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Wenatchee, WA 98801

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What happens if my home is underinsured?

We like to do cost estimators on property prior to quote. It reduces the chance of a property being underinsured. This is especially problematic when rewriting older policies that have not been maintained and periods of high inflation.

Forgive us as we show some math in this example.

Here we break down the example where your house is valued at $500,000, insured for $400,000, and incurs partial damage worth $50,000 in a fire:

  1. Policy Limit: Your insurance policy covers up to $400,000. This is the maximum amount the insurance company will pay in case of damage.
  2. Damage Assessment: The damage to your home is assessed at $50,000.
  3. Underinsurance Factor: Since your home is underinsured (it’s insured for $400,000 but is worth $500,000), you have only insured 80% of its value ($400,000/$500,000)×100=80($400,000/$500,000)×100=80.
  4. Claim Settlement: Insurance companies often use the “coinsurance clause” in such scenarios. This clause means that if you have not insured your property to at least a certain percentage of its value (often around 80-90%), the insurance company may reduce the payout for partial losses.

Let’s calculate the potential payout:

  1. If your policy has a coinsurance clause requiring at least 80% coverage, you are just at the threshold and your claim might be fully paid.
  2. However, if the requirement is higher than 80%, your claim payment could be reduced. For example, if the requirement is 90%, the calculation would be:

Claim Payment=Damage Amount×(Insurance CoverageRequired Coverage)Claim Payment=Damage Amount×(Required CoverageInsurance Coverage​)

So, it would be:

$50,000×($400,000$450,000(90% of $500,000))≈$44,444$50,000×($450,000(90% of $500,000)$400,000​)≈$44,444

This means you would receive about $44,444, and you’d have to cover the remaining $5,556 out of pocket.

  1. Out-of-Pocket Expenses: In the scenario where the full claim isn’t covered due to the coinsurance clause, you will need to pay the difference between the claim payment and the actual damage cost.
  2. Policy Review: This example highlights the importance of regularly reviewing your insurance coverage to ensure it matches the current value of your property, especially after significant changes in market value or property improvements. Having a conversation with your local independent agency can save a lot of headaches prior to claims.

The specifics can vary based on the terms of your insurance policy and local regulations, so it’s crucial to understand the details of your insurance coverage and any coinsurance requirements.

If it has been more than two presidents since you have talked with an Insurance Agent then we want to talk with you.

We make quotes easy

Topics: Wenatchee Insurance, Chelan, Home Insurance, Fire Insurance, Claims, Coinsurance, Deductible, Independent Insurance Agent,  

Contractors have special needs when it comes to insurance in Central Washington

As a contractor, it’s crucial to have insurance to protect your business from various risks.

Here are seven types of insurance you should consider:

1. General Liability Insurance: This insurance provides coverage for damage or injuries that might occur due to your job. For instance, if you accidentally damage someone’s property while working, this insurance can pay for repairs. In Washington State, Labor, and Industries will want to have proof on file.

Link to L & I

2. Professional Liability Insurance: Also known as Completed Operations Coverage, this coverage protects you against claims where your work is alleged to have caused a financial loss. If a client claims that an error in your work caused them to lose money, professional liability insurance would cover your legal costs and any settlements.

3. Commercial Auto Insurance: If your business involves the use of vehicles, commercial auto insurance is necessary. This provides coverage for accidents, injuries, and property damage related to company-owned or leased vehicles.

4. Builders Risk Insurance: This insurance, also known as Course of Construction Insurance, provides coverage for the project itself from damage or loss due to events like fire, theft, or severe weather conditions. It can be done for new construction or a remodel job.

5. Tools and Equipment Insurance: This insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing your equipment due to theft or unexpected breakdowns. It does not cover normal wear and tear.

6. Commercial Umbrella Insurance: This insurance provides an extra layer of protection beyond the limits of your other policies. If a claim exceeds the coverage limits of your other insurance, commercial umbrella insurance can cover the excess costs.

