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413 N Mission St
Wenatchee, WA 98801

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When are Health and Medicare Enrollment Periods?

Posted on by Matt McColm

For over a decade, there have been Enrollment periods for Health Insurance. It doesn’t matter if it is a group plan or an individual plan. The following is for Individual plans.

When?

Medicare Annual Enrollment Period starts October 15th 2024 and ends December 7th 2024.

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Health Insurance Open Enrollment ( WA State) starts November 1st 2024 and ends January 15th 2025.

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It is not a problem to set appointments or reminders early. Select one using our Calendar and it will even send you a reminder text and email.

Why do Enrollment Periods exist:

Enrollment periods for health insurance exist for a few reasons:

Planning: Insurance companies need to plan and budget for the coverage they provide. Enrollment periods help them estimate how many people they will need to cover, so they can allocate resources properly.

Fairness: Enrollment periods prevent people from signing up for insurance only when they need medical care. This helps ensure a balance in the risk pool and prevents costs from skyrocketing. We have requests throughout the year that are forced to wait until the following year because they delayed enrollment or let their coverage lapse.

Essential Oils make you feel better

Stability: Insurance markets need a stable pool of enrollees to spread the costs. Enrollment periods help avoid sudden changes in the insured population, which could lead to financial problems for insurers and higher premiums for everyone.

Responsibility: Enrollment periods encourage individuals to take responsibility for their insurance coverage. It ensures that people actively engage in the process and make informed decisions about their healthcare choices.

Efficiency: Enrollment periods streamline administrative processes for insurance companies and healthcare providers. They make it easier to handle applications, verify eligibility, and manage enrollment-related tasks. The Wenatchee Enrollment Center runs seven days a week to accommodate local needs.

Additional insurance info:

Remember that enrollment periods can vary depending on the type of insurance and certain life events may qualify for special enrollment periods outside of the standard ones. If you don’t have insurance, then we want to run the application to catch if you qualify for a special enrollment.

Programs such as Apple Health and Native American Health have year-round enrollments.

Medicare has it’s own rules three months before you turn 65 and three months after. This blog goes into the details as we have a lot of people scheduling early to talk with Suzie.

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Topics: Enrollment Period, Health Insurance, Medicare, Annual Enrollment Period, Open Enrollment, Enrollment Center, Special Enrollment, Healthplanfinder, Suzie Health, Wenatchee Insurance, Quincy, Apple Health, Molina, Premera, Community Health, Tax Credits

Where can I get a car insurance quote?

Posted on by Matt McColm

People are shopping their car insurance in large numbers.

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Wenatchee Insurance Agency offers several advantages for quoting car insurance. These advantages include:

  1. Choice and Access to Multiple Insurance Companies: As an independent insurance agency, Wenatchee Insurance Agency works with multiple insurance companies. This allows us to offer quotes from multiple providers, giving customers access to a wider range of options. Customers can compare coverage and prices more easily without having to enter their information to multiple corporations.
  2. Personalized Service: Independent insurance agents, like those at Wenatchee Insurance, provide more personalized service in a non-corporate manner. We are part of Eastern Washington and offer a neighborly approach to insurance. Customers can expect a more personal touch when interacting with the agency.
  3. Flexibility and Customization: Independent insurance agencies have the flexibility to tailor insurance policies to meet the unique needs of customers. They can offer a variety of coverage options, deductibles, and policy limits, allowing customers to customize their car insurance based on their preferences. Sometimes you need car insurance and on other occasions you will have home and health insurance questions. Wenatchee Insurance understands that not everyone fits into a standard policy and aims to provide customized solutions.
  4. Long-Term Relationship: Wenatchee Insurance focuses on building long-term relationships with our clients. We aim to be the insurance agency of choice for our clients for the next 50 years. This means we prioritize the client’s needs beyond a single sale and strive to provide the best practices and services for years to come.
  5. Competitive Pricing: Contrary to popular belief, independent insurance agencies like Wenatchee Insurance can often offer competitive pricing. They have the advantage of shopping around on behalf of the customer and leveraging their relationships with multiple insurance companies to find the best rates available. This allows customers to secure affordable coverage without compromising on quality.
Claim conversations before they happen

It’s important to note that the specific advantages may vary depending on the independent insurance agency and the insurers they work with. Wenatchee Insurance Agency was built in response to customer requests for home and car insurance to Suzie and Matt.

