(4216,1,'2024-07-01 02:13:25','2024-07-01 02:13:25','<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":4217,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Untitled-44-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4217\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">What Is Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\">Water damage legal liability insurance refers to a type of policy that provides financial protection to a person or business that unintentionally causes water damage to another property.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\">For individuals, water damage legal liability insurance and the cost of it are typically included in renter, homeowners, and condo insurance policies.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\">KEY TAKEAWAYS</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Water damage legal liability insurance protects individuals or businesses if they cause unintentional water damage to someone else\'s property or possessions.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Many homeowners and renters insurance policies include legal liability coverage for water damage.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>To be covered, the water damage usually has to be caused by a sudden event or accident.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\">How Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance Works</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\">Water damage legal liability insurance is a kind of liability insurance. Liability insurance is a type of coverage that protects an individual or business from the risk of being sued or held legally responsible—that is, liable—for something.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\">Liability insurance policies can cover both legal costs and any payouts for destruction, damage, or injury, however inadvertent, for which the insured is deemed responsible. There are various situations when water damage legal liability insurance could help protect an individual from enormous costs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\">For example, let\'s say the owners of a second-floor condo unit experienced a water heater explosion and the water leaked into the first floor. Water damage legal liability insurance would protect the owners of the second-floor condo by providing the money to repair the damage to the first-floor units. Without the insurance, the second-floor owners could be held responsible for paying for the repairs out of pocket.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\">Homeowners Policies and Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\">Homeowners insurance policies generally include water damage legal liability, either as part of the personal liability coverage or in a separate rider. If you have a mortgage loan, your mortgage lender will likely require you to buy homeowners insurance, but not mandate a separate policy for water damage liability.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\">Generally, the water damage must result from a sudden event or accident—something unforeseen and inadvertent, like a leaking air conditioner, burst pipe, malfunctioning washing machine, or the aforementioned water heater rupture. The liability extends to damage, destruction, or injury to others\' structures, belongings, or even persons.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\">However, if the triggering event and ensuing water damage are caused by poor maintenance, misconduct, or deliberate carelessness, the liability coverage might not apply, or your insurance company might reject the claim.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Warning: Be aware of policies that limit your coverage for water damage and liability. Some homeowners insurance policies have sublimits within the contract that impose a cap on claim payouts associated with water damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\">How to Increase or Improve Coverage</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\">Not all policies include legal liability insurance for water damage legal liability insurance, so it is important to read the insurance contract carefully.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_27-0\">Increase Coverage on Your Existing Policy</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\">A more common issue is not the existence of the coverage but the extent of it. Most standard homeowners policies provide a basic limit of liability of $300,000 for property damages or injuries. This coverage amount can be increased for an additional premium, but often only to a specified limit.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\">Umbrella Policy</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\">If you want broader liability coverage than that provided by your homeowners insurance, you could purchase what is commonly called an umbrella insurance policy. Personal liability insurance makes payments on the policyholder\'s behalf in cases of at-home and auto accidents, as well as situations that involve libel, slander, vandalism, or invasion of privacy. The policy also covers injuries that occur at secondary residences or seasonal homes, within recreational vehicles, on the premises of rental properties, or on a boat or watercraft owned by the policyholder.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Does Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance Work?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Typically, water damage legal liability insurance protects you if water damage results from a sudden event or accident like a burst pipe or a broken washing machine. The liability protects you financially from damage caused to other people and their property.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Do I Increase My Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The standard homeowners insurance policies usually provide a basic limit of liability protection for water damage. You can increase the coverage, but it will also increase your monthly premium. You can also buy an umbrella policy, which provides broad coverage of personal liability, including slander, libel, accidents, and water damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Claims Are Not Covered by Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If the event causing the water damage resulted from poor maintenance, malfeasance, or deliberate carelessness, the water damage liability coverage might not apply, meaning the insurer would deny the claim.1</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\">The Bottom Line</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\">Water damage legal liability insurance provides an owner financial protection from accidents and unforeseen events that cause water damage to other people or their property. Typically, the standard homeowners insurance policy includes water damage legal liability insurance, but you can increase the coverage as needed.</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/terms/w/water-damage-legal-liability-insurance.asp\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance: What It Is, How It Works','','publish','closed','closed','','water-damage-legal-liability-insurance-what-it-is-how-it-works','','','2024-07-01 02:13:26','2024-07-01 02:13:26','',0,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4216',0,'post','',0),(4217,1,'2024-07-01 02:11:59','2024-07-01 02:11:59','','Untitled-44','','inherit','closed','closed','','untitled-44-3','','','2024-07-01 02:11:59','2024-07-01 02:11:59','',4216,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Untitled-44.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),(4218,1,'2024-07-01 02:13:25','2024-07-01 02:13:25','<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":4217,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Untitled-44-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4217\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">What Is Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\">Water damage legal liability insurance refers to a type of policy that provides financial protection to a person or business that unintentionally causes water damage to another property.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\">For individuals, water damage legal liability insurance and the cost of it are typically included in renter, homeowners, and condo insurance policies.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\">KEY TAKEAWAYS</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Water damage legal liability insurance protects individuals or businesses if they cause unintentional water damage to someone else\'s property or possessions.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Many homeowners and renters insurance policies include legal liability coverage for water damage.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>To be covered, the water damage usually has to be caused by a sudden event or accident.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\">How Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance Works</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\">Water damage legal liability insurance is a kind of liability insurance. Liability insurance is a type of coverage that protects an individual or business from the risk of being sued or held legally responsible—that is, liable—for something.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\">Liability insurance policies can cover both legal costs and any payouts for destruction, damage, or injury, however inadvertent, for which the insured is deemed responsible. There are various situations when water damage legal liability insurance could help protect an individual from enormous costs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\">For example, let\'s say the owners of a second-floor condo unit experienced a water heater explosion and the water leaked into the first floor. Water damage legal liability insurance would protect the owners of the second-floor condo by providing the money to repair the damage to the first-floor units. Without the insurance, the second-floor owners could be held responsible for paying for the repairs out of pocket.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\">Homeowners Policies and Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\">Homeowners insurance policies generally include water damage legal liability, either as part of the personal liability coverage or in a separate rider. If you have a mortgage loan, your mortgage lender will likely require you to buy homeowners insurance, but not mandate a separate policy for water damage liability.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\">Generally, the water damage must result from a sudden event or accident—something unforeseen and inadvertent, like a leaking air conditioner, burst pipe, malfunctioning washing machine, or the aforementioned water heater rupture. The liability extends to damage, destruction, or injury to others\' structures, belongings, or even persons.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\">However, if the triggering event and ensuing water damage are caused by poor maintenance, misconduct, or deliberate carelessness, the liability coverage might not apply, or your insurance company might reject the claim.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Warning: Be aware of policies that limit your coverage for water damage and liability. Some homeowners insurance policies have sublimits within the contract that impose a cap on claim payouts associated with water damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\">How to Increase or Improve Coverage</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\">Not all policies include legal liability insurance for water damage legal liability insurance, so it is important to read the insurance contract carefully.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_27-0\">Increase Coverage on Your Existing Policy</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\">A more common issue is not the existence of the coverage but the extent of it. Most standard homeowners policies provide a basic limit of liability of $300,000 for property damages or injuries. This coverage amount can be increased for an additional premium, but often only to a specified limit.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\">Umbrella Policy</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\">If you want broader liability coverage than that provided by your homeowners insurance, you could purchase what is commonly called an umbrella insurance policy. Personal liability insurance makes payments on the policyholder\'s behalf in cases of at-home and auto accidents, as well as situations that involve libel, slander, vandalism, or invasion of privacy. The policy also covers injuries that occur at secondary residences or seasonal homes, within recreational vehicles, on the premises of rental properties, or on a boat or watercraft owned by the policyholder.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Does Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance Work?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Typically, water damage legal liability insurance protects you if water damage results from a sudden event or accident like a burst pipe or a broken washing machine. The liability protects you financially from damage caused to other people and their property.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Do I Increase My Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The standard homeowners insurance policies usually provide a basic limit of liability protection for water damage. You can increase the coverage, but it will also increase your monthly premium. You can also buy an umbrella policy, which provides broad coverage of personal liability, including slander, libel, accidents, and water damage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Claims Are Not Covered by Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If the event causing the water damage resulted from poor maintenance, malfeasance, or deliberate carelessness, the water damage liability coverage might not apply, meaning the insurer would deny the claim.1</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\">The Bottom Line</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\">Water damage legal liability insurance provides an owner financial protection from accidents and unforeseen events that cause water damage to other people or their property. Typically, the standard homeowners insurance policy includes water damage legal liability insurance, but you can increase the coverage as needed.</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/terms/w/water-damage-legal-liability-insurance.asp\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Water Damage Legal Liability Insurance: What It Is, How It Works','','inherit','closed','closed','','4216-revision-v1','','','2024-07-01 02:13:25','2024-07-01 02:13:25','',4216,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4218',0,'revision','',0),(4219,1,'2024-07-01 02:35:01','2024-07-01 02:35:01','<!-- wp:gallery {\"linkTo\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped\"><!-- wp:image {\"id\":4220,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Untitled-42-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4220\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image --></figure>\n<!-- /wp:gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\">Homeowners insurance provides a wide range of protections. It can help repair or replace your home if it’s damaged in a fire or windstorm and cover medical expenses if someone sustains an injury on your property. Standard home insurance policies also protect your personal belongings, including losses that occur due to theft.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\">Your homeowners policy protects your belongings when they’re in your home and may also provide limited protection when you place items in storage or take them on vacation. But insurance companies place limits on the amount of money they will pay for certain types of personal property.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-4\">Before buying a home insurance policy, it’s important to understand which types of theft it will and will not cover.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\">Key Takeaways</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>The personal property coverage of a homeowners policy covers theft of most items stolen from your house.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Personal property coverage may also provide limited protection for belongings when they aren’t located on the covered property.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Insurers set coverage limits on certain types of stolen personal belongings.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>You can add an endorsement or rider to your standard home insurance policy to increase protection for valuable items such as artwork, jewelry, or musical instruments.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-7\">Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Theft?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-8\">Most home insurance policies cover theft of personal property such as clothing, computers, electronic equipment, and furniture. Personal property coverage also extends to items in detached structures on your property, such as a shed. Typically, homeowners insurance also provides coverage, with limitations, for personal items stolen from offsite storage units, hotels, or your car.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-10\">Insurance companies set your personal property limit based on a percentage of your dwelling coverage, typically starting at 50%. For example, if a policy has $200,000 in dwelling coverage, it might include $100,000 in personal property coverage. But you can sometimes change the personal property limit to fit your needs. Before buying a homeowners policy, take a comprehensive inventory of your personal belongings and determine how much they will cost to replace. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Note: If thieves damage your home during a break-in, your policy’s dwelling coverage can help pay to replace broken doors or windows. Dwelling coverage also covers vandalism. So, if a burglar breaks into your home, steals cash and jewelry, and vandalizes your walls with spray paint, you can file a claim against your personal property coverage for stolen items and your dwelling coverage for damages to your house.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-13\">What Are the Limits of Theft Coverage?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-14\">Your policy will include a certain level of coverage for personal property, often 50% of your dwelling coverage. But insurers set limits on what they will pay for some types of belongings.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-16\">Limits for Certain Types of Personal Property</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-17\">Your homeowners policy doesn’t offer a blanket amount of coverage for all your personal property. Instead, it sets limits based on what is stolen or damaged. Here’s an example of limits from a Nevada homeowners policy from The Hartford:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-19\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Banknotes and coins - $200</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Residential property primarily used for business- $2,500 ($500 for business property stolen away from the insured premises)</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Firearms - $2,500</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Furs, jewelry, and watches - $1,500</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Goldware and silverware - $2,500</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Passports, personal records, stamps, securities, and tickets - $1,500</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Trailers - $1,500</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Watercraft, including their engines and trailers - $1,500</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-21\">Although many home insurance policies cover items stolen from off-premises locations such as a storage unit or hotel room, providers may limit the amount they will pay to 10% of your total personal property coverage. So, if a thief steals $20,000 worth of stored furniture and your policy includes $50,000 in personal property coverage, the insurance company will likely only pay $5,000 for the loss.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Note: The HO-3 or “Special Form” homeowners policy is the most popular form of coverage. It covers damages caused by all types of perils–like fire, theft, vandalism, and windstorms–unless specifically excluded in the policy terms.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-24\">Actual Cash Value vs. Replacement-Cost Coverage</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-25\">Most standard home insurance policies pay actual cash value for stolen personal property. An item’s actual cash value is its market value for its age and condition, which decreases due to depreciation. So if you bought an area rug for $1,200 five years ago, it may only have an actual cash value of a few hundred dollars today.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-27\">Replacement-cost coverage, on the other hand, provides you a payout that will cover the cost of replacing the lost item with a new one.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-29\">When Is Theft Not Covered by Homeowners Insurance?&nbsp;</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-30\">Typically, providers won’t cover stolen personal property in a home left vacant for a certain specified period. For instance, if you leave your home vacant to go on a year-long trip around the world and thieves make off with all your possessions, the insurance company may deny your claim or cancel your policy.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-32\">Exclusions</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-33\">Most standard home insurance policies won’t pay for losses of certain types of property, including:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-35\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Aircraft (may cover hobby aircraft not designed to carry cargo or people) and hovercraft</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Most automobiles, including their accessories and equipment</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Business data, including paper records</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Credit cards</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Property covered by another insurance policy</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Property of renters who aren’t related to the insured</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Pets</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Rental equipment stored off premises</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-37\">Insuring Excluded Property</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\">Just because a possession is excluded from your home insurance coverage doesn’t mean you can’t protect it. Insurers offer policies for a wide range of property.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-40\">For many people, homes and automobiles are their most valuable possessions. If thieves steal personal possessions from your house and car, your home insurance policy might cover all losses. But if they steal permanently installed equipment from your vehicle, like a stereo system, or the automobile itself, you’ll likely need to rely on your auto insurance policy’s comprehensive coverage to pay those losses. </p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-42\">Many insurers that operate nationwide offer insurance policies to meet most people’s needs. If you purchase auto and home insurance from the same carrier, they may also offer coverage for your:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-44\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Boat</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Business</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Motorcycle</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Motorhome</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Off-road vehicle</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Pet </li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-46\">Alternative Ways To Protect Against Theft Loss&nbsp;</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-47\">Limits on certain types of personal items may leave some of your belongings underinsured. For example, if you have a wedding ring valued at $5,000, and your home insurance only provides up to $1,500 in protection, you’ll need additional coverage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-49\">Valuable Items Endorsements</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-50\">Many carriers offer valuable items coverage, sometimes called “scheduled personal property coverage,” which you can add as a rider to your homeowners policy. You can buy valuable items coverage for numerous valuables, including:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-52\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Antiques and artwork</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Cameras</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Coin and stamp collections</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Firearms</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Musical instruments </li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-54\">Other Types of Protection&nbsp;</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-55\">Manufacturers of expensive products such as computers and high-end cellphones often offer extended warranty packages. These types of packages often go beyond damage protection, also offering loss and theft protection.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-57\">Your credit card may also offer a certain amount of purchase protection for goods you buy using the card. However, credit card insurance often offers secondary protection, which only pays after you’ve reached your primary insurer’s limit. For instance, if you used your credit card to buy a $2,000 watch and your insurance pays $1,500 after the watch is stolen, your credit card’s protection may pay the difference.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-59\">Anti-Theft Measures</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-60\">You can take many steps to prevent thieves from stealing personal property from your home.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-62\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Install motion sensor lights along the front, sides, and rear of your house.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Install a burglar alarm system that alerts a central station when triggered.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Install window locks and deadbolt locks on doors.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Trim bushes and trees around windows to eliminate hiding places.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Avoid leaving valuables such as lawnmowers unguarded in your yard, even for a few minutes.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Avoid placing valuables such as expensive artwork and entertainment systems in locations that people can see them through uncovered windows.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Consider getting a dog to deter intruders.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-64\">It’s also good to understand the way thieves operate. Burglars often target bedrooms, looking for items such as cash and jewelry. They also steal electronic and gaming systems from family rooms, and computers and checkbooks from home offices. Within your home, hide valuables in places that thieves may not think to look. Lock valuables in desk drawers or install a safe to protect your most prized possessions.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-66\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much does homeowners insurance cover for theft?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Insurance companies set your property damage limit based on a percentage of your dwelling coverage, usually around 50%.<sup>1</sup>&nbsp;So, if your policy features $500,000 in dwelling coverage, it will provide $250,000 in personal property protection. But some insurers will allow you to adjust your personal property limit to fit your needs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much Is homeowners insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In 2021, U.S. homeowners will pay an average annual home insurance premium of $2,285. But homeowners rates are based on personal aspects such as your home’s age, location, construction type, location, your home’s claims history, and the deductible you choose. For accurate rates, contact a few insurance companies and request a quote.<sup>3</sup></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Which areas are not protected by most homeowners insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Home insurance policies may not cover theft of aircraft, automobiles, business data, or pets. To find out what your coverage includes and excludes, review the personal property (Coverage C) section of your 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.thebalancemoney.com/does-homeowners-insurance-cover-theft-5192636\">click here.</a></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Theft?','','publish','closed','closed','','does-homeowners-insurance-cover-theft-2','','','2024-07-01 02:35:03','2024-07-01 02:35:03','',0,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4219',0,'post','',0),(4220,1,'2024-07-01 02:25:24','2024-07-01 02:25:24','','Untitled-42','','inherit','closed','closed','','untitled-42-2','','','2024-07-01 02:25:24','2024-07-01 02:25:24','',4219,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Untitled-42.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0);

