Insurance

Are Secret Discounts Available for Home or Bundling Policies?

Posted on by Matt McColm

Unlocking the Secret Discounts

Wenatchee insurance bundling Health insurance, Medicare, Life, Car, Home in for secret discounts

Shh… Can you keep a secret? Wenatchee Insurance has secret discounts that can save you big bucks on your home insurance. It doesn’t always have to be with the same company or type of insurance! Let’s embark on a treasure hunt to uncover these elusive savings.

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The Safe Home Bonus Installing safety features in your home is like finding a hidden stash of gold coins. Smoke detectors, alarm systems, and deadbolt locks can earn you discounts. Your home becomes a fortress, and you fend off the inflation bandits for the year.

The Golden Parachute of Savings. Keep your receipts, if you have a roof that is less than ten years old then you could be entitled to some savings. Age plays a tremendous role for underwriters being able to cover your home.

The Bundling Bonanza Why stop at home insurance when you can bundle with auto insurance and save even more? It’s like finding a two-for-one deal at your favorite store. Bundle your policies with Wenatchee Insurance. Some companies allow us a discount if you have a Health or Medicare policy with us.

The Claim-Free Treasure Been a good sailor with no claims? Wenatchee Insurance rewards you for smooth sailing. The longer you go without filing a claim, the more you save. Boring is better when it comes to pleasing the underwriters.

The Loyalty Loot Sticking with Wenatchee Insurance pays off. Loyal customers often receive discounts just for being awesome and staying with the same insurer. It’s like getting a thank-you gift for being part of the family.

So, grab your treasure map and start hunting for those hidden discounts with Wenatchee Insurance. Your savings adventure awaits!

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Topics: Wenatchee Insurance, Deductible, Home Insurance, Bundle, Chelan, Fire, Okanogan, Grant, Medicare, health, Wind, Liability, Cheap Insurance, independent insurance broker,

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What Are Medicare Advantage Plans?

Posted on by Matt McColm
medicare advantage mutlitool of health

Greetings, Wenatchee Insurance aficionados from Mission Street! Today, Suzie is shining a light on the mystery of Medicare Advantage Plans, also known as Part C. Think of these plans as the Renaissance Man of the Medicare world, combining various benefits into one convenient bundle.

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Medicare Advantage: The Healthcare Multi-tool

Medicare Advantage Plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans include all the benefits of Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance), and may also include Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage). A Medicare Advantage plan is like a subcontractor. They come in and replace your Part A & B coverages and add different benefits.

While they have undergone changes through the years, Private plans have been around since the beginning of Medicare in 1966. Medicare Advantage plans must cover all medically necessary services that Original Medicare Covers.

Example Time!

Imagine Mary Jo retires and wants to simplify. Instead of juggling separate plans, she opts for a Medicare Advantage Plan that places everything in a convenient package. Mary Jo now has more time to enjoy gardening and less time digging through the different health insurance options.

Medicare Advantage senior in the flowers

Extra Perks: More Than Just Basics

Medicare Advantage Plans often offer additional benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, such as:

  • Vision care: Routine eye exams and glasses
  • Dental care: Cleanings, x-rays, and dentures
  • Hearing care: Hearing exams and hearing aids
  • Wellness programs: Gym memberships, fitness classes, and more

Medicare Advantage plans vary by company and some cases by zip code so it is important to review the benefits based on your address.

Example Time!

Meet Jimmy, an avid cyclist and fitness enthusiast. His Medicare Advantage Plan includes a fitness program, giving him access to numerous gyms and fitness classes at no extra cost. Jimmy’s cycling buddy Fred in a neighboring state has the same company but his plan does not include the fitness program. Jimmy learned about the fitness plan benefits by carefully reviewing the Medicare Advantage plan materials.

Medicare Advantage Senior using benifits

Choosing the Right Plan

Selecting the perfect Medicare Advantage Plan can feel like choosing the right flowers for your garden– so many options! Here are some factors to consider:

  • Network: Check if your preferred doctors and hospitals are in-network.
  • Costs: Compare premiums, deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums.
  • Coverage: Ensure the plan covers your medications and any extra benefits you need.
  • Ratings: Look at the plan’s star ratings to gauge its quality and performance.

