Wenatchee Insurance Agency is ready to assist if you’re in the Wenatchee, WA area and planning to update your motorcycle insurance policy. We aim to ensure you can enjoy a great riding season when spring arrives, which is much easier when you have peace of mind. Here’s what you need to know about making important updates to your bike policy.
Review Your Policy With an Agent
Reviewing your policy with one of our agents is the best way to ensure you’re ready to ride when the weather improves. We recommend reviewing your policy at least once a year, and winter can be an ideal time to do so. Since you’re less likely to be riding in cold weather, it’s a great opportunity to focus on bike maintenance, insurance updates, and other details that will prepare you for spring.
Make Necessary Changes for Optimal Protection
Staying protected when you ride is essential. That includes wearing proper gear, focusing on the road ahead, and having a policy that provides the coverage you need. After reviewing your policy and ensuring it’s properly updated, our agents are here to help you make the necessary changes and ensure it’s properly updated. Then, you can ride with confidence, knowing that you have the right insurance in case of a claim. Feeling secure allows you to focus on enjoying the ride without worrying about coverage.
The Right Coverage Makes a Difference
If you live in the Wenatchee, WA, area and need to update your motorcycle insurance policy, contact us today at Wenatchee Insurance Agency. Our dedicated agents are here to help you protect yourself and your motorcycle, preparing you for the spring riding season and all your upcoming adventures.
The 1095 Form, Taxes, and Individual Health Insurance: A Match Made in (Paperwork) Heaven
Ah, tax season—when we trade our snow shovels for calculators and every mailbox visit feels like a lottery draw, except instead of money, we get… forms. If you’ve got individual health insurance, there’s one form you can’t escape: the 1095. It starts the third week in January. But don’t worry! Suzie from Wenatchee Insurance has seen it all, and with her knack for breaking things down (and a good sense of humor), she’s here to help you understand how your health insurance and taxes go hand-in-hand.
What Is the Mysterious 1095 Form?
The 1095 form is like the awkward cousin of the W-2. It doesn’t hold the keys to your refund, but it’s crucial for showing Uncle Sam you had health insurance last year. Think of it as your golden ticket to avoid paying the “Individual Shared Responsibility Payment” (aka the we-didn’t-see-your-coverage penalty).
If you bought health insurance through the Washington Healthplanfinder, you’ll likely receive a 1095-A. If your coverage came directly from a private insurer, you might get a 1095-B. If you received Apple Health then you may be looking at a 1095-B form. Either way, they both scream, “Proof I’m covered!”
Suzie will tell you straight: Don’t panic. When the form arrives, here’s your action plan:
Check it for Errors Suzie swears by the two-minute error check. Are your name, address, and Social Security number correct? Is the coverage period accurate? If you spot a mistake, reach out to your insurance provider ASAP.
File It with Your Taxes The IRS doesn’t need you to send in the form, but keep it handy. Your tax software or accountant might ask for it to confirm your coverage.
Double-Check Tax Credits If you received premium tax credits (yay, lower premiums!), the 1095-A is your BFF for reconciling them on Form 8962. Suzie’s advice? Don’t skip this step—it could mean the difference between a sweet refund and an awkward bill.
How Does Individual Health Insurance Affect Your Taxes?
Suzie often says, “Health insurance and taxes are like peanut butter and jelly: a weird combo, but they work.” Here’s how:
Tax Credits If you qualified for tax credits through the Marketplace, your 1095-A shows how much the government chipped in. If your income changed during the year and you didn’t update the Marketplace, you might owe (or get back!) some of that credit.
Penalties (Not So Much Anymore) Suzie says the big bad penalty is mostly a thing of the past, but some states (like California and New Jersey) still have individual mandates. If you live in one of these, your 1095 form is your get-out-of-jail-free card.
Self-Employed Deductions Here’s a silver lining: If you’re self-employed, you might be able to deduct your health insurance premiums. That’s right—your individual plan could save you money on taxes.