Do you have any additional questions or is there anything else you would like to know about Wenatchee Insurance Agency?

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Topics: Wenatchee Insurance, Insurance Quote, Car Insurance, Auto Insurance, Wenatchee, Chelan, Health Insurance, Home Insurance, Okanogan, Douglas County, Independent Insurance Agency, Insurance Shopping

How do I get insurance for my Restaurant in Washington State?

Posted on by Matt McColm

Wenatchee has been a Foodie destination for years. Wenatchee Insurance loves insuring restaurants new and old.  

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A restaurant typically needs the following types of insurance:

General Liability Insurance: Covers accidents and injuries on the premises

Property Insurance: Protects against damage or loss to the building and assets.

Liquor Liability Insurance: Necessary if the restaurant serves alcohol. The fast rule is the higher of percentage of alcohol over food then the more expensive the insurance.

Business Interruption Insurance: Covers income loss during temporary closures. (This was a big miss for some that dropped this coverage prior to COVID shutdowns to save money).

Commercial Auto Insurance: For restaurant-owned vehicles. If you are making deliveries or have a logo then have the conversation about commercial auto insurance with your agent.

Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI): Protects against employment-related claims.

Specials:

Wenatchee Insurance does insurance for restaurants and businesses.

Many of the needed coverages can be found bundled together in a Business Owners’ Policy or BOP.

If you are new to Washington State or are starting a business. Washington State has programs regarding Worker’s Compensation, Long Term Care, and Family Medical Leave. With the individual health insurance marketplace being strong many small employers use the Washington Healthplanfinder for insurance by adding an allowance to payroll and having a local Enrollment Center walk through the plans.  

At Wenatchee Insurance Agency, we are an independent broker and customize coverage based on your restaurant’s needs and local regulations.

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Topic: Wenatchee Insurance, Business Insurance, Restaurant Insurance, Liquor Liability, Healthplanfinder, Wenatchee, Foodie, General Liability, Chelan, Okanogan, Douglas

Does my home insurance policy cover fireworks?

Posted on by Matt McColm

Central Washington Dangers

With the fire dangers high in Central Washington, local governments have been banning the sale and use of fireworks in favor of Community displays. In Wenatchee Valley, there is a great display visible from Walla Walla Point Park, every year.

The coverage for fireworks damage can vary depending on the specific terms and conditions of the insurance policy. However, I can provide you with a general overview of how an insurance policy might cover fireworks damage.

If you don’t have a policy then let us know and we will be glad to assist as an independent insurance agency.

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Types of Insurance:

Homeowner’s Insurance: If you have a homeowner’s insurance policy, it may provide coverage for fireworks damage to your property. Typically, this coverage falls under the “perils” section of the policy, which includes fire, explosions, and certain types of accidental damage. If your property is damaged due to a fire caused by fireworks, you may be eligible to file a claim and receive compensation for the repairs or replacement of the damaged items.

Fire works above burning house

Personal Property Coverage: Homeowner’s insurance policies often include personal property coverage, which protects your belongings from various risks, including fire damage. If your personal belongings, such as furniture, electronics, or other items, are damaged by fireworks, you may be able to file a claim to receive compensation for their repair or replacement.

Liability Coverage: Another aspect of insurance coverage to consider is liability protection. If you accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property with fireworks, your liability coverage may help cover the costs of repairs or replacement. For example, if a firework ignites a neighbor’s house and burns the garage down, your insurance could cover the expenses.

