5 Ways Beneficiaries Can Use Life Insurance Benefits

Life insurance can provide financial security for your family in the event of your unexpected demise. A sudden accident or unforeseen disaster could cut your life short with little warning. When you purchase a life policy from North Georgia Insurance Center in Commerce, GA, you can have peace of mind that your family will be provided for after you’re gone. As your beneficiaries, here are a few ways your family can use life benefits to carry on:

Pay Off Debts

If your spouse co-signed a mortgage or car loan with you, he or she will be responsible to pay for that debt after you’re gone. Life benefits can help pay off outstanding debts so your spouse can start with a clean slate.

Cover Living Costs

Life benefits can help cover the cost of rent, food, clothing, children’s school, and other living expenses after you’re gone. This gives your spouse an opportunity to plan for the future without the financial pressure of paying the bills.

Pay for Kids’ College

You can designate that life benefits be put in a trust to help pay for your children’s college when they come of age. Your kids will appreciate your planning ahead to help them establish a better future.

Help Supplement Parents’ Retirement

Life benefits can help supplement your parent’s retirement in their golden years. By naming your parents as beneficiaries to your life policy, you can continue to provide them with financial aid after you’re gone.  

Pay Your Funeral Costs

Life insurance benefits can help pay for your funeral expenses if no other arrangements have been made in advance so your family doesn’t have to assume this financial burden.

For quality life insurance at reasonable costs, call or visit North Georgia Insurance Center in Commerce, GA today. 

How much home insurance do I need?

There are a lot of reasons to live in Georgia: friendly faces, moderate temperatures, and natural beauty wherever you turn. Georgia is also popular because of its affordable housing, with prices below the national average. 

Those may be the reasons you chose to buy a home in Commerce GA. Even with all those advantages, you still want to make sure your home is protected. But it can be confusing to decide how much protection you need. 

When you purchase your homeowner’s policy at North Georgia Insurance Center, you have to consider all these:

  • What is the value of the land? 
  • How much is the physical structure of your home worth? 
  • Are there outbuildings, like sheds or detached garages? 
  • Add in both small and large appliances, from your toaster to your stove to your air conditioning unit.
  • Do you have electronics? Keep the receipts and serial numbers in a safe place. 
  • Consider the value of your furniture and treatments, such as rugs and curtains. 
  • Add in personal items like clothing, books, and other items. 
  • Are there other considerations, such as expensive jewelry, artwork, or a boat you store on the property?  If so, speak to your agent about whether you need to add special protections for those.  There are usually limits on how much personal property is covered by your policy. 

Your homeowner’s policy is really a contract, and you should be able to look at it and know what is covered and what isn’t.  Make sure your limits cover you well enough that you can feel secure.

Living in Commerce, GA is wonderful, but things can happen anywhere. If you want to make sure you have the coverage you need, or if you just want to ask questions about your policy, please feel free to call North Georgia Insurance Center today. 

Policy benefits for good drivers

Good drivers help insurance companies keep costs in check, and there are many instances when good drivers are rewarded with unique policy benefits. While you may be eligible to have a lower premium due to good driving history, you may not know about the benefits unless you ask. If you are a safe driver in the greater Commerce, GA area and would like to know if you qualify for any policy benefits due to your good driving history, contact the team at North Georgia Insurance Center, we’re happy to help!

  • Good driving history – anyone who has gone years without a claim should take a closer look at their policy benefits. There are many companies that offer perks to safe drivers, and you just might be eligible too!
  • Loyalty programs – do you have multiple lines of insurance with the same company, or have you been a loyal client for many years? It’s worth your time to double-check and see if there are any perks or discounts available from your auto insurance provider. 
  • Educational classes – many insurance providers reward clients who go the extra mile to receive extra defensive driving training or attend other educational classes. If you have taken non-required safety classes, it’s worth checking to see if there are any policy benefits. The same holds true for vehicle owners who have enhanced safety features on their car or truck.

It’s always worth the effort to look into any policy benefits, perks, or rewards!

Drivers who have a good driving record or have taken steps to improve their driving are sometimes eligible for certain policy benefits. If you think that you may qualify, contact the team at North Georgia Insurance Center today and learn more about your auto policy options in the greater Commerce, GA area. 

Keep Your RV Cool with These Road Trip Tips

Summer sun means RV fun! When you’re on the road, however, it can be tough to keep your rig cool without running your generator nonstop. When you’re boondocking in the Commerce, GA area, use these tips from the North Georgia Insurance Center to keep your RV cool without wasting your energy resources.

Think Before You Park

The way you orient your rig has a huge impact on internal temperatures. Before backing your RV into your spot, check out how the sun will hit it throughout the day. Try to place your rig in a spot that is at least partially shaded by trees, hills, or large buildings. If that isn’t possible, try to park your RV so that your larger windows avoid full exposure to early morning and late afternoon sun.