INSERT INTO `smart_posts` VALUES (4360,1,'2025-09-22 21:51:29','2025-09-22 21:51:29','<!-- wp:image {\"width\":\"447px\",\"height\":\"auto\",\"sizeSlug\":\"large\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/thmb/z1W9PP3FTi5GXlk1q3HpR8MsDSc=/750x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/GettyImages-661774679-57cd88e73df78c71b62eeb25.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"width:447px;height:auto\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you own a credit card, you have probably been asked by the company if you would like to add credit insurance. Credit insurance may be beneficial in some cases or an unneeded cost in others, depending on your situation and how much insurance coverage you already have. This is the basic information to consider when trying to decide if buying credit insurance is worth it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\">What Is Credit Insurance or Payment Protection Insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\">Credit insurance—sometimes referred to as payment protection insurance—is an insurance policy attached to a specific loan or credit card account. The protection will pay the outstanding balance or the payments for you if you are unable to do so.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\">Knowing what credit insurance is can help you make an informed decision. Here are 5 Steps to help you understand the coverage offered by your credit card company and what it covers so you can decide if you should add credit insurance to your card or not.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\">1. Become Knowledgeable About What Credit Insurance Is</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\">When your credit card company calls to offer you credit insurance, or balance protection insurance linked to your credit card, they may be working with an insurance company to offer a special package to their cardholders that will protect several different things.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\">Four Main Types of Credit Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/credit-life-insurance-for-debt-after-death-4155739\">Credit life insurance</a> </strong>pays off the debt you owe if you die. The <a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/beneficiary-definition-life-insurance-policy-basics-2645742\">beneficiary</a> of the policy is the credit card company. If you have <a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/who-needs-life-insurance-2645793\">life insurance</a> that is enough to pay off your debts if you die, consider this before spending more money on this extra coverage.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Credit disability insurance</strong> protects your credit rating by making your monthly minimum payment if you become medically disabled. Usually,​ there is a limited period that payments are made for, and any purchases after the disability can be excluded.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Involuntary unemployment credit insurance</strong> will pay your <a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/credit-card-minimum-payment-calculation-960238\">minimum monthly payment</a> if you are laid-off or downsized, and again, purchases after the involuntary unemployment would not be covered.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Credit property insurance</strong> is used to ensure the property that you may have used to secure a loan. This would not usually be part of credit card insurance but may be more common with personal loans where your personal property is used as security on the loan. It is important to understand the term, and also to realize that if you have <a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/how-to-choose-best-home-insurance-coverage-4016846\">home insurance</a> or <a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/understanding-what-home-contents-insurance-covers-4135735\">personal contents insurance</a>, then that property would likely already be insured there.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\">2. Understand How Credit Insurance Is Marketed</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\">Now that you know a little more about credit insurance it is important to understand how it is marketed or sold to consumers. Usually, companies will ask you to purchase it when you sign-up for the credit or sign up in a later telemarketing solicitation. When credit insurance is purchased it is offered free for a specific time, after this specific time you will start being billed because accepting the trial means automatic enrollment in the program (until you cancel).</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\">Unlike a lot of insurance plans, credit insurance can start by a verbal \"yes\" and does not necessarily require a signature so make sure you pay attention to what you are agreeing to or filling out on your&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/credit-card-application-mistakes-960215\">credit application</a>.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\">3. Decide If Credit Insurance Is for You</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\">Considering your current and future financial needs is the first step in determining if you might benefit from credit insurance. If you already have substantial life and disability insurance policies, you may have enough insurance coverage in those policies to cover your credit accounts due to your death or disability. Learn more about figuring out how much insurance coverage you need here.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\">Credit insurance may not be as cost-effective and or flexible as traditional life and disability policies. For example, if you have&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/how-many-credit-cards-is-too-many-961071\">a lot of credit cards</a>&nbsp;you would have to take out a policy on each of those accounts. With all those monthly policies, you may be able to purchase a traditional life and/or disability policy for less and get more coverage, not to mention after your credit balance is paid with a traditional policy your dependants would receive the remaining amount.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\">4. Questions to Ask Before Buying Credit Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\">If you decide that credit insurance is for&nbsp;you, it&nbsp;is important to know about the policy&nbsp;you&nbsp;are getting.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_27-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Ask about what is excluded in the policy.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>If you purchase a credit insurance policy that encompasses all 4 types of credit insurance (life, disability, unemployment, and property), make sure you are not paying for something you don’t need. For example, if you are not employed at the time of getting the unemployment insurance you are paying for coverage that you will not use.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Beware of age restrictions, for example with credit life insurance.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Ask about waiting periods and pre-existing situations.</strong> For example, if you think you might be laid off in 6 weeks and this is why you take the insurance, beware that the policy may have a waiting period (sometimes excluding incidents that started <em>for up to 6 months before the policy and after)</em>. Time limits and waiting periods may cause a claim to be denied.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\">Make sure you research all the requirements carefully before accepting the policy. If the person you are speaking to can not answer your questions, then ask to have someone call you back who can. Never buy a policy that you do not understand.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\">5. Find Out If You Can Easily Cancel Credit Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\">Most credit insurance starts on a free trial basis. Before the free trial is over, you should decide if you want to keep the policy or not. Unfortunately, after the free trial&nbsp;period,&nbsp;it may be more difficult to cancel a credit insurance policy. Contact the credit card company if you are not sure how to cancel and get the appropriate instructions.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\">Alternatives to Credit Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\">Credit insurance is not mandatory, you should not feel forced to buy it. Credit insurance covers are limited because it only helps you with the one credit card. If you are really worried about covering credit card costs due to disability, death, or job loss, it may be a smarter financial move to consider other options that will let you control where the money gets spent if you need help. Credit insurance is limited to paying off a limited amount of debt with the creditor in question. Consider learning more about <a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/term-life-insurance-what-is-it-5094214\">term life insurance</a>, or disability which would give you more control of your finances.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article, <a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/considering-credit-card-insurance-2645595\">click here</a>.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','5 Step Guide to Considering Credit Insurance by a Credit Card Company','','inherit','closed','closed','','4356-revision-v1','','','2025-09-22 21:51:29','2025-09-22 21:51:29','',4356,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4360',0,'revision','',0),(4361,1,'2025-09-22 21:51:45','2025-09-22 21:51:45','<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>YouTube can be an effective video platform for small business marketing. Here\'s how to use it to its full potential.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"width\":\"650px\",\"height\":\"auto\",\"sizeSlug\":\"large\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https://i.imgur.com/4y88mVU.png\" style=\"width:650px;height:auto\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Since its launch in 2005, YouTube has become a modern media powerhouse. Currently, YouTube has more than 2.6 billion users worldwide and 122 million daily visitors. More than 500 hours of video are uploaded to the site every minute, with more than 41,000 channels that exceed 1 million subscribers. The platform was purchased by Google in 2016 and currently ranks&nbsp;No. 2 for global and domestic web traffic.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Marketing is moving toward video over static content and YouTube is a key player. For an individual user, the site appears straightforward, but it’s more complicated if you want to use it to market and grow your business. Here’s what you should know to use YouTube for business.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to set up a YouTube channel</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>These guides break down the process of setting up a YouTube channel for your small business. Each section examines an essential element of creating and optimizing your YouTube channel:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Signing up for a business YouTube account</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Customizing your YouTube profile</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Interacting with others on YouTube</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Verifying your YouTube channel</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>YouTube Live</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Trending videos on YouTube</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>YouTubers and influencers</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Advertising on YouTube</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Video action campaigns</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>YouTube Partner Program</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signing up for a business YouTube account</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>While most social media platforms require users to set up an account before viewing content, users can view YouTube content without an account. (Membership is also required to view videos flagged as adult content.)&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>However, when using YouTube as a&nbsp;business social media&nbsp;platform, you must have an account to upload videos and&nbsp;engage with your customers. Follow these steps to create your business YouTube account.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Sign in to your company’s Google account:</strong>&nbsp;If you use&nbsp;Gmail&nbsp;for your business email, you’ll use the same username and password for your YouTube account. Alternatively, you can create a new Google account solely for YouTube business purposes.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Go to YouTube’s homepage:</strong>&nbsp;Once signed in, visit YouTube’s homepage. Double-check that you’re signed in to the appropriate business account instead of your personal YouTube account.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Click on your Google account’s avatar:</strong>&nbsp;You’ll find your avatar in the top-right corner. It’s a small circle containing your picture (or your&nbsp;company’s logo&nbsp;if you’ve set that as your email address’s picture).</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Start creating your channel:</strong>&nbsp;Select&nbsp;<strong>Your Channel</strong>&nbsp;from the drop-down menu displayed after selecting your avatar. It’s the first option in the first batch of icons.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Enter a company name:</strong>&nbsp;Choose&nbsp;<strong>Use a business or other name</strong>&nbsp;and enter your company’s name.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Finish account creation:</strong>&nbsp;Select&nbsp;<strong>Create</strong>. Your business YouTube account is ready for action.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>After taking these steps, return to YouTube’s homepage. Familiarize yourself with the available options:&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Top-left corner:</strong>&nbsp;In the top-left corner, there’s a drop-down menu with several options, including links for the homepage, YouTube Shorts, your library and your subscriptions. Your library lets you organize which videos you’ve watched, liked and saved for later. Under your subscriptions, you can see all the channels you’re subscribed to and receive notifications when they’ve uploaded new content.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Top-right corner:</strong>&nbsp;You’ll see four buttons in the top-right corner of the page:<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Video camera icon:</strong>&nbsp;The video camera icon directs you to the page where you upload videos.&nbsp;</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>YouTube apps:</strong>&nbsp;The middle icon ― a square comprising nine smaller squares ― is for YouTube apps.&nbsp;</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Account activity:</strong>&nbsp;The next button is a bell icon; it notifies you of account activity, such as a new like or comment.&nbsp;</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Account information:</strong>&nbsp;The button closest to the right side ― a profile picture icon ― directs you to your account information pulled from Google.&nbsp;</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list --></li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Customizing your YouTube profile</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Once you’ve signed up for YouTube, you must customize your profile with your business’s information. Every user is assigned a channel according to their username. You’ll be given a specific URL so people can find your channel via a direct link.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>However, you must do more than the basics to stand out from the competition. Take these steps to show your&nbsp;visual brand&nbsp;identity by customizing your channel.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Add channel art</strong>.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>YouTube channel art is similar to a Facebook or Twitter banner. This header is a great place to add your business’s logo and tagline.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Your profile photo (also known as a channel icon) and channel art should represent your brand clearly through high-quality photos. YouTube will fill in generic images if you don’t upload a photo or art. However, your profile photo is pulled directly from your Google account and must be uploaded through Google, not YouTube. Syncing your Google profile photo to your YouTube account will take a few minutes.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>These are the ideal dimensions for YouTube channel art files:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Channel icon:&nbsp;</strong>800 x 800 pixels (displays as 98 x 98)</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Channel banner:</strong>&nbsp;2560 x 1440 pixels, although for mobile and web use, the “safe” dimensions are 1546 x 423 pixels.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Given the large size of these files, using high-resolution images (ideally 300 dots per inch or dpi) is essential for your channel icon and banner. Experiment with YouTube’s preview and cropping tools to ensure your channel icon and banner look their best. If your page looks subpar, visitors will be less likely to stick around and explore your content.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"start\":2} -->\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Fill in your business information.</strong></li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>It’s important to share information about your business and its services in your YouTube account’s&nbsp;<strong>About</strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Links</strong>&nbsp;sections:&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>About section’s channel description:</strong>&nbsp;Start with your&nbsp;<strong>About</strong>&nbsp;section’s channel description. Keep it short and sweet with a concise&nbsp;mission statement&nbsp;with at most three links and a minor&nbsp;call to action&nbsp;or your company tagline. Then, scroll down to the&nbsp;<strong>Email for business inquiries</strong>&nbsp;box and enter the appropriate email address.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Links section:</strong>&nbsp;Add appropriate links in the&nbsp;<strong>Links</strong>&nbsp;For example, add your&nbsp;business website, social media accounts and other web pages you want to share with viewers. You can include up to five links with up to 30 characters of customized hyperlink text for each. The more links you have, the higher your chances of driving traffic to your business website and engaging your YouTube viewers.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>As you write the copy for your channel description and links, use keywords to increase your visibility in YouTube searches. (We’ll discuss that in more depth later.)</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"start\":3} -->\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Create a channel trailer.</strong></li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>While optional, a channel trailer ― a brief video that introduces viewers to the content they’ll find on your YouTube channel ― is an excellent customization option to increase YouTube viewer engagement. Once you add this trailer, it will appear on your account’s homepage when viewers visit, helping to reel them in and acquaint them with your brand.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Interacting with others on YouTube</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>There are several ways to interact with YouTube users:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Comments:</strong>&nbsp;Comments can be organized by most popular or newest. You can boost your video’s engagement traffic by responding to users who comment on your videos.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Likes:</strong>&nbsp;Likes are a more passive form of interacting with content. However, if you’ve chosen to show your likes publicly on your channel, these videos will appear under the&nbsp;<strong>Playlists</strong></li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Subscriptions:</strong>&nbsp;Subscribing is the best way for users to stay updated on your brand’s content. Every time you upload a new video, your subscribers receive a push notification. You should constantly encourage viewers to subscribe to your channel because subscriptions improve engagement traffic and increase view numbers. Many popular YouTubers incorporate subscription reminders at the beginning or end of their videos.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Playlists:</strong>&nbsp;Group related content using the site’s playlist feature to organize your channel’s content. If you choose to publicize your playlists, they’ll appear on your channel’s page below your uploaded content. You can also organize other users’ content with a playlist. For instance, if you run a&nbsp;marketing company, you could compile a client’s videos into one list.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Sharing:&nbsp;</strong>The site’s social widget allows users to share videos on other social media networks, such as Twitter, Facebook, Reddit, Tumblr, Pinterest and LinkedIn.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Messages:</strong>&nbsp;You can also share private videos and messages with friends and contacts on YouTube.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Verifying your YouTube channel</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>How will you know if a channel is verified or not? A small checkbox will indicate a verification badge next to the channel’s name. To apply for verification, your channel must have 100,000 subscribers. However, interested businesses can contact Google directly to inquire about verification.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">YouTube Live</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Similar to Facebook Live, YouTube has its own&nbsp;video livestreaming&nbsp;feature. Broadcasts are usually oriented around news or sports. YouTube Live isn’t as popular as the site’s standard video format because it’s not as widely known.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To conduct livestreams, your account:&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Must be verified</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Have more than 50 subscribers</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Not have any livestreaming restrictions</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To start a livestream, go to your channel and select&nbsp;<strong>Create</strong>&nbsp;&gt;&nbsp;<strong>Go Live</strong>. (<strong>Create</strong>&nbsp;is the video camera icon.) If it’s your first time, you’ll need to request access to streaming. It can take 24 hours to be approved. After you’re approved, you can livestream instantly.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>You can stream via the YouTube mobile app on an Android or iOS device or using your computer’s webcam. Additionally, you can stream using an encoder, which is often used for gameplay and overlays.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trending videos on YouTube</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Trending videos are videos YouTube users interact with at high rates. They’re often newly uploaded. You can view current trending videos under the&nbsp;<strong>Trending</strong>&nbsp;tab on the YouTube homepage, even if you’re not logged in or don’t have an account. Trends reflect popular culture, one-off viral hits and current events.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The platform also features users tagged with a blue&nbsp;<strong>Creator on the Rise</strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Gaming Creator on the Rise</strong>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<strong>Artist on the Rise</strong>&nbsp;badge next to their channel names on the&nbsp;<strong>Trending Videos</strong>&nbsp;page. These channels are showcased for 24 hours. To make the cut, your channel must have more than 1,000 subscribers, and users can only be chosen once.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Don’t worry about creating viral videos for your brand. While you may get lucky and gain significant exposure, your&nbsp;content strategy&nbsp;should focus on&nbsp;connecting with your target customers.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">YouTubers and influencers</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>You may have heard about “YouTubers” ― YouTube content-creation stars. These personalities create and market unique channels that appeal to their target audiences. Many YouTubers specialize in niches like cooking or beauty while others document their day-to-day lives in vlogs. Many have grown and maintained a significant following, sometimes with hundreds of thousands or even millions of subscribers.