(3027,1,'2023-02-27 04:14:28','2023-02-27 04:14:28','<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3026,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-6.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3026\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You may not know how important your driveway is until it is no longer there. A clean and effective driveway, as the principal entrance to your home, can either enhance the aesthetics of your property or be required to climb up the hill you live on.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">In either case, knowing whether, when, and how your homeowner’s insurance covers your driveway could be beneficial. Let’s have a look at the ins and outs of these situations so you can know what to expect.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Damaged Driveways?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Your driveway is most likely covered under your policy’s dwelling (Coverage A) or other structures (Coverage B) sections.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Your home insurance policy’s dwelling coverage protects the structure of your home and everything permanently attached to it, such as decks and porches. If your garage is attached to your house and your driveway is connected to it, it’s most certainly covered under your homeowner’s insurance.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If your driveway leads to a detached garage or carport, it may fall within the other structures section of your policy, but it should still be covered.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The HO-3 form, which is the most prevalent type of homeowners insurance coverage, protects you from over a dozen stated probable causes of harm. Damage from fire, hail and hurricanes are just a few of the covered perils that could harm your driveway.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">What If Your Driveway Isn’t Covered?</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Insurance does not, however, cover all types of weather-related damage. Homeowners insurance does not cover floods or earth movements, which are two of the most common causes of driveway damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You’re probably not protected if your driveway crumbled or shifted because the earth beneath it shifted. Furthermore, your provider will not reimburse you if your driveway was washed out by rain or harmed in some other way by a flood.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">When Your Insurance Doesn’t Cover Your Driveway</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You wouldn’t be covered either if the damage happened gradually over time or if it was inflicted by someone who lives in the residence.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">For example, if you wear out your driveway over time by parking and driving your car in the same spot, your insurance will not cover the cost because you caused the problem via normal wear and use.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">In many places of the United States, asphalt driveways are common. If they’re exposed to the light every day, they’ll eventually crack.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">They’re also vulnerable to harm if the earth beneath them shifts due to water. These incidents would not be covered either since they were not unexpected and the damage might be classified as normal wear and tear.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Another improbable but potential reason for coverage denial is if your driveway connects to a detached garage or shed where you do business. Your insurer may view it as a part of your home’s structure rather than a part of your business, which necessitates different insurance coverage than a homeowners policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Is Driveway Replacement Or Repair Covered By Homeowners Insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you file a claim after your driveway is damaged by a covered risk, your homeowner’s insurance should compensate you for a new one.&nbsp;Let’s imagine your driveway is ripped apart by a tornado or a tree falls on it after a major storm. Both of these scenarios are usually covered by a homeowner’s insurance policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If the damage exceeds your deductible, you can make a claim, and your insurance company will either refund you for the entire driveway or replace the damaged portion.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Your supplier should also cover debris removal, so you should be covered for removing the old driveway (or the fallen tree that’s on it).</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">When it comes to replacing your driveway, be sure you understand if your policy will cover the driveway’s real cash value or its replacement cost. Another improbable but potential reason for coverage denial is if your driveway connects to a detached garage or shed where you do business.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Your insurer may view it as a part of your home’s structure rather than a part of your business, which necessitates different insurance coverage than a homeowners policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">How Much Does It Cost To Repair A Damaged Driveway?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you discover that your particular situation isn’t covered by homeowners insurance then you’ll need to come up with the costs yourself. But, how much will this cost you?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The cost to repair a damaged driveway depends on the type of driveway you have. Here are the following overall prices for driveway repair:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><strong>Concrete: $300 – $3,000</strong></li><li><strong>Brick: $500 – $1,200</strong></li><li><strong>Heated: $500 – $6,000</strong></li><li><strong>Gravel: $5 – $500</strong></li><li><strong>Asphalt: $250 – $800</strong></li><li><strong>Cobblestone: $600 – $1,200</strong></li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Price Per Square Foot For Driveway Repair</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">As you can see, the price for driveway repair is highly variable depending on the material that you use. To get a better idea of how much it will cost you, it’s best to figure out the square footage of your driveway:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><strong>Concrete</strong><ul><li><strong>Resurfacing</strong>: $3 to $7 per sq ft</li><li><strong>Crack Repair</strong>: $5 to $10 per sq ft</li><li><strong>Sealant</strong>: $8 to $12 per sq ft</li></ul></li><li><strong>Brick</strong><ul><li><strong>Brick Pavers:&nbsp;</strong>$0.50 to $1.80 per brick or $2 to $8 per sq ft</li><li><strong>Tree Removal:&nbsp;</strong>$320 to $800</li></ul></li><li><strong>Heated</strong><ul><li><strong>Radiant heating tubes:&nbsp;</strong>$4 to $12 per sq ft</li><li><strong>Boiler Replacement:&nbsp;</strong>$1,200 to $6,000</li></ul></li><li><strong>Gravel</strong><ul><li><strong>Re-grading:&nbsp;</strong>$0.50 to $2.20 per sq ft</li><li><strong>Resurfacing:&nbsp;</strong>$0.25 to $0.75 per sq ft</li><li><strong>Patchwork:&nbsp;</strong>$2 to $8 per bag of gravel</li></ul></li><li><strong>Asphalt</strong><ul><li><strong>Potholes:</strong>&nbsp;$100 to $400</li><li><strong>Hot and cold patching:</strong>&nbsp;$2 to $5 per sq ft</li><li><strong>Saw-cut Repairs:</strong>&nbsp;$4 to $12 per sq ft</li></ul></li><li><strong>Cobblestone</strong><ul><li><strong>Individual stone replacement:&nbsp;</strong>$8 to $20 per sq ft</li><li><strong>Sand:&nbsp;</strong>$3 to $5 per sq ft</li><li><strong>Re-leveling:&nbsp;</strong>$6 to $12 per sq ft</li></ul></li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Knowing the elements of each cost will help you to be able to narrow down the cost for your project. It’s best to estimate this, and if your driveway is at high risk for damage then set aside that amount so you have it in the event that your insurance doesn’t cover the damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Related Questions</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Is a driveway regarded as a separate structure?</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Other Structures – a section of a homeowner’s policy that covers structures on the property that are isolated from the dwelling by a clear area or connected to the dwelling by a fence, utility line, or other similar connection. A detached garage, tool shed, driveway, swimming pool, gazebo, or fence are all examples.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">What kind of damages aren’t covered by homeowner’s insurance?</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Damage caused by termites and insects, birds or rodents, rust, rot, mold, and regular wear and tear is not covered.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Damage from pollution or smoke generated by industrial or agricultural activity is also not covered. If something is poorly manufactured or has a concealed fault, it will almost always be excluded from coverage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Is driveway repair covered by homeowners insurance?</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If a covered risk, such as a natural disaster or vandalism, caused the fracture in the driveway, home insurance may cover the cost of repair.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Assume a storm toppled a massive tree, cracking your driveway. In some circumstances, where an unexpected incident occurs, the homeowner’s insurance policy will cover it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://upgradedhome.com/does-homeowners-insurance-cover-driveway-damage/\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Driveway Damage?','','inherit','closed','closed','','3025-revision-v1','','','2023-02-27 04:14:28','2023-02-27 04:14:28','',3025,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3027',0,'revision','',0),(3028,1,'2023-02-27 04:20:17','2023-02-27 04:20:17','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If your landscaping is damaged due to a covered peril, up to 5% of your homeowners insurance policy’s dwelling coverage can be used to pay for the repairs. MoneyGeek explains when homeowners insurance covers landscaping and when it does not. We also share how to protect your landscape from potential damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3030,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-7-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3030\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">All standard homeowners insurance policies cover damage to landscaping. This type of damage is typically covered by the policy\'s dwelling coverage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The dwelling coverage in your homeowners insurance policy will pay to replace or repair your home\'s physical structure if it is damaged due to a covered peril. This is often your homeowner\'s insurance policy\'s highest coverage limit. If your landscaping is damaged, you are required to provide evidence that the cause of the damage is a risk that is covered by your homeowners insurance. If you can prove that, your policy will cover the damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Landscaping?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Although your homeowners insurance policy’s dwelling coverage extends protection to your property\'s landscaping, coverage will only be provided under certain conditions. Examples of covered events are outlined below.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><strong>MONEYGEEK EXPERT TIP</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Damages caused by an accidental fire will be covered.</li><li>If someone vandalizes your landscape, it will be covered.</li><li>Damage to landscape that is caused by falling objects, car collisions, tornadoes, explosions or unexpected water damage will be reimbursed.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Note that the scenarios presented here are examples. Your landscape may also be covered if it is damaged by heavy snow, hail or wind. Theft of landscape-related property is also generally protected. Water damage caused by burst pipes or malfunctioning sump pumps will be covered. To determine whether structures and belongings are protected, you must contact your homeowner\'s insurance provider.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">When Doesn’t Homeowners Insurance Cover Landscaping?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Although coverage for damages to your landscaping is included in your homeowner\'s insurance policy, the following damages may not be covered:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>If your landscape is damaged due to natural floods, you will need a separate flood insurance policy to cover the repairs.</li><li>Damages by mudslides and earthquakes are also not covered.</li><li>Landscapes damaged by pests and insect infestations are also not covered.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">How to Protect Your Landscape</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Despite the fact that your homeowners insurance policy covers landscaping damages, it is in your best interest to take the required measures to protect your home\'s landscape. It’s easier to take steps to protect your landscape than to file a claim and oversee repairs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><img width=\"63px\" height=\"63px\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/v1585171420/assets/components/icon/rain_fkozzi.svg\" alt=\"rain icon\"> Protect from extreme weather conditions - It’s important to prepare your landscape before an adverse event like a hailstorm or tornado hits. You can take measures to tornado-proof your landscape. Install trees that are resistant to winds and make sure you don\'t have trees with shallow roots. Additionally, by connecting the trunks of young trees to tree guards made of wire or plastic, you can prevent them from being damaged.</li><li><img width=\"63px\" height=\"63px\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/v1585171420/assets/components/icon/hammer_yk2psa.svg\" alt=\"hammer icon\"> Install French drains and rain gardens - Consider installing French drains to reduce waterlogging, especially if you live in a flood-prone location. Create a rain garden with plants that thrive in wet conditions.</li><li><img width=\"63px\" height=\"63px\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/v1585171420/assets/components/icon/eco-house_ty5myo.svg\" alt=\"ecoHouse icon\"> Winterproof the garden - If your plants and trees are not adequately protected from harsh winter conditions, they could die as soon as the first snowfall arrives. Winter pruning of plants and shrubs is essential, as is adding insulating mulch at the base of young plants. Look for winterproofing solutions to protect your trees and plants.</li><li><img width=\"63px\" height=\"63px\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/v1585171420/assets/components/icon/eye_vd2kxx.svg\" alt=\"eye icon\"> Regular inspection and upkeep - Inspect your landscape and the areas around the house to ensure there are no burst pipes or drainage problems. If you identify a problem area, address it immediately. Employ professionals, if necessary, for the regular inspection and maintenance of your landscape.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Where to Buy Homeowners Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Homeowners insurance is available from most major insurance companies, such as State Farm, Progressive and GEICO, as well as smaller ones, such as Lemonade and Hippo. The average monthly cost of homeowners insurance is around $175. However, the price may differ from one company to the next.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Comparing homeowners insurance policies is a good way to get the best deals. The amount of personal property that you choose to cover can also affect your overall insurance premiums. MoneyGeek offers a personal property calculator to help you estimate the cost of a homeowners insurance policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.moneygeek.com/insurance/homeowners/does-homeowners-insurance-cover-landscaping/\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Landscaping?','','publish','closed','closed','','does-homeowners-insurance-cover-landscaping','','','2023-02-27 04:20:17','2023-02-27 04:20:17','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3028',0,'post','',0),(3029,1,'2023-02-27 04:15:23','2023-02-27 04:15:23','','Insurance-7','','inherit','closed','closed','','insurance-7-10','','','2023-02-27 04:15:23','2023-02-27 04:15:23','',3028,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-7.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3030,1,'2023-02-27 04:15:49','2023-02-27 04:15:49','','Insurance-7-1','','inherit','closed','closed','','insurance-7-1-2','','','2023-02-27 04:15:49','2023-02-27 04:15:49','',3028,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-7-1.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3031,1,'2023-02-27 04:20:17','2023-02-27 04:20:17','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If your landscaping is damaged due to a covered peril, up to 5% of your homeowners insurance policy’s dwelling coverage can be used to pay for the repairs. MoneyGeek explains when homeowners insurance covers landscaping and when it does not. We also share how to protect your landscape from potential damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3030,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-7-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3030\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">All standard homeowners insurance policies cover damage to landscaping. This type of damage is typically covered by the policy\'s dwelling coverage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The dwelling coverage in your homeowners insurance policy will pay to replace or repair your home\'s physical structure if it is damaged due to a covered peril. This is often your homeowner\'s insurance policy\'s highest coverage limit. If your landscaping is damaged, you are required to provide evidence that the cause of the damage is a risk that is covered by your homeowners insurance. If you can prove that, your policy will cover the damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Landscaping?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Although your homeowners insurance policy’s dwelling coverage extends protection to your property\'s landscaping, coverage will only be provided under certain conditions. Examples of covered events are outlined below.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><strong>MONEYGEEK EXPERT TIP</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Damages caused by an accidental fire will be covered.</li><li>If someone vandalizes your landscape, it will be covered.</li><li>Damage to landscape that is caused by falling objects, car collisions, tornadoes, explosions or unexpected water damage will be reimbursed.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Note that the scenarios presented here are examples. Your landscape may also be covered if it is damaged by heavy snow, hail or wind. Theft of landscape-related property is also generally protected. Water damage caused by burst pipes or malfunctioning sump pumps will be covered. To determine whether structures and belongings are protected, you must contact your homeowner\'s insurance provider.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">When Doesn’t Homeowners Insurance Cover Landscaping?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Although coverage for damages to your landscaping is included in your homeowner\'s insurance policy, the following damages may not be covered:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>If your landscape is damaged due to natural floods, you will need a separate flood insurance policy to cover the repairs.</li><li>Damages by mudslides and earthquakes are also not covered.</li><li>Landscapes damaged by pests and insect infestations are also not covered.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">How to Protect Your Landscape</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Despite the fact that your homeowners insurance policy covers landscaping damages, it is in your best interest to take the required measures to protect your home\'s landscape. It’s easier to take steps to protect your landscape than to file a claim and oversee repairs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><img width=\"63px\" height=\"63px\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/v1585171420/assets/components/icon/rain_fkozzi.svg\" alt=\"rain icon\"> Protect from extreme weather conditions - It’s important to prepare your landscape before an adverse event like a hailstorm or tornado hits. You can take measures to tornado-proof your landscape. Install trees that are resistant to winds and make sure you don\'t have trees with shallow roots. Additionally, by connecting the trunks of young trees to tree guards made of wire or plastic, you can prevent them from being damaged.</li><li><img width=\"63px\" height=\"63px\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/v1585171420/assets/components/icon/hammer_yk2psa.svg\" alt=\"hammer icon\"> Install French drains and rain gardens - Consider installing French drains to reduce waterlogging, especially if you live in a flood-prone location. Create a rain garden with plants that thrive in wet conditions.</li><li><img width=\"63px\" height=\"63px\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/v1585171420/assets/components/icon/eco-house_ty5myo.svg\" alt=\"ecoHouse icon\"> Winterproof the garden - If your plants and trees are not adequately protected from harsh winter conditions, they could die as soon as the first snowfall arrives. Winter pruning of plants and shrubs is essential, as is adding insulating mulch at the base of young plants. Look for winterproofing solutions to protect your trees and plants.</li><li><img width=\"63px\" height=\"63px\" src=\"https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/v1585171420/assets/components/icon/eye_vd2kxx.svg\" alt=\"eye icon\"> Regular inspection and upkeep - Inspect your landscape and the areas around the house to ensure there are no burst pipes or drainage problems. If you identify a problem area, address it immediately. Employ professionals, if necessary, for the regular inspection and maintenance of your landscape.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Where to Buy Homeowners Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Homeowners insurance is available from most major insurance companies, such as State Farm, Progressive and GEICO, as well as smaller ones, such as Lemonade and Hippo. The average monthly cost of homeowners insurance is around $175. However, the price may differ from one company to the next.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Comparing homeowners insurance policies is a good way to get the best deals. The amount of personal property that you choose to cover can also affect your overall insurance premiums. MoneyGeek offers a personal property calculator to help you estimate the cost of a homeowners insurance policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.moneygeek.com/insurance/homeowners/does-homeowners-insurance-cover-landscaping/\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Landscaping?','','inherit','closed','closed','','3028-revision-v1','','','2023-02-27 04:20:17','2023-02-27 04:20:17','',3028,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3031',0,'revision','',0),(3032,1,'2023-02-27 04:33:57','2023-02-27 04:33:57','<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3033,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-8.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3033\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Homeowners choose to do home renovations for a number of reasons. For instance, maybe the existing home no longer fits the family’s needs, the homeowner wants a pool or addition added on or they are preparing to put the home on the market. Whatever the reason, homeowners should consider if their home renovations will impact their home insurance policy. Ensuring that your homeowners policy protects your finances should a covered disaster damage or destroy your home can mean the difference between paying a deductible and having to pay a large amount out of pocket.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Renovations that increase home insurance rates</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A major renovation can greatly increase the value of your home and the cost of your home insurance. A recent analysis conducted by the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) showed that homes’ replacement values increased by more than 13% in the past year due to inflation and supply chain issues, so it is important to assess your coverage when completing a renovation project. You should know what you can expect if you plan to proceed with one of the more popular home renovations.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Building a swimming pool</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">In certain locations, adding a pool to your home can increase its value and offer an incentive to would-be buyers. However, a swimming pool is considered an “attractive nuisance” and significantly increases your liability risk, which will likely increase your homeowners insurance premium.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A standard homeowners insurance policy usually includes liability coverage, which is designed to help cover medical costs for a person injured on your property and legal expenses if you are sued. However, an insurance agent may recommend that a pool owner opts for higher liability coverage than what is standard. Homeowners might also consider purchasing an umbrella insurance policy, which provides additional liability coverage for greater financial protection if a covered claim exceeds the homeowners liability coverage amount.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Your insurance carrier may also require a locking fence around the pool and/or a locking safety cover to go over the water when the pool is not in use, which can drive up the cost of installing a swimming pool. If the pool has a diving board or slide, it will likely be considered a greater potential hazard by your insurer, who may decide to not provide coverage or charge a much higher premium to offset the higher liability risk.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Adding an office for a home business</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Working remotely has become more common during the pandemic, so adding an office could increase your home’s value if you are a remote worker or home-based business owner. However, it could also increase your homeowners insurance rates or require you to purchase an endorsement to increase coverage for business-related assets and equipment, or a separate home business policy that provides protection against crime and worker injuries.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Most homeowners policies protect equipment for home-based businesses up to about $2,500, though you may be able to increase this amount, depending on the company. That might not be enough for a business owner who uses specialized machinery or stores large amounts of supplies or inventory at their home.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Some carriers may include a home insurance exclusion for business use of personal property in your home, so be sure to talk to your agent if you have work-use items in your home and make sure you have the right level of coverage. Additionally, homeowners insurance companies might not cover liability related to the business.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You may need to bolster your existing policy or purchase an additional business policy. This is particularly true if your business is the type that creates heavier foot traffic in your home, such as piano lessons or private yoga sessions.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you do need to bolster your business coverage, you may have a few options, depending on your insurance provider:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><strong>Endorsement to your existing homeowners policy:</strong>&nbsp;This option would increase the existing limit on business property included in your homeowners policy.</li><li><strong>Businessowners policy:</strong>&nbsp;This is a separate policy designed specifically for insuring a business, and it includes an array of coverages.</li><li><strong>In-home business insurance:</strong>&nbsp;This type of insurance features the same protection you would get if you were a larger company with smaller policy limits and premiums.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Regardless of the scope of your business, you should let your agent know if you have any business risk in your home, to make sure that you are covered properly.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Expanding your space</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Sometimes a home needs to be changed to accommodate an expanding family. That can mean modifying a floor plan and adding more livable square footage, like finishing a basement or attic. In other instances, a new addition may be in order. Expanding your space with new square footage will most likely increase your home insurance premium as you will need a higher level of dwelling coverage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You might need more post-renovation insurance even if the added space is not inside your house. Adding a large finished deck could increase the value of your home, for example, and consequently, require an insurance reassessment. You may also need to consider other types of coverage for the newly built areas of your home. For example, a finished basement with new carpet, drywall and insulation may need sewer backup coverage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Ultimately, if you expand your usable square footage indoors or outside, your insurance coverage will probably need to be altered to account for the value of the new space. With floor plan renovations, it’s best to talk to your insurance agent or insurance company to discuss if you need to alter your policy before renovations begin.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Upgrading your kitchen or bath</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">According to the 2022 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling Magazine, a kitchen or bathroom remodel can provide more than 50% in recouped value. If you make quality upgrades, like changing out laminate for granite countertops or having custom cabinets built, you may need to increase the dwelling coverage on your home insurance, which usually comes at an additional premium cost. If your home coverage is not enough to rebuild your new kitchen or bath with the same newly upgraded materials, consider increasing the dwelling coverage to align with your upgrades.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If your existing coverage is not sufficient, you might find yourself having to pay out of pocket for some of the damages to your kitchen or bath after a covered loss. Your insurance agent can use your property insurance company’s home valuation tool to determine if coverage changes are needed to ensure you have the right level of property replacement value.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Renovations that lower home insurance rates</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you are making changes that make your home safer, like updated electrical or plumbing systems, you could see lower rates after you and your insurance provider evaluate your home renovation insurance needs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Renovating or replacing your roof</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Installing a new roof may not be the most exciting home improvement, but it can save you money on your homeowners insurance. Upgrading old appliances, like the HVAC system, and replacing your roof usually means a reduction in premium because your home is better protected with new materials.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Some homeowners can earn even bigger discounts if they live in hurricane-, wind- or hail-prone states and their new roof employs special loss-mitigation measures, such as hurricane straps, waterproofing or impact-resistant shingles.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">While most home policies cover roof replacements for the perils defined in your policy, some insurers use depreciation schedules based on the age of the roof to determine how much coverage you get. The newer the roof, the more coverage you are likely to have from your home insurance policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Upgrading your wiring or plumbing</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you upgrade your wiring or plumbing systems, especially if they are older or no longer up to current building codes, you may qualify for an insurance discount. While rewiring a house can be expensive, it could also lower the risk of fires and electrical damage, which means insurance companies could charge you less for coverage because of reduced risk. If you have knob and tube wiring (used in most homes built before 1950), for example, you could see a drastic reduction in your premium and, you might even find that more insurance carriers are willing to insure your house, which means this could be a great time to shop your coverage and compare home insurance quotes.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The same holds true for plumbing. Some types of plumbing, like lead and polybutylene, can make it difficult and expensive to find home insurance coverage. Upgrading to more modern plumbing hardware may reduce the risk for water damage and reduce your home insurance premium.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Adding security systems and sprinklers</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Home security discounts are relatively common in the insurance industry, and there’s usually some variance in the savings levels. For example, if you install a local alarm system that rings at your home in the event of an intruder, you may earn a small discount. An alarm system that automatically alerts police or a central dispatch team for multiple incidents like burglary and fire would likely earn a higher discount. Interior sprinkler systems can also lower your premiums, as they reduce the risk of extensive fire damage. Installing smart home devices and systems can also earn you a discount on your homeowners insurance.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Do I need to increase my homeowners insurance after renovating?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Whether you need to increase your homeowners insurance coverage before or after renovating depends on the coverage you already have in place and the value and type of the renovation. When you choose an insurance company, part of your insurance rate is established by your home’s square footage and the cost required to fix or rebuild your home based on its age — including the age of appliances, like plumbing and HVAC systems — and characteristics, such as its building materials.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Insurance companies use valuation tools to determine how much home insurance coverage you need for the structure of your house. If the renovations increase that valuation, you may want to consider increasing your coverage, too. Without increased coverage, should a disastrous event occur, any improvements you have made may not be covered.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Another thing to consider is when significant improvements are made outside of your home, like adding a high-end shed or pool. They may not be covered unless your other structures coverage in your homeowner policy is sufficient. Be sure to let your insurance company know when you have done any type of work to your home so that it can perform a post-renovation valuation to accurately determine your new coverage needs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Additional home insurance coverage worth considering</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">When completing a home renovation, you should check to see if adding additional coverage is needed. While your current home insurance policy may have sufficient coverage already, you may need to make some changes while under construction:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><strong>Builders risk insurance:</strong> This coverage protects materials you have purchased to be installed, whether it is on your property or en route to your property. If it is damaged or stolen, builders risk insurance should cover the costs of replacement.</li><li><strong>Vacant home insurance:</strong> If you need to live outside of your home while renovations or remodeling is being done, you may want to consider vacant home insurance. This often overlooked home improvement insurance protects your home should any damage occur while you are not actively living in it.</li><li><strong>Contractors insurance:</strong> This could be an important coverage if you are hiring a third party to do a renovation. Contractors insurance provides coverage for property damage, injury or damage caused by the contractors working on your home. Be sure to ask your contractor if they are insured and obtain a copy of their Certificate of Liability Insurance before signing a contract to ensure they have an adequate level of commercial general liability (GCL) coverage, according to the Triple-I. This way, you know they have the financial protection to take care of insurance issues, such as damage to your home, that could arise during construction. A typical GCL policy includes $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate limit.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/homeowners-insurance/home-insurance-and-renovations/#additional\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','7 renovations that can impact your home insurance','','publish','closed','closed','','7-renovations-that-can-impact-your-home-insurance','','','2023-02-27 04:33:57','2023-02-27 04:33:57','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3032',0,'post','',0),(3033,1,'2023-02-27 04:27:43','2023-02-27 04:27:43','','Insurance-8','','inherit','closed','closed','','insurance-8-9','','','2023-02-27 04:27:43','2023-02-27 04:27:43','',3032,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-8.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3034,1,'2023-02-27 04:33:57','2023-02-27 04:33:57','<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3033,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-8.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3033\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Homeowners choose to do home renovations for a number of reasons. For instance, maybe the existing home no longer fits the family’s needs, the homeowner wants a pool or addition added on or they are preparing to put the home on the market. Whatever the reason, homeowners should consider if their home renovations will impact their home insurance policy. Ensuring that your homeowners policy protects your finances should a covered disaster damage or destroy your home can mean the difference between paying a deductible and having to pay a large amount out of pocket.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Renovations that increase home insurance rates</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A major renovation can greatly increase the value of your home and the cost of your home insurance. A recent analysis conducted by the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) showed that homes’ replacement values increased by more than 13% in the past year due to inflation and supply chain issues, so it is important to assess your coverage when completing a renovation project. You should know what you can expect if you plan to proceed with one of the more popular home renovations.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Building a swimming pool</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">In certain locations, adding a pool to your home can increase its value and offer an incentive to would-be buyers. However, a swimming pool is considered an “attractive nuisance” and significantly increases your liability risk, which will likely increase your homeowners insurance premium.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A standard homeowners insurance policy usually includes liability coverage, which is designed to help cover medical costs for a person injured on your property and legal expenses if you are sued. However, an insurance agent may recommend that a pool owner opts for higher liability coverage than what is standard. Homeowners might also consider purchasing an umbrella insurance policy, which provides additional liability coverage for greater financial protection if a covered claim exceeds the homeowners liability coverage amount.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Your insurance carrier may also require a locking fence around the pool and/or a locking safety cover to go over the water when the pool is not in use, which can drive up the cost of installing a swimming pool. If the pool has a diving board or slide, it will likely be considered a greater potential hazard by your insurer, who may decide to not provide coverage or charge a much higher premium to offset the higher liability risk.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Adding an office for a home business</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Working remotely has become more common during the pandemic, so adding an office could increase your home’s value if you are a remote worker or home-based business owner. However, it could also increase your homeowners insurance rates or require you to purchase an endorsement to increase coverage for business-related assets and equipment, or a separate home business policy that provides protection against crime and worker injuries.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Most homeowners policies protect equipment for home-based businesses up to about $2,500, though you may be able to increase this amount, depending on the company. That might not be enough for a business owner who uses specialized machinery or stores large amounts of supplies or inventory at their home.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Some carriers may include a home insurance exclusion for business use of personal property in your home, so be sure to talk to your agent if you have work-use items in your home and make sure you have the right level of coverage. Additionally, homeowners insurance companies might not cover liability related to the business.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You may need to bolster your existing policy or purchase an additional business policy. This is particularly true if your business is the type that creates heavier foot traffic in your home, such as piano lessons or private yoga sessions.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you do need to bolster your business coverage, you may have a few options, depending on your insurance provider:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><strong>Endorsement to your existing homeowners policy:</strong>&nbsp;This option would increase the existing limit on business property included in your homeowners policy.</li><li><strong>Businessowners policy:</strong>&nbsp;This is a separate policy designed specifically for insuring a business, and it includes an array of coverages.</li><li><strong>In-home business insurance:</strong>&nbsp;This type of insurance features the same protection you would get if you were a larger company with smaller policy limits and premiums.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Regardless of the scope of your business, you should let your agent know if you have any business risk in your home, to make sure that you are covered properly.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Expanding your space</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Sometimes a home needs to be changed to accommodate an expanding family. That can mean modifying a floor plan and adding more livable square footage, like finishing a basement or attic. In other instances, a new addition may be in order. Expanding your space with new square footage will most likely increase your home insurance premium as you will need a higher level of dwelling coverage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You might need more post-renovation insurance even if the added space is not inside your house. Adding a large finished deck could increase the value of your home, for example, and consequently, require an insurance reassessment. You may also need to consider other types of coverage for the newly built areas of your home. For example, a finished basement with new carpet, drywall and insulation may need sewer backup coverage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Ultimately, if you expand your usable square footage indoors or outside, your insurance coverage will probably need to be altered to account for the value of the new space. With floor plan renovations, it’s best to talk to your insurance agent or insurance company to discuss if you need to alter your policy before renovations begin.