Cover It Up

Keep the heat outside with windshield covers and thermal curtains. Use a thick and dark-colored cloth to cover your windows through the warmest part of the day. This controls interior temperatures without the need for any additional electrical current. It’s also a great way to maintain privacy in crowded parks. Don’t forget to cover your skylights as well.

Ventilate

Air circulation can help us feel cooler, even if the temperature doesn’t change much. Invest in small fans to keep the air in your rig moving on hot days. Install a rooftop fan to distribute the air more efficiently throughout your RV. Choose battery-powered devices to save even more stress on your generator.

Add Awnings

If your docking space lacks natural shade, you can always bring your own. A simple tarp stretched across the width of your rig will keep heat from following you in every time you open and close your door. It can also keep the sun-side of your RV cooler throughout the day by shielding it from the sun’s rays. If you use your RV frequently, it might be worthwhile to have a permanent awning installed.

Summer RV time is much more fun when your rig is comfortable. Contact the experts at North Georgia Insurance Center for more tips on keeping your Commerce, GA RV cool all season long.

Should I Buy Uninsured/Underinsured Motorcycle Insurance?

Uninsured or underinsured motorcycle insurance is available to drivers in case they’re involved in an accident where the at-fault party is unable to cover the costs of the event. It’s not necessarily required for drivers, but it can be a very nice benefit to have in certain situations. If you live in Commerce, GA, North Georgia Insurance Center wants you to be aware of what it means to have total coverage. 

At-Fault Drivers 

When an accident occurs in Georgia, it’s the at-fault driver who is required to make restitution to the other party. They should be covering not only property damage but also potential bodily injury that may have occurred from the accident. However, not all drivers buy insurance or purchase enough insurance to cover the total expenses of the accident. If you’re hit by someone with a $100,000 policy limit and the bills total $150,000, you may need to cover the additional expenses on your own. 

Do I Need Uninsured Motorcycle Insurance?

As the injured party, you are able to request the additional costs from the at-fault party. However, there is no guarantee you’ll receive these funds. Uninsured/underinsured motorcycle insurance is designed for drivers in this situation, so they don’t have to worry about coming up with the funds. Experts recommend this extra insurance to all drivers, especially if they live in an area with a high population of uninsured or uninsured drivers. 

Motorcycles should be a stress reliever and not a source of anxiety. If you want to find out more about your risks on the road (and what you can do about them), call North Georgia Insurance Center today. We’re here to help the people of Commerce, GA stay safe and protected, no matter what they may face when they’re enjoying the freedom of their bike. 

Help! I need to find dental and vision insurance in Commerce, GA

The medical insurance world has changed dramatically in the last several years, and one of the biggest changes is the availability of affordable insurance through more providers for dental and vision needs. Neither of those is covered under your regular medical insurance, and many people put off necessary care because they are worried about costs and even whether a provider will see them. If you are in Commerce, GA, North Georgia Insurance Center can help you find a plan that will help you start taking care of that important individual or family needs.

Traditionally, the best choices for dental and vision insurance were through employers, but not everyone has that option. Many dental and vision policies are considered add-ons, and they can be purchased at an additional price through the same provider where you get your medical insurance. We can help you compare the costs of different insurance providers, and even help you find out if your preferred dental or vision providers are covered under a specific policy.

Dental Plans vs Dental Insurance

You may have heard about dental plans, which are advertised as an alternative to dental insurance. They are normally offered at what seems to be a competitive price, and if you don’t have insurance, that can seem like a bargain.

Unfortunately, dental plans normally require you to still pay out-of-pocket for any procedures you need, and most people find that they will save money in the long run by using dental insurance instead. Dental insurance will also cover expensive cleaning and exams, making it more likely you will get the care you need.

Your vision and dental health are too important to neglect because of insurance. If you live in Commerce, GA, please feel free to call North Georgia Insurance Center so we can show you how easy it is to get started with a new vision and dental insurance.

How to Get Life Insurance

Most people in Commerce, GA will qualify for life insurance, but it can be easier to get if you are younger and in good health. There are different types of life insurance, so you may be able to qualify no matter what stage of life you are in. Discuss your options with an agent at North Georgia Insurance Center.

The first step is to fill out an application. On the application, you will be asked your health history, lifestyle habits, weight, family history, and income. You should answer these questions honestly because your policy can be cancelled if you lie on your application.

The next step may only be required for some policies. You will undergo a medical exam to evaluate your overall health. The medical exam will review your medical history, review your habits, check your blood pressure, weight and height, and take both a blood sample and a urine sample.

In order to get insurance, you will need to select a death benefit that is equal to your lost income potential. You also want a policy that you can afford so the premium is something you can pay. If you aren’t able to make your premiums, then your policy will be cancelled. If you choose a death benefit that is too big in correlation with your risk level, then you may not qualify.

