Dallas-based InsureAmerica Management Company has released a new Internet site, www.byoib.com, to aid in recruitment of nationwide health insurance agents. Complete with commission examples, earnings potential breakdowns and an income potential calculator, interested health insurance agents can get a good look at the opportunity InsureAmerica has to offer.
The new website is part of the company’s aggressive growth and expansion plan to further extend its national reach.
“We know we have a business opportunity and a system that health insurance agents and agency owners can be successful with. We just needed an avenue to express this,” states Dan Roberts, Vice President, Sales and Marketing. “The days of simple newspaper ads are a thing of the past. People want more information and want to know what you can do for them. This is what our recruiting site is about…the agents and what we can do to make them successful.”
The website address, www.byoib.com, comes from the acronym of the phrase Build Your Own Insurance Business, which is the recurring theme of the website. InsureAmerica isn’t about selling health insurance. It’s goal is to also help others grow their own businesses.
“Selling health insurance and running your own insurance office is a daunting task and at times agents can feel like they are all alone. Through this website we want to convey to potential agents that we are here to help them and that they are not successful because of us, but that we are successful because of them. We have people in our group that have built very lucrative businesses and enjoy helping others do the same,” says Dan Roberts, Vice President, Sales and Marketing.
In addition to being able to see commissions and earnings information, potential agents can find out more about the products that InsureAmerica represents, the in-house lead program and company background.
About InsureAmerica
Headquartered in Dallas, TX, InsureAmerica has been providing individuals and small businesses with quality health insurance for 17 years. The company has a nationwide presence with agents in 30 states. Insurance of America offers health insurance, life insurance and health savings accounts, among other products. All products are provided by A-rated or better carriers and endorsed by the National Business Association.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Using Payday Advance Loans Wisely: Emily’s Smart Move
| Thinking about taking out a payday advance loan but worried about falling into a debt trap? Read this real-world scenario of how one person navigated the maze of payday advance loans to stay out of debt. Ever wonder how some people manage to take out expensive payday advance loans and still come out on top financially? It’s not easy, but it is certainly possible. This is the story of Emily, one person who used a payday advance loan to dig herself out of a financial rut. Emily’s charge card, car payment, cellular phone bill, and rent were all due in three days, $1,500 total. Emily had $500 in the bank. Her monthly pay check wouldn’t come for ten more days, and her boss said no to a payday advance. Loans were out of the question, she thought. She needed the money in three days, and a bank loan would take that long just to mail her the paperwork. If Emily was late paying her $300 credit card bill, she would incur a $35 late fee which would make her balance exceed her credit limit, earning her a $50 over-the-limit fee. She couldn’t afford to be late on her car loan, cellular phone or rent, even though there were no late fees. Having paid each of those bills late a few times in the past, she’d be skating on thin ice if she did it again. Cash Advance Payday Loans: Emily’s Salvation? Emily decided to apply for a cash advance payday loan. She knew it would be foolish simply to trust a lender of these loans for information. Searching on the internet, she found a website that did not belong to a payday advance loan lender, but instead reviewed the payday loan lenders. She visited the website of online payday advance loan lender that was rated particularly well. Emily knows there are a lot of cheats on the web, so she was careful. Here’s what she looked for: • The loan company’s website had a link to the Better Business Bureau. Clicking on the link, Emily saw the company’s record: member in good standing with no unresolved complaints. • The loan company’s application clearly stated what the fees were, and what the annual percentage rate (APR) was. It also stated what penalties Emily would have to pay if she did not pay back the loan on time. • Looking at a few other websites, Emily saw that the original loan company’s loan terms, fees, and interest rates were competitive. • She double-checked that her upcoming paycheck would be enough to cover all her outstanding bills. • She then checked into all the bills she would have to pay in between her upcoming paycheck and the one after that. After all, with her next paycheck going to repay the payday advance loan, she would need to make sure there was enough money left over to pay her remaining bills. She didn’t want to have to take out another loan after that. • Emily figured out that she would have $300 left over after she paid all the bills between now and the next month’s paycheck. Living for 40 days on only $300 would be a challenge. But she decided she could do it if she economized. She would bring her lunch to work rather than buy it in the cafeteria, and give up going out at night--including un-inviting herself from a co-worker’s upcoming birthday party at the neighborhood bar. • She posted notes on her refrigerator, steering wheel, and wallet, reminding herself not to make too many car trips, waste food, or splurge. She made herself the goal of reading several books she’d always wanted to read, rather than going out. She got them free from the library. Did Emily’s Payday Advance Loan Plan Succeed? Fully prepared, Emily took a $1000 cash advance from the ABC Loan Company and repaid it on the 15th along with a $50 fee. She saved $85 in credit card penalty fees. She also stayed on the good side of her landlord, car loan lender, bank, and cellular phone provider. The experience also brought home to Emily that she was living too close to the limits of her paycheck. She realized that she would be better off moving out of her studio apartment, into a room in an apartment of a few friends. She’d also save money on gas by moving closer to work. Today, Emily is grateful to the payday lender for saving her from financial disaster. She’s also proud of herself for being able to stay out of the debt trap so many other payday cash advance borrowers get into. She recommends to all her friends that if they ever get a payday loan, they do their homework, just like she did. |
Do You Need Bad Credit Help
? Are you one of thousands with no
credit and no collateral to help secure approval, or you just
have extremely bad credit and no one wants to help you, and all
you hear is stories and more stories?
Bad credit is a term used to describe a poor credit rating.
Common practices that can damage a credit rating include making
late payments, skipping payments, exceeding card limits or
declaring bankruptcy. Bad Credit can result in being denied
credit.
Bad credit can result in a negative rating from the credit
reporting agencies. Many factors can contribute to someone
getting a "bad credit" rating, among these are non-payment of an
account or late payments over an extended length of time.
Whether non-payment of an account is willful or due to financial
hardship, the result can be the same, a negative rating which
will result in a low credit score. However, lenders are more
willing to work with individuals if the person contacts the
lender to let them know they are having problems meeting their
commitment to pay. 100% Online Debt Relief! No Phone Calls! You
must have at least $2,500 of total debt over two or more
accounts to qualify for our Help. Name, email, and Zip Code are
required. US Residents only. No phone call required - all
customer interaction is done online!
Christian Debt Consolidation Services Professional Debt
Consolidation with a Christian perspective. Lower monthly
payments. Reduce or Eliminate High interest rates. Apply now for
a FREE NO-OBLIGATION QUOTE!
Fast Loans Online by DrCredit We are currently able to provide
auto loans, mortgage loans, debt counseling, home equity,
refinance loans, debt consolidation loans, personal loans and
much more...
A credit score is defined as a statistical method of assessing
an applicant's credit worthiness. An applicant's credit card
history; amount of outstanding debt; the type of credit used;
negative information such as bankruptcies or late payments;
collection accounts and judgments; too little credit history,
and too many credit lines with the maximum amount borrowed are
all included in credit-scoring models to determine the credit
score.
Raising your credit score is possible. It's a well known fact
that lenders will give people with higher credit scores lower
interest rates on mortgages, car loans and credit cards. If your
credit score falls under 620 just getting loans and credit cards
with reasonable terms is difficult.
Here are five things that you can use to raise credit score.
1. Correct obvious mistakes.
Your credit score is what shows up in your credit report. Review
your reports from all three credit bureaus for accuracy once a
year as well as several months before applying for a loan.
Changing a mistake on your report can take 30 days to three
months, or more. Get Your credit report from the three major
bureaus: Experian, Trans Union and Equifax.
2. Pay Your Bills On Time
Your payment history makes up 35% of your total credit score.
Your recent payment history will carry much more weight than
what happened five years ago.
Missing just one payment on anything can knock 50 to 100 points
off of your credit score.