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Many YouTubers have corporate sponsors who send products to feature in their videos. For instance, cosmetics companies often send products to popular beauty vloggers who create videos demonstrating their use. Some creators upload “haul” videos where they review several products at once.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Working with&nbsp;social media influencers&nbsp;like YouTube stars can be a smart business move for your brand. If you have a service or physical product that fits a specific YouTuber’s niche, it’s worth reaching out to learn their rates and see if they’d be willing to feature your brand in a video.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Advertising on YouTube</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>There are a few ways to advertise on YouTube:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>In-stream ads:</strong>&nbsp;In-stream ads on YouTube play before, during or after other videos. After five seconds, users can skip the ad. You’ll only be charged for the ad when a viewer watches for 30 seconds or interacts with it.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Discovery ads:</strong>&nbsp;Discovery ads appear when a user searches or browses content on YouTube. These clips aren’t limited to 30 seconds; they can be as short or long as you wish. You’ll be charged whenever someone clicks on the ad to watch the full video.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Bumper ads:</strong>&nbsp;Bumper ads are six seconds or less; users can’t skip them. They appear before, during or after another video.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Outstream ads:</strong>&nbsp;Outstream ads play only on mobile devices, appearing on partner websites and within apps. You’ll be charged for these ads based on cost per thousand viewable impressions.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Video action campaigns</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Video action campaigns help brands&nbsp;generate leads&nbsp;and conversions by showing your ads on and off YouTube in one automated campaign.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>YouTube also has a&nbsp;curated directory of ad agencies&nbsp;that can be matched to your business needs to help you&nbsp;tell your brand’s story&nbsp;via video.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">YouTube Partner Program</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>You can monetize your content with the YouTube Partner Program. You earn money from advertisements on your videos and when YouTube Premium subscribers watch your videos. You’re eligible for the program once your channel reaches 4,000 watch hours in the previous 12 months and 1,000 subscribers. You can also become eligible for the program if you have 1,000 subscribers and have received 10 million views on your Shorts within the last 90 days.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>You can check your watch time and subscribers under&nbsp;<strong>YouTube Analytics</strong>&nbsp;on your dashboard. While it may be difficult to reach these requirements, the program allows you to make money on videos you plan to create anyway.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">YouTube Premium</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>YouTube Premium (formerly YouTube Red) is a subscription service, starting at $9.99 a month, that allows users to stream video content and music without advertisements at the beginning of videos. It also lets users download videos to watch offline.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Although you don’t need a premium subscription to operate YouTube for your business, it’s good to know the latest news about the site to familiarize yourself with it.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">YouTube tips and tricks</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Now that you understand how to use YouTube, here are a few tips to use the site to your brand’s advantage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Encourage viewers to subscribe.&nbsp;</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Subscribing is the best way for your audience to know whenever you’ve uploaded a video, created a new playlist and more. It also gives you an estimated number of people who will likely view your video.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Share videos on other social media platforms.&nbsp;</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Link to your YouTube videos whenever possible on your website and other social media networks like your&nbsp;Instagram business account. Don’t stop at direct video links, though. Link to your channel so your audience can see what it looks like and have a chance to subscribe.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>“[You should] have a video strategy,” advised Tracy Sestili, chief marketing officer at Intellimize. “Without a strategy, you can post videos as a repository, but you may not get the return.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Use relevant keywords in a video’s title, tags and description.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Experiment with different titles and descriptions. Selecting relevant keywords to increase hits is a common SEO strategy for marketers on any social networking site. It helps audiences find content that interests them. A quick exercise would be to watch one of your company’s videos from the beginning and create a list of relevant words and phrases as you watch. You should also be realistic about which keywords you use.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>“Don’t go after keywords that big brands compete for,” explained James Robinson, executive creative director at Iconic Genius. “Go after local keywords.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Engage with similar content uploaded by other users.&nbsp;</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Like and comment on videos uploaded by other users. They may investigate your videos and channel ― along with anyone who sees that comment or like. Do this with videos that have a similar topic, interest or theme as yours to attract new viewers.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Display content uploaded by other users.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In addition to liking and commenting on other users’ videos, you can highlight featured channels and your liked videos on your account. In doing so, you show you’re active in your industry’s YouTube community and direct traffic ― a much-needed internet commodity ― to other YouTube users in your realm. Be sure to highlight videos relevant to your&nbsp;customer base, not uploads from direct competitors.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Curate playlists.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If any of your videos follow a consistent theme, group them. Perhaps you upload a video every Friday morning; you could compile all those videos into a “Friday Series” playlist. Your playlists will appear on your channel’s page below your uploaded videos.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Upload content regularly.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Viewers count on you to create, edit and upload new content ― especially if you’ve developed a solid subscriber pool. Consistency adds relevance to your brand.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>“Be consistent,” advised empowerment coach Michelle Baxo. “I found that I was building the most traction when I did a weekly post at the same time and notified [subscribers on] my social networks.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Use clickable links to reference other content.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>At the end of videos, you’ll notice many videos reference previous, relevant or even newer content with a clickable link inside the video. You can add these while editing your video in the site’s video manager. This feature can also link to any pages or sites your video covers.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Work with top content creators to place products.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Popular YouTubers, especially those with frequently trending content, have hundreds of thousands to millions of subscribers constantly watching their channels. Reaching out to them as a potential sponsor could be a great business opportunity. Many YouTube personalities place products in their videos, which gives a specific brand a larger audience than usual.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Use YouTube Shorts.&nbsp;</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>YouTube Shorts are short-form videos of one minute or less. You can record a video from your smartphone within the YouTube app or edit one of your video clips into a shorter version to create a Short.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. Run a contest.&nbsp;</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Running or promoting a contest on YouTube is an easy way to get people to watch and engage with your content. However, before posting a contest, read&nbsp;YouTube’s rules and guidelines</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maximizing your business’s potential on YouTube</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>By incorporating YouTube into your business’s marketing strategy, you place a world of creativity and options for connecting with your audience right at your fingertips. This platform offers many ways to put your content in front of users worldwide through ads or original content. While you can take several approaches, don’t worry about trying to follow all the above tips at once. Working a few of them at a time into your regular social media&nbsp;marketing plan&nbsp;can get you off to a great start.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article,&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/9854-youtube-for-business.html\">click here</a>.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','YouTube for Business: Everything You Need to Know','','inherit','closed','closed','','4322-revision-v1','','','2025-09-22 21:51:45','2025-09-22 21:51:45','',4322,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4361',0,'revision','',0),(4362,1,'2025-09-22 21:53:00','2025-09-22 21:53:00','<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>It’s hard to go a few days of scanning the news without hearing about a major data breach, potentially exposing millions of customers’ personal data to criminals. Here are a few tips to ensure your personal information doesn’t end up in the wrong hands.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"width\":\"650px\",\"height\":\"auto\",\"sizeSlug\":\"large\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https://i.imgur.com/LUViebq.png\" style=\"width:650px;height:auto\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Create strong passwords</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>When creating a password, think beyond words or numbers that a cybercriminal could easily figure out, like your birthday. Choose combinations of lower and upper-case letters, numbers, and symbols and change them periodically. It’s also better to create a unique password instead of using the same password across multiple sites—a password manager tool can help you keep track.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Don\'t overshare on social media</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>We all have that one friend who posts too many intimate details of their life online. Not only can this be annoying, but it can also put your personal information at risk. Check your privacy settings so you are aware of who’s seeing your posts, and be cautious when posting your location, hometown, birthday, or other personal details.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Use free wi-fi with caution</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>A little online shopping never hurt anyone…or did it? Most free public Wi-Fi networks have very few security measures in place, which means others using the same network could easily access your activity. You should wait until you’re at home or on a secure, password-protected network before whipping out that credit card.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Watch out for links and attachments</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Cybercriminals are sneaky, and will often compose their phishing scams to look like legitimate communications from a bank, utility company, or other corporate entity. Certain things like spelling errors or a different email address than the typical sender can be a clue that the email is spam.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Check to see if the site is secure</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Before entering personal information into a website, take a look at the top of your browser. If there is a lock symbol and the URL begins with “https,” that means the site is secure. There are a few other ways to determine if the site is trustworthy, such as a website privacy policy, contact information, or a “verified secure” seal.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Consider additional protection</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Install anti-virus software, anti-spyware software, and a firewall. For additional protection, you may want to consider cyber insurance, which can keep you and your family safe if you fall victim to a cyberattack. At Chubb, our experts are ready to evaluate your cyber vulnerabilities, help cover fraudulent charges, and ensure your family has the resources you need to recover emotionally, too.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article,&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.chubb.com/us-en/individuals-families/resources/6-ways-to-protect-your-personal-information-online.html\">click here</a>.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','6 ways to protect your personal information online','','inherit','closed','closed','','4324-revision-v1','','','2025-09-22 21:53:00','2025-09-22 21:53:00','',4324,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4362',0,'revision','',0),(4363,1,'2025-09-22 21:55:18','2025-09-22 21:55:18','<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Do any of these top 10 shortcomings that make for a bad boss apply to you?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you’re concerned about whether you might be a bad boss, there’s some good news: that’s the first step on the road to improving your leadership style. Improving begins with critical self-examination and understanding which traits may make you a bad boss and which skills you need to become a better one.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>A bad boss is unable to meet their team’s needs and spur them on to reach company goals. Meanwhile,&nbsp;good leaders&nbsp;motivate and inspire their employees to become better workers, which improves the company’s bottom line while&nbsp;reducing employee turnover.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"width\":\"650px\",\"height\":\"auto\",\"sizeSlug\":\"large\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https://i.imgur.com/mj39HI3.png\" style=\"width:650px;height:auto\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10 signs you’re a bad boss</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>This list features 10 traits that are common in bad bosses. If you find yourself engaging in more than one of these behaviors, you could be a bad boss. The good news, of course, is you’ll know exactly where you can start improving as a leader.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Bad bosses overwork their best employees.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Overworking your employees is never a good thing, but managers often make the mistake of forcing the lion’s share of the work onto their best people. This makes your employees feel like they’re being punished for their hard work. Overwork&nbsp;can contribute to employee burnout&nbsp;among your most talented team members.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>It’s not practical or feasible to expect employees to work 40-plus hours a week for someone who doesn’t care about them beyond their productivity and output. One of the best ways to show you care is by empowering your employees to expand their skills constantly, push themselves beyond their comfort zones and&nbsp;pursue professional development. Consider using a tool like a&nbsp;skills matrix&nbsp;to keep track of your team’s competencies and maximize successes.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you need a member of your team to take on a more significant workload or put in additional hours, it’s only fair to compensate them with a raise, promotion, title change or all three. Talented employees usually are willing to take on a more demanding workload, but you’ll lose them if they feel they’re being overworked and not fairly compensated or appreciated.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Bad bosses don’t recognize contributions or reward good work.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Never underestimate the power of a verbal pat on the back, such as “Well done!” or “Great job!” Your top team members ─ who are already self-motivated to perform at their best ─ will push themselves consistently if their efforts are recognized.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Keeping employees happy is one of the best ways to ensure your company’s success. For a manager, a large part of&nbsp;keeping employees happy&nbsp;is striking the right balance of professionalism and empathy.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Great bosses celebrate their employees’ successes, challenge them to learn and grow and acknowledge and empathize when they’re going through a rough time. Of course, this confidence-boosting culture could empower some employees to explore other career avenues that interest them more, but it’s important to show you care about their success even when they move on to their next opportunities.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Get to know your employees’ strengths at work and outside of work. Ask deeper questions to understand their career goals and passions. Then, even if you can’t give your employee a raise or promotion, you might be able to give them a unique project or have them head a committee that leads to better opportunities down the road.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Bad bosses don’t honor their commitments.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>One of the biggest mistakes you can make ─ in business and life ─ is not keeping your word. With each commitment you uphold to your employees, you become more trustworthy and dependable in their eyes.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you fail to keep your promises, your employees may come to see you as uncaring. And since you don’t honor the promises you’ve made, why should they feel any sense of loyalty to you?</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Bad bosses hire and promote the wrong people.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Hardworking employees want to work with like-minded individuals. If you don’t put the time and effort into&nbsp;hiring good people&nbsp;to join the team ─ or, even worse, if you promote the wrong people ─ it can be a massive slap in the face to your high-quality workers.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>This is especially true when you hire or promote a poor employee to a management position. In a survey of United States business managers by workplace learning company Grovo, 98% said their fellow company managers needed more training in essential and interpersonal skills.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>“When ineffective managers are moving in and up, companies should consider that a development red flag,” said Joris Luijke, the former vice president of people at Grovo. “Quality management is one of the biggest predictors of&nbsp;employee engagement, productivity and company culture. Organizations can shorten the learning curve by identifying the specific behaviors of their best managers and delivering bite-sized, engaging learning experiences that turn knowledge into actions.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Bad bosses micromanage.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Managers are in a leadership position because they know the company and often excel at their work. However, this dedication and knowledge can also drive a boss to micromanage employees to ensure perfection. They might even fear&nbsp;delegating tasks&nbsp;because they think they’ll be blamed if an employee drops the ball.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>However, fear isn’t a management strategy. It’s critical to hire employees you believe will meet or exceed your expectations so you can trust them to complete the work. Encourage growth by letting your employees make mistakes so they can self-correct and learn.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Bad bosses take all the credit.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Say you have a fantastic team that has worked extra hours to complete an important project, going above and beyond. As a result, the project is a success and everyone is celebrating. That happy atmosphere is due to the sense of shared accomplishment.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Don’t be the boss who takes all the credit for a team effort. Instead,&nbsp;show employees your appreciation. Take time to thank all team members who contributed and praise them publicly. The more appreciated your employees feel, the more effort they’ll put into future projects.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Bad bosses don’t deal with conflict.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>As a boss, it’s your job to ensure your team runs smoothly. Unfortunately, if you’re never willing to confront conflict, you may find yourself out of a leadership position. It’s crucial to engage with your employees before any tense situations get out of hand.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Keep an eye on&nbsp;disrespectful employees&nbsp;and watch for discrimination or bullying among team members. Promote a&nbsp;culture of inclusion&nbsp;and&nbsp;ethical behavior.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If there’s a conflict between your employees, take a mediation approach, speaking with each involved team member individually to get an accurate picture of the entire situation. The sooner you deal with a conflict, the more you can&nbsp;improve team morale.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The way you handle conflict makes an impression on your employees. If they see you approach problems calmly and fairly, they are more likely to confide in you when they have an issue with a coworker, their position or their professional relationship with you.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Bad bosses fail to set expectations.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you are good at not micromanaging, make sure you haven’t strayed too far to the other side. While employees prefer to make their own mistakes, manage their own time and reach their own accomplishments, there’s a reason a team needs a manager.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>A good boss sees the big picture. They understand the overall project at hand and delegate tasks to complete the job using each team member’s strengths.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>It’s essential to communicate each team member’s role, work quotas and the tools necessary to finish each project.&nbsp;Clear expectations&nbsp;will help keep your employees engaged and productive.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Bad bosses don’t advocate for their employees.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Employee retention is a growing problem in many industries and job types, including manufacturers and warehouses, hospitality and restaurants, digital skills and hourly positions.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>You must advocate for your best workers if you want to keep them. If employees are giving 110% and don’t receive praise, appropriate compensation or advanced opportunities for their work, they will move on to a company that does recognize and appreciate their contributions.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Bad bosses don’t welcome new ideas.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Good bosses&nbsp;listen to their employees. While you might not want to implement every idea your employees suggest, you should still consider their input. Your workers are in the trenches day in and day out. They probably understand workplace efficiency and morale on a deep level.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If employees feel stifled at work, they may start feeling restrained in their personal lives too, leading to a lack of confidence or desire to move forward in their careers. To foster a culture of collaboration and creativity, make sure your team knows that you are open to feedback and appreciate&nbsp;constructive criticism&nbsp;or suggestions.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Grow from bad boss to great leader</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Leadership is a process. The best leaders consistently learn, grow and self-evaluate. Even if you think you haven’t made any of the obvious blunders on this list, use these examples as a guide to ensure you’re an effective and fair leader for your team.