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Upgrading your kitchen or bath</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">According to the 2022 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling Magazine, a kitchen or bathroom remodel can provide more than 50% in recouped value. If you make quality upgrades, like changing out laminate for granite countertops or having custom cabinets built, you may need to increase the dwelling coverage on your home insurance, which usually comes at an additional premium cost. If your home coverage is not enough to rebuild your new kitchen or bath with the same newly upgraded materials, consider increasing the dwelling coverage to align with your upgrades.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If your existing coverage is not sufficient, you might find yourself having to pay out of pocket for some of the damages to your kitchen or bath after a covered loss. Your insurance agent can use your property insurance company’s home valuation tool to determine if coverage changes are needed to ensure you have the right level of property replacement value.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Renovations that lower home insurance rates</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you are making changes that make your home safer, like updated electrical or plumbing systems, you could see lower rates after you and your insurance provider evaluate your home renovation insurance needs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Renovating or replacing your roof</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Installing a new roof may not be the most exciting home improvement, but it can save you money on your homeowners insurance. Upgrading old appliances, like the HVAC system, and replacing your roof usually means a reduction in premium because your home is better protected with new materials.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Some homeowners can earn even bigger discounts if they live in hurricane-, wind- or hail-prone states and their new roof employs special loss-mitigation measures, such as hurricane straps, waterproofing or impact-resistant shingles.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">While most home policies cover roof replacements for the perils defined in your policy, some insurers use depreciation schedules based on the age of the roof to determine how much coverage you get. The newer the roof, the more coverage you are likely to have from your home insurance policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Upgrading your wiring or plumbing</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you upgrade your wiring or plumbing systems, especially if they are older or no longer up to current building codes, you may qualify for an insurance discount. While rewiring a house can be expensive, it could also lower the risk of fires and electrical damage, which means insurance companies could charge you less for coverage because of reduced risk. If you have knob and tube wiring (used in most homes built before 1950), for example, you could see a drastic reduction in your premium and, you might even find that more insurance carriers are willing to insure your house, which means this could be a great time to shop your coverage and compare home insurance quotes.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The same holds true for plumbing. Some types of plumbing, like lead and polybutylene, can make it difficult and expensive to find home insurance coverage. Upgrading to more modern plumbing hardware may reduce the risk for water damage and reduce your home insurance premium.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Adding security systems and sprinklers</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Home security discounts are relatively common in the insurance industry, and there’s usually some variance in the savings levels. For example, if you install a local alarm system that rings at your home in the event of an intruder, you may earn a small discount. An alarm system that automatically alerts police or a central dispatch team for multiple incidents like burglary and fire would likely earn a higher discount. Interior sprinkler systems can also lower your premiums, as they reduce the risk of extensive fire damage. Installing smart home devices and systems can also earn you a discount on your homeowners insurance.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Do I need to increase my homeowners insurance after renovating?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Whether you need to increase your homeowners insurance coverage before or after renovating depends on the coverage you already have in place and the value and type of the renovation. When you choose an insurance company, part of your insurance rate is established by your home’s square footage and the cost required to fix or rebuild your home based on its age — including the age of appliances, like plumbing and HVAC systems — and characteristics, such as its building materials.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Insurance companies use valuation tools to determine how much home insurance coverage you need for the structure of your house. If the renovations increase that valuation, you may want to consider increasing your coverage, too. Without increased coverage, should a disastrous event occur, any improvements you have made may not be covered.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Another thing to consider is when significant improvements are made outside of your home, like adding a high-end shed or pool. They may not be covered unless your other structures coverage in your homeowner policy is sufficient. Be sure to let your insurance company know when you have done any type of work to your home so that it can perform a post-renovation valuation to accurately determine your new coverage needs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Additional home insurance coverage worth considering</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">When completing a home renovation, you should check to see if adding additional coverage is needed. While your current home insurance policy may have sufficient coverage already, you may need to make some changes while under construction:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><strong>Builders risk insurance:</strong> This coverage protects materials you have purchased to be installed, whether it is on your property or en route to your property. If it is damaged or stolen, builders risk insurance should cover the costs of replacement.</li><li><strong>Vacant home insurance:</strong> If you need to live outside of your home while renovations or remodeling is being done, you may want to consider vacant home insurance. This often overlooked home improvement insurance protects your home should any damage occur while you are not actively living in it.</li><li><strong>Contractors insurance:</strong> This could be an important coverage if you are hiring a third party to do a renovation. Contractors insurance provides coverage for property damage, injury or damage caused by the contractors working on your home. Be sure to ask your contractor if they are insured and obtain a copy of their Certificate of Liability Insurance before signing a contract to ensure they have an adequate level of commercial general liability (GCL) coverage, according to the Triple-I. This way, you know they have the financial protection to take care of insurance issues, such as damage to your home, that could arise during construction. A typical GCL policy includes $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate limit.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/homeowners-insurance/home-insurance-and-renovations/#additional\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','7 renovations that can impact your home insurance','','inherit','closed','closed','','3032-revision-v1','','','2023-02-27 04:33:57','2023-02-27 04:33:57','',3032,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3034',0,'revision','',0),(3035,1,'2023-02-27 04:50:41','2023-02-27 04:50:41','<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3036,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-9.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3036\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">When you have more than one driver in the household, getting car insurance for multiple drivers is the best way to ensure all drivers are covered and may save you some money off your car insurance premiums. One auto insurance policy can include multiple drivers and vehicles in many cases and can affect rates by making you eligible for more discounts.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Since adding more drivers can impact your car insurance rates, according to Bankrate’s data, it may make sense to shop for the best carrier and rate for multiple drivers. The national average cost of car insurance is $1,771 per year for one driver and $1,668 per year for two drivers on the same policy with a married discount. Insuring multiple drivers may be a requirement in many cases but combining policies can often earn you savings off your car insurance, and shopping around can help you understand your savings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Can multiple drivers share a car insurance policy?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Yes, multiple drivers can share a car insurance policy under certain conditions. With most auto insurance companies, you are required to list all household members on your policy if they have a valid driver’s license and access to your vehicle.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Spouses and other household members can share a car insurance policy in many scenarios. In fact, it is usually required by insurance companies to insure all drivers so that the carrier is aware of the household risk while insuring your vehicle. If someone you are not related to lives in your household, you may have to add them as a driver depending on how often they drive your vehicle and your car insurance company’s guidelines. For example, a few companies require roommates to be listed, but others do not have that requirement if your roommate has their own insurance policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">In addition, you cannot add drivers for the sake of consolidating bills or earning discounts. To share a policy, you must have a need to do so, whether from regularly driving the vehicle, shared ownership in the vehicle, or your carrier’s requirements.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">With multiple drivers on the same policy, premiums are based on each driver’s risk. This means insurance companies will pull everyone’s motor vehicle records and claims history to determine risk. In turn, insurance companies will calculate a total premium, and you will get one bill to pay.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">What is a multi-car insurance policy?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A multi-car insurance policy includes more than one vehicle on the same policy and may have more than one driver. Most auto insurance companies offer a multi-vehicle discount if you insure more than one car. The make and model of the cars you own and the coverage you choose for each reflects in the total cost of insurance.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Best companies for multiple drivers</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The best car insurance companies for multiple drivers may not be the same for everyone. Getting the best deal on car insurance is based on several factors, including driver-specific information such as age, marital status and ticket and accident history. While factors such as age and marital status do not impact premiums in all states, they may influence which company multiple drivers decide is best for them if they are insured on the same policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">These companies allow multiple drivers to be added to the same policy and also offer a multi-car discount for more than one car insured in the same household.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:table -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Insurance company</th><th>Average annual full coverage premium</th><th>Average annual minimum coverage premium</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Amica</td><td>$1,537</td><td>$456</td></tr><tr><td>Geico</td><td>$1,263</td><td>$362</td></tr><tr><td>Liberty Mutual</td><td>Rate unavailable</td><td>Rate unavailable</td></tr><tr><td>Nationwide</td><td>$1,343</td><td>$550</td></tr><tr><td>State Farm</td><td>$1,392</td><td>$454</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>\n<!-- /wp:table -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><em>*Premiums based on married policyholders</em></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><strong>Amica</strong> – With Amica, you can save up to 25 percent by insuring multiple vehicles and up to 30 percent for buying more than one insurance product from the carrier. Amica also rewards loyalty, offering a discount for staying insured with the company and for children of current policyholders as a legacy discount if they get their own policy with Amica before turning 30. There are several other opportunities for discounts with Amica, like being claims-free or a homeowner.</li><li><strong>Geico</strong> – With Geico, you can add multiple drivers to your car insurance policy. You can save up to 25 percent by insuring more than one vehicle with the company. If you also insure your home or renters insurance with Geico, you may be eligible to save with a multi-policy discount.</li><li><strong>Liberty Mutual</strong> – Safe drivers may be eligible for the accident-free and violation-free discounts with Liberty Mutual for maintaining a clean record. There are also discounts for having more than one car and your home or renters insurance with the company. Discount amounts vary by state and insurance products purchased.</li><li><strong>Nationwide</strong> – At Nationwide, the more you bundle, the more you may save. Nationwide offers a multi-car discount, plus a multi-policy discount if you insure your home, renters, boat, life insurance or motorcycle with the insurer. Eligible drivers can also stack discounts for being accident free, a good student and a safe driver with no tickets or accidents in the last five years.</li><li><strong>State Farm</strong> – If you have a young driver in the household, State Farm offers several discounts that can make it more affordable to insure this age group. The Steer Clear program is designed to make drivers more attentive and aware, rewarding them for good driving habits. Students can also get a good student discount if they have a B or above average. You can save up to 20 percent with the multi-vehicle discount and up to $1,127 when combining home and auto insurance with State Farm.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">How to find cheap car insurance for multiple drivers</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">One of the best ways to find cheap car insurance for multiple drivers is to shop around with different carriers. Each company has its own risk guidelines, discounts and rate structures that can change how much you pay for car insurance for multiple drivers. Each person’s driving record and claims history will be reviewed, so if one driver has a risky background, it could increase the cost of the entire policy or affect eligibility with a particular carrier.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">While there is an increased likelihood of risk, a multiple driver policy may also make you eligible for more savings opportunities. You may be able to keep the price low with other discounts, like insuring more than one product, being affiliated with an organization, being a safe driver, having low annual mileage and driving a car with safety features. Additionally, if another household member has a clean record and experienced driving history, it can beneficially impact the rate.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/car/multiple-drivers/#methodology\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Car insurance for multiple drivers','','publish','closed','closed','','car-insurance-for-multiple-drivers','','','2023-02-27 04:50:41','2023-02-27 04:50:41','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3035',0,'post','',0),(3036,1,'2023-02-27 04:44:46','2023-02-27 04:44:46','','Insurance-9','','inherit','closed','closed','','insurance-9-8','','','2023-02-27 04:44:46','2023-02-27 04:44:46','',3035,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-9.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3037,1,'2023-02-27 04:50:41','2023-02-27 04:50:41','<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3036,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-9.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3036\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">When you have more than one driver in the household, getting car insurance for multiple drivers is the best way to ensure all drivers are covered and may save you some money off your car insurance premiums. One auto insurance policy can include multiple drivers and vehicles in many cases and can affect rates by making you eligible for more discounts.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Since adding more drivers can impact your car insurance rates, according to Bankrate’s data, it may make sense to shop for the best carrier and rate for multiple drivers. The national average cost of car insurance is $1,771 per year for one driver and $1,668 per year for two drivers on the same policy with a married discount. Insuring multiple drivers may be a requirement in many cases but combining policies can often earn you savings off your car insurance, and shopping around can help you understand your savings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Can multiple drivers share a car insurance policy?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Yes, multiple drivers can share a car insurance policy under certain conditions. With most auto insurance companies, you are required to list all household members on your policy if they have a valid driver’s license and access to your vehicle.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Spouses and other household members can share a car insurance policy in many scenarios. In fact, it is usually required by insurance companies to insure all drivers so that the carrier is aware of the household risk while insuring your vehicle. If someone you are not related to lives in your household, you may have to add them as a driver depending on how often they drive your vehicle and your car insurance company’s guidelines. For example, a few companies require roommates to be listed, but others do not have that requirement if your roommate has their own insurance policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">In addition, you cannot add drivers for the sake of consolidating bills or earning discounts. To share a policy, you must have a need to do so, whether from regularly driving the vehicle, shared ownership in the vehicle, or your carrier’s requirements.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">With multiple drivers on the same policy, premiums are based on each driver’s risk. This means insurance companies will pull everyone’s motor vehicle records and claims history to determine risk. In turn, insurance companies will calculate a total premium, and you will get one bill to pay.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">What is a multi-car insurance policy?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A multi-car insurance policy includes more than one vehicle on the same policy and may have more than one driver. Most auto insurance companies offer a multi-vehicle discount if you insure more than one car. The make and model of the cars you own and the coverage you choose for each reflects in the total cost of insurance.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Best companies for multiple drivers</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The best car insurance companies for multiple drivers may not be the same for everyone. Getting the best deal on car insurance is based on several factors, including driver-specific information such as age, marital status and ticket and accident history. While factors such as age and marital status do not impact premiums in all states, they may influence which company multiple drivers decide is best for them if they are insured on the same policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">These companies allow multiple drivers to be added to the same policy and also offer a multi-car discount for more than one car insured in the same household.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:table -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Insurance company</th><th>Average annual full coverage premium</th><th>Average annual minimum coverage premium</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Amica</td><td>$1,537</td><td>$456</td></tr><tr><td>Geico</td><td>$1,263</td><td>$362</td></tr><tr><td>Liberty Mutual</td><td>Rate unavailable</td><td>Rate unavailable</td></tr><tr><td>Nationwide</td><td>$1,343</td><td>$550</td></tr><tr><td>State Farm</td><td>$1,392</td><td>$454</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>\n<!-- /wp:table -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><em>*Premiums based on married policyholders</em></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><strong>Amica</strong> – With Amica, you can save up to 25 percent by insuring multiple vehicles and up to 30 percent for buying more than one insurance product from the carrier. Amica also rewards loyalty, offering a discount for staying insured with the company and for children of current policyholders as a legacy discount if they get their own policy with Amica before turning 30. There are several other opportunities for discounts with Amica, like being claims-free or a homeowner.</li><li><strong>Geico</strong> – With Geico, you can add multiple drivers to your car insurance policy. You can save up to 25 percent by insuring more than one vehicle with the company. If you also insure your home or renters insurance with Geico, you may be eligible to save with a multi-policy discount.</li><li><strong>Liberty Mutual</strong> – Safe drivers may be eligible for the accident-free and violation-free discounts with Liberty Mutual for maintaining a clean record. There are also discounts for having more than one car and your home or renters insurance with the company. Discount amounts vary by state and insurance products purchased.</li><li><strong>Nationwide</strong> – At Nationwide, the more you bundle, the more you may save. Nationwide offers a multi-car discount, plus a multi-policy discount if you insure your home, renters, boat, life insurance or motorcycle with the insurer. Eligible drivers can also stack discounts for being accident free, a good student and a safe driver with no tickets or accidents in the last five years.</li><li><strong>State Farm</strong> – If you have a young driver in the household, State Farm offers several discounts that can make it more affordable to insure this age group. The Steer Clear program is designed to make drivers more attentive and aware, rewarding them for good driving habits. Students can also get a good student discount if they have a B or above average. You can save up to 20 percent with the multi-vehicle discount and up to $1,127 when combining home and auto insurance with State Farm.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">How to find cheap car insurance for multiple drivers</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">One of the best ways to find cheap car insurance for multiple drivers is to shop around with different carriers. Each company has its own risk guidelines, discounts and rate structures that can change how much you pay for car insurance for multiple drivers. Each person’s driving record and claims history will be reviewed, so if one driver has a risky background, it could increase the cost of the entire policy or affect eligibility with a particular carrier.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">While there is an increased likelihood of risk, a multiple driver policy may also make you eligible for more savings opportunities. You may be able to keep the price low with other discounts, like insuring more than one product, being affiliated with an organization, being a safe driver, having low annual mileage and driving a car with safety features. Additionally, if another household member has a clean record and experienced driving history, it can beneficially impact the rate.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/car/multiple-drivers/#methodology\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Car insurance for multiple drivers','','inherit','closed','closed','','3035-revision-v1','','','2023-02-27 04:50:41','2023-02-27 04:50:41','',3035,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3037',0,'revision','',0),(3038,1,'2023-02-27 05:11:09','2023-02-27 05:11:09','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Should you have both?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3039,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-10.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3039\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">If you own a house or plan to buy one, you may wonder what the difference is between a home warranty and home insurance. After all, both safeguard your investment—and your pocketbook—if something goes wrong. Still, home warranties and home insurance policies offer distinct types of protection. Knowing what each one covers can help you decide if you need both.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\"><strong>KEY TAKEAWAYS</strong></h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>A home warranty provides discounted repair and replacement services for household appliances and systems, such as the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems.</li><li>Home insurance protects your home and personal belongings against major perils like fires, windstorms, and theft. It also provides liability protection if someone is injured while on your property.</li><li>If you have a mortgage, your lender may require you to buy a home insurance policy. A home warranty is optional.</li><li>For the greatest peace of mind, consider buying both a home warranty and a home insurance policy.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-4\">What Is a Home Warranty?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-5\">A home warranty is a service contract that helps pay for repairs and replacements of covered household appliances and home systems. In exchange for a monthly or annual fee, you get a flat rate on service calls.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-7\">If an appliance or system covered by your plan breaks down, your home warranty company sends out a technician to diagnose and fix the problem—and you pay just the service call fee. Of course, these plans have coverage limits: A contract may cover up to, say, $1,500 per year for each eligible appliance, with an annual claim limit of $15,000.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-9\">If you receive a home warranty as part of a real estate transaction, the coverage usually starts as soon as you close on the home. However, if you buy a warranty for a house you already own, you may have to wait 15 to 30 days before the coverage takes effect.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-13\">What Does a Home Warranty Cover?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-14\">Home warranties cover appliances and systems in both new and pre-owned homes. Most home warranty companies offer three types of plans:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ol id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-16\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Appliance Plans (e.g., washer/dryer, dishwasher, and refrigerator)</li><li>System Plans (e.g., HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems)</li><li>Combination Plan (everything included in the appliance and system plans)</li></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-18\">Most companies let you add coverage (for an extra fee) for specific items that are excluded from the standard plans. Common \"add-ons\" include pools, spas, septic systems, wells, lawn sprinkler systems, and additional appliances (e.g., a second dishwasher or air conditioner).</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-20\">How Much Does a Home Warranty Cost?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-21\">Home warranty costs are based on two fees:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ol id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-23\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><strong>A monthly or annual fee.</strong>&nbsp;This is what you pay to access the discounted service calls. Depending on where you live and the plan you buy, you might pay anywhere from $350 to more than $1,100 per year.</li><li><strong>A service fee.</strong>&nbsp;This is the amount you pay each time you request repairs for a covered appliance or system. Most companies offer several service fee \"levels,\" which might range from about $55 to $150 per service call. In general, the lower the service fee, the higher your monthly or annual fee will be, and vice versa.</li></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-25\">What Is Homeowners Insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-26\">Home insurance (a.k.a., homeowners insurance) is a type of property insurance that protects against losses and damages caused by covered perils. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), a standard homeowners insurance policy includes four essential types of coverage:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ol id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-28\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><strong>Coverage for the structure of the home: </strong>This pays to repair or rebuild the house if it\'s damaged or destroyed by a covered peril. Most policies cover other structures on the property, too, such as garages, tool sheds, decks, and gazebos.</li><li><strong>Coverage for personal belongings:</strong> This covers your furniture, clothes, sports equipment, and other personal belongings if they are stolen or destroyed by a covered peril. If you have expensive items, you may need a special personal property endorsement or a floater to ensure you\'re adequately protected.</li><li><strong>Liability protection:</strong> Liability coverage protects against lawsuits for injuries and property damage that policyholders, their family members, and their pets cause to other people.</li><li><strong>Additional living expenses:</strong> This pays for hotels, meals, and other living expenses if your house is uninhabitable due to a covered peril.</li></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-30\">What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-31\">The most popular home insurance policy is the HO-3, which covers your home, belongings, and liability. According to the III, HO-3 policies provide broad coverage and protect against 16 disasters and perils:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ol id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-33\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Fire or lightning</li><li>Windstorm or hail</li><li>Explosion</li><li>Riot or civil commotion</li><li>Damage caused by aircraft</li><li>Damage caused by vehicles</li><li>Smoke</li><li>Vandalism or malicious mischief</li><li>Theft</li><li>Volcanic eruption</li><li>Falling object</li><li>Weight of ice, snow, or sleet</li><li>Accidental discharge or overflow of water or steam from a plumbing, HVAC, or automatic fire-protective sprinkler system, or from a household appliance</li><li>Sudden and accidental tearing apart, cracking, burning, or bulging of a steam or hot water heating system, an air conditioner, or an automatic fire-protective system</li><li>Freezing of a plumbing, HVAC, or automatic fire-protective sprinkler system, or of a household appliance</li><li>Sudden and accidental damage from an artificially generated electrical current</li></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-35\">Homeowners insurance also covers your personal liability for injuries to other people (those who don\'t live with you) and their property while they are on your property. The most common liability claims involve dog bites, home accidents, falling trees, intoxicated guests, and injured domestic workers.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-37\">Standard home insurance policies don\'t cover damage or losses caused by floods (whether natural or human-related) and earthquakes. Depending on where you live, it may be a good idea to add—or buy a separate policy for—flood or earthquake coverage. Ask your insurance agent if either is recommended in your area.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-39\">How Much Does Home Insurance Cost?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-40\">Your home insurance premium will depend on numerous factors:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-42\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Where you live</li><li>Your home\'s rebuilding costs</li><li>The value of your personal belongings</li><li>Your home\'s size, features, and condition</li><li>The deductible and coverage limits you choose</li><li>Your history of home insurance claims</li><li>Your marital status and credit score</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-44\">Something else that can affect home insurance costs: Dogs. If you have a \"dangerous\" dog breed, an insurance company could increase your premiums, exclude dog liability coverage from your policy, or deny coverage altogether.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Tip: If your insurer won\'t cover your dog, look for dog-specific liability insurance or an umbrella policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">These are the most common dog breeds that insurance companies deem risky:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-50\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Akitas</li><li>Alaskan malamutes</li><li>Chows</li><li>Doberman pinschers</li><li>German shepherds</li><li>Great Danes</li><li>Pit bulls</li><li>Presa canarios</li><li>Rottweilers</li><li>Siberian huskies</li><li>Staffordshire terriers</li><li>Wolf hybrids</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-52\">The Bottom Line</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-53\">Home warranties help cover costs when an appliance or major household system breaks down. Home insurance, on the other hand, covers your home and personal belongings against theft and other perils, and provides personal liability coverage, too. If you have a mortgage, your lender may require a home insurance policy. Of course, even if it\'s not required, it makes financial sense to protect your investment with a good insurance policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-55\">While home warranties are optional, they can provide an extra layer of protection and added peace of mind. They may make the most sense if your appliances and systems are no longer covered by a standard warranty, at risk of breaking down, or if they would be prohibitively expensive for you to replace.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-57\">Before you buy either a home warranty or a home insurance policy, read the fine print so you know exactly what it will—and will not—cover. If it doesn\'t fit your needs or your budget, find a policy that will. That way, you can avoid any surprises if something goes wrong.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/home-warranty-vs-home-insurance-5081270\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Home Warranty vs. Home Insurance','','publish','closed','closed','','home-warranty-vs-home-insurance','','','2023-02-27 05:11:09','2023-02-27 05:11:09','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3038',0,'post','',0),(3039,1,'2023-02-27 04:51:52','2023-02-27 04:51:52','','Insurance-10','','inherit','closed','closed','','insurance-10-9','','','2023-02-27 04:51:52','2023-02-27 04:51:52','',3038,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-10.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3040,1,'2023-02-27 05:11:09','2023-02-27 05:11:09','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Should you have both?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3039,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Insurance-10.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3039\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">If you own a house or plan to buy one, you may wonder what the difference is between a home warranty and home insurance. After all, both safeguard your investment—and your pocketbook—if something goes wrong. Still, home warranties and home insurance policies offer distinct types of protection. Knowing what each one covers can help you decide if you need both.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\"><strong>KEY TAKEAWAYS</strong></h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>A home warranty provides discounted repair and replacement services for household appliances and systems, such as the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems.</li><li>Home insurance protects your home and personal belongings against major perils like fires, windstorms, and theft. It also provides liability protection if someone is injured while on your property.</li><li>If you have a mortgage, your lender may require you to buy a home insurance policy. A home warranty is optional.</li><li>For the greatest peace of mind, consider buying both a home warranty and a home insurance policy.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-4\">What Is a Home Warranty?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-5\">A home warranty is a service contract that helps pay for repairs and replacements of covered household appliances and home systems. In exchange for a monthly or annual fee, you get a flat rate on service calls.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-7\">If an appliance or system covered by your plan breaks down, your home warranty company sends out a technician to diagnose and fix the problem—and you pay just the service call fee. Of course, these plans have coverage limits: A contract may cover up to, say, $1,500 per year for each eligible appliance, with an annual claim limit of $15,000.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-9\">If you receive a home warranty as part of a real estate transaction, the coverage usually starts as soon as you close on the home. However, if you buy a warranty for a house you already own, you may have to wait 15 to 30 days before the coverage takes effect.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-13\">What Does a Home Warranty Cover?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-14\">Home warranties cover appliances and systems in both new and pre-owned homes. Most home warranty companies offer three types of plans:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ol id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-16\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Appliance Plans (e.g., washer/dryer, dishwasher, and refrigerator)</li><li>System Plans (e.g., HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems)</li><li>Combination Plan (everything included in the appliance and system plans)</li></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-18\">Most companies let you add coverage (for an extra fee) for specific items that are excluded from the standard plans. Common \"add-ons\" include pools, spas, septic systems, wells, lawn sprinkler systems, and additional appliances (e.g., a second dishwasher or air conditioner).</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-20\">How Much Does a Home Warranty Cost?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-21\">Home warranty costs are based on two fees:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ol id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-23\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><strong>A monthly or annual fee.</strong>&nbsp;This is what you pay to access the discounted service calls. Depending on where you live and the plan you buy, you might pay anywhere from $350 to more than $1,100 per year.</li><li><strong>A service fee.</strong>&nbsp;This is the amount you pay each time you request repairs for a covered appliance or system. Most companies offer several service fee \"levels,\" which might range from about $55 to $150 per service call. In general, the lower the service fee, the higher your monthly or annual fee will be, and vice versa.</li></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-25\">What Is Homeowners Insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-26\">Home insurance (a.k.a., homeowners insurance) is a type of property insurance that protects against losses and damages caused by covered perils. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), a standard homeowners insurance policy includes four essential types of coverage:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ol id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-28\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li><strong>Coverage for the structure of the home: </strong>This pays to repair or rebuild the house if it\'s damaged or destroyed by a covered peril. Most policies cover other structures on the property, too, such as garages, tool sheds, decks, and gazebos.</li><li><strong>Coverage for personal belongings:</strong> This covers your furniture, clothes, sports equipment, and other personal belongings if they are stolen or destroyed by a covered peril. If you have expensive items, you may need a special personal property endorsement or a floater to ensure you\'re adequately protected.</li><li><strong>Liability protection:</strong> Liability coverage protects against lawsuits for injuries and property damage that policyholders, their family members, and their pets cause to other people.</li><li><strong>Additional living expenses:</strong> This pays for hotels, meals, and other living expenses if your house is uninhabitable due to a covered peril.</li></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-30\">What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-31\">The most popular home insurance policy is the HO-3, which covers your home, belongings, and liability. According to the III, HO-3 policies provide broad coverage and protect against 16 disasters and perils:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ol id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-33\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Fire or lightning</li><li>Windstorm or hail</li><li>Explosion</li><li>Riot or civil commotion</li><li>Damage caused by aircraft</li><li>Damage caused by vehicles</li><li>Smoke</li><li>Vandalism or malicious mischief</li><li>Theft</li><li>Volcanic eruption</li><li>Falling object</li><li>Weight of ice, snow, or sleet</li><li>Accidental discharge or overflow of water or steam from a plumbing, HVAC, or automatic fire-protective sprinkler system, or from a household appliance</li><li>Sudden and accidental tearing apart, cracking, burning, or bulging of a steam or hot water heating system, an air conditioner, or an automatic fire-protective system</li><li>Freezing of a plumbing, HVAC, or automatic fire-protective sprinkler system, or of a household appliance</li><li>Sudden and accidental damage from an artificially generated electrical current</li></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-35\">Homeowners insurance also covers your personal liability for injuries to other people (those who don\'t live with you) and their property while they are on your property. The most common liability claims involve dog bites, home accidents, falling trees, intoxicated guests, and injured domestic workers.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-37\">Standard home insurance policies don\'t cover damage or losses caused by floods (whether natural or human-related) and earthquakes. Depending on where you live, it may be a good idea to add—or buy a separate policy for—flood or earthquake coverage. Ask your insurance agent if either is recommended in your area.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-39\">How Much Does Home Insurance Cost?