Michigan

I just retired and don’t have life insurance. Can I still get it?

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Life insurance is an often misunderstood form of insurance. Many people know little about how it works and who and when one should get it. We understand this, and our Michigan team at Shield Insurance Agency is dedicated to helping people understand the benefits of life insurance and how it works. 

What is life insurance?

In short, life insurance is like any insurance in that a person enters into a contract to pay a certain fee for a set period so that the person’s named beneficiary receives a lump sum payment once the policyholder passes away. However, other life situations besides death can trigger payments to a beneficiary. Some policies include clauses for terminal or critical illnesses as well. Life insurance can cover burial costs, final expenses, and more. The beneficiary receives a lump sum of money and can use the funds any way they see fit. Life insurance is commonly used to cover estate taxes as well as debt. 

I have just retired and don’t have life insurance. Can I still get it?

Yes. Finding a company that will insure you may be difficult, but it is possible to get life insurance after retirement. Depending on your age, many companies that do insure you will likely only approve a term life possibly instead of a whole life policy. However, you will likely pay more for life insurance as an older person. Typically, older persons who are 80 years of age or older may be rejected for life insurance. This includes term life insurance. If you have questions regarding life insurance, call us. We know that navigation life insurance can be confusing. We’d happily answer your questions and help you explore your options. 

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Thunderstorm Safety Be prepared for thunderstorms and severe weather Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Thunderstorm Safety: Be prepared for thunderstorms and severe weather.

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

The Red Cross | Thunderstorm | Home Insurance | Auto Insurance | Contact Us

Need Help Now?

If you are in immediate need of help, please contact your local Red Cross or find an open shelter. American Red Cross Zeeland, MI · (616) 396-6545

Thunderstorms are dangerous storms with lightning. A lightning strike can kill you. Thunderstorms often bring powerful winds that can knock down trees, power lines, and mobile homes, intense rainfall that causes flash floods, tornadoes, lightning strikes that can spark fires, as well as damaging hail.

But we can take action to prepare. Prepare now to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your home.

What Should You Do Before a Thunderstorm?

Identify a Sturdy Building and Practice Drills

  • You need to get inside a sturdy building before a thunderstorm hits. A sturdy building is a structure with walls and a foundation. Once you have identified a sturdy building, plan to shelter in the basement or a small, interior, windowless room on the lowest level to provide additional protection from high winds. Plan to stay inside until weather forecasts indicate it is safe to leave.
  • Mobile, manufactured, trailer homes, and recreational vehicles (RVs) are not safe in high winds. If you live in one of these structures, you need to identify a sturdy building nearby that you can get to quickly.
  • Practice drills with everyone in your household, so everyone knows where to go and what to do before a thunderstorm hits.

Plan to Stay Connected

  • Sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government.
  • Plan to monitor local weather and news.
  • Have a backup battery or a way to charge your cell phone.
  • In case of a power outage, have a battery-powered radio.
  • Understand the types of alerts that you may receive and have a plan to respond:
    • A WATCH means Be Prepared! 
    • A WARNING means Take Action! 

Learn Emergency Skills to survive a major Thunderstorm

  • Learn First Aid and CPR. 
  • Utilities may be offline. Be prepared to live without power, gas, and water. Plan for your electrical needs, including cell phones and medical equipment.

Protect Your Home during the Thunderstorm

  • Make a list of items outside your home you will need to tie down or put away so that they don’t blow away or fly through a window during high winds. When a High Wind, Severe Thunderstorm, or Tornado Watch, is issued, immediately secure these items to avoid damage or injury once the wind starts picking up.
  • Secure objects that would be unsafe to bring inside, such as gas grills and propane tanks.
  • Trim or remove trees close enough to fall on your home.
  • Keep drains, gutters, and downspouts clean.
  • Find out if your home is prone to flooding. If it is, consider:
    • Installing a sump pump with battery backup.
    • Elevating the heating system, water heater, and electrical panel.
  • Review your home insurance policy. Check to see if you are covered for flood damage.

Click here to Download the Thunderstorm Safety Checklist and read the full article from the Red Cross

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Discover the Added Value of Renter's Insurance in Michigan

Discover the Added Value of Renter’s Insurance in Michigan

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Shield Insurance Blog | Renter’s Insurance | Contact Our Office Today!

If you’re renting an apartment or house in Michigan, you’ve probably considered getting renters insurance. But what exactly does a renters insurance plan in Michigan offer, and how can it benefit you? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the value that comes with having renters insurance in Michigan, and why it’s essential for all renters in the Great Lakes State.