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Many great leaders claim they learned what not to do based on experiences with their previous managers. Respecting your employees and treating them well goes a long way toward their happiness and success, your success as a manager and the overall success of your company.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article,&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/11277-signs-bad-boss.html?_gl=1*1msjcm8*_up*MQ..*_ga*OTgxMDY2MzA4LjE3Mjc3NTEwMjE.*_ga_1GL4KJVCM5*MTcyNzc1MTAxOS4xLjAuMTcyNzc1MTE3MC4wLjAuMA..\">click here</a>.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','How to Know if You’re a Bad Boss','','inherit','closed','closed','','4326-revision-v1','','','2025-09-22 21:55:18','2025-09-22 21:55:18','',4326,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4363',0,'revision','',0),(4364,1,'2025-09-22 21:55:48','2025-09-22 21:55:48','<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Feeling overwhelmed by money worries? Whatever your circumstances, there are ways to get through these tough economic times, ease stress and anxiety, and regain control of your finances.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"width\":\"650px\",\"height\":\"auto\",\"sizeSlug\":\"large\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https://i.imgur.com/y0KftmP.png\" style=\"width:650px;height:auto\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"understanding\">Understanding financial stress</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you’re worried about money, you’re not alone. Many of us, from all over the world and from all walks of life, are having to deal with financial stress and uncertainty at this difficult time. Whether your problems stem from a loss of work, escalating debt, unexpected expenses, or a combination of factors, financial worry is one of the most common stressors in modern life. Even before the global coronavirus pandemic and resulting economic fallout, an American Psychological Association (APA) study found that 72% of Americans feel stressed about money at least some of the time. The recent economic difficulties mean that even more of us are now facing financial struggles and hardship.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Like any source of overwhelming stress, financial problems can take a huge toll on your mental and physical health, your relationships, and your overall quality of life. Feeling beaten down by money worries can adversely impact your sleep, self-esteem, and energy levels. It can leave you feeling angry, ashamed, or fearful, fuel tension and arguments with those closest to you, exacerbate pain and mood swings, and even increase your risk of depression and anxiety. You may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as drinking, abusing drugs, or gambling to try to escape your worries. In the worst circumstances, financial stress can even prompt suicidal thoughts or actions. But no matter how hopeless your situation seems, there is help available. By tackling your money problems head on, you can find a way through the financial quagmire, ease your stress levels, and regain control of your finances—and your life.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"health-effects\">Effects of financial stress on your health</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>While we all know deep down there are many more important things in life than money, when you’re struggling financially fear and stress can take over your world. It can damage your self-esteem, make you feel flawed, and fill you with a sense of despair. When financial stress becomes overwhelming, your mind, body, and social life can pay a heavy price.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Financial stress can lead to:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Insomnia</strong>&nbsp;or other sleep difficulties. Nothing will keep you&nbsp;tossing and turning at night&nbsp;more than worrying about unpaid bills or a loss of income.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Weight gain (or loss).</strong>&nbsp;Stress can disrupt your appetite, causing you to anxiously overeat or skip meals to save money.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Depression.</strong>&nbsp;Living under the cloud of money problems can leave anyone feeling down, hopeless, and struggling to concentrate or make decisions. According to a study at the University of Nottingham in the UK, people who struggle with debt are more than twice as likely to&nbsp;suffer from depression.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Anxiety.</strong>&nbsp;Money can be a safety net; without it, you may feel vulnerable and anxious. And all the worrying about unpaid bills or loss of income can trigger&nbsp;anxiety symptoms&nbsp;such as a pounding heartbeat, sweating, shaking, or even panic attacks.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Relationship difficulties.</strong>&nbsp;Money is often cited as the most common issue couples argue about. Left unchecked, financial stress can make you angry and irritable, cause a loss of interest in sex, and wear away at the foundations of even the&nbsp;strongest relationships.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Social withdrawal.</strong>&nbsp;Financial worries can clip your wings and cause you to withdraw from friends, curtail your social life, and retreat into your shell—which will only make your stress worse.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Physical ailments</strong>&nbsp;such as headaches, gastrointestinal problems, diabetes,&nbsp;high blood pressure, and heart disease. In countries without free healthcare, money worries may also cause you to delay or skip seeing a doctor for fear of incurring additional expenses.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Unhealthy coping methods</strong>, such as&nbsp;drinking too much, abusing prescription or illegal drugs, gambling, or overeating. Money worries can even lead to self-harm or thoughts of suicide.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The vicious cycle of poor financial health and poor mental health</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>A number of studies have demonstrated a cyclical link between financial worries and mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Financial problems adversely impact your mental health.</strong>&nbsp;The stress of debt or other financial issues leaves you feeling depressed or anxious.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>The decline in your mental health makes it harder to manage money.</strong>&nbsp;You may find it harder to concentrate or lack the energy to tackle a mounting pile of bills. Or you may lose income by taking time off work due to anxiety or depression.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>These difficulties managing money lead to more financial problems and worsening mental health problems, and so on.</strong>&nbsp;You become trapped in a downward spiral of increasing money problems and declining mental health.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>No matter how bleak your situation may seem at the moment, there is a way out. These strategies can help you to break the cycle, ease the stress of money problems, and find stability again.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"reach-out\">Tip 1: Talk to someone</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>When you’re facing money problems, there’s often a strong temptation to bottle everything up and try to go it alone. Many of us even consider money a taboo subject, one not to be discussed with others. You may feel awkward about disclosing the amount you earn or spend, feel shame about any financial mistakes you’ve made, or embarrassed about not being able to provide for your family. But bottling things up will only make your financial stress worse. In the current economy, where many people are struggling through no fault of their own, you’ll likely find others are far more understanding of your problems.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Not only is talking face-to-face with a trusted friend or loved one a proven means of stress relief, but speaking openly about your financial problems can also help you put things in perspective. Keeping money worries to yourself only amplifies them until they seem insurmountable. The simple act of expressing your problems to someone you trust can make them seem far less intimidating.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>The person you talk to doesn’t have to be able to fix your problems or offer financial help.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>To ease your burden, they just need to be willing to talk things out without judging or criticizing.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Be honest about what you’re going through and the emotions you’re experiencing.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Talking over your worries can help you make sense of what you’re facing and your friend or loved one may even be able to come up with solutions that you hadn’t thought of alone.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Getting professional advice</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Depending on where you live, there are a number of organizations that offer free counseling on dealing with financial problems, whether it’s managing debt, creating and sticking to a budget, finding work, communicating with creditors, or claiming benefits or financial assistance. (See the “Get more help” section below for links).</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Whether or not you have a friend or loved one to talk to for emotional support, getting practical advice from an expert is always a good idea. Reaching out is not a sign of weakness and it doesn’t mean that you’ve somehow failed as a provider, parent, or spouse. It just means that you’re wise enough to recognize your financial situation is causing you stress and needs addressing.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Opening up to your family</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Financial problems tend to impact the whole family and enlisting your loved ones’ support can be crucial in turning things around. Even if you take pride in being self-sufficient, keep your family up to date on your financial situation and how they can help you save money.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Let them express their concerns.</strong>&nbsp;Your loved ones are probably worried—about both you and the financial stability of your family unit. Listen to their concerns and allow them to offer suggestions on how to resolve the financial problems you’re facing.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Make time for (inexpensive) family fun.</strong>&nbsp;Set aside regular time where you can enjoy each other’s company, let off steam, and forget about your financial worries. Walking in the park, playing games, or exercising together doesn’t have to cost money but it can help ease stress and keep the whole family positive.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"take-inventory\">Tip 2: Take inventory of your finances</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you’re struggling to make ends meet, you may think you can ease your stress by leaving bills unopened, avoiding phone calls from creditors, or ignoring bank and credit card statements. But denying the reality of your situation will only make things worse in the long run. The first step to devising a plan to solve your money problems is to detail your income, debt, and spending over the course of at least one month.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>A number of websites and smartphone apps can help you keep track of your finances moving forward or you can work backwards by gathering receipts and examining bank and credit card statements. Obviously, some money difficulties are easier to solve than others, but by taking inventory of your finances you’ll have a much clearer idea of where you stand. And as daunting or painful as the process may seem, tracking your finances in detail can also help you start to regain a much-needed sense of control over your situation.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Include every source of income.</strong>&nbsp;In addition to any salary, include bonuses, benefits, alimony, child support, or any interest you receive.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Keep track of ALL your spending.</strong>&nbsp;When you’re faced with a pile of past-due bills and mounting debt, buying a coffee on the way to work may seem like an irrelevant expense. But seemingly small expenses can mount up over time, so keep track of everything. Understanding exactly how you spend your money is key to budgeting and devising a plan to address your financial problems.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>List your debts.</strong>&nbsp;Include past-due bills, late fees, and list minimum payments due as well as any money you owe to family or friends.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Identify spending patterns and triggers.</strong>&nbsp;Does boredom or a stressful day at work cause you to head to the mall or start online shopping? When the kids are acting out, do you keep them quiet with expensive restaurant or takeout meals, rather than&nbsp;cooking at home? Once you’re aware of your triggers you can find healthier ways of coping with them than resorting to “retail therapy”.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Look to make small changes.</strong>&nbsp;Spending money on things like a morning newspaper, lunchtime sandwich, or break-time&nbsp;cigarettes&nbsp;can add up to a significant monthly outlay. While it may be unreasonable to deny yourself every small pleasure, cutting down on nonessential spending and finding small ways to reduce your daily expenditure can really help to free up extra cash to pay off bills.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Eliminate impulse spending.</strong>&nbsp;Ever seen something online or in a shop window that you just had to buy? Impulsive buying can wreck your budget and max out your credit cards. To break the habit, try making a rule that you’ll wait a week before making any new purchase.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Go easy on yourself.</strong>&nbsp;As you review your debt and spending habits, remember that anyone can get into financial difficulties, especially at&nbsp;times like this. Don’t use this as an excuse to punish yourself for any perceived financial mistakes. Give yourself a break and focus on the aspects you can control as you look to move forward.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When your financial problems go beyond money</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Sometimes, the causes for your financial difficulties may lie elsewhere. For example, money troubles can stem from&nbsp;problem gambling,&nbsp;fraud abuse, or a mental health issue, such as overspending during a&nbsp;bipolar manic episode.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To prevent the same financial problems recurring, it’s imperative you address both the underlying issue and the money troubles it’s created in your life.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"make-plan\">Tip 3: Make a plan—and stick to it</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Just as financial stress can be caused by a wide range of different money problems, so there are an equally wide range of possible solutions. The plan to address your specific problem could be to live within a tighter budget, lower the interest rate on your credit card debt, curb your online spending, seek government benefits, declare bankruptcy, or to&nbsp;find a new job&nbsp;or additional source of income.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you’ve taken inventory of your financial situation, eliminated discretionary and impulse spending, and your outgoings still exceed your income, there are essentially three choices open to you: increase your income, lower your spending, or both. How you go about achieving any of those goals will require making a plan and following through on it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Identify your financial problem.</strong>&nbsp;Having taken inventory, you should be able to clearly identify the financial problem you’re facing. It may be that you have too much credit card debt, not enough income, or you overspend on unnecessary purchases when you feel stressed or anxious. Or perhaps, it’s a combination of problems. Make a separate plan for each one.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Devise a solution.</strong>&nbsp;Brainstorm ideas with your family or a trusted friend, or consult a free financial counseling service. You may decide that talking to credit card companies and requesting a lower interest rate would help solve your problem. Or maybe you need to restructure your debt, eliminate your car payment, downsize your home, or talk to your boss about working overtime.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Put your plan into action.</strong>&nbsp;Be specific about how you can follow through on the solutions you’ve devised. Perhaps that means cutting up credit cards,&nbsp;networking for a new job, registering at a local food bank, or selling things on eBay to pay off bills, for example.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Monitor your progress.</strong>&nbsp;As we’ve all experienced recently, events that impact your financial health can happen quickly, so it’s important to regularly review your plan. Are some aspects working better than others? Do changes in interest rates, your monthly expenses, or your hourly wage, for example, mean you should revise your plan?</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Don’t get derailed by setbacks.</strong>&nbsp;We’re all human and no matter how tight your plan, you may stray from your goal or something unexpected could happen to derail you. Don’t beat yourself up, but get back on track as soon as possible.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The more detailed you can make your plan, the less powerless you’ll feel over your financial situation.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"monthly-budget\">Tip 4: Create a monthly budget</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Whatever your plan to relieve your financial problems, setting and following a monthly budget can help keep you on track and regain your sense of control.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Include everyday expenses in your budget, such as groceries and the cost of traveling to work, as well as monthly rent, mortgage, and utility bills.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>For items that you pay annually, such as car insurance or property tax, divide them by 12 so you can set aside money each month.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>If possible, try to factor in unexpected expenses, such as a medical co-pay or prescription charge if you fall sick, or the cost of home or car repairs.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Set up automatic payments wherever possible to help ensure bills are paid on time and you avoid late payments and interest rate hikes.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Prioritize your spending. If you’re having trouble covering your expenses each month, it can help to prioritize where your money goes first. For example, feeding and housing yourself and your family and keeping the power on are necessities. Paying your credit card isn’t—even if you’re behind on your payments and have debt collection companies harassing you.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Keep looking for ways to save money. Most of us can find something in our budget that we can eliminate to help make ends meet. Regularly review your budget and look for ways to trim expenses.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Enlist support from your spouse, partner, or kids. Make sure everyone in your household is pulling in the same direction and understands the financial goals you’re working towards.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"overall-stress\">Tip 5: Manage your overall stress</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Resolving financial problems tends to involve small steps that reap rewards over time. In the current economic climate, it’s unlikely your financial difficulties will disappear overnight. But that doesn’t mean you can’t take steps right away to&nbsp;ease your stress levels&nbsp;and find the energy and peace of mind to better deal with challenges in the long-term.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Get moving.</strong>&nbsp;Even a little&nbsp;regular exercise&nbsp;can help ease stress, boost your mood and energy, and improve your self-esteem. Aim for 30 minutes on most days, broken up into short 10-minute bursts if that’s easier.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Practice a relaxation technique.</strong>&nbsp;Take time to relax each day and give your mind a break from the constant worrying.&nbsp;Meditating, breathing exercises, or other&nbsp;relaxation techniques&nbsp;are excellent ways to relieve stress and restore some balance to your life.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Don’t skimp on sleep.</strong>&nbsp;Feeling tired will only increase your stress and negative thought patterns. Finding ways to&nbsp;improve your sleep&nbsp;during this difficult time will help both your mind and body.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Boost your self-esteem.</strong>&nbsp;Rightly or wrongly, experiencing financial problems can cause you to feel like a failure and impact your self-esteem. But there are plenty of other, more rewarding ways to improve your sense of self-worth. Even when you’re struggling yourself, helping others by&nbsp;volunteering&nbsp;can increase your confidence and ease stress, anger, and anxiety—not to mention aid a worthy cause. Or you could spend time in nature, learn a new skill, or enjoy the company of people who appreciate you for who you are, rather than for your bank balance.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Eat healthy food.</strong>&nbsp;A healthy diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and omega-3s can help support your mood and improve your energy and outlook. And you don’t have to spend a fortune; there are&nbsp;ways to eat well on a budget.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Be grateful for the good things in your life.</strong>&nbsp;When you’re plagued by money worries and financial&nbsp;uncertainty, it’s easy to focus all your attention on the negatives. While you don’t have to ignore reality and pretend everything’s fine, you can take a moment to appreciate a close relationship, the beauty of a sunset, or the love of a pet, for example. It can give your mind a break from the constant worrying, help boost your mood, and ease your stress.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article,&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/stress/coping-with-financial-stress\">click here</a>.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Coping with Financial Stress','','inherit','closed','closed','','4329-revision-v1','','','2025-09-22 21:55:48','2025-09-22 21:55:48','',4329,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4364',0,'revision','',0),(4365,1,'2025-09-22 21:57:00','2025-09-22 21:57:00','<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Keep calm, stay safe, and collect the info that you’ll need to file a claim</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Being involved in an accident, even a minor one, can be a nerve-wracking experience, so it’s important to know what steps to take afterward. The process of dealing with an accident begins at the scene and making sure everyone involved is safe. Hopefully, you’ll never be involved in a car crash, but if you are, then this seven-step guide can help you know what to do next.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"width\":\"650px\",\"height\":\"auto\",\"sizeSlug\":\"large\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https://i.imgur.com/59nEkYi.png\" style=\"width:650px;height:auto\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\">1. Remain Calm</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\">Keeping a cool head will make it easier to deal with the accident and its aftermath.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\">2. Check for Injuries</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\">Check yourself and any passengers in your vehicle for visible injuries. Call 911 or ask someone else to do so if it appears that anyone is hurt, either in your vehicle or another vehicle involved in the accident. If you’re seriously injured, try not to move until help can get to you.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\">3. Get Your Vehicle Out of the Road</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\">You should clear the roadway if possible. Pull your car over to the shoulder if you can so that it’s out of the way of approaching vehicles. If an accident happens at night, turn on your car’s hazard lights so that other cars can see you. And if you can’t move your vehicle, then get yourself and anyone else involved in the accident to a safe spot away from the road.