December 26th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Car Insurance | No Comments »
When searching for a FL auto insurance policy, check the rating of local companies using rating organizations such as Standard & Poor’s or Fitch Ratings. Research the reputation and financial standings of your future Florida car insurance provider.
The top Florida auto insurance companies are 21st Century/AIG, Allstate, Farmers, Liberty Mutual, and Nationwide. These major insurance companies provide private policies for you and your family, as well as policies for motorcycles and antique cars. Be sure to check out which discounts you may be able to receive on your Florida auto insurance policy. Below are brief summaries of each company. A complete list of detailed Florida insurance company reviews can be found at QuoteFL.com.
21st Century Insurance/AIG Auto Insurance
In 2007, 21st Century Insurance Company and AIG merged to form one company that can provide Floridians with more auto policies and insurance benefits. They provide coverage to 3.5 million vehicles nationwide. In 2006 the company started providing Floridians with auto insurance policies and has become a major provider within the state. They do not deny insurance to any Floridian based on their location or credit score.
Allstate
Allstate receives “superior” ratings from A.M. Best and is a “Fortune 100” company. Concerned with the specific needs of Florida residents, Allstate provides an online summary of what policies are required and what policies are more popular in Florida, making it easy for Florida residents to understand their auto insurance needs.
Farmers Insurance
Farmers Insurance Group of Companies started in 1928 as an automobile insurance provider. It is the nation’s third largest insurer of private policy automobile insurance. Farmers Auto Insurance division provides Florida policyholders with a personal local agent to assist them in specializing their auto insurance policy to suit their lifestyle.
Liberty Mutual
Liberty Mutual is the nation’s 8th largest provider of automobile insurance. J.D. Power and Associates has recognized Liberty Mutual for “Call Center Service Excellence”, an acknowledgment that policyholders truly appreciate when dealing with placing claims or addressing billing concerns.
Nationwide
9 out of 10 Nationwide customers would recommend the company to a friend or family member. They offer abundant discounts that will provide almost anyone with savings on their auto insurance policy. Nationwide policies contain all the basic forms of coverage that you will need in the state of Florida, as well as additional optional enhancements that can keep you safer and financially secure.
*Remember: Many web sites now allow you to compare rates from multiple companies in a matter of minutes from your home computer. Only Licensed Florida auto insurance companies can give you a policy that will abide by Florida car insurance laws, providing you with the appropriate Florida no fault auto insurance regulations.
November 20th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Health Insurance | 1 Comment »
BlueCross BlueShield of Florida is the largest and oldest Florida health insurance company, insuring 4 million Floridians and reaching 7 million more through its subsidiaries. BlueCross BlueShield of Florida provides health insurance to 30% of the residents of Florida. Located in Jacksonville, BlueCross BlueShield of Florida also provides jobs throughout the state. To show their dedication to the state, BlueCross BlueShield of Florida also runs the Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida, a program that provides grants to groups that promote healthy living in Florida. The Blue Foundation recently announced an $8 million initiative to fight childhood obesity in Florida.
BlueCross BlueShield of Florida has three divisions: Health, Specialty and Business. The Health division offers customary Florida medical insurance through HMOs, PPOs or multi-options plans. The Specialty division provides dental coverage, life insurance, disability coverage and long-term care policies. The Business division works with the government to offer Medicare programs and supplemental Medicare packages. The company now also carries Health Savings Accounts and low-cost packages.
For individuals and families under the age of 65, BlueCross BlueShield of Florida offers Predictable Cost Plans, HSA Compatible Plans, Lower Cost Plans and Limited Benefit Plans. Predictable Costs plans offer predictable co-payments, deductibles and co-insurance costs. HSA Compatible Plans give you a high deductible and then work with health savings accounts to save you from heavy tax dollars on medical expenses. Lower Cost Plans have lower co-payments and lower premiums while giving you higher out-of-pocket limits. Limited Benefit Plans are low-cost because they only cover you in the event of a catastrophic medical emergency and do not charge for medical services that you most likely will not use.
BlueCross BlueShield of Florida has also created programs that target preventative health and wellness to offer rewards for healthy living. One program, Health Dialogue, is a support service that provides members with health coaches via telephone and web information to answer medical related questions without paying a visit to their health care provider. Other programs include Stay Fit for Sports, Health Links, Care Program for Medicare Members and MyActiveRewards.
In June 2008, BlueCross BlueShield of Florida received an outstanding award from J.D. Power and Associates, ranking them the “Highest Member Satisfaction Among Commercial Health Care Plans in Florida”. This is the second year in a row that BlueCross BlueShield Florida has taken this honor. They also hold the highest numerical rating in the region for a positive health plan experience.
November 19th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Health Insurance | No Comments »
Humana-One has tailored health insurance programs specifically for Florida residents, keeping it simple with three basic plans to choose from. Their website is user-friendly, making it easy to find information about their variety of health insurance plans within seconds. Humana-One’s “Plan Pointer” is an online tool that can help assist consumers in finding the right plan for their health needs. Their site also offers transparency tools such as “Compare Hospitals”, the “Cost Estimator” and “Physician Profile” which can help you make service decisions before selecting a provider.
Humana-One offers Florida residents three personal health insurance plans to choose from, each catering to different healthcare needs. All three plans have various options available to truly fit the plan to your lifestyle.