Additional Home Insurance Info:

The average Home value in Wenatchee is over $500K so if you went cheap or started a large fire then your liability may not be enough. Fireworks cause a majority of problems around the 4th of July.

Some policies may completely exclude fireworks-related incidents, while others may have specific restrictions on the types of fireworks covered or the circumstances under which they’re covered. Always go over coverage with your insurance agent.

Always follow local laws and regulations when handling fireworks and use them responsibly to minimize the risk of accidents and potential damage. Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that intentionally caused damage or illegal use of fireworks may not be covered by insurance policies.

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Topics: Fireworks, Independent Insurance Agency, 4th of July, Wenatchee Insurance, Bundle, Wenatchee, Deductible, Chelan County, Douglas County, Okanogan, Liability

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How can I lower the cost of my manufactured home?

Posted on by Matt McColm
Manufactured homes have been around for a while.

Yes, we have come a long way from calling them trailer parks, and mobile homes. Manufactured Homes are just about everywhere in Central Washington. However, they are not insured the same way as a stick built. Not every insurance company will insure them.

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As your local independent insurance agency, Wenatchee Insurance Agency has multiple companies that cover manufactured homes. consider the following tips:

Bundle your policies: If you have other insurance policies, such as auto or life insurance, consider bundling them with your manufactured home insurance. Many insurance companies offer discounts for bundling multiple policies together.

Update your insurance coverage periodically: Regularly review your insurance coverage to ensure it accurately reflects the value and condition of your manufactured home. At the very minimum shop and adjust every four years. Every time that I vote for President, I shop my insurance to avoid inflation creep.

Increase your deductible: The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. By opting for a higher deductible, you can lower your insurance premium. Just make sure you choose a deductible amount that you can comfortably afford in case you need to make a claim.

Improve home security: Enhancing the security of your manufactured home can reduce the risk of theft or damage, which may qualify you for lower insurance premiums. Install security systems, smoke detectors, and deadbolt locks.

Maintain a good credit score: Insurance companies often consider your credit score when determining premiums.

Trailer overlooking mountains with porch.

Inquire about discounts: Ask Wenatchee Insurance about any discounts they offer specifically for manufactured homes. They may have discounts for certain safety features, early shopping discounts, or other factors.

Remember to read the policy carefully and ask questions to ensure you understand the coverage provided. It’s essential to strike a balance between cost savings and adequate coverage to protect your manufactured home.

With fire season heating up fast this year, we want to make sure that all of our neighbors are adequately covered.

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Topics: Manufactured Home, Mobile Home, Independent Insurance Agency, Wenatchee Insurance, Bundle, Deductible, Chelan County, Douglas County, Okanogan,

When can I enroll in Medicare?

Posted on by Matt McColm
Turning 65 then we can help with Medicare
You can enroll in Medicare before your 65th Birthday.

Suzie McColm has been assisting people to enroll in health insurance and Medicare for over a decade. If you are local in the Wenatchee Valley, then you might have even seen her during her Safeway or Shopko days as a Pharmacy Technician. She is a licensed insurance producer in the state of Washington.

appointment with Suzie

The top question that she gets is when can I enroll in Medicare?

To enroll in Medicare, including the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), here is what you need to know:

The initial enrollment period for Medicare typically starts three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months after your birthday month. This seven-month period is called the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). During the IEP, you can enroll in Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance).

For example: if your Birthday was July 4, 2023 then you could start enrolling with your IEP starting in April and have Medicare coverage starting July 1st. You would have until all the way until the end of October for your Initial Enrollment Period.

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), also known as the Fall Open Enrollment Period, occurs every year from October 15th to December 7th. During this period, you can make changes to your Medicare coverage. Set an appointment early if you would like assistance.

Here are some actions you can take during the AEP:

  1. Switch from Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) to a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C).
  2. Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare.
  3. Change from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another.
  4. Join, drop, or switch Medicare Part D prescription drug plans.

