New Year's Resolution: Take Inventory of Your Insurance

January's here -- which means it's time to take inventory of your insurance needs! The beginning of the year is a great time to take stock of your current insurance needs, considering what's changed since last year, and what you anticipate in the upcoming year.

Here's your New Year's Insurance Checklist:

Auto Insurance

Here are a few things to consider: Are all the drivers in your household listed on your policy? Are you taking advantage of all possible discounts? Can you afford higher deductibles? (It might save you a substantial amount on your premium). Finally, if you've changed jobs, started or closed a business, it might affect your policy -- and your agent can match you with a different policy that might save you money!

Home or Renters Insurance

Okay, homeowners/renters: do you have smoke detectors on every level of your home? (Do you change the batteries twice a year?) Have you bought jewelry or fine arts (you may want to up your coverage). Have you added any additions or improvements, or significantly increased the value of things you own? It might be time to adjust the limits on your policy. Call us to discuss your options!

Flood Insurance

As spring approaches, remember: Homeowners policies do not cover floods. If you have a mortgage on your home and you live in a flood plain, your bank probably requires you to carry flood insurance -- review your policy. If you don’t have a mortgage, you can still buy flood insurance. It’s also possible to purchase flood insurance if you don’t live in a flood plain, and could be worth looking into.

Life Insurance

Life changes roll call: Have you lost weight or stopped smoking? You may qualify for lower premiums. Have you gotten married, bought a home or had children? If so, it’s definitely time for a review your life insurance policy. (Oh -- and have you updated your will recently? Review that document, as well!) If you've gone through any major life changes in the last year, contact your agent to discuss the best way to cover everything.

Happy New Year! If you have any questions about anything insurance-related, please give us a call to discuss!

Photo credit: Oliver Tacke/Flickr.