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Wenatchee, WA 98801

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What Risks for home owners insurance should I be aware?

Posted on by Matt McColm

Surviving the Wild, Wild (North Central) Washington

Let’s face it, living in North Central Washington can sometimes feel like you’re starring in our own reality TV survival show. With Wenatchee Insurance by your side, you’ll be prepared for all the unique risks our beautiful home has to offer.

We have some of the greatest parts of the country. Whether it is hiking the Enchantments, to boating Lake Chelan, fishing the Potholes, or horseback riding up in Okanogan. There is plenty of adventure to be had in NCW.

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Wildfires: Nature’s Unwanted BBQ You might love a good barbecue, but not when it’s your backyard going up in smoke. Wildfires are a real threat, and you’ll want coverage that doesn’t leave you feeling burnt. This is something that you can not cover up with a bottled sauce.

Flooding: Surprise Water Parks Nothing like waking up to find your living room has turned into an indoor pool. Flooding can strike unexpectedly, so ask Wenatchee Insurance about flood coverage to keep your home from becoming an aquatic adventure park. In town, we are seeing sinkholes, so it is worth the ask.

Earthquakes: The Unscheduled Dance Party When the ground starts to shake, it’s not time for a dance party. While it won’t be the Big One like they predict for the Coast, we do feel them. Earthquake insurance can help you pick up the pieces (literally) after an unexpected rumble.

Windstorms: Nature’s Extreme Blow Dry Hold onto your hats, folks! Windstorms can be powerful enough to turn your patio furniture into dangerous projectiles. Yes, we have had 100 mph winds. Make sure your home can withstand these gusty invaders with the right coverage.

Risk Summary:

With Wenatchee Insurance, you’ll be equipped to handle all the wild adventures that North Central Washington throws your way. Wildfires, Flooding, Earthquakes and Windstorms! Oh my. Stay insured and stay safe!

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Topic: Home Insurance, Wenatchee Insurance, Wind Coverage, Wildfire, North Central Washington, Lake Chelan, Okanogan, Liability, Deductible,

Who is eligible for Medicare and what is it?

Posted on by Matt McColm
original medicare, medicare advantage and part d

Hello, wonderful readers of Wenatchee Insurance’s Medicare blog! Today, we’re tackling a question that buzzes around like a rogue mosquito at a cook out: “What is Medicare, and who is eligible?” If Medicare were a party, who’s on the guest list? Let’s get to it!

Medicare: The Party Planner for Your Health

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that throws open its doors primarily to those aged 65 and older. Think of it as an exclusive club for seasoned citizens! But wait, there’s more – younger folks with certain disabilities or those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) also get a VIP pass.

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How Do I Get on the List?

To be eligible for Medicare, you generally need to be:

65 or older: Congratulations! You’ve reached the golden age and earned your ticket to the Medicare party.

Under 65 with a disability: If you’ve been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months, Medicare raises the velvet rope and  says, “Come on in!”

Any age with ESRD: If you’re dealing with permanent kidney failure and need dialysis or a transplant, Medicare rolls out the red carpet.

Example Time!

Imagine dear old Aunt Martha. She’s just turned 65, loves knitting, and dancing at family weddings. She’s eligible for Medicare because of her age. Now, let’s talk about Cousin Bob. He’s only 45 but has been on SSDI for over two years due to a serious accident. Medicare welcomes him with open arms too!

The ABCs and Ds of Medicare

Medicare has two parts, and then some additional toppings:

Original Medicare

Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, and some home health care. It’s like the comfy bed you get to rest in.

Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services. Think of it as your day-to-day health care needs.

Medicare Toppings

Part C (Medicare Advantage): These are plans offered by private companies that include Part A and B, and often Part D, plus extra benefits. It’s like getting a combo meal with a little extra sauce.

Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs. Because nobody likes an unexpected bill for their medications!

health or medicare enrollment suzie makes it easier

How Do I Sign Up?

Signing up for original Medicare is as easy as pie, and Wenatchee Insurance is here to guide you every step of the way! You can enroll:

If you have questions and want to look at toppings, then you want to ask Suzie.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re as spry as Aunt Martha or managing health issues like Cousin Bob, Medicare is designed to help. At Wenatchee Insurance, we’re your trusted advisors, ready to answer all your questions and make the process as smooth as the chicken dance at a wedding. Stay tuned for more Medicare tips and tricks!

Remember, folks, navigating Medicare doesn’t have to be like figuring out Aunt Martha’s Blue Ribbon Cherry Pie recipe. With Wenatchee Insurance by your side, you’ll be saying, “Medicare? Nailed it!” in no time.