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-40\">Your home insurance premium will depend on numerous factors:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-42\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Where you live</li><li>Your home\'s rebuilding costs</li><li>The value of your personal belongings</li><li>Your home\'s size, features, and condition</li><li>The deductible and coverage limits you choose</li><li>Your history of home insurance claims</li><li>Your marital status and credit score</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-44\">Something else that can affect home insurance costs: Dogs. If you have a \"dangerous\" dog breed, an insurance company could increase your premiums, exclude dog liability coverage from your policy, or deny coverage altogether.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Tip: If your insurer won\'t cover your dog, look for dog-specific liability insurance or an umbrella policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">These are the most common dog breeds that insurance companies deem risky:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-50\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Akitas</li><li>Alaskan malamutes</li><li>Chows</li><li>Doberman pinschers</li><li>German shepherds</li><li>Great Danes</li><li>Pit bulls</li><li>Presa canarios</li><li>Rottweilers</li><li>Siberian huskies</li><li>Staffordshire terriers</li><li>Wolf hybrids</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-52\">The Bottom Line</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-53\">Home warranties help cover costs when an appliance or major household system breaks down. Home insurance, on the other hand, covers your home and personal belongings against theft and other perils, and provides personal liability coverage, too. If you have a mortgage, your lender may require a home insurance policy. Of course, even if it\'s not required, it makes financial sense to protect your investment with a good insurance policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-55\">While home warranties are optional, they can provide an extra layer of protection and added peace of mind. They may make the most sense if your appliances and systems are no longer covered by a standard warranty, at risk of breaking down, or if they would be prohibitively expensive for you to replace.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-57\">Before you buy either a home warranty or a home insurance policy, read the fine print so you know exactly what it will—and will not—cover. If it doesn\'t fit your needs or your budget, find a policy that will. That way, you can avoid any surprises if something goes wrong.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/home-warranty-vs-home-insurance-5081270\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Home Warranty vs. Home Insurance','','inherit','closed','closed','','3038-revision-v1','','','2023-02-27 05:11:09','2023-02-27 05:11:09','',3038,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3040',0,'revision','',0),(3042,1,'2023-03-29 01:37:15','2023-03-29 01:37:15','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Putting money in the bank is smart, but too much cash savings can actually be a poor use of that money.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3043,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Money-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3043\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">Saving money and putting personal finance tips into practice can be challenging. Tucking away money for an emergency fund, much less a down payment on a house, retirement, or a child\'s college tuition, can take years of steady saving and a huge amount of discipline. Of course, barring catastrophe, once you establish those emergency savings and develop positive spending and saving habits, staying on top of your finances gets a whole lot easier.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\">Once you\'re no longer living paycheck to paycheck and have money tucked away to cover a medical emergency, a job loss, or a vacation, you\'ve reached a state of financial stability—but that doesn\'t mean you can just stop thinking about where your money is going. Turns out, it is possible to keep too much money in the bank, and tucking all of your savings there can actually hurt your long-term financial goals.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-4\">That\'s not to say you shouldn\'t keep&nbsp;<em>any&nbsp;</em>money in the bank. Liquid savings—money that is easily accessible without incurring a fee, should the need arise—is necessary for well-balanced financial health.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-6\">For most people, those savings take the form of an emergency fund. \"When thinking about your overall savings, one should consider an emergency fund as a part of the mix,\" says Shirley Yang, vice president of Marcus by Goldman Sachs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-10\">Where To Keep Your Emergency Fund</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-11\">Yang says most financial experts agree that your emergency savings should include six months\' worth of living expenses, but the actual number depends on your financial stability. Lauren Anastasio, certified financial planner at SoFi, says three to six months\' worth of expenses is a good rule of thumb. If you work in a stable industry, are in good health, and live in an area with a low cost of living, you may be able to get away with putting less money—only three months of expenses—in your emergency fund; if there\'s a chance that large expenses (or layoffs) may pop up in your future, socking away more money may be smarter.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-13\">\"This money should be kept separate from your regular checking account to avoid accidental spending or the temptation to use funds for anything other than an emergency,\" Anastasio says.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-15\">Keeping those savings in a bank account (instead of an investment account) means you can access them when you need to, but it also means you have a lot of money sitting in one place, depreciating with interest. To keep the value of your emergency fund high, keep it in a high-yield savings account; interest rates have plummeted during the coronavirus pandemic and economic crisis, but chances are that the 2 percent rates we enjoyed in 2019 will return at some point.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-17\">In the meantime, if you\'re looking for a place to keep your cash savings, research current rates and pick a bank with the highest possible rate. As the economy improves, interest rates will likely rise again. Remember that most online banks offer higher interest rates than their brick-and-mortar peers, put your money somewhere reliable, and settle in for a long wait.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-21\">How Much To Put In Your Checking Account</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-22\">With all that money tucked away in your savings account, what do you do with your checking account? This is probably the account you deposit paychecks into, pay bills from, and use to cover day-to-day expenses, so you definitely want some money there. But checking accounts are also notorious for having low interest rates, so the money you keep there isn\'t doing any work for you.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-24\">There\'s no one-size-fits-all answer to how much you should keep in your checking account, unfortunately, because everyone\'s monthly expenses are different. There are a few ways to determine how much to keep in the account, though.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-26\">If you like set numbers, Stash Wealth recommends a $2,000 to $3,000 cushion at most to account for the ebbs and flows of your money; that may be a little high for some people, especially if their expenses are on the low side.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-28\">Yang suggests calculating the best number for you based on your needs. \"Consumers should determine their estimated monthly expenses and keep enough in their checking account to cover those expenses,\" Yang says. \"Any additional funds left over, they should consider transferring to something that gets a higher-yield.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-30\">Anastasio says it depends on how much you\'re comfortable having in reserve. In general, though, \"a guideline that makes sense for your checking account is to keep the equivalent of one net paycheck,\" she says. \"This ensures the amount is right for everyone regardless of income level.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-32\">When You\'re Still Not Sure...</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-33\">At the end of the day, you need to determine how much of a cushion you need in your checking account to feel confident that you can cover all your expenses (and maybe even a few splurges). One of these guidelines might help you figure out what that number is; once you\'ve done that, you can rest assured that you\'re not keeping too much in the bank.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-35\">Keep in mind that some financial institutions charge penalties or fees if your checking account balance falls below a certain threshold. Find out what the rules for your accounts are and be sure to fulfill the requirements to avoid paying a fee. And the reverse is true, too: If your balance is too high—$250,000 high—it won\'t be covered by the FDIC; if you are keeping that much money in banks, spread it across accounts or institutions to make sure it\'s all insured.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-37\">Don\'t Forget Investments</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\">All your other money—because you\'re continuing to save, right?—should go into investments, where it might have a chance to grow and accumulate faster. (Letting your money earn money for you both helps your savings grow and takes some of the pressure off you.) Those can be CDs, bonds, stocks, mutual funds, or another of the many investing options out there, but you want your money to do a little work for you. If it\'s invested, it\'s hopefully growing, moving you a little closer to your financial goals.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/money/saving/checking-bank-account-balance-amount\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Are You Keeping Too Much Money in the Bank? Here\'s How to Tell','','publish','closed','closed','','are-you-keeping-too-much-money-in-the-bank-heres-how-to-tell','','','2023-03-29 01:37:15','2023-03-29 01:37:15','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3042',0,'post','',0),(3043,1,'2023-03-29 01:33:28','2023-03-29 01:33:28','','Money-1','','inherit','closed','closed','','money-1-11','','','2023-03-29 01:33:28','2023-03-29 01:33:28','',3042,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Money-1.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3044,1,'2023-03-29 01:37:15','2023-03-29 01:37:15','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Putting money in the bank is smart, but too much cash savings can actually be a poor use of that money.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3043,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Money-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3043\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">Saving money and putting personal finance tips into practice can be challenging. Tucking away money for an emergency fund, much less a down payment on a house, retirement, or a child\'s college tuition, can take years of steady saving and a huge amount of discipline. Of course, barring catastrophe, once you establish those emergency savings and develop positive spending and saving habits, staying on top of your finances gets a whole lot easier.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\">Once you\'re no longer living paycheck to paycheck and have money tucked away to cover a medical emergency, a job loss, or a vacation, you\'ve reached a state of financial stability—but that doesn\'t mean you can just stop thinking about where your money is going. Turns out, it is possible to keep too much money in the bank, and tucking all of your savings there can actually hurt your long-term financial goals.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-4\">That\'s not to say you shouldn\'t keep&nbsp;<em>any&nbsp;</em>money in the bank. Liquid savings—money that is easily accessible without incurring a fee, should the need arise—is necessary for well-balanced financial health.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-6\">For most people, those savings take the form of an emergency fund. \"When thinking about your overall savings, one should consider an emergency fund as a part of the mix,\" says Shirley Yang, vice president of Marcus by Goldman Sachs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-10\">Where To Keep Your Emergency Fund</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-11\">Yang says most financial experts agree that your emergency savings should include six months\' worth of living expenses, but the actual number depends on your financial stability. Lauren Anastasio, certified financial planner at SoFi, says three to six months\' worth of expenses is a good rule of thumb. If you work in a stable industry, are in good health, and live in an area with a low cost of living, you may be able to get away with putting less money—only three months of expenses—in your emergency fund; if there\'s a chance that large expenses (or layoffs) may pop up in your future, socking away more money may be smarter.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-13\">\"This money should be kept separate from your regular checking account to avoid accidental spending or the temptation to use funds for anything other than an emergency,\" Anastasio says.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-15\">Keeping those savings in a bank account (instead of an investment account) means you can access them when you need to, but it also means you have a lot of money sitting in one place, depreciating with interest. To keep the value of your emergency fund high, keep it in a high-yield savings account; interest rates have plummeted during the coronavirus pandemic and economic crisis, but chances are that the 2 percent rates we enjoyed in 2019 will return at some point.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-17\">In the meantime, if you\'re looking for a place to keep your cash savings, research current rates and pick a bank with the highest possible rate. As the economy improves, interest rates will likely rise again. Remember that most online banks offer higher interest rates than their brick-and-mortar peers, put your money somewhere reliable, and settle in for a long wait.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-21\">How Much To Put In Your Checking Account</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-22\">With all that money tucked away in your savings account, what do you do with your checking account? This is probably the account you deposit paychecks into, pay bills from, and use to cover day-to-day expenses, so you definitely want some money there. But checking accounts are also notorious for having low interest rates, so the money you keep there isn\'t doing any work for you.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-24\">There\'s no one-size-fits-all answer to how much you should keep in your checking account, unfortunately, because everyone\'s monthly expenses are different. There are a few ways to determine how much to keep in the account, though.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-26\">If you like set numbers, Stash Wealth recommends a $2,000 to $3,000 cushion at most to account for the ebbs and flows of your money; that may be a little high for some people, especially if their expenses are on the low side.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-28\">Yang suggests calculating the best number for you based on your needs. \"Consumers should determine their estimated monthly expenses and keep enough in their checking account to cover those expenses,\" Yang says. \"Any additional funds left over, they should consider transferring to something that gets a higher-yield.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-30\">Anastasio says it depends on how much you\'re comfortable having in reserve. In general, though, \"a guideline that makes sense for your checking account is to keep the equivalent of one net paycheck,\" she says. \"This ensures the amount is right for everyone regardless of income level.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-32\">When You\'re Still Not Sure...</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-33\">At the end of the day, you need to determine how much of a cushion you need in your checking account to feel confident that you can cover all your expenses (and maybe even a few splurges). One of these guidelines might help you figure out what that number is; once you\'ve done that, you can rest assured that you\'re not keeping too much in the bank.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-35\">Keep in mind that some financial institutions charge penalties or fees if your checking account balance falls below a certain threshold. Find out what the rules for your accounts are and be sure to fulfill the requirements to avoid paying a fee. And the reverse is true, too: If your balance is too high—$250,000 high—it won\'t be covered by the FDIC; if you are keeping that much money in banks, spread it across accounts or institutions to make sure it\'s all insured.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-37\">Don\'t Forget Investments</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\">All your other money—because you\'re continuing to save, right?—should go into investments, where it might have a chance to grow and accumulate faster. (Letting your money earn money for you both helps your savings grow and takes some of the pressure off you.) Those can be CDs, bonds, stocks, mutual funds, or another of the many investing options out there, but you want your money to do a little work for you. If it\'s invested, it\'s hopefully growing, moving you a little closer to your financial goals.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/money/saving/checking-bank-account-balance-amount\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Are You Keeping Too Much Money in the Bank? Here\'s How to Tell','','inherit','closed','closed','','3042-revision-v1','','','2023-03-29 01:37:15','2023-03-29 01:37:15','',3042,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3044',0,'revision','',0),(3045,1,'2023-03-29 01:41:35','2023-03-29 01:41:35','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">What might seem like a good deal now could turn into a headache later.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3046,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Money-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3046\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">It is a tough used-car market, making it difficult to find the right car at the right price. You may have to make compromises on details such as mileage, color, and condition. Often deals that look a bit too good are that way for a reason. In such cases, it is possible that you’ve found a vehicle with a rebuilt title. Should you haggle accordingly or just walk away altogether?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The first thing to know is the difference between a rebuilt title and a salvage title. If a car has a rebuilt title it means it once had a salvage title because of an accident, flooding, or other significant damage, but it has since been rebuilt by a mechanic and should be road-ready.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Depending on your state, a salvage vehicle might have special requirements before it can be titled. For example, New York requires a salvage vehicle that is recovered after a theft or rebuilt after sustaining damage to be inspected by the Department of Motor Vehicles before the DMV can issue a new title. Check the current laws in your state before any purchase.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">“Generally, most car shoppers should stay away from rebuilt titles,” says Steve Elek, program leader for auto data analytics at Consumer Reports. “That being said, it could come down to a case-by-case basis. For example, you could have a car that has a rebuilt title due to heavy hail damage. That car might be mechanically sound. On the other hand, a rebuilt title could also mean the car was in a serious accident that resulted in significant frame damage.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">There are other reasons for a car having a rebuilt title, including theft and flooding. In the case of flooding, the car could have problems with the electrical system that might not emerge for months as corrosion takes its toll. Newer cars are packed with advanced electronic features and safety-related sensors that you depend on, but they are expensive to repair or replace. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You can usually get liability insurance for a car with a rebuilt title, but you might not be able to get comprehensive coverage, which means the insurance company isn’t necessarily going to pay to replace it after a crash.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You also want to consider resale value. If you plan on only keeping the car for a few years, you should know that selling a car with a rebuilt title usually isn’t easy. Some dealerships will accept a rebuilt title as a trade-in, but expect a low offer because the dealer will most likely send it straight to auction. And while you might be tempted to buy such a car in today’s high-demand, low-supply market, conditions will (hopefully) change in the years ahead. The next buyer may have many better-quality options.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The bottom line is that it’s usually not worth buying a car with a rebuilt title. In terms of safety, value, and avoiding any hassles, stick with a good used car that has been inspected by a trusted mechanic and has a clean title.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/should-you-buy-a-car-with-a-rebuilt-title-a1078027599/\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Should You Buy a Car With a Rebuilt Title?','','publish','closed','closed','','should-you-buy-a-car-with-a-rebuilt-title','','','2023-03-29 01:41:35','2023-03-29 01:41:35','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3045',0,'post','',0),(3046,1,'2023-03-29 01:40:03','2023-03-29 01:40:03','','Money-2','','inherit','closed','closed','','money-2-12','','','2023-03-29 01:40:03','2023-03-29 01:40:03','',3045,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Money-2.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3047,1,'2023-03-29 01:41:35','2023-03-29 01:41:35','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">What might seem like a good deal now could turn into a headache later.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3046,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Money-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3046\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">It is a tough used-car market, making it difficult to find the right car at the right price. You may have to make compromises on details such as mileage, color, and condition. Often deals that look a bit too good are that way for a reason. In such cases, it is possible that you’ve found a vehicle with a rebuilt title. Should you haggle accordingly or just walk away altogether?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The first thing to know is the difference between a rebuilt title and a salvage title. If a car has a rebuilt title it means it once had a salvage title because of an accident, flooding, or other significant damage, but it has since been rebuilt by a mechanic and should be road-ready.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Depending on your state, a salvage vehicle might have special requirements before it can be titled. For example, New York requires a salvage vehicle that is recovered after a theft or rebuilt after sustaining damage to be inspected by the Department of Motor Vehicles before the DMV can issue a new title. Check the current laws in your state before any purchase.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">“Generally, most car shoppers should stay away from rebuilt titles,” says Steve Elek, program leader for auto data analytics at Consumer Reports. “That being said, it could come down to a case-by-case basis. For example, you could have a car that has a rebuilt title due to heavy hail damage. That car might be mechanically sound. On the other hand, a rebuilt title could also mean the car was in a serious accident that resulted in significant frame damage.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">There are other reasons for a car having a rebuilt title, including theft and flooding. In the case of flooding, the car could have problems with the electrical system that might not emerge for months as corrosion takes its toll. Newer cars are packed with advanced electronic features and safety-related sensors that you depend on, but they are expensive to repair or replace. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You can usually get liability insurance for a car with a rebuilt title, but you might not be able to get comprehensive coverage, which means the insurance company isn’t necessarily going to pay to replace it after a crash.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You also want to consider resale value. If you plan on only keeping the car for a few years, you should know that selling a car with a rebuilt title usually isn’t easy. Some dealerships will accept a rebuilt title as a trade-in, but expect a low offer because the dealer will most likely send it straight to auction. And while you might be tempted to buy such a car in today’s high-demand, low-supply market, conditions will (hopefully) change in the years ahead. The next buyer may have many better-quality options.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The bottom line is that it’s usually not worth buying a car with a rebuilt title. In terms of safety, value, and avoiding any hassles, stick with a good used car that has been inspected by a trusted mechanic and has a clean title.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/should-you-buy-a-car-with-a-rebuilt-title-a1078027599/\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Should You Buy a Car With a Rebuilt Title?','','inherit','closed','closed','','3045-revision-v1','','','2023-03-29 01:41:35','2023-03-29 01:41:35','',3045,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3047',0,'revision','',0),(3120,1,'2023-04-27 18:13:31','2023-04-27 18:13:31','','Money-1','','inherit','closed','closed','','money-1-12','','','2023-04-27 18:13:31','2023-04-27 18:13:31','',3119,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Money-1.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3119,1,'2023-04-27 18:18:13','2023-04-27 18:18:13','<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3120,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Money-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3120\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The average American has $96,371 in debt, including student loan, mortgage and credit card balances. Whether your debt is more or less than that amount, it can feel difficult to manage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Even if you’re struggling to make a dent in your outstanding balances and stay afloat financially, there are options to help you find relief. You can use the specific strategies discussed in this guide, like the debt snowball or avalanche, or consolidate what you owe to break the chains of debt bondage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Strategies for paying off debt</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">It may have taken just a few months of unemployment or excess spending to get into debt, but it will likely take longer than that to pay it off. It’s important to commit to a plan and not get discouraged by any setbacks. Remember, slow and steady wins the race toward a zero balance.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Regardless of how you got into debt, you’ll need a plan to pay it off. Consider these strategies to help you get started.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">1. The debt snowball</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The debt snowball method builds momentum as you start repaying creditors, like rolling a snowball across the ground. Begin by paying off debts from smallest to largest. List debts by balance and start with the smallest one. Make sure to pay minimums on all other bills and send extra cash to the debt with the smallest balance until it’s paid in full.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Repeat this strategy with the other debts. As you pay off balances, you’ll free up more funds for other debts. Plus, it’s encouraging to see progress and can keep you on track to see debts vanishing.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><strong>Who this is best for:&nbsp;</strong>The debt snowball is best if you want to experience quick gains when paying off your debts.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">2. The debt avalanche</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The debt avalanche strategy takes a similar approach but instead orders debts by interest rate. First, you make a list of all your debts from the highest interest rate to the lowest. You then concentrate on paying off the highest-interest debt first while making minimum payments on all the other debt. This cuts back on the amount you’re paying in interest, which also frees up more cash to pay down other debt.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><strong>Who this is best for:&nbsp;</strong>The debt avalanche is suitable if saving a bundle in interest is a priority, and you’re motivated to get out of debt quickly.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">3. Debt consolidation</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If it becomes too challenging to keep up with various payments and due dates, consider debt consolidation. A personal loan or a new balance-transfer credit card could be used for this purpose.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">With debt consolidation, the lender pays off all your existing debts and rolls them into one new loan with one payment. While the new interest rate may be higher than some of your other bills, you could wind up saving money by avoiding missed and late payment fees.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">To determine if it’s a smart strategy for your situation, you’ll need to calculate your blended interest rate. It’s the combined interest rate paid on all your debts. It’s calculated by summing the total interest you’ll pay in a year and dividing it by the entire principal owed. Or, you can use our debt consolidation calculator.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Even though the rate on a debt consolidation loan can be quite high, it could still be lower than the blended rate you’re already paying, in which case a debt consolidation loan would be a good choice.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><strong>Who this is best for</strong>: Consider debt consolidation if you can commit to not using your credit cards or acquiring more debt while you work to pay off what you owe.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">4. Debt management plan</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Nonprofit credit counseling agencies can help set up a debt management plan with debtors. An agency will negotiate concessions on your behalf with the companies that you owe money. This could entail arranging for lower payments, setting up reasonable repayment plans and possibly securing debt forgiveness.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><strong>Who this is best for</strong>: Debt consolidation could be a viable option if you struggle to keep up with your minimum monthly payments and prefer a plan that can help you pay less in interest and get out of debt faster.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Tips for paying off debt</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Once you have a debt payoff plan in place, follow these tips to stay on track.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">1. Stick to a budget</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Whatever strategy you choose for paying off debt, you’ll need a budget. Otherwise, it’s too easy to get off track. With a budget, it’s easy to see where each dollar is going, which will help you identify areas where you could cut costs and save money.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Whether you use an app or a spreadsheet to create a budget, once you see all your income and expenses laid out, you can start planning for how to pay off debt. Subtract your fixed expenses from your income – that’s your free cash flow. That money is what you have available to cover variable costs and pay down debt.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">2. Start an emergency savings account</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">There’s nothing like an unexpected car repair coming to ruin all your plans to get out of debt. Life will continue to happen while you’re focused on how to pay off your debt, which is why you need an emergency savings account.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">As much as you may want to put every extra penny toward your credit card balance, if you’ve</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">paid off half your balance but then can’t pay for an emergency, you’d just have to charge it again. Most experts advise having three to six months’ worth of living expenses in savings, so when you’re putting your budget together, it should include a line item for savings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">3. Reduce monthly bills</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you’re wondering how to pay off debt and save, consider ways to reduce monthly bills. Lowering monthly expenses frees up money that can be put toward paying down debt.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Are there any unnecessary expenses that can be cut? Maybe drop Netflix or cable for a few months to save money and free up time for a side hustle. If the heating bills have been out of control, many utility companies offer free energy audits, which would identify changes you could make to curb utility costs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">4. Earn extra cash</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Having a side hustle has almost become an American institution, right up there with apple pie. Many people now maximize free time by making jewelry to sell on Etsy, driving for a ride-sharing service or dog-sitting. The answer to “how do I pay off my debt?” could be brainstorming ways to earn extra cash.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">What are your hobbies? Do you have any special skills you could monetize? Which side gigs would work with your daily schedule? Find a way to secure extra cash flow and apply those earnings to paying off debts.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">5. Explore debt relief options</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Debt relief companies make grand promises to help solve problems like how to pay off debt, but do they deliver? Yes and no. When you sign up to work with a debt relief company, it negotiates with your creditors to settle or attempt to change the terms of your debt. But there is a catch.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Debt relief companies charge fees for services. To increase a creditor’s willingness to negotiate, the company may urge clients to stop making payments on their bills. But this will lead to late fees, interest charges, and other penalties that increase debt and hurt credit scores.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The companies can also help settle or manage some bills, but they could ultimately do more harm than good. Explore all other options before deciding to work with one.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">The bottom line</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">There are many different strategies and options for paying off your debts. Research the different approaches, including the debt snowball method, the debt avalanche and debt consolidation to find a tactic that is likely to work best for you.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Once you get started, it’s important to establish a budget and an emergency savings account to help ensure your debt doesn’t grow out of control once again.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.bankrate.com/personal-finance/debt/how-to-pay-off-debt/\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','How to pay off debt: Strategies and tips','','publish','closed','closed','','how-to-pay-off-debt-strategies-and-tips','','','2023-04-27 18:18:13','2023-04-27 18:18:13','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3119',0,'post','',0),(3050,1,'2023-03-29 01:47:13','2023-03-29 01:47:13','<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3051,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Money-3.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3051\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Spring is here! After dealing with Covid for two years it’s the perfect time to take that vacation you’ve been thinking about all winter. Vacations can be pricey, but here are a few tips for how you can take a great vacation without spending more than you want to:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Look for deals on everything</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Apps such as Groupon and Living Social have tons of deals on all kinds of things, including vacation packages, activities, food and drink, and shopping.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Travel with a big group</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Traveling with a big group of friends and/or family is not only more fun, but it’s also cheaper. The more people there are to split expenses like groceries, lodging and gas, the cheaper it will be.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Travel Cheap</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Instead of flying, take the bus or take a road trip. Save even more money by choosing a route so you can camp along the way instead of paying for hotel rooms.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">If you need to fly- book early, be flexible, and track flight rates.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Once you’re at your destination, skip the taxi and explore the area by foot or rent a bike.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Dine smart</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Buy groceries once you arrive at your destination, so you won’t have to eat out for every meal.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Take advantage of hotels with free breakfasts, and always save your leftovers!</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Pack your own snacks and BYOB.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Find cheap lodging</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Stay with friends or family.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Look for lodging outside of the main touristy areas.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Rent an Airbnb. Airbnb house rentals are a great option if you’re traveling with a group of friends- splitting the cost of a house will be much cheaper than multiple hotel rooms.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">If you don’t need the space and amenities of hotels or rentals, consider staying in a hostel.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Create a budget and stay organized</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Decide how much money you want to spend on travel, food, activities, etc. before you leave. Download a personal finance app such as Mint to help you track your spending and stick to your budget.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Stay organized with packing lists, itineraries and travel organizer apps such as TripIt.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Perhaps the best money-saving tip is plan ahead. Take the time to research and plan every aspect of your trip- it will save you money in the end.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://gogloballoans.com/2022/03/01/money-saving-tips-for-spring-break/\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','MONEY SAVING TIPS FOR SPRING BREAK','','publish','closed','closed','','money-saving-tips-for-spring-break','','','2023-03-29 01:47:13','2023-03-29 01:47:13','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3050',0,'post','',0),(3051,1,'2023-03-29 01:44:04','2023-03-29 01:44:04','','Money-3','','inherit','closed','closed','','money-3-9','','','2023-03-29 01:44:04','2023-03-29 01:44:04','',3050,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Money-3.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3052,1,'2023-03-29 01:47:13','2023-03-29 01:47:13','<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3051,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Money-3.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3051\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Spring is here! After dealing with Covid for two years it’s the perfect time to take that vacation you’ve been thinking about all winter. Vacations can be pricey, but here are a few tips for how you can take a great vacation without spending more than you want to:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Look for deals on everything</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Apps such as Groupon and Living Social have tons of deals on all kinds of things, including vacation packages, activities, food and drink, and shopping.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Travel with a big group</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Traveling with a big group of friends and/or family is not only more fun, but it’s also cheaper. The more people there are to split expenses like groceries, lodging and gas, the cheaper it will be.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Travel Cheap</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Instead of flying, take the bus or take a road trip. Save even more money by choosing a route so you can camp along the way instead of paying for hotel rooms.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">If you need to fly- book early, be flexible, and track flight rates.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Once you’re at your destination, skip the taxi and explore the area by foot or rent a bike.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Dine smart</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Buy groceries once you arrive at your destination, so you won’t have to eat out for every meal.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Take advantage of hotels with free breakfasts, and always save your leftovers!</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Pack your own snacks and BYOB.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Find cheap lodging</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Stay with friends or family.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Look for lodging outside of the main touristy areas.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Rent an Airbnb. Airbnb house rentals are a great option if you’re traveling with a group of friends- splitting the cost of a house will be much cheaper than multiple hotel rooms.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">If you don’t need the space and amenities of hotels or rentals, consider staying in a hostel.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Create a budget and stay organized</strong></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Decide how much money you want to spend on travel, food, activities, etc. before you leave. Download a personal finance app such as Mint to help you track your spending and stick to your budget.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Stay organized with packing lists, itineraries and travel organizer apps such as TripIt.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\">Perhaps the best money-saving tip is plan ahead. Take the time to research and plan every aspect of your trip- it will save you money in the end.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://gogloballoans.com/2022/03/01/money-saving-tips-for-spring-break/\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','MONEY SAVING TIPS FOR SPRING BREAK','','inherit','closed','closed','','3050-revision-v1','','','2023-03-29 01:47:13','2023-03-29 01:47:13','',3050,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3052',0,'revision','',0),(3054,1,'2023-03-29 01:55:04','2023-03-29 01:55:04','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Take control of your Facebook experience—here\'s how.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3055,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Tech-Tips.