7. Surety Bonds: These act as a guarantee that you will fulfill the terms of your contract. If you fail to do so, the bond can pay to have the job completed. Some jobs will require additional bonds if you win the bid.

Remember, the specific insurance requirements can vary depending on the nature of your work and where you operate. Therefore, it’s a good idea to consult with your independent insurance agent to ensure you have the right coverage.

Topics: Contractor Insurance, Business Liability, Surety Bond, Builder’s Risk, Commercial Auto, Completed Operations, General Contractor, Sub, Handyman, LandI Labor and Industries, Tools and Equipment,

What are the top 10 reasons to get life insurance

Does Medical Crowdfunding work? The American Journal of Public Health found that only 12% of medical GoFundMe campaigns reached their goals and a whopping 16% received no donations at all. Passing a hat to pay for expenses sucks and I would not wish that on anyone.

Alternate to GoFundMe

Let’s keep it light. Here are the top 10 humorous reasons you might consider getting life insurance:

  1. Ghost Support: To make sure your ghost can haunt in style, with the latest ethereal gadgets like the “Boo-Bluetooth” or “Specter-Spectacles.”
  2. Debt Zombie Apocalypse: Life insurance helps ensure that your debts don’t rise from the grave to haunt your family, because the only thing worse than actual zombies is debt zombies.
  3. Funeral Extravaganza: So you can afford a funeral that’s less “sob and sniffle” and more “rock concert with pyrotechnics,” because you always wanted to go out with a bang!
  4. Mortgage-B-Gone Magic: Wave that wand and say goodbye to the mortgage! It’s the financial equivalent of a vanishing act for the ultimate peace of mind.
  5. Kid’s College Fund… or Bail Money: Whether it’s for their education or in case they take after your wild younger days, you’ve got it covered!
  6. Inheritance Roulette: Leave a game of financial Clue for your relatives. “I bequeath my collection of rare cheese labels to… the one who can stand on one leg the longest.”
  7. Guilt-Free Shopping Spree: Gives your partner the chance to indulge in retail therapy without the guilt, because “Honey, it’s what they would’ve wanted.”
  8. Secret Lair Maintenance Fund: Keeps your secret lair in tip-top condition for future generations of family super-villains or superheroes. Your kid could be Batman. Your legacy of mysterious hideouts lives on!
  9. The “I Told You So” Clause: For all the times you said you’d die before going to your in-laws’ house for dinner… and well, you want to be a person of your word.
  10. Santa Replacement Service: Ensures that Christmas remains a jolly affair with a professional Santa to fill your boots. Elves and reindeer rentals are, however, optional extras.

Remember, while it’s fun to add a touch of humor, life insurance is a serious matter that helps provide financial security for those you care about most! We will assist you along the way.

Topics: Wenatchee Insurance, Life Insurance, Term Life, Whole Life, Family Planning, Final Expense, Health, Medicare, Chelan, Okanogan, Leavenworth, Liability,

What are the benefits to Medicare?

Insurance Bundle

Medicare, since was signed into law on July 30, 1965, by President Lyndon B. Johnson, has had a profound impact on the health and well-being of seniors in the United States.

Some of the major benefits include:

Improved Access to Healthcare: Prior to Medicare only a little over half aged 65 and older had some type of hospital coverage. There were numerous instances where private insurance companies were terminating health policies for aged persons in the high-risk category

Financial Protection: Before Medicare, healthcare expenses were a significant financial burden for many seniors. By providing coverage for various health services, Medicare has reduced the out-of-pocket medical expenses for seniors.

Increased Life Expectancy: Improved access to healthcare services and treatments through Medicare has contributed to increased life expectancy for seniors. We gained almost a decade of life expectancy.

Quality of Care: Over the years, Medicare has implemented various measures and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of care received by beneficiaries. By setting standards and promoting best practices, Medicare has influenced healthcare quality not just for its own beneficiaries, but for the entire U.S. healthcare system.

