right Medicare plan requires a bit of thought, a touch of flair, and maybe a dash or two of pepperoni.
First up, you need to understand your healthcare cravings â I mean, needs. Ask yourself:
How often do I visit the doctor? Does your doctorâs office know your catâs favorite toy, or do you just drop by for an annual tune-up like a leaf in the wind?
What meds am I taking? Is your nightstand a mini-pharmacy, or do you have a couple of trusty prescriptions?
Who are my favorite healthcare providers? Do you have a doc youâd follow to the ends of the earth (or at least across town)?
Example Time!
Take Rita. Sheâs got more doctor appointments than a socialite has lunch dates and takes a medicine cabinetâs worth of prescriptions. She needs a plan that covers all her meds and keeps her favorite doctors in-network. Ritaâs Medicare plan hunt is like finding the perfect pair of shoes: practical, stylish, and something you can walk miles in.
Step 2: Check Out the Menu (Plan Options)
Hereâs the Medicare menu:
Original Medicare (Parts A & B): The classic. Like a good cheese pizza, itâs dependable and straightforward.
Medicare Advantage (Part C): The supreme combo. These plans, offered by private companies, bundle Parts A, B, and usually Part D, plus extra toppings like vision, dental, and gym memberships.
Medicare Part D: Standalone prescription drug plans. Itâs like adding a side of garlic knots.
Medigap (Medicare Supplement): These plans cover costs that Original Medicare doesnât. Think of it as the Ranch dipping sauce for your crust.
Example Time!
Picture John. Heâs a minimalist at heart. Original Medicare with a side of Medigap is his go-to. No frills, just solid coverage that gets the job done, like a perfectly baked Margherita pizza.
Step 3: Compare the Costs (Count the Dough)
Donât get caught with an empty wallet. Hereâs what to look at:
Premiums: Your monthly fee â like your subscription to that pizza-of-the-month club.
Deductibles: The amount you pay before coverage kicks in. Consider it your ante at the poker table.
Copayments/Coinsurance: Your share of the bill â like splitting the tab on pizza night.
Out-of-pocket maximums: The most youâll pay in a year before insurance takes over. Think of it as your âall-you-can-eatâ cap.
Example Time!
Meet Mary. Sheâs on a tight budget but loves a good value. She compares plans to find one with low premiums and reasonable out-of-pocket costs, ensuring she doesnât end up eating ramen instead of pizza.
Why be boring, life is short.
Step 4: Star Ratings (Yelp for Medicare)
Medicare plans come with star ratings (1 to 5 stars). Think of it as checking Yelp reviews before trying a new pizza joint.
Example Time!
Tom wants the best of the best. He checks out the 5-star Medicare Advantage plans, ensuring heâs getting top-notch service, like dining at a five-star pizzeria.
Get Expert Help (Call the Pizza Hotline)
Feeling overwhelmed? Donât worry! Wenatchee Insurance agents are like your personal pizza hotline. Weâll help you compare plans, answer your questions, and find the perfect Medicare pie for you.
Example Time!
Jane was lost in the sauce until she called Wenatchee Insurance. With expert guidance, she found a plan that fit her health needs and budget, like a pizza made just for her.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Medicare plan is like finding your favorite pizza: once you get the right combo, itâs pure bliss. With Wenatchee Insurance by your side, youâll be enjoying your perfect Medicare slice in no time. Stay tuned for more insights, tips, and plenty of cheesy puns!
What if you are at the Chelan County Fair, and you have to choose between the giant purple monkey or the smaller, but equally cute, stuffed llama. This choice is like deciding on your deductible and understanding how it affects your premium cost with Wenatchee Insurance Agency.
The High Deductible Option: The Giant Purple Monkey It is like opting for a high deductible when you go for the giant purple monkey. Youâll save money on your premiums. However, if disaster strikes like fire, youâll need to cough up more cash upfront to cover the deductible first. Itâs a gamble, but the savings can be worth it if you donât foresee many claims in your future.