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3055\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">Facebook gives us so much: Ways to connect with old friends, see what former classmates and colleagues are up to, donate to family-backed causes, and keep in touch with faraway family members. You can find endless recipe videos to watch (but never make), and even find yourself a used moped in mint condition.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\">But with each new feature rollout comes yet another notification, privacy concern, or straight-up inconvenience—and you don\'t have to grin and bear it. From pesky ad notifications to cringe-worthy memories you\'d prefer to keep in the past, here\'s how to tailor your Facebook experience to be exactly how you want it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-4\">\"On This Day\" Memories</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-5\">Some memories belong in the past. You can control whether you see any On This Day or other Memory posts—and you can even go as far as to list a specific person and date you do not want to be reminded of (which is helpful for exes). In the left-hand sidebar of your profile page—in the same column that lists Friends, Groups, Messenger, and Marketplace—click on Memories (you can also go directly to facebook.com/memories). Choose Notifications in the left menu and select either \"None\" to turn off all notifications, or \"Highlights\" to only get notifications about certain memories, like celebration videos.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-7\">You can also get down to the nitty gritty and decide if there are certain people or certain days you would rather not remember via Facebook notification. To block Memories related to certain people or dates, in the left-hand bar under Notifications, select Hide People (and then select individuals via search and drop-down option) or Hide Dates (and then set your preferred date parameters). You make the rules!</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-9\">Auto-Play Videos</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-10\">While scrolling through your newsfeed, there are some videos you just do not want to see, but that play without warning anyway. To stop random videos from auto-playing in your Facebook News Feed, click the drop-down arrow button in the top right-hand corner, choose Settings and Privacy, then Setting again. Select Videos in the left sidebar (you may have to scroll down a bit), then click on the drop-down menu to the right of \"Auto-Play Videos\" and select \"off.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-12\">Off-Facebook Activity</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-13\">Facebook launched the Off-Facebook Activity tool, which lets you manage how the company sees and tracks your activity across the internet (yep, it\'s been doing that). According to the Facebook help center: \"Off-Facebook activity is a summary of activity that businesses and organizations share with us about your interactions, such as visiting their apps or websites. They use our Business Tools, like Facebook Login or Facebook Pixel, to share this information with us.\" The good news is you can clear the history of apps and websites you use that have shared your data, and you can disconnect data tracking going forward.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-15\">Click the drop-down arrow button in the top right-hand corner, choose Settings and Privacy, then Settings again. Click Your Facebook Information in the left column, then Off-Facebook Activity. To clear your history, choose Clear History. To turn off your future Off-Facebook activity for all apps and websites, choose Future Off-Facebook Activity, and click Turn Off.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-17\">Location History</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-18\">On the Facebook app, you have the option to turn on Location History to allow Facebook to know your precise whereabouts through the Location Services on your device. But if you\'re not interested in having FB keep tabs and records of your various locations within the app, you can turn off Location History at any time. In the Facebook app, tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner; tap Settings, Privacy Shortcuts, and Manage your location settings, then switch the toggle icon off.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-20\">Location Sharing (Nearby Friends)</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-21\">Nearby Friends is a feature that lets you and your friends share your locations with each other, and turning on Nearby Friends in your app will automatically turn on Location History, too. If you want Facebook to stop sharing your location with friends, head to the bottom-right menu icon, then tap Nearby Friends (or maybe See More if it\'s not at the top). Hit your own name, hit settings, then switch the toggle icon to \"off.\" You can always change these back should you decide you want to start sharing your location again.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-23\">Ads You Don\'t Want to See</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-24\">If you\'re either feeling targeted by your Facebook ads or simply don\'t want to be shown content you\'re not interested in, you\'re not alone. The next time an ad you\'d prefer not to see pops up in your Feed or webpage guardrail, click the ellipsis on the right and select \"Hide Ad\" to delete that one advertisement, or \"Hide all ads from [brand]\" to free yourself completely (at least on Facebook).</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-26\">Facebook Live Notifications</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-27\">With Facebook Live came more notifications. Whether or not you\'re tagged in a video—and whether or not you plan on tuning in—Facebook lets you know when friends go live. Good news: You can disable Facebook live notifications with a few clicks. Under Settings go to Notifications, scroll down to Video and click to expand the drop-down, and choose \"off.\" You can also control notifications about tags, birthdays, people you may know, the marketplace, and more here.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-29\">Read Message Notifications</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-30\">Leaving someone on \"read\" goes against basic social media etiquette. Ideally, you want to be able to open a message before you\'re ready to respond but without leaving the person on \"read.\" You can easily mark individual messages as \"unread,\" giving yourself a bit more time to formulate the perfect response. When you hover over each conversation in FB Messenger, you\'ll see a circle with three dots to the right. Click that and select Mark as Unread.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-32\">Group Activity Notifications</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-33\">Getting notifications from a Facebook group you joined years ago, but just aren\'t ready to leave yet? Turn those bad boys off. At the top right of the group page, next to the search icon, click on the three-dot icon, hit Manage Notifications, and pick your preferred settings: Receive alerts for \"All posts,\" \"Highlights,\" \"Friends\' posts,\" or \"Off.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-35\">News Feed Display</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-36\">It\'s not them, it\'s you—or, yeah, maybe it actually is them. Either way, you may have some&nbsp;<em>extremely</em>&nbsp;active Facebook friends whose posts are clogging your timeline (and driving you bananas). Don\'t want to go so far as to unfriend them, but need to quiet the noise? We hear you. You have a couple of options.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\">You can Unfollow them (different from Unfriending them or Blocking them)—basically, their posts and activity will stop populating your feed, but you\'ll still be able to see their profiles and send messages. Do this by clicking the three dots in the upper right corner of an individual person or page\'s post, and selecting \"Unfollow [person\'s name].\" You can also head to the main top right drop-down menu, select Privacy and Settings, News Feed Preferences, Unfollow, and search for the person in question.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-40\">Face Recognition</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-41\">The fact that Facebook can scan photos, identify faces, and suggest tags for photos is objectively cool. At first, it was actually pretty helpful—then it just got a little creepy. If you don\'t love the thought of Facebook knowing exactly what you look like—and don\'t need help recognizing your own or your friends\' faces in photos—you can quickly switch off this questionable feature. Go to Settings and Privacy, Settings, then choose Face Recognition in the left-hand menu. Where it asks \"Do you want Facebook to be able to recognize you in photos and videos?\" click Edit and select \"no\" from the drop-down menu.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-43\">Game and App Invitations</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-44\">Do you have a Facebook friend from high school that you haven\'t spoken to in years who keeps inviting you to play Candy Crush on Facebook? Not to worry, you can put a stop to that by blocking their app invites. All you have to do is go to \"Settings,\" select \"Blocking,\" and type the name(s) of your friend(s) who is sending unsolicited invites. This also works for events, apps in general, pages, and messages.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-46\">Once you\'ve toggled through all the Facebook options, make sure you update your Instagram settings as well.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/technology/control-facebook-settings\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','12 Facebook Settings and Notifications You Can Turn Off Immediately','','publish','closed','closed','','12-facebook-settings-and-notifications-you-can-turn-off-immediately','','','2023-03-29 01:55:04','2023-03-29 01:55:04','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3054',0,'post','',0),(3055,1,'2023-03-29 01:49:10','2023-03-29 01:49:10','','Tech-Tips','','inherit','closed','closed','','tech-tips-5','','','2023-03-29 01:49:10','2023-03-29 01:49:10','',3054,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Tech-Tips.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3056,1,'2023-03-29 01:55:04','2023-03-29 01:55:04','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Take control of your Facebook experience—here\'s how.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3055,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Tech-Tips.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3055\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">Facebook gives us so much: Ways to connect with old friends, see what former classmates and colleagues are up to, donate to family-backed causes, and keep in touch with faraway family members. You can find endless recipe videos to watch (but never make), and even find yourself a used moped in mint condition.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\">But with each new feature rollout comes yet another notification, privacy concern, or straight-up inconvenience—and you don\'t have to grin and bear it. From pesky ad notifications to cringe-worthy memories you\'d prefer to keep in the past, here\'s how to tailor your Facebook experience to be exactly how you want it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-4\">\"On This Day\" Memories</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-5\">Some memories belong in the past. You can control whether you see any On This Day or other Memory posts—and you can even go as far as to list a specific person and date you do not want to be reminded of (which is helpful for exes). In the left-hand sidebar of your profile page—in the same column that lists Friends, Groups, Messenger, and Marketplace—click on Memories (you can also go directly to facebook.com/memories). Choose Notifications in the left menu and select either \"None\" to turn off all notifications, or \"Highlights\" to only get notifications about certain memories, like celebration videos.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-7\">You can also get down to the nitty gritty and decide if there are certain people or certain days you would rather not remember via Facebook notification. To block Memories related to certain people or dates, in the left-hand bar under Notifications, select Hide People (and then select individuals via search and drop-down option) or Hide Dates (and then set your preferred date parameters). You make the rules!</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-9\">Auto-Play Videos</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-10\">While scrolling through your newsfeed, there are some videos you just do not want to see, but that play without warning anyway. To stop random videos from auto-playing in your Facebook News Feed, click the drop-down arrow button in the top right-hand corner, choose Settings and Privacy, then Setting again. Select Videos in the left sidebar (you may have to scroll down a bit), then click on the drop-down menu to the right of \"Auto-Play Videos\" and select \"off.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-12\">Off-Facebook Activity</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-13\">Facebook launched the Off-Facebook Activity tool, which lets you manage how the company sees and tracks your activity across the internet (yep, it\'s been doing that). According to the Facebook help center: \"Off-Facebook activity is a summary of activity that businesses and organizations share with us about your interactions, such as visiting their apps or websites. They use our Business Tools, like Facebook Login or Facebook Pixel, to share this information with us.\" The good news is you can clear the history of apps and websites you use that have shared your data, and you can disconnect data tracking going forward.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-15\">Click the drop-down arrow button in the top right-hand corner, choose Settings and Privacy, then Settings again. Click Your Facebook Information in the left column, then Off-Facebook Activity. To clear your history, choose Clear History. To turn off your future Off-Facebook activity for all apps and websites, choose Future Off-Facebook Activity, and click Turn Off.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-17\">Location History</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-18\">On the Facebook app, you have the option to turn on Location History to allow Facebook to know your precise whereabouts through the Location Services on your device. But if you\'re not interested in having FB keep tabs and records of your various locations within the app, you can turn off Location History at any time. In the Facebook app, tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner; tap Settings, Privacy Shortcuts, and Manage your location settings, then switch the toggle icon off.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-20\">Location Sharing (Nearby Friends)</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-21\">Nearby Friends is a feature that lets you and your friends share your locations with each other, and turning on Nearby Friends in your app will automatically turn on Location History, too. If you want Facebook to stop sharing your location with friends, head to the bottom-right menu icon, then tap Nearby Friends (or maybe See More if it\'s not at the top). Hit your own name, hit settings, then switch the toggle icon to \"off.\" You can always change these back should you decide you want to start sharing your location again.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-23\">Ads You Don\'t Want to See</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-24\">If you\'re either feeling targeted by your Facebook ads or simply don\'t want to be shown content you\'re not interested in, you\'re not alone. The next time an ad you\'d prefer not to see pops up in your Feed or webpage guardrail, click the ellipsis on the right and select \"Hide Ad\" to delete that one advertisement, or \"Hide all ads from [brand]\" to free yourself completely (at least on Facebook).</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-26\">Facebook Live Notifications</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-27\">With Facebook Live came more notifications. Whether or not you\'re tagged in a video—and whether or not you plan on tuning in—Facebook lets you know when friends go live. Good news: You can disable Facebook live notifications with a few clicks. Under Settings go to Notifications, scroll down to Video and click to expand the drop-down, and choose \"off.\" You can also control notifications about tags, birthdays, people you may know, the marketplace, and more here.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-29\">Read Message Notifications</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-30\">Leaving someone on \"read\" goes against basic social media etiquette. Ideally, you want to be able to open a message before you\'re ready to respond but without leaving the person on \"read.\" You can easily mark individual messages as \"unread,\" giving yourself a bit more time to formulate the perfect response. When you hover over each conversation in FB Messenger, you\'ll see a circle with three dots to the right. Click that and select Mark as Unread.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-32\">Group Activity Notifications</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-33\">Getting notifications from a Facebook group you joined years ago, but just aren\'t ready to leave yet? Turn those bad boys off. At the top right of the group page, next to the search icon, click on the three-dot icon, hit Manage Notifications, and pick your preferred settings: Receive alerts for \"All posts,\" \"Highlights,\" \"Friends\' posts,\" or \"Off.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-35\">News Feed Display</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-36\">It\'s not them, it\'s you—or, yeah, maybe it actually is them. Either way, you may have some&nbsp;<em>extremely</em>&nbsp;active Facebook friends whose posts are clogging your timeline (and driving you bananas). Don\'t want to go so far as to unfriend them, but need to quiet the noise? We hear you. You have a couple of options.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\">You can Unfollow them (different from Unfriending them or Blocking them)—basically, their posts and activity will stop populating your feed, but you\'ll still be able to see their profiles and send messages. Do this by clicking the three dots in the upper right corner of an individual person or page\'s post, and selecting \"Unfollow [person\'s name].\" You can also head to the main top right drop-down menu, select Privacy and Settings, News Feed Preferences, Unfollow, and search for the person in question.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-40\">Face Recognition</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-41\">The fact that Facebook can scan photos, identify faces, and suggest tags for photos is objectively cool. At first, it was actually pretty helpful—then it just got a little creepy. If you don\'t love the thought of Facebook knowing exactly what you look like—and don\'t need help recognizing your own or your friends\' faces in photos—you can quickly switch off this questionable feature. Go to Settings and Privacy, Settings, then choose Face Recognition in the left-hand menu. Where it asks \"Do you want Facebook to be able to recognize you in photos and videos?\" click Edit and select \"no\" from the drop-down menu.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-43\">Game and App Invitations</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-44\">Do you have a Facebook friend from high school that you haven\'t spoken to in years who keeps inviting you to play Candy Crush on Facebook? Not to worry, you can put a stop to that by blocking their app invites. All you have to do is go to \"Settings,\" select \"Blocking,\" and type the name(s) of your friend(s) who is sending unsolicited invites. This also works for events, apps in general, pages, and messages.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-46\">Once you\'ve toggled through all the Facebook options, make sure you update your Instagram settings as well.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/technology/control-facebook-settings\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','12 Facebook Settings and Notifications You Can Turn Off Immediately','','inherit','closed','closed','','3054-revision-v1','','','2023-03-29 01:55:04','2023-03-29 01:55:04','',3054,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3056',0,'revision','',0),(3057,1,'2023-03-29 02:04:46','2023-03-29 02:04:46','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If early retirement is one of your goals, here are five steps you should take.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3058,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Retirement.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3058\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">It might be the most common cubicle daydream: early retirement before age 65, and the freedom — financial and otherwise — that comes with it. On the other hand, perhaps life forces you to retire earlier than you planned for.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Whatever the case, here is everything you need to know about early retirement and how to plan for it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">What is early retirement age?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Many people who pursue early retirement define that as retiring in their 40s, 50s or even earlier. They want to retire to travel, set aside time for passion projects or simply not work. This is often referred to as the FIRE movement, which stands for financial independence, retire early.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">FIRE has essentially redefined early retirement, making it less about leaving work and more about having the financial independence to decide when, how and for whom you work.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">But ironically, retiring early requires a lot of work — you need to self-fund your retirement, because the earliest that you can start receiving Social Security benefits is at age 62.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">However, your monthly benefit is reduced if you take Social Security benefits before the full retirement age of 66 or 67, depending on what year you were born. That monthly reduction in your benefits could lead to a reduction of up to 30% of your Social Security benefits, depending on how far away from the full retirement age you are.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">How to retire early in 5 steps</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">1. Make some adjustments to your current budget</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Here’s where that work comes in: No matter how you want to slice it, retiring early means making some changes to how Current You earns and spends money, so Future You gets to relax. And for many people, that means cutting their budget to the bare minimum. Many people with early retirement ambitions aim to live on 50% of their income (or less). The rest gets funneled into savings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">FIRE devotees have all kinds of strategies for getting their spending down to this level, ranging from the obvious to the insane. Wiping out debt — including debt traditionally considered “good,” like mortgage loans — is key, as is cutting large and small expenses. You’ll want to get creative about how you can save money on transportation, utilities, food and housing costs. Do you have a bike? Get ready to ride it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">It\'s also wise to find ways to bring in some extra income that can go directly into your early retirement coffers. There are several groups of FIRE devotees, but there are three common ones: The lean FIRE group, which aims to live as lean as possible, and the fat FIRE group. Followers of fat FIRE focus less on frugality and more on increasing their earnings — either through investments or side hustles — so they can live a comfortable lifestyle <em>and</em> retire early. There is also barista FIRE, which focuses on saving enough to retire and work when they want and in circumstances that are convenient for them. If that sounds more appealing to you, don’t get rid of the car just yet. You’re going to need it when you start driving for Lyft.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">2. Calculate your annual retirement spending</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The good news following Step 1: You’re probably used to living on just a small portion of your income.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">That, in turn, translates into needing less money for retirement — the assumption being you’ll continue to do so. Prove that out by putting together a retirement spending estimate. To do that, take a look at your current monthly spending and consider what will go down, what could go up, and what might be added or eliminated altogether.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Add your final monthly expense estimates up, multiply by 12 and you have the magic number: your annual retirement needs. To make it truly magical, we’d recommend increasing it by 10% to 20% so you have some wiggle room. You never know when you’ll want to splurge on a haircut.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Two things that are frequently overlooked during this tally, both of which could put an early end to your early retirement: taxes and health care.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Health care in particular is a real hitch in many plans, especially for those who get their health insurance through work pre-retirement. Leaving that job means leaving your policy behind. Some options for replacing it: If you’re married and your partner is still working, the easy solution is to monkey onto their plan. Otherwise, consider purchasing private insurance or searching for a plan through Healthcare.gov.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You could also look for part-time work with health coverage — some companies extend health insurance to part-time employees — or see if you qualify for an industry association that offers group coverage. COBRA, a costly way of temporarily continuing your workplace policy by covering all of the premiums yourself, should probably be a last resort.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">And now for everyone’s favorite subject, taxes. The goal, as always, is to minimize them. To do that, you’ll want to strategize about how and when you pull income from your investment accounts.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Keep in mind that many tax-advantaged retirement accounts, like 401(k)s and IRAs, have rules for when you can take qualified distributions, in most cases requiring a minimum age of 59½ to avoid taxes and penalties. (The exception: Roth IRAs, which allow you to distribute contributions — but not earnings — at any time.)</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">3. Estimate your total savings needs</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The work you did to nail down spending already has you halfway through this one, thanks to a couple of rules of thumb widely used by early retirees.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The first is the rule of 25: You should have 25 times your planned annual spending saved before you retire. That means that if you plan to spend $30,000 during your first year in retirement, you should have $750,000 invested when you walk away from your desk. $50,000? You need $1,250,000. Incidentally, this is good motivation to get that budget in check.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The rule assumes that your retirement nest egg is invested so it continues to grow — after all, thanks to inflation, your spending will increase at least slightly each year, and your investments need to keep up with that. Which brings us to the second rule: the 4% rule, which indicates you can withdraw 4% of your invested savings during your first year of retirement. Each year after, you draw that amount adjusted for inflation.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The 4% rule stems from research in the 1990s that tested a variety of withdrawal strategies against historical market conditions. You may want to take a more or less conservative approach, depending on your investments, risk tolerance and how the market is performing when you retire.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">But there remains this disclaimer: Neither of these rules is foolproof. You’d be hard-pressed to find a financial advisor willing to guarantee your results. But they’re generally considered reasonable strategies.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you plan to rely on savings from your tax-deferred retirement accounts, remember withdrawing savings before age 59½ could be considered early retirement and you may incur income taxes and end up paying penalties. However, you can withdraw money from a brokerage account without paying penalties at any time.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">4. Invest for growth</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">At the risk of stating the obvious, retiring early means (1) you have a shorter period during which you can save, and (2) you have a longer period during which the money you’ve saved needs to support your spending.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Both of those mean investment returns are going to be your best friend. And to achieve the best returns, you need to invest in a balanced portfolio geared toward long-term growth. Consider using low-cost index funds, with an allocation that is tilted toward stocks for as long as you can stomach it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You may think the opposite is true: Because you have a shorter time horizon before retirement, you should take less risk. But it’s important to remember that the time you spend in retirement should be included in that horizon — you might be retired for 50 or 60 years; you need your money to continue to grow during that time.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">As you approach your planned retirement date, you will likely want to shift a small amount of your savings into safer, more liquid havens, so you can tap it without worrying about selling investments at a loss. Perhaps you do that with a year or two’s worth of expenses. But the rest should remain invested, slowly shifting to cash as you need it, so your money grows and supports that 4% distribution rate discussed earlier.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">5. Keep your expenses in check</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You’ve done a fair amount of work estimating how much you’ll spend in retirement. The harder job will be actually sticking to that estimate.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">It starts small: You throw yourself a retirement party. Then you find yourself with some extra time on your hands — you’re retired, don’t forget — so you plan a vacation, mindlessly browse stores, take up gourmet cooking or adopt a dog. Suddenly that 4% has a one in front of it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Avoid that. Not to state the obvious, but the 4% rule only works if you stick to the rule. It\'s designed to allow your spending to increase with inflation, but not to withstand large spending increases beyond that. Each spending increase — particularly recurring expenses, like a new debt payment — increases your likelihood of running out of money.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">It goes without saying, but we’ll say it anyway: For most people, running out of money means running back to work.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/early-retirement\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Guide to Early Retirement: How to Retire Early','','publish','closed','closed','','guide-to-early-retirement-how-to-retire-early','','','2023-03-29 02:04:46','2023-03-29 02:04:46','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3057',0,'post','',0),(3058,1,'2023-03-29 01:56:20','2023-03-29 01:56:20','','Retirement','','inherit','closed','closed','','retirement-4','','','2023-03-29 01:56:20','2023-03-29 01:56:20','',3057,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Retirement.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3059,1,'2023-03-29 02:04:46','2023-03-29 02:04:46','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If early retirement is one of your goals, here are five steps you should take.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3058,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Retirement.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3058\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">It might be the most common cubicle daydream: early retirement before age 65, and the freedom — financial and otherwise — that comes with it. On the other hand, perhaps life forces you to retire earlier than you planned for.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Whatever the case, here is everything you need to know about early retirement and how to plan for it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">What is early retirement age?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Many people who pursue early retirement define that as retiring in their 40s, 50s or even earlier. They want to retire to travel, set aside time for passion projects or simply not work. This is often referred to as the FIRE movement, which stands for financial independence, retire early.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">FIRE has essentially redefined early retirement, making it less about leaving work and more about having the financial independence to decide when, how and for whom you work.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">But ironically, retiring early requires a lot of work — you need to self-fund your retirement, because the earliest that you can start receiving Social Security benefits is at age 62.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">However, your monthly benefit is reduced if you take Social Security benefits before the full retirement age of 66 or 67, depending on what year you were born. That monthly reduction in your benefits could lead to a reduction of up to 30% of your Social Security benefits, depending on how far away from the full retirement age you are.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">How to retire early in 5 steps</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">1. Make some adjustments to your current budget</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Here’s where that work comes in: No matter how you want to slice it, retiring early means making some changes to how Current You earns and spends money, so Future You gets to relax. And for many people, that means cutting their budget to the bare minimum. Many people with early retirement ambitions aim to live on 50% of their income (or less). The rest gets funneled into savings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">FIRE devotees have all kinds of strategies for getting their spending down to this level, ranging from the obvious to the insane. Wiping out debt — including debt traditionally considered “good,” like mortgage loans — is key, as is cutting large and small expenses. You’ll want to get creative about how you can save money on transportation, utilities, food and housing costs. Do you have a bike? Get ready to ride it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">It\'s also wise to find ways to bring in some extra income that can go directly into your early retirement coffers. There are several groups of FIRE devotees, but there are three common ones: The lean FIRE group, which aims to live as lean as possible, and the fat FIRE group. Followers of fat FIRE focus less on frugality and more on increasing their earnings — either through investments or side hustles — so they can live a comfortable lifestyle <em>and</em> retire early. There is also barista FIRE, which focuses on saving enough to retire and work when they want and in circumstances that are convenient for them. If that sounds more appealing to you, don’t get rid of the car just yet. You’re going to need it when you start driving for Lyft.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">2. Calculate your annual retirement spending</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The good news following Step 1: You’re probably used to living on just a small portion of your income.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">That, in turn, translates into needing less money for retirement — the assumption being you’ll continue to do so. Prove that out by putting together a retirement spending estimate. To do that, take a look at your current monthly spending and consider what will go down, what could go up, and what might be added or eliminated altogether.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Add your final monthly expense estimates up, multiply by 12 and you have the magic number: your annual retirement needs. To make it truly magical, we’d recommend increasing it by 10% to 20% so you have some wiggle room. You never know when you’ll want to splurge on a haircut.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Two things that are frequently overlooked during this tally, both of which could put an early end to your early retirement: taxes and health care.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Health care in particular is a real hitch in many plans, especially for those who get their health insurance through work pre-retirement. Leaving that job means leaving your policy behind. Some options for replacing it: If you’re married and your partner is still working, the easy solution is to monkey onto their plan. Otherwise, consider purchasing private insurance or searching for a plan through Healthcare.gov.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You could also look for part-time work with health coverage — some companies extend health insurance to part-time employees — or see if you qualify for an industry association that offers group coverage. COBRA, a costly way of temporarily continuing your workplace policy by covering all of the premiums yourself, should probably be a last resort.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">And now for everyone’s favorite subject, taxes. The goal, as always, is to minimize them. To do that, you’ll want to strategize about how and when you pull income from your investment accounts.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Keep in mind that many tax-advantaged retirement accounts, like 401(k)s and IRAs, have rules for when you can take qualified distributions, in most cases requiring a minimum age of 59½ to avoid taxes and penalties. (The exception: Roth IRAs, which allow you to distribute contributions — but not earnings — at any time.)</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">3. Estimate your total savings needs</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The work you did to nail down spending already has you halfway through this one, thanks to a couple of rules of thumb widely used by early retirees.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The first is the rule of 25: You should have 25 times your planned annual spending saved before you retire. That means that if you plan to spend $30,000 during your first year in retirement, you should have $750,000 invested when you walk away from your desk. $50,000? You need $1,250,000. Incidentally, this is good motivation to get that budget in check.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The rule assumes that your retirement nest egg is invested so it continues to grow — after all, thanks to inflation, your spending will increase at least slightly each year, and your investments need to keep up with that. Which brings us to the second rule: the 4% rule, which indicates you can withdraw 4% of your invested savings during your first year of retirement. Each year after, you draw that amount adjusted for inflation.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The 4% rule stems from research in the 1990s that tested a variety of withdrawal strategies against historical market conditions. You may want to take a more or less conservative approach, depending on your investments, risk tolerance and how the market is performing when you retire.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">But there remains this disclaimer: Neither of these rules is foolproof. You’d be hard-pressed to find a financial advisor willing to guarantee your results. But they’re generally considered reasonable strategies.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you plan to rely on savings from your tax-deferred retirement accounts, remember withdrawing savings before age 59½ could be considered early retirement and you may incur income taxes and end up paying penalties. However, you can withdraw money from a brokerage account without paying penalties at any time.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">4. Invest for growth</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">At the risk of stating the obvious, retiring early means (1) you have a shorter period during which you can save, and (2) you have a longer period during which the money you’ve saved needs to support your spending.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Both of those mean investment returns are going to be your best friend. And to achieve the best returns, you need to invest in a balanced portfolio geared toward long-term growth. Consider using low-cost index funds, with an allocation that is tilted toward stocks for as long as you can stomach it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You may think the opposite is true: Because you have a shorter time horizon before retirement, you should take less risk. But it’s important to remember that the time you spend in retirement should be included in that horizon — you might be retired for 50 or 60 years; you need your money to continue to grow during that time.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">As you approach your planned retirement date, you will likely want to shift a small amount of your savings into safer, more liquid havens, so you can tap it without worrying about selling investments at a loss. Perhaps you do that with a year or two’s worth of expenses. But the rest should remain invested, slowly shifting to cash as you need it, so your money grows and supports that 4% distribution rate discussed earlier.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">5. Keep your expenses in check</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You’ve done a fair amount of work estimating how much you’ll spend in retirement. The harder job will be actually sticking to that estimate.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">It starts small: You throw yourself a retirement party. Then you find yourself with some extra time on your hands — you’re retired, don’t forget — so you plan a vacation, mindlessly browse stores, take up gourmet cooking or adopt a dog. Suddenly that 4% has a one in front of it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Avoid that. Not to state the obvious, but the 4% rule only works if you stick to the rule. It\'s designed to allow your spending to increase with inflation, but not to withstand large spending increases beyond that. Each spending increase — particularly recurring expenses, like a new debt payment — increases your likelihood of running out of money.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">It goes without saying, but we’ll say it anyway: For most people, running out of money means running back to work.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/early-retirement\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Guide to Early Retirement: How to Retire Early','','inherit','closed','closed','','3057-revision-v1','','','2023-03-29 02:04:46','2023-03-29 02:04:46','',3057,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3059',0,'revision','',0),(3060,1,'2023-03-29 02:14:27','2023-03-29 02:14:27','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Start small, with LED bulbs, or go for a bigger project, like replacing your windows.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3061,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Home-Improvement.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3061\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">For those who bought a home in the past few years or are looking to purchase a house in 2022, we know that costs are rising—but so is the overall value of owning a home. While homeownership can come with many major costs, smart investments can pay off over time. Many homeowners today are particularly looking to cut their costs and increase their home value with eco-friendly features.