7 Things You Must Do To Find an Honest Insurance Agent
The Californer/10287108

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. - Californer -- Steps To Take When Choosing an Insurance Agent

1. Assess All Your Insurance Needs

A. Revisit Your Health, Auto, Home, Life and Business Insurance Policies

Look at the coverages you have and what those coverage limits are. Decide if your policy benefits are sufficient or if you need more or less coverage for what you have now, e.g. Your car has lost value and is worth less than $4,000 so you want to drop your collision and comprehensive coverage on your car insurance policy..

Understand your insurance coverages before you begin comparing rates. You never want to buy a cheaper policy that is less comprehensive, unless it's for a reason. Plus, you don't want to compare apples to oranges when comparing. Don't buy on price alone!

B. Read Exclusion Lists

There's always a list of exclusions, so get familiar with them on your policy, because each insurer's exclusion list is unique. See if there are gaps in your coverage based on what's not covered. Jot down the type of rider you'll need to buy to close the gap. E.g. you have aftermarket accessories on your car, which are not covered by your policy.

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C. Nab a Discount (or Two!) Before You Switch

See if there are loyalty discounts with the insurers you currently have for car (https://smartfinancial.com/car-insurance-discounts), home insurance and even business insurance. These three can be bundled easily, which is yet another discount! See how low you can go with your current policies before you start comparing rates.

D. Check Out Marketplace Health Insurance Plans

Depending on your income, you may actually pay less buying an individual plan in the marketplace than from your employer. Always compare rates before signing up.

Also, if you don't have an employer-sponsored health insurance policy or need to buy a policy on your own for any reason, you can do so during the Open Enrollment Period, which occurs each fall. Or, you may be eligible for the Special Enrollment Period, if you had a major life change, like having a baby or losing a job or changing jobs (and more).

To read the other 6 things to do to find an honest agent visit https://smartfinancial.com/how-to-choose-an-insurance-agent