How Does My Family Claim Life Insurance When I Die?

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Once a loved one has passed away, life insurance beneficiaries will need to know the steps to take in order to collect the life insurance payout to which they are entitled. This is typically not a task that is carried out by the executor of the estate.

In cases where the beneficiaries depend on the person who has passed for financial support, filing a claim is a priority to get the money as quickly as possible to cover expenses such as mortgage payments, utility bills, etc. Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. or Westerville, OH is here to help you every step of the way from purchasing the insurance policy to assisting beneficiaries in the collection of the payout.

Claiming Life Insurance Benefits

To claim the benefits from a life insurance policy, the beneficiary will need to contact the insurance company that sold the policy. Some insurance companies will require a form to be submitted by the beneficiary reporting the death of the insured. Once the form is received, a packet will be sent to the beneficiary with instructions on how to proceed. Typically, all that needs to be done is to complete the claim forms in the packet and return them to the insurance company along with a certified copy of the death certificate.

In the event that more than one beneficiary is named on the life insurance policy, each beneficiary will need to submit a claim form. Should the primary beneficiary die before the policyholder, the alternate beneficiary will be able to claim the proceeds of the policy. In this case, the alternate beneficiary will also need to submit a copy of the certified death certificate for both the primary beneficiary as well as the policyholder.

At Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. or Westerville, OH, we understand the difficulty of filing insurance claims in the wake of a loved one’s passing. We are dedicated to making the process as easy as possible during your time of grief. For more information, give us a call today.

Things You May Not Know About Auto Insurance

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You may think that you know all there is to know about auto insurance in Westerville, OH. However, there are a few lesser-known facts of which you may not be aware. If you are planning to purchase a new car, change or update your current policy, or just want all the facts, you need to learn as much as you can. The experts at Associated Insurance Agencies Inc are here to answer any questions that you may have.

Your Policy Can Be Canceled at Any Time

Many people are not aware of the fact that their insurance company can cancel their auto insurance policy at any time if you violate their guidelines. The same is true for non-renewals.

If you fail to pay your monthly premium when it is due, have your driver’s license revoked or suspended, submit too many claims where you are at fault, or misrepresent your driving or insurance history. All of these are reasons why the insurance provider may cancel your policy or deny renewal.

Small Billing Fees You May Not Be Noticing Each Month

Take the time to look over your insurance bill. If you are paying installments, you may see an additional charge for administrative fees. The more you divide your payments, the higher this convenience fee may be. In addition, there may also be charges added for the payment methods that you choose when paying your bills, such as credit card fees or pay-by-phone charges.

If you notice any additional fees on your bill, contact your provider to find out what the charges are for and how to avoid paying them. You could end up saving a considerable amount of money over time by eliminating unnecessary fees.

If you are interested in learning more facts about auto insurance in Westerville, OH, contact Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. We are here to address all of your concerns. Call us today.

Ohio Life Insurance – What You Need To Know About Life Insurance

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How can you best set up your family for their lives should you pass away?  This is a question that gets asked more than you would think.  You can save money over time in a nest egg account and pass that account on to your family, that’s certainly one way to do it.  Another way is to set up a life insurance policy that will cover you in the case of your passing.  We will cover facets of life insurance and what to look out for below.  Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. in Westerville, OH offers life insurance and other insurance needs.

How Life Insurance Works

Life Insurance works similarly to other forms of insurance in terms of how they work.  In general terms, you pay a monthly premium to your insurance agent for the policy, and the policy pays out in a coverable event.  The coverable event, in this case, would be your passing which is quite different from a fender-bender for car insurance.  This is why life insurance is a subject that’s not talked about very much due to the macabre nature of what the end result would be.  It’s beneficial not to think of life insurance in those terms as this has more to do with what you leave behind versus the fact that you’re leaving in the first place.

Term Life & Whole Life

There are two types of life insurance that you can get, term life insurance and whole life insurance.  Term life insurance covers a term or length of time which can run up to 20 or 30 years.  Monthly premiums are lower for term life insurance, but the premiums paid don’t add value to the policy.  Whole life insurance covers your entire life and premiums are paid in perpetuity until your passing.  The bonus about whole life insurance is that your premiums build more value in the policy.

To Learn More

You can get more information about life insurance by contacting Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. in Westerville, OH today!