Example Time!

Consider Jane, who needs regular medication for a chronic condition. She carefully reviews different Medicare Advantage Plans to find one that covers her prescriptions and includes her trusted healthcare providers. With Suzie @ Wenatchee Insurance’s help, Jane selects a plan that fits her needs.

Suzie @ Wenatchee Insurance has been assisting people with Medicare for over ten years.

Navigating the variety of Medicare Advantage Plans can be tricky, but that’s where Wenatchee Insurance can lend a hand. Our trained agents are here to guide you through the options, explain the benefits, and assist you in making an educated decision on which plan is right for you.

Remember, folks, understanding Medicare Advantage doesn’t have to be underwater basket weaving. You’ll find a great plan in no time with Wenatchee Insurance by your side. Stay tuned for more insights and tips!

appointment with Suzie
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Topics: Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Suzie, Wenatchee Insurance, SSDI, ESRD, Hospital Insurance, Prescription Drug Coverage, Part D, Medical Insurance, Disability,

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How Is the Value of My Home and Personal Property Determined?

Posted on by Matt McColm
Family home insurance washington state

The Home Insurance Price Is Right!

Welcome to “The Home Insurance Price Is Right!” where you don’t have to guess the price, but you do need to understand how it’s determined. Let’s dive into the thrilling world of replacement costs and actual cash value with Wenatchee Insurance.

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They don’t teach us the difference between Replacement Cost and Actual Cash value in High School nor when you were home eating crackers and sipping tea. We like to go over it because we don’t like surprised clients.

Replacement Cost: The High Roller’s Choice Imagine winning a fabulous new dining room set on our show. Replacement cost coverage means you get a brand-new version of your old stuff. No depreciation here, folks! It’s all shiny and new, just like the day you bought it.

Actual Cash Value: The Bargain Hunter’s Delight For those who love a good deal, actual cash value coverage considers depreciation. It’s like buying a gently used couch from a thrift store – still great, but not quite brand new. Your payout reflects the current market value of your items.

Sometimes Actual Cash Value is the only option available. It is worth the conversation if you see this valuation on your home owner’s policy.

Spin the Wheel of Claims! When it’s time to file a claim, Wenatchee Insurance uses their magical wheel (or more likely, some sophisticated calculations) to determine the value of your home and belongings. Don’t worry, they’re experts at making sure you get the right amount.

So, come on down to Wenatchee Insurance and find out how much your home and personal property are worth. It’s always a win when you’re properly covered!

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Finding Medicare Advantage Plans with Suzie at Wenatchee Insurance

Posted on by Matt McColm
assistance in understanding and enrolling with Medicare with Suzie

Mary, a resident of North Central Washington, was approaching her 65th birthday and wanted to select a Medicare Advantage plan. She was overwhelmed by the numerous options and unsure how to compare them. She decided to contact Suzie at Wenatchee Insurance for guidance.

talk with Suzie

Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C, offer an alternative to Original Medicare. These plans are provided by private insurance companies and often include additional benefits like vision, dental, and prescription drug coverage. Each plan is rated based on preventive care, management of chronic conditions, member experiences, and customer service.

Mary’s Experience

When Mary contacted Wenatchee Insurance, an Suzie helped her understand the different plans available in her area. They discussed the star ratings of various plans and compared their benefits. Mary learned about the top-rated plans and how they cater to specific healthcare needs.

Choosing the Right Plan

With the Suzie’s help, Mary selected a Medicare Advantage plan that was highly rated and included comprehensive benefits suited to her health requirements. Wenatchee Insurance made the process straightforward by providing clear comparisons and expert advice.

Mary was relieved to have found a plan that offered excellent coverage and fit her budget, thanks to the assistance from Wenatchee Insurance.

appointment with Suzie
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Managing Medicare Supplement Costs with Suzie and Wenatchee Insurance

Posted on by Matt McColm

Mary, concerned about out-of-pocket costs not covered by Medicare, was exploring Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) plans. She needed help understanding the costs and benefits of these plans. Mary sought advice from Suzie at Wenatchee Insurance.