It’s important to note that the AEP is primarily for making changes to Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plans. If you are satisfied with your current Medicare coverage and don’t need to make any changes, you don’t have to do anything during the AEP.

appointment with Suzie

Remember we answer questions year-round about Medicare and Healthcare. The state of Washington does not contract with us regarding SEBB or PEBB options for those questions please go directly to the Health Care Authority.  

Topics: Suzie Health Solutions, Medicare, Chelan County, Health Insurance, Wenatchee Insurance, Enrollment Period, Wenatchee Medicare Insurance, Pharmacy, Enrollment Center, PEBB, SEBB

With my business logo on my car do I need a commercial auto policy?

Posted on by Matt McColm
Flower delivery for work

As an insurance agent at Wenatchee Insurance Agency in Wenatchee, Washington, I would advise you on the need for a commercial auto policy if you had your logo on your car. We look for policies that when a customer needs them, they will be available to make a claim.

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If you have your logo displayed on your car, it indicates that you are using the vehicle for business purposes. In such cases, it is generally recommended to have a commercial auto insurance policy. Personal auto insurance policies usually exclude coverage for vehicles used for business activities.

Insurance companies are looking to deny claims. A few years ago, I had a friend that was delivering flowers for their company. They hit some ice and wrecked the car. Since it was written for personal use the insurance company denied the claim. A proper policy and the insurance company would have been required to pay and my friend would still have their flower shop.

Here’s why you should consider a commercial auto policy:

Proper Coverage: A commercial auto policy is specifically designed to protect vehicles used for business purposes. It provides coverage that may not be included in a personal auto insurance policy.

Liability Protection: Commercial auto insurance offers higher liability coverage limits to safeguard your business in case of an accident where you or your employees are at fault. This coverage protects against potential lawsuits and claims for bodily injury or property damage caused to others.

Business Assets: Commercial auto insurance can help protect your business assets by providing coverage for damages to your vehicle(s) used for business. It helps you recover the costs of repairs or replacement, minimizing the financial impact on your business.

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While personal auto insurance policies may provide coverage for vehicles used occasionally for business purposes, having a dedicated commercial auto policy ensures that you have appropriate coverage tailored to your business needs.

woman delivering pizzas with her car holding clipboard

If you are delivering pizzas or doing Ride Shares from your car then you really need to let your insurance agent know. Please keep in mind that insurance requirements and policy details may vary based on your specific location and circumstances. It’s always a good idea to consult with a licensed insurance agent at Wenatchee Insurance Agency. We can provide personalized guidance based on your unique situation and help you choose the right insurance policy to protect your business.

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Topics, Wenatchee Insurance, Auto Insurance, Car Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Pizza Delivery, Ride Share, Flower delivery, Chelan County, Douglas County, Independent insurance agency

Renters’ insurance is cheap protection.

Posted on by Matt McColm
Young woman getting insurance in Central Washington

We rent an apartment in Wenatchee. We have all the normal stuff, cars, clothes, pots and pans and if we have a fire then we don’t have to worry. We have renters’ insurance because it is cheap in addition to giving me a discount on my car insurance. I wouldn’t dream of going without coverage.

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Renters’ insurance is important for several reasons, as it provides crucial coverage and financial protection for tenants. Seriously, your landlord’s policy won’t cover your flatscreen let alone your jeans. Here are four key reasons why renters’ insurance is important:

1.           Personal Property Coverage: Renters insurance protects your personal belongings from loss or damage due to covered events such as fire, theft, vandalism, or certain natural disasters. It helps replace or repair your possessions, including furniture, electronics, clothing, appliances, and other valuable items. Do I want an insurance company to replace my stuff, or do I want to fool around with running a GoFundMe or other crowdsource campaign?

2.           Liability Protection: Accidents can happen anywhere, including your rented home. Renters’ insurance typically includes liability coverage, which protects you if you accidentally cause property damage or bodily injury to someone else. If a guest is injured on your rented property and holds you responsible, renters’ insurance can help cover legal expenses and potential damages awarded in a lawsuit.