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-1\">Investing in energy-efficient home upgrades can be pricey (my husband and I just spent $25,000 on new windows and a new deck), but it can save in the long run by cutting down on your utility bills and ultimately making it easier to sell your home in the future. If like me, you are a new-ish homeowner (or a current homebuyer), you may be wondering what eco-friendly upgrades are worth the price tag and which ones won\'t do much.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\">We asked top experts in real estate and home repair what their recommendations are to make a home greener. Keep reading for the ultimate eco-friendly features that homebuyers want in today\'s market and what homeowners should invest in if they\'re looking to get the most bang for their buck when it comes to eco-friendly home upgrades.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-3\">Eco-Friendly Features in a Competitive Housing Market</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-4\">According to a TD Bank survey, today\'s competitive housing market and growing inflation have made many first-time homebuyers doubt whether it\'s the right time to buy a home. But despite their findings that 65 percent of those surveyed think that home prices are too high, experts are not seeing a slowdown anytime soon. And in a competitive market with rising costs, homebuyers are beginning to look more at a home\'s eco-friendly features as a way to save money down the road.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-5\">\"With the competitive market atmosphere, buyers view houses not so much on what features a property has but on the potential of the home,\" says Jamie Mayborn, a broker associate at Coldwell Banker Mason Morse. \"The interest surrounding energy-efficient homes is popular and the demand will continue to rise with living cost increases and climate changes.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-6\">Jennifer Baptista, a licensed realtor and Fresh Starts Registry expert, says that her clients are still very much concerned with location, price, and size—but she is also increasingly seeing that clients are \"interested in houses that are able to upgrade to solar panels\" and want to \"invest in eco-friendly homes.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-7\">What Homebuyers Are Looking For in Eco-Friendly Homes</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-8\">Those who are shopping for homes today with a focus on eco-friendly features tend to focus on sustainable materials and saving costs through more efficient use, according to real estate broker Egypt Sherrod and builder Mike Jackson, hosts of HGTV\'s <em>Married to Real Estate</em>. \"Many of these sustainable materials look just as good, if not better, than their non-sustainable counterparts and offer lifetime warranties,\" Sherrod said. \"Plus, they require little to no maintenance, which provides long-term savings for the homeowner and actually increases the value of the home.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-9\">Meanwhile, Jason F. McLennan, the co-founder of Living Deep and CEO of McLennan Design, says that he sees consumers who \"want to feel like they are making a responsible choice for their families and the future.\" The most significant change that he emphasizes homeowners need to make is to transition away from fossil fuel use by doing things such as using \"induction cooktops in the kitchen and swapping that gas-powered car for an electric one.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-10\">For buyers looking for eco-friendly upgrades or owners looking to add value, he reminds people that going green is well worth it. \"Done right, none of these things have to cost much more if considered early in the design [of your home],\" he says. \"However, as retrofits, they might carry a small premium that pays itself back over time. The way I see it, green buildings add value. This isn\'t a cost—it is a positive return on investment.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-11\">Eco-Friendly Upgrades That Will Pay Off Over Time</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">01 of 03</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\">Home Features That Save You on Utility Bills</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-1\">Almost every expert we spoke with emphasized that homebuyers and homeowners all want to save money on utility bills, which can be done through many eco-friendly features. Baptista\'s top recommendation is for people to invest in new windows. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, \"Heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25 to 30 percent of residential heating and cooling energy use,\" so upgrading your windows can make a big difference in making your home more energy-efficient and cost-effective. \"Windows are not only the eyes of the home but the grain of your wallet,\" Baptista says. \"Up-to-date windows are a huge component that will definitely raise the value of the house while saving you money and adding aesthetics.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Mayborn agrees that quality windows are an excellent investment. Other cost-saving features, such as more energy-efficient water heaters or instant hot water systems, will also make a home more desirable. Should you want to sell your house in the future, these changes \"could garnish a higher offer on the property,\" Mayborn says.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Baptista also says that more straightforward upgrades like getting low-flow toilets and showerheads (which can cut back your water use) can help homeowners \"save a few bucks and add value later.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">\"I also recommend spraying insulation instead of traditional insulation,\" she says, \"which is eco-friendly and saves money while adding to the home value.\" Spray foam insulation has a higher R-value (resistance to heat flow) than the more traditional fiberglass insulation, giving you more control over the heating and cooling of your home—and your bills.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">02 of 03</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-2\">Upgrades to Your Outdoor Space</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-3\">Over the past couple of years, having a nice outdoor space became more important to those looking for a new home—and that trend hasn\'t slowed down, says Sherrod and Jackson. \"One of the most common ways to refresh your outdoor space and increase resale value immediately is with a deck, which not only addresses the demand for indoor-outdoor living but increases the total livable square footage and home value,\" Jackson says. \"Installing or upgrading your deck with a sustainable, composite product like decking boards from TimberTech can make your outdoor space more beautiful and permanent.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">According to TimberTech, the average lifespan of a wood deck is 10 to 15 years. \"Upgrading decking or porches to a composite product is one of the best and most common eco-friendly upgrades to make for long-term cost savings and an easy way to increase home value,\" Sherrod says. While the initial cost of composite decking is higher than wood decking, the yearly maintenance costs are significantly lower, since composite materials don\'t rot or splinter and are more resistant to weather, stains, and insect damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">McLennan also recommends that people consider local sources when upgrading their homes outdoors. \"Locally sourced eco-friendly building materials like FSC-certified wood or salvaged materials could offer consumers fairly affordable, much more sustainable alternatives to those that are shipped globally,\" he says. \"Buying local helps support your community and local economy and also tends to reduce the carbon footprint of the product as well.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">03 of 03</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-4\">Smaller, More Budget-Friendly Upgrades</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-5\">For those not willing or not able to afford to pay tens of thousands of dollars for big eco-friendly home upgrades, there are plenty of cost-effective and budget ideas that homeowners can tackle. Think of what energy-efficient features you can add on your own that would reduce monthly energy bills, says Scott Thomas, director of systems at Dryer Vent Wizard, a Neighborly company. \"Besides air conditioning and water heaters, dryers consume the most energy of all home appliances. When looking into new appliances, homeowners should consider cost-efficient, reliable, eco-friendly dryers.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Another budget idea is to install smart power outlets, says Ben Kolo, owner of Mr. Electric of central Iowa, a Neighborly company. \"Smart power outlets help eliminate phantom loads,\" Kolo says. \"The loads are referred to as vampire energy, and by reducing their energy use when not in use, homeowners save on their energy bills.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Sherrod and Jackson recommend an even simpler idea: \"You can easily make your home more eco-friendly on a budget by swapping out all bulbs to LED bulbs to reduce energy usage,\" Sherrod says. The duo also says that getting a recycling or compost bin, buying a water filter, and using a programmable thermostat can help reduce the cost of your bills while increasing your home\'s value.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Although there is no ideal way to add to the market value of your house, any of these lower-cost ways to be eco-friendly while adding to the house value can be easily achievable, says Baptista. Even doing something like investing in low-VOC house paint can help.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">At the end of the day, think about the big picture of how long you plan to live in the home and what upgrades are most needed—as well as what you can afford right now. Bigger upgrades can add a lot of value, but if you have to take out a loan to install solar panels, consider whether the interest payments will be worthwhile. It\'s okay to start with something small, like your lightbulbs, to slowly move into owning a more energy-efficient and eco-friendly home.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/money/home-finance/eco-friendly-home-upgrades\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Eco-Friendly Upgrades That Will Increase Your Home\'s Value','','publish','closed','closed','','eco-friendly-upgrades-that-will-increase-your-homes-value','','','2023-03-29 02:14:27','2023-03-29 02:14:27','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3060',0,'post','',0),(3061,1,'2023-03-29 02:07:11','2023-03-29 02:07:11','','Home-Improvement','','inherit','closed','closed','','home-improvement-7','','','2023-03-29 02:07:11','2023-03-29 02:07:11','',3060,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Home-Improvement.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3062,1,'2023-03-29 02:14:27','2023-03-29 02:14:27','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Start small, with LED bulbs, or go for a bigger project, like replacing your windows.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3061,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Home-Improvement.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3061\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">For those who bought a home in the past few years or are looking to purchase a house in 2022, we know that costs are rising—but so is the overall value of owning a home. While homeownership can come with many major costs, smart investments can pay off over time. Many homeowners today are particularly looking to cut their costs and increase their home value with eco-friendly features.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-1\">Investing in energy-efficient home upgrades can be pricey (my husband and I just spent $25,000 on new windows and a new deck), but it can save in the long run by cutting down on your utility bills and ultimately making it easier to sell your home in the future. If like me, you are a new-ish homeowner (or a current homebuyer), you may be wondering what eco-friendly upgrades are worth the price tag and which ones won\'t do much.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\">We asked top experts in real estate and home repair what their recommendations are to make a home greener. Keep reading for the ultimate eco-friendly features that homebuyers want in today\'s market and what homeowners should invest in if they\'re looking to get the most bang for their buck when it comes to eco-friendly home upgrades.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-3\">Eco-Friendly Features in a Competitive Housing Market</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-4\">According to a TD Bank survey, today\'s competitive housing market and growing inflation have made many first-time homebuyers doubt whether it\'s the right time to buy a home. But despite their findings that 65 percent of those surveyed think that home prices are too high, experts are not seeing a slowdown anytime soon. And in a competitive market with rising costs, homebuyers are beginning to look more at a home\'s eco-friendly features as a way to save money down the road.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-5\">\"With the competitive market atmosphere, buyers view houses not so much on what features a property has but on the potential of the home,\" says Jamie Mayborn, a broker associate at Coldwell Banker Mason Morse. \"The interest surrounding energy-efficient homes is popular and the demand will continue to rise with living cost increases and climate changes.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-6\">Jennifer Baptista, a licensed realtor and Fresh Starts Registry expert, says that her clients are still very much concerned with location, price, and size—but she is also increasingly seeing that clients are \"interested in houses that are able to upgrade to solar panels\" and want to \"invest in eco-friendly homes.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-7\">What Homebuyers Are Looking For in Eco-Friendly Homes</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-8\">Those who are shopping for homes today with a focus on eco-friendly features tend to focus on sustainable materials and saving costs through more efficient use, according to real estate broker Egypt Sherrod and builder Mike Jackson, hosts of HGTV\'s <em>Married to Real Estate</em>. \"Many of these sustainable materials look just as good, if not better, than their non-sustainable counterparts and offer lifetime warranties,\" Sherrod said. \"Plus, they require little to no maintenance, which provides long-term savings for the homeowner and actually increases the value of the home.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-9\">Meanwhile, Jason F. McLennan, the co-founder of Living Deep and CEO of McLennan Design, says that he sees consumers who \"want to feel like they are making a responsible choice for their families and the future.\" The most significant change that he emphasizes homeowners need to make is to transition away from fossil fuel use by doing things such as using \"induction cooktops in the kitchen and swapping that gas-powered car for an electric one.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-10\">For buyers looking for eco-friendly upgrades or owners looking to add value, he reminds people that going green is well worth it. \"Done right, none of these things have to cost much more if considered early in the design [of your home],\" he says. \"However, as retrofits, they might carry a small premium that pays itself back over time. The way I see it, green buildings add value. This isn\'t a cost—it is a positive return on investment.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-11\">Eco-Friendly Upgrades That Will Pay Off Over Time</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">01 of 03</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\">Home Features That Save You on Utility Bills</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-1\">Almost every expert we spoke with emphasized that homebuyers and homeowners all want to save money on utility bills, which can be done through many eco-friendly features. Baptista\'s top recommendation is for people to invest in new windows. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, \"Heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25 to 30 percent of residential heating and cooling energy use,\" so upgrading your windows can make a big difference in making your home more energy-efficient and cost-effective. \"Windows are not only the eyes of the home but the grain of your wallet,\" Baptista says. \"Up-to-date windows are a huge component that will definitely raise the value of the house while saving you money and adding aesthetics.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Mayborn agrees that quality windows are an excellent investment. Other cost-saving features, such as more energy-efficient water heaters or instant hot water systems, will also make a home more desirable. Should you want to sell your house in the future, these changes \"could garnish a higher offer on the property,\" Mayborn says.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Baptista also says that more straightforward upgrades like getting low-flow toilets and showerheads (which can cut back your water use) can help homeowners \"save a few bucks and add value later.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">\"I also recommend spraying insulation instead of traditional insulation,\" she says, \"which is eco-friendly and saves money while adding to the home value.\" Spray foam insulation has a higher R-value (resistance to heat flow) than the more traditional fiberglass insulation, giving you more control over the heating and cooling of your home—and your bills.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">02 of 03</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-2\">Upgrades to Your Outdoor Space</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-3\">Over the past couple of years, having a nice outdoor space became more important to those looking for a new home—and that trend hasn\'t slowed down, says Sherrod and Jackson. \"One of the most common ways to refresh your outdoor space and increase resale value immediately is with a deck, which not only addresses the demand for indoor-outdoor living but increases the total livable square footage and home value,\" Jackson says. \"Installing or upgrading your deck with a sustainable, composite product like decking boards from TimberTech can make your outdoor space more beautiful and permanent.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">According to TimberTech, the average lifespan of a wood deck is 10 to 15 years. \"Upgrading decking or porches to a composite product is one of the best and most common eco-friendly upgrades to make for long-term cost savings and an easy way to increase home value,\" Sherrod says. While the initial cost of composite decking is higher than wood decking, the yearly maintenance costs are significantly lower, since composite materials don\'t rot or splinter and are more resistant to weather, stains, and insect damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">McLennan also recommends that people consider local sources when upgrading their homes outdoors. \"Locally sourced eco-friendly building materials like FSC-certified wood or salvaged materials could offer consumers fairly affordable, much more sustainable alternatives to those that are shipped globally,\" he says. \"Buying local helps support your community and local economy and also tends to reduce the carbon footprint of the product as well.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">03 of 03</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-4\">Smaller, More Budget-Friendly Upgrades</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-5\">For those not willing or not able to afford to pay tens of thousands of dollars for big eco-friendly home upgrades, there are plenty of cost-effective and budget ideas that homeowners can tackle. Think of what energy-efficient features you can add on your own that would reduce monthly energy bills, says Scott Thomas, director of systems at Dryer Vent Wizard, a Neighborly company. \"Besides air conditioning and water heaters, dryers consume the most energy of all home appliances. When looking into new appliances, homeowners should consider cost-efficient, reliable, eco-friendly dryers.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Another budget idea is to install smart power outlets, says Ben Kolo, owner of Mr. Electric of central Iowa, a Neighborly company. \"Smart power outlets help eliminate phantom loads,\" Kolo says. \"The loads are referred to as vampire energy, and by reducing their energy use when not in use, homeowners save on their energy bills.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Sherrod and Jackson recommend an even simpler idea: \"You can easily make your home more eco-friendly on a budget by swapping out all bulbs to LED bulbs to reduce energy usage,\" Sherrod says. The duo also says that getting a recycling or compost bin, buying a water filter, and using a programmable thermostat can help reduce the cost of your bills while increasing your home\'s value.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Although there is no ideal way to add to the market value of your house, any of these lower-cost ways to be eco-friendly while adding to the house value can be easily achievable, says Baptista. Even doing something like investing in low-VOC house paint can help.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">At the end of the day, think about the big picture of how long you plan to live in the home and what upgrades are most needed—as well as what you can afford right now. Bigger upgrades can add a lot of value, but if you have to take out a loan to install solar panels, consider whether the interest payments will be worthwhile. It\'s okay to start with something small, like your lightbulbs, to slowly move into owning a more energy-efficient and eco-friendly home.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/money/home-finance/eco-friendly-home-upgrades\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Eco-Friendly Upgrades That Will Increase Your Home\'s Value','','inherit','closed','closed','','3060-revision-v1','','','2023-03-29 02:14:27','2023-03-29 02:14:27','',3060,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3062',0,'revision','',0),(3063,1,'2023-03-29 02:21:42','2023-03-29 02:21:42','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Don\'t leave anything on the table.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3064,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Small-business.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3064\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">If you have employee benefits, you\'ve probably heard the common advice to max out your retirement accounts, secure the best health insurance, and take all of your paid leave. While that all sounds relatively straightforward, there are often multiple benefits options to choose from—and if you don\'t know how to take advantage of all that\'s available to you, you could be wasting a significant amount of your compensation package.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\">To go beyond the basics of getting your 401(k) or enrolling in healthcare, you’ll need to do a bit of sleuthing and have a touch of gumption. Financial planning experts—Tennessee-based certified financial planner Brenton Harrison and accredited financial planner Tiffany Grant, MBA—agree that the long-term wins are worth the extra studying or the awkward conversation with your boss, human resources officer, or employee benefits manager. Employee perks can truly be life-changing when you know how to use them.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-8\">Understand your tax-free healthcare accounts</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-9\">\"Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Flex Spending Accounts (FSA), and Dependent Care Flex Spending Accounts are benefits that most employees leave on the table,\" Harrison says. “Each of these accounts allow employees to save and pay for things like health expenses, grooming supplies, and even preschool tuition, all while lowering taxes and increasing take-home pay.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-11\">Estimates state that more than 70 million employees are enrolled in an HSA or FSA—but that doesn\'t mean they know how they work. According to a 2019 Bank of America report, only 57 percent of employees say they have a good understanding of HSAs. Without a thorough understanding of how these accounts work and what they have to offer, you could miss out on crucial savings and investing opportunities.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-15\">These accounts can help you save in a number of unexpected ways, with reimbursements for everything from prenatal vitamins to the Uber ride to the doctor. Harrison says most employers will tell their staff how to sign up, but not how to maximize savings or withdraw funds.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-17\">Here\'s another benefit of these accounts that shouldn\'t be overlooked: “Contributing to a pretax account means the amount of your contribution reduces the income on which you pay taxes,\" Harrison explains. \"An employee making $50,000 who contributes $2,000 to a Flex Spending Account would see their taxable income reduced to $48,000. If their marginal tax rate is 22 percent, this contribution could save them over $400 in taxes, all while establishing a fund for purchases they already make.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-19\">Look beyond standard healthcare benefits</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-20\">Healthcare can cover more than just your trips to the doctor. Depending on your insurance company, you may have access to wellness incentives like discounts on gym memberships, stress-mitigation tools, and even therapy. Recently, more and more employers are even leapfrogging insurance companies and offering these services directly to employees.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-22\">Carrie Huggins, a blogger and stay-at-home mom of seven, recently took on a part-time job just for the benefits—and the wellness perks have been especially important to her. After getting divorced, she researched companies that offer excellent benefits to part-time employees and she’s been intent on taking advantage of everything on offer.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-24\">“I work part-time at a large national home improvement store,\" Huggins says. \"In addition to getting affordable medical coverage and a company match on my 401(k) contribution, I’ve discovered some lesser known benefits by digging into my benefits package.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-26\">Through her package, Huggins was able to sign up for a free year with BetterHelp, a mental health app that allows her to chat with a therapist and do virtual visits—and she saved $250 doing so. Huggins adds that she was relieved to not have to jump through hoops to access the benefit, which applies to both her and her dependent children.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-28\">To name a few other unexpected wellness perks, look out for ergonomic chairs and desks for employees who work from home, as well as free massages, online workouts, and offline gym memberships.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-30\">Start family planning with fertility perks and parental leave</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-31\">According to an early 2022 article in the Harvard Business Review, a recent survey showed that “12 percent of more than 1,000 respondents said they receive fertility and family-forming benefits from their employer.” This means some employers are offering fertility support benefits, including reimbursement or discounts for IVF and egg-freezing as an employee perk. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-33\">Research from Carrot’s global team of fertility experts showed that while 31 percent of people wouldn’t feel comfortable asking their employer for fertility benefits, 77 percent said they would stay at their company longer if fertility benefits were on offer. And 88 percent said they’d consider switching jobs to access fertility benefits. Many big companies like Starbucks, Google, and Apple already offer fertility benefits to employees, but a growing number of startups and regional companies do too.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-35\">Family planning is a huge part of work-life balance, so it’s no wonder that people are also on the lookout for parental leave benefits to support adoption, pregnancy, and postpartum recovery. If you\'re asking your current or potential employer about family planning perks, remember not to just ask about maternity leave, but parental leave—which also applies to non-birthing parents.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-37\">Check out Continuing Education and Upskill Payouts</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\">Student loan forgiveness might seem like it\'s only for public servants, but many companies and institutions offer ways to help employees pay off loans or provide employees with upskill opportunities that won\'t deplete their savings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-40\">Amazon, Disney, and many others offer tuition reimbursement, while others offer discounted or low rates for online training programs or workplace certifications, especially in technological fields. Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning are some popular options, but you can also ask your employer about proprietary training or publicly available subscription platforms that your employer may fund or reimburse.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-42\">Taking advantage of these programs is important for your own growth, and these skills can translate to more money down the line. These renewed qualifications can help you get the next raise or promotion. They may even help you make the leap to a new company or venture.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-44\">Check out your Employee Assistance Program (EAP)</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-45\">These programs go by many names, but many employers offer some kind of employee support program that entails a variety of services, devices, and tools to help employees in all aspects of life.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-47\">In the federal government, many employees can tap into the benefit platform WorkLife4You, but in academia or corporations these services may be branded according to the company. In fact, union employees might get the same directly from the union itself.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-49\">Grant says that EAP benefits are typically available for free, but they are often available through a third-party provider. That’s why it can be a bit hard to know what to ask for and where to find them. Some services are triggered by life events, while others are available on a rolling basis and whenever you need them.  Nevertheless, the support is really beneficial and usually free of charge. EAP programs often include:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-51\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Confidential mental health support by trained clinicians</li><li>Financial advice to help with taxes, investment planning, or retirement savings</li><li>Legal guidance from licensed attorneys&nbsp;</li><li>Estate and will preparation guidance</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-53\">So, how do you access these programs? “Most employers have a benefits-at-a-glance document that you can ask for before you even accept the position,\" Grant says. \"If they do not, ask for an overview of the benefits so you can make an informed decision on whether to accept the position.” If you’re already working at the company, review the employee handbook, benefits portal, or ask the HR department for more information.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.realsimple.com/how-to-maximize-employee-benefits-6827528\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','How to Make the Most of Your Employee Benefits','','publish','closed','closed','','how-to-make-the-most-of-your-employee-benefits','','','2023-03-29 02:21:42','2023-03-29 02:21:42','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3063',0,'post','',0),(3064,1,'2023-03-29 02:16:08','2023-03-29 02:16:08','','Small-business','','inherit','closed','closed','','small-business-9','','','2023-03-29 02:16:08','2023-03-29 02:16:08','',3063,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Small-business.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3065,1,'2023-03-29 02:21:42','2023-03-29 02:21:42','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Don\'t leave anything on the table.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3064,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Small-business.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3064\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">If you have employee benefits, you\'ve probably heard the common advice to max out your retirement accounts, secure the best health insurance, and take all of your paid leave. While that all sounds relatively straightforward, there are often multiple benefits options to choose from—and if you don\'t know how to take advantage of all that\'s available to you, you could be wasting a significant amount of your compensation package.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\">To go beyond the basics of getting your 401(k) or enrolling in healthcare, you’ll need to do a bit of sleuthing and have a touch of gumption. Financial planning experts—Tennessee-based certified financial planner Brenton Harrison and accredited financial planner Tiffany Grant, MBA—agree that the long-term wins are worth the extra studying or the awkward conversation with your boss, human resources officer, or employee benefits manager. Employee perks can truly be life-changing when you know how to use them.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-8\">Understand your tax-free healthcare accounts</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-9\">\"Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Flex Spending Accounts (FSA), and Dependent Care Flex Spending Accounts are benefits that most employees leave on the table,\" Harrison says. “Each of these accounts allow employees to save and pay for things like health expenses, grooming supplies, and even preschool tuition, all while lowering taxes and increasing take-home pay.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-11\">Estimates state that more than 70 million employees are enrolled in an HSA or FSA—but that doesn\'t mean they know how they work. According to a 2019 Bank of America report, only 57 percent of employees say they have a good understanding of HSAs. Without a thorough understanding of how these accounts work and what they have to offer, you could miss out on crucial savings and investing opportunities.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-15\">These accounts can help you save in a number of unexpected ways, with reimbursements for everything from prenatal vitamins to the Uber ride to the doctor. Harrison says most employers will tell their staff how to sign up, but not how to maximize savings or withdraw funds.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-17\">Here\'s another benefit of these accounts that shouldn\'t be overlooked: “Contributing to a pretax account means the amount of your contribution reduces the income on which you pay taxes,\" Harrison explains. \"An employee making $50,000 who contributes $2,000 to a Flex Spending Account would see their taxable income reduced to $48,000. If their marginal tax rate is 22 percent, this contribution could save them over $400 in taxes, all while establishing a fund for purchases they already make.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-19\">Look beyond standard healthcare benefits</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-20\">Healthcare can cover more than just your trips to the doctor. Depending on your insurance company, you may have access to wellness incentives like discounts on gym memberships, stress-mitigation tools, and even therapy. Recently, more and more employers are even leapfrogging insurance companies and offering these services directly to employees.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-22\">Carrie Huggins, a blogger and stay-at-home mom of seven, recently took on a part-time job just for the benefits—and the wellness perks have been especially important to her. After getting divorced, she researched companies that offer excellent benefits to part-time employees and she’s been intent on taking advantage of everything on offer.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-24\">“I work part-time at a large national home improvement store,\" Huggins says. \"In addition to getting affordable medical coverage and a company match on my 401(k) contribution, I’ve discovered some lesser known benefits by digging into my benefits package.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-26\">Through her package, Huggins was able to sign up for a free year with BetterHelp, a mental health app that allows her to chat with a therapist and do virtual visits—and she saved $250 doing so. Huggins adds that she was relieved to not have to jump through hoops to access the benefit, which applies to both her and her dependent children.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-28\">To name a few other unexpected wellness perks, look out for ergonomic chairs and desks for employees who work from home, as well as free massages, online workouts, and offline gym memberships.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-30\">Start family planning with fertility perks and parental leave</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-31\">According to an early 2022 article in the Harvard Business Review, a recent survey showed that “12 percent of more than 1,000 respondents said they receive fertility and family-forming benefits from their employer.” This means some employers are offering fertility support benefits, including reimbursement or discounts for IVF and egg-freezing as an employee perk. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-33\">Research from Carrot’s global team of fertility experts showed that while 31 percent of people wouldn’t feel comfortable asking their employer for fertility benefits, 77 percent said they would stay at their company longer if fertility benefits were on offer. And 88 percent said they’d consider switching jobs to access fertility benefits. Many big companies like Starbucks, Google, and Apple already offer fertility benefits to employees, but a growing number of startups and regional companies do too.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-35\">Family planning is a huge part of work-life balance, so it’s no wonder that people are also on the lookout for parental leave benefits to support adoption, pregnancy, and postpartum recovery. If you\'re asking your current or potential employer about family planning perks, remember not to just ask about maternity leave, but parental leave—which also applies to non-birthing parents.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-37\">Check out Continuing Education and Upskill Payouts</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\">Student loan forgiveness might seem like it\'s only for public servants, but many companies and institutions offer ways to help employees pay off loans or provide employees with upskill opportunities that won\'t deplete their savings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-40\">Amazon, Disney, and many others offer tuition reimbursement, while others offer discounted or low rates for online training programs or workplace certifications, especially in technological fields. Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning are some popular options, but you can also ask your employer about proprietary training or publicly available subscription platforms that your employer may fund or reimburse.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-42\">Taking advantage of these programs is important for your own growth, and these skills can translate to more money down the line. These renewed qualifications can help you get the next raise or promotion. They may even help you make the leap to a new company or venture.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-44\">Check out your Employee Assistance Program (EAP)</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-45\">These programs go by many names, but many employers offer some kind of employee support program that entails a variety of services, devices, and tools to help employees in all aspects of life.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-47\">In the federal government, many employees can tap into the benefit platform WorkLife4You, but in academia or corporations these services may be branded according to the company. In fact, union employees might get the same directly from the union itself.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-49\">Grant says that EAP benefits are typically available for free, but they are often available through a third-party provider. That’s why it can be a bit hard to know what to ask for and where to find them. Some services are triggered by life events, while others are available on a rolling basis and whenever you need them.  Nevertheless, the support is really beneficial and usually free of charge. EAP programs often include:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-51\" class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Confidential mental health support by trained clinicians</li><li>Financial advice to help with taxes, investment planning, or retirement savings</li><li>Legal guidance from licensed attorneys&nbsp;</li><li>Estate and will preparation guidance</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-53\">So, how do you access these programs? “Most employers have a benefits-at-a-glance document that you can ask for before you even accept the position,\" Grant says. \"If they do not, ask for an overview of the benefits so you can make an informed decision on whether to accept the position.” If you’re already working at the company, review the employee handbook, benefits portal, or ask the HR department for more information.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.realsimple.com/how-to-maximize-employee-benefits-6827528\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','How to Make the Most of Your Employee Benefits','','inherit','closed','closed','','3063-revision-v1','','','2023-03-29 02:21:42','2023-03-29 02:21:42','',3063,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3065',0,'revision','',0),(3066,1,'2023-03-29 02:42:03','2023-03-29 02:42:03','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Hacking refers to activities that seek to compromise digital devices, such as computers, smartphones, tablets, and even entire networks. And while hacking might not always be for malicious purposes, nowadays most references to hacking, and hackers, characterize it/them as unlawful activity by cybercriminals—motivated by financial gain, protest, information gathering (spying), and even just for the “fun” of the challenge.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3067,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Privacy.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3067\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"who-are-hackers\">Who are hackers?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Many think that “hacker” refers to some self-taught whiz kid or rogue programmer skilled at modifying computer hardware or software so it can be used in ways outside the original developers\' intent. But this is a narrow view that doesn\'t begin to encompass the wide range of reasons why someone turns to hacking.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"The-history-of-hacking\">Hacking tools: How do hackers hack?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Hacking is typically technical in nature (like creating malvertising that deposits malware in a drive-by attack requiring no user interaction). But hackers can also use psychology to trick the user into clicking on a malicious attachment or providing personal data. These tactics are referred to as “social engineering.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">In fact, it\'s accurate to characterize hacking as an over-arching umbrella term for activity behind most if not all of the malware and malicious cyberattacks on the computing public, businesses, and governments. Besides social engineering and malvertising, common hacking techniques include:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Botnets</li><li>Browser hijacks</li><li>Denial of service (DDoS) attacks</li><li>Ransomware</li><li>Rootkits</li><li>Trojans</li><li>Viruses</li><li>Worms</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">From script kiddies to organized cybercrime</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">As such, hacking has evolved from teenage mischief into a billion-dollar growth business, whose adherents have established a criminal infrastructure that develops and sells turnkey hacking tools to would-be crooks with less sophisticated technical skills (known as “script kiddies”).