Shift to Preventive Care: Medicare has placed an emphasis on preventive services, offering screenings and tests at no or low cost. This not only helps in the early detection of diseases but also reduces the long-term costs of treating advanced diseases.

Support for Health Innovation: Medicare, due to its sheer size, has been at the forefront of various health policy innovations, from payment reforms to telehealth. Medicare Drug price negotiation has begun thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act.

Economic Impact: The introduction and expansion of Medicare influenced the medical profession, hospital expansions, the pharmaceutical industry, and other health-related sectors, leading to job creation and economic growth.

Improved Mental and Physical Health: Studies have shown that the establishment of Medicare was associated with improvements in the self-reported physical and mental health of older adults.

Summary

Medicare has played a crucial role in reshaping healthcare for seniors, providing them with improved access to medical services, financial protection, and better health outcomes. It’s evolved over time in response to various challenges and the changing needs of its beneficiaries. We look forward to seeing what Medicare does in the future.

It is why we recommend our clients check in at least once a year to see if any updates can benefit them. The Medicare Annual Enrollment period runs from October 15th through December 7th of each year.

Medicare part A, Part B, Part C and Part D

Topics: Health Insurance, Medicare, Wenatchee Insurance, Enrollment Center, Healthplanfinder, Affordable Care Act, ACA, Obamacare, Prescription Drugs, Medicare Advantage Plan, Medigap, Health Alliance, Wenatchee, Washington State, Chelan,

What does event insurance cover?

Event insurance is important for several reasons, providing protection and peace of mind for both event organizers and attendees. Here are some of the primary reasons why event insurance is considered crucial:

  1. Protection Against Financial Loss: Organizing an event often involves significant costs such as venue rental, equipment hire, catering, entertainment, and advertising. If the event is canceled or interrupted due to unforeseen circumstances, event insurance can cover the non-refundable expenses and financial losses incurred.
  2. Liability Coverage: Accidents can happen at any event, whether it’s someone slipping on a wet floor, food poisoning from catered meals, or equipment malfunctioning. Liability insurance protects the event organizer from potential lawsuits and claims arising from bodily injuries or property damage that might occur during the event.
  3. Venue Requirement: Many venues require event organizers to have liability insurance as a condition for renting their space. This is a common request from companies renting space for events. We just have to know who has to be listed on the Certificate of Insurance.
  4. Protects Against Non-Appearance: If a key speaker, performer, or celebrity fails to attend, this could lead to significant losses, especially if ticket sales were dependent on their appearance. Certain insurance policies can cover losses in these situations.
  5. Coverage for Vendors: If a vendor fails to deliver, goes out of business, or does not meet contractual obligations, the event organizer could face additional unexpected costs. Insurance can provide compensation in these situations.
  6. Property Damage: Insurance can cover damage to or theft of property rented or owned by the event organizer, such as audio-visual equipment, tents, or decorations.
  7. Liquor Liability: If alcohol is served at an event, liquor liability insurance protects the event organizer if attendees cause harm or damage after consuming alcohol provided at the event.
  8. Tailored Coverage: Event insurance can be tailored to the specific needs of an event. Whether it’s a small party, a corporate seminar, a large festival, or a wedding, policies can be adjusted to suit the particular risks and scale of the event.

In essence, while no one wants to think about the things that could go wrong during an event, it’s prudent to be prepared. Event insurance offers that layer of protection and ensures that unforeseen circumstances do not lead to crippling financial losses.

Topics: Event Insurance, Liability, Vendors, Liquor Liability, Property Damage, Host, Food Poisoning, Chelan, Host, Wenatchee Insurance, Cashmere, Mercantile, New Years Party, Christmas

How much does Medicare Cost

Senior Citizen enjoying being covered by Medicare

Yes, there is a misbelief out there that Medicare is free.  A couple of times a month a person will exclaim, ‘I thought Medicare was free.’  This is a Mandela effect as a large segment of the population recalls something different than what has occurred.

