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413 N Mission St
Wenatchee, WA 98801

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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.

Does Home Insurance covers sinkholes in Washington state?

Posted on by Matt McColm

After this week’s sinkhole made a mess of rush hour traffic in Wenatchee, it is time to talk about them. Here’s a lighter take on how insurance might cover sinkholes in Washington state with Wenatchee Insurance:

Coverage for Sinkholes

  1. Standard Homeowners Insurance:
    • Not Covered: Sorry, but if a sinkhole swallows your house, your standard policy just says, “Good luck!”
  2. Add-On Coverage:
    • Possible Option: You might be able to add sinkhole coverage as an endorsement. Think of it as adding sprinkles to your ice cream – it costs extra, but it’s worth it when your house decides to play hide and seek with the earth.
  3. Earthquake Insurance:
    • Separate Policy: Earthquake insurance covers when the ground gets all shook up. But for sinkholes, you need a different kind of party invite. Make sure you’ve got the right one!

What Might Be Covered

  • Structural Damage: If your house takes a dive, this coverage helps put Humpty Dumpty back together again.
  • Personal Property: Your stuff inside might be covered, so you won’t lose your favorite couch to the abyss.
  • Living Expenses: If you need a temporary crash pad while your home gets fixed, you might get coverage for that too – so you can avoid moving in with your in-laws.

Steps to Take to cover sinkholes

  1. Review Your Policy: Dust off that policy and see if it mentions sinkholes – spoiler alert: it probably doesn’t.
  2. Contact Wenatchee Insurance: Give them a call and ask about adding sinkhole coverage. “Hey, can I get the sinkhole special, please?”
  3. Consider Earthquake Insurance: It’s a good backup if the ground decides to get jiggy with it, but remember, it’s not the same as sinkhole insurance.

Examples of Insurance Types for sinkholes

  • Homeowners Insurance: The basic “keep your house covered unless it falls into the earth” policy.
  • Earthquake Insurance: For when the ground plays maracas.
  • Sinkhole Insurance (Add-On): Optional coverage for when your house wants to star in a sinkhole documentary.

Talk to your Wenatchee Insurance agent to get the scoop on what’s covered and what’s not. Because nobody wants to wake up to a house that’s decided to dig its own basement!

Have you looked at Medicare C or Medicare Advantage?

Posted on by Matt McColm

There is original Medicare Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical insurance). Do you know about Medicare Part C or Medicare Advantage? It is another way for people eligible for Medicare to receive their healthcare coverage. They are not for everybody however they make up about half the Medicare Enrollments.

assistance in understanding and enrolling with Medicare with Suzie

 They are plans offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans are not available in every county of Washington state. Every year, we undergo rigorous training by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the insurance companies to understand the rules better. They are required by law to cover all medically necessary services that original medicare covers.

One way to look at it is the original Medicare is a General Contractor. The Medicare Advantage company acts like a subcontractor. When you select one of those MA plans original Medicare moves to the background and the Medicare Advantage plan takes care of the healthcare instead.

Suzie appointment

Here are some key points about Medicare Part C:

Comprehensive Coverage: Medicare Advantage plans typically bundle Part A, Part B, and often Part D (prescription drug) coverages. They may also offer additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare, such as hearing, vision, and dental.

Network Restrictions: These plans usually have network restrictions, meaning you may need to use healthcare providers who are part of the plan’s network. These are often Health Maintenance Organizations or HMO networks. Some plans also have Point of Service plans which benefit clients who travel. Reviewing networks is an important part of the Annual Enrollment Period!

Medicare Part C plans

Out-of-Pocket Costs: While Medicare Advantage plans can have lower premium costs, they may have different out-of-pocket costs compared to Original Medicare. They usually have co-pays for services like a traditional healthcare plan.

Additional Benefits: Many plans offer extras such as gym memberships or fitness clubs, transportation to medical appointments, and wellness programs. These are incentives or perks on top of the medical coverage that can be very attractive to clients.

Annual Enrollment: Beneficiaries can choose or switch Medicare Advantage plans during the annual enrollment periods.

From October 1st to October 14th is the review period where you can see the changes for the upcoming enrollment year.

October 15th through December 7th is the Annual Enrollment Period. This allows you to review and make changes to your Medicare plans.

appointment with Suzie

Medicare Advantage plans vary greatly in terms of costs, benefits, and restrictions, so clients should compare different plans to find one that best meets their health needs.

Suzie McColm at Wenatchee Insurance has been assisting people to understand and select plans for over ten years. She also has held a pharmacy technician’s license for over twenty years which is valuable in understanding the prescription side of coverage.

simple process for insurance
Wenatchee Insurance simple process

What in the heck is Full Coverage Car Insurance?