Humana-One Portrait
This program provides benefits similar to those provided by an employer-based group health care plan. This program is designed to minimize health risks and offers personalized service. In this plan, there is an extensive PPO network that may include doctors and healthcare providers that you already use. They pay for 80% of in-network medical costs and emergency room visits while paying 100% of routine in-network doctor’s visits and pharmacy costs after co-payments and deductibles have been reached.
Humana-One Autograph
This program is designed to be a very personalized package, allowing you to find the right combination of benefits and features. This is also designed for those with new families and new careers. Autograph can be combined with a health savings account to provide savings in tax benefits. You can choose from either 80% or 100% cost coverage after deductible.
Mg Monogram
The Monogram program is designed for those who want minimal coverage and low payments—a “just in case” plan. This is perfect for recent college graduates or those who rarely visit the doctor. Once the deductible is reached, they pay 100% of in-network costs and include benefits for preventative care and prescription medications.
Humana-One also offers discounts for members, which can save you hundreds throughout the year. They offer discounts on eye-care and vision services, including a 35% discount on frames. You can save up to 25% on OTC and prescription medications and save 30% on natural medical services such as acupuncture and chiropractics.
One of the benefits of Humana-One is its nation-wide coverage. Across the US, Humana-One has 350,000 medical providers, 3,000 hospitals and 50,000 pharmacies. If you move to another participating state, you can keep your coverage. This is beneficial to Floridians that do not spend their entire year in state.
November 19th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Health Insurance | No Comments »
Assurant provides 1 million people with health insurance nationwide. They provide health insurance for individuals, small groups, short-term needs and students. They also provide health savings accounts and health reimbursement arrangements. Use Assurant’s website to receive a free health insurance quote in a matter of minutes.
Assurant guarantees an $8 million lifetime benefit maximum, worldwide 24-hour coverage, extensive networks of doctors and healthcare providers, no required referrals to see specialists, and a guaranteed rate for the first year.
Assurant is the creator of the health savings account, a tax-free account that can provide hundreds of dollars in savings. The contributions that you make in to your health savings account can be deducted from your taxable income. There is no tax on withdrawals for medical expenses either. The funds continue to roll over yearly, providing a growing investment for you and your family. Assurant also provides online tools to manage your health savings account.
Assurant keeps it simple and offers two plans for families that have routine health care needs and families that use health insurance for health emergencies. Opting for a plan with a low deductible and low co-payment can provide savings for the family that makes doctor’s visits and uses routine care. An Assurant plan with a high deductible, no co-payment and no co-insurance can facilitate savings for the family or individual that rarely goes to the doctor. In their case, they would pay a higher out-of-pocket maximum. Assurant also offers three “Affordable Health Access Plans” that have different levels of benefits to suit your needs. One of those plans does not even require any health questions to be answered before approval.
For each plan, Assurant has adjustable deductibles. Individuals can choose from $500 to $10,000, families can choose from $1000 to $15000, lifetime maximum benefits can vary from $2 million to $8 million, prescription drug deductible can be adjusted from $0 to $500 and co-payments can be anywhere from $20 to $40.
Assurant provides all policy holders with no limit on prescription drugs, worldwide coverage, $8 million lifetime benefit maximum, no limits on staying in the ICU, use of air or ground ambulance and no required referrals.
As an affordable alternative to insurance, Assurant also offers discount plans. Individuals and families can save anywhere between 10% and 60% on prescriptions, dental, vision and medical services. Regular insurance policy holders also receive a discount on their premium for being smoke-free.
November 19th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Health Insurance | No Comments »
Aetna provides health insurance to 1,300,000 Florida residents, offering healthcare, dental, pharmacy, group life, disability, long-term care and employee benefits. Most plans are offered through employer-paid insurance or Medicare. There are about 25,000 Aetna doctors participating in Florida as well as 208 Florida hospitals.
The National Committee for Quality Assurance has awarded Aetna US Healthcare of Florida with its highest rating for their HMO and Point-of Service Plan, a distinction that was only given to 54% of commercial health plans nationally.
Aetna offers individual health insurance plans in Florida, providing open access plans and point-of-service plans to members. Plans are available for individuals, families and sole proprietors. Some of the plans that Aetna offers Floridians are:
Managed Choice Open Access High Deductible
This plan requires lower monthly contributions and a high deductible, paying 20% of fees for visits and services. This plan allows you to open a tax-free health savings account, or HSA.
Managed Choice Open Access
This plan offers lower deductibles, co-payments and expenses. You pay high monthly premiums and then benefit from excellent prescription coverage.
First Dollar Managed Choice Open Access
This plan offers moderate premiums, moderate out-of-pocket maximum and excellent prescription coverage.
POS Open Access High Deductible
This plan requires lower monthly contributions, a high deductible and then no charge for most visits and services. Health savings accounts are compatible with this plan.
POS Open Access
This plan has lower deductibles, co-payments and expenses. There are higher monthly premiums and great prescription coverage.
Preventative and Hospital Care
These plans have low premiums, moderate annual deductibles and high out-of-pocket maximums.
First Dollar POS Open Access
This plans offers moderate premiums, moderate out-of-pocket maximum and great quality prescription drug coverage.
The Vital Savings Program provides Floridians with affordable medical services, targeting the uninsured and underinsured residents of the state. Florida residents are also offered discounts on their dental insurance, prescriptions and long-term care services. Aetna is one of three health insurance carriers in Florida to be officially considered a “Discount Medical Plan Organization”. Aetna offers Medicare supplement packages as well as Medicare prescription drug packages.