Paying your bills on time is the best way to get started
rebuilding your credit rating and raising your credit score.
3. Reduce your credit card balances.
A heavily weighted factor in your FICO score is how much money
you owe on your credit cards relative to your total credit
limit. Generally, it's good to keep your balances at or below 25
percent of your credit card limit, said Jeanne Kelly, founder of
The Kelly Group in Brookfield, Conn., which helps clients
improve their credit scores.
4. Don’t Close Old Accounts
In the past people were told to close old accounts they weren’t
using. But with today's current scoring methods that could
actually hurt your credit score.
Closing old or paid off credit accounts lowers the total credit
available to you and makes any balances you have appear larger
in credit score calculations. Closing your oldest accounts can
actually shorten the length of your credit history and to a
lender it makes you less credit worthy.
If you are trying to minimize identity theft and it's worth the
peace of mind for you to close your old or paid off accounts,
the good news is it will only lower you score a minimal amount.
But just by keeping those old accounts open you can raise credit
score for you.
5. Avoid Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy is the single worst thing you can do to your credit
score. Bankruptcy will lower your credit score by 200 points or
more and is very difficult to come back from.
Once your credit score falls below 620, any loan you get will be
far more expensive. A bankruptcy on your credit record is
reported for up to 10 years.
The reality of a bankruptcy is it will limit you to
high-interest lenders that will squeeze out high interest rate
payments from you for years.
It is better to get credit counseling to help you with your
bills and avoid bankruptcy at all costs. By getting credit
counseling instead of declaring bankruptcy you can raise credit
score over a much shorter period of time.
credit and no collateral to help secure approval, or you just
have extremely bad credit and no one wants to help you, and all
you hear is stories and more stories?
Bad credit is a term used to describe a poor credit rating.
Common practices that can damage a credit rating include making
late payments, skipping payments, exceeding card limits or
declaring bankruptcy. Bad Credit can result in being denied
credit.
Bad credit can result in a negative rating from the credit
reporting agencies. Many factors can contribute to someone
getting a "bad credit" rating, among these are non-payment of an
account or late payments over an extended length of time.
Whether non-payment of an account is willful or due to financial
hardship, the result can be the same, a negative rating which
will result in a low credit score. However, lenders are more
willing to work with individuals if the person contacts the
lender to let them know they are having problems meeting their
commitment to pay. 100% Online Debt Relief! No Phone Calls! You
must have at least $2,500 of total debt over two or more
accounts to qualify for our Help. Name, email, and Zip Code are
required. US Residents only. No phone call required - all
customer interaction is done online!
Christian Debt Consolidation Services Professional Debt
Consolidation with a Christian perspective. Lower monthly
payments. Reduce or Eliminate High interest rates. Apply now for
a FREE NO-OBLIGATION QUOTE!
Fast Loans Online by DrCredit We are currently able to provide
auto loans, mortgage loans, debt counseling, home equity,
refinance loans, debt consolidation loans, personal loans and
much more...
A credit score is defined as a statistical method of assessing
an applicant's credit worthiness. An applicant's credit card
history; amount of outstanding debt; the type of credit used;
negative information such as bankruptcies or late payments;
collection accounts and judgments; too little credit history,
and too many credit lines with the maximum amount borrowed are
all included in credit-scoring models to determine the credit
score.
Raising your credit score is possible. It's a well known fact
that lenders will give people with higher credit scores lower
interest rates on mortgages, car loans and credit cards. If your
credit score falls under 620 just getting loans and credit cards
with reasonable terms is difficult.
Here are five things that you can use to raise credit score.
1. Correct obvious mistakes.
Your credit score is what shows up in your credit report. Review
your reports from all three credit bureaus for accuracy once a
year as well as several months before applying for a loan.
Changing a mistake on your report can take 30 days to three
months, or more. Get Your credit report from the three major
bureaus: Experian, Trans Union and Equifax.
2. Pay Your Bills On Time
Your payment history makes up 35% of your total credit score.
Your recent payment history will carry much more weight than
what happened five years ago.
Missing just one payment on anything can knock 50 to 100 points
off of your credit score.
Paying your bills on time is the best way to get started
rebuilding your credit rating and raising your credit score.
3. Reduce your credit card balances.
A heavily weighted factor in your FICO score is how much money
you owe on your credit cards relative to your total credit
limit. Generally, it's good to keep your balances at or below 25
percent of your credit card limit, said Jeanne Kelly, founder of
The Kelly Group in Brookfield, Conn., which helps clients
improve their credit scores.
4. Don’t Close Old Accounts
In the past people were told to close old accounts they weren’t
using. But with today's current scoring methods that could
actually hurt your credit score.
Closing old or paid off credit accounts lowers the total credit
available to you and makes any balances you have appear larger
in credit score calculations. Closing your oldest accounts can
actually shorten the length of your credit history and to a
lender it makes you less credit worthy.
If you are trying to minimize identity theft and it's worth the
peace of mind for you to close your old or paid off accounts,
the good news is it will only lower you score a minimal amount.
But just by keeping those old accounts open you can raise credit
score for you.
5. Avoid Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy is the single worst thing you can do to your credit
score. Bankruptcy will lower your credit score by 200 points or
more and is very difficult to come back from.
Once your credit score falls below 620, any loan you get will be
far more expensive. A bankruptcy on your credit record is
reported for up to 10 years.
The reality of a bankruptcy is it will limit you to
high-interest lenders that will squeeze out high interest rate
payments from you for years.
It is better to get credit counseling to help you with your
bills and avoid bankruptcy at all costs. By getting credit
counseling instead of declaring bankruptcy you can raise credit
score over a much shorter period of time.
Employee Evaluations: Four Tips to Help Managers with Performance Review Conversations
Managers talk with the people on their teams every day. Whatever the topic, most of these conversations happen with no stress, little anxiety, and minimal tension. But when the conversation is about an employee’s performance, anxieties often abound. Here are four ways to reduce the tension and defensiveness that too often surround performance evaluations.
1. Don’t wait for the meeting to deliver the performance appraisal form.
I worked for large corporations for fifteen years before beginning my consulting career. Every one of those companies — GE, United Airlines, PepsiCo — took performance appraisal very seriously. And my bosses at those companies also took their responsibilities for performance evaluation seriously as well. But all of my bosses kicked off the appraisal discussion in a way that was guaranteed to get it off to a bad start. How did they begin? They set up the time for the meeting and then waited until I was sitting across the desk to hand me their completed appraisal form.
At the start of the meeting my boss would give me his appraisal form and I would engage all of my speed-reading skills, whipping through the document as fast as I could to see what he had said about my performance. While I was reading the evaluation (and probably missing some key points in my haste to take everything in) my boss would be behind his desk, pretending to work, but in truth trying to gauge how I was reacting to the evaluation he had written.
What a terrible way to begin! Don’t wait until the meeting starts to give the employee your performance appraisal document. It’s far more effective to go up to the employee an hour or so in advance of the meeting, and say something like this: “Mary, you know we’re getting together at two o’clock to go over your performance appraisal. Here it is. Why don’t you take some time between now and then to review it? Read it carefully and jot down any questions that you’d like to ask.”
Giving the person the appraisal to review in advance of the meeting can lessen defensiveness. It allows her time to think about what you’ve written and prevents spur-of-the-moment reactions. You’ll usually find that giving the person a chance to read what you’ve written in advance produces much more effective business discussions.
2. Set a time frame (and give yourself an extra fifteen minutes).
Your discussion of a person’s performance evaluation may be one of the most important interactions you'll ever have with that individual; make sure you’ve allowed enough time. In most cases, an hour should be sufficient to review the appraisal document itself as well as discuss many of the other subjects that often pop up during performance reviews — development activities, career plans, and future goals and projects. Make certain that the very next activity you’ve scheduled after finishing the review isn't one that must begin at a set time. If you provide yourself with a little flexibility at the end, you can take the time to wrap up the discussion comfortably.