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Topics: Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Suzie, Wenatchee Insurance, SSDI, ESRD, Hospital Insurance, Prescription Drug Coverage, Part D, Medical Insurance,

assistance in understanding and enrolling with Medicare with Suzie

Saving on Medicare Costs with Suzie and Wenatchee Insurance

Posted on by Matt McColm

Mary was living on a fixed income and was worried about rising Medical costs despite having Medicare. She had heard about Medicare Savings Programs but wasn’t sure if she qualified or how to apply. Mary turned to Suzie at Wenatchee Insurance for guidance.

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What are Medicare Savings Programs?

Medicare Savings Programs help pay for Medicare Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments for individuals with limited income and resources. Programs like the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) and Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) are designed to offer financial relief.

Mary’s Journey

At Wenatchee Insurance, Mary met with an Suzie who explained the eligibility criteria for these programs. Together, they reviewed her income and resources, and the agent helped her complete the necessary applications.

Achieving Financial Relief

Mary qualified for the QMB program, which helped pay for Medicare premiums and significantly reduced her out-of-pocket costs for medical services. She also received extra help with prescription drug costs, easing her financial burden.

Mary could sign up for a Medicare Savings Program (MSP) at any time during the year; there is no specific enrollment period for these programs. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Eligibility Requirements: To qualify, you must meet income and resource limits set by your state. These limits may vary, but generally, your income must be below a certain threshold, and you must have limited financial resources​.
  2. Application Process: Applications for Medicare Savings Programs are handled by your state’s Medicaid office. You can apply at any time, and your state will determine which program you qualify for based on your income and resource information​.
  3. Medicare Plan Selection: Once the Medicaid Office has processed the application, then any Medicare Plan adjustments could be made.

Thanks to Wenatchee Insurance, Mary was able to understand the complexities of Medicare Savings Programs and secure the assistance she needed.

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Medicare, Medigap, Advantage, and Prescription Plan D in Wenatchee

What Types of Coverage do I want with a Standard Home Insurance Policy?

Posted on by Matt McColm

Welcome to the Home Insurance Buffet!

getting ready to step on toys and fall down stairs
We like to talk with our clients.

Imagine walking into an all-you-can-eat buffet, but instead of food, it’s filled with different types of home insurance coverages. That’s right, folks, it’s time to feast your eyes on the delectable options that Wenatchee Insurance serves up in a standard home insurance policy.

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The Main Course: Dwelling Coverage This is the meat and potatoes of your policy, the coverage that ensures your home is protected from disasters like fires, lightning strikes, and those rare but pesky incidents involving rampaging alpacas.

The Side Dishes: Personal Property Coverage Your stuff matters too! Whether it’s your collection of rare, autographed rubber duckies or your high-tech espresso machine, personal property coverage ensures your belongings are covered. Watch out for limitations as they are like raisins in the potatoe salad and can restrict what you are claiming.

The Gravy: Liability Protection Ever had a guest slip on a banana peel in your kitchen? Liability protection has you covered for those unfortunate and highly embarrassing moments. Say goodbye to potential lawsuits from banana-related accidents! If you like parties, have a pool, or a tiger in your back yard then you want extra gravy.

The Dessert: Additional Living Expenses Imagine your house is under repair because of an unexpected waterbed explosion. Where will you live? Who will feed you? Fear not! Additional living expenses cover your hotel stays and meals while you wait for your home to be restored. We have seen homes take over a year to be rebuilt after wildfires so do not go short.

So, why wait? Dive into this home insurance buffet with Wenatchee Insurance and make sure every corner of your home and life is covered!

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What do I need to know about the 2% deductible in Washington State?

Posted on by Matt McColm

If you have a homeowner’s insurance policy from Wenatchee Insurance, it’s important to understand how your deductible works, especially when it comes to insurance claims.

Here’s what you need to know about a 2% deductible simply and funnily:

What’s a Deductible?

The deductible is the amount of money you have to pay out of your pocket before the insurance policy kicks in to cover the rest. Think of it as the entry fee to a really expensive concert where Taylor Swift is the headlining act. It is going to be expensive but it is a really big show.

Understanding the 2% Deductible

Let’s say your house is worth $300,000. With a 2% deductible, you need to pay 2% of your home’s value before the insurance company pays anything.

2% of $300,000 = $6,000

So, if a sinkhole decides to turn your living room into an underground swimming pool, you’d need to cough up $6,000 before the insurance company starts to help.