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\">4. Check for Damage to Both Vehicles</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\">If you’re not injured and you’re able to assess the damage to the vehicles, take time to do that. Try to take pictures showing the position of the cars if they haven’t been moved and the damage to each vehicle.&nbsp;If you can’t take pictures, then consider drawing a diagram to show how the accident occurred, while it is still fresh in your memory.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\">5. Report the Accident to Law Enforcement</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\">If the accident is serious, you should call law enforcement to the scene. Police can create a report of the accident, which you can request a copy of for&nbsp;insurance&nbsp;purposes.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\">6. Exchange Information With the Other Driver</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\">State laws differ on what information you’re expected to exchange with another driver after an accident. At a minimum, you would need to exchange names and&nbsp;insurance information. But you could also try to get other useful information, including:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>The other driver’s phone number</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Make and model of the other driver’s vehicle&nbsp;</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Name and contact information for anyone who witnessed the accident</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Name, badge number, and phone number of any law enforcement officers who respond to the accident scene</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\">7. Decide Whether to File an Insurance Claim</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\">Car insurance is designed to protect you financially if you’re involved in an accident. Unless you live in New Hampshire, you’re required to have minimum amounts of bodily injury and property damage&nbsp;liability coverage.12&nbsp;(And New Hampshire strongly recommends carrying it.) Both of those liability coverages are intended to reimburse another driver or their passengers if you are at fault in an accident.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\">Your policy’s&nbsp;collision coverage&nbsp;will cover damage to your car, while&nbsp;medical payments coverage&nbsp;or&nbsp;personal injury protection coverage—if you have either—can help cover the cost of any injuries that you sustain. Your regular health insurance will help, too.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\">Whether it makes sense to file a claim can depend on:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Who was at fault</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>The extent of the damage to each driver’s vehicle</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Whether any injuries, minor or serious, occurred</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>What type and amount of insurance coverage you have</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>What type and amount of insurance coverage the other driver has</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\">If you plan to file a claim, then get in touch with your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Each insurance company has its own process for filing claims and a list of information that you’ll need to provide.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\">You should be ready to offer any documentation that you have, including a copy of the police report, photos, and the other driver’s information. Your insurance company will assign an&nbsp;adjuster&nbsp;to your case, and that person will assess any damages or injuries to determine how much the insurer will pay to cover the claim.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\">What Not to Do After a Car Accident</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\">Knowing what you should do following a car accident matters, but it’s also important to know what you shouldn’t do.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\">If you’re involved in an accident, here are some of the biggest mistakes to avoid:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_44-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Don’t flee the scene.</strong>&nbsp;Leaving the scene of an accident could result in a criminal charge.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Don’t admit guilt.&nbsp;</strong>When exchanging information with the other driver, take care to avoid making statements that could be construed as an admission of guilt on your part.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Don’t place blame.&nbsp;</strong>You should also avoid finger-pointing at the other driver or accusing them of causing the accident. This is an issue for the police and your respective insurance companies to sort out.&nbsp;</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Don’t talk to an adjuster unprepared.</strong>&nbsp;An insurance adjuster, either from your insurance company or the other driver’s, may reach out to you for a statement following the accident. Don’t talk to the adjuster without first considering how that could affect any personal injury claims that might arise in connection with the accident.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_46-0\">Finally, don’t forget to check your auto insurance&nbsp;premiums&nbsp;after any accident claims are resolved. It’s possible, but not guaranteed, that your premiums will increase. If your rates do go up after an accident, then you may want to compare coverage from other companies to see if you can find a better deal.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is the First Thing You Should Do in a Car Accident?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The first thing you should do in a car accident is take stock of any injuries to you and your passengers. If everyone is ok and if it is possible, move the car off the road and out of the way of other drivers. After that, call the police.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are Important Tips for Filing a Car Accident Insurance Claim?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The first part of filing an insurance claim starts at the site of the car accident. Assess the damages, take photos, and exchange information with the other driver. You should call the police so that they can file an official accident report that will be used in the claim. Next, contact your insurance company and provide them with all relevant documents. It\'s recommended to do all of this as soon as you can.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Does Insurance Work When It Is Not Your Fault?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The way insurance works will depend on what kind of insurance is involved for both parties. If the other party has insurance that covers damages to your car and medical bills, then that party\'s insurance will cover the costs. If they don\'t have insurance, then it may be more difficult to be covered; however, if you have no-fault insurance, your medical expenses will be covered regardless of who was at fault.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_54-0\">The Bottom Line</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_55-0\">A car accident is a traumatic event. If you have one and are thankfully safe, make sure to follow the steps above for the best possible outcome, including clearing the road for other drivers, checking for damages, exchanging contact and insurance information, and filing a claim. Following these steps will help make the entire experience of the accident and the aftermath easier to navigate.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article,&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-a-7-step-guide-5089114\">click here</a>.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','What to Do After a Car Accident','','inherit','closed','closed','','4344-revision-v1','','','2025-09-22 21:57:00','2025-09-22 21:57:00','',4344,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4365',0,'revision','',0),(4366,1,'2025-09-22 21:57:44','2025-09-22 21:57:44','<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>When renting a car, you need some types of coverage. But you may already have the required coverage through your personal auto insurance policy or a credit card.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"width\":\"650px\",\"height\":\"auto\",\"sizeSlug\":\"large\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https://i.imgur.com/XEpIjkD.png\" alt=\"\" style=\"width:650px;height:auto\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\">Here’s how to decide when it’s worth it to&nbsp;pay for coverage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Takeaways</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Rental car insurance can help protect you from out-of-pocket expenses in case of an accident, theft, or damage to the rental vehicle, but the daily fee will increase your rental cost.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Your personal auto insurance policy may already provide adequate coverage when you rent a car, so you may not need additional rental car insurance.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Some credit cards offer car insurance benefits if you pay the full rental cost with the card.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>The best way to decide if you need car rental insurance is to understand the coverage you already have and what is covered (and isn’t) if you add other protections.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\">What Does Rental Car Insurance Cover?&nbsp;</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\">You’ll likely be offered optional rental car coverage at the counter when you rent a car. These coverage types may differ based on which state you’re renting in, but they typically include:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\">Collision Damage Waiver (or Loss Damage Waiver)</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\">For an extra daily fee on your rental, a collision damage waiver/loss damage waiver (CDW/LDW) can cover any vehicle repair costs if you’re in an accident or if the car is vandalized or damaged during your rental period. It may also cover theft of the rental vehicle.&nbsp;A partial CDW only partially covers the cost and may require you to pay a deductible.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\">Personal Effects Coverage</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\">This optional coverage will reimburse you and the people you’re traveling with for stolen or damaged personal items and luggage while in your rental car.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\">Personal Accident Insurance</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\">This insurance pays for medical expenses, including ambulance transport and hospital care, if you or your passengers are injured while in your rental car. It may also provide benefits for an accidental death.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\">Supplemental Liability Protection</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\">Supplemental liability insurance (SLI) increases the liability coverage dollar amount if you injure someone else or damage their property in an accident. It may also cover damage from uninsured and underinsured drivers. For example, SLI could offer up to $1 million in coverage. And if you have your own auto insurance policy, it could cover the difference between your policy’s coverage and $1 million in damage that you cause to others.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\">Emergency Roadside Service</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\">This service pays for lost or damaged keys and any towing or taxi charges resulting from broken or lost keys.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Avis. “Car Rental Roadside Assistance: Extended Roadside Assistance Details.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\">Emergency Sickness Protection</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\">This coverage is intended only for international travelers and covers non-U.S. residents for medical and surgical treatments, ambulance, dental and medical office visits, and more. Significant exclusions may be listed.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Warning</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Most rental car and credit card coverage policies have long lists of exclusions and prohibited behaviors that limit coverage. For example, your CDW may not offer coverage for injury or death while driving under the influence, from a preexisting condition, or if you’re renting the car to get medical treatment. Ensure that you understand your rental car insurance policy’s rules before driving away.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\">Does My Insurance Cover Rental Cars?&nbsp;</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\">If you have insurance policies, the following coverages may extend to driving a rental car:&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Auto liability insurance: Covers damage you cause to others (liability) up to your limits</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Auto collision and comprehensive coverage: Covers damage to the rental car</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Homeowners insurance: Covers items you have in the car if stolen or damaged</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Medical insurance: Covers injuries you sustain in an accident</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Life insurance: Provides death benefits if you die in an accident&nbsp;</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\">Depending on your home state or the state where you rent the car, your&nbsp;auto insurance&nbsp;may even cover rental car damage if you’re in an accident, even if you don’t have collision coverage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\">However, you must pay your&nbsp;deductible&nbsp;out of pocket for damages and injuries, and you are only insured up to your coverage limits in some cases. Some personal auto insurance policies may limit how long you can rent cars for and be covered.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_37-0\">Your insurance may not cover costs that the rental car company could charge you for, like loss of use, which is lost income from being unable to rent the car while it’s repaired. Your insurance may also not pay administrative fees and other charges.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\">When in doubt about how your coverage works, call your insurance company.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\">Rental Car Insurance vs. Your Own Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\">If you’re unsure if you need to get car rental insurance when you rent a car, here’s a look at how you could be covered with and without it. Remember that you likely must pay out of pocket if you don’t have a personal policy for the following.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:table -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Risk</strong></th><th><strong>Rental Insurance</strong></th><th><strong>Personal Policy</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><th><strong>Rental car damage</strong></th><td>CDW typically repairs vehicle damage and associated fees and costs such as loss of use. May not charge deductibles.</td><td>Typically only covers repairs or vehicle replacement up to the car’s actual value and only if you have collision and/or comprehensive coverage. Charges deductibles.</td></tr><tr><th><strong>Damage you cause to other people or property</strong></th><td>Supplemental liability coverage is available, but the car rental may include state-required minimum liability insurance.</td><td>Your auto policy likely includes adequate liability insurance since many states require it.</td></tr><tr><th><strong>Personal injuries</strong></th><td>Covers medical bills related to a car accident, even in an international location.</td><td>Emergency treatment should be covered by health insurance, personal injury protection (PIP), or medical payments as part of your auto insurance.</td></tr><tr><th><strong>Accidental death</strong></th><td>May be included in medical or accident coverage.</td><td>Life insurance policies offer death benefits and may even pay more for an accidental death. Or you may buy a travel insurance policy.</td></tr><tr><th><strong>Stolen or damaged belongings</strong></th><td>Personal effects coverage provides coverage, but with many limitations.</td><td>A homeowners policy may have fewer limits but charge you a deductible.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>\n<!-- /wp:table -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_46-0\">Other Alternatives</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_47-0\">Other ways to get rental car coverage include the following.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_49-0\">Credit Card Rental Car Insurance</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_50-0\">Some&nbsp;credit cards provide rental car insurance&nbsp;as a benefit if you pay the entire rental cost with the card. This insurance only covers rental car damage, not liability. Your credit card benefits description will clearly state which coverage type you have.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_52-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Primary rental car insurance</strong>: This means that your credit card company will act as your main insurance coverage for rental car damage so that you don’t have to file a claim with your car insurance carrier. Remember: You will still need to file a claim if you damaged someone else’s vehicle or hurt them in an accident.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Secondary rental car insurance</strong>: This insurance can piggyback off of your personal auto insurance policy, covering your deductible and other costs beyond your insurance limits for rental car damage. In some cases, such as international car rental or if you don’t have a primary form of auto insurance, secondary insurance becomes primary insurance.&nbsp;</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_54-0\">Some credit cards also offer accidental injury and death insurance and coverage for your luggage and other belongings. Read the card policy carefully for coverage rules and exclusions.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Important</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Credit card rental coverage may not extend to some types of car rentals or rentals in certain countries. If you’re relying on your card for protection, take the time to confirm that your rental circumstances aren’t excluded from coverage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_57-0\">Car Rental Travel Insurance (Third Parties)</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_58-0\">Depending on your itinerary and destination, you could buy insurance from a third party that includes car rental insurance, medical expenses, and protection for personal items. For example, this may be helpful when traveling abroad if auto policies and credit card insurance benefits don’t provide the specific coverages necessary.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_60-0\">Special Considerations: Driving Abroad&nbsp;</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_61-0\">It’s a good idea to speak to your agent to find out if you need to purchase special rental car insurance that will protect you in other countries. For example, if you travel to another country, your personal insurance will probably not cover rental cars.&nbsp;You may also decide to seek out a third-party policy for other potential accidents or injuries that happen abroad.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_63-0\">Price of Rental Car Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_64-0\">You can expect to pay around $30 to $50 per day extra, on average, if you decide to add on CDW/LDW and other coverages.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_66-0\">We collected quotes from three rental car providers across three locations (Orlando, Florida; Las Vegas; and Boston) for an economy-sized car in June 2023. Crunching the numbers, we discovered the average car rental insurance costs. Here are the results, rounded to the nearest dollar.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:table -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th colspan=\"4\">Comparison Quotes from 3 Rental Car Agencies</th></tr><tr><th></th><th><strong>Avis</strong></th><th><strong>Alamo</strong></th><th><strong>Thrifty</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><th><strong>CDW/LDW</strong></th><td>$30</td><td>$29</td><td>$33</td></tr><tr><th><strong>Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP)</strong></th><td>$16</td><td>$13</td><td>$17</td></tr><tr><th><strong>Personal Effects Coverage (PEC)</strong></th><td>$3</td><td>$8</td><td>N/A</td></tr><tr><th><strong>Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)</strong></th><td>$7</td><td>N/A</td><td>$8 (includes PEC)</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>\n<!-- /wp:table -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_70-0\">Coverage cost factors depend primarily on the location or state where you’re renting and the car’s value. You may pay far more for luxury vehicles. You may pay less when choosing more than two qualifying coverage products.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_72-0\">Should I Get Rental Car Insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_73-0\">Rental car insurance can be a good idea in certain circumstances and a waste of money in others.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_75-0\">Consider car rental insurance if you:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_77-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Don’t have liability or rental vehicle damage coverage from a personal car insurance policy or a credit card.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Don’t want to deal with the hassle of claims, reimbursement, or other administrative expenses that your insurance company won’t pay.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Want to avoid filing a claim and paying a deductible for a minor fender-bender.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Want additional coverage because the car you’re renting is worth well beyond credit card or personal policy limits.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Plan to share driving duties with someone not insured by your policy to ease future claims.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_79-0\">Skip the rental car insurance if you:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_81-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Have full auto insurance coverage with ample liability limits and a deductible you can handle, and you can pay loss of use or other expenses out of pocket without worry.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Have health insurance for medical expenses and homeowners coverage for stolen or damaged personal belongings.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Have a credit card with robust primary or secondary rental car coverage, and you can charge the entire amount to the card as required.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Are traveling to a destination covered by your car and/or credit card insurance.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Find a similar third-party travel insurance policy at a lower price.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is the Difference Between Rental Car Insurance and Rental Car Reimbursement Coverage?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Rental car insurance covers costs associated with car damage resulting from an accident, theft, or vandalism. In contrast, rental car reimbursement coverage is optional personal auto coverage for your car. It covers up to a set amount per day if you have to rent a car while your vehicle is being repaired.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I Need Rental Car Insurance If I Rent a Car Abroad?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>When traveling abroad, figure out if and how you’re covered for an accident while driving, including any injuries, damage, and injuries to others. Check with your personal auto insurance company, your health insurance carrier, and your credit cards to get the specifics. If you don’t have adequate coverage (or none at all), you can decide if rental car company coverage or&nbsp;third-party travel insurance&nbsp;will best suit your needs.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does My Credit Card Cover Rental Car Insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Many credit cards offer secondary rental car insurance for physical damage, which may become primary in limited situations. Call your card to find out how your coverage works. The&nbsp;list of credit cards that offer primary rental car insurance&nbsp;isn’t very long, but if you have travel rewards cards, look to see if it’s a featured benefit.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Your American Express card may provide secondary rental car physical damage coverage.