3. Don’t start by discussing the form itself.
Yes, the form is important, but the form simply serves as the formal record of your assessment of how well the individual has done over the past year. Rather than beginning with the first entry on the appraisal form and moving lockstep through the document item-by-item, it’s more effective to start by asking a general question that requires the employee’s thoughtful consideration: “Tim, you’ve had a chance to read the appraisal. Why don’t you start by telling me how you feel the past year has gone?” Then listen as the individual responds and continue the discussion from there.
4. Don’t fixate on getting the employee to agree with your performance appraisal.
One of the most common questions managers ask me during training sessions involves how they can gain an employee’s agreement with what they’ve written in the performance appraisal, particularly when what they’ve written isn't entirely favorable. “Don’t try!” is my advice to them.
What is a performance appraisal? It is a formal record of the supervisor’s opinion of the quality of the employee’s work. Pay attention to the key phrase, “. . . the supervisor’s opinion . . .”
Of course the employee is going to have a different opinion — all of us believe we’re above average. The goal in the performance review discussion is not to gain the employee’s agreement, although it is nice if that happens, the goal is to gain the employee’s understanding. As long as the employee understands how you came up with the evaluation, you’ve done your job. Of course, he may disagree (particularly if you’ve set the bar high and have tough, demanding standards). But don’t waste time trying to convince a person that you’re right and she’s wrong. The important thing is that she understands your expectations and how her performance was assessed.
There’s a lot more to conducting good appraisal discussions, of course. But these four tips should make a tough job just a little bit easier.
1. Don’t wait for the meeting to deliver the performance appraisal form.
I worked for large corporations for fifteen years before beginning my consulting career. Every one of those companies — GE, United Airlines, PepsiCo — took performance appraisal very seriously. And my bosses at those companies also took their responsibilities for performance evaluation seriously as well. But all of my bosses kicked off the appraisal discussion in a way that was guaranteed to get it off to a bad start. How did they begin? They set up the time for the meeting and then waited until I was sitting across the desk to hand me their completed appraisal form.
At the start of the meeting my boss would give me his appraisal form and I would engage all of my speed-reading skills, whipping through the document as fast as I could to see what he had said about my performance. While I was reading the evaluation (and probably missing some key points in my haste to take everything in) my boss would be behind his desk, pretending to work, but in truth trying to gauge how I was reacting to the evaluation he had written.
What a terrible way to begin! Don’t wait until the meeting starts to give the employee your performance appraisal document. It’s far more effective to go up to the employee an hour or so in advance of the meeting, and say something like this: “Mary, you know we’re getting together at two o’clock to go over your performance appraisal. Here it is. Why don’t you take some time between now and then to review it? Read it carefully and jot down any questions that you’d like to ask.”
Giving the person the appraisal to review in advance of the meeting can lessen defensiveness. It allows her time to think about what you’ve written and prevents spur-of-the-moment reactions. You’ll usually find that giving the person a chance to read what you’ve written in advance produces much more effective business discussions.
2. Set a time frame (and give yourself an extra fifteen minutes).
Your discussion of a person’s performance evaluation may be one of the most important interactions you'll ever have with that individual; make sure you’ve allowed enough time. In most cases, an hour should be sufficient to review the appraisal document itself as well as discuss many of the other subjects that often pop up during performance reviews — development activities, career plans, and future goals and projects. Make certain that the very next activity you’ve scheduled after finishing the review isn't one that must begin at a set time. If you provide yourself with a little flexibility at the end, you can take the time to wrap up the discussion comfortably.
3. Don’t start by discussing the form itself.
Yes, the form is important, but the form simply serves as the formal record of your assessment of how well the individual has done over the past year. Rather than beginning with the first entry on the appraisal form and moving lockstep through the document item-by-item, it’s more effective to start by asking a general question that requires the employee’s thoughtful consideration: “Tim, you’ve had a chance to read the appraisal. Why don’t you start by telling me how you feel the past year has gone?” Then listen as the individual responds and continue the discussion from there.
4. Don’t fixate on getting the employee to agree with your performance appraisal.
One of the most common questions managers ask me during training sessions involves how they can gain an employee’s agreement with what they’ve written in the performance appraisal, particularly when what they’ve written isn't entirely favorable. “Don’t try!” is my advice to them.
What is a performance appraisal? It is a formal record of the supervisor’s opinion of the quality of the employee’s work. Pay attention to the key phrase, “. . . the supervisor’s opinion . . .”
Of course the employee is going to have a different opinion — all of us believe we’re above average. The goal in the performance review discussion is not to gain the employee’s agreement, although it is nice if that happens, the goal is to gain the employee’s understanding. As long as the employee understands how you came up with the evaluation, you’ve done your job. Of course, he may disagree (particularly if you’ve set the bar high and have tough, demanding standards). But don’t waste time trying to convince a person that you’re right and she’s wrong. The important thing is that she understands your expectations and how her performance was assessed.
There’s a lot more to conducting good appraisal discussions, of course. But these four tips should make a tough job just a little bit easier.
Understanding The Provisions Of Your Extended Auto Warranty
An extended auto warranty can be a confusing document for many people. Indeed, there are very few people who actually completely understand the terms and conditions -- and the requirements placed on the consumer -- associated with an extended auto warranty. In this article, the reader is provided with a general overview of the standard terms and conditions associated with an extended auto warranty.
By understanding the terms, conditions and provisions of an extended auto warranty, you can determine if the added protection is right for you. Do keep in mind that when you purchase a new automobile, the manufacturer provides you with a relatively comprehensive warranty at no additional charge. As a general rule, an extended auto warranty expands the term that the manufacturer’s warranty will remain in place. For example, there are warranties available that will expand the length of coverage from a standard three year term to five or even ten years. (In some instances the extended warranty will also broaden the items that are covered by at least some degree.)
When considering the purchase of an extended auto warranty, you need to closely examine what precisely you will gain by paying additional money for the added protection. As mentioned, the primary benefit that can be had by purchasing most extended warranties is a lengthening of the amount of time the automobile will be protected by the warranty coverage. Extending the warranty may not make practical sense in some situations. For example, if you have purchased a new automobile that comes with a standard three year warranty coverage, you will not want to obtain extended protection if you will not own the car much beyond the three year term.
Some extended auto warranty plans also expand the breadth of coverage. If you tend to be “hard” on a car, if you tend to incur a significant number of bills for auto maintenance, repair and the like, an extended and expanded warranty program that will provide broader coverage may be a perfect idea for you.
There are a number of oftentimes overlooked elements associated with an extended auto warranty that are extremely important. First of all, many extended auto warranty plans require you to obtain service work on your vehicle at a specific location. Many such plans require you to obtain service work at the dealership or at another specifically authorized service center. If you obtain service work elsewhere, you may void or cancel the warranty all together.
Another common provision on most extended auto warranty plans oblige you to obtain regular service on your vehicle within specifically delineated timeframes. A failure to obtain such service will result in the voiding or cancellation of the warranty.
In the final analysis, before you spend additional money on an extended auto warranty, you need to take the time to weigh and balance the costs and benefits, the obligations and recompenses that are associated with the proposed warranty plan. By doing your homework in advance of enrolling in any extended auto warranty plan you will make certain that you elect the coverage that best meets your particular needs.
By understanding the terms, conditions and provisions of an extended auto warranty, you can determine if the added protection is right for you. Do keep in mind that when you purchase a new automobile, the manufacturer provides you with a relatively comprehensive warranty at no additional charge. As a general rule, an extended auto warranty expands the term that the manufacturer’s warranty will remain in place. For example, there are warranties available that will expand the length of coverage from a standard three year term to five or even ten years. (In some instances the extended warranty will also broaden the items that are covered by at least some degree.)