Suzie’s Top Tip for Stress-Free Tax Season
Suzie’s golden rule: Organize early, relax later. Don’t let your 1095 form live under a pile of junk mail until April 14th. As soon as it arrives, add it to your tax folder—or, as Suzie calls it, “The Box of Financial Doom.”
If you have lost your 1095 or don’t have a printer then stop in. We do print copies for our clients.
And if you’re confused about your plan, tax credits, or which 1095 form you should expect, don’t hesitate to call Wenatchee Insurance. Suzie and Matt specialize in turning health insurance headaches into manageable to-dos.
When in Doubt, Ask for Help
Taxes are complicated, health insurance is complicated, and when you combine the two? Let’s just say Suzie has seen some impressive forehead wrinkles from her clients. But that’s why Wenatchee Insurance is here—to make things simple, funny, and as painless as possible.
When you have a plan from the Healthplanfinder then you are required to file your taxes every year.
Topics: health insurance, tax document, 1095, apple health, Molina, Ambetter, Community Health, Suzie, Chelan County, Okanogan, Grant County, Douglas County, 509, Leavenworth, Quincy, Cashmere, Entiat,
What about boat insurance? Owning a boat in Wenatchee provides unique opportunities to explore local waterways along the Columbia River and beyond. If you’re a local boat owner planning to navigate the open waters with friends and loved ones, it’s crucial to have adequate insurance coverage. This protects you, your passengers, and your vessel from potential mishaps that can occur during your journey.
Does Boat Insurance Cover My Passengers in an Accident?
The extent to which your boat insurance covers your passengers in an accident largely depends on the type of boat or watercraft insurance you have. For instance, minimum liability policies may only protect other passengers and vessels in the event of a sideswipe or head-on collision on the water.
Boaters seeking comprehensive coverage often opt for boat or watercraft insurance that can financially protect them and their passengers from a wide range of collision-related and non-collision-related perils. Comprehensive boat insurance can help offset the costs of legal liability claims associated with accidents and help boat owners recoup the costs of boating repairs, total loss replacements, or issues related to theft, natural disasters, and vandalism.
How Do I Know If My Boat Insurance Policy Offers Comprehensive Coverage for Boating Accidents?
The best way to understand exactly what your boat insurance policy covers is to contact a licensed local agent who can explain the provisions of your policy. A well-structured policy will protect your vessel from various standard and uncommon perils.
Contact Wenatchee Insurance Agency in WA for a boat insurance quote and learn more about the coverages you and your passengers are eligible for. Don’t wait until a boating accident or hull damage results in high out-of-pocket expenses.
Call us today for a boat or watercraft insurance quote from Wenatchee Insurance Agency!
Ah, the new year. A time for resolutions you may or may not keep, gym memberships that go unused after January 15th, and… Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment! That’s right, folks. While the world is busy pretending kale smoothies are delicious, you’ve got the golden opportunity to switch, drop, or tweak your Medicare Advantage plan from January 1st to March 31st.
So, what exactly is Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment? Don’t worry, we’re here to make it crystal clear, with fewer big words and more laughs. And if it still feels like a brain bender? That’s when you call Wenatchee Insurance and let Suzie save the day.
The Open Enrollment Lowdown
Imagine you bought a car, but by January you realize it’s more of a lemon than a luxury ride. Maybe it gets terrible mileage. Maybe the stereo only plays polka music. Either way, you need a switch. Well, Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment is your chance to ditch the “lemon” plan and grab something that fits your life—minus the accordion solos.
During this special window:
You can switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan (because sometimes you just need a better deal).
You can drop your Medicare Advantage plan and go back to Original Medicare (hello, freedom!).
You can add a Medicare Part D plan for prescriptions (because paying full price for meds isn’t on anyone’s vision board).
It’s a relaunch for this year’s health insurance. But here’s the kicker: you can only make ONE change during this window. That’s right—no double-dipping. So, we have to make it count!
Here’s the deal: Medicare rules can feel more confusing than assembling furniture with no instructions. One minute you’re comparing plans, and the next you’re buried in pamphlets muttering, “What even is a deductible?” It’s a slippery slope, my friend.