&nbsp;But you can add primary rental car coverage (called American Express Premium Car Rental Protection) that piggybacks on your card for a per-rental fee and features expanded benefits beyond traditional primary coverage. However, you must sign up before renting the car.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does Temporary Car Insurance Cover Rental Cars?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Temporary car insurance&nbsp;policies are not really available in the United States for less than six months at a time. These policies may be more available in other countries, such as the United Kingdom—where you can purchase a policy term for as short as one hour and as long as 30 days, for instance.&nbsp;You can also purchase short-term travel insurance policies that provide some damage coverage in the U.S.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_91-0\">The Bottom Line</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_92-0\">Don’t walk up to the rental counter blindsided and confused about whether the rental company’s coverage is worth it. Whether or not you need rental car insurance depends on the coverages that you already carry.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_94-0\">Compare your coverage through your insurance or credit card to your particular car rental situation. Your best bet is to call your auto insurance agent and/or credit card company and ask if and how you’re covered before picking up your rental car.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"https://adclick.g.doubleclick.net/pcs/click?xai=AKAOjsutCp-Y1LFM6gBj3WkWB51xaZHIEXjBPI2Rcmeo6oYfkbpNEtSgNxkJLzWnWrjGGOZLXC3hcbq1kks7JbeoqH9AQOoqOc5VDRd_pzBqLUg6xT4PYtA7QINqsz11RVhszBvCsVusm_uDVIFbEttnkzgJqKKV2Z8Z3pEvRV9jLCokpIALJnjkMxNivQunJnFTCakiwrIqCEiwq8g5DJarxpzRgQ-Mj81z3ECKtqQ8UhwUfHdA-cp1LN2OTRGhCib9dZIaXXG7X8GB80xtp3elHqwnak3xCFe1Aj5u-c8bpChfXXwWP5OfkBxkcfMuekBreaTtZWg4QACPcBqXs5jS1i0Hx0QddNDwJ-H9Fdysj3ig_ocLsFCBEKWbtNA65gz9C6Cn4N7KucOHemoZtGA673Z1zL6uJUQHGH34Nh64ixoseMp8cdHuU18WaxeYibsn_Cc&amp;sai=AMfl-YR9q1KkX5MGeLlegreQklgz_IFCCNmLwdPpWPz2QTESytK3zoSGW286PoWm1wgbYLmKurgbEuQI20UAXEuTP6TDEhAYixq7KWWfM8kZxThdJN-gG7RrEfFWUE15dl3dRoltGtkKhWlaWdqRDolXlXdlV4gNPfmZsQ5-Cm_lEXb87_kMqwFxO5E7Z2DwMruZaPwlLaPpFxoKgGbtm32tbNsdwyBbwmiZaG6rIZj0HnntdW-EO8fieoh53A5AuV7XA4oSEUqhK7wp92AHae1e1grLTvT6J-B-ApLLxg0&amp;sig=Cg0ArKJSzEu9-bHy5WKqEAE&amp;fbs_aeid=%5Bgw_fbsaeid%5D&amp;urlfix=1&amp;adurl=https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N800570.110872INVESTOPEDIAUS/B32850585.416316245;dc_trk_aid=608758255;dc_trk_cid=231319327;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=;gdpr_consent=;ltd=;dc_tdv=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"></a>Did you know that 82% of Nvidia’s gains between March 2024 and February 2025 happened outside of regular Nasdaq hours?*&nbsp;Pepperstone offers CFDs&nbsp;on 100+ US shares 24 hours a day, meaning you never need to miss out when the markets move.&nbsp;Join now&nbsp;for super-fast execution backed by dedicated support. 74-89% of retail CFD accounts lose money *Data from the Pepperstone platform.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article,&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/do-i-need-rental-car-insurance-7546688\">click here</a>.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Do I Need Rental Car Insurance?','','inherit','closed','closed','','4348-revision-v1','','','2025-09-22 21:57:44','2025-09-22 21:57:44','',4348,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4366',0,'revision','',0),(4367,1,'2025-09-22 21:58:38','2025-09-22 21:58:38','<!-- wp:image {\"width\":\"631px\",\"height\":\"auto\",\"sizeSlug\":\"large\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/thmb/z1W9PP3FTi5GXlk1q3HpR8MsDSc=/750x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/GettyImages-661774679-57cd88e73df78c71b62eeb25.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"width:631px;height:auto\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you own a credit card, you have probably been asked by the company if you would like to add credit insurance. Credit insurance may be beneficial in some cases or an unneeded cost in others, depending on your situation and how much insurance coverage you already have. This is the basic information to consider when trying to decide if buying credit insurance is worth it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\">What Is Credit Insurance or Payment Protection Insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\">Credit insurance—sometimes referred to as payment protection insurance—is an insurance policy attached to a specific loan or credit card account. The protection will pay the outstanding balance or the payments for you if you are unable to do so.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\">Knowing what credit insurance is can help you make an informed decision. Here are 5 Steps to help you understand the coverage offered by your credit card company and what it covers so you can decide if you should add credit insurance to your card or not.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\">1. Become Knowledgeable About What Credit Insurance Is</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\">When your credit card company calls to offer you credit insurance, or balance protection insurance linked to your credit card, they may be working with an insurance company to offer a special package to their cardholders that will protect several different things.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\">Four Main Types of Credit Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/credit-life-insurance-for-debt-after-death-4155739\">Credit life insurance</a>&nbsp;</strong>pays off the debt you owe if you die. The&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/beneficiary-definition-life-insurance-policy-basics-2645742\">beneficiary</a>&nbsp;of the policy is the credit card company. If you have&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/who-needs-life-insurance-2645793\">life insurance</a>&nbsp;that is enough to pay off your debts if you die, consider this before spending more money on this extra coverage.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Credit disability insurance</strong>&nbsp;protects your credit rating by making your monthly minimum payment if you become medically disabled. Usually,​ there is a limited period that payments are made for, and any purchases after the disability can be excluded.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Involuntary unemployment credit insurance</strong>&nbsp;will pay your&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/credit-card-minimum-payment-calculation-960238\">minimum monthly payment</a>&nbsp;if you are laid-off or downsized, and again, purchases after the involuntary unemployment would not be covered.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Credit property insurance</strong>&nbsp;is used to ensure the property that you may have used to secure a loan. This would not usually be part of credit card insurance but may be more common with personal loans where your personal property is used as security on the loan. It is important to understand the term, and also to realize that if you have&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/how-to-choose-best-home-insurance-coverage-4016846\">home insurance</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/understanding-what-home-contents-insurance-covers-4135735\">personal contents insurance</a>, then that property would likely already be insured there.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ol>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\">2. Understand How Credit Insurance Is Marketed</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\">Now that you know a little more about credit insurance it is important to understand how it is marketed or sold to consumers. Usually, companies will ask you to purchase it when you sign-up for the credit or sign up in a later telemarketing solicitation. When credit insurance is purchased it is offered free for a specific time, after this specific time you will start being billed because accepting the trial means automatic enrollment in the program (until you cancel).</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\">Unlike a lot of insurance plans, credit insurance can start by a verbal \"yes\" and does not necessarily require a signature so make sure you pay attention to what you are agreeing to or filling out on your&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/credit-card-application-mistakes-960215\">credit application</a>.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\">3. Decide If Credit Insurance Is for You</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\">Considering your current and future financial needs is the first step in determining if you might benefit from credit insurance. If you already have substantial life and disability insurance policies, you may have enough insurance coverage in those policies to cover your credit accounts due to your death or disability. Learn more about figuring out how much insurance coverage you need here.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\">Credit insurance may not be as cost-effective and or flexible as traditional life and disability policies. For example, if you have&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/how-many-credit-cards-is-too-many-961071\">a lot of credit cards</a>&nbsp;you would have to take out a policy on each of those accounts. With all those monthly policies, you may be able to purchase a traditional life and/or disability policy for less and get more coverage, not to mention after your credit balance is paid with a traditional policy your dependants would receive the remaining amount.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\">4. Questions to Ask Before Buying Credit Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\">If you decide that credit insurance is for&nbsp;you, it&nbsp;is important to know about the policy&nbsp;you&nbsp;are getting.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_27-0\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Ask about what is excluded in the policy.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>If you purchase a credit insurance policy that encompasses all 4 types of credit insurance (life, disability, unemployment, and property), make sure you are not paying for something you don’t need. For example, if you are not employed at the time of getting the unemployment insurance you are paying for coverage that you will not use.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Beware of age restrictions, for example with credit life insurance.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Ask about waiting periods and pre-existing situations.</strong>&nbsp;For example, if you think you might be laid off in 6 weeks and this is why you take the insurance, beware that the policy may have a waiting period (sometimes excluding incidents that started&nbsp;<em>for up to 6 months before the policy and after)</em>. Time limits and waiting periods may cause a claim to be denied.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\">Make sure you research all the requirements carefully before accepting the policy. If the person you are speaking to can not answer your questions, then ask to have someone call you back who can. Never buy a policy that you do not understand.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\">5. Find Out If You Can Easily Cancel Credit Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\">Most credit insurance starts on a free trial basis. Before the free trial is over, you should decide if you want to keep the policy or not. Unfortunately, after the free trial&nbsp;period,&nbsp;it may be more difficult to cancel a credit insurance policy. Contact the credit card company if you are not sure how to cancel and get the appropriate instructions.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\">Alternatives to Credit Insurance</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\">Credit insurance is not mandatory, you should not feel forced to buy it. Credit insurance covers are limited because it only helps you with the one credit card. If you are really worried about covering credit card costs due to disability, death, or job loss, it may be a smarter financial move to consider other options that will let you control where the money gets spent if you need help. Credit insurance is limited to paying off a limited amount of debt with the creditor in question. Consider learning more about&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/term-life-insurance-what-is-it-5094214\">term life insurance</a>, or disability which&nbsp;would give you more control of your finances.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article,&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/considering-credit-card-insurance-2645595\">click here</a>.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','5 Step Guide to Considering Credit Insurance by a Credit Card Company','','inherit','closed','closed','','4356-revision-v1','','','2025-09-22 21:58:38','2025-09-22 21:58:38','',4356,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4367',0,'revision','',0),(4368,1,'2025-09-22 21:59:20','2025-09-22 21:59:20','<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Choosing the right amount of coverage is tricky. You don’t want too little or too much. Here is how to decide what you need.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>As a business owner, one of your responsibilities is to manage the company’s potential risk by using best practices, complying with all applicable laws and regulations, and having the right business insurance. If you have employees, you will need to have workers’ compensation (also called workman’s comp or workers’ comp) insurance as well.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>But how do you know what your coverage should be? Too much coverage will cost the company money unnecessarily, while too little could leave the business open to additional claims and court awards in the event of an incident. Here’s how to choose the right workers’ compensation insurance coverage.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"width\":\"650px\",\"height\":\"auto\",\"sizeSlug\":\"large\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https://i.imgur.com/wQg76Yr.png\" style=\"width:650px;height:auto\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is workers’ compensation insurance?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Workers’ compensation insurance provides benefits and protection for employees who are injured or become ill on the job. The program ensures that employees receive benefits and medical care and, in most cases, protects the employer from legal action in the event of a job-related injury or illness. Workers’ comp is similar to other types of business insurance in that a company pays into a workers’ compensation fund, from which benefits are paid to employees.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>“When employees are injured on the job, workers’ compensation provides financial coverage for their medical bills, lost wages and other expenses,” said Jeff Somers, chief operating officer of HouseCanary. “In addition to protecting employees, workers’ compensation limits employers’ exposure to lawsuits after work-related injuries.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to determine how much workers’ compensation insurance you need and the costs</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>How much workers’ compensation you need depends on several factors, including state laws and your industry. Reputable insurance agencies should be able to help you determine how much you need, but you should still do your homework to make sure everything is accounted for.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To figure out your total workers’ compensation insurance cost, consider the following questions.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does your state require for workers’ comp insurance?</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To understand your workers’ compensation requirements, you need to check your state laws. Texas is the only state that doesn’t mandate that companies provide workers’ compensation for their employees. State laws also require regular audits of your workers’ comp policies to ensure you are paying an appropriate amount for the risk exposure your people face on the job.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>“Since workers’ compensation laws are regulated at the state level, business owners should first determine when&nbsp;workers’ compensation insurance&nbsp;is required for their business,” Somers said. “Usually, it’s as soon as they hire an employee.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Some states exempt you from getting workers’ comp coverage if you are the sole employee of your business. Somers suggested that, before you use this exemption, you weigh the potential expense of the claim against the cost of insurance.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>“Since most health insurance plans exclude coverage for work-related injuries, sole proprietors may be putting their livelihood on the line if they opt to skip workers’ comp coverage for themselves,” he said.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the average age of your workforce?</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>“As employees age, the propensity for injury increases,” said Quinten Lovejoy, founder of The 300 Group. “At the same time, a younger workforce brings about less experience and an increased chance of on-the-job injury.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Risk is also increasing for older members of the workforce as more Americans delay retirement. According to the&nbsp;Bureau of Labor Statistics, almost 40 percent of Americans ages 55 to 74 will still be working by 2030. Older workers tend to have a harder time proving that their injuries or illnesses happened on the job, given their higher occurrence of preexisting conditions, so make sure your employees are aware of their rights.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What risks do your workers face?</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Many factors affect how much workers’ compensation coverage a business owner needs and how much it costs. These factors include the risks workers face.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>“With higher levels of risk comes the need for high levels of coverage,” Lovejoy said. “A roofing contractor obviously has a higher risk than someone working in a jewelry store.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Risk factors will determine the cost of your workers’ comp insurance. For example, in New York state, workers’ comp for roofers ranges from about $19.56 to $38.14 per $100 of payroll, while it’s typically $3 to $3.50 per $100 for retail employees.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>While strong safety standards and procedures can offset the danger, the more hazards your employees face, the more coverage you should consider. Common risks associated with construction include falls, trench or scaffold collapse, electric shock and repetitive-motion injuries, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"width\":\"363px\",\"height\":\"auto\",\"sizeSlug\":\"large\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https://www.business.com/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.business.com%2Fapp%2Fuploads%2F2022%2F03%2F23030929%2Fworkers-comp-insurance-five-factors-3.png&amp;w=480&amp;q=75\" alt=\"\" style=\"width:363px;height:auto\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the financial risks?</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Some cities and states have higher costs of living than others. That means employees need to earn more to achieve a similar standard of living. It also means the uninsured costs of medical treatment are higher. Therefore, their losses due to injuries on the job are higher than if they were employed in a different city or state, and they will need more workers’ comp.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Not having workers’ comp insurance can pose a massive risk to you, your employees and your business. Penalties vary by state, but Lovejoy said that in states where the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) regulates workers’ comp, it retains the power to assess and fine past premiums for workers’ comp coverage that should have been in place, in addition to fines placed by the state government.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How many people does your business employ?</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Though a business’s size is not a direct component of the equation that insurers use to determine premiums, it does correlate with its risk. More employees mean more people who could theoretically injure themselves on the job and file a workers’ comp claim. This higher theoretical number of claims may compel insurers to increase your premiums.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much does workers’ compensation insurance cost?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The cost of workers’ compensation insurance varies widely by industry and job type. Employers pay $45 per month, on average, in workers’ compensation insurance, according to&nbsp;Insureon. However, rates also vary by state. For example, California averages $62 per month, while Utah averages about $45 per month.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you are shopping for a workers’ comp insurance representative, there are some&nbsp;questions to ask the prospective broker. You should compare prices, coverage and reputation. You’ll want an agent who answers your calls quickly and understands both your state’s requirements and the specific hazards of your industry.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>You should also know your experience modification rate (EMR), which Lovejoy said is calculated and applied by the NCCI and is essential to determining your workers’ comp cost.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>“The NCCI is the authority that looks at a company’s claims history and makes a projection of its risks based on the business itself and national trends of that industry,” Lovejoy said.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>FYI</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The NCCI does not govern all states. Some states have their own bureaus that serve the same functions as the NCCI.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>John Espenschied, agency principal and owner at Insurance Brokers Group, recommended shopping around for your workers’ compensation insurance.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>“Each insurance carrier will have different risk appetites for business,” he said. “Some companies will consider high-risk companies like roofers, while other companies will never offer workers’ compensation for a roofing business. This means the rates can fluctuate between one carrier and another.”</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How are workers’ compensation premiums calculated?</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Insurers determine the appropriate workers’ compensation premiums to charge a business by assessing three key factors: payroll, classification rate and EMR.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Payroll:&nbsp;</strong>Workers’ comp insurers calculate premiums per $100 of your business’s payroll. The amount your workers’ comp insurance costs for every $100 of payroll varies by state, based on guidance from the NCCI. That said, a high-risk business in a low-premium state may ultimately pay more than a low-risk one in a high-premium state. Your risk is the product of the next two factors.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Classification rate:&nbsp;</strong>This is the formal term for the type of work your team performs, which helps insurers determine your risk. Companies whose employees mostly perform desk jobs are considered low-risk, but businesses that specialize in dangerous manual labor, such as construction companies, are at a higher risk. The NCCI keeps a running list of classification rates and risk levels that insurers use in their calculations of workers’ compensation insurance costs.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>EMR:&nbsp;</strong>Your experience modification rate is a formal representation of your company’s workers’ comp claims history. The more extensive your claims history, the more risk insurers will ascribe to you, which, in turn, raises your premiums.</li>\n<!-- /wp:list-item --></ul>\n<!-- /wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Insurers combine these three factors into this workers’ compensation insurance cost formula:</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Classification Rate x EMR x (Payroll ÷ 100) = Premium</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to save on workers’ compensation insurance costs</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>It’s understandable if you find these workers’ comp premium criteria worrisome; after all, you don’t have full control over how risky your company’s type of work is. You might also feel that being penalized for previous claims adds insult to injury, though this model is the foundation of all types of insurance. However, there are some ways to&nbsp;lower your workers’ comp premium.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Train your employees in workplace safety.