</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Example, Windows users are reportedly the target of a wide-spread cybercriminal effort offering remote access to IT systems for just $10 via a dark web hacking store—potentially enabling attackers to steal information, disrupt systems, deploy ransomware, and more. Systems advertised for sale on the forum range from Windows XP through to Windows 10. The storeowners even offer tips for how those using the illicit logins can remain undetected.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"Types-of-hacking\">Types of hacking/hackers</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color\">Broadly speaking, you can say that hackers attempt to break into computers and networks for any of four reasons.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>There\'s criminal financial gain, meaning the theft of credit card numbers or defrauding banking systems.</li><li>Next, gaining street cred and burnishing one\'s reputation within hacker subculture motivates some hackers as they leave their mark on websites they vandalize as proof that they pulled off the hack.</li><li>Then there\'s corporate espionage or cyber espionage, when one company\'s hackers seek to steal information on a competitor\'s products and services to gain a marketplace advantage.</li><li>Finally, entire nations engage in state-sponsored hacking to steal business and/or national intelligence, to destabilize their adversaries\' infrastructure, or even to sow discord and confusion in the target country. (There\'s consensus that China and Russia have carried out such attacks, including one on Forbes.com. In addition, the recent attacks on the Democratic National Committee [DNC] made the news in a big way—especially after Microsoft says hackers accused of hacking into the Democratic National Committee have exploited previously undisclosed flaws in Microsoft\'s Windows operating system and Adobe Systems\' Flash software. There are also instances of hacking courtesy of the United States government.)</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 id=\"ethical-hacking\">Ethical hacking? White, black, and grey hats</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">There\'s also another way we parse hackers. Remember the classic old Western movies? Good guys = white hats. Bad guys = black hats. Today\'s cybersecurity frontier retains that Wild West vibe, with white hat and black hat hackers, and even a third in-between category.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If a hacker is a person with deep understanding of computer systems and software, and who uses that knowledge to somehow subvert that technology, then a black hat hacker does so for stealing something valuable or other malicious reasons. So it\'s reasonable to assign any of those four motivations (theft, reputation, corporate espionage, and nation-state hacking) to the black hats.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">White hat hackers, on the other hand, strive to improve the security of an organization\'s security systems by finding vulnerable flaws so that they can prevent identity theft or other cybercrimes before the black hats notice. Corporations even employ their own white hat hackers as part of their support staff, as a recent article from the New York Times online edition highlights. Or businesses can even outsource their white hat hacking to services such as HackerOne, which tests software products for vulnerabilities and bugs for a bounty.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Finally, there\'s the gray hat crowd, hackers who use their skills to break into systems and networks without permission (just like the black hats). But instead of wreaking criminal havoc, they might report their discovery to the target owner and offer to repair the vulnerability for a small fee.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"Hacking-prevention\">Hacking prevention</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If your computer, tablet, or phone is at the bull\'s-eye of the hacker\'s target, then surround it with concentric rings of precautions.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Anti-malware protection</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">First and foremost, download a reliable anti-malware product (or app for the phone), which can both detect and neutralize malware and block connections to malicious phishing websites. Of course, whether you\'re on Windows, Android, a Mac, an iPhone, or in a business network, we recommend the layered protection of  Malwarebytes for Windows,  Malwarebytes for Mac,  Malwarebytes for Android, Malwarebytes for Chromebook, Malwarebytes for iOS, and  Malwarebytes business products.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Be careful with apps</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Second, only download phone apps from the legitimate marketplaces that police themselves for malware-carrying apps, such as Google Play and Amazon Appstore. (Note that Apple policy restricts iPhone users to download only from the App Store.) Even so, every time you download an app, check the ratings and reviews first. If it has a low rating and a low number of downloads, it is best to avoid that app.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Protect your info</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Know that no bank or online payment system will ever ask you for your login credentials, social security number, or credit card numbers by means of email.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Update your software</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Whether you\'re on your phone or a computer, make sure your operating system remains updated. And update your other resident software as well.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Browse carefully</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Avoid visiting unsafe websites, and never download unverified attachments or click on links in unfamiliar emails. You can also use Malwarebytes Browser Guard for safer browsing. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Password safety</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">All the above is basic hygiene, and always a good idea. But the bad guys are forever looking for a new way into your system. If a hacker discovers one of your passwords that you use for multiple services, they have apps that can breach your other accounts. So make your passwords long and complicated, avoid using the same one for different accounts, and instead use a password manager. Because the value of even a single hacked email account can rain disaster down on you.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A virtual private network, or VPN, is a technology that allows you to establish a secure and private connection to the Internet. VPN essentially acts like a digital middleman between you and the Internet. Your Internet traffic travels through an encrypted tunnel and will look like it’s coming from the VPN server rather than your own IP address (what is IP address). This gives you online privacy and secures your digital footprint - which is very important especially if you are using a public Wi-Fi or a shared Wi-Fi connection. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"Hacking-on-Android-phones\">Hacking on Android phones</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">While most associate hacking with Windows computers, the Android operating system also offers an inviting target for hackers.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A bit of history: Early hackers who obsessively explored low-tech methods for getting around the secure telecommunication networks (and expensive long-distance calls of their era) were originally called phreaks—a combination of the words phone and freaks. They were a defined subculture in the 1970s, and their activity was called phreaking.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Nowadays, phreakers have evolved out of the analog technology era and become hackers in the digital world of more than two billion mobile devices. Mobile phone hackers use a variety of methods to access an individual\'s mobile phone and intercept voicemails, phone calls, text messages, and even the phone\'s microphone and camera, all without that user\'s permission or even knowledge.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Why Android?</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Compared to iPhones, Android phones are much more fractured, whose open-source nature and inconsistencies in standards in terms of software development put the Androids at a greater risk of data corruption and data theft. And any number of bad things result from Android hacking.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Cybercriminals could view your stored data on the phone, including identity and financial information. Likewise, hackers can track your location, force your phone to text premium websites, or even spread their hack (with an embedded malicious link) to others among your contacts, who will click on it because it appears to come from you.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Of course, legitimate law enforcement might hack phones with a warrant to store copies of texts and emails, transcribe private conversations, or follow the suspect\'s movements. But black hat hackers could definitely do harm by accessing your bank account credentials, deleting data, or adding a host of malicious programs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Phishing</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Phone hackers have the advantage of many computer hacking techniques, which are easy to adapt to Androids. Phishing, the crime of targeting individuals or members of entire organizations to lure them into revealing sensitive information through social engineering, is a tried and true method for criminals. In fact, because a phone displays a much smaller address bar compared to a PC, phishing on a mobile Internet browser probably makes it easier to counterfeit a seemingly trusted website without revealing the subtle tells (such as intentional misspellings) that you can see on a desktop browser. So you get a note from your bank asking you to log on to resolve an urgent problem, click on the conveniently provided link, enter your credentials in the form, and the hackers have you.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Trojanized apps</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Trojanized apps downloaded from unsecured marketplaces are another crossover hacker threat to Androids. Major Android app stores (Google and Amazon) keep careful watch on the third-party apps; but embedded malware can get through either occasionally from the trusted sites, or more often from the sketchier ones. This is the way your phone ends up hosting adware, spyware, ransomware, or any other number of malware nasties.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Bluehacking</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">“Bluehacking gains access to your phone when it shows up on an unprotected Bluetooth network.”</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Other methods are even more sophisticated and don\'t require manipulating the user into clicking on a bad link. Bluehacking gains access to your phone when it shows up on an unprotected Bluetooth network. It\'s even possible to mimic a trusted network or cell phone tower to re-route text messages or log-on sessions. And if you leave your unlocked phone unattended in a public space, instead of just stealing it, a hacker can clone it by copying the SIM card, which is like handing over the keys to your castle.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"Hacking-on-Macs\">Hacking on Macs</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Lest you think that hacking is only a Windows problem, Mac users, be assured—you are not immune. In 2021, Apple publicly confirmed that yes, Macs get malware. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Previous to that admission, in 2017 there was a phishing campaign targeting Mac users, mostly in Europe. Conveyed by a Trojan that was signed with a valid Apple developer certificate, the hack phished for credentials by throwing up a full-screen alert claiming that there\'s an essential OS X update waiting to be installed. If the hack succeeded, the attackers gained complete access to all of the victim\'s communication, allowing them to eavesdrop on all web browsing, even if it\'s an HTTPS connection with the lock icon.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">In addition to social engineering hacks on Macs, the occasional hardware flaw can also create vulnerabilities, as was the case with the so-called Meltdown and Spectre flaws that The Guardian reported in early 2018. Apple responded by developing protections against the flaw, but advised customers to download software only from trusted sources such as its iOS and Mac App Stores to help prevent hackers from being able to use the processor vulnerabilities.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">And then there was the insidious Calisto, a variant of the Proton Mac malware that operated in the wild for two years before being discovered in July 2018. It was buried in a fake Mac cybersecurity installer, and, among other functions, collected usernames and passwords.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">More recent examples of hacking on Macs and Mac malware include Silver Sparrow, ThiefQuest, and malware masquerading as iTerm2. From viruses to malware to security flaws, hackers have created an extensive toolkit to wreak hacker havoc on your Mac. A good Mac antivirus and anti-malware program will help defend your Mac against such malware.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"how-does-hacking-affect-my-business\">How does hacking affect my business?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">For criminal-minded hackers, business is booming. Ransomware attacks on major businesses have been featured heavily in the news throughout 2021. Some of these have been high-profile, such as the attacks on the Colonial Pipeline, JBS (the world\'s largest meatpacker), or the large ferry service Steamship Authority. There are a number of ransomware gangs, Ransomware-as-a-Service providers, and types of ransomware out in the wild. You may be familiar with names like Conti, Ryuk, or GandCrab, for example. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Trojans remain a threat to businesses, with some of the most well-known being Emotet and TrickBot.  Emotet, Trickbot, and GandCrab all rely on malspam as their primary vector of infection. These malicious spam emails, disguised as familiar brands, trick your end users into clicking malicious download links or opening an attachment loaded with malware. In an interesting twist, Emotet has evolved from being a banking Trojan in its own right into a tool for delivering other malware, including other banking Trojans like Trickbot.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">So what happens when cybercriminals are able to hack into your network?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Emotet, for instance, hobbled critical systems in the City of Allentown, PA, requiring help from Microsoft’s incident response team to clean up. All told, the city racked up remediation costs to the tune of $1 million.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">GandCrab is just as awful. It’s been estimated the ransomware with the gross sounding name has already netted its authors somewhere around $300 million in paid ransoms, with individual ransoms set from $600 to $700,000.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">How to protect your business from hacking</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">In light of the ransomware and Trojan attacks currently favored by criminal hackers, the question now is: how can I protect my business from hacking? Here’s some tips for staying safe.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Implement network segmentation. Spreading your data across smaller subnetworks reduces your exposure during an attack. This can help contain infections to only a few endpoints instead of your entire infrastructure.</li><li>Enforce the principle of least privilege (PoLP). By only giving users the access level they need to do their jobs and nothing more you can minimize the potential damage from ransomware attacks.</li><li>Backup all your data. This goes for all the endpoints on your network and network shares too. As long as your data is archived, you can always wipe an infected system and restore from a backup.</li><li>Educate end users on how to spot malspam. Users should be wary of unsolicited emails and attachments from unknown senders. When handling attachments, your users should avoid executing executable files and avoid enabling macros on Office files. When in doubt, reach out. Train end users to inquire further if suspicious emails appear to be from a trusted source. One quick phone call or email goes a long way towards avoiding malware.</li><li>Educate staff on creating strong passwords and implement some form of multi-factor authentication (MFA)—two-factor authentication at a bare minimum.</li><li>Patch and update your software. Emotet and Trickbot rely on the Windows EternalBlue/DoublePulsar vulnerabilities to infect machines and spread across networks so keep your systems up-to-date.</li><li>Get proactive about endpoint protection. Malwarebytes, for example, has multiple options for your business with Endpoint Protection and Endpoint Detection and Response.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.malwarebytes.com/hacker\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Hacking definition: What is hacking?','','publish','closed','closed','','hacking-definition-what-is-hacking','','','2023-03-29 02:42:03','2023-03-29 02:42:03','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3066',0,'post','',0),(3067,1,'2023-03-29 02:23:15','2023-03-29 02:23:15','','Privacy','','inherit','closed','closed','','privacy-9','','','2023-03-29 02:23:15','2023-03-29 02:23:15','',3066,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Privacy.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3068,1,'2023-03-29 02:42:03','2023-03-29 02:42:03','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Hacking refers to activities that seek to compromise digital devices, such as computers, smartphones, tablets, and even entire networks. And while hacking might not always be for malicious purposes, nowadays most references to hacking, and hackers, characterize it/them as unlawful activity by cybercriminals—motivated by financial gain, protest, information gathering (spying), and even just for the “fun” of the challenge.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3067,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Privacy.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3067\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"who-are-hackers\">Who are hackers?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Many think that “hacker” refers to some self-taught whiz kid or rogue programmer skilled at modifying computer hardware or software so it can be used in ways outside the original developers\' intent. But this is a narrow view that doesn\'t begin to encompass the wide range of reasons why someone turns to hacking.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"The-history-of-hacking\">Hacking tools: How do hackers hack?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Hacking is typically technical in nature (like creating malvertising that deposits malware in a drive-by attack requiring no user interaction). But hackers can also use psychology to trick the user into clicking on a malicious attachment or providing personal data. These tactics are referred to as “social engineering.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">In fact, it\'s accurate to characterize hacking as an over-arching umbrella term for activity behind most if not all of the malware and malicious cyberattacks on the computing public, businesses, and governments. Besides social engineering and malvertising, common hacking techniques include:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Botnets</li><li>Browser hijacks</li><li>Denial of service (DDoS) attacks</li><li>Ransomware</li><li>Rootkits</li><li>Trojans</li><li>Viruses</li><li>Worms</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">From script kiddies to organized cybercrime</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">As such, hacking has evolved from teenage mischief into a billion-dollar growth business, whose adherents have established a criminal infrastructure that develops and sells turnkey hacking tools to would-be crooks with less sophisticated technical skills (known as “script kiddies”).</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Example, Windows users are reportedly the target of a wide-spread cybercriminal effort offering remote access to IT systems for just $10 via a dark web hacking store—potentially enabling attackers to steal information, disrupt systems, deploy ransomware, and more. Systems advertised for sale on the forum range from Windows XP through to Windows 10. The storeowners even offer tips for how those using the illicit logins can remain undetected.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"Types-of-hacking\">Types of hacking/hackers</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color\">Broadly speaking, you can say that hackers attempt to break into computers and networks for any of four reasons.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>There\'s criminal financial gain, meaning the theft of credit card numbers or defrauding banking systems.</li><li>Next, gaining street cred and burnishing one\'s reputation within hacker subculture motivates some hackers as they leave their mark on websites they vandalize as proof that they pulled off the hack.</li><li>Then there\'s corporate espionage or cyber espionage, when one company\'s hackers seek to steal information on a competitor\'s products and services to gain a marketplace advantage.</li><li>Finally, entire nations engage in state-sponsored hacking to steal business and/or national intelligence, to destabilize their adversaries\' infrastructure, or even to sow discord and confusion in the target country. (There\'s consensus that China and Russia have carried out such attacks, including one on Forbes.com. In addition, the recent attacks on the Democratic National Committee [DNC] made the news in a big way—especially after Microsoft says hackers accused of hacking into the Democratic National Committee have exploited previously undisclosed flaws in Microsoft\'s Windows operating system and Adobe Systems\' Flash software. There are also instances of hacking courtesy of the United States government.)</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 id=\"ethical-hacking\">Ethical hacking? White, black, and grey hats</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">There\'s also another way we parse hackers. Remember the classic old Western movies? Good guys = white hats. Bad guys = black hats. Today\'s cybersecurity frontier retains that Wild West vibe, with white hat and black hat hackers, and even a third in-between category.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If a hacker is a person with deep understanding of computer systems and software, and who uses that knowledge to somehow subvert that technology, then a black hat hacker does so for stealing something valuable or other malicious reasons. So it\'s reasonable to assign any of those four motivations (theft, reputation, corporate espionage, and nation-state hacking) to the black hats.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">White hat hackers, on the other hand, strive to improve the security of an organization\'s security systems by finding vulnerable flaws so that they can prevent identity theft or other cybercrimes before the black hats notice. Corporations even employ their own white hat hackers as part of their support staff, as a recent article from the New York Times online edition highlights. Or businesses can even outsource their white hat hacking to services such as HackerOne, which tests software products for vulnerabilities and bugs for a bounty.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Finally, there\'s the gray hat crowd, hackers who use their skills to break into systems and networks without permission (just like the black hats). But instead of wreaking criminal havoc, they might report their discovery to the target owner and offer to repair the vulnerability for a small fee.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"Hacking-prevention\">Hacking prevention</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If your computer, tablet, or phone is at the bull\'s-eye of the hacker\'s target, then surround it with concentric rings of precautions.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Anti-malware protection</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">First and foremost, download a reliable anti-malware product (or app for the phone), which can both detect and neutralize malware and block connections to malicious phishing websites. Of course, whether you\'re on Windows, Android, a Mac, an iPhone, or in a business network, we recommend the layered protection of  Malwarebytes for Windows,  Malwarebytes for Mac,  Malwarebytes for Android, Malwarebytes for Chromebook, Malwarebytes for iOS, and  Malwarebytes business products.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Be careful with apps</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Second, only download phone apps from the legitimate marketplaces that police themselves for malware-carrying apps, such as Google Play and Amazon Appstore. (Note that Apple policy restricts iPhone users to download only from the App Store.) Even so, every time you download an app, check the ratings and reviews first. If it has a low rating and a low number of downloads, it is best to avoid that app.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Protect your info</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Know that no bank or online payment system will ever ask you for your login credentials, social security number, or credit card numbers by means of email.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Update your software</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Whether you\'re on your phone or a computer, make sure your operating system remains updated. And update your other resident software as well.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Browse carefully</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Avoid visiting unsafe websites, and never download unverified attachments or click on links in unfamiliar emails. You can also use Malwarebytes Browser Guard for safer browsing. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Password safety</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">All the above is basic hygiene, and always a good idea. But the bad guys are forever looking for a new way into your system. If a hacker discovers one of your passwords that you use for multiple services, they have apps that can breach your other accounts. So make your passwords long and complicated, avoid using the same one for different accounts, and instead use a password manager. Because the value of even a single hacked email account can rain disaster down on you.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)</h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A virtual private network, or VPN, is a technology that allows you to establish a secure and private connection to the Internet. VPN essentially acts like a digital middleman between you and the Internet. Your Internet traffic travels through an encrypted tunnel and will look like it’s coming from the VPN server rather than your own IP address (what is IP address). This gives you online privacy and secures your digital footprint - which is very important especially if you are using a public Wi-Fi or a shared Wi-Fi connection. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"Hacking-on-Android-phones\">Hacking on Android phones</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">While most associate hacking with Windows computers, the Android operating system also offers an inviting target for hackers.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A bit of history: Early hackers who obsessively explored low-tech methods for getting around the secure telecommunication networks (and expensive long-distance calls of their era) were originally called phreaks—a combination of the words phone and freaks. They were a defined subculture in the 1970s, and their activity was called phreaking.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Nowadays, phreakers have evolved out of the analog technology era and become hackers in the digital world of more than two billion mobile devices. Mobile phone hackers use a variety of methods to access an individual\'s mobile phone and intercept voicemails, phone calls, text messages, and even the phone\'s microphone and camera, all without that user\'s permission or even knowledge.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Why Android?</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Compared to iPhones, Android phones are much more fractured, whose open-source nature and inconsistencies in standards in terms of software development put the Androids at a greater risk of data corruption and data theft. And any number of bad things result from Android hacking.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Cybercriminals could view your stored data on the phone, including identity and financial information. Likewise, hackers can track your location, force your phone to text premium websites, or even spread their hack (with an embedded malicious link) to others among your contacts, who will click on it because it appears to come from you.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Of course, legitimate law enforcement might hack phones with a warrant to store copies of texts and emails, transcribe private conversations, or follow the suspect\'s movements. But black hat hackers could definitely do harm by accessing your bank account credentials, deleting data, or adding a host of malicious programs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Phishing</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Phone hackers have the advantage of many computer hacking techniques, which are easy to adapt to Androids. Phishing, the crime of targeting individuals or members of entire organizations to lure them into revealing sensitive information through social engineering, is a tried and true method for criminals. In fact, because a phone displays a much smaller address bar compared to a PC, phishing on a mobile Internet browser probably makes it easier to counterfeit a seemingly trusted website without revealing the subtle tells (such as intentional misspellings) that you can see on a desktop browser. So you get a note from your bank asking you to log on to resolve an urgent problem, click on the conveniently provided link, enter your credentials in the form, and the hackers have you.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Trojanized apps</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Trojanized apps downloaded from unsecured marketplaces are another crossover hacker threat to Androids. Major Android app stores (Google and Amazon) keep careful watch on the third-party apps; but embedded malware can get through either occasionally from the trusted sites, or more often from the sketchier ones. This is the way your phone ends up hosting adware, spyware, ransomware, or any other number of malware nasties.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Bluehacking</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">“Bluehacking gains access to your phone when it shows up on an unprotected Bluetooth network.”</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Other methods are even more sophisticated and don\'t require manipulating the user into clicking on a bad link. Bluehacking gains access to your phone when it shows up on an unprotected Bluetooth network. It\'s even possible to mimic a trusted network or cell phone tower to re-route text messages or log-on sessions. And if you leave your unlocked phone unattended in a public space, instead of just stealing it, a hacker can clone it by copying the SIM card, which is like handing over the keys to your castle.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"Hacking-on-Macs\">Hacking on Macs</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Lest you think that hacking is only a Windows problem, Mac users, be assured—you are not immune. In 2021, Apple publicly confirmed that yes, Macs get malware. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Previous to that admission, in 2017 there was a phishing campaign targeting Mac users, mostly in Europe. Conveyed by a Trojan that was signed with a valid Apple developer certificate, the hack phished for credentials by throwing up a full-screen alert claiming that there\'s an essential OS X update waiting to be installed. If the hack succeeded, the attackers gained complete access to all of the victim\'s communication, allowing them to eavesdrop on all web browsing, even if it\'s an HTTPS connection with the lock icon.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">In addition to social engineering hacks on Macs, the occasional hardware flaw can also create vulnerabilities, as was the case with the so-called Meltdown and Spectre flaws that The Guardian reported in early 2018. Apple responded by developing protections against the flaw, but advised customers to download software only from trusted sources such as its iOS and Mac App Stores to help prevent hackers from being able to use the processor vulnerabilities.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">And then there was the insidious Calisto, a variant of the Proton Mac malware that operated in the wild for two years before being discovered in July 2018. It was buried in a fake Mac cybersecurity installer, and, among other functions, collected usernames and passwords.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">More recent examples of hacking on Macs and Mac malware include Silver Sparrow, ThiefQuest, and malware masquerading as iTerm2. From viruses to malware to security flaws, hackers have created an extensive toolkit to wreak hacker havoc on your Mac. A good Mac antivirus and anti-malware program will help defend your Mac against such malware.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"how-does-hacking-affect-my-business\">How does hacking affect my business?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">For criminal-minded hackers, business is booming. Ransomware attacks on major businesses have been featured heavily in the news throughout 2021. Some of these have been high-profile, such as the attacks on the Colonial Pipeline, JBS (the world\'s largest meatpacker), or the large ferry service Steamship Authority. There are a number of ransomware gangs, Ransomware-as-a-Service providers, and types of ransomware out in the wild. You may be familiar with names like Conti, Ryuk, or GandCrab, for example. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Trojans remain a threat to businesses, with some of the most well-known being Emotet and TrickBot.  Emotet, Trickbot, and GandCrab all rely on malspam as their primary vector of infection. These malicious spam emails, disguised as familiar brands, trick your end users into clicking malicious download links or opening an attachment loaded with malware. In an interesting twist, Emotet has evolved from being a banking Trojan in its own right into a tool for delivering other malware, including other banking Trojans like Trickbot.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">So what happens when cybercriminals are able to hack into your network?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Emotet, for instance, hobbled critical systems in the City of Allentown, PA, requiring help from Microsoft’s incident response team to clean up. All told, the city racked up remediation costs to the tune of $1 million.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">GandCrab is just as awful. It’s been estimated the ransomware with the gross sounding name has already netted its authors somewhere around $300 million in paid ransoms, with individual ransoms set from $600 to $700,000.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">How to protect your business from hacking</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">In light of the ransomware and Trojan attacks currently favored by criminal hackers, the question now is: how can I protect my business from hacking? Here’s some tips for staying safe.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Implement network segmentation. Spreading your data across smaller subnetworks reduces your exposure during an attack. This can help contain infections to only a few endpoints instead of your entire infrastructure.</li><li>Enforce the principle of least privilege (PoLP). By only giving users the access level they need to do their jobs and nothing more you can minimize the potential damage from ransomware attacks.</li><li>Backup all your data. This goes for all the endpoints on your network and network shares too. As long as your data is archived, you can always wipe an infected system and restore from a backup.</li><li>Educate end users on how to spot malspam. Users should be wary of unsolicited emails and attachments from unknown senders. When handling attachments, your users should avoid executing executable files and avoid enabling macros on Office files. When in doubt, reach out. Train end users to inquire further if suspicious emails appear to be from a trusted source. One quick phone call or email goes a long way towards avoiding malware.</li><li>Educate staff on creating strong passwords and implement some form of multi-factor authentication (MFA)—two-factor authentication at a bare minimum.</li><li>Patch and update your software. Emotet and Trickbot rely on the Windows EternalBlue/DoublePulsar vulnerabilities to infect machines and spread across networks so keep your systems up-to-date.</li><li>Get proactive about endpoint protection. Malwarebytes, for example, has multiple options for your business with Endpoint Protection and Endpoint Detection and Response.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.malwarebytes.com/hacker\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Hacking definition: What is hacking?','','inherit','closed','closed','','3066-revision-v1','','','2023-03-29 02:42:03','2023-03-29 02:42:03','',3066,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3068',0,'revision','',0),(3069,1,'2023-03-29 02:49:39','2023-03-29 02:49:39','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">To create value for a business, you need to be able to do more than just put together a fancy presentation and come up with long, impressive words at meetings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3070,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Leadearship.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3070\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">With so much technology and information at our hands today, we can\'t become influential leaders by solely relying on old-fashioned methods. To create value for a business, you need to be able to do more than just put together a fancy presentation and come up with long, impressive words at meetings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You need to be a goal setter who knows how to execute an efficient plan that will allow you and your business to achieve your chosen objectives. Instead of thinking of the who, what, where, and when, try thinking about how and what needs to be done to stay ahead of the competition.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Leaders are more than just delegators; they get their hands dirty, and when the going gets tough, they keep going. To be a successful leader, you need motivation, drive, passion, and the ability to think outside the box. Here are 10 ways leaders think differently.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>1. They execute with a goal in mind.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A leader doesn\'t complete a task with no questions asked. Leaders execute everything with a specific set of objectives in mind. As a leader, it\'s important to have a reason for doing everything you do; if you don\'t, it may mean you are taking on unnecessary tasks.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Leaders are motivated by reward, and whether or not that reward is tangible, it should drive you towards fulfilling your purpose. To have a leader\'s mindset, you must be 100 percent sure of what you need to achieve and how it will benefit you and your organization.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>2. They stay on strategy.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Have you ever been at work and had a colleague come to you asking for help with a task? Did this work seem completely pointless? Did you do it anyway without asking about its purpose? If so, you should start reconsidering who you say \"yes\" to.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If demands and requests are not on strategy to help achieve the most important goals set out by you and your company, they aren\'t worth your time (at least not for now). Stay on strategy and avoid off-strategy demands that take up your time, energy, and resources. A real leader is able to recognize the value of requests and decline those that will not create an immediate benefit to the cause.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>3. They know perfection doesn\'t exist.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">There is no such thing as perfect. If you\'re still chasing perfect, you should stop and think about the meaning of perfect. The fact of the matter is, if you have created a strategy that you are spending half of your time trying to perfect, you will never be satisfied with it. No matter how well you implement your strategy, you will find something that can be improved, so go with what you have and amend major glitches along the way.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>4. They focus on the how, not the what.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A leader already knows the goals and objectives; the most important part is how these are going to be achieved. Leaders spend up to 20 percent of their time thinking about the \"what\" and 80 percent or more thinking about the \"how\". Often, leaders don\'t succeed because they think of a eureka idea, bark orders, and aren\'t able to understand why these orders haven\'t been met.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A real leader establishes clear aims and objectives and then spends most of his or her time finding a way to reach these goals. In other words, successful leaders are not just ideas people; they are able to work out the perfect execution in order to make those ideas a reality.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>5. They ask questions (about everything).</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">To be a leader, you need to be knowledgeable. To be knowledgeable, you need to ask questions. To ask questions, you need to be interested enough to ask them. Successful leaders have the confidence to question just about anything.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">They want to know the ins and outs of the conversations they are having. They do so in order to not only educate themselves but also gather their opinions on certain matters. It\'s also a great way to become more innovative, as you can gather information on topics that many take for granted.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>6. They gamble strategically.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Risk taking has its disadvantages, but when done strategically, it can bring forward rewards that can\'t be accomplished any other way. Leaders don\'t sit and wait for an opportunity to arise; they think long and hard about innovative ways to take their ideas to the next level.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Once they know the \"how\", they calculate risk versus reward and establish whether or not the risk is worth it. People who dare to jump in at the deep end in an intelligent and calculated manner come out swimming a lot quicker than those who sit around waiting for something to land in front of them.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>7. They reflect before they act, not after.