Buy NOW! Life insurance premiums increase dramatically as you get older. We also tend to be healthier when we are younger which qualifies some people for extremely low rates.

Everyone knows you can lower your rates if you don't smoke or use any tobacco products, start exercising, and lose weight. But you might be very surprised just how much this could save you.  

The premium for each vehicle is based on several factors:

• The original cost new
• Horsepower, size, weight, other physical characteristics
• Model year
• Vulnerability to damage
• Vehicle features such as: Sports Car, Speed, Styling, Seating capacity, Handling capabilities
  

All of this information is spelled out in the VIN of the vehicle.  The newer the faster, better handling, more expensive car will cost you more to insure. All of these factors are plugged into a vehicle symbol. The higher the symbol, look out. Once you get into the symbol 20 or higher category, you really might want to talk to your agent.

There are several factors that go into determining the value of your home. 

We use the latest software available to us through our excellent line up of companies to determine an estimate of what it would cost to replace your home in the event of a total or partial loss. We are able to do this by asking you several questions regarding your homes construction type. Download this PDF to see all of the things used to determine your homes value. Keep in mind this is only an estimate, and your agent may be able to help you with coverages that could further protect your investment.

This is a personal liability coverage that extends liability coverage over and above your home and auto liability limits of insurance. They are generally very inexpensive and are definitely worth considering. You can purchase limits of 1,000,000 to 10,000,000 depending upon eligibility requirements laid out by your carrier. Umbrella policies pay in addition to your existing liability limits, and are subject to conditions and exclusions all of which you should discuss with your agent.

This is a factor that is applied to your workers' compensation premium that is based on your loss experience your classifications over all loss experience. The Minnesota Workers' Compensation Insurance Association uses a formula that determines your experience mod. You can find more information regarding mod factors by reading the MWCIA's Experience Modification Brochure (PDF).

Executive officers who hold 25 percent ownership in a closely held corporation with less than 22,880 total payroll hours for all corporate employees in the preceding calendar year, member/owners of a limited liability company, partners of a partnership, and sole proprietors, as well as the parent, spouse, and children of all of the excluded parties described above.

Follow these 8 easy steps!

1. Stop but do not obstruct traffic
2. Assist injured have someone call police. Repeat after 5 minutes
3. Secure names, phone numbers, addresses of all drivers, witnesses, etc.
4. Secure make, model, license numbers of all cars involved.
5. Make drawing of scene, showing position of cars and other details
6. Don't hastily accept claim settlements at scene of accident.
7. Remain calm, courteous and consistent in your version of accident.
8. Notify your insurance agent as soon as possible.

It would be a great idea for all of us to have an inventory of our personal property. Other ways to keep record would be to: 

• Take pictures of and or videotape your possessions
• Keep your receipts
• Get appraisals and keep them current for expensive and/or scheduled property
  

It is a difficult and time consuming task but will definitely be well worth it if you ever suffer a large loss!

Download our Personal Inventory Checklist to help you get started.