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The Role of Medigap Plans

Medigap plans help cover costs like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles that Original Medicare does not cover. Plan G is among the most popular Medigap plans, offering extensive coverage but varying in premium costs by state.

Mary’s Consultation

Mary met with a Suzie at Wenatchee Insurance who explained the different Medigap plans and their costs. They reviewed the benefits of Plan G and other available options, taking into account Mary’s healthcare needs and budget.

Making an Informed Medigap Plan choice

With detailed information from Wenatchee Insurance, Mary chose a Medigap Plan G that provided comprehensive coverage at a reasonable premium. The agent also helped her understand how to manage her monthly premiums effectively.

Mary felt confident in her decision, knowing she had chosen a plan that would protect her from high out-of-pocket expenses, all thanks to the expert guidance from Wenatchee Insurance.

Medicare Supplement plan can be selected year round

When the Medicare Supplement plan increased in cost, Mary was able to talk with Suzie and switch to a lower priced plan. This would reduce inflation for years to come.

Along with the Medigap Plan

Mary selected a Medicare Plan D to cover prescriptions. While she didn’t have many prescriptions now, this prevented a late enrollment penalty and could be changed during the Annual Open Enrollment Period (October 15th through December 7th).

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We love our senior insurance customers
Why be boring, life is short.
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Toothaches are no joke, let’s find good dental insurance

Posted on by Matt McColm

Wenatchee Insurance, we work with a variety of companies to find which plan works best for the client. Some have waiting periods which is why we like to review plans with clients before they buy them.

appointment with Suzie

Dental insurance works kind of like having a quirky best friend who sometimes covers your tab and other times makes you pay your own way. Let’s break it down:

Types of Dental Insurance Plans

  1. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)
    • Description: Imagine you have a favorite pizza place, but you sometimes cheat with other pizzerias. PPOs let you see any dentist, but you save more if you stick with the plan’s favorite pizza… er, dentist.
    • Pros: More freedom to cheat on your dentist.
    • Cons: Your wallet might feel the betrayal if you go out-of-network.
  2. Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)
    • Description: This is like having a strict diet plan where you can only eat at certain places. HMOs make you stay within the network, or else!
    • Pros: Your wallet stays on a strict diet.
    • Cons: Less freedom to indulge in dental decadence.

Coverage Categories

Dental insurance likes to categorize things because, apparently, it’s very organized. Here’s the scoop:

  1. Preventive Care
    • Examples: Routine exams, cleanings, X-rays.
    • Coverage: 100% covered because who doesn’t like free stuff?
  2. Basic Procedures
    • Examples: Fillings, extractions, periodontal treatment.
    • Coverage: They’ll cover 70-80%, which means you’re still paying a bit, but hey, it’s better than footing the whole bill.
  3. Major Procedures
    • Examples: Crowns, bridges, dentures.
    • Coverage: Only 50%, because apparently major procedures are the fancy, designer shoes of the dental world.

Key Features

  1. Premiums
    • Description: The monthly or annual fee you pay just to be part of this exclusive dental club. Think of it as your ticket to the show.
  2. Deductibles
    • Description: The amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance says, “Okay, now I’ll help.” It’s like having to eat your veggies before getting dessert.
  3. Copayments and Coinsurance
    • Description: Your share of the costs for covered services. It’s like going Dutch on a date – you both chip in.
  4. Annual Maximum
    • Description: The max amount the insurance will pay in a year. Once you hit that, it’s like the insurance saying, “I’m tapped out, buddy. You’re on your own.”
  5. Waiting Periods
    • Description: The time you have to wait before certain procedures are covered. It’s like a countdown to Christmas, but less exciting.
  6. Network Restrictions
    • Description: Some plans require you to use specific dentists. It’s like only being allowed to shop at one store for all your dental goodies.
Suzie appointment

Example Dental Insurance Scenario

Let’s say you have a PPO plan with:

  • A $50 deductible (the price of admission).
  • 100/80/50 coverage (the friend who’s sometimes generous).
  • And a $1,500 annual maximum (the friend who’s great until they run out of cash).