3.           Additional Living Expenses: In case your rented home becomes temporarily uninhabitable due to a covered event, such as a fire or natural disaster, renters’ insurance can help cover additional living expenses. It may include the cost of hotel stays, meals, and other necessary expenses while your home is being repaired or rebuilt. When they put out your apartment fire and you are wrapped in a Red Cross blanket, who do you want to pay for the hotel room, to figure out what comes next?

4.           Peace of Mind: Renters’ insurance provides peace of mind by offering financial protection and reducing uncertainty. Knowing that your personal belongings are insured and that you have liability coverage can alleviate worries and allow you to focus on enjoying your living space. In the event of an unexpected incident, renters’ insurance provides a safety net, helping you recover and rebuild without significant financial strain.

Specific coverage and policy details can vary among different insurance providers, so it’s important to review the terms and conditions of any renters insurance policy you consider to ensure it meets your needs with your agent.

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3 Benefits of Bundling Home and Auto Insurance

Posted on by admin
Insurance Bundle

Many people purchase their auto insurance and home insurance separately. This is often simply because they may not be a homeowner when they purchase vehicle insurance. The car often comes first, and then later on, the home purchase. At that time, it’s worth revisiting the insurance plan and having them with the same company. Wenatchee Insurance Agency, serving North Central Washington, offers the ability to bundle your home and auto insurance.

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Here are three of the many benefits of doing this:

1. Simplicity

Life is complicated enough, and it’s helpful to make things simple whenever possible. When you bundle your home and auto insurance, you can keep all your insurance files and information in one place. Also, you will be working with one insurance agent instead of two. Your one insurance agent will be able to help you with both your home and auto insurance questions, changes, claims, etc.

2. Better Understanding of the Company

Every insurance company has its own procedures. Rather than you having to keep track of how two different insurance companies operate, bundle your home and car insurance so you only need to be familiar with one company’s policies.

3. Easier Payments

When you have two separate insurance companies, you have to make two insurance premium payments separately. This will entail the necessity of logging into two websites and managing bill payments for two separate calendar dates. When you bundle your home and car insurance, you may have only one payment to make that covers both your home and vehicle. And even if they are separate payments, you only have to deal with one company for both policy payments.

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There are even more benefits to bundling your various insurance policies. Contact Wenatchee Insurance Agency, exclusive to Washington state to learn more about how to bundle your home and car insurance.

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What about insurance for my business?

Posted on by Matt McColm
Chef in Restaurant covered with Wenatchee Insurance
Wenatchee Insurance has your back

Congratulations, you have taken the leap and started a business. Did you remember your insurance?
Your situation changes the moment that money changes hands. You get a business license immediately so that you can cover taxes and connect with an insurance policy.

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Without special endorsements, your home or renters’ policy will exclude losses of business equipment. If you have customers visit your home, then you are looking at increased exposures that your insurance company needs to know about.

Useful types of business insurance policies


If you are making a delivery and your car insurance is only set up for personal use, then yes the insurance company can deny a claim. Commercial auto policies cover a wide range of exposures.

If you are doing a pop-up, maker’s market, or another short-term store front then an event or vender’s insurance policy will cover needed liability risks and can provide you with a Certificate of Insurance for the landlord/organizing community.
If you a contractor then you want to look at a builder’s risk policy for your job site. Without insurance, a loss can be catastrophic financially.

If digital information is important to your business such as credit card information or customers’ personal data then cyber coverage quickly becomes important.

A business insurance policy is a top priority for a business owner as it protects their business and, in some cases, their personal assets.

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It’s important to note that the specific insurance needs for your business may vary depending on factors such as your industry, size, location, and specific risks involved. Consulting with an insurance professional or broker can help you determine the most appropriate coverage options tailored to your business needs. Wenatchee Insurance writes most of our policies in Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan. We also write for the rest of Washington State as requested.

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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.

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