The Low Deductible Option: The Smaller Stuffed llama Choosing a lower deductible is like going for the smaller, safer stuffed llama. Your premiums will be higher, but youâll pay less out of pocket if something happens. There is no drama to this llama. Itâs a safer bet for those who prefer peace of mind.
The Mid-Range Choice: The Best of Both Worlds Canât decide? Go for a mid-range deductible. Itâs like choosing the medium-sized prize â balanced and reasonable. You can have moderate premiums and a manageable deductible.
Bonus prize
The Premium-Boosting Mystery Box Remember, your premium is influenced by other factors too, like your homeâs location, age, condition of the roof and safety features. Just like opening a mystery box at the carnival â you never know what youâre going to get until all factors are considered.
It is why we prefer to have conversations with our clients as sometimes we can uncover discounts that you do not know existed.
Navigate the deductible dilemma with Wenatchee Insurance and find the perfect balance that suits your needs and budget. Happy insuring!
Hey North Central Washington, from Wenatchee Insurance on Mission street! Today, weâre diving into the nuts and bolts of Medicare cost. Understanding these costs will help you make the best decisions for your bank account and health.
Medicare isnât free, but understanding its costs is as easy as pie (or at least as easy as a slice). (When Medicare first came out in 1966, the annual deductible for Part A was $40, and the monthly premium for Part B was $3.) There are programs for low income however that is another post. Hereâs the breakdown:
Medicare Part A: Hospital Insurance
Premium: Most people donât pay a premium for Part A if theyâve worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters). If you havenât, you might pay up to $506 per month.
Deductible: In 2024, the deductible for each benefit period is $1,600.
Coinsurance: After the deductible, you pay coinsurance for hospital stays:
Days 1-60: $0 per day
Days 61-90: $400 per day
Days 91 and beyond: $800 per âlifetime reserve dayâ (up to 60 days over your lifetime)
Medicare cost example!
Meet Sam, whoâs 65 and newly retired. Since he worked for over 30 years, he doesnât pay a Part A premium. After a brief hospital stay, heâs grateful his deductible and coinsurance costs are manageable.
Medicare Part B: Medical Insurance
Premium: The standard premium for Part B in 2024 is $164.90 per month, but it can be higher based on your income (IRMAA).
Deductible: The annual deductible is $233.
Coinsurance: After meeting the deductible, you typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for most doctor services, outpatient therapy, and durable medical equipment.
Consider Lucy, who loves her yearly wellness visits. She pays her monthly Part B premium and a small deductible, but thanks to Medicare, her out-of-pocket costs for doctor visits and preventive care are minimal.
Part C: Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage Plans vary in cost, depending on the plan and provider. Some plans have low or even $0 premiums but may have different deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums. These plans vary from company to company and can even be different by zip codes in the same state. We recommend having a trained person walk you through these plans.
Medicare cost example!
Picture John, who chooses a Medicare Advantage Plan with a $50 monthly premium but no additional deductible. His plan includes vision and dental coverage, making it a sweet deal for his needs.
Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage
Premium: Varies by plan, with an average of around $33 per month.
Deductible: Some plans have a deductible, which can be up to $480.
Copayments/Coinsurance: Costs vary based on the medication tier and whether you use a preferred pharmacy.
Note if you do not sign up for Part D or have credibly prescription coverage then you can have a penalty from Medicare.
Wenatchee Insurance: Your Budget Buddy
At Wenatchee Insurance, we understand that navigating Medicare costs can feel like assembling a financial jigsaw puzzle. But donât worry â weâre here to help you piece it all together. Suzie at Wenatchee Insurance can provide personalized guidance and ensure you understand all the costs involved.
Remember, folks, planning for Medicare doesnât have to be a budget-busting headache.
For nearly a decade we have assisted with Health & Medicare Solutions. We are proud to be selected by the Washington Healthplanfinder to be one of ten Enrollment Centers located in Washington State.