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A Funny Deductible Example

Imagine your house is a giant chocolate bar worth $300,000. If a sinkhole takes a big bite out of your chocolate bar, you’d have to pay for the first $6,000 worth of chocolate to fill the hole. Only after that will the insurance company start giving you more chocolate to patch up the rest.

Why It Matters

Knowing your deductible helps you be prepared for unexpected costs. So, if you have a 2% deductible, make sure you have some money saved up for those just-in-case moments, like when your lawn suddenly wants to become a cave.

Quick Tips

  • Save Up: Have enough savings to cover your deductible.
  • Know Your Policy: Read your policy details to understand what’s covered.
  • Stay Prepared: Keep an emergency fund for surprises like sinkholes.

Remember, Wenatchee Insurance is there to help, but you need to do your part too. Stay chocolatey and be prepared!

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Topics: Wenatchee Insurance, Deductible, Home Insurance, Sinkhole, Chocolate, Leavenworth

We love our senior insurance customers
Why be boring, life is short.

How much does Health Insurance cost in Washington State?

Posted on by Matt McColm

The cost of health insurance in Washington state varies depending on the plan tier, the insurer, the individual’s age and the household income level (if you want a subsidy to lower your cost).

Suzie and Matt have been educating and enrolling people in Health Insurance since the beginning of the Affordable Care Act and ran the Enrollment Center in Wenatchee for about six years. They have never added a fee and have added products along the way to assist our clients’ insurance needs.

Suzie Appointment

Here are important key points for 2024:

  • Average Costs by Plan Tier before subsidies:
  • Bronze Plans: Around $462 per month.
  • Silver Plans: Approximately $584 per month.
  • Gold Plans: About $641 per month​.
Suzie Mccolm health and Medicare Insurance Wenatchee
4th in state for new medical business

Cheapest Health Insurance Plans:

The cheapest Silver plan is the Community Health Plan of Washington Cascade Select Silver, costing around $394 per month​.

For Bronze plans, the most affordable option is Ambetter Essential Care 1 at $282 per month​.

Factors Influencing Costs:

Age is a significant factor. For example, a 60-year-old will pay about 85% more than a 40-year-old for the same coverage​

Location within Washington can also affect premiums due to regional cost differences​. We work throughout the state thanks to video conferencing and a phone system.  There are differences between King County  and Chelan / Douglas counties.

Premium Increases:

We went into detail in May that individual plans have put in rate increases for 2025. Thirteen insurance companies requested an average 11.3% increase. Now is your time to review and comment with the state.

Health insurance premiums have increased by around 7% from 2023 to 2024 across all plan tiers​.

appointment with Suzie

For personalized quotes, we use the Washington Healthplanfinder to compare different plans and check for eligibility for subsidies or cost-sharing reductions based on your income level​ first. There are times that we go off-exchange for availability as we want our clients to have the ability to choose.

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Toothaches are no joke, let’s find good dental insurance

Posted on by Matt McColm

Wenatchee Insurance, we work with a variety of companies to find which plan works best for the client. Some have waiting periods which is why we like to review plans with clients before they buy them.

appointment with Suzie

Dental insurance works kind of like having a quirky best friend who sometimes covers your tab and other times makes you pay your own way. Let’s break it down:

Types of Dental Insurance Plans

  1. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)
    • Description: Imagine you have a favorite pizza place, but you sometimes cheat with other pizzerias. PPOs let you see any dentist, but you save more if you stick with the plan’s favorite pizza… er, dentist.
    • Pros: More freedom to cheat on your dentist.
    • Cons: Your wallet might feel the betrayal if you go out-of-network.
  2. Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)
    • Description: This is like having a strict diet plan where you can only eat at certain places. HMOs make you stay within the network, or else!
    • Pros: Your wallet stays on a strict diet.
    • Cons: Less freedom to indulge in dental decadence.

Coverage Categories

Dental insurance likes to categorize things because, apparently, it’s very organized. Here’s the scoop:

  1. Preventive Care
    • Examples: Routine exams, cleanings, X-rays.
    • Coverage: 100% covered because who doesn’t like free stuff?
  2. Basic Procedures
    • Examples: Fillings, extractions, periodontal treatment.
    • Coverage: They’ll cover 70-80%, which means you’re still paying a bit, but hey, it’s better than footing the whole bill.
  3. Major Procedures
    • Examples: Crowns, bridges, dentures.
    • Coverage: Only 50%, because apparently major procedures are the fancy, designer shoes of the dental world.