When considering the purchase of an extended auto warranty, you need to closely examine what precisely you will gain by paying additional money for the added protection. As mentioned, the primary benefit that can be had by purchasing most extended warranties is a lengthening of the amount of time the automobile will be protected by the warranty coverage. Extending the warranty may not make practical sense in some situations. For example, if you have purchased a new automobile that comes with a standard three year warranty coverage, you will not want to obtain extended protection if you will not own the car much beyond the three year term.
Some extended auto warranty plans also expand the breadth of coverage. If you tend to be “hard” on a car, if you tend to incur a significant number of bills for auto maintenance, repair and the like, an extended and expanded warranty program that will provide broader coverage may be a perfect idea for you.
There are a number of oftentimes overlooked elements associated with an extended auto warranty that are extremely important. First of all, many extended auto warranty plans require you to obtain service work on your vehicle at a specific location. Many such plans require you to obtain service work at the dealership or at another specifically authorized service center. If you obtain service work elsewhere, you may void or cancel the warranty all together.
Another common provision on most extended auto warranty plans oblige you to obtain regular service on your vehicle within specifically delineated timeframes. A failure to obtain such service will result in the voiding or cancellation of the warranty.
In the final analysis, before you spend additional money on an extended auto warranty, you need to take the time to weigh and balance the costs and benefits, the obligations and recompenses that are associated with the proposed warranty plan. By doing your homework in advance of enrolling in any extended auto warranty plan you will make certain that you elect the coverage that best meets your particular needs.
Auto Insurance Rates
will vary depending on the insurance agency, your driving record, and the type of insurance you are looking to purchase. I you are looking for affordable car insurance or truck insurance then read on.
There are ways to reduce your premiums without giving up coverage. One of the easiest things to do is get auto insurance rate quotes online. This will allow you to comparative shop stress free.
Raising your deductibles is the easiest way to reduce your rates. The higher the deductible, the lower the premium will be. The deductible is the portion you will have to pay in the event of accident, before your insurance coverage steps in. It’s important not to carry a deductible that’s more than what you are able to pay. Your insurance company will not honor its portion of the claim until you’ve paid your deductible. However, the higher your deductible the lower your premium cost will be, so you need to find a
Always remember to ask your insurance broker for any available discounts. Quite often we forget to ask and they don’t seem to volunteer the information. A clean record on the current policy for a certain period of time, having your homeowner's coverage with the same insurer, taking a defensive driving course, having an accident free driving record, and having an approved anti-theft device will reduce your auto insurance rates.
The type of car you drive can also reduce your rates. Stay away from cars that have a high class rating. Rates vary among the different makes and models of vehicles. The different rates are based on the risk of accident, cost to repair, higher theft rates for a particular model and replacement costs such as with a new vehicle. So be sure your vehicle isn’t going to be in a category that increases your rates too much.
A safe driving record consisting of no accidents and no traffic violations will get you the most substantial discount. Most insurance companies are very good at recognizing good driving habits. These are the drivers they want to insure because their risk is much lower.
If the car is old and not very valuable, comprehensive insurance is probably not worth buying as it can quickly add up to more than you’d ever receive in the event of an accident. You can save up to 20% by eliminating collision insurance. You may want to opt not to carry collision insurance as well which can save you and additional 20%.
Check around to make sure you are getting the best auto rates you can. Online auto insurance shopping has taken the guess work out of buying insurance and you can very quickly see if you are being hosed. So if your insurance is coming due now is the time to start shopping!.
There are ways to reduce your premiums without giving up coverage. One of the easiest things to do is get auto insurance rate quotes online. This will allow you to comparative shop stress free.
Raising your deductibles is the easiest way to reduce your rates. The higher the deductible, the lower the premium will be. The deductible is the portion you will have to pay in the event of accident, before your insurance coverage steps in. It’s important not to carry a deductible that’s more than what you are able to pay. Your insurance company will not honor its portion of the claim until you’ve paid your deductible. However, the higher your deductible the lower your premium cost will be, so you need to find a
Always remember to ask your insurance broker for any available discounts. Quite often we forget to ask and they don’t seem to volunteer the information. A clean record on the current policy for a certain period of time, having your homeowner's coverage with the same insurer, taking a defensive driving course, having an accident free driving record, and having an approved anti-theft device will reduce your auto insurance rates.
The type of car you drive can also reduce your rates. Stay away from cars that have a high class rating. Rates vary among the different makes and models of vehicles. The different rates are based on the risk of accident, cost to repair, higher theft rates for a particular model and replacement costs such as with a new vehicle. So be sure your vehicle isn’t going to be in a category that increases your rates too much.
A safe driving record consisting of no accidents and no traffic violations will get you the most substantial discount. Most insurance companies are very good at recognizing good driving habits. These are the drivers they want to insure because their risk is much lower.
If the car is old and not very valuable, comprehensive insurance is probably not worth buying as it can quickly add up to more than you’d ever receive in the event of an accident. You can save up to 20% by eliminating collision insurance. You may want to opt not to carry collision insurance as well which can save you and additional 20%.
Check around to make sure you are getting the best auto rates you can. Online auto insurance shopping has taken the guess work out of buying insurance and you can very quickly see if you are being hosed. So if your insurance is coming due now is the time to start shopping!.
7 No Cost Tips to Market Your Business
7 No Cost and Low Cost Tips to Market Your Business
by Kathleen Gage
Marketing a business can be fun, exciting and creative. It can also be very frustrating and expensive if one doesn’t know what outcome they are looking for or how to evaluate cost effective methods of marketing.
Over the years people have come to know me for my unique ability to develop low cost and no cost strategies to market and promote a business, product or service. Strategies that have realized incredible returns.
Some of my successes have included:
- Before my last book was published I pre-sold over $8,000 in books
- Over 250 people registered for a recent seminar in less than 2 weeks and the cost to promote was under $25
- One company used my strategies for a career expo and made over $180,000 in consulting fees
- One speaker sold over $23,000 in product sales back of the room at a two hour seminar with strategies outlined in my program
I don’t share this to impress anyone, rather to impress upon you when using the right strategies for your market, you can realize some incredible results.
People have also come to know me as someone who is a stickler when it comes to putting systems in place. My marketing successes are a direct result of the systems I have implemented.
With a bit of forethought, planning and desire, you can successfully market your business in a very effective manner. Below are seven proven strategies sure to increase visibility, leads and sales.
1. Business Cards
Business cards are often one of the most underutilized tools in one’s marketing.
Use the front and back of your business card to gain full benefit. Depending on your market you can put some very valuable information on the back such as a sports schedule, emergency numbers, or special dates people want to remember.
Keep some in your wallet, your automobile, on your desk, and some at home. Be sure to carry them with you wherever you go and be willing to hand them out as opportunity presents itself.
Creatively distribute your card. When you eat out you can leave one with the tip.
If you borrow a library book, use one as a book mark. Hand them to clerks in stores who may know other people who could use your product or service.
When someone gives you their business card be sure to enter their information in your database. Send them a short note or email within 48 hours of meeting them to keep your name fresh in their mind.
2. Send a picture
A great way to keep your name fresh in a customer’s mind is to send them a picture of when they purchased a product or service from you.
Put a picture of a buyer’s auto purchase in a beautiful calendar. Likely, the proud owner of the vehicle will display the calendar for the next 365 days.
For specialty gift shops, when a customer makes a substantial purchase, have a picture taken with the shop owner. Frame the picture and send it to the customer.
Chances are very good the picture will be displayed proudly for friends and family to see.
A dentist who specializes in smile makeovers can easily arrange to have a professional makeup artist and photographer capture the patient’s beautiful new smile. No doubt the patient will be more than happy to show others their new look.