Enter Suzie. She’s not just any insurance agent; she’s the Medicare whisperer of Wenatchee Insurance. Picture this: while you’re sipping coffee and trying to remember what Part C does, Suzie’s already found three plans that cover your favorite doctors, lower your out-of-pocket costs, and include extra perks like dental or vision. She’s like a superhero, but instead of a cape, she wears a friendly smile and has a phone glued to her hand.
Need examples? Let’s say you’re Steve from East Wenatchee. Steve didn’t call Suzie last year and ended up with a plan that didn’t cover his prescriptions—ouch. Meanwhile, Betty from Cashmere gave Suzie a ring, and now her plan includes gym memberships and a dental cleaning so good her dentist asked for her secret.
Don’t be a Steve. Be a Betty.
Where can we get our one stop insurance shop in North Central Washington?
At Wenatchee Insurance, Suzie, Matt and Shayla make the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment period a breeze. They do the research, break down the jargon from the different insurance companies, and find you the best plan for you and your family. No accordion solos, no paperwork nightmares—just great coverage and a sigh of relief.
So, if you’re ready to switch things up (or just make sure you’re on the right plan), pick up the phone and call Suzie. Trust us: your future self will thank you.
Most business owners are concerned about protecting their business in any way possible. This includes protecting their business operations and any incident that could affect the health of their business, whether it’s online or in a brick-and-mortar location. However, understanding what coverage would suit their business best, as well as how much, can be a daunting task. We understand this truth at Wenatchee Insurance Agency. As a result, we’re committed to helping Wenatchee, WA business owners understand business insurance and get the coverage they need to fulfill the needs of their unique businesses. We want business owners to understand the different types of insurance available to them and how they work.
What is Umbrella Insurance?
Umbrella insurance is additional insurance. For example, suppose the limits of your primary insurance policy are insufficient to cover an eligible incident. In that case, umbrella insurance kicks in to cover the amounts your primary insurance won’t cover. It’s backup insurance that meets your needs once you’ve maxed out your primary insurance policy.
What is umbrella insurance, and do I need it as a small business owner?
Umbrella insurance is backup insurance used once your primary insurance limits have been met. There are various reasons why umbrella insurance is a wise investment for many business owners. Umbrella insurance can function as primary insurance if an incident occurs, but your primary insurance policy does not cover that. Lawsuits and other high-risk situations are covered by umbrella insurance. You benefit from this insurance if you’re a business owner with a substantial risk of lawsuits, damages, injuries, and other situations that your business is prone to regularly. The best part about umbrella insurance is that it provides beneficial coverage and is often low-cost. It is an extra layer of coverage that provides many perks and benefits for businesses. Call us if you think you could benefit from umbrella insurance and want to explore your options. We’d be happy to help.
Tis the Season to Be Insured: How Insurance Saves Your Holiday (and Your Sanity)
The holidays are here! You’ve got twinkling lights, hot cocoa, and about 500 events to attend and it’s only tuesday. It’s the most wonderful (and chaotic) time of the year. But while you’re busy decking the halls and dodging your Aunt Edna’s super chewy fruitcake, have you considered how insurance fits into your holiday plans? That’s right—insurance might just be the secret weapon for a holly, jolly recovery season. And lucky for you, Wenatchee Insurance (with Shayla, Suzie and Matt leading the charge) is here to save the day.
Christmas Trees, Fires, and Liabilities—Oh My!
You’ve finally found the perfect Douglas Fir tree—big, bold, and ready to impress the neighborhood. After wrestling it into your living room and hanging ornaments with questionable sturdiness, you light it up like the Rockefeller Center. It’s stunning… until your cat, Mr. Whiskerbean, launches himself into it like a snowboarder down Mission Ridge.