Key Features

  1. Premiums
    • Description: The monthly or annual fee you pay just to be part of this exclusive dental club. Think of it as your ticket to the show.
  2. Deductibles
    • Description: The amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance says, “Okay, now I’ll help.” It’s like having to eat your veggies before getting dessert.
  3. Copayments and Coinsurance
    • Description: Your share of the costs for covered services. It’s like going Dutch on a date – you both chip in.
  4. Annual Maximum
    • Description: The max amount the insurance will pay in a year. Once you hit that, it’s like the insurance saying, “I’m tapped out, buddy. You’re on your own.”
  5. Waiting Periods
    • Description: The time you have to wait before certain procedures are covered. It’s like a countdown to Christmas, but less exciting.
  6. Network Restrictions
    • Description: Some plans require you to use specific dentists. It’s like only being allowed to shop at one store for all your dental goodies.
Suzie appointment

Example Dental Insurance Scenario

Let’s say you have a PPO plan with:

  • A $50 deductible (the price of admission).
  • 100/80/50 coverage (the friend who’s sometimes generous).
  • And a $1,500 annual maximum (the friend who’s great until they run out of cash).

For a routine cleaning:

  • Cost: $100
  • You pay: $0 (because preventive care is like the free bread at a restaurant).

For a filling:

  • Cost: $200
  • You pay: $40 (20% coinsurance after the deductible, like tipping the waiter).

For a crown:

  • Cost: $1,000
  • You pay: $500 (50% coinsurance, because crowns are fancy).

So, there you have it. Dental insurance is like having a sometimes generous, sometimes stingy friend who helps you out with dental bills but also makes you chip in and follow some quirky rules. Enjoy the ride, and may your teeth be ever shiny!

We can add dental insurance year round at Wenatchee Insurance.

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Protecting Your Home Against Wildfires

Posted on by admin

The weather is getting dryer and hotter. It’s great for outdoor recreation but can also set the stage for a wildfire to spread. Wildfires can be devastating if they are caused by lightning or man’s folly. It’s important to have your property insured against such disasters. There are also ways to protect your home from too much damage.

How to Protect Your Property

One sure way to keep your property safe in the event of wildfire is to clear away dead vegetation and brush. A fire can’t get to your property if there’s no fuel to get there to begin with. You can also create a fuel break using concrete and hardscape. If you have any plants on your property, keep them trimmed and watered. They’ll not only look nicer, but they’ll be more challenging to ignite. For your roof, you should use class A shingles to reduce the chances of an ember landing and causing a fire. Seal off attic vents and windows with a screen so embers don’t get in. Should the worst happen, be prepared to evacuate. Plan an escape route, fuel your car, and assemble a bug-out bag. Keep abreast of the local news so that you will know what to do and where to go.

Wenatchee Insurance Agency Serving Wenatchee, WA

Even if you take all the necessary precautions, a wildfire can still damage your home and property. Home insurance can help you recoup a good deal of your losses. If you are in the market for home insurance and are in the Wenatchee, WA area, don’t hesitate to contact Wenatchee Insurance Agency. We will do our best to help you get what you need.

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Cheapest Way to Get Full Coverage Car Insurance (With a Dash of Humor)

Posted on by Matt McColm

So, you want to get full coverage car insurance without having to sell your firstborn?  If we aren’t crying, then we are laughing. Buckle up because we’re about to take a joyride of cost-saving tips sprinkled with a bit of humor. Let’s hit the gas!

1. Shop Around Like a Bargain Hunter on Black Friday

What is the hottest Christmas toy that you can remember? Think of car insurance like that. Prices are all over the place depending on where you look. Don’t just settle for the first quote you get—channel your inner bargain hunter and shop around. We shop multiple companies to find a good fit.

Car Quote

2. Bundle Up Buttercup

Insurance companies love bundling as much as you love a BOGO pizza deal. Combining your car insurance with other policies can save you a pretty penny. We have some companies that you get a discount if we hold one other policy of any type which makes shopping easier.

3. Raise Your Deductible Like You’re Raising the Roof

The higher your deductible, the lower your premium. It’s like saying, “Don’t sweat the little stuff”. I just want you around when things get heavy. Just make sure you can afford that deductible if you ever need to file a claim. There are way too many Gofundmes out there that don’t make it.

4. Drive Like Your Grandma Is Watching

Safe driving pays off. Insurance companies love slow, smooth, steady daylight driver. Avoid accidents and traffic violations, and you’ll be rewarded with lower rates. Plus, your grandma will be so proud of you. Who doesn’t want a proud granny?

Sometimes it is the car.

5. Good Grades = Good Savings

Most insurance companies offer discounts for good grades. Who knew working on your future could help right now? So, next time you’re cramming for that calculus exam, remember it’s not just your GPA on the line—it’s your insurance payments too.