Medicare, the United States Federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant, sometimes called ESRD), was signed into law on July 30, 1965, by President Lyndon B. Johnson.

From its inception, Medicare was divided into two main parts:

Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care. For most beneficiaries, there is no premium for Part A because they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working in the U.S. However, there is a deductible and copayments for some services.

Medicare Part B covers certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. There is a monthly premium for Part B, which has been adjusted over the years. Beneficiaries also pay a deductible and coinsurance for many Part B services.

From the very beginning, beneficiaries of Medicare Part B have been charged premiums. Over the years, additional parts of Medicare, like Part C (Medicare Advantage) and Part D (prescription drug coverage), have been added, each with its own cost structure. So, while some parts of Medicare have free premiums based on previous tax contributions, there have always been charges associated with various components of the Medicare program since its introduction.

It is always good to consult your local independent agent, to see what cost is associated with Medicare. There are coverages that if you miss enrollment then you can accrue a permanent penalty.

Medicare from in person assistors is a different experience than online.

Topics: Health Insurance, Medicare, Wenatchee Insurance, Enrollment Center, Healthplanfinder, Affordable Care Act, ACA, Obamacare, Prescription Drugs, Medicare Advantage Plan, Medigap, Health Alliance, Wenatchee, Washington State

What does a health insurance plan cover in Washington State?

Wenatchee Insurance is an inclusive insurance agency

We get a lot of questions from non-professionals seeking what their plan covers. Questions are great as prior to the Affordable Care Act Health Insurance there were a ton of problems from unjustified rate hikes, lifetime limits, and infamously pre-existing conditions. The ACA standardized health insurance.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires health insurance plans to cover 10 essential health benefits:

  1. Ambulatory Services: Outpatient care without hospital admission.
  2. Emergency Services: Care in emergency rooms.
  3. Hospitalization: Surgeries and overnight hospital stays.
  4. Maternity & Newborn Care: Care before, during, and after childbirth.
  5. Mental Health & Substance Use: Counseling and substance abuse treatments.
  6. Prescription Drugs: Medications.
  7. Rehab & Habilitation Services: Recovery therapies for injuries or conditions.
  8. Lab Services: Tests to diagnose/treat illnesses.
  9. Prevention & Wellness: Vaccinations, screenings, and chronic disease management.
  10. Pediatric Services: Dental and vision care for children.

These are the core services health plans need to cover under the ACA. A health plan will have elements of these covered to various degrees. It is important for whoever you get your plan from to walk you through the coverages.

The annual open enrollment period runs from November 1st through December 15th. Some states that run a state exchange like Washington can make a decision on extending enrollment periods. If you don’t have insurance set an appointment or call immediately so that we can see if there are any special enrollments that would speed your start date.

We have been providing this service since the Washington Healthplanfinder Opened on October 1, 2013. We have been part of the Enrollment Center located in Wenatchee and serve the entire state. If you ever have a question about a plan do not hesitate to talk to Wenatchee Insurance or Suzie Health Solutions.

We make quotes easy

Topics: Health Insurance, Medicare, Wenatchee Insurance, Enrollment Center, Healthplanfinder, Affordable Care Act, ACA, Obamacare, Prescription Drugs, Emergency Room, Wenatchee, Washington State

What happens with insurance when I get in an accident with a deer in my truck?

Since the mid-1970s, Washington State DOT has removed a minimum of 5000 collisions with deer and 200 with elk every year. We have several areas in North Central Washington where wildlife collisions are frequent. Around Wenatchee, we have an abundance of Mule deer to the north and south of the city. Along the Methow and Okanogan River Valleys also have large impact numbers. We need to have a conversation about deer accidents.