3. Associations
Associations particular to your market are a great resource for marketing. There are associations specific to virtually any industry, job type or business. A quick web search will likely show you how much is available.
A major opportunity within many organizations is the chance to network. Additionally, to make presentations. Along with presentations come publications.
Often, when you do a presentation, you will get a mention in the association newsletter, their Ezine and/or on their website.
In many cases, when an organization has a newsletter or Ezine, they welcome the presenter writing a press announcement for them. It saves them time and often assures you have a better chance of the information making it into the publication.
They may also welcome you writing an article for their publication or website.
This lends itself to pre-presentation visibility. Additionally, you will position yourself as an expert and increase credibility.
Most organizations have the following opportunities that can help you to gain visibility and do some very effective marketing:
-Newsletters
-Internet listings
-Links to you website
-Discounted advertising rates
-Networking opportunities
-Business referral services
-Special recognition events
-Education seminars
-Business and membership directories
In many cases you will need to be a member of the association to take advantage of the multiple marketing opportunities. In other cases membership is not necessary.
4. Committee Involvement
Committee involvement is a great way to give back to the association or community while building visibility for you and your business. In some cases, you may even want to get involved in a committee where you have little experience or knowledge. This will give you an opportunity to stretch yourself and meet and network with individuals you may not have otherwise had the chance to meet.
5. Contests and drawings
Contests are a favorite for many businesses such as restaurants or those that have high foot traffic. Contests are a great way to build your database quickly.
You are generating very hot leads when you have a contest with people who have already frequented your place of business. The key though is to do back -end marketing. Far too many businesses hold contests, get lots of names and do nothing with them. In this case, it is a complete waste of time to hold a contest.
You can advertise a contest to gain new foot traffic in your place of business.
Trade show booths are a great place to hold a contest. Pre-show marketing helps to generate traffic at your booth. Invite people to stop by booth # _____ (whatever your booth is) to enter to win. Creative contests can also generate free publicity.
6. Cross-promoting
Join with other companies who have products or services that compliment yours and promote each other. Let’s say you have a massage business. You could partner with a candle company to sell their candles to your massage clients. They can give out coupons for your massage business. Or the candle company can partner with a gift basket company. Cross-promoting is only limited by your imagination.
This can considerably cut down the cost of business promotion and allow each business to use promotion techniques that might be too expensive to implement alone.
7. Bonuses
Secure special offers from various businesses who want to share a similar market as you. When a customer buys a minimum amount they receive a bonus packet with the various offers from the other vendors. This is a win/win all the way around. The other vendors gain visibility, you have something extra to offer you customers and the customers get incredible value for their purchase.
Be aware of who you cross-promote and joint venture with. You want someone who will be equally committed to a campaign.
by Kathleen Gage
Marketing a business can be fun, exciting and creative. It can also be very frustrating and expensive if one doesn’t know what outcome they are looking for or how to evaluate cost effective methods of marketing.
Over the years people have come to know me for my unique ability to develop low cost and no cost strategies to market and promote a business, product or service. Strategies that have realized incredible returns.
Some of my successes have included:
- Before my last book was published I pre-sold over $8,000 in books
- Over 250 people registered for a recent seminar in less than 2 weeks and the cost to promote was under $25
- One company used my strategies for a career expo and made over $180,000 in consulting fees
- One speaker sold over $23,000 in product sales back of the room at a two hour seminar with strategies outlined in my program
I don’t share this to impress anyone, rather to impress upon you when using the right strategies for your market, you can realize some incredible results.
People have also come to know me as someone who is a stickler when it comes to putting systems in place. My marketing successes are a direct result of the systems I have implemented.
With a bit of forethought, planning and desire, you can successfully market your business in a very effective manner. Below are seven proven strategies sure to increase visibility, leads and sales.
1. Business Cards
Business cards are often one of the most underutilized tools in one’s marketing.
Use the front and back of your business card to gain full benefit. Depending on your market you can put some very valuable information on the back such as a sports schedule, emergency numbers, or special dates people want to remember.
Keep some in your wallet, your automobile, on your desk, and some at home. Be sure to carry them with you wherever you go and be willing to hand them out as opportunity presents itself.
Creatively distribute your card. When you eat out you can leave one with the tip.
If you borrow a library book, use one as a book mark. Hand them to clerks in stores who may know other people who could use your product or service.
When someone gives you their business card be sure to enter their information in your database. Send them a short note or email within 48 hours of meeting them to keep your name fresh in their mind.
2. Send a picture
A great way to keep your name fresh in a customer’s mind is to send them a picture of when they purchased a product or service from you.
Put a picture of a buyer’s auto purchase in a beautiful calendar. Likely, the proud owner of the vehicle will display the calendar for the next 365 days.
For specialty gift shops, when a customer makes a substantial purchase, have a picture taken with the shop owner. Frame the picture and send it to the customer.
Chances are very good the picture will be displayed proudly for friends and family to see.
A dentist who specializes in smile makeovers can easily arrange to have a professional makeup artist and photographer capture the patient’s beautiful new smile. No doubt the patient will be more than happy to show others their new look.
3. Associations
Associations particular to your market are a great resource for marketing. There are associations specific to virtually any industry, job type or business. A quick web search will likely show you how much is available.
A major opportunity within many organizations is the chance to network. Additionally, to make presentations. Along with presentations come publications.
Often, when you do a presentation, you will get a mention in the association newsletter, their Ezine and/or on their website.
In many cases, when an organization has a newsletter or Ezine, they welcome the presenter writing a press announcement for them. It saves them time and often assures you have a better chance of the information making it into the publication.
They may also welcome you writing an article for their publication or website.
This lends itself to pre-presentation visibility. Additionally, you will position yourself as an expert and increase credibility.
Most organizations have the following opportunities that can help you to gain visibility and do some very effective marketing:
-Newsletters
-Internet listings
-Links to you website
-Discounted advertising rates
-Networking opportunities
-Business referral services
-Special recognition events
-Education seminars
-Business and membership directories
In many cases you will need to be a member of the association to take advantage of the multiple marketing opportunities. In other cases membership is not necessary.
4. Committee Involvement
Committee involvement is a great way to give back to the association or community while building visibility for you and your business. In some cases, you may even want to get involved in a committee where you have little experience or knowledge. This will give you an opportunity to stretch yourself and meet and network with individuals you may not have otherwise had the chance to meet.
5. Contests and drawings
Contests are a favorite for many businesses such as restaurants or those that have high foot traffic. Contests are a great way to build your database quickly.
You are generating very hot leads when you have a contest with people who have already frequented your place of business. The key though is to do back -end marketing. Far too many businesses hold contests, get lots of names and do nothing with them. In this case, it is a complete waste of time to hold a contest.
You can advertise a contest to gain new foot traffic in your place of business.
Trade show booths are a great place to hold a contest. Pre-show marketing helps to generate traffic at your booth. Invite people to stop by booth # _____ (whatever your booth is) to enter to win. Creative contests can also generate free publicity.
6. Cross-promoting
Join with other companies who have products or services that compliment yours and promote each other. Let’s say you have a massage business. You could partner with a candle company to sell their candles to your massage clients. They can give out coupons for your massage business. Or the candle company can partner with a gift basket company. Cross-promoting is only limited by your imagination.
This can considerably cut down the cost of business promotion and allow each business to use promotion techniques that might be too expensive to implement alone.
7. Bonuses
Secure special offers from various businesses who want to share a similar market as you. When a customer buys a minimum amount they receive a bonus packet with the various offers from the other vendors. This is a win/win all the way around. The other vendors gain visibility, you have something extra to offer you customers and the customers get incredible value for their purchase.
Be aware of who you cross-promote and joint venture with. You want someone who will be equally committed to a campaign.