Aetna offers two dental plans for those under 50 and for those 50 and over: The Aetna Individual Advantage Dental PPO plan and the Aetna Individual Advantage Dental PPO Plan Plus. Both plans cover preventative care services, basic care and major services such as crowns or dentures.
November 11th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Car Insurance | No Comments »
The first notable bit of information is that 9 out of 10 Nationwide customers would recommend the company to a friend or family member. They offer abundant discounts that will provide almost anyone with savings on their auto insurance policy. Nationwide policies contain all the basic forms of coverage that you will need in the state of Florida, as well as additional optional enhancements that can keep you safer and financially secure.
Nationwide policies protect your car through comprehensive coverage, collision coverage, towing and labor, gap coverage and rental reimbursement. Nationwide also protects you and others through policies that cover injury and property damage, medical expenses and family compensation. They also provide personal injury and no-fault protection, which are required in the state of Florida.
Nationwide uses Blue Ribbon Claims Service which is accessible 24-hours a day. If your car is damaged and you choose a Blue Ribbon Claims repair shop, then all repairs will come in a written guarantee. All Blue Ribbon Claims repair shops are pre-screened and pre-qualified so that you can trust the level of service. When you bring your car to a Blue Ribbon Claims repair shop, you can view your car repair details online and even receive updates about the progress.
Nationwide provides customers with numerous discounts to save them money on their monthly premiums. When you combine your Nationwide auto insurance and home insurance policy, whether it is a condo or apartment, you are instantly rewarded with a discounted rate. If you insure more than one car with Nationwide, you receive a massive 20% discount on your rates. You can save an additional 10% if you are accident free for five years and have at least five years of driving experience. You receive 15% off when you have a student in the home with a “B” average or better. Save 15% when you insure with Nationwide for five years or more and receive 5% off if you have been insured with Nationwide for at least three years. Save 3% if you are part of an affiliated organization and save even more money when you have additional safety features in your car such as anti-theft or frontal airbag systems.
Nationwide uses what they call a “Nationwide Review” to help you assess the type of coverage you want and need for your Florida automobile insurance policy. This review assesses what type of discounts you can qualify for, which deductibles you should choose and also which auto insurance policies are best for your budget and needs. Nationwide feels that it is good to get a new assessment annually with “Nationwide Review”, especially if you have had a major life change, such as marriage or retirement.
November 11th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Car Insurance | No Comments »
In 2007, 21st Century Insurance Company and AIG merged to form one company that can provide Floridians with more auto policies and insurance benefits. They provide coverage to 3.5 million vehicles nationwide. In 2006 the company started providing Floridians with auto insurance policies and has become a major provider within the state. They do not deny insurance to any Floridian based on their location or credit score. Florida residents can also make their own choices about where they seek repairs that are reimbursed.
21st Century is an active participant in communities where they provide policies. For six years they have been educating communities about the importance of child safety seats, as motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of death for children ages 2-14. The Florida Highway Patrol, as well as the State of Florida itself, supports this program.
21st Century boasts many benefits to their customers that leading competitors do not provide. If your new or leased car is totaled within the first year of purchase, 21st Century will compensate you with the full price of the car, for no additional cost. They extend your policy coverage to any other driver that you designate on your policy that will be driving your car—at no additional cost. Towing and emergency roadside assistance are included in every policy at no additional cost. They provide temporary coverage for student children that return home for part of the year or during holidays, at no additional cost. 21st Century has a network of reliable repair centers and auto body facilities that guarantee repairs for your car. They have an accident and traffic forgiveness program at no additional cost for long-term customers. They also do not require a membership or brokerage fee.
21st Century offers 24-hour customer service and sales via the web or telephone. 21st also provides online quotes in minutes, next-day coverage when a policy is bought online and licensed representative available 24-hours a day. Policyholders can pay their bills online, amend policies online and file claims online. 21st is also recognized for its support of Spanish speaking customers and has a bilingual website as well. Any one competitor does not offer all of these advantages.
21st Century uses Foremost as their affiliate to provide motorcycle insurance to Florida residents. Their policies are affordable and loaded with coverage options, hopefully encouraging Florida motorcyclists to purchase the optional insurance.
November 11th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Car Insurance | No Comments »
Liberty Mutual is the nation’s 8th largest provider of automobile insurance. J.D. Power and Associates has recognized Liberty Mutual for “Call Center Service Excellence”, an acknowledgment that policyholders truly appreciate when dealing with placing claims or addressing billing concerns.
Liberty Mutual has many helpful online tools and resources for policyholders. Your claims can now be reported online from your home computer. This Eservice site saves loads of time even though Liberty Mutual has an excellent customer service call center. This allows claims to be placed 24 hours a day, which is extremely convenient. Liberty Mutual has also created a site specifically for teen drivers. This site provides resources and online tools for teens and their families so that teens may become safer and more knowledgeable drivers.
Liberty Mutual’s premier auto insurance product is Liberty Guard Auto Insurance. This policy provides basic coverage as well as added enhancements that can ensure your safety and financial wellness at the event of an accident. Liberty Guard provides:
Personal Liability Protection
This package covers all necessary insurance requirements for Floridians. It includes personal injury protection that exceeds bodily injury protection policies. This policy covers any type of recreational vehicle that you may use such as a boat, camp, home or trailer. You would be provided with defense against lawsuits and coverage that extends throughout the globe.
Liability Coverage
This coverage will cover the cost of your damages, according to your policy limits. It also covers legal expenses if a suit is filed against you.