There are some things that can make it more difficult to get life insurance. This includes having a pre-existing condition, major heart attack, dangerous habits, or a high-risk occupation. If you are in these categories, it may still be possible to get insurance, but you will have a higher premium and there could be a limit on the coverage you can have.

Contact North Georgia Insurance Center, serving Commerce, GA, to get a quote on life insurance.

Home Insurance And The Bread And Breakfast

The bed and breakfast industry is a consistent and thriving entity that keeps the ability for some to vacation at an accessible level. Many tourists enjoy seeing the country from the view of a beautifully kept inn or bed-and-breakfast. If you are new to the concept of a bed-and-breakfast it simply entails a homeowner providing lodging and food for a guest for a fee. Typically time spent at a bed-and-breakfast will be less expensive than a commercial hotel stay. If you’re planning to enter this arena there are a lot of liability issues that you should consider. Maybe you have a spare bedroom or you and your partner are recent empty-nesters and you are wondering how to combine your innate pull towards expansive hospitality and the need for some extra income. 

It’s important to understand that your home insurance policy is meant for protecting your property and liability as it pertains to you and your family. While there are provisions for accidents that may occur to others, a home insurance policy is not designed for the extensive liability that may be incurred while running a bed and breakfast. Come and speak with one of our agents today to understand the parameters of your home insurance policy.

If you are looking for insurance services in  Commerce, GA come into the offices of North Georgia Insurance Center.  Our address is 1490 S. Broad Street Commerce, GA  30529. If you’re in the market for auto insurance, life insurance, health insurance, motorcycle insurance or recreational vehicle (RV) insurance we’re here to help you understand your policy and get the very best service and care. Don’t leave a liability untended. Call or stop in today.

Auto Insurance Option for Drag Racers

Drag racing in Commerce, GA is a popular pastime and one that requires high-quality insurance policies to properly manage. Thankfully, we at North Georgia Insurance Center can provide you with the choices you need to keep your drag racer fully insured on the track.

Race Coverage Protects Vehicles

Normal auto insurance policies do not cover drag racing because they are designed just for normal everyday driving. However, that doesn’t mean that a drag racer can’t find a policy for their vehicle. These coverage options fall under the heading of racing insurance and are available from multiple providers.

Racing coverage will vary depending on a multitude of factors, including the age and the value of the specific vehicle being covered. For example, normal racing is different than drag racing and requires a slightly different policy that covers the unique demand put on a vehicle by this action.

Policy Options Vary

When buying racing insurance, draggers need to make sure that they choose one that suits their needs. For example, liability is necessary because these types of races often trigger injuries and other health problems in the racer and even in their opponents on the track.

Just as importantly, these racers need to purchase policy options that provide accurate and detailed protection if their vehicles get damaged. For example, a driver may run into another car on the track, get a ding or a dent, and use their racing insurance to pay for these repairs quickly and efficiently.

Find Insurance for Your Drag Racer

Anybody who enjoys drag racing in and around Commerce, GA should contact us at North Georgia Insurance Center to find high-quality racing insurance for their drag vehicles. Our experts will tweak policy to suit your needs and ensure that you are fully covered for your needs.

How does motorcycle insurance work in Georgia?

You must have an M-class license to operate a motorcycle in the state of Georgia. You also need the proper insurance to drive legally. Read on to learn about policy limits and other responsibilities regarding motorcycle insurance!

Georgia auto policy minimums

The state of Georgia requires minimum bodily insurance of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. You must also have an assurance policy that pays a minimum $25,000 per accident for property damage.

Although some take the risk of operating a motorcycle without insurance in Commerce, GA, it is not recommended that drivers ignore the law and operate any vehicle without the proper assurance plan. You subject yourself to a hefty fine if a law enforcement officer discovers that you do not have the proper insurance during a traffic stop. There is also the financial loss that comes with being underinsured or without an indemnity plan altogether. Contacting an agent at North Georgia Insurance Center is the best way to ensure that you remain in compliance with the law.

How does motorcycle insurance in Georgia work?

Motorcycle insurance works much like a standard auto assurance plan. You select your policy limits, which determine how big or small your premium payments will be every month. The plan then serves as a sort of safety net that you can rely on when you have an at-fault accident or when someone else is the offender but lacks the proper insurance to pay for the damages.

How much does motorcycle insurance cost?

Your motorcycle indemnity plan in Commerce, GA may not be as expensive as you think. There are some instances when the frequency of operation significantly affects the premium amount. You may find that you pay less for taking occasional joyrides on your bike. The make and model of your motorcycle also factor into the monthly cost.

Of course, you cannot get an accurate quote on motorcycle insurance until you call the experts at North Georgia Insurance Center. Jumpstart your plan today!