Renter’s Insurance Michigan: Protecting Your Rental Home

Renters insurance in Michigan is designed to protect your personal belongings and provide liability coverage in the event of unexpected disasters or accidents. Whether you’re renting a downtown apartment in Detroit or a cozy house in Ann Arbor, renters insurance offers valuable protection for your possessions and peace of mind for you as a tenant.

Rental Insurance Value: Safeguarding Your Assets

One of the significant benefits of having renters insurance in Michigan is the protection it provides for your personal property. From furniture and electronics to clothing and jewelry, your belongings are safeguarded against perils such as fire, theft, vandalism, and more. With the right insurance plan, you can rest easy knowing that your valuables are covered.

Michigan Insurance Plan: Coverage Tailored to Your Needs

When it comes to renters insurance, Michigan residents have access to a wide range of coverage options to suit their individual needs. Whether you’re looking for basic coverage or additional protection for high-value items, there’s a Michigan insurance plan that can be tailored to provide the right level of security for your belongings.

Rental Policy Michigan: Understanding Your Coverage

Understanding the specifics of your rental policy in Michigan is crucial to ensuring you have the right level of protection. Your policy may include coverage for additional living expenses if your rental becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss, as well as liability coverage in case someone is injured while visiting your rental property.

Renter Protection Michigan: Peace of Mind for Tenants

Renters insurance in Michigan doesn’t just protect your belongings; it also offers liability coverage, which can help shield you from financial responsibility if you accidentally cause damage to your rental or injure someone while on the property. This added protection provides peace of mind for tenants, knowing that they have a safety net in place.

Renter’s Insurance Coverage: Maximizing Your Security

With the right renters insurance coverage, Michigan renters can maximize their security and minimize financial risks. From protecting your assets to providing liability coverage, a comprehensive renters insurance plan offers a robust safety net, giving you the confidence to enjoy your rental home without worrying about unexpected mishaps.

Michigan Rental Policy Benefits: Why Renter’s Insurance Matters

The benefits of having renters insurance in Michigan extend far beyond just protecting your belongings. It’s a valuable tool that can provide financial security and peace of mind, offering benefits such as coverage for additional living expenses, liability protection, and more. By understanding the benefits of a Michigan rental policy, you can make an informed decision about securing the right coverage for your rental home.

Whether you’re renting in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, or any other city in Michigan, having the right renter’s insurance plan is crucial for safeguarding your assets and protecting yourself from unexpected liabilities. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 45 insurance companies and can help you find the perfect renter’s insurance plan tailored to your needs. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon.

In conclusion, renters insurance in Michigan offers valuable protection for tenants, ensuring that you’re covered in the event of unforeseen circumstances. By understanding the value, coverage, and benefits that come with a renters insurance plan, you can make an informed decision to secure your rental home and enjoy greater peace of mind.

Visit the Shield Insurance Blog!

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Shield Insurance’s Roadmap to RV Insurance in Michigan: What You Need to Know

Shield Insurance’s Roadmap to RV Insurance in Michigan: What You Need to Know

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Shield Insurance Agency Blog | RV Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

At Shield Insurance Agency, we effectively educate Michigan residents about RV insurance policies. These policies may seem daunting, but decoding them isn’t as hard as it might appear. This guide will help simplify RV insurance so you can make the best possible decision.

RV Insurance: Differentiating Between Part-Time and Full-Time

One common pitfall among RV owners is the failure to distinguish between a full-time and a part-time RV usage policy. Getting this right will ensure your policy adequately caters to your specific needs.

Special Considerations for Self-Built RVs

If you’ve constructed your own RV, be aware that it poses different issues for insurance companies. Self-built vehicles typically have additional insurance concerns and may not be as straightforward to insure as standard RVs. It’s important to bear this in mind when deliberating over potential modifications to your RV.

Importance of RV Insurance Emergency Expense Coverage

Emergency expenses are a vital consideration for any RV policy. Emergency coverage should be top of mind whether you use your RV full-time or part-time and whatever belongings you need to insure. This type of coverage will offer you the security of being prepared for any unexpected expenses that may come up.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we are eager to answer all your questions about RV insurance policies. Michigan RV owners are invited to call or visit us anytime to learn more. We’re here to assist with your RV insurance needs, enabling you to hit the road confidently.

Give us a call or stop by our home office at 3214 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, MI 49426 Our phone is 616-896-4600 or you can fax your current policy to us at 616-896-4601. And of course, we can be reached via email at ContactUs@shieldagency.com

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Pizza Shop Goes Viral After Putting Up ‘Now Hiring Non-Stupid People’ Sign

Pizza Shop Goes Viral After Putting Up ‘Now Hiring Non-Stupid People’ Sign

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Complex.com | Feb 22, 2023 | Now Hiring Non-Stupid People | Shield Insurance, is now hiring Smart People