International Auto Insurance
If you are often driving into Mexico or Canada from the United States, then International Auto Insurance is the auto insurance to protect your car. The rates for international auto insurance are dependent on the destination country, as driving in Canada is considered safer than driving in Mexico.
Rates for International Auto Insurance
International Auto Insurance policies can be written for one month up to a year. They offer more flexibility in time period than normal policies for obvious reasons. Most travel is only temporary or for a short period of time. This type of international auto insurance coverage can be very expensive in comparison with normal US rates of coverage. The average international car insurance monthly premium for outside Canada and the US is around $386 for a vehicle below $10,000 value and up to $900 for a car valued above $45,000.
Coverage
When you are traveling in your own vehicle abroad, remember international auto insurance can be expensive, but relieve you of the unwanted stress of not being covered. Even though it is not illegal to drive without insurance in some foreign countries, it is still wise to protect your investment with an international car insurance policy from a carrier in the States. The coverage protects you from the other drivers on the road, and in some countries the international car insurance policy will protect you from theft as well. Check with your insurance company for the specifics of their international auto insurance.
Car Insurance for Women
Car insurance for women is a must-have for all female drivers. One way of looking at it is to consider women's car insurance as simply another way of being a responsible driver. None of us can predict what can happen and it IS better to be safe than sorry isn’t it? Furthermore, no matter how good a driver you are, you can never speak for other motorists around you.
Is Car Insurance For Women Cheaper than For A Man?
Car insurance for women has just as many benefits as for men. However, women's auto insurance is said to be cheaper than that for men because women have been found to be safer drivers. And because women are not as prone to accidents, insurance companies are assured that they are not risking a lot by offering women lower rates.
Indeed, insurance companies have researched on this, and driving statistics show the following:
- Men commit more motor vehicle-related crimes than women.
- Men are less likely to pass their driver’s licensing exam the first time than women.
- Motor vehicle-related accidents that men get into cause more damage than those that women get into.
Now, don’t think that this data shows that you are not likely to need women's car insurance. This is the wrong attitude to take. Rather, rejoice in the fact that it will cost you less than you think to get women's auto insurance.
Coverage Options for Car Insurance for Women
Car insurance for women has many coverage options. Unlike health insurance that covers only injuries or a life insurance that covers only disabled body parts, auto insurance can cover the different aspects of a motor vehicle accident; it can provide for you, the other driver involved in the incident (if there is one) and both of your cars.
Coverage Options
- Liability: This coverage protects you if you hurt someone or damage property in the course of an accident. This includes medical expenses for anyone in the accident. However, this coverage does not include injuries or damage to your own motor vehicle. Moreover, each state has its own liability requirements.
- Property damage: This is coverage for property you have damaged if you have been determined to have caused the damage. This generally has a limit of $100,000.00 but you have the option to increase this amount.
- Comprehensive: This coverage pays for the damages incurred by your car. This also covers storm damage, theft, vandalism and fire. This coverage is required for any auto loan. The rate for this coverage decreases as the deductible increases.
- Collision: This coverage pays for any damage to your vehicle if you are determined to have caused the accident. The cash value of your vehicle is paid if the vehicle is totaled. This coverage is required for auto loans.
- Uninsured / Underinsured motorist: This coverage pays you if the accident is not your fault, but the other driver is not insured or does not have sufficient coverage.
- Optional Coverage: There are ‘extras’ that you can choose to include in your women's car insurance policy. Examples are rental car coverage and emergency road service.
Saving Car Insurance for Young Driver
You were there for the first words, the first steps, and that first soccer goal. Now, it's time for another "first" for your child—the first car. But you've heard the stories about exorbitant premiums for teen drivers; so how do you find reasonable car insurance for a young driver?
Getting a driver's license is a rite of passage for a teenager, and getting that first car puts your teen on the road to independence. But the statistics on teen drivers are cautionary: Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers and 16-year-olds have the highest crash rate of all drivers in any age bracket. Knowing these statistics may not inspire you to hand over the car keys to your late model car, but making sure your teenager is driving a car equipped with all the latest safety features might mean all the difference—from affordable auto insurance to saving your teen's life.
In addition to the worry about your teen out on the highways and byways, your bank account might also have some issues when you purchase car insurance for a young driver. Adding a teen driver to your insurance policy can boost your insurance premium by 50 percent. Yet, with a little planning, you can cut those increases by half. According to Consumer Reports magazine, selecting the right vehicle for your teen is the key to making sure that your teen is not only protected while out on the road, but that your family has an affordable auto insurance policy.
Knowing that inexperienced drivers often get into fender benders and worse, parents traditionally give their teens the keys to the family clunker, or buy a "junker" car in anticipation of accidents to come. Yet, that could be exactly the wrong move to make when it comes to keeping the costs of car insurance for young drivers down. Because teens typically do not have much experience out on the road, Consumer Reports recommends getting young drivers into a vehicle with the advanced safety features such as antilock brakes and air bags that typically are not found in older model cars. Also, it doesn't hurt to do a little research to find out which cars have the best crash test results. As a bonus, if your insurance company knows your car is equipped with the latest in advanced car safety features, it can make a sizeable difference in your policy payment. And, don't just get liability insurance. Full collision coverage for a young driver is highly recommended.
Consumer Reports also confirms that bigger isn't necessarily better when it comes to outfitting your teenager with his or her first set of wheels. While bigger and heavier vehicles have better crash test results, larger vehicles can be unwieldy for inexperienced drivers. (Also, the poor fuel economy of larger vehicles can be a real budget buster for your child's wallet.) Large pick-up trucks and SUVs are popular with teens, but have high centers of gravity, which makes them prone to rollover accidents. When you couple teen driving statistics with the fact that larger vehicles have a higher rate of accidents than other vehicles, you can quickly see why these vehicles are not the best choice for your teenager.
Tips for Choosing an Auto Insurance Agent
Prior to the acquisition of your auto insurance, it is important for you to find out which agent is right for you. Even though shopping around for insurance is not an all that difficult task, but having a knowledgeable agent help you out would make the entire procedure far easier. And after acquiring your insurance, you can question your agent all you want instead of negotiating all of the red tape which is generally found in the insurance industry.
First of all you need to figure out whether you require an independent agent or an agent that functions directly for a particular insurance company. Remember that independent agents are not employed by a particular company and for that reason they have the tendency to present you with a wider range of products. They have the capability to offer you policies from a number of companies instead of simply focusing on one. An agent working for a particular company can only show you products offered by it.
There are chances that you would want to use an independent insurance agent. You must assess quite a few before deciding which one fulfills all of your needs. You must question him about the professional associations he belongs to as well as the designation he holds. This would give you a fair idea whether he has good information about the industry or not.
Secondly, the agent of your choice must be an active advisor. You might want to put this in writing in your agreement for your files. You must make sure that your agent has the capability to answer all of your insurance questions, no matter how small they may seem to you.
Your agent should further be knowledgeable. Make sure that you ask a lot of questions before actually signing up for the policy. You have to ask detailed questions about the policy, for example how a specific type of claim would work. But what you further need to make sure is that you know the answer to the question yourself before asking. This will help you learn whether or not the agent is knowledgeable about the policy.
Remember that you and your agent will be working together on a regular basis so you need to choose one who you are comfortable talking with. Eventually, you must choose an agent who is ready to provide you everything in writing and not just make you take his words.
8 Things You Should Know About Auto Insurance
How Knowing More Can Help You
Trying to understand auto insurance can be as tricky and confusing as trying to untie the Gordian knot. (We hear the knotty Gordian problem can be solved with a sword.) However, some "insider" knowledge can help you understand your options and what you can do to save money and get the most out of your auto insurance.
1) Some of the most helpful coverages are the cheapest.