Medical Payments Coverage
This covers the cost of medical expenses when someone else is injured in your car or for the funeral expenses in the event of death. This coverage offers compensation for up to three years following the accident.
Collision Coverage
This provides protection when your car is hit by another car, if you hit another car or object or if your car rolls over.
Towing and Labor
This coverage is really helpful when you need it, paying the cost of towing every time you need it.
For added convenience, Liberty Mutual offers many additional perks for policyholders. Representatives can be reached after business hours using the customer service call center. This 24-hour service can assist with claims or policy information. All policies are yearlong policies; there will never be a rate increase in less than a year’s time. Payments can be deducted automatically out of your checking account each month, saving you from having to remember to make payments. Also, every policy is equipped with 24-hour emergency roadside assistance.
November 11th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Car Insurance | 1 Comment »
Allstate receives “superior” ratings from A.M. Best and is a “Fortune 100” company. Concerned with the specific needs of Florida residents, Allstate provides an online summary of what policies are required and what policies are more popular in Florida, making it easy for Florida residents to understand their auto insurance needs.
Allstate offers coverage to Floridians that is not required by state law but that are popular amongst auto insurance policy holders for their safety and financial wellbeing. According to Allstate, Floridians most often choose to insure for $100,000 to $300,000 when it comes to bodily injury liability, but the law does not require this. Allstate offers Bodily Injury Liability coverage, Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury coverage, Medical Payments coverage, Collision coverage and comprehensive coverage.
Allstate’s “Your Choice Auto” policy provides basic auto insurance coverage, extra enhancements for your safety and finances as well as rewards for driving practices. They give you many incentives to be a safe driver. “Your Choice Auto” offers accident forgiveness, which keeps your rates stationary in the event of an accident. “Safe Driving Bonus” gives you a check of 5% of your premium every six months that are accident-free. Enjoy $100 off of your deductible each year that you are accident-free as well. With the “Your Choice Auto” policy, if your car is totaled within the first year of ownership or leasing, Allstate will compensate you with a new car–not the depreciated value.
Allstate rewards policyholders with numerous possible discounts off of their premium rate. The “Premier” is awarded when you are accident-free and violation-free for three years while the “Premier Plus” discount comes after five safe years. Safety features on your car can also give you a discounted rate, such as passive restraint systems, anti-lock brakes and anti-theft devices. Also look for discounts if you have a good student in the home, if you are retired, if you drive a new car or an economy car, if you drive a utility vehicle or a farm vehicle and if you have a student in the family that lives away at school.
Allstate is motivated to keep teen drivers safe as well as others that are in their path on the roads. Allstate clarifies the stages of Florida’s graduated driver licensing program so that parents are aware of their new driver’s limitations. Allstate also provides a downloadable “Teen Driver Agreement” for parents and teens to personalize according to their own family’s safety agreements.
November 11th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Car Insurance | No Comments »
Farmers Insurance Group of Companies started in 1928 as an automobile insurance provider. It is the nation’s third largest insurer of private policy automobile insurance. Farmers Auto Insurance division provides Florida policyholders with a personal local agent to assist them in specializing their auto insurance policy to suit their lifestyle. This agent will also be able to better scope out potential discounts that may be available to the auto policyholder, such as discounts for location or credit history.
Farmers provides services that make the claims process very easy. When you call them in an emergency or after an accident, they first assess your safety. They then assess your immediate needs such as roadside assistance or emergency help, and then they walk you through the claims process. After the claim is processed, Farmers refers service providers to ensure reliable and efficient auto repair. Using the Farmers website, you can find a Florida auto insurance quote in five minutes.
Though Florida is a no-fault insuring state, Farmers offers additional coverage beyond the basic requirements for a Florida auto insurance policy. Farmers also offers the following additions:
Bodily injury Coverage
The Farmers’ policy covers the expenses in the event of another person’s serious injury or death because of an accident in which you are involved. This coverage includes lost wages, medical expenses and financial compensation for pain and suffering.
Collision Coverage
This addition covers the damage caused to your vehicle when you hit another vehicle or object. You would be reimbursed for the damages, minus a chosen deductible.
Comprehensive Coverage
This package offers protection against fire, theft, falling objects, riots, storms, earthquakes, floods, animal damage or other collision with other natural obstacles. Permanently installed equipment is covered under this option as well.
Medical Payments
Farmers offers medical payments coverage, but this addition may not be necessary in Florida. Florida’s no-fault policy requires drivers to carry PIP coverage. Farmers’ PIP coverage offers a broader range of medical costs than the medical payments coverage. With PIP, even lost wages of the injured party are compensated.
Farmers uses Foremost, the nation’s largest specialty insurer to provide motorcycle and antique car insurance. Though the law in Florida does not require motorcycle insurance, it is worth having with the rate of accidents and fatalities. Foremost covers all types of antique cars that are quite expensive to maintain as well, including kit cars, customs, hot rods, foreign cars, exotics and more.
Farmers also offers discounts to policy holders such as professional groups, retired professionals, homeowners, new parents, good students, Teens with certain driving training programs, alternative fuel vehicles, air bags and more.
November 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Health Insurance | No Comments »
United American Insurance Company started in Texas in 1947 and now operates in 49 states and in Canada. After Medicare was put in to law in 1966, United American started to focus on the individual health market and senior citizens. They are the nation’s leading writer of Medicare supplements. United American focuses on the uninsured and underinsured, offering supplemental products for those who cannot afford a traditional heath insurance plan.