When an insurance policy covers a deer accident (or any other accident involving a collision with an animal), it’s typically under the “comprehensive” coverage portion of an auto insurance policy. Here’s a breakdown of how insurance might cover a deer accident:

Comprehensive Coverage:

Description: This covers damage to your vehicle that isn’t caused by a collision with another car. This includes theft, vandalism, natural disasters, falling objects, and, relevantly, collisions with animals like deer.

Deer Accident: If you hit a deer and have comprehensive coverage, the damage to your vehicle would typically be covered. You would be responsible for paying your deductible first, and then the insurance company would cover the remaining repair costs up to the value of the vehicle.

Liability Coverage:

Description: Liability insurance covers bodily injury and property damage that you cause to others. It doesn’t cover your own injuries or vehicle damage.

Deer Accident: This wouldn’t come into play if you only hit a deer. But, if hitting the deer caused you to then collide with another vehicle, your liability coverage might cover the damages or injuries you caused to other parties.

Collision Coverage:

Description: This covers damage to your vehicle when it collides with another vehicle or object.

Deer Accident: Generally, collisions with animals are covered under comprehensive, not collision. But if, for example, you swerved to avoid a deer and hit a tree or another car, then collision coverage would come into play for damages to your vehicle.

Medical Payments (MedPay) or Personal Injury Protection (PIP):

Description: These are optional coverages in many states that can cover medical bills for you and your passengers regardless of who’s at fault. This is a good to have coverage.

Deer Accident: If you or a passenger were injured in the accident with the deer, MedPay or PIP could potentially cover medical expenses.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage:

Description: This covers your injuries or property damage if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance.

Deer Accident: This coverage wouldn’t apply to a deer accident unless you were somehow involved in an additional accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist immediately afterward. Deer are animals and do not have liability insurance.

Important Notes:

The specific details of coverage can vary based on your insurance company, your policy, and local regulations.

If you live in an area with a high deer population or frequently travel through such areas, it’s wise to ensure you have comprehensive coverage to protect against potential deer collisions.

After a deer accident, it’s important to document the scene, report the accident to the police (if required), and contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

Remember to always check your specific policy details or consult with your insurance agent to understand exactly what’s covered.

Topics: auto insurance, home insurance, independent insurance broker, deductible, Wenatchee Insurance, Okanogan, Methow Valley, Deer, Chelan County, Douglas County, liability, property

Bonus:

If you need a song. The following is done to 9 to 5 written by Dolly Parton.

 (Verse 1)

Woke up with the rooster, at the break of dawn,

Coffee brewin’, new day spawnin’, put my work boots on,

Drivin’ down the gravel path, radio playin’ tunes,

But what I didn’t see comin’ changed my plans real soon.

(Chorus)

From 9 to 5, I’m workin’, breakin’ my back,

But that deer in the middle, gave my truck a big ol’ smack,

Insurance on my mind, with each hour of the grind,

Oh, from 9 to 5, life can sure be unkind.

(Verse 2)

Pulled over to the side, under that mornin’ sun,

Thought of all the paperwork, oh man, ain’t this fun?

Checked my glove box quickly, for that policy of mine,

Sure hope comprehensive’s got me covered this time.

(Bridge)

Tumblin’ through the hours, on that ol’ office chair,

Thoughts of my truck, and that deer, oh life ain’t fair,

But with the right coverage, and a little bit of grace,

I’ll get through this day, at this relentless pace.

(Chorus)

From 9 to 5, it’s hustle, and life’s little dives,

Dealing with the unexpected, like deer jumps and archives,

But I’ll clock out with a smile, and a story to share,

Oh, from 9 to 5, gotta handle life with care.

(Verse 3)

Lunchtime in the break room, shared my tale with Sue,

She laughed and said, “Honey, same thing happened to Lou!”

Seems like we’re all in this, this 9 to 5 bind,

Dealin’ with the day-to-day, and what we might find.