Posted on by Matt McColm
Wenatchee Insurance Car Full Coverage

When we talk about “full coverage” car insurance at Wenatchee Insurance, we mean a bundle of insurance types that provides greater protection for your car.

start quote

Here’s what full coverages usually includes:

Liability Insurance: This is a must-have. It pays for any damage or injuries you cause to others if you’re responsible for an accident. Washington State requires a minimal amount so you may want more to be safe.  

Collision Insurance: This part covers damage to your car if you get into an accident, no matter who caused it. It’s usually required by the bank if you still owe money on your car because it helps fix or replace it. Pay attention to any deductible.

Comprehensive Insurance: This covers other types of damage to your car not caused by an accident. Mean people, dumb animals and acts God. For example: If your neighbors’ pitbull chews off your tire then you have coverage. Pay attention to any deductible.

SUV full coverage car not bullet proof

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection: This helps cover costs if another driver causes an accident and doesn’t have enough insurance (or any at all) to pay for the damage to you or your car. With 1 in 5 drivers in Washington state not having insurance, this can be incredibly handy.

Additional full coverage information:

Banks and other places that lend money for cars often require you to have all these types of insurance. They do this to protect their investment in your car while you’re still paying it off. It makes sure your car stays in good shape and keeps its value as long as you owe money on it. This setup keeps both you and the lender secure until you finish paying for your car.

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If you are expecting your transmission to be repaired when breaks down, your laptop replaced after being stolen from your trunk, or your after-market parts replaced when not listed on your policy then you are going to be upset because those require other than full coverage. Let’s talk.

auto insurance couple luxury car

Is a PPO or a HDHP insurance plan better?

Posted on by Matt McColm
Suzie Health and Medicare Enrollment In person assistors

When going through the interwebs, I saw the question of someone asking what people ‘prefer a PPO or an HDHP when it came to a health insurance plan from work’.  While they are using the alphabet it is looking at different attributes of a health plan in a chocolate cake with apple pie comparison.

When choosing between a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) and a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP), it’s helpful to consider advice from experts like those at Wenatchee Insurance Agency. Here’s what you might hear from them, along with some examples to make it clearer:

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)

Flexibility: PPO plans are great if you want the freedom to select a doctor that accepts insurance.  For instance, if you have a preferred pediatrician at Confluence, a Cardiologist at Samaritan, and another specialist in Spokane, this plan might be best because you can visit them without needing a referral.

Costs: Wenatchee Insurance Agency might point out that while PPOs have higher monthly costs, they cover more from the start. With the wide networks, look to see if they have co-pays that occur before deductible.

High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)

In the old days, we called these MEC plans or Minimum Essential Coverage. These were designed to cheaply cover the ten essential coverages that every plan was required to have to avoid paying a tax penalty. The tax penalty went away on the Federal level in 2019.

Saving Money: If you’re looking to save on monthly premiums and you don’t often need medical care, an HDHP could be a better choice. For example, if you’re generally healthy and mainly need coverage in case of emergencies, the lower monthly cost could benefit you.

You take the difference between the money you would spend on an expensive plan and putting it into a savings account for later.

Health Savings Account (HSA): Wenatchee Insurance Agency would also highlight the advantage of an HSA with an HDHP if it qualifies. This is a way to save money tax-free for health expenses. Say you put $50 into your HSA each month; this money can be used for medical expenses. Some of these accounts have investment options like a 401K.

Practical Examples

Example 1: Imagine a family where one member has a chronic condition requiring multiple specialist visits. A PPO might be better for them because it reduces the hassle of getting referrals and handles more costs upfront.

Example 2: Consider a young, single person who rarely goes to the doctor. An HDHP with lower monthly payments and an HSA might be more cost-effective. This person can save money in an HSA for future needs while enjoying lower premiums.

Advice from Wenatchee Insurance Agency

Wenatchee Insurance Agency would advise looking at your current health needs and financial situation. If your family has ongoing medical needs or prefers the flexibility of seeing various specialists without barriers, a PPO might be the way to go. However, if your primary concern is budget and you are in good health, an HDHP could be more appropriate.

In summary, choosing between a PPO and an HDHP involves balancing your health care needs with your financial capabilities. Wenatchee Insurance Agency suggests that by understanding these differences and considering your personal circumstances, you can make a choice that best suits your needs and budget.

Reviewing and reading insurance plans is critical. Having an adviser that you trust is an important step.

talk with Suzie
Insurance Bundle

Help, My Job’s Health Insurance Is Too Expensive For My Family

Posted on by Matt McColm
Family Health Insurance

You probably haven’t heard about the “family glitch”. The “family glitch” is an old rule in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) makes health insurance too expensive. It was impacting about 5 million of Americans and made a lot of people mad.