Common Myths About Auto Insurance

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Auto insurance is what every driver in the state of Ohio needs. This type of insurance protects your car, you as a driver, other passengers, and other parties on the road. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions and myths about auto insurance that you should know about before buying a policy. Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. serving clients in Westerville, OH prepared a list of the most common of them: 

Most Common Myths About Auto Insurance

Here is a list of very common misconceptions about car insurance:

  • Getting insurance for a red car costs more money. There is a belief that red cars are more expensive in terms of the insurance. However, the color of a car is not one of those factors that have an impact on the price of auto insurance. 
  • Expensive cars cost more to insure. It does not matter what is the purchase price of your car. There are many mid-priced vehicles that cost more to insure.
  • Traffic tickets automatically increase the cost of insurance. It depends on the type of violation. If your violation is minor, your car insurance will not be affected.
  • To carry a state minimum car insurance is enough. The state of Ohio requires all drivers to carry a certain minimum amount of liability insurance. However, it is important to understand that in most cases this amount will not be enough to cover a car accident. 

If you are a car owner living in Westerville, OH or any other town in Ohio, Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. will be glad to help you find insurance that you need and deserve. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our agency and talk to any of our insurance agents. 

What Motorcycle Insurance Does Ohio Require?

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Motorcycle riders all over the United States are required to have some sort of insurance. Ohio is not an exception to that rule, especially with so many motorcycle riders in the state. When everybody on the road has insurance, more people are protected.

If you live in Westerville, OH, Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. can provide more information about the coverage you need for your motorcycle.

Bodily Injury Coverage

In Ohio, all drivers are required to carry liability insurance that covers bodily injury. You must have coverage for $25,000 of damage in accidents that involve one person and $50,000 of damage for incidents involving multiple people.

Even though these are the requirements, it is often recommended that you consider increasing the value of your policy. This will mean your insurance policy may cover damage your bike causes to others, including medical bills.

Property Damage Coverage

Ohio motorcyclists must also carry $25,000 worth of coverage for property damage. Property damage liability coverage repairs damage to the property of others if you are held responsible for causing it.

Of course, you might want to increase your liability coverage beyond the minimum to ensure you are no personally responsible for property damage.

Recommendations for Motorcycle Coverage

Certain types of coverage, including collision insurance and equipment insurance, are not required by the state of Ohio. It is also a good idea to consider comprehensive insurance in case something happens to your bike when you are not riding it.

Get the Right Motorcycle Coverage Today

Do you still have questions about motorcycle insurance in Westerville, OH? Contact Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. for more information about your insurance policy and state requirements.

Demystifying Popular Umbrella Insurance Myths

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Various myths can confuse you when looking for umbrella insurance coverage in Westerville, OH, particularly if you are a newbie. For this reason, Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. highlights popular insurance myths to avoid.

Myth#1: Umbrella insurance is only for the rich and famous

This is not true at all! The truth is that an umbrella policy can be beneficial even when your net worth is low or moderate. Since anyone can be sued, umbrella insurance is ideal for anyone earning a livelihood.

Myth#2: Umbrella insurance is costly 

Another common myth. Since umbrella insurance rides on other coverages, it’s not that expensive. In fact, for the liability coverage it gives you, the amount of premium you pay is only a fraction of the price.  

Myth#3: I’m too young to need umbrella insurance 

That’s just plain misleading. Young people face unique challenges such as buying homes, participating in risky hobbies, starting families, owning dangerous pets, and starting businesses. This means that young people are exposed to the same risks as older folks, and considering umbrella insurance is a great choice.

Myth#4: I already have enough insurance, so I don’t need umbrella coverage

Most people think this way because they believe that their existing insurance policies cover everything. But there are always gaps between what we expect our current insurance to pay and what actually happens.

For instance, you may have liability coverage in your auto insurance, but it may only stretch far when involved in a severe accident. It’s in such incidences that umbrella insurance steps in to save your assets.

Myth#5: I’ll never use my umbrella policy 

How could you say something like that? An umbrella insurance policy protects you against unexpected events that exceed your primary liability limits. These include lawsuits, medical bills, property damage, and lost wages due to injury that can occur to anyone.  

Now that you know the truth regarding umbrella insurance, don’t let anyone confuse you. Reach out to Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. in Westerville, OH, for umbrella insurance coverage and other clarifications you might need. 

Health insurance FAQ’s

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Choosing your health insurance is one of the most important decisions you make every year. The quality of your health care is directly affected by your health insurance and whether you have coverage. If you aren’t covered you may delay or avoid getting the preventive care that you need. This can be damaging to your health in the long run. At Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. in Westerville, OH we were established in 1923 and as independent agents, we are able to offer our customers the finest national and regional carriers to provide for their insurance needs. 

Is my doctor on the plan? 

If you have a doctor you prefer to use for your regular health care it is important they take the insurance you are planning to get. Every plan has a network of providers they contract with, and it is easy to find out what plans your doctor takes. 

How much will the insurance cost me per month?

At the end of the day, you need to be able to afford whatever plan you are considering. It is a primary consideration and letting your agent know what you can afford to pay is vital. 

What is the plan deducible? 

Every plan has a deductible that has to be met before coverage begins. You need to balance the deductible with the amount you will be paying each month to make sure it makes sense. 