(Outro)

So when the day’s endin’, and I’m headin’ to my door,

I’ll count my blessings, think of what’s in store,

From 9 to 5, or whatever hours we strive,

With a little bit of rhythm, we’ll keep that hope alive.

If you might be sick then let’s do a phone or video appointment

We have been dealing with COVID for a couple of years. From Masks to working through the first of the Covid Pandemic, and even mandates. It looks like the 2024 Enrollment Season will be no different this year.

The Annual Enrollment Period for Medicare runs from October 15th through December 7th. We have hundreds of people that enroll, get educated or change their Medicare Plan.

The Open Enrollment Period for Healthcare runs from November 1st through January 15th. We have hundreds of people that enroll, get educated or change their Healthcare Plan. We were one of the Enrollment Centers for the Washington Healthplanfinder so we have a large impact in the area.

We see folks with various degrees of health. We want them to live long and prosperous lives. Currently Washington state is tracking three respiratory illnesses including COVID, If you suspect that you have an illness then let us work over the phone or with a video chat.

Tests and Masks cost money

We are a small business. When we are exposed:

  1. We have to wear a mask immediately and continue precautions for 10 days.
  2. On Day 6 we test and test a couple more times and if nothing shows up we can end our masks.

We are stocking KN95 Masks in our office. You want a N95 or KN95 level mask. They run $19 per 50 and if you see us wearing them then we are in the middle of our testing cycle as we have been exposed.

Where to find a COVID test near your location. You can also have tests mailed to your location which is helpful for Okanogan County.

They are next to the Hand Sanitizer station located by the front door.

Tested positive and have or had symptoms.

The Washington State Department of Health has a great calculator page on what you should do.

Vaccines

Yes, we did our round of vaccines prior to Annual Enrollment Period to minimize our downtime. The CDC put out their recommendation in September and we wanted maximum protection. You can find a vaccine near you at Vaccinate WA.

The Cost

If we are sick and lose our ability to work for two weeks then we can not see at least 86 families. Yes, our appointment spaces fill up and we work seven days a week taking care of people. Not only does that take away our household income for the year, it has the potential of taking away health insurance for families for the year.

Topics: Enrollment Center, Chelan County, Okanogan County, Suzy Health Solutions, M95 Mask, Wenatchee Insurance, COVID, RSV, phone appointment,

Health Insurance FAQs

Health insurance is a vital type of insurance. Without health insurance, you might not get the health care that you need. Finding the right health insurance can be difficult and having an insurance agent you trust can help. In Wenatchee, WA, our team at Wenatchee Insurance Agency is dedicated to helping get rid of the confusion surrounding health insurance and making sure all of our clients have the right coverage. 

What is an HMO?

HMO stands for Health Maintenance Organization, and it is the most restrictive type of managed care. With an HMO you usually cannot go outside the network for treatment except in the case of an extreme emergency. You must have a primary care physician who is responsible for your care and providing referrals if you need to go to a specialist. It is also usually the most affordable type of managed care. 

Should I get a high deductible policy?

Affordability is the most common reason for choosing a high deductible policy. It may also allows you to have an HSA  (healthcare savings account) which is exempt from tax in order to put aside money to pay for covered medical expenses. 

How do I make sure my doctor takes the health insurance?

The first option is to check the list of doctors who are in the plan network but if this isn’t helping you, call your doctor’s office, they should be able to help. 

Are my prescriptions covered? 

Every plan has a formulary which is a list of covered medications. They are listed in tiers; some tiers may be free, and others may have a copay and/or a deductible. You should be able to find this on the carrier website. 

Schedule A Consultation Today

Contact Wenatchee Insurance Agency in Wenatchee, WA when you need help with your health insurance needs. We are here to answer your call. 

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Suzie Health Solutions

Health & Medicare

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.

We work with all ages and charge no fees.

Health & Medicare

Partner Carriers

  • Allstate
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  • Molina Healthcare
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  • The Hartford
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  • Travelers
  • Wellcare
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