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Whether your company comprises mostly desk workers or manual laborers, workplace safety training always decreases the chance of employee injuries, which, in turn, decreases the chance of lawsuits and negative impacts to your workforce. As your number of workplace injuries and illnesses decreases, your EMR appears less risky to insurers, resulting in lower premiums.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Match safety training with safety equipment.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If your team works around hazardous materials, make sure your employees have gloves, hazmat suits and other equipment that prevents hazardous exposure. A well-protected team is less likely to file workers’ comp claims.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Find hazards and address them now.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Don’t wait for a potential hazard to become an actual one; that’s how you wind up with excessive&nbsp;workers’ comp claims&nbsp;that drive up your premiums. Instead, pinpoint your current workplace hazards and resolve them now, before they lead to harm. This could be as time-consuming as upgrading essential equipment that’s in decline, or as simple as moving extension cords out of the way to reduce the potential for tripping.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pay premiums annually instead of monthly.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Maybe you’ve seen a company, whether an insurer or a software provider, offer pricing with phrasing like “$10 a month if billed monthly or $8 a month if billed annually.” The question then becomes whether committing to 12 months of service is too much of a gamble. Because you do need workers’ comp, you’re better off paying for the full year and getting the discount. The cost savings may be worth any dissatisfaction you might feel with your insurer.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best workers’ compensation insurance practices</h2>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Here are some best practices for managing your workers’ compensation insurance.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Review your policies regularly.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Review your workers’ comp policies annually to make sure they are still adequate. You may have hired more employees, added locations or changed some of your business processes, and it is important to mitigate your current risk.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Keep current on insurance premiums.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Make sure your workers’ compensation insurance premiums are paid on time so you don’t have a lapse in coverage.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Communicate.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Make all your employees well aware of what is covered under workers’ comp, what they are entitled to in the event of a work-related illness or injury, how to report a work-related illness or injury, and how the business can support them.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Help injured employees get medical care.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If the injury is serious, assist the employee in obtaining emergency medical care right away. If it’s less urgent, ask the employee if they have a doctor to see. Reference your workers’ compensation policy and applicable state laws regarding guidelines for helping employees get a medical evaluation and care.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Launch an immediate investigation.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Once an incident has happened, the company should launch an investigation to find out exactly what happened and why. Witnesses tend to forget details once 48 hours have passed, so the sooner, the better. Quick action makes it easier to determine the cause of the injury while the incident is still fresh in people’s minds.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Take action to prevent additional injuries.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Once you have determined the cause of the injury, you need to ensure this kind of incident does not happen again. Steps may include cleaning up spills, barricading the area, adding signage, and installing handrails and other safety equipment. “Installing appropriate safety equipment not only lets you comply with OSHA and other regulations, but it is also an investment in your employees, uninterrupted operations and corporate risk reduction,” said Anthony Dublino, regional area manager for SafeRack.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Encourage early intervention.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>As soon as the company becomes aware of an injury on the job, you should report the injury and&nbsp;submit a claim. This will fast-track the claim processing, reduce the worker’s anxiety, and show that the company has the worker’s best interests at heart. When workers feel cared for, they are less likely to hire an attorney and pursue legal remedies.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Create return-to-work programs.</h3>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Lovejoy recommended creating a program specifically for employees who are returning to work after an illness or injury.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>“Companies should have a formal ‘return to light duty’ program,” he said. “If employees are not fit to return to their normal job duties, they can still return to work and perform modified duties and, as such, reduce the overall claim amount.” This is good for the employee, who will be less isolated, and for the company that has the benefit of the employee’s expertise.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Kimberlee Leonard and Jennifer Dublino contributed to this article. Source interviews were conducted for a previous version of this article.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article,&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.business.com/insurance/coverage-amounts/\">click here</a>.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','Workers’ Comp Insurance: How Much Do You Need?','','inherit','closed','closed','','4321-revision-v1','','','2025-09-22 21:59:20','2025-09-22 21:59:20','',4321,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4368',0,'revision','',0),(4369,1,'2025-09-22 22:00:50','2025-09-22 22:00:50','<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Use these tips to get help with your finances today</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"width\":\"650px\",\"height\":\"auto\",\"sizeSlug\":\"large\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https://i.imgur.com/SMzQS4m.png\" alt=\"\" style=\"width:650px;height:auto\"/></figure>\n<!-- /wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Whether you\'re stuck in a&nbsp;cycle of debt, earning too little to maintain your desired standard of living, or simply wanting to get a jump on saving for a major financial goal, such as buying a home or investing, you may need help to get on track with your objectives. Follow these strategies for taking control of your finances right now.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. <strong>Read Books About Personal Finance</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\">If you need help with your finances but aren\'t sure where to start, seek financial wisdom from books written by experts.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\">There are many books out there on taking control of your finances, from how to get out of debt to how to build an investment portfolio. Books offer a great way to change your approach to managing money.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\">To boost your savings, you can buy used financial books online or borrow them for free at your local library. Consider audiobooks if you would rather receive the advice by ear.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. <strong>Start Budgeting</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\">If you are struggling to handle your finances, then you likely need to create a budget—a plan for how to spend your money each month, based on how much you typically earn and spend. A budget is your best tool to change your financial future.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\">To start, write down your income and all your expenses, and then subtract the expenses from the income to determine your discretionary spending.&nbsp;At the start of each month,&nbsp;set up a budget&nbsp;to allocate how discretionary funds get spent.&nbsp;Track the spending over the course of the month, and at the end of the month, determine whether you stuck to the budget.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\">If you spent more than you made, you can fix your budget by cutting unnecessary expenses or earning more if possible. Implement the revised budget the next month to start living within your means.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. <strong>Reduce Monthly Bills</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>One of the easiest things you can do to take control of your finances is to cut your monthly expenses.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>While you may not be able to reduce certain fixed expenses, such as rent or a car payment, without drastically altering your lifestyle, you can reduce variable expenses, such as clothing or entertainment, by being flexible and thinking frugally.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>You can, for example, reduce electricity consumption to lower your utility costs, choose different providers for your home or life insurance, or buy your food at a discount at bulk stores.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. <strong>Cancel Cable</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\">Speaking of cutting monthly bills, there\'s likely one bill that you could cut right now and potentially save hundreds of dollars every month: your cable bill.&nbsp;If you need a little help with your finances or just want to reach your financial goals more quickly, consider cutting cable.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\">You&nbsp;don\'t even have to give up TV altogether. \"Cutting the cord,\" that is, eliminating costly cable services in favor of low-cost streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu, allows you to watch the shows you love without spending a ton each month.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\">If, after reviewing various streaming options, you\'re still determined to stick with your cable provider, downgrade to a cable package with fewer channels to save a little money every month.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. <strong>Stop Eating Out</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\">Looking for an easy way to take control of your variable expenses every month?&nbsp;Curb your habit of eating out. The occasional splurge at a nice restaurant is fine, but the savings can add up if you start cooking at home or bringing bagged lunches to work instead of eating out each day.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Start small by cooking at home at least once a week. The next week, start taking your lunches to work. You may be surprised at just how much you can save. Brown-bagging it can save you $1,300 per year, or more than $50,000 over a 40-year career.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. <strong>Plan a Monthly Menu</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\">If the idea of cooking every night is off-putting to you, plan a monthly menu to make it less intimidating. The advantage of planning meals for the entire month is that you can chop foods or cook meals in batches. This approach also makes it easier to shop for groceries and ensures that you waste less food,&nbsp;because you will most likely use all the ingredients you buy while they are still fresh.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\">One alternative is to use a menu-planning service such as&nbsp;eMeals&nbsp;or PlateJoy to take the effort out of shopping and cooking altogether. These services allow you to choose recipes and have a list of the necessary ingredients sent to your local grocery store for fast pick-up. However, these services cost money, so you\'ll need to evaluate the cost and determine whether using them fits into your budget.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. <strong>Pay Off Your Debt</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\">One of the most expensive mistakes that you can make is to carry a lot of debt, especially high-interest credit card debt. If you want to change your financial picture and gain more financial opportunities, pay off your debt as quickly as possible.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\">Start by listing all of your current debt, be it credit card debt, student loan debt, or a car loan, and figure out the minimum amount you owe to remain current with each one. Simply paying the minimum amount won\'t get you out of debt quickly, so evaluate your fixed expenses, and determine how much of your discretionary spending budget you can allocate toward debt repayment.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\">Try to reduce the interest rate on the debt by asking the issuer for a lower rate, consolidating multiple debts into one, or transferring high-interest debt to a low-interest credit card, such as a balance-transfer card. Then,&nbsp;set up a debt-payment plan, and adopt sound spending habits to pay off the debt as quickly as possible.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. <strong>Stop Using Your Credit Cards</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_37-0\">If you are struggling to make ends meet each month, you may be relying too much on your credit cards. If you keep using your&nbsp;credit cards as a stop-gap measure to make ends meet, you\'ll quickly wind up in debt. That will limit how much money you have each month to pay bills, save for retirement, or work toward another financial goal.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\">If you really want to take control of your finances, stop using your credit cards. In addition to setting up a budget so that you don\'t have to buy things on credit, switch to cash or debit cards to avoid accruing more debt; open a short-term savings account, and draw from it for large expenses; or leave your credit card at home so that you\'re never tempted to pull it out of your pocket and swipe it.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. <strong>Manage Your Student Loans</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\">Your student loans can saddle you with debt for years if you are not proactive about paying them off. Whether you need to refinance or consolidate them, see whether you qualify for a student loan forgiveness program, or add them to your debt-payment plan. Getting control of your student loans is an excellent step to take right now to improve your finances.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\">You don\'t have to drastically step up your loan-repayment schedule, either; by paying half your student loan amount every two weeks, you will make a full extra payment every year. Some lenders will even reduce your interest rate by around 0.25% when you sign up to make automatic loan payments.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. <strong>Start Saving Each Week</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_46-0\">Like investing, saving is another passive approach to growing your wealth, albeit more gradually. To take control of your finances right now, open and direct money into interest-bearing savings account on a regular basis (every week, month, or a certain time of year, for example).</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_47-0\">This may be money that you save on your grocery budget each month, a tax refund, a set amount that you put aside from each paycheck, or an amount that you\'ve allocated in your budget to save each month.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_48-0\">No matter which option you choose, and no matter how little you save, look for ways to increase your savings&nbsp;over time. Small gains will amount to big returns over the long run.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. <strong>Go on a Spending Fast</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_51-0\">Another way to help you curb your spending and get your finances in order is to go on a spending fast, which is when you stop spending discretionary money for a set period of time.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_52-0\">Often, these are month-long periods of curtailed spending that make exceptions only for essential spending categories, such as food, transportation, and recurring bills.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_53-0\">If you\'re willing to live like a minimalist for a brief period of time, commit to this challenge to pad your checking account, change your&nbsp;habits, and evaluate what you need rather than just what you want.&nbsp;The experience may even permanently improve your outlook on money.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">12. <strong>Set Up a Financial Plan</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_56-0\">A financial plan is essential for taking control of your finances and accomplishing specific goals. In short, a financial plan is a timeline for the big milestones in your life.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_57-0\">It\'s similar to a budget, but it covers a longer time horizon of 10, 20, or 30 years down the road, whereas a budget is a short-term plan for the weeks or months ahead. The two work hand in hand, which is why a budget is often a component of a larger financial plan.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_58-0\">These plans can also help you with your finances by prioritizing your goals, as it is often more effective to focus on one or two financial goals at a time. Your financial plan should include events such as buying a home, saving for retirement, and paying for your kids’ college education.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">13. <strong>Set Realistic Goals</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_61-0\">Take the time to&nbsp;set financial goals&nbsp;that you are working toward, such as buying a house or growing your retirement nest egg. If you do not have specific things that you are working toward, you may have difficulty motivating yourself to keep saving or investing each month.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_62-0\">As you set your goals,&nbsp;ensure that they are realistic.&nbsp;For example, don\'t set a goal to pay off $40,000 in debt in a single year when your salary is only $30,000. Unrealistic goals that set you up to fail can discourage you from making the right financial moves in the future.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_63-0\">Finally, track your goals over time so that you can see how much you have accomplished. For example, most modern brokerage firms offer tools on their websites that let you monitor your investment portfolio gains and losses over time. These tools can help you stay on track when you are working toward a long-term goal.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">14. <strong>Become an Investor</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_66-0\">There are two main ways to make money: earning it actively by working for it or earning it passively, while you sleep, by saving or investing the money you have in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, real estate, or other financial instruments. Given that the long-term average annual return of the stock market is 10%, or 6% or 7% when adjusted for inflation, investing in the stock market is a great way for the average person to build wealth.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_67-0\">If the idea of investing intimidates you,&nbsp;enroll in a class on&nbsp;investing basics, meet with a&nbsp;financial advisor, or talk to a trusted family member or friend who has experience in the&nbsp;area.&nbsp;While investing comes with risks, investing consistently and spreading your money in the appropriate percentages across diverse asset classes (stocks and bonds, for example) can help you maximize your gains and limit your losses.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">15. <strong>Protect Your Savings</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_70-0\">If you are great at putting money into savings each month, but quick to dip into it to cover&nbsp;a discrepancy&nbsp;in your budget or buy something on an impulse, take steps to protect your savings from yourself.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_71-0\">Solutions include moving your savings to a certificate of deposit (CD), from a brick-and-mortar bank where the funds are easily accessible, to an online bank where the funds are less liquid, or starting an emergency fund at a separate bank from the one you regularly use.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">16. <strong>Increase Retirement Savings</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_74-0\">Retirement will be expensive, so you should ideally&nbsp;start saving for it when you start your first job, especially if a&nbsp;401(k)&nbsp;plan is offered. Even if you are working on getting out of debt, contribute up to the match offered by your employer—this is free money, after all.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_75-0\">If you are out of debt, work on increasing your savings. How much you should save depends on how old you are when you start. If you\'re in your 20s, you can get by with a contribution rate of 10% to 15% of your income, whereas someone starting to save in her 40s should contribute as much as 35% of her pay toward retirement.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">17. <strong>Find Additional Sources of Income</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_78-0\">Financial issues sometimes stem from insufficient income as opposed to spending issues. If you are sticking to a budget, not spending money on things you don\'t need, and still have challenges making ends meet, you may want to look for a higher-paying job or generate&nbsp;more than one source of income. More income tends to provide more financial stability, especially if you are single or in a single-income household.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_79-0\">If you can\'t change jobs, look for opportunities to generate income on the side or in addition to your job. Passive income from a rental property is another&nbsp;way to build wealth or find more money to get yourself out of debt.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">18. <strong>Improve Your Job Skills</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_82-0\">While it may not seem directly tied to your finances, job security is an important piece of your financial picture, because it dictates how regular your paycheck is.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_83-0\">Ensure that you have the skills you need to stay competitive in the workplace. This may mean taking extra certifications or getting training through your current employer, or heading back to college for a graduate degree that qualifies you for a more stable profession.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">19. <strong>Get Insured</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_86-0\">You can protect your finances by having the right amount of insurance. Common types of insurance include car insurance, renter’s or homeowner\'s insurance,&nbsp;life insurance, and health insurance.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_87-0\">While you may be tempted to skimp on insurance,&nbsp;remember that it protects you from catastrophes that can send your finances spiraling.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">20. <strong>Make the Most of Employee Benefits</strong></h4>\n<!-- /wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_90-0\">In addition to your retirement plans and health insurance, your company may offer&nbsp;additional employee benefits, such as dental insurance, vision insurance, and&nbsp;flexible spending accounts.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_91-0\">Not all of these benefits may be worth the additional money that you pay for them, but some can help with your finances by relieving you of the need to pay out of pocket for essential expenses. Take the time to evaluate your options so that you get the most from your employee benefits.&nbsp;</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To read the full article,&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.thebalancemoney.com/get-control-of-finances-2386026\">click here</a>.</p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p></p>\n<!-- /wp:paragraph -->','20 Ways to Take Control of Your Finances','','inherit','closed','closed','','4303-revision-v1','','','2025-09-22 22:00:50','2025-09-22 22:00:50','',4303,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4369',0,'revision','',0),(4370,2,'2025-09-23 15:57:03','0000-00-00 00:00:00','','Auto Draft','','auto-draft','closed','closed','','','','','2025-09-23 15:57:03','0000-00-00 00:00:00','',0,'https://smartinsurance.tips/?p=4370',0,'post','',0);