6. Ask for Discounts Like You’re at a Flea Market

Never be shy to ask about discounts. There are discounts for everything from being a loyal customer to simply being a responsible adult who pays bills on time. Channel your inner flea market haggler and see what you can score.

7. Drive a Sensible Car (Sorry, No Kias or Hyundais can be tough)

Insurance companies look at your car and determine how likely it is to be stolen or involved in an accident. The more that you see a car in a video on YouTube being stolen, the harder it is to insure. Look for a car that makes Mayo look spicy. Your insurance premium will thank you.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to getting the cheapest full coverage car insurance without having to resort to drastic measures. Remember, the road to savings is paved with smart choices—and maybe a little bit of humor along the way.

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Drive safe, save money, and keep laughing!

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Individual Health Insurance Is My Plan Going To Cost More Next Year?

Posted on by Matt McColm

Matt and Suzie have been helping people find health insurance that they can understand, use and afford. We are already seeing the challenges start to build with the changes to cost for next year.

The Washington Office of Insurance has released the proposed rate changes.

Yes, every year the rates are put out for public comment for the following year. They are not the final numbers. These remind me of the 2019 increases which means people will be shopping. Select your appointment now.

When to enroll in Health Insurance

Healthcare Open Enrollment starts October 1st runs to December 15th for plans starting January 1st.

If you have a major income adjustment then you want to select from December 1st through 15th.

If you select a healthcare plan from December 16 through January 15th then it will start February 1st.

Suzie appointment

Proposed Health Insurance rates for 2025:

I am putting in the links to make comments as it is important:

Asuris is off exchange increase 15.84% requested. Make comment Here

They made $789,164 and served 994 customers they also had 84.60% in claims.

Bridgespan Health Company increase 20.28% requested. Make comment here.

They lost $2,578,400 and served 544 customers they also had 86.24% in claims.

1st NCW Health Insurance Plan on Exchange

Community Health Plan of Washington (also known as Ambetter) increase 4.54% requested make comment here.

They lost $2,958,935 and served 23,598 customers they also had 85.19% in claims.

Suzie helping enroll health insurance or medicare

2nd NCW Health Insurance Plan on Exchange

Coordinated Care Corporation increase 12.15% requested. Make Comment here.

They lost $5,758,758 after risk adjustment and served 83,378 with 81.21% in claims

Suzie appointment

Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Washington increase 6.4% requested. Make comment here

They lost $3,189,795 and served 7,232 in Clark and Cowlitz increase 6.4% with 86.48% in claims.

Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Washington increase 7.88% requested. Make comment here.

They lost $15,507,921  and served 46,266 heavy risk adjustment payback with 86.73% in claims.

3rd NCW Health Insurance Plan on Exchange

Lifewise Health Plan of Washington increase of 8.03% requested. Make Comment here.

They made $3,570,521.20  and served 26,659 with 82.04% in claims.

Lifewise Health Plan of Washington increase of 6.9% requested. (Grandfathered Plans) Make Comment here.

They made $4,944,849  and served 2,224 with 81.91% in claims.

Molina Healthcare of Washington increase 7.55% requested. Make Comment here

They made $2,476.238  and served 41,454 with 82.02% in claims.

Premera Blue Cross increase of 14.87% requested. Make Comment here.

They made $10,754,109  and served 10,493 with 86.39% in claims.

Providence Health Plan increase 9.34% requested. Make comment here.

They lost $353,142  and served 246 with 82.95% in claims.

Regence Bluecross Blueshield of Oregon increase 16.8% requested. Make comment here.

They lost $2,655,266 after risk adjustment and served 8,397 with 85.44% in claims.

Regence Blueshield increase 23.81% requested. Make comment here.

They lost $6,585,594  and served 28,369 with 87.14% in claims.

United Healthcare of Oregon increase 23.56% requested. Make comment here.

They made $5,806.55 (thanks to risk adjustment)  and served 6,207 with 83.62% in claims.

Suzie appointment

Summary.

At Wenatchee Insurance, we enroll year round as people qualify for special enrollments. Plus we also take care of property insurance like cars, homes, and businesses alongside the Health, Medicare and Life Insurances.

Claims are driving up costs to insurance companies, who have to pass it on to consumers. Make your comments known. The more subsidy that you receive then the lower amount since the benchmark plan (second lowest cost silver plan available) will shift. There will be a lot of people shopping, select your appointment early as Suzie and Matt will run out of space available.

WE return calls & are here for appointments..OR you can start your free online quote now!

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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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