United American Insurance Company has received a “superior” rating from A.M. Best and according to Standard & Poors has “very strong” financial strength. United American offers individual policies, supplemental health policies, life insurance, Medicare supplements and annuity products. In 2007, United American processed over 2 million claims.
United American Insurance has various plans that cater to an individual’s or family’s age, health and financial needs. You can choose from plans such as the FlexGuard Plus Hospital and Surgical plan for consumers up to age 63; individuals or families. With this plan you can choose the financial benefit level and also added enhancements such as covered physicians charges, critical illness benefit or cancer coverage. Other plans for those under 63 years old include the Good Sense Plan Hospital and Surgical, HSXC Hospital and Surgical, the UA 250 Accident Compensation plan and the SHXC Hospital and Surgical plan. For those of more specific ages, choose from the MMXC Hospital and Surgical, the HealthGuard Critical Illness and the Cash Benefit Cancer Plan. United American also offers nine of the fourteen standardized Medicare Supplement policies.
If you are critically ill or have cancer, United American carries a Supplemental Cash Benefit Cancer Plan as well as HealthGuard Critical Illness Insurance. Both plans are written upon proof of first diagnosis and pay between $10,000 and $50,000 to be used at your discretion. The compensation can go towards medical costs, experimental procedures, travel expenses or even income. The Cancer Cash Plan and the HealthGuard C.I. are policies that pay in addition to other coverage.
All products have guaranteed renewal, flexible benefits, freedom of choice of health care providers and portability. You can take your health care plan with you if you move to a different state.
United American also boasts about their fast turn around time for claims, which can be crucial to those waiting for compensation. The average turn around time for a Medicare claim is only 4 calendar days! This is a company designed around affordability and customer service.
November 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Home Insurance | No Comments »
The Hartford Financial Services Group is one of the largest insurance groups in the US and is ranked 82 on 2007’s Fortune 100 List as well as being one of “Fortune’s Most Admired Companies”. Founded in 1810, the Hartford offers financial stability and a solid background in the home insurance industry.
The Hartford Insurance Company uses independent agents to assist clients in finding a personalized Florida homeowners insurance policy, while also providing quotes from other companies. Independent agents help make the claims process more efficient and user-friendly for the home insurance consumer. Agents are easily accessible using The Hartford’s online agent locator.
The Hartford’s “Sentinel Plan” is a tailored package that allows you to combine basic home insurance coverage with personalized enhancements for a lower total cost. The Hartford also offers plans that specifically cater to home businesses, a feature that many of their competitors lack. All home business policies can also be personalized, as no two home businesses are exactly the same. Renters can also take advantage of The Hartford’s comprehensive insurance policies that are typically limited to homeowners.
The Hartford offers many basic coverage policies for your home. Dwelling Coverage covers the cost of rebuilding your home or structures that are attached to it. Personal Property Coverage insures personal property owned by the policyholders, wherever they may be. Loss of use coverage covers the cost of living when your house is uninhabitable because of a covered event. Liability coverage insures accidental injury or death on your property alongside Medical payments coverage, which compensates for costs incurred when you, your family members or your pets injure someone else while on the property. The Hartford also optionally offers earthquake and scheduled personal property coverage.
The Hartford also offers policyholders a Contractor Connection Network. When your Florida home is damaged by natural disasters or is in need of repair, The Hartford can provide resources to ensure that the best contractors in the area repair your home. All selected contractors are held to extremely high standards of service and must be reliable and professional. The Hartford’s affiliated contractors will inspect the site within two days of contact from the homeowner. These contractors work with The Hartford to estimate damages and can guarantee that you are getting a fair cost and evaluation of the work to be done. The Hartford adjusters will communicate with the contractors for you if you are unhappy with their progress or the finished repairs. Contractors in the network must be financially stable, licensed, insured and must guarantee their workmanship for three years.
November 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Home Insurance | No Comments »
Travelers of Florida keeps it simple, offering basic Florida home insurance that is affordable to homeowners. Homeowners can choose to add enhancements to their policies and increase their monthly premiums. They are open 365 days a year and boast fast and efficient claims. If there is a serious emergency in or involving your home, a Travelers of Florida agent will be at the property no matter what time of day. Specially catered to Floridians, Travelers of Florida has a catastrophe response team in the event of major storms or natural disasters that will come and assist policy-holding homeowners.
Basic Travelers of Florida homeowner’s policies cover your home, detached structures, personal belongings, living expenses when the home is damaged and personal liability. A basic Travelers of Florida house insurance policy surpasses the basic coverage of its competitors.
Additionally, policyholders can opt for contents coverage, additional replacement cost protection, personal injury, identity theft protection, personal articles floater and pleasure boat liability insurance for small watercrafts.
Though Florida homeowner’s insurance rates have soared, Travelers of Florida offers competitive pricing, keeping their policies affordable. They extend discounts for new homes, combining your homeowners and automobile insurance policies, for staying claim-free and for securing your home with smoke detectors and security systems.
Travelers of Florida also offers insurance products for condominium owners and renters. Florida condo owners are offered coverage of their personal contents as well as personal liability. They are also offered the same enhancements to their coverage as homeowners such as contents coverage, personal injury, identity theft protection, personal articles floater and pleasure boat liability insurance. Similarly, renters are offered the same protection for their rental home as condo owners.