Suddenly, your living room is a winter wonderland of shattered ornaments, broken furniture, a toppled tree and you in your bare feet playing Die Hard. What now? If you’ve got homeowner’s insurance (hint: call Shayla at Wenatchee Insurance to double-check), you’re covered! They’ll help you sort out the mess without making you feel like the Grinch. Plus, they’ve probably heard crazier stories—like the guy who deep-fried his turkey indoors.
Ah, the joy of winter roads. You’re driving to Grandma’s house with a SUV full of gifts and the family’s secret cheeseball. But then—BAM!—you hit a patch of ice and find yourself in a not-so-festive fender bender. Now what?
This is where Wenatchee Insurance becomes your holiday hero. With the right auto insurance, you’re covered for those slippery mishaps. Matt will make sure you’re back on the road faster than you can say, “Rudolph with your nose so bright.” And if your holiday travel includes a rental car? Wenatchee Insurance will make sure you’re not paying for someone else’s scratch-and-dent collection.
Holiday Party Fiascos: Liability Coverage Saves the Day
Maybe you’re hosting the annual ugly sweater party. The hard cider is flowing, the eggnog is thick, and then—WHAM!—Farmer Fred slips on the mistletoe you taped to the floor (why?!). He’s fine, but his hip isn’t, and now you’re staring down the barrel of a hospital bill.
Good news: your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance likely includes liability coverage! And if you’re not sure, Shayla can review your policy faster than a holiday sale on ugly sweaters. She’ll make sure you’ve got the right protection so Farmer Fred’s medical bills don’t turn your Christmas savings into a lump of coal.
Why Wenatchee Insurance?
The holidays are unpredictable—trees fall, cars slide, and parties go haywire. But with Wenatchee Insurance on your side, you can navigate the season with a little more confidence and a lot less stress.
Shayla’s brains, Suzie’s compassion and Matt’s no-nonsense approach make insurance feel as cozy as a marshmallow in a cup of hot cocoa. They’ll help you find coverage that fits your life (and your holiday chaos) while adding a touch of humor to the process. Because let’s face it: nothing says “peace on Earth” like knowing you’re properly insured.
So, before you string another light or bake another batch of cookies, give Wenatchee Insurance a call. They’ll make sure your holidays are filled with joy—not claims forms.
Ah, health insurance. It’s like the ultimate adulting test, but instead of a grade, you get co-pays. And if the thought of picking the right health insurance plan makes you feel like you’re trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded, don’t worry—Suzie and Matt at Wenatchee Insurance are here to help. Let’s dive into what every health insurance plan must cover, using examples that prove even the mundane can be hilarious.
1. Doctor Visits: The “Ouch!” Standard
All health insurance plans must cover preventive care, like your annual physical or flu shots. So, when you stub your toe on the coffee table for the fifth time this month, rest assured you’re covered for a doctor visit.
Example: Remember Bob from East Wenatchee? He thought his sore throat was a sign of his budding opera career. Turns out, it was strep. Thankfully, his insurance covered the visit, and Suzie from Wenatchee Insurance helped him pick a plan that didn’t leave him crying in the pharmacy aisle over antibiotic prices.
2. Emergency Services: For When You Really Mess Up
Whether it’s a car accident, a kitchen knife mishap while perfecting your “Chopped” audition, or your kid thinking their LEGO belongs in their nose, emergency services are covered.
Example: Matt once helped a family in Cashmere who needed an ambulance after their teenager attempted a backflip off the barn roof. The good news? Their plan covered it. The bad news? The kid’s TikTok account gained 20,000 followers from the footage.
3. Prescription Drugs: Because Over-the-Counter Isn’t Always Enough
Insurance plans cover a range of medications, so you’re not stuck Googling “natural remedies for gout” in the middle of the night.
Example: One client, Nancy, tried to cure her migraines with a DIY essential oils concoction that ended up attracting bees. Suzie found her a plan that covered real migraine meds—and a bee sting cream just in case.
4. Mental Health Services: Brain Care Counts Too
Every plan covers therapy and mental health treatment. Because sometimes, adulting really is that hard.