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Risk taking must be calculated to be efficient...the same goes with acting. Reflecting before you act, speak, respond, or engage your emotions will give you perspective. Reflective thinking is the only way you can really distance yourself from a situation. Before acting on anything, you need to understand other people\'s perspectives, emotions, and thoughts. From there, you can make an educated decision regarding the best path towards success.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>8. They participate in collaborative thinking.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The term \"bouncing ideas off each other\" is one of the most valuable ideas to learn as a leader. A successful leader doesn\'t assume he or she knows everything better than everyone else. On the contrary, leaders participate in collaborative thinking to get feedback, find flaws in their ideas they may have missed, and expand on their ideas to improve them.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>9. They see the bigger picture.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Leaders are best known for their ability to think outside the box and see the bigger picture. Have you ever encountered a boss who\'s able to listen quietly during a meeting and then share ideas from nowhere that you listen to and think \"Oh yeah, I hadn\'t thought of that!\". That is exactly why that person is the boss.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Leaders can see both the pros and cons of an idea. They are able to disconnect from situations and conversations emotionally in order to take every aspect into consideration before making any remarks or giving any feedback. To be a leader, you need to train your brain to connect the dots quickly and efficiently.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>10. They can simplify difficult tasks.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Organizations of all sizes have their individual processes. They\'re used to having tasks performed in specific ways so that standards remain uniform across the board. Leaders are able to identify when those standards are not as efficient as they could be and then simplify them to make tasks easier.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>Finally…</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Becoming a leader doesn\'t happen overnight. It requires a specific set of skills and a mindset that can only be acquired with time. That said, by implementing some of the various ways of thinking, acting, and reacting mentioned above, you will be leading yourself and your teams to success in no time!</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/10-ways-leaders-think-differently/295791\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','10 Ways Leaders Think Differently','','publish','closed','closed','','10-ways-leaders-think-differently','','','2023-03-29 02:49:39','2023-03-29 02:49:39','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3069',0,'post','',0),(3070,1,'2023-03-29 02:43:13','2023-03-29 02:43:13','','Leadearship','','inherit','closed','closed','','leadearship','','','2023-03-29 02:43:13','2023-03-29 02:43:13','',3069,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Leadearship.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3071,1,'2023-03-29 02:49:39','2023-03-29 02:49:39','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">To create value for a business, you need to be able to do more than just put together a fancy presentation and come up with long, impressive words at meetings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3070,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Leadearship.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3070\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">With so much technology and information at our hands today, we can\'t become influential leaders by solely relying on old-fashioned methods. To create value for a business, you need to be able to do more than just put together a fancy presentation and come up with long, impressive words at meetings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You need to be a goal setter who knows how to execute an efficient plan that will allow you and your business to achieve your chosen objectives. Instead of thinking of the who, what, where, and when, try thinking about how and what needs to be done to stay ahead of the competition.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Leaders are more than just delegators; they get their hands dirty, and when the going gets tough, they keep going. To be a successful leader, you need motivation, drive, passion, and the ability to think outside the box. Here are 10 ways leaders think differently.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>1. They execute with a goal in mind.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A leader doesn\'t complete a task with no questions asked. Leaders execute everything with a specific set of objectives in mind. As a leader, it\'s important to have a reason for doing everything you do; if you don\'t, it may mean you are taking on unnecessary tasks.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Leaders are motivated by reward, and whether or not that reward is tangible, it should drive you towards fulfilling your purpose. To have a leader\'s mindset, you must be 100 percent sure of what you need to achieve and how it will benefit you and your organization.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>2. They stay on strategy.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Have you ever been at work and had a colleague come to you asking for help with a task? Did this work seem completely pointless? Did you do it anyway without asking about its purpose? If so, you should start reconsidering who you say \"yes\" to.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If demands and requests are not on strategy to help achieve the most important goals set out by you and your company, they aren\'t worth your time (at least not for now). Stay on strategy and avoid off-strategy demands that take up your time, energy, and resources. A real leader is able to recognize the value of requests and decline those that will not create an immediate benefit to the cause.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>3. They know perfection doesn\'t exist.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">There is no such thing as perfect. If you\'re still chasing perfect, you should stop and think about the meaning of perfect. The fact of the matter is, if you have created a strategy that you are spending half of your time trying to perfect, you will never be satisfied with it. No matter how well you implement your strategy, you will find something that can be improved, so go with what you have and amend major glitches along the way.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>4. They focus on the how, not the what.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A leader already knows the goals and objectives; the most important part is how these are going to be achieved. Leaders spend up to 20 percent of their time thinking about the \"what\" and 80 percent or more thinking about the \"how\". Often, leaders don\'t succeed because they think of a eureka idea, bark orders, and aren\'t able to understand why these orders haven\'t been met.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A real leader establishes clear aims and objectives and then spends most of his or her time finding a way to reach these goals. In other words, successful leaders are not just ideas people; they are able to work out the perfect execution in order to make those ideas a reality.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>5. They ask questions (about everything).</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">To be a leader, you need to be knowledgeable. To be knowledgeable, you need to ask questions. To ask questions, you need to be interested enough to ask them. Successful leaders have the confidence to question just about anything.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">They want to know the ins and outs of the conversations they are having. They do so in order to not only educate themselves but also gather their opinions on certain matters. It\'s also a great way to become more innovative, as you can gather information on topics that many take for granted.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>6. They gamble strategically.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Risk taking has its disadvantages, but when done strategically, it can bring forward rewards that can\'t be accomplished any other way. Leaders don\'t sit and wait for an opportunity to arise; they think long and hard about innovative ways to take their ideas to the next level.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Once they know the \"how\", they calculate risk versus reward and establish whether or not the risk is worth it. People who dare to jump in at the deep end in an intelligent and calculated manner come out swimming a lot quicker than those who sit around waiting for something to land in front of them.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>7. They reflect before they act, not after.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Risk taking must be calculated to be efficient...the same goes with acting. Reflecting before you act, speak, respond, or engage your emotions will give you perspective. Reflective thinking is the only way you can really distance yourself from a situation. Before acting on anything, you need to understand other people\'s perspectives, emotions, and thoughts. From there, you can make an educated decision regarding the best path towards success.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>8. They participate in collaborative thinking.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The term \"bouncing ideas off each other\" is one of the most valuable ideas to learn as a leader. A successful leader doesn\'t assume he or she knows everything better than everyone else. On the contrary, leaders participate in collaborative thinking to get feedback, find flaws in their ideas they may have missed, and expand on their ideas to improve them.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>9. They see the bigger picture.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Leaders are best known for their ability to think outside the box and see the bigger picture. Have you ever encountered a boss who\'s able to listen quietly during a meeting and then share ideas from nowhere that you listen to and think \"Oh yeah, I hadn\'t thought of that!\". That is exactly why that person is the boss.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Leaders can see both the pros and cons of an idea. They are able to disconnect from situations and conversations emotionally in order to take every aspect into consideration before making any remarks or giving any feedback. To be a leader, you need to train your brain to connect the dots quickly and efficiently.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>10. They can simplify difficult tasks.</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Organizations of all sizes have their individual processes. They\'re used to having tasks performed in specific ways so that standards remain uniform across the board. Leaders are able to identify when those standards are not as efficient as they could be and then simplify them to make tasks easier.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\"><strong>Finally…</strong></h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Becoming a leader doesn\'t happen overnight. It requires a specific set of skills and a mindset that can only be acquired with time. That said, by implementing some of the various ways of thinking, acting, and reacting mentioned above, you will be leading yourself and your teams to success in no time!</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/10-ways-leaders-think-differently/295791\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','10 Ways Leaders Think Differently','','inherit','closed','closed','','3069-revision-v1','','','2023-03-29 02:49:39','2023-03-29 02:49:39','',3069,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3071',0,'revision','',0),(3072,1,'2023-03-29 02:57:00','2023-03-29 02:57:00','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Mindfulness pros break down why mindfulness and your running shoes go so well together—and how to practice mindfulness while you’re in motion.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3073,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Health.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3073\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">These days, folks are striving to be more mindful in every part of their lives. But seriously, what does that even mean?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-1\">Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment or evaluation. In other words, simply noticing, says Anna Hennings, MA, a Portland-based mental performance consultant with an advanced degree in sport psychology. \"[It\'s] noticing your thoughts, your breath, the sensations in your body; noticing when your mind wanders off or when something distracts you,\" she says. And you do this without lingering or ruminating on whatever your observation.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\">As a runner, specifically, \"it\'s about developing a deeper relationship with running other than just clocking up miles to share with strangers on Strava, or blindly preparing for your next marathon,\" says Charlie Dark, a Lululemon ambassador, yoga instructor, runner, and founder of the London-based Run Dem Crew. \"A mindful runner is someone who strives to evaluate their run beyond just metrics on a watch and the performance of the body, and doesn\'t just focus on distance and time, but also considers the impact of the run on the mind, the lessons learned on the run, and how that information can be shared to inspire others.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-3\">When we do this, when we tap into what Dark calls the meditative flow of a run until it becomes effortless and easy—you know, that feeling where you could run forever—that\'s when the flood gates of benefits open.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-4\">What are the benefits of mindful running?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-5\">\"The intent with mindfulness is enjoying the present moment and process that allows one to reach their outcome without the pressure of having the metrics control you,\" explains Hillary Cauthen, PsyD, CMPC, director of performance services at Texas Optimal Performance &amp; Psychological Services and an executive board member for the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. \"So while I may have my goal to hit a time, while running I am focusing on my movement—the feeling of my body moving across the road, breathing, and feeling the wind—or hearing the birds, which locks me into the moment and can allow me to hit a flow state and run smoother, ultimately hitting the metrics I care about.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-6\">Research backs up mindfulness as a performance aid. One study published in the journal <em>Neural Plasticity</em> showed a boost in endurance when mindful techniques were used in preparation for an event, as well as during an athletic feat. Another study appearing in <em>The Sport Journal</em> revealed that being more mindful had the ability to thwart burnout.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-7\">It should also come as no surprise that being a mindful runner can improve your mental well-being, too. For one, it helps with depression. An eight-week study published in <em>Translational Psychiatry</em> revealed that when people did 30 minutes of focused meditation and aerobic exercise (yes, running counts!) combo twice a week, they experienced a 40 percent drop in depressive symptoms. Bringing mindfulness to running can also be a method of alleviating anxiety. According to research published in the journal <em>Physiology and Behavior,</em> engaging in mindfulness diminished competition-related anxiety. That same research also found that being more mindful came with an uptick in self-confidence.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-9\">Focus is essential when running mindfully</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-10\">It seems obvious, but a lot of us like to zone out. You know, put on power songs (Cue Beyoncé\'s \"Run the World\"), and just run. But when you aren\'t focused, \"you are unaware of your pace, movement, and not locked into body cues that can impact performance,\" Cauthen says. The result: \"You may go too fast, or not be aware of breathing and cause more stress to yourself.\" Being checked in, though, allows us to pay attention to the present moment and ideally enjoy the process with \"a sense of relaxed control.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-11\">Another crucial element involves what\'s going on in your noggin. Understanding your thought pattern while running at a particular pace or intensity can teach you how to stay present and not get overwhelmed by the sensations or feelings of exhaustion, according to Stephen Gonzalez, PhD, CMPC, athletics director for leadership and mental performance at Dartmouth College and an executive board member for the Association for Applied Sport Psychology.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-12\">\"When you notice an unpleasant feeling, try shifting your self-talk from \'I am tired\' to \'I am feeling tired\' or \'I am noticing that I am feeling tired,\'\" Hennings suggests, referring to the emotional agility work of Susan David, PhD, a psychologist at Harvard Medical School. \"\'I am ___\' is definitive. You are 100 percent that emotion or sensation. There is no room for anything else,\" Hastings says. \"However, \'I am feeling ___\' or \'I am noticing that I am feeling ___\' leaves more room for other feelings to exist. This small change allows you to not get so stuck in any one emotion or sensation.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-13\">How to be a more mindful runner</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-14\">Mindfulness is a learned behavior, and it will take some time to embody this approach. To get in tune with yourself while running, try run-specific meditation apps, such as Headspace + Nike guided runs on Nike Running and Run Mindful, or one of the five pro tips below.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-14\">01 of 05</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\">Connect with your breath</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-1\">Bringing your attention back to your breath and the sensation of breathing is a quintessential mindfulness exercise. \"Guiding yourself through your inhales and exhales is a way to bring yourself back into the present,\" Hennings says, adding that this skill will become more natural the more you do it. Her rec: practicing both in and out of your running shoes. For example, while waiting in line, \"instead of immediately grabbing your phone, take three deep, diaphragmatic breaths to anchor yourself to that moment. Becoming a more mindful human will help you become a more mindful runner,\" Hennings says.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">02 of 05</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-2\">Run through your senses</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-3\">Focusing on these things helps keep you connected to the present moment. Next time you run, Hennings suggests you tune into specific physical sensations, like your posture and shoulders, your swinging arms, your rotating hips, your knees, and the impact of each foot plant to help achieve this. The more you can do exercises like this, the more efficiently you can run your body, Dark adds.03of 05</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-4\">Take a break from tech</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-5\">We know data is king. And runners want to record everything: pace, splits, distance—all the things. But that can become all-consuming. Instead, Dark suggests ditching your watch at least once a week to \"focus on feeling, not metrics.\" Ways to do this: \"Beginning and ending your run with focus on the breath, before you even start moving. Closing your eyes and checking in with your body, from the feet, all the way up to the head. Spending the first mile of the run focusing on the feeling of gratitude rather than speed, gently warming up into your run,\" Dark says.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-5\">04 of 05</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-6\">Just visualize it</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-7\">Using mental images to help prep the mind for an experience is a powerful tool. Dark takes advantage of this by first dedicating his runs to people in his life—those who are unable to run, friends who are no longer here, people within the community who he wants to inspire—and then \"I visualize the person in my mind and imagine I\'m running towards them or that they are beside me,\" when his mind begins to wonder, he says.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-7\">05 of 05</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-8\">Try the STOP method</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-9\">When out running and a break presents itself, Gonzalez suggests thinking STOP: 1. Stop. 2. Take a breath 3. Observe your mind and body. and 4. Proceed again. \"Doing the STOP method when at a traffic light or taking a quick water break can help you become more aware of your body and mind,\" he says.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\">Ultimately, with a present-moment mindset, a mindful runner will likely put themselves in the position to increase their performance metrics, Hennings says, and enjoy their runs more along the way.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.realsimple.com/health/fitness-exercise/mindful-running\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','How to Be a Mindful Runner','','publish','closed','closed','','how-to-be-a-mindful-runner','','','2023-03-29 02:57:00','2023-03-29 02:57:00','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3072',0,'post','',0),(3073,1,'2023-03-29 02:50:57','2023-03-29 02:50:57','','Health','','inherit','closed','closed','','health-8','','','2023-03-29 02:50:57','2023-03-29 02:50:57','',3072,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Health.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3074,1,'2023-03-29 02:57:00','2023-03-29 02:57:00','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Mindfulness pros break down why mindfulness and your running shoes go so well together—and how to practice mindfulness while you’re in motion.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3073,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Health.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3073\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">These days, folks are striving to be more mindful in every part of their lives. But seriously, what does that even mean?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-1\">Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment or evaluation. In other words, simply noticing, says Anna Hennings, MA, a Portland-based mental performance consultant with an advanced degree in sport psychology. \"[It\'s] noticing your thoughts, your breath, the sensations in your body; noticing when your mind wanders off or when something distracts you,\" she says. And you do this without lingering or ruminating on whatever your observation.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\">As a runner, specifically, \"it\'s about developing a deeper relationship with running other than just clocking up miles to share with strangers on Strava, or blindly preparing for your next marathon,\" says Charlie Dark, a Lululemon ambassador, yoga instructor, runner, and founder of the London-based Run Dem Crew. \"A mindful runner is someone who strives to evaluate their run beyond just metrics on a watch and the performance of the body, and doesn\'t just focus on distance and time, but also considers the impact of the run on the mind, the lessons learned on the run, and how that information can be shared to inspire others.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-3\">When we do this, when we tap into what Dark calls the meditative flow of a run until it becomes effortless and easy—you know, that feeling where you could run forever—that\'s when the flood gates of benefits open.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-4\">What are the benefits of mindful running?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-5\">\"The intent with mindfulness is enjoying the present moment and process that allows one to reach their outcome without the pressure of having the metrics control you,\" explains Hillary Cauthen, PsyD, CMPC, director of performance services at Texas Optimal Performance &amp; Psychological Services and an executive board member for the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. \"So while I may have my goal to hit a time, while running I am focusing on my movement—the feeling of my body moving across the road, breathing, and feeling the wind—or hearing the birds, which locks me into the moment and can allow me to hit a flow state and run smoother, ultimately hitting the metrics I care about.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-6\">Research backs up mindfulness as a performance aid. One study published in the journal <em>Neural Plasticity</em> showed a boost in endurance when mindful techniques were used in preparation for an event, as well as during an athletic feat. Another study appearing in <em>The Sport Journal</em> revealed that being more mindful had the ability to thwart burnout.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-7\">It should also come as no surprise that being a mindful runner can improve your mental well-being, too. For one, it helps with depression. An eight-week study published in <em>Translational Psychiatry</em> revealed that when people did 30 minutes of focused meditation and aerobic exercise (yes, running counts!) combo twice a week, they experienced a 40 percent drop in depressive symptoms. Bringing mindfulness to running can also be a method of alleviating anxiety. According to research published in the journal <em>Physiology and Behavior,</em> engaging in mindfulness diminished competition-related anxiety. That same research also found that being more mindful came with an uptick in self-confidence.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-9\">Focus is essential when running mindfully</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-10\">It seems obvious, but a lot of us like to zone out. You know, put on power songs (Cue Beyoncé\'s \"Run the World\"), and just run. But when you aren\'t focused, \"you are unaware of your pace, movement, and not locked into body cues that can impact performance,\" Cauthen says. The result: \"You may go too fast, or not be aware of breathing and cause more stress to yourself.\" Being checked in, though, allows us to pay attention to the present moment and ideally enjoy the process with \"a sense of relaxed control.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-11\">Another crucial element involves what\'s going on in your noggin. Understanding your thought pattern while running at a particular pace or intensity can teach you how to stay present and not get overwhelmed by the sensations or feelings of exhaustion, according to Stephen Gonzalez, PhD, CMPC, athletics director for leadership and mental performance at Dartmouth College and an executive board member for the Association for Applied Sport Psychology.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-12\">\"When you notice an unpleasant feeling, try shifting your self-talk from \'I am tired\' to \'I am feeling tired\' or \'I am noticing that I am feeling tired,\'\" Hennings suggests, referring to the emotional agility work of Susan David, PhD, a psychologist at Harvard Medical School. \"\'I am ___\' is definitive. You are 100 percent that emotion or sensation. There is no room for anything else,\" Hastings says. \"However, \'I am feeling ___\' or \'I am noticing that I am feeling ___\' leaves more room for other feelings to exist. This small change allows you to not get so stuck in any one emotion or sensation.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-13\">How to be a more mindful runner</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-14\">Mindfulness is a learned behavior, and it will take some time to embody this approach. To get in tune with yourself while running, try run-specific meditation apps, such as Headspace + Nike guided runs on Nike Running and Run Mindful, or one of the five pro tips below.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-14\">01 of 05</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\">Connect with your breath</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-1\">Bringing your attention back to your breath and the sensation of breathing is a quintessential mindfulness exercise. \"Guiding yourself through your inhales and exhales is a way to bring yourself back into the present,\" Hennings says, adding that this skill will become more natural the more you do it. Her rec: practicing both in and out of your running shoes. For example, while waiting in line, \"instead of immediately grabbing your phone, take three deep, diaphragmatic breaths to anchor yourself to that moment. Becoming a more mindful human will help you become a more mindful runner,\" Hennings says.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">02 of 05</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-2\">Run through your senses</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-3\">Focusing on these things helps keep you connected to the present moment. Next time you run, Hennings suggests you tune into specific physical sensations, like your posture and shoulders, your swinging arms, your rotating hips, your knees, and the impact of each foot plant to help achieve this. The more you can do exercises like this, the more efficiently you can run your body, Dark adds.03of 05</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-4\">Take a break from tech</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-5\">We know data is king. And runners want to record everything: pace, splits, distance—all the things. But that can become all-consuming. Instead, Dark suggests ditching your watch at least once a week to \"focus on feeling, not metrics.\" Ways to do this: \"Beginning and ending your run with focus on the breath, before you even start moving. Closing your eyes and checking in with your body, from the feet, all the way up to the head. Spending the first mile of the run focusing on the feeling of gratitude rather than speed, gently warming up into your run,\" Dark says.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-5\">04 of 05</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-6\">Just visualize it</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-7\">Using mental images to help prep the mind for an experience is a powerful tool. Dark takes advantage of this by first dedicating his runs to people in his life—those who are unable to run, friends who are no longer here, people within the community who he wants to inspire—and then \"I visualize the person in my mind and imagine I\'m running towards them or that they are beside me,\" when his mind begins to wonder, he says.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-7\">05 of 05</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-8\">Try the STOP method</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-9\">When out running and a break presents itself, Gonzalez suggests thinking STOP: 1. Stop. 2. Take a breath 3. Observe your mind and body. and 4. Proceed again. \"Doing the STOP method when at a traffic light or taking a quick water break can help you become more aware of your body and mind,\" he says.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\">Ultimately, with a present-moment mindset, a mindful runner will likely put themselves in the position to increase their performance metrics, Hennings says, and enjoy their runs more along the way.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.realsimple.com/health/fitness-exercise/mindful-running\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','How to Be a Mindful Runner','','inherit','closed','closed','','3072-revision-v1','','','2023-03-29 02:57:00','2023-03-29 02:57:00','',3072,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3074',0,'revision','',0),(3186,1,'2023-05-29 16:32:42','2023-05-29 16:32:42','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Learn how to deal with relatives asking for money with these four tips.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":3187,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/My-project-1-28.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3187\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">Saying \"no\" to someone asking for help can be difficult for many. This can be especially true when the ones asking for help are family—and the help they ask for is money. But as plenty of folks who have done so will tell you, mixing family and money can bring complications, especially when what you truly want is to say \"no.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-1\">\"Some people will go into debt to give money to someone else, and that\'s a huge financial mistake,\" says personal finance advisor Lynnette Khalfani-Cox. \"You have to set firm boundaries and determine the type of help you will give and under what circumstances.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\">Yes, this includes siblings, children, and aging parents—all people with whom it may be especially hard (but all the more important) to set those boundaries. So, how do you stop family members from asking for money? These tips and steps can help.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\">1. Ask Yourself Key Questions</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-2\">People lose jobs. They get sick or get into accidents, have messy divorces, and hit rough patches in life. The question to ask yourself is whether the situation causing a person to request help from you is a rare crisis—or the reflection of long-term financial drama.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-3\">Are you being asked to help with money in a horrible, unprecedented situation? Or is it to protect someone from the natural consequences of their actions—to enable their destructive behavior? In the latter case, \"if the banks won\'t lend them money, why should you?\" Khalfani-Cox asks.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-4\">If you\'re uncomfortable turning someone down, ask yourself why you feel pressured to say \"yes\" when your boundaries feel threatened. \"You can\'t think you are someone else\'s financial savior,\" Khalfani-Cox adds. \"Or that the worst-case scenario will happen if you don\'t step in.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-5\">2. Prepare These Answers</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-7\">When turning down a request for financial assistance, you don\'t need to justify your actions or provide any explanations. A simple \"no\" can suffice.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-8\">If you\'re concerned saying \"no\" will impact your relationship negatively, say so. \"It can literally be \'I don\'t believe this is healthy for you or our relationship. I\'m not trying to hurt you, but I do need to establish financial boundaries,\'\" Khalfani-Cox says.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-9\">Christine Manley, a licensed clinical psychologist based in Nashville, recommends writing yourself a script or role-playing with a partner or friend to help you feel more comfortable initiating the conversation. Manley stresses that setting boundaries tends not to be a one-time conversation: \"People think boundary-setting is going to be this really big, tense, awkward conversation, like an intervention.\" But in practice, \"it\'s just saying \'no\' to requests that make you uncomfortable right when the request happens,\" Manley adds.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-10\">A parent of an adult child asking for financial support could say something like, \"I want to work toward a place where you\'re not dependent on me,\" Manley advises. You could add, \"I\'m still your parent and feel this is in your best interest to help you become a healthier person,\" Manley says. Or, you could work with your child to chart a path toward financial independence over a defined period.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-11\">3. Remember: Temporary Guilt Beats Long-Term Resentment</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-13\">It\'s not uncommon to feel guilt when you say \"no\" to a family member\'s request for financial help. This can be especially true among women.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-14\">\"Women have been very much socialized to experience guilt when they say \'no,\'\" Manley says. \"Just because that guilt is there does not mean you\'re doing something unkind. You\'re allowed to say \'no\' to things that make you uncomfortable.\"</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-15\">And while guilt may be a difficult momentary feeling, a slow-growing, constantly grating chronic resentment at having given beyond your means can be worse.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-16\">4. Be OK With Upsetting Others</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-18\">People tend to struggle to say \"no\" to family members in need because they don\'t want to upset them or risk damaging the relationship. But upsetting people is a natural side effect of having boundaries.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-19\">\"Anytime you\'re trying to set healthy boundaries, it upsets people,\" Manley says. And while people tend to worry most about the people they could offend, Khalfani-Cox says they should worry more about giving in to a request that makes them squirm.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0-20\">\"No person\'s love and acceptance and close ties to their family members should have to be dependent upon the person\'s ability or willingness to provide financial support to the other party,\" Khalfani-Cox concludes.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/money/set-money-boundaries-with-family\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','How to Set Money Boundaries With Family','','publish','closed','closed','','how-to-set-money-boundaries-with-family','','','2023-05-29 16:32:42','2023-05-29 16:32:42','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3186',0,'post','',0),(3076,1,'2023-03-29 03:01:45','2023-03-29 03:01:45','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Modern cars are put through rigorous testing to meet federal safety standards, but there are steps you can take to protect occupants.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3077,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/eqGYMD0.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3077\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Panoramic sunroofs have become a common and desirable feature on new cars and SUVs, with the expansive glass making them feel more spacious. But thousands of people are killed each year in rollover crashes, so it is fair to ask whether these glass roofs are safe in rollover collisions.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">When you look at the overall structural integrity of a vehicle, keep in mind that engineers use stringent performance standards and testing when building a car. Safeguards are developed to then protect against both common and uncommon crash situations. The government scrutinizes car models with crash tests designed to identify structural weaknesses and ensure that all volume production vehicles provide a prescribed level of protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also&nbsp;rates vehicles for roof strength&nbsp;as part of its vehicle ratings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">That said, government crash-test results have shown that the effect of a sunroof is insignificant to the overall strength of the roof. The structure of a car consists of a strong steel frame wrapped by&nbsp;relatively thin metal panels. That steel frame is what is helping to keep you safe. The high-strength steel used in the pillars that hold up the roof—called A, B, C, and D pillars, based on their location—is where the energy is being absorbed in a crash—not the center of the roof.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article,&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/is-a-panoramic-sunroof-safe-in-a-rollover-crash-a6132612300/\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Is a Panoramic Sunroof Safe in a Rollover Crash?','','publish','closed','closed','','is-a-panoramic-sunroof-safe-in-a-rollover-crash','','','2023-03-30 01:11:37','2023-03-30 01:11:37','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3076',0,'post','',0),(3077,1,'2023-03-29 02:58:53','2023-03-29 02:58:53','','eqGYMD0','','inherit','closed','closed','','eqgymd0','','','2023-03-29 02:58:53','2023-03-29 02:58:53','',3076,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/eqGYMD0.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3078,1,'2023-03-29 03:01:45','2023-03-29 03:01:45','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Modern cars are put through rigorous testing to meet federal safety standards, but there are steps you can take to protect occupants</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3077,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/eqGYMD0.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3077\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Panoramic sunroofs have become a common and desirable feature on new cars and SUVs, with the expansive glass making them feel more spacious. But thousands of people are killed each year in rollover crashes, so it is fair to ask whether these glass roofs are safe in rollover collisions.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">When you look at the overall structural integrity of a vehicle, keep in mind that engineers use stringent performance standards and testing when building a car. Safeguards are developed to then protect against both common and uncommon crash situations. The government scrutinizes car models with crash tests designed to identify structural weaknesses and ensure that all volume production vehicles provide a prescribed level of protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also rates vehicles for roof strength as part of its vehicle ratings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">That said, government crash-test results have shown that the effect of a sunroof is insignificant to the overall strength of the roof. The structure of a car consists of a strong steel frame wrapped by relatively thin metal panels. That steel frame is what is helping to keep you safe. The high-strength steel used in the pillars that hold up the roof—called A, B, C, and D pillars, based on their location—is where the energy is being absorbed in a crash—not the center of the roof.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/is-a-panoramic-sunroof-safe-in-a-rollover-crash-a6132612300/\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Is a Panoramic Sunroof Safe in a Rollover Crash?','','inherit','closed','closed','','3076-revision-v1','','','2023-03-29 03:01:45','2023-03-29 03:01:45','',3076,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3078',0,'revision','',0),(3079,1,'2023-03-29 04:48:42','2023-03-29 04:48:42','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">How to weigh buying a home with cash instead of a mortgage?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3080,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Insurance-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3080\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">Cash vs. Mortgage: An Overview</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-1\">Everywhere you turn, you hear how bad it is to carry debt. So naturally, it\'s logical to think that buying a home with cash—or sinking as much cash as possible into your home to avoid the massive debt associated with a&nbsp;mortgage—is the smartest choice for your financial health.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-3\">But there\'s a lot to consider when contemplating purchasing a home outright versus&nbsp;financing&nbsp;it. Here are some of the major differences between using cash and taking out a mortgage to buy a home.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\">KEY TAKEAWAYS</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Paying cash for a home means you won\'t have to pay interest on a loan and any closing costs.</li><li>Paying off your mortgage (or not having one in the first place) provides a significant emotional relief that shouldn\'t be discounted.</li><li>Investing your cash in the stock market, especially in a tax-advantaged account, will leave you with a higher net worth than paying off your mortgage faster.