For a routine cleaning:

  • Cost: $100
  • You pay: $0 (because preventive care is like the free bread at a restaurant).

For a filling:

  • Cost: $200
  • You pay: $40 (20% coinsurance after the deductible, like tipping the waiter).

For a crown:

  • Cost: $1,000
  • You pay: $500 (50% coinsurance, because crowns are fancy).

So, there you have it. Dental insurance is like having a sometimes generous, sometimes stingy friend who helps you out with dental bills but also makes you chip in and follow some quirky rules. Enjoy the ride, and may your teeth be ever shiny!

We can add dental insurance year round at Wenatchee Insurance.

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What in the heck is Full Coverage Car Insurance?

Posted on by Matt McColm
Wenatchee Insurance Car Full Coverage

When we talk about “full coverage” car insurance at Wenatchee Insurance, we mean a bundle of insurance types that provides greater protection for your car.

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Here’s what full coverages usually includes:

Liability Insurance: This is a must-have. It pays for any damage or injuries you cause to others if you’re responsible for an accident. Washington State requires a minimal amount so you may want more to be safe.  

Collision Insurance: This part covers damage to your car if you get into an accident, no matter who caused it. It’s usually required by the bank if you still owe money on your car because it helps fix or replace it. Pay attention to any deductible.

Comprehensive Insurance: This covers other types of damage to your car not caused by an accident. Mean people, dumb animals and acts God. For example: If your neighbors’ pitbull chews off your tire then you have coverage. Pay attention to any deductible.

SUV full coverage car not bullet proof

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection: This helps cover costs if another driver causes an accident and doesn’t have enough insurance (or any at all) to pay for the damage to you or your car. With 1 in 5 drivers in Washington state not having insurance, this can be incredibly handy.

Additional full coverage information:

Banks and other places that lend money for cars often require you to have all these types of insurance. They do this to protect their investment in your car while you’re still paying it off. It makes sure your car stays in good shape and keeps its value as long as you owe money on it. This setup keeps both you and the lender secure until you finish paying for your car.

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If you are expecting your transmission to be repaired when breaks down, your laptop replaced after being stolen from your trunk, or your after-market parts replaced when not listed on your policy then you are going to be upset because those require other than full coverage. Let’s talk.

auto insurance couple luxury car
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How do I get insurance for my vacant property in Chelan county?

Posted on by Matt McColm
vacant property has higher risks for insurance
appointment with Shayla

Insuring a vacant property can be riskier and more complicated than insuring one that’s occupied. Here are simplified risks and some examples:

  1. Vandalism and Theft: Vacant properties are often targets for vandalism, like graffiti or broken windows, and theft of things like copper pipes.

Example: How many times have you heard of farm equipment being stolen?

  1. Undetected Damage: Problems like water leaks or mold might not be noticed quickly in a vacant property, leading to worse damage.

Example: Your Airbnb cabin not renting for a few weeks? What happens if a pipe freezes and breaks, and it is not checked on in a few weeks?

  1. Fire Hazards: An empty property might be at higher risk for fires due to outdated wiring or even arson.

Example: An electrical fault in an abandoned building could start a fire.

  1. Liability Issues: If someone gets injured on the property, like a trespasser or a child playing, the owner might be responsible.

Example: A child trespassing to explore an empty house gets hurt, and the property owner is held liable. This includes the abandoned mines scattered about the hills.

  1. Weather Damage: Without regular upkeep, vacant properties are more vulnerable to damage from storms or cold weather.
  2. Insurance Challenges: It can be harder and more expensive to get insurance for a vacant property, and the coverage might be limited.
  3. Squatters: Empty properties might attract squatters, leading to legal issues.

Example: Someone might start living in an abandoned property illegally, and the owner has to go through a legal process to evict them.