Example: Fred, a Wenatchee resident, found himself overwhelmed by his parrot, who had learned to imitate his mother-in-law. Therapy sessions covered by his plan helped him cope (and gave him the courage to teach the bird new phrases).
5. Maternity and Newborn Care: Tiny Humans, Big Bills
Pregnancy care and newborn checkups are a must. And honestly, who doesn’t need a little financial help when baby formula is practically worth its weight in gold?
Example: A couple in Leavenworth came to Matt for help after realizing their baby’s hospital bill rivaled their down payment on a house. With the right plan, they saved enough to afford diapers and pizza delivery during sleepless nights.
6. Preventive Care: Because “An Apple a Day” Isn’t Enough
From cancer screenings to vaccines, your plan’s got you covered here. It’s like insurance for your future self.
Example: Suzie helped a Wenatchee apple farmer find a plan that covered his annual skin cancer screening—important when you’re out in the sun all day naming your trees after your favorite superheroes.
7. Pediatric Care: Kids Break Things (Including Themselves)
From immunizations to vision checks, pediatric care is mandatory. Because it turns out, kids aren’t as indestructible as they think.
Example: Matt once worked with a family whose son mistook a skateboard ramp for a launch pad. Good news: His arm healed. Better news: The family’s plan covered the X-rays and cast.
Suzie and Matt Have You Covered
Navigating health insurance might feel like wandering through a corn maze blindfolded, but that’s where Wenatchee Insurance shines. Whether you need coverage for everyday aches and pains or for those epic fails that deserve a highlight reel, Suzie and Matt are the dynamic duo to guide you.
So, call Wenatchee Insurance today. Because picking the right health plan shouldn’t feel like surgery—just a checkup with friends who know the ropes (and have probably seen it all).
Ah, braces —the rite of passage that every kid (and some adults) in North Central Washington dreads. If you’re wondering whether dental insurance will help you foot the bill for straightening little Dillan’s teeth, you’re in good company. This question comes up all the time at Wenatchee Insurance, especially when people start tallying up the cost of those shiny metal brackets like they were made of gold.
Orthodontic / Braces Coverage Basics
Dental insurance can cover orthodontics, but it’s not always a guarantee. It’s a bit like assuming all apples in Wenatchee taste the same—they don’t! It is tough to eat a Red Delicious from cold storage. Orthodontic coverage depends on your plan, and most plans that do cover it will only do so for kids under 18. The magical phrase is “Medical Necessity” especially if there is an Apple Health Plan in play.
If your parents couldn’t get you braces when you were a kid then there are a couple of individual unicorn plans available. Suzie and Matt went hunting for plans that could be purchased by the individual for this purpose and they have some restrictions.
How Much Is Covered?
If your plan does cover braces, it typically covers a percentage of the total cost—usually around 50%. So, if little Billy’s braces cost $6,000, your insurance might cover $3,000, leaving you to pay the rest. It’s like getting a discount on a family-sized apple pie at the local bakery—not free, but better than full price.
Example
Let’s take young Emma from Omak, who needed braces but didn’t want to look like she had a mouth full of railroad tracks. Her mom found a dental insurance plan that covered clear aligners instead of traditional braces. Now Emma’s teeth are straightening out just in time for high school, and she can smile confidently in all her Instagram pics—no filters required.
At Wenatchee Insurance we have found that exploring some of your options early can have some of the lowest costs for braces. As we get older, it gets a little tough but not impossible for dental insurance to cover orthodontics as adults.
Living in the scenic countryside of North Central Washington comes with its own set of perks and challenges. One thing’s for sure, finding a health insurance plan shouldn’t be one of those challenges. Whether you’re in Wenatchee, Leavenworth, or the far reaches of Okanogan, Wenatchee Insurance is here to guide you through the corn maze of health insurance options with a sprinkle of country humor and a whole lot of experience.
First off, let’s talk about the sheer variety of health insurance plans out there. It’s like walking into a pie contest at the Chelan County Fair – there are many different varieties, and they all look good at first glance. However, not everyone likes Rhubarb or maybe you are allergic to strawberries. Insurance plans need a closer look to see if they fit your needs like Grandma’s Blue Ribbon Apple Pie on a Sunday night.