Auto insurance may be expensive, but if you're already spending a lot, shouldn't you get a lot? Optional coverages such as gap coverage, roadside assistance, rental reimbursement, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and comprehensive coverage can provide a lot of protection for a little price increase. Comprehensive coverage is usually the most expensive of these coverages, but is still usually about half the price of collision coverage and a third the price of liability coverage.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is especially important, considering the benefits it offers and the number of uninsured drivers on the road, particularly during this period of economic hardship. Take a look at your coverage options. Paying a little more now may save you a lot in the future.
2) Many factors can affect your car insurance rate.
Auto insurance companies use many different criteria when evaluating an insurance application during a process called underwriting. Each car insurance company has many guidelines regarding which groups of drivers they want to accept and how much they will charge those groups they consider a greater risk. The guidelines are different for each company, meaning that two companies comparing the same driver can arrive at vastly different conclusions.
During the underwriting process, car insurance applicants are placed in a group based on how much money and how many claims the insurance company believes it may have to pay. Underwriting is done automatically by software behind the scenes. At this time, the insurance company will look at motor vehicle records to see how many accidents or tickets a driver has received. Many insurance companies also use an insurance history report to see if the driver has made any car insurance claims, and how much money was paid. Although accidents and violations can only affect the rates you receive for three years, many companies will look back five or more years when deciding if they want to offer you insurance. In addition, many auto insurance companies look at the credit history of the applicant. Although they use credit history to determine which group an applicant belongs to, they don't actually look at a credit report.
3) Insurance prices vary (a lot) by company.
You've probably seen commercials saying you can save money by switching to a certain car insurance company. How can so many companies make this claim? The reason is that "auto insurance is a highly competitive business and one of the most effective ways to reduce insurance costs is simply to shop around," according to Jeanne Salvatore, senior vice president of the Insurance Information Institute. "Drivers should look for an insurance company that will provide a good price along with excellent service."
Prices for the same policy from the same company, however, are set by law. They are approved by the state and can't be changed by an agent, so you can't get a better price for the same policy simply by going to a different agent or trying to negotiate the price. The best plan is to decide what coverages and options you need and comparison shop to get the best price.
4) If you let your policy lapse, you'll pay more in the long run.
Most insurance companies view drivers who are licensed but don't have insurance as risky or irresponsible. Because of this, if you let your policy lapse, you'll probably pay more when you go to buy car insurance. To avoid this, if you don't want to pay for insurance or are planning to let your policy expire because you want to switch companies, make sure to purchase car insurance before your current policy is cancelled.
5) Higher deductibles can lower your premium.
Insurance prices are based on how much money the insurance company believes it could have to pay. If you agree to pay for a larger portion of your own damages by raising your deductibles, your car insurance company automatically knows they won't have to pay as much for your claims. Because of this, they will usually give you a lower premium. If you decide to raise your deductibles to save money, be sure you can afford to pay the deductible if you have to make a claim.
6) Insurance discounts can make a difference.
Most insurance companies offer auto insurance discounts for things like a safe driving record, car safety features, anti-theft devices, electronic payments, payment in full, and more. Make sure you're getting rewarded for being a safe driver and for having a safe car by shopping around for car insurance that appreciates your record.
7) Coverage affects what you pay.
The majority of your car insurance premium generally goes toward the legally-required liability portion of your policy. It's typically not a good idea to reduce this portion in an attempt to save money, because you'll be responsible for any amount of damages above your policy limits. However, other coverages, although generally helpful, could be reduced or eliminated to lower your premium. If you have an older car that's not worth very much, or if you won't have a problem paying for a new car, collision and comprehensive coverages may not make economic sense. Talk to your car insurance company or agent about the best options for you.
8) The car you drive can affect your auto insurance rates.
The Highway Loss Data Institute compiles insurance accident statistics for most types of cars. Many insurance companies use data like this when setting prices on your insurance. For example, if the car you drive is very expensive to repair, the company is going to have to pay more if you get in an accident. Conversely, if the car you drive is extremely safe and protects occupants well, your insurance company will not have to pay as much if you're involved in a crash. If your model of car is generally less likely to be stolen, your car insurance company is less likely to have to pay to replace it. All of these car related factors can raise or lower the auto insurance quotes you receive, so it makes sense to keep insurance in mind when purchasing a car. Of course, since rates are based on much more than just the car you drive, your overall rate may be more or less than someone driving the same car.
Do you have any questions or comments? Please let us know.
Insurance.com's Most Stolen Car Facts
Is your vehicle HOT, HOT, HOT? It just might be according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau's (NICB) Annual Hot Wheels report, listed below. Take a look; you might be very surprised to see which automobiles thieves are going for and which they are not.
Curious why older models top the list over newer, flashier vehicles? "Older cars are often stolen because the parts for these models start to become harder and harder to come by, making the pieces more profitable for thieves. This is why we often see a clustering effect with the same make and style of vehicles being stolen year after year," states one NICB official. "Vehicle thieves also follow market trends and target the most popular vehicles because they provide the best market for stolen vehicle parts and illegal export to other countries."
Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles:- 1995 Honda Civic
- 1989 Toyota Camry
- 1991 Honda Accord
- 1994 Dodge Caravan
- 1994 Chevrolet Full Size C/K 1500 Pickup
- 1997 Ford F150 Series
- 2003 Dodge Ram Pickup
- 1990 Acura Integra
- 1988 Toyota Pickup
- 1991 Nissan Sentra
Vehicle Theft and the Impact it has on your Auto Insurance Premium
You might be wondering what effect reports like this have on your auto insurance rate. "Many insurance companies set their auto insurance rates according to the industry's loss history," says Lou Geremia, President of Insurance.com. "As a result, vehicles that have a high-theft risk will more than likely be charged a higher auto insurance rate. However, many insurance companies offer discounts for automatic antitheft devices, which can help keep your auto insurance rate down."
Tips to Help Guard Your Wheels
To help shield your vehicle from being stolen, the NICB encourages everyone to follow its "layered approach" to auto theft protection by employing simple, low-cost suggestions to make your car less attractive to thieves. These four layers of protection include:
Layer #1 - Common Sense
An unlocked vehicle with the key in the ignition is an open invitation to any thief, regardless of which anti-theft device you use. It is always best to lock your car even if you are only parked for a brief period of time.Layer #2 - Warning Device
Having a visible or audible device that alerts thieves that your vehicle is protected is another good way to ensure that your car remains where you left it. Popular second layer devices include:
- Audible alarms
- Steering column collars
- Steering wheel/Brake pedal lock
- Brake locks
- Wheel locks
- Tire locks/Tire deflators
- Theft deterrent decals
- Identification markers in or on vehicle
- Window etching
- Laminated glass
Layer #3 - Immobilizing Device
Another good method is having a device that prevents thieves from bypassing your ignition and hot-wiring the vehicle. Some of these electronic gadgets have computer chips in the ignition keys. Others inhibit the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine until a hidden button or switch is activated. Recommended third layer devices include:
- Smart keys
- Fuse cut-offs
- Kill switches
- Starter, ignition and fuel disablers
Layer # 4 - Tracking Device
The most effective safeguard against car thieves is the vehicle-tracking device. A tracking system emits a signal to your local police station or monitoring station once the vehicle has been reported stolen. Tracking devices, such as OnStar, are very effective in helping authorities recover stolen vehicles.
Take action
If by chance your vehicle does get stolen, you will want to contact your local police department immediately. Make sure to have the following information on hand:
- Year, make, model, and color of your car
- Your license plate number
- VIN (Make sure to have your VIN number in a file or secure spot.)
- Approximate time when the car was stolen
- Location where the car was parked
- Names of eye witnesses, if any
Next, you will need to contact your auto insurance company. To help expedite your claim make sure to have your policy number and details of the incident ready to give your auto insurance agent. Typically insurance companies have up to 30 days to settle a stolen vehicle claim.