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-10\">Benefits of Cash</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-11\">Paying cash for a home eliminates the need to pay interest on the loan and any&nbsp;closing costs. \"There are no mortgage&nbsp;origination&nbsp;fees, appraisal fees, or other fees charged by lenders to assess buyers,\" says&nbsp;Robert Semrad, JD, senior partner and founder of DebtStoppers Bankruptcy Law Firm, headquartered in Chicago.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-13\">Paying with cash is usually more attractive to sellers, too. \"In a competitive market, a seller is likely to take a cash offer over other offers because they don\'t have to worry about a buyer backing out due to financing being denied,\" says&nbsp;Peter Grabel, managing director, MLO Luxury Mortgage Corp. in Stamford, Conn. A cash home purchase also has the flexibility of closing faster (if desired) than one involving loans, which could be attractive to a seller.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-15\">These benefits to the seller shouldn\'t come without a price. \"A cash buyer might be able to obtain the property for a lower price and receive a \'cash discount\' of sorts,\" says Grabel. A cash buyer could also purchase a home for cash and then still choose to do a&nbsp;cash-out refinance&nbsp;later after they have already closed on the home purchase. This allows them to get the best of both worlds: an easier home-buying process in a hot housing market with multiple competing offers and the long-term financial benefits of taking out a low-interest mortgage while investing their money.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A cash buyer\'s home is not&nbsp;leveraged, which allows a homeowner to sell the house more easily—even at a loss—regardless of market conditions.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-19\">Is a Mortgage Better?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-20\">On the other hand, obtaining financing also has significant benefits. \"Even if a buyer has the ability to pay cash for a home, it might make sense to not tie up a lot of cash to purchase real estate,\" says Grabel. Doing so could limit your options if other needs arise down the road. For example, if the home turns out to need major repairs or renovations, it may be tough to obtain a&nbsp;home equity loan&nbsp;or mortgage, as you don\'t know what your&nbsp;credit score&nbsp;will look like in the future, how much the home will then be worth, or other factors that determine approval for financing. While this is definitely something to keep in mind as a possibility, getting a home equity loan or&nbsp;home equity line of credit (HELOC)&nbsp;is easier the more&nbsp;equity&nbsp;you have in your home.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-22\">Selling a home bought with cash could also be a problem if the owners stretched a lot financially to buy it. \"If cash buyers decide it’s time to sell, they need to make sure they will have sufficient&nbsp;cash reserves&nbsp;to put down as a deposit on the new home,\" says Grabel.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-24\">In short, \"cash buyers need to be sure to leave themselves plenty of&nbsp;liquidity,\" says Grabel. By opting to go with a mortgage, you can give yourself more financial flexibility.&nbsp;Using a&nbsp;mortgage calculator&nbsp;is a good resource to budget some of the costs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-28\">Paying a mortgage can also provide tax benefits for homeowners who&nbsp;itemize deductions&nbsp;versus taking the&nbsp;standard deduction. And while you shouldn\'t opt for a mortgage just to get a deduction, a reduced tax obligation never hurts.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-30\">\"In most cases, mortgage interest payments&nbsp;are tax-deductible,\" says Semrad. The&nbsp;Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA)&nbsp;passed in 2017, however, nearly doubled standard deductions, making it unnecessary for many taxpayers to itemize, meaning they forgo the use of the mortgage interest tax deduction entirely.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-32\">Investing vs. a mortgage</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-33\">Of course, with a mortgage, you end up paying more overall, since it comes with interest payments that do add up over time. But, depending on the state of the stock market, Semrad also notes that saving on&nbsp;mortgage interest&nbsp;by paying cash might not be financially prudent. You could be saving less than that money might have earned had you taken out a mortgage and invested the cash you didn\'t spend on your house.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The average annualized return of the&nbsp;S&amp;P 500. Interest rates have averaged 2.96% to 4.54% over the last decade on a 30-year mortgage. While individual stocks and years can vary wildly, an investment over 30 years in a low-fee&nbsp;index fund&nbsp;would leave you with a much higher net worth than you would pay in interest on a mortgage of the same amount.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-37\">In addition to the stock market earning much more than you\'ll pay in interest, you may also save even more on your taxes than you would save with a mortgage interest deduction. If you use your extra cash to invest in the stock market directly or to live on while investing in a tax-advantaged account like a&nbsp;traditional IRA,&nbsp;Health Savings Account (HSA),&nbsp;401(k), or other workplace plan, you will potentially save more in taxes than you would have by itemizing your mortgage interest.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-39\">Special Considerations</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-40\">In some instances, having a mortgage can protect you from certain&nbsp;creditors. Most states grant consumers a certain level of protection from creditors regarding their home. Some states, such as Florida, completely exempt the house from the reach of certain creditors.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-40\">Other states set limits ranging from as little as $5,000 to up to $550,000. \"That means, regardless of the value of the house, creditors cannot force its sale to satisfy their claims,\" says Semrad. This is known as a&nbsp;homestead exemption, but keep in mind it does not prevent or stop a bank&nbsp;foreclosure&nbsp;if the homeowner defaults on their mortgage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-44\">Here\'s how it works: If your home is worth $500,000 and the home\'s mortgage is $400,000, your homestead exemption could prevent the forced sale of your home in order to pay creditors the $100,000 of&nbsp;equity&nbsp;in your home, as long as your state’s homestead exemption is at least $100,000. If your state\'s exemption is less than $100,000, a&nbsp;bankruptcy trustee&nbsp;could still force the sale of your home to pay creditors with the home\'s equity in excess of the exemption.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Not having a mortgage could negate a homestead exemption if you find yourself seriously in debt in the future.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-48\">Having a mortgage won\'t completely protect your money, however. \"If a homeowner left the funds in the bank and financed the house, a judgment creditor could&nbsp;lien&nbsp;the bank account and use the majority of the funds to satisfy its claims,\" says Semrad.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Can You Be Foreclosed on Without a Mortgage?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Paying off your mortgage doesn\'t mean your house can never be foreclosed on. You can still go into&nbsp;foreclosure through a tax lien. If you fail to pay your property, state, or federal taxes, you could lose your home through a tax lien.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Is It Easier To Buy a House With Cash?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Yes, buying a house is much easier with cash. You don\'t have to wait for an inspection, appraisal, or&nbsp;underwriting. Even though an inspection isn\'t required when you buy a home with cash, it is still a good idea to get one to make sure your new home won\'t come with any expensive surprise repairs. Home sellers will also usually favor cash buyers so they don\'t have to deal with lending timelines, which means your cash offer is more likely to be accepted.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">If You Have Bad Credit, Do You Have To Buy in Cash?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">No. Cash isn\'t your only option for buying a home if you have bad credit. You can still be approved for a mortgage through a&nbsp;Federal Housing Administration Loan&nbsp;with 10% down if your credit score is at least 500. You also may be able to&nbsp;improve your credit&nbsp;more quickly than you think to qualify for a&nbsp;conventional mortgage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-56\">The Bottom Line</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-57\">If you have a chunk of cash sitting around, mathematically you will end up with a higher net worth at the end of 30 years if you invest that money instead of using it to avoid getting a mortgage (assuming mortgage rates stay low and stock market gains follow the same average annualized return they have since 1929). However, not having a mortgage gives you a sense of freedom that is hard to replicate. If that feeling is worth enough money to you, then buy your house in cash.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article,&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/111214/buying-home-cash-vs-mortgage.asp\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Buying a House With Cash vs. Getting a Mortgage','','publish','closed','closed','','buying-a-house-with-cash-vs-getting-a-mortgage','','','2023-03-30 01:12:46','2023-03-30 01:12:46','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3079',0,'post','',0),(3080,1,'2023-03-29 03:10:47','2023-03-29 03:10:47','','Insurance-1','','inherit','closed','closed','','insurance-1-11','','','2023-03-29 03:10:47','2023-03-29 03:10:47','',3079,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Insurance-1.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3081,1,'2023-03-29 04:48:42','2023-03-29 04:48:42','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">How to weigh buying a home with cash instead of a mortgage</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3080,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Insurance-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3080\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">Cash vs. Mortgage: An Overview</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-1\">Everywhere you turn, you hear how bad it is to carry debt. So naturally, it\'s logical to think that buying a home with cash—or sinking as much cash as possible into your home to avoid the massive debt associated with a mortgage—is the smartest choice for your financial health.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-3\">But there\'s a lot to consider when contemplating purchasing a home outright versus financing it. Here are some of the major differences between using cash and taking out a mortgage to buy a home.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\">KEY TAKEAWAYS</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Paying cash for a home means you won\'t have to pay interest on a loan and any closing costs.</li><li>Paying off your mortgage (or not having one in the first place) provides a significant emotional relief that shouldn\'t be discounted.</li><li>Investing your cash in the stock market, especially in a tax-advantaged account, will leave you with a higher net worth than paying off your mortgage faster.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-10\">Benefits of Cash</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-11\">Paying cash for a home eliminates the need to pay interest on the loan and any closing costs. \"There are no mortgage origination fees, appraisal fees, or other fees charged by lenders to assess buyers,\" says Robert Semrad, JD, senior partner and founder of DebtStoppers Bankruptcy Law Firm, headquartered in Chicago.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-13\">Paying with cash is usually more attractive to sellers, too. \"In a competitive market, a seller is likely to take a cash offer over other offers because they don\'t have to worry about a buyer backing out due to financing being denied,\" says Peter Grabel, managing director, MLO Luxury Mortgage Corp. in Stamford, Conn. A cash home purchase also has the flexibility of closing faster (if desired) than one involving loans, which could be attractive to a seller.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-15\">These benefits to the seller shouldn\'t come without a price. \"A cash buyer might be able to obtain the property for a lower price and receive a \'cash discount\' of sorts,\" says Grabel. A cash buyer could also purchase a home for cash and then still choose to do a cash-out refinance later after they have already closed on the home purchase. This allows them to get the best of both worlds: an easier home-buying process in a hot housing market with multiple competing offers and the long-term financial benefits of taking out a low-interest mortgage while investing their money.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A cash buyer\'s home is not leveraged, which allows a homeowner to sell the house more easily—even at a loss—regardless of market conditions.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-19\">Is a Mortgage Better?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-20\">On the other hand, obtaining financing also has significant benefits. \"Even if a buyer has the ability to pay cash for a home, it might make sense to not tie up a lot of cash to purchase real estate,\" says Grabel. Doing so could limit your options if other needs arise down the road. For example, if the home turns out to need major repairs or renovations, it may be tough to obtain a home equity loan or mortgage, as you don\'t know what your credit score will look like in the future, how much the home will then be worth, or other factors that determine approval for financing. While this is definitely something to keep in mind as a possibility, getting a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC) is easier the more equity you have in your home.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-22\">Selling a home bought with cash could also be a problem if the owners stretched a lot financially to buy it. \"If cash buyers decide it’s time to sell, they need to make sure they will have sufficient cash reserves to put down as a deposit on the new home,\" says Grabel.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-24\">In short, \"cash buyers need to be sure to leave themselves plenty of liquidity,\" says Grabel. By opting to go with a mortgage, you can give yourself more financial flexibility. Using a mortgage calculator is a good resource to budget some of the costs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-28\">Paying a mortgage can also provide tax benefits for homeowners who itemize deductions versus taking the standard deduction. And while you shouldn\'t opt for a mortgage just to get a deduction, a reduced tax obligation never hurts.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-30\">\"In most cases, mortgage interest payments are tax-deductible,\" says Semrad. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) passed in 2017, however, nearly doubled standard deductions, making it unnecessary for many taxpayers to itemize, meaning they forgo the use of the mortgage interest tax deduction entirely.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-32\">Investing vs. a mortgage</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-33\">Of course, with a mortgage, you end up paying more overall, since it comes with interest payments that do add up over time. But, depending on the state of the stock market, Semrad also notes that saving on mortgage interest by paying cash might not be financially prudent. You could be saving less than that money might have earned had you taken out a mortgage and invested the cash you didn\'t spend on your house.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The average annualized return of the S&amp;P 500. Interest rates have averaged 2.96% to 4.54% over the last decade on a 30-year mortgage. While individual stocks and years can vary wildly, an investment over 30 years in a low-fee index fund would leave you with a much higher net worth than you would pay in interest on a mortgage of the same amount.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-37\">In addition to the stock market earning much more than you\'ll pay in interest, you may also save even more on your taxes than you would save with a mortgage interest deduction. If you use your extra cash to invest in the stock market directly or to live on while investing in a tax-advantaged account like a traditional IRA, Health Savings Account (HSA), 401(k), or other workplace plan, you will potentially save more in taxes than you would have by itemizing your mortgage interest.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-39\">Special Considerations</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-40\">In some instances, having a mortgage can protect you from certain creditors. Most states grant consumers a certain level of protection from creditors regarding their home. Some states, such as Florida, completely exempt the house from the reach of certain creditors.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-40\">Other states set limits ranging from as little as $5,000 to up to $550,000. \"That means, regardless of the value of the house, creditors cannot force its sale to satisfy their claims,\" says Semrad. This is known as a homestead exemption, but keep in mind it does not prevent or stop a bank foreclosure if the homeowner defaults on their mortgage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-44\">Here\'s how it works: If your home is worth $500,000 and the home\'s mortgage is $400,000, your homestead exemption could prevent the forced sale of your home in order to pay creditors the $100,000 of equity in your home, as long as your state’s homestead exemption is at least $100,000. If your state\'s exemption is less than $100,000, a bankruptcy trustee could still force the sale of your home to pay creditors with the home\'s equity in excess of the exemption. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Not having a mortgage could negate a homestead exemption if you find yourself seriously in debt in the future.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-48\">Having a mortgage won\'t completely protect your money, however. \"If a homeowner left the funds in the bank and financed the house, a judgment creditor could lien the bank account and use the majority of the funds to satisfy its claims,\" says Semrad.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Can You Be Foreclosed on Without a Mortgage?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Paying off your mortgage doesn\'t mean your house can never be foreclosed on. You can still go into foreclosure through a tax lien. If you fail to pay your property, state, or federal taxes, you could lose your home through a tax lien.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Is It Easier To Buy a House With Cash?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Yes, buying a house is much easier with cash. You don\'t have to wait for an inspection, appraisal, or underwriting. Even though an inspection isn\'t required when you buy a home with cash, it is still a good idea to get one to make sure your new home won\'t come with any expensive surprise repairs. Home sellers will also usually favor cash buyers so they don\'t have to deal with lending timelines, which means your cash offer is more likely to be accepted.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">If You Have Bad Credit, Do You Have To Buy in Cash?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">No. Cash isn\'t your only option for buying a home if you have bad credit. You can still be approved for a mortgage through a Federal Housing Administration Loan with 10% down if your credit score is at least 500. You also may be able to improve your credit more quickly than you think to qualify for a conventional mortgage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-56\">The Bottom Line</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-57\">If you have a chunk of cash sitting around, mathematically you will end up with a higher net worth at the end of 30 years if you invest that money instead of using it to avoid getting a mortgage (assuming mortgage rates stay low and stock market gains follow the same average annualized return they have since 1929). However, not having a mortgage gives you a sense of freedom that is hard to replicate. If that feeling is worth enough money to you, then buy your house in cash.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/111214/buying-home-cash-vs-mortgage.asp\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Buying a House With Cash vs. Getting a Mortgage','','inherit','closed','closed','','3079-revision-v1','','','2023-03-29 04:48:42','2023-03-29 04:48:42','',3079,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3081',0,'revision','',0),(3082,1,'2023-03-29 04:56:28','2023-03-29 04:56:28','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Electronics insurance pays for damage to your devices when homeowners or renters insurance falls short.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3083,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Insurance-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3083\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">What would we do without our smartphones, tablets and laptops? It’s hard to imagine life without them, and when they go on the fritz, they can be pricey to repair or replace. This is where electronics insurance and extended warranties may be able to help.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Sometimes called “gadget insurance,” electronics insurance pays for damage to your mobile devices in situations where your homeowners insurance doesn’t, such as when your device simply stops working. But do you actually need this insurance?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Are your devices already covered?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You may have more coverage for your electronics than you think. Before you buy gadget insurance, check whether you have enough financial protection through your existing insurance policies or your credit card.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Homeowners and renters insurance</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you have homeowners or renters insurance, electronic devices are likely covered under the personal property section of your policy. This means your stuff will usually be covered if it’s stolen or destroyed in a fire, windstorm or other disaster listed in the policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Some limits apply:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>A home insurance policy typically won’t pay out if your electronic device stops working or it’s damaged in an accident.</li><li>Portable electronics — including smartphones, laptops and tablets — may be covered only up to a certain sublimit, such as $1,500. (You can usually buy additional coverage, however.)</li><li>Unless you have replacement cost coverage, if your electronics are damaged or stolen, your homeowners insurance will pay only their current value. Usually, that won’t be enough to replace them with new items.</li><li>Any payout from your insurer will be reduced by the amount of your deductible — the amount of a claim you’re responsible for. So if your $800 phone is stolen, but your homeowners deductible is $1,000, you won’t get anything from your insurance policy.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Extended warranties through your credit card</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you bought an electronic device with a credit card, check your card benefits. You may have extended warranty coverage for the device.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Some Visa, Mastercard and American Express cards will tack an additional year of coverage onto the original manufacturer’s warranty at no cost to you. Because this coverage mirrors the original warranty’s, your device will generally be covered for manufacturer defects but not theft, loss or accidents.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Other card issuers may offer coverage for your phone if you use the card to pay your wireless bill. For example, eligible Wells Fargo cardholders are covered if their phone is damaged or stolen.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Not sure whether your credit card includes extended warranty coverage? Call the number on the back of your card or log into your online account to view a full list of card benefits.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">How electronics insurance works</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Electronics insurance pays for things a manufacturer warranty or home insurance policy usually doesn’t cover, like accidental spills and drops. If your device is damaged or has a malfunction, you can file a claim to have it repaired or replaced. You may need to pay a deductible or service fee.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A quick note on terminology: When shopping for electronics insurance, you may see terms such as extended warranty, protection plan and service contract. There are differences in how these products are regulated, but from a consumer perspective, they’re quite similar. What the plan is called is less important than what it covers (and what it doesn’t).</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Electronics insurance is most commonly available for individual devices such as your phone or laptop. However, some companies offer plans that bundle multiple devices, such as TVs, gaming consoles and home theater systems.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You can pay for some plans on an ongoing, month-to-month basis. Others are good for a set period of time such as two or three years.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Full coverage doesn’t always take effect immediately. Some plans have a waiting period, such as 30 days, between when you buy the coverage and when you can make a claim. There may also be restrictions on how old your device is or how soon you need to buy your plan after purchasing the device.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">As always, it’s wise to read the terms and conditions carefully before committing to a service contract or insurance policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Do you need electronics insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Whether electronics insurance is a good buy depends on several factors. The biggest one is how likely you are to need repairs for your item.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">For example, if your phone has a sturdy, waterproof case and you tend to be careful with your stuff, phone insurance might be a waste of money. But if you’ve got little kids with overeager, clumsy fingers who love to play with your phone, buying insurance might be a prudent move.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Even if you do think you might need repairs at some point, the math doesn’t always work out.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Say you buy a two-year Upsie warranty for your new iPhone at a cost of $129, with a deductible of $49 per repair. During that two-year period, you file a single claim for a cracked screen.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The cost to fix a cracked iPhone screen can be anywhere from $70 to $330, according to HomeAdvisor, a home services website<sup>[1]</sup>. Meanwhile, the total cost of the Upsie warranty plus the deductible is $178. In this scenario, the warranty may or may not pay off, depending on the severity of the damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Below are a few questions to think about when choosing a plan:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Do you feel comfortable with the coverage you already have through your home insurance or credit card?</li><li>What types of damage would the electronics insurance pay for that your existing coverage wouldn’t?</li><li>How much will the plan cost you, including potential deductibles or service fees?</li><li>Would having to repair or replace your device on the spur of the moment be a financial hardship?</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Where to buy electronics insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You can often buy phone insurance through your wireless provider, while manufacturers like Apple and big-box stores like Best Buy sell extended warranties. But you may also want to check out third-party providers such as the ones below.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Akko</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Akko has two plans: one for your phone only, and the other for your phone plus up to 25 other items such as laptops, tablets, cameras, video game consoles and even power tools.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The plan includes coverage for:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Cracked screens.</li><li>Spills and submersion.</li><li>Theft.</li><li>Accidental damage.</li><li>Component failures for phones, other portable electronic devices and TVs.</li><li>Lost phone (only covered for customers who pay annually).</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Students may be eligible for discounted rates.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Allstate Protection Plans</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Through a subsidiary called SquareTrade, Allstate sells plans for individual devices such as phones, laptops, tablets, TVs, cameras and fitness trackers. You can also buy a family plan to cover up to four phones.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A standard plan covers mechanical and electrical failures plus accidents like drops and spills. An upgraded plan adds identity theft recovery services, tech support and one instance of Allstate roadside assistance per year. Neither plan pays for loss or theft.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Phone plans are paid on a monthly basis. For most other devices, you choose a set amount of time for your warranty to be valid, such as two or three years.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Asurion</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Asurion has one protection plan for your phone and another that will cover just about every electronic device you own except your phone. That includes computers, TVs, tablets, smart speakers, routers and more.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Phone plans cover the following:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Cracked screens.</li><li>Defects and failures.</li><li>Water damage.</li><li>Battery replacement.</li><li>Theft or loss.</li><li>Accessory damage.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Home+, the plan for other devices, covers breakdowns due to:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Defects.</li><li>Normal wear and tear.</li><li>Power surges.</li><li>Dust, heat or humidity.</li><li>Drops and spills for certain portable devices such as laptops and wearables.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Unlike the phone plan, Home+ does not include coverage for theft or loss.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Asurion plans are paid on a monthly basis. You can buy the Home+ plan and some phone plans on the company’s website. However, other phone plans may be available only through your wireless carrier.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Upsie</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Upsie offers individual extended warranties for a wide variety of items, including phones, laptops, tablets and smart-home technology. Warranties are sold for a fixed period of time, such as two or three years.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Upsie warranties don’t cover loss or theft, but they do pay for things like liquid damage, cracked screens and battery failure, depending on the device.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Deductibles vary by item but range from $0 to $150.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/insurance/gadget-electronics-insurance\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Electronics Insurance: What You Should Know Before You Buy','','publish','closed','closed','','electronics-insurance-what-you-should-know-before-you-buy','','','2023-03-29 04:56:28','2023-03-29 04:56:28','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3082',0,'post','',0),(3083,1,'2023-03-29 04:49:35','2023-03-29 04:49:35','','Insurance-2','','inherit','closed','closed','','insurance-2-11','','','2023-03-29 04:49:35','2023-03-29 04:49:35','',3082,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Insurance-2.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(3084,1,'2023-03-29 04:56:28','2023-03-29 04:56:28','<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Electronics insurance pays for damage to your devices when homeowners or renters insurance falls short.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":3083,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Insurance-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3083\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">What would we do without our smartphones, tablets and laptops? It’s hard to imagine life without them, and when they go on the fritz, they can be pricey to repair or replace. This is where electronics insurance and extended warranties may be able to help.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Sometimes called “gadget insurance,” electronics insurance pays for damage to your mobile devices in situations where your homeowners insurance doesn’t, such as when your device simply stops working. But do you actually need this insurance?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Are your devices already covered?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You may have more coverage for your electronics than you think. Before you buy gadget insurance, check whether you have enough financial protection through your existing insurance policies or your credit card.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Homeowners and renters insurance</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you have homeowners or renters insurance, electronic devices are likely covered under the personal property section of your policy. This means your stuff will usually be covered if it’s stolen or destroyed in a fire, windstorm or other disaster listed in the policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Some limits apply:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>A home insurance policy typically won’t pay out if your electronic device stops working or it’s damaged in an accident.</li><li>Portable electronics — including smartphones, laptops and tablets — may be covered only up to a certain sublimit, such as $1,500. (You can usually buy additional coverage, however.)</li><li>Unless you have replacement cost coverage, if your electronics are damaged or stolen, your homeowners insurance will pay only their current value. Usually, that won’t be enough to replace them with new items.</li><li>Any payout from your insurer will be reduced by the amount of your deductible — the amount of a claim you’re responsible for. So if your $800 phone is stolen, but your homeowners deductible is $1,000, you won’t get anything from your insurance policy.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Extended warranties through your credit card</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">If you bought an electronic device with a credit card, check your card benefits. You may have extended warranty coverage for the device.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Some Visa, Mastercard and American Express cards will tack an additional year of coverage onto the original manufacturer’s warranty at no cost to you. Because this coverage mirrors the original warranty’s, your device will generally be covered for manufacturer defects but not theft, loss or accidents.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Other card issuers may offer coverage for your phone if you use the card to pay your wireless bill. For example, eligible Wells Fargo cardholders are covered if their phone is damaged or stolen.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Not sure whether your credit card includes extended warranty coverage? Call the number on the back of your card or log into your online account to view a full list of card benefits.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">How electronics insurance works</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Electronics insurance pays for things a manufacturer warranty or home insurance policy usually doesn’t cover, like accidental spills and drops. If your device is damaged or has a malfunction, you can file a claim to have it repaired or replaced. You may need to pay a deductible or service fee.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A quick note on terminology: When shopping for electronics insurance, you may see terms such as extended warranty, protection plan and service contract. There are differences in how these products are regulated, but from a consumer perspective, they’re quite similar. What the plan is called is less important than what it covers (and what it doesn’t).</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Electronics insurance is most commonly available for individual devices such as your phone or laptop. However, some companies offer plans that bundle multiple devices, such as TVs, gaming consoles and home theater systems.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You can pay for some plans on an ongoing, month-to-month basis. Others are good for a set period of time such as two or three years.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Full coverage doesn’t always take effect immediately. Some plans have a waiting period, such as 30 days, between when you buy the coverage and when you can make a claim. There may also be restrictions on how old your device is or how soon you need to buy your plan after purchasing the device.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">As always, it’s wise to read the terms and conditions carefully before committing to a service contract or insurance policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Do you need electronics insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Whether electronics insurance is a good buy depends on several factors. The biggest one is how likely you are to need repairs for your item.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">For example, if your phone has a sturdy, waterproof case and you tend to be careful with your stuff, phone insurance might be a waste of money. But if you’ve got little kids with overeager, clumsy fingers who love to play with your phone, buying insurance might be a prudent move.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Even if you do think you might need repairs at some point, the math doesn’t always work out.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Say you buy a two-year Upsie warranty for your new iPhone at a cost of $129, with a deductible of $49 per repair. During that two-year period, you file a single claim for a cracked screen.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The cost to fix a cracked iPhone screen can be anywhere from $70 to $330, according to HomeAdvisor, a home services website<sup>[1]</sup>. Meanwhile, the total cost of the Upsie warranty plus the deductible is $178. In this scenario, the warranty may or may not pay off, depending on the severity of the damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Below are a few questions to think about when choosing a plan:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Do you feel comfortable with the coverage you already have through your home insurance or credit card?</li><li>What types of damage would the electronics insurance pay for that your existing coverage wouldn’t?</li><li>How much will the plan cost you, including potential deductibles or service fees?</li><li>Would having to repair or replace your device on the spur of the moment be a financial hardship?</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Where to buy electronics insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">You can often buy phone insurance through your wireless provider, while manufacturers like Apple and big-box stores like Best Buy sell extended warranties. But you may also want to check out third-party providers such as the ones below.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Akko</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Akko has two plans: one for your phone only, and the other for your phone plus up to 25 other items such as laptops, tablets, cameras, video game consoles and even power tools.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">The plan includes coverage for:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Cracked screens.</li><li>Spills and submersion.</li><li>Theft.</li><li>Accidental damage.</li><li>Component failures for phones, other portable electronic devices and TVs.</li><li>Lost phone (only covered for customers who pay annually).</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Students may be eligible for discounted rates.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Allstate Protection Plans</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Through a subsidiary called SquareTrade, Allstate sells plans for individual devices such as phones, laptops, tablets, TVs, cameras and fitness trackers. You can also buy a family plan to cover up to four phones.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">A standard plan covers mechanical and electrical failures plus accidents like drops and spills. An upgraded plan adds identity theft recovery services, tech support and one instance of Allstate roadside assistance per year. Neither plan pays for loss or theft.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Phone plans are paid on a monthly basis. For most other devices, you choose a set amount of time for your warranty to be valid, such as two or three years.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Asurion</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Asurion has one protection plan for your phone and another that will cover just about every electronic device you own except your phone. That includes computers, TVs, tablets, smart speakers, routers and more.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Phone plans cover the following:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Cracked screens.</li><li>Defects and failures.</li><li>Water damage.</li><li>Battery replacement.</li><li>Theft or loss.</li><li>Accessory damage.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Home+, the plan for other devices, covers breakdowns due to:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><li>Defects.</li><li>Normal wear and tear.</li><li>Power surges.</li><li>Dust, heat or humidity.</li><li>Drops and spills for certain portable devices such as laptops and wearables.</li></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Unlike the phone plan, Home+ does not include coverage for theft or loss.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Asurion plans are paid on a monthly basis. You can buy the Home+ plan and some phone plans on the company’s website. However, other phone plans may be available only through your wireless carrier.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3,\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"extra-large\"} -->\n<h3 class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-extra-large-font-size\">Upsie</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Upsie offers individual extended warranties for a wide variety of items, including phones, laptops, tablets and smart-home technology. Warranties are sold for a fixed period of time, such as two or three years.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Upsie warranties don’t cover loss or theft, but they do pay for things like liquid damage, cracked screens and battery failure, depending on the device.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"textColor\":\"black\",\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Deductibles vary by item but range from $0 to $150.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/insurance/gadget-electronics-insurance\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Electronics Insurance: What You Should Know Before You Buy','','inherit','closed','closed','','3082-revision-v1','','','2023-03-29 04:56:28','2023-03-29 04:56:28','',3082,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=3084',0,'revision','',0),