Here’s how it worked: The ACA said that big employers have to offer health insurance that’s affordable for their full-time workers and their families.

But when it calculates affordability, they only look  at the cost for the worker, not the entire family. (This was 8.39% of the employee’s income for 2024.)

It was frustrating because it made getting health insurance hard.

Health Insurance Rule Change

This “family glitch” was impacting millions of American and was fixed by an IRS rules change. It is why a person now needs to know the lowest cost to cover the employee and the lowest cost to cover the entire family.

Check Family Glitch

If an employer now offers a plan that is unaffordable, for the family then the family members can get their health insurance with the marketplace and be eligible for advanced premium tax credits to lower their monthly cost of insurance.

The employee has access to affordable health insurance from their employer and the family has affordable insurance on the marketplace. It’s a win/win.

Free help understanding Health Insurance

Not everyone knows about this important change in health insurance and this is why Suzie and Matt like to go over applications as minor adjustments can mean the difference between having coverage and not. They ran the Enrollment Center in Wenatchee assisting people for years understanding and enrolling into insurance plans without charging fees.

chat with Suzie

Wenatchee Insurance is an independent agency that does not charge fees and have extensive experience working with the Washington Healthplanfinder, Apple Health and Medicare to provide usable options for our clients.

Insurance Bundle

Topics: WenatcheeInsurance, Enrollment, Suzie, Premera, Molina, Kaiser, Chelan, Ambetter, AppleHealth, Suzie, Washington, Healthplanfinder,

Funny ways to save money on car insurance near me

Posted on by Matt McColm

Shopping for car insurance sucks. We know it and we do our best to do things differently at Wenatchee Insurance.

Car insurance by Wenatchee River Van

Saving money on car insurance doesn’t have to be a drag. Here are the top 5 humorous yet practical tips to keep your wallet happy:

chat with Shayla

Top 5


Battle of the Quotes: Treat insurance shopping like a reality TV show contest. Shayla enters the information into a rater and see which companies come out on top. May the best rate win!


Best of all no spam like from the some of the internet quote engines.


Deductible Daredevil: Boost your deductible to lower your premiums. It’s like a game of financial chicken—how high can you go without sweating bullets every time you drive?


Pro-tip: If you pay Deductible Daredevil put the amount into an interest bearing account so it is ready if you ever need it and you will be making a money from your stash.


Discount Detective: Turn into Sherlock Holmes and hunt down every discount possible. Safe driver? Check. Low mileage? Check. Anti-theft system? Triple check. Leave no stone unturned in your quest for the ultimate deal.


Bulk Buying Bonanza: Bundle your car insurance with other policies like homeowners or renters insurance. It’s like buying in bulk at the grocery store but instead of toilet paper, you’re saving on peace of mind.


Credit Score Gymnastics: Boosting your credit score can lower your premiums. Think of it as financial gymnastics—flex those credit muscles and watch the rates tumble!

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With these tips, you’ll hopefully not only save some cash but also have a chuckle along the way!

Car Insurance Summary

Shopping for insurance can be overwhelming. At Wenatchee Insurance, we work hard at making insurance understandable and usable. We only work in Washington State and do not sell your data across the planet because we are an independent local insurance agency.

Insurance Bundle

How to Avoid Insurance Fraud in the Renters Market

Posted on by admin

Insurance fraud leads to serious consequences in the renters market, leading to financial losses for insurers and policyholders alike. By implementing preventive measures and staying vigilant, renters in the Wenatchee, WA region can remain safe and secure the integrity of their insurance coverage.

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Verify Information and Documentation

When applying for renters insurance, it’s essential to verify all information and documentation provided to insurers. This includes accurate reporting of personal belongings, rental property details, and occupancy information. Do not give dishonest information because it can become insurance fraud and jeopardize coverage in the event of a claim.

Choose Reputable Insurance Providers

Research insurance companies thoroughly, read customer reviews, and check their ratings with industry organizations like AM Best or J.D. Power. Working with a trusted insurer ensures that policyholders receive reliable coverage and support when needed.

Be Cautious of Unusual Requests or Offers

Be wary of any unusual requests or offers related to renters insurance, such as unsolicited calls or emails promising unusually low premiums or instant coverage. Scammers may attempt to exploit renters by offering fraudulent policies or misleading information. Verify the legitimacy of insurance offers directly with reputable insurers or licensed agents.

Report Suspicious Activities

If you suspect insurance fraud or encounter suspicious activities related to renters insurance, report them to your insurance provider or state insurance department immediately. Providing timely and accurate information about potential fraud helps protect other renters and maintains the integrity of the insurance market.