Does the health insurance include prescriptions, dental, and vision? 

In addition to basic medical care, you can get extras with your health insurance. If you have prescription medication that you take, you want to make sure it is included with your plan. Vision and dental are also important coverage that most people want. 

Call or visit Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. in Westerville, OH when you are ready to choose your health insurance. 

We’re Hiring!

Posted on by Chase Kocher

Commercial Lines Customer Service Representative

Are you on the lookout for an incredible opportunity to advance your Commercial Lines Customer Service career? Set your sights on Associated Insurance Agencies in Westerville! We are seeking a Full Time Licensed Commercial Lines Customer Service Representative to join our already outstanding team. You’ll be matching your commercial lines insurance industry knowledge with your exceptional customer service skills to ensure clients have the right coverage to meet their individual needs. As our Commercial Lines Customer Service Representative, your ability to build rapport with people from all backgrounds will be essential in retaining the trust and business of our clients for years to come. We know that great customer service starts with ensuring our employee’s needs are met, which is why we are advocates for our team and work with them to achieve their professional goals.

If you’re ready to join an energetic and driven team to grow your Commercial Lines Customer Service career, apply today! 


Salary Range: Based on Experience
Benefits

  • Professional Development
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Weekends Off
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance


Responsibilities

  • Use your savvy skills to assist with policy changes and payments. 
  • Each interaction is an opportunity for you to educate and advise clients. 
  • Utilize your exemplary attention to detail to issue insurance documentation and update client information.
  • Answer client questions, problem solve and follow up with your quality rapport-building talents. 


Requirements

  • Property & Casualty License Required.
  • 3+ years of Insurance customer service experience required Commercial Lines experience a plus. 
  • Strong computer and technical skills, including Microsoft Office Suite and Agency Management software proficiency. 
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to prioritize.
  • A positive team player who is self-motivated. 

How Does Life Insurance Work?

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There are many ways you can protect your loved ones, and one of them is through life insurance. At Associated Insurance Agencies Inc, serving the people of  Westerville, OH, we strive to help you understand why you should consider getting life insurance.

What is Life Insurance

Life insurance is basically a contract between you and an insurance company where you pay premiums in exchange for a lump sum called a death benefit paid to your beneficiaries upon your death. Below are the different types of life insurance policies and how they work.

Term Life Insurance

Apart from being the most popular life insurance policy, it is also the most affordable. Term life insurance provides coverage over a certain period, and the premium amount paid stays the same during the whole duration of the policy. Should you die within the period or term, your policy states your beneficiaries can claim the death benefit, which is tax-free.

Whole Life Insurance

Whole life insurance provides a fixed death benefit as long as one keeps paying sufficient premiums and meets all their policy requirements. It comes with a cash value feature that you can utilize while alive. One can also redeem their cover, which leads to most people using it in retirement. However, your loved ones can also receive the death benefits upon your passing, hence securing their future.

Universal Life Insurance

Universal life is a type of permanent life policy. It comes with a cash value feature allowing you to invest in your preferred market. When you pass away, your beneficiaries receive the death benefit, which they can use to cover various expenses like mortgage, tuition fees, or pay any pending debt.

You can contact us at Associated Insurance Agencies Inc, for assistance in choosing a policy that will adequately protect your loved ones. We strive to serve all our Westerville, OH clients well, ensuring they have peace of mind that their beneficiaries are well taken care of.

Why basic auto insurance isn’t always the right choice

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Ohio has a basic amount of auto insurance it requires all drivers to have. While some people may feel that this is an amount of auto insurance that will fully protect them, for others it just won’t be the right amount. Not only do you need to access how much liability coverage you need, but you also need to decide on other auto insurance options available.  At Associated Insurance Agencies Inc.in Westerville, OH, our business is making sure our customers have the insurance they need to be in compliance with the law and to give them the protection they need. 

In Ohio, drivers are required to carry liability insurance on their vehicles. 25/50/25 is the basic amount of required insurance you can legally get away with. That is $25,000 for injuries and medical bills for the first injured person in an accident you caused and a total of $50.000 for the injuries for the total accident. $25,000 is for damages that affected property. Given what a hospital stay can cost and what a vehicle sells for, this is on the lower side. 

If you have a reasonable amount of assets if you own a home, a business, a cabin or just about anything you could be in danger of losing them if a judgment was won against you that is in excess of the basic amount of liability insurance that is required. Talk to your insurance agent about the amount of liability insurance that would give you the level of coverage you need. 

Collision and comprehensive coverage protect your vehicle. If you use your vehicle every day to get to work, to the store, to drop off kids, or other daily activities, it is important you have insurance that would repair or replace that vehicle in the event of an accident. 

Contact Associated Insurance Agencies Inc. in Westerville, OH, to discuss your insurance needs.