November 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Home Insurance | No Comments »
State Farm insures 15 million homes in America, offering policies that protect the home, personal contents as well as personal liability. State Farm is recognized for rewarding policyholders with discounts when they insure their homes and their automobiles through their insurance company. State Farm is the largest private insurance agency in Florida. They write policies for one out of every five residents in the Tampa area.
State Farm offers a unique Condo Unit Owner Policy, a policy that covers condominium owners that live in the condo at least part-time and are insured by a condominium association. Unlike their home insurance policies, State Farm limits condo owners from coverage of water damage, earthquakes, settling, nuclear hazards and animal damage such as from rodents or birds. Condo owners are also not protected when business takes place on the premises or if there are purposeful injuries administered on the premises.
State Farm can help protect those who rent their home by offering coverage against vandalism, fire or theft. Most landlords do not insure the contents of their rental property; they only insure the building. State Farm offers policies for renters that cost less than one dollar per day. They also provide coverage for personal injury or property damage to others while on your property. State Farm extends their reward discount to renters as well when they insure their rental property and their automobile through State Farm.
Their site also offers many resources to help protect your home, beyond the coverage that an insurance policy can provide. State Farm provides a loan and mortgage calculator to help you figure out the cost of your future home, including Florida homeowners insurance. They also provide a program called Possessions Matters, a computer application that helps you record the contents in your home in case of destruction. This can be downloaded for free on their website.
Unfortunately in February 2008, State Farm said they were no longer writing new homeowners insurance policies to Floridians, having spent $4.4 billion in 2005 because of eight destructive hurricanes that hit Florida. Though there are 900 State Farm agents in Florida, the new laws about capping homeowners insurance premiums and the continuing volatile climate in Florida have driven them to cut their policies. Current policy holders will not be affected by this new plan and policy holders that move within the state to a new home will also not be affected.
November 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Home Insurance | No Comments »
Allstate is Florida’s largest homeowner’s insurance provider. It is the nation’s second largest personal property insurer as well. Allstate continues to receive excellent ratings from Strong&Poor’s, Moody’s and A.M. Bests for their ability to effectively pay claims to homeowners in Florida. Allstate is a national insurance company so they are extremely accessible, even when traveling.
It is easy to access all policy information about your Allstate Florida homeowner’s insurance because all of your information is online. You won’t waste time waiting on the phone because you can manage and track claims all from your home computer. Their web site also offers a free online calculator to estimate your monthly payments and to compare future home loans. Allstate realizes that home insurance is an investment that must be calculated in to the financial planning of purchasing a home.
Allstate provides workmanships guarantees when policyholders work with their designated contractors. They have a variety of products to choose from so that homeowners can personalize their coverage to suit the needs of their family and their home.
Most Allstate Florida homeowner’s insurance holders opt for coverage of personal property, family liability protection, guest medical protection and additional living expenses. These types of protection are offered for Florida house insurance, Florida condo insurance, Florida mobile home insurance and also Florida renters insurance. Personal property coverage compensates for movable personal property that is lost or damaged. Family liability protection covers the inside of the home for accidents or property damages to others that you are legally bound to pay. Similarly, guest medical protection covers others that are injured within your home by insured losses. Additional living expenses coverage compensates you and your family for expenses incurred when you must live outside of the home because it is inhabitable.
Other optional Allstate policy additions are replacement cost coverage, scheduled personal property coverage, increased building code coverage, portable cellular communication systems coverage and satellite dish antennas coverage. These additional compensations can save you money when you least expect it.
Those looking for Florida mobile home insurance can opt for either the deluxe policy or the standard policy from Allstate. Special mobile home insurance policies include emergency removal in case of a fire or nearby hazard, trip collision in case your mobile home is damaged in transit and fire department charges if your mobile home is not under the watch of a local fire department.
It is clear that Allstate insurance policies do not exclude any type of homeowner in Florida. Unfortunately, Allstate has dropped 400,000 Florida homeowner’s insurance policy holders within the past four years. Destructive weather and new laws about premiums rates have caused Allstate to slowly retreat from this market.
November 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Home Insurance | No Comments »
Citizens Property Insurance Corporation was created in 2002 when the state of Florida combined the Residential Property and Casualty Joint Underwriting Association and the Florida Windstorm Underwriting Association. This corporation provides insurance to Florida homeowners in high-risk areas and homeowners that cannot find insurance coverage from a private insurance company.
Citizens Property Insurance Corporation aims to protect Florida’s financial health by providing affordable insurance policies to homeowners that would otherwise pay high rates for the location of their homes. The company provides security to Floridians that are most in need of financial coverage in the event of natural disasters. Citizens Property Insurance Corporation also prides itself on its excellent customer service and claims efficiency.
Unlike their competitors, Citizens Property Insurance Corporation has a Policy Holder Declaration of Rights. This policy requires employees and members to provide customers with courteous and prompt customer service, fair prompt and professional claims services, prompt professional service from insurance agents and the right to know about all products and services.
Citizens Property Insurance Corporation offers policies for personal residential multi-peril, personal residential wind and hurricane, commercial residential multi-peril, commercial residential wind and hurricane and commercial non-residential wind and hurricane.
You can save money and receive discounts with Citizens Property Insurance Corporation on many different grounds. If your home has hurricane mitigation features, you can save 45% on your insurance rates when a licensed expert certifies the features. New homes that comply with Florida building code also receive a discounted rate for homeowners insurance.
Citizens Property Insurance Corporation also provides resources to consumers and their own policy owners to help them construct safer homes and protect their families. These resources can prove to be essential for Florida homeowners that are faced with countless natural disasters yearly.