Stay Informed and Educated

Stay informed about typical insurance fraud schemes and tactics targeting renters. Educate yourself about the warning signs of fraud and how to protect your personal information and assets. 

Let Wenatchee Insurance Agency Inform You

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Wenatchee Insurance Agency helps answer renter’s insurance questions and serves the Wenatchee, WA, region. Call us today.

How do I get Health Insurance in Washington State during Special Enrollment?

Posted on by Matt McColm

We have found over the years that filling out an application as soon as possible can get many people Health Insurance earlier than waiting for Open Enrollment. (Open Enrollment runs Nov 15 through Jan 15th).

woman qualified for special health insurance enrollment

Suzie and Matt have been helping people with applications and answering questions for over a decade. They ran the Wenatchee Enrollment Center. They charge no fees.

chat with suzie

Special enrollment periods (SEPs) for health insurance allow people to enroll in a health insurance plan outside the usual open enrollment period. These periods are typically triggered by specific life events that involve changes in your family. Here are some common reasons you might qualify for a special enrollment period:

Annual SEPs:

Apple Health: It’s Washington State Medicaid aka “State Insurance”. It is income based. You can enroll year-round.

child qualify Apple Health Coordinated Care

American Indian/Alaska Native: If you are affiliated with a tribe then you have enrollment year-round.

Cascade Care Savings: If your income is less than 250% of the Federal Poverty level then you may be eligible. Additionally, if you are not enrolled in a Cascade Care Silver or Gold plan then you could upgrade.

Short Special Enrollments:

Change in your family status: If you get married, divorced, have a birth or adopt a child, or the death of someone on your plan.

Loss of health coverage: When you lose coverage for turning 26 from your parent’s plan. Lose coverage from an employer plan or moving from Apple Health.

Change in residence: Moving to a new county, moving to the U.S. from a foreign country, or a student moving to or from the place they attend college.

man lost health insurance needing help

Changes in eligibility for financial help: Becoming newly eligible or ineligible for premium tax credits or having a change in eligibility for cost-sharing reductions can also trigger a SEP. (Yes, always file your taxes).

Other qualifying events: Certain events, like changes in your income that affect the coverage you qualify for, becoming a U.S. citizen, leaving jail, or AmeriCorps service.

Normally, you must provide documents of the qualifying event and apply within a certain timeframe, usually 60 days after the event. This allows you to access or change your health insurance coverage in response to changes in your life circumstances.

Summary

If you do not have health insurance then we want to work with you immediately to see if you qualify. If you need additional insurance types then Wenatchee Insurance is happy to lend a hand.

appointment with Suzie

Topics: Health, Healthcare, Applehealth, Medicare, 26, Premera, Molina, Ambetter, Dental, Suzie, Wenatchee Insurance,

How do I get insurance for my vacant property in Chelan county?

Posted on by Matt McColm
appointment with Shayla

Insuring a vacant property can be riskier and more complicated than insuring one that’s occupied. Here are simplified risks and some examples:

  1. Vandalism and Theft: Vacant properties are often targets for vandalism, like graffiti or broken windows, and theft of things like copper pipes.

Example: How many times have you heard of farm equipment being stolen?

  1. Undetected Damage: Problems like water leaks or mold might not be noticed quickly in a vacant property, leading to worse damage.

Example: Your Airbnb cabin not renting for a few weeks? What happens if a pipe freezes and breaks, and it is not checked on in a few weeks?

  1. Fire Hazards: An empty property might be at higher risk for fires due to outdated wiring or even arson.

Example: An electrical fault in an abandoned building could start a fire.

  1. Liability Issues: If someone gets injured on the property, like a trespasser or a child playing, the owner might be responsible.

Example: A child trespassing to explore an empty house gets hurt, and the property owner is held liable. This includes the abandoned mines scattered about the hills.

  1. Weather Damage: Without regular upkeep, vacant properties are more vulnerable to damage from storms or cold weather.
  2. Insurance Challenges: It can be harder and more expensive to get insurance for a vacant property, and the coverage might be limited.
  3. Squatters: Empty properties might attract squatters, leading to legal issues.

Example: Someone might start living in an abandoned property illegally, and the owner has to go through a legal process to evict them.

In short, vacant properties face risks like damage, theft, and legal issues due to their lack of regular occupancy and maintenance. Owners should secure and check these properties regularly and ensure they have the right insurance coverage.

talk with Shayla
simple process for insurance
Wenatchee Insurance simple process

Topics: Vacant Property Insurance, squatters, liability, Chelan County, wenatchee insurance, Okanogan County, Mine, squatter, arson, independent insurance agent, Airbnb,

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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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