Imagine our friend Bob from Cashmere. Bob’s as fit as a fiddle, but he’s had a few run-ins with the old John Deere tractor. Last year, he tried to fix a loose bolt without using a wrench and ended up in the ER with a broken toe. Bob needs a plan with emergency coverage and low out-of-pocket costs. During Open Enrollment, Suzie at Wenatchee Insurance helped him find a plan that doesn’t cost his prized pig Wilber but covers those unexpected barnyard mishaps.
Now, let’s say you’re Marge from Chelan, and you’ve got a family to think about. Little Jimmy’s shiny braces, Megan’s allergies, your spouse’s latest, high blood pressure meds – they all keep adding up. You need a plan that covers a wide range of services and has a good network of doctors. Wenatchee Insurance can sort through the options and find a plan that keeps everyone healthy and happy, without driving you to sell the farm.
For our older folks, say you’re Aunt Mildred in Pateros. She’s past the age where she’s wrestling cattle, but she needs regular check-ups and prescription medications. Medicare Advantage plans can be tricky to navigate, but that’s where Suzie shines. Suzie was a pharmacy technician for 20 years and knows how to look through the formularies like they are hairs on the back of her hand. Suzie will find a plan that covers everything from her heart pills to her arthritis cream, ensuring she can enjoy her golden years fishing by the Columbia River.
Choosing the best health insurance plan is a bit like picking the right peach at DeLap’s Fruit Stand– it takes a keen eye and a bit of know-how. You don’t want peaches that are too small or too expensive. With Wenatchee Insurance, you get the local touch and the expertise to pick the plan that fits just right.
So, next time you’re sipping your coffee from Little Red’s Espresso, remember: Wenatchee Insurance is just a call away, ready to help you find the perfect health insurance plan. Because whether you’re mending fences or running the family orchard, you deserve peace of mind knowing you’re covered.
Topics: Health Insurance, Apple Health, Ambetter, Lifewise, Community Health, Wenatchee Insurance, Suzie, Enrollment, Glasses, Contacts, Chelan County, Okanogan, Grant County, Douglas County, 509, Leavenworth
At Wenatchee Insurance Agency, serving the area in and around Wenatchee, WA, we know that navigating flood insurance can be tricky. Many homeowners overlook this crucial coverage due to common misconceptions or incorrect information they hear and believe. Let’s clear up some myths and help you make informed decisions.
Myth 1: Homeowners Insurance Covers Floods
A frequent misunderstanding is that standard homeowners insurance includes flood coverage. Unfortunately, it does not. Flood insurance is a separate policy that specifically covers damage caused by flooding. Understanding this distinction can save you from unexpected expenses.
Myth 2: Only High-Risk Areas Need Flood Insurance
Another misconception is that only homes in high-risk flood zones require insurance. However, floods can happen anywhere. About 25% of flood claims come from low to moderate-risk areas. Assessing your property’s risk with the help of an expert can ensure you’re adequately protected.
Myth 3: You Can Purchase Flood Insurance Anytime
Many people assume they can buy flood insurance whenever they want. However, there’s usually a 30-day waiting period before the policy goes into effect. Planning ahead is essential to ensure you’re covered when you need it most.
Myth 4: Flood Insurance Is Too Expensive
While cost is a concern, flood insurance may be more affordable than you think, especially compared to the potential costs of flood damage. The price varies based on location, coverage, and property details, so it’s worth exploring your options.
Reach Out to Get Flood Insurance or Answers to Your Questions About Flood Insurance
At Wenatchee Insurance Agency, serving the Wenatchee, WA area, we’re here to help you understand your flood insurance needs. Contact us today to discuss your options and ensure your home is protected.
For nearly a decade we have assisted with Health & Medicare Solutions. We are proud to be selected by the Washington Healthplanfinder to be one of ten Enrollment Centers located in Washington State.