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--
-- Table structure for table `smart_term_taxonomy`
--

CREATE TABLE `smart_term_taxonomy` (
  `term_taxonomy_id` bigint(20) unsigned NOT NULL AUTO_INCREMENT,
  `term_id` bigint(20) unsigned NOT NULL DEFAULT 0,
  `taxonomy` varchar(32) NOT NULL DEFAULT '',
  `description` longtext NOT NULL,
  `parent` bigint(20) unsigned NOT NULL DEFAULT 0,
  `count` bigint(20) NOT NULL DEFAULT 0,
  PRIMARY KEY (`term_taxonomy_id`),
  UNIQUE KEY `term_id_taxonomy` (`term_id`,`taxonomy`),
  KEY `taxonomy` (`taxonomy`)
) ENGINE=MyISAM AUTO_INCREMENT=21 DEFAULT CHARSET=utf8 COLLATE=utf8_general_ci;

--
-- Dumping data for table `smart_term_taxonomy`
--

INSERT INTO `smart_term_taxonomy` VALUES (1,1,'category','',0,646),(2,2,'layout_type','',0,1),(3,3,'scope','',0,1),(4,4,'layout_type','',0,1),(5,5,'module_width','',0,1),(6,6,'nav_menu','',0,1),(7,7,'layout_category','',0,1),(8,8,'scope','',0,1),(9,9,'module_width','',0,1),(10,10,'wp_theme','',0,1),(11,11,'wp_theme','',0,1),(12,12,'wp_theme','',0,1),(13,13,'wpcode_type','',0,1),(14,14,'wpcode_location','',0,1),(15,15,'wpcode_tags','',0,2),(16,16,'wpcode_tags','',0,1),(17,17,'wpcode_type','',0,2),(18,18,'wpcode_location','',0,2),(19,19,'wpcode_tags','',0,1),(20,20,'wpcode_tags','',0,1);

--
-- Table structure for table `smart_termmeta`
--

CREATE TABLE `smart_termmeta` (
  `meta_id` bigint(20) unsigned NOT NULL AUTO_INCREMENT,
  `term_id` bigint(20) unsigned NOT NULL DEFAULT 0,
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  `meta_value` longtext DEFAULT NULL,
  PRIMARY KEY (`meta_id`),
  KEY `term_id` (`term_id`),
  KEY `meta_key` (`meta_key`(191))
) ENGINE=MyISAM DEFAULT CHARSET=utf8 COLLATE=utf8_general_ci;

--
-- Dumping data for table `smart_termmeta`
--


--
-- Table structure for table `smart_terms`
--

CREATE TABLE `smart_terms` (
  `term_id` bigint(20) unsigned NOT NULL AUTO_INCREMENT,
  `name` varchar(200) NOT NULL DEFAULT '',
  `slug` varchar(200) NOT NULL DEFAULT '',
  `term_group` bigint(10) NOT NULL DEFAULT 0,
  PRIMARY KEY (`term_id`),
  KEY `slug` (`slug`(191)),
  KEY `name` (`name`(191))
) ENGINE=MyISAM AUTO_INCREMENT=21 DEFAULT CHARSET=utf8 COLLATE=utf8_general_ci;

--
-- Dumping data for table `smart_terms`
--

INSERT INTO `smart_terms` VALUES (1,'Uncategorized','uncategorized',0),(2,'layout','layout',0),(3,'global','global',0),(4,'module','module',0),(5,'fullwidth','fullwidth',0),(6,'Main Menu','main-menu',0),(7,'article layout','article-layout',0),(8,'not_global','not_global',0),(9,'regular','regular',0),(10,'twentytwentytwo','twentytwentytwo',0),(11,'twentytwentyone','twentytwentyone',0),(12,'twentytwentythree','twentytwentythree',0),(13,'text','text',0),(14,'after_paragraph','after_paragraph',0),(15,'sample','sample',0),(16,'message','message',0),(17,'php','php',0),(18,'everywhere','everywhere',0),(19,'disable','disable',0),(20,'comments','comments',0);

--
-- Table structure for table `smart_usermeta`
--

CREATE TABLE `smart_usermeta` (
  `umeta_id` bigint(20) unsigned NOT NULL AUTO_INCREMENT,
  `user_id` bigint(20) unsigned NOT NULL DEFAULT 0,
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  PRIMARY KEY (`umeta_id`),
  KEY `user_id` (`user_id`),
  KEY `meta_key` (`meta_key`(191))
) ENGINE=MyISAM AUTO_INCREMENT=95 DEFAULT CHARSET=utf8 COLLATE=utf8_general_ci;

--
-- Dumping data for table `smart_usermeta`
--

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-- Table structure for table `smart_users`
--

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--
-- Dumping data for table `smart_users`
--

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--
-- Table structure for table `smart_wpfm_backup`
--

CREATE TABLE `smart_wpfm_backup` (
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--
-- Dumping data for table `smart_wpfm_backup`
--