Tips For Buying a Car
Buying a new car is an exciting experience, though it can be complicated. There`s a lot of choice out there, and it can be intimidating. You want to make sure you`re getting the best deal, and that you end up with the car that`s right for you.
Here are a few ideas and thoughts that might help.
General Trends
Today, fuel efficiency is a major concern. Manufacturers have taken the high gas prices to heart, and are producing models that promise better mileage. Indeed, gas-electric hybrid cars are in high demand, and some auto insurance companies are offering enticing discounts for hybrid cars.
Before You Buy
Think about your needs. Got a big family? Check out the safest vehicles best suited for your clan. Do a lot of driving? You`ll probably want a car that`s comfortable to drive, balanced with reliability and good gas mileage. Think about what you`ll be using your vehicle for, and shop accordingly.
Do some research before you even leave the house. Check the internet for information on safety and reliability on various models. You might have your heart set on a particular manufacturer, but don`t let that distract you from the facts and figures that determine how good their cars really are (or aren`t).
Check your current car`s Blue Book value before you go shopping - you may be surprised to find out that dealers consider your car to be worth much less when it comes to trading it in. Be aware of its true value, and you could save money.
More and more vehicles are coming with technology packages that include GPS systems, satellite radios and more. These can be very tempting, but quite expensive. Many of these features will require monthly fees, so keep that in mind. However, having systems integrated into your vehicle right from the factory is certainly easier than adding them later.
What can you really afford to pay each month for your car? Always have your budget in mind, and consider that your monthly expenses for your car should include gas, maintenance and insurance. Stretching your bank account an extra fifty dollars a month for a nicer model may cost you even more if the gas mileage is worse, while a more reliable car could end up saving you money.
When You`re Shopping
Not only is comparison shopping a great way to find the best auto insurance rates, it could save you thousands of dollars when looking for a car. Compare car prices at different dealerships, or online at various sites (including the manufacturers` own website), and you might be very surprised at the difference.
Consider arranging financing for your car before you visit the dealership. Talk to your bank, or credit union. You might be able to get a better interest rate from a different source, or at least have more control over your repayment schedule. In order to do this, you`ll need to have a very good idea of the car you want and how much it will cost. Bear in mind to include money for any optimal packages you wish to include in the vehicle.
Know what you want - be aware that some sales people will try to steer you to the cars they want to sell. If you end up with a better deal, or different car, and that's alright for you, then good. But don't be strong-armed into a vehicle you don't want. For instance, if you want to buy a SUV, don't be talked into buying a truck.
When taking a car out for a test drive, some dealers might ask to get a photocopy of your license before you go. You may want to consider not doing this. Instead, request that one of their staff accompany you on the test drive, and hang on to your license. Some dealers might take the opportunity to run a credit report on you while you are gone using the information on your license which could this negatively impact your credit score.
If you don't like how you're being treated, or if you have any doubts at all about the salesperson or dealership, just leave. You'll quickly find the dealer that's right for you, and soon after, you'll be driving the car that's right for you, too.
Top 10 Auto Insurance Myths
The color of my car determines my auto insurance rate. My credit score has no bearing on my insurance premium. I have auto insurance coverage so my new car is already covered… right? Maybe not! Below is a list of fallacies many car owners believe and drive by each day. The truth just might make you change course.
Myth #10: "No-fault insurance means it's not my fault!"
False. Basically, no-fault insurance means that your insurance company pays for your damages regardless of who's at fault.
Myth #9: "The color of my car affects my insurance rate."
False. The color of your car does not impact your car insurance rates. What does influence your rate is your vehicle's year, make, model, body type, and engine size, along with your credit history and driving record.
Myth #8: "If I lend my car to a friend and that friend is in an accident, his or her insurance company will pay for the damages."
False. Your car, your responsibility! However, your friend's insurance could act as excess insurance if the damages exceed your policy's limits. And guess what, even though you weren't present at the time of the accident, it will go on your insurance record and your insurance premium could go up.
Myth #7: "My insurance rate is set by the government."
False. The government does not set your car insurance rate. Your state's insurance department only regulates the rates car insurance companies are allowed to set. Where you live, your credit score, marital status and your driving record is what actually affects your premium.
Myth #6: "I recently paid my insurance premium, so the new car I just purchased is covered."
True, up to a point. Most insurance policies require that the policyholder notify the car insurance company or agent within a specified number of days after purchase.
Myth #5: "It's a fact. Males under the age of 25 pay more for auto insurance."
True and false. Males under 25 years old usually pay more for car insurance than female drivers under 25. However, across the board, teenagers and seniors pay more for auto insurance, in large part because these age groups are typically involved in more automobile accidents.
Myth #4: "My credit score has no effect on my insurance rate."
False. Your credit score really does matter! Many Insurance companies take your credit score into consideration when you want to purchase, change, or renew your auto insurance coverage.
Myth #3: "Even without comprehensive coverage, I'm still covered for theft, windstorms, hail and deer accidents."
False. Many drivers believe that if they only purchase collision insurance—which covers damage to your car resulting from driving accidents—that they will also be covered for incidents that involve vandalism, hail, animal accidents and fires. That simply is not true. You need to purchase both collision and comprehensive coverage in order to fully protect your vehicle from all of these situations.
Myth #2: "My personal auto insurance covers both my personal and business use of my car."
Be careful. It might be able to cover it, but you need to check with your car insurance company. If you occasionally use your personal car for business purposes such as transporting clients, going to and from meetings or hauling business equipment, then you will more than likely need to extend your personal car insurance to cover your business use. Plus, if your employees use their car while working for you, you will want to also obtain a separate non-owned car insurance policy.
Myth #1: "I've never had or been involved in a car accident, so I don't need automobile insurance."
False. Some drivers are lucky enough to avoid accidents. However, car insurance is the best protection you can have in the event of an auto accident. You are also legally required to have some form of auto insurance, and failing to do so can carry strict penalties.
Insuring a Used Car
March 5, 2007
A standard auto insurance policy is a package of different kinds of coverage. There is generally some flexibility in terms of both the types and amounts of coverage you select.However, practically every state has enacted insurance laws that require drivers to carry at least some auto insurance. Many states even require that you present proof of insurance before you register a car. So the short answer to the question is that you will probably need to
insure your car, regardless of its value.
Every state requires that drivers carry liability insurance.
The liability coverage section of an auto insurance policy provides financial protection from liability claims against you when you (or certain other people) cause an accident that results in bodily injuries to other people and/or damage to their property. Every state has mandatory minimum levels of coverage in this area. The rationale behind such laws is that at-fault drivers should be able to compensate victims who suffer accident-related losses. But the required minimums in most states don't even come close to covering the costs of a serious accident. Consequently, if you wish to be adequately protected from liability claims, your liability coverage should probably exceed your state's requirements.
Other coverages are required in some states and optional in others.
Medical payments coverage and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage are two such coverages. Medical payments coverage covers medical expenses incurred by you, your family members, and your non-family passengers. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage covers losses you and others suffer as a result of an accident caused by a driver who either has no insurance or insufficient insurance. If buying these coverages is optional in your state, base your decision on your needs, circumstances, and other factors. Consult your insurance agent for more information.
Collision and comprehensive insurance is optional in virtually every state.
The collision and comprehensive section of your policy covers physical damage to your own vehicle resulting from collisions and a variety of other causes (e.g., fire, falling objects). It may also cover losses associated with theft. However, your car's value plays a big part in assessing your need for this type of coverage. It may not be cost-effective if your vehicle is worth less than $1,000 because you'll have to satisfy a deductible, and the most you'll receive (even if your car is totaled) will be its actual value (i.e., after depreciation). That's not much, especially taking into account the premiums you would have been paying for coverage.
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