In short, vacant properties face risks like damage, theft, and legal issues due to their lack of regular occupancy and maintenance. Owners should secure and check these properties regularly and ensure they have the right insurance coverage.

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simple process for insurance
Wenatchee Insurance simple process

Topics: Vacant Property Insurance, squatters, liability, Chelan County, wenatchee insurance, Okanogan County, Mine, squatter, arson, independent insurance agent, Airbnb,

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Local insurance agents helps out in Central Washington

Posted on by Matt McColm

We have a lot of fun around Wenatchee insurance. Let’s add a humorous twist to the importance of a local independent insurance agent from Chelan County:

  1. Knows Your Neighbors Better Than You Do: Your Wenatchee insurance agent is like the neighborhood gossip guru but for insurance. They know everyone’s business – in a good way! Need to know if Mrs. Johnson’s cat really did cause that tree to fall? They’re on it.
  2. Weather Wizard: They have an uncanny ability to predict local weather risks. It’s like they have a sixth sense for when the next big hailstorm will hit Wenatchee, saving you from the dreaded ‘hail-dented car’ look.
  3. Apple Insurance Expert: In Wenatchee, the apple capital of the world, they’re not just insurance experts; they’re apple insurance connoisseurs. They’ll insure your apples, apple trees, and even your apple pies!
insurance agents can help you find coverage

4. Mountain Man/Woman Vibes: Living in the gateway to the Cascades, they know all about insuring your hiking gear, bear-proofing your camping insurance, and making sure your mountain bike is covered, even if you’re just riding it to the local coffee shop.

5. Coffee-Spilling Coverages: They understand the local habit of sipping coffee non-stop. Spilled coffee on your laptop? They’ve got a policy for that.

6. Personalized Service with a Smile (and Maybe a Pie): They’re so friendly that every policy discussion could end with a smile and a shared recipe for the best apple pie in Wenatchee.

7. Bigfoot Coverage?: Only in Wenatchee would your insurance agent seriously discuss coverage options for a Bigfoot sighting on your property. Just in case, right?

In short, a local independent insurance agent from Wenatchee isn’t just an expert in policies; they’re an integral, quirky part of the community fabric, blending local charm with professional expertise – and possibly holding the secret recipe to the perfect apple pie! 🍎🥧

Topic: Wenatchee Insurance, Lake Wenatchee, Entiat, Chelan, local agent,

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Top 5 things that Seniors look for a local insurance agent in NCW

Posted on by Matt McColm

We love our Seniors from Suzie assisting with Medicare plans to Shayla finding discounts on home and auto. It’s why we have a friendly office that is easily accessible off Mission Street.

appointment with Suzie

Top Five Reasons for Seniors

Age Is Just a Number, Especially When Forgetting Yours: Find an agent who doesn’t just offer senior policies, but also reminds you of your age – preferably someone who celebrates your “29th” birthday with you, annually. We love you checking in, reviewing policies and shopping.

Seniors like different things including donuts with sprinkles

Experience in Senior Discounts, Including Early Bird Specials: An agent who knows the ins and outs of senior discounts is a gem. Bonus points if they can also guide you to the best early bird specials in town. (We like Shakti’s).

A Walking, Talking Medical Dictionary: You want an agent who understands senior health plans better than they understand their grandchildren’s slang. If they can explain your policy options without needing a nap afterward, you’ve struck gold. (As a former pharmacy technician, Suzie can spell Ozempic in her sleep).

Technologically Savvy, But Not Too Savvy: Look for someone who’s tech-savvy enough to email you your policy but still prints out directions from Google Maps. By using an appointment app, it gives us more time to chat.

The Patience of a Saint: This agent doesn’t just have patience; they have the kind of zen-like calm that could rival a tortoise in meditation. They’ll explain the fine print so many times, even your forgetful cousin could recite it.

Remember, finding the right insurance agent should be as satisfying as finding that last piece of candy at the bottom of your purse – a delightful surprise that makes your day just a bit sweeter!

appointment with Suzie

Topics: Senior, independent insurance agent, Medicare, Care insurance discounts, Early Bird Special, Wenatchee Insurance

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