Currently, Citizens Property Insurance Corporation has frozen rates until the year 2010. This is a welcomed provision to Florida homeowners that have seen their home insurance rates skyrocket in the past five years. The frozen rates are for commercial and personal policies. However, in 2009, homeowners that have property valued at over $2 million in a wind eligible area are no longer covered. Luckily, Citizens Property Insurance provides policyholders with 180 days notice if their policy will not be renewed when their policy expires. If at that time a homeowner still cannot obtain coverage from a private insurer, through sworn statements, then Citizens will insure them for an additional three years.
September 15th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Life Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Have you taken care of dwindling medical needs such as medication for your blood pressure or cholesterol? Keeping these medical needs under control can make you appear healthier in the eyes of the insurance company.
September 14th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Life Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Save money on your life insurance premiums by paying annually. Rates can decrease dramatically if you opt to pay in a yearly lump sum instead of monthly.
September 13th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Life Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Find your life insurance policy as early as you can. Rates increase and eligibility decreases as you age, especially if you or your spouse becomes seriously ill.
September 12th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Life Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Do you still need to be paying in to your life insurance policy? If your children are grown and you and your spouse are comfortable for retirement, perhaps you no longer need to grow your insurance policy.
September 11th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Life Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Quit smoking and you will save thousands of dollars over your life. Save even more money by getting lower insurance premiums for being smoke-free.
September 10th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Life Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Consider working out. Better health can save you money on your life insurance costs in Florida when you face the mandatory physical examination.
September 9th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Life Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Have you calculated the exact amount that you would need to provide to support your spouse or children when purchasing life insurance? Take advantage of online calculators to better make a decision about the amount of your policy. The Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education provides an online calculator for your benefit.
September 8th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Life Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Never disclose your personal information to insurance agents that are not licensed with the state of Florida. According to the National Insurance Fraud Bureau, insurance fraud costs Floridians 30% on their life insurance premiums.
September 7th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Life Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Did you request a prospectus when you purchased your life insurance policy? Florida insurance agencies must provide a prospectus, upon request, which is a summary of the investment you are buying.
September 6th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Life Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Did you receive a 10-day trial period to make a final decision about your new life insurance policy? In Florida it is mandatory to offer the buyer a 10-day trial of their new life insurance product.
September 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Auto Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Are you in the military, or are you an engineer or doctor? Check and see if your profession or military career can offer you a discount on your auto insurance in Florida.
September 4th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Auto Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Do you have a stellar student at home? Save money on your auto insurance policy in Florida when your student has a 3.0 GPA or better.
September 3rd, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Auto Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Don’t believe everything they tell you. Florida does not permit auto insurance agencies to require any coverage policies beyond Personal Injury Protection and Property Damage Liability.
September 2nd, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Auto Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Drive safely! You will save on your auto insurance in Florida and in every other state if you have a clean driving record.
September 1st, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Auto Insurance Tips | No Comments »
In Florida you have the right to cancel and change your auto insurance policy at any time. Shop around every few months to ensure the best deal.
August 31st, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Auto Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Paying your bills on time can make you a better driver in the insurance companies eyes and give you a lower auto insurance premium in Florida. Good credit scores are rewarded with lower policy rates.
August 30th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Auto Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Take the time to compare Florida auto insurance quotes online. In seconds you can save hundreds of dollars by viewing all available competitive prices.
August 29th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Auto Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Buying a certified pre-owned or used vehicle can grant you a lower rate in your auto insurance premiums in Florida. A used car costs less for the insurer to replace in the event of a total wreck or theft.
August 28th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Auto Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Another way to save money on your auto insurance rate is to make your car safer. Add anti-theft devices, full front seat airbags or other safety options and receive a lower policy rate.
August 27th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Auto Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Save money in monthly premiums by opting for a higher deductible on Florida auto insurance. You may pay more in the event of an accident, but you are more likely to save from the monthly reduction.
August 26th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Homeowners Insurance Tips | No Comments »
You may be rewarded for your loyalty. Many Florida home insurance agencies will reward you with lower rates for staying with them for a certain number of years.
August 25th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Homeowners Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Does your Florida employer offer group home insurance? Take advantage of this offer and possible get a lower rate.
August 24th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Homeowners Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Have you checked the batteries in that smoke detector? Save money on your Florida home insurance and protect your family by equipping your home with smoke detectors or sprinkler systems.
August 23rd, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Homeowners Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Many Florida counties have high crime rates. Save on your home insurance and keep your house safe by adding an alarm system or new locks.
August 22nd, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Homeowners Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Florida homeowners may save on their insurance by better storm-proofing their homes. Adding storm shutters or building with quality materials will prevent storm damage and will allow you to raise your deductible and pay a lower monthly premium.
August 21st, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Homeowners Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Unhappy with the compensation you received from the storm damage on your coastal Florida property? Work around any no-sue clause in your contract by seeking out an appraiser to accurately assess damages.
August 20th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Homeowners Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Gulf Coast storms often seep water into homes and create mold. Consider protecting yourself from this destructive infestation by purchasing mold infestation insurance for your home.
August 19th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Homeowners Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Do you have law and ordinance coverage on your home insurance? This ensures that you will be compensated to rebuild your home up to Florida code standards.
August 18th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Homeowners Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Does your home have screened rooms or an enclosed pool? In some Florida counties, these areas are not covered by regular homeowner policies and will present an additional cost.
August 17th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Homeowners Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Are you handy and capable of making substantial home repairs? Consider your own skills when choosing the deductible rate on your Florida home insurance.
August 16th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Health Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Are you and your spouse using separate health insurance plans from your own employers? Adding your spouse to your policy and having only one family health insurance plan will reduce costs for your family instantly.
August 15th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Health Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Lose weight to save money on your health insurance costs. Obesity costs thousands of dollars in health care expenses because of related ailments such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
August 14th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Health Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Consider using an HSA, or health savings account, to supplement your health insurance. Save money by using this un-taxed money for medical expenses, allowing you to raise your deductible and lower your monthly premium. Your employer may also allow you to add part of your pre-taxed pay to this account, or they may even match your contribution.
August 13th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Health Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Lower the cost of health insurance premiums in Florida by increasing your deductible. If your plan still offers major medical coverage at the higher deductible, you will save money. Keep the money you save on premiums aside to cover the higher deductibles.
August 12th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Health Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Watch out for Florida health insurance policies that offer fixed compensation for medical services, or indemnity plans. You want to be compensated for the actual cost of the procedure, not what the insurance company believes the procedure ought to cost.
August 11th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Health Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Watch out for “calendar year limits”. This means that if your procedure requires more attention or funding than your policy allows per year, you will not be covered and will pay full cost.
August 10th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Health Insurance Tips | No Comments »
In Florida, if you are a self-employed individual with health problems and do not have any employees, you are eligible to purchase a small “group of one” health insurance policy. You cannot be turned down because you have diabetes or any other serious health condition. These policies are only sold during the month of August, with benefits beginning on October 1st. Contact the Florida Department of Insurance for more information.
August 9th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Health Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Make sure you get multiple quotes including quotes from one or all of the major health care companies in Florida (Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield of Florida (BCBSFL), Humana or United Healthcare). You may be surprised at what rates you can qualify for if you are in good health.
August 8th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Health Insurance Tips | No Comments »
It is always wise to use multiple independent insurance brokers to help compare the vast options available to you when shopping Florida health insurance plans. You just want to make sure that you are getting the most coverage for the best price and nowadays by using the internet this has become very easy to do. Remember that as a consumer-competition is a good thing!
August 7th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Health Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Note that HMO’s can be extremely restrictive and usually have many rules that must be followed if you want them to pay your claim. A few notable ones are that you can only see the doctors on your HMO list, you will be required to see your primary care doctor first, regardless of what is wrong with you. And if you have to go to the hospital you must have your primary doctor’s permission prior to going.
August 6th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Homeowners Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Some Florida home insurance agencies consider hurricane or storm damage to be flood damage. Make sure your home insurance policy specifically includes flood damage.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Medicare Supplement Insurance Tips | No Comments »
If you have complaints or legal problems with your Medicare and Medicare supplement plan, don’t waste your time sending your complaints to the state of Florida. Medicare is a federal program, not controlled by the state.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Medicare Supplement Insurance Tips | No Comments »
If you switch to any HMO and then change your mind, don’t worry. Floridians have five weeks to be reenrolled in your supplemental Medicare insurance plan.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Medicare Supplement Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Don’t worry about getting stuck with a supplemental Medicare policy that you are unhappy with. The state of Florida protects consumers by requiring a 30-day trial period for your insurance policy, fully refundable.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Medicare Supplement Insurance Tips | No Comments »
If you are planning on switching supplemental Medicare insurance policies, don’t lose money you have paid in advance. Florida state law requires that the insurance company immediately reimburse the money from the unearned portion of your old policy.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Medicare Supplement Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Are you being talked in to purchasing another supplemental Medicare insurance policy? The state of Florida only permits one supplemental policy per person, and buying a new policy will void the one you already possess.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Long Term Care Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Choose a long-term care insurance plan that will allow your physician to determine the need of care. Don’t rely on the insurance company to make important decisions about your health.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Long Term Care Insurance Tips | No Comments »
If you are married, opt to share your long-term care insurance plan. You may be able to draw off each other’s unused shares, which can especially benefit a couple where one partner is chronically ill.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Long Term Care Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Buy your long-term care insurance policy now. Companies will be more hesitant to cover you after you acquire costly illnesses such as diabetes or cancer.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Long Term Care Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Use Florida’s “Nursing Home Guide” created by the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration to check out a nursing home’s rating. This guide describes any deficiencies in your prospective nursing home within the past thirty months.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Long Term Care Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Have you deducted your long-term care policy premium? So long as you have a qualified policy in Florida, your premiums may count as medical expenses that are deductible.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Business Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Have you considered Key-Man insurance for your Florida business? If an executive, owner or other important employee dies, this insurance will provide compensation to the company to ensure a smooth transition.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Business Insurance Tips | Comments Off
Does your Florida business have business income insurance? This insurance covers necessities like the rent and aspects of payroll that could keep your business from going under after a disaster.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Business Insurance Tips | Comments Off
Is your business unable to qualify for windstorm insurance? Try using Citizens Property Insurance Corp. which is insurance offered by the state of Florida. This coverage focuses exclusively on small businesses, insuring up to $1 million in windstorm coverage.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Business Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Unsure about what type of insurance coverage your business will need? Florida only requires businesses to hold commercial automobile insurance on company cars.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Business Insurance Tips | No Comments »
Before preparing the financials for your new Florida business, have you considered the rising cost of hurricane coverage? The Florida Chamber of Commerce recognizes the cost of hurricane insurance to be a heavy and possibly fatal burden to small businesses.
August 5th, 2008 FL Insurance Posted in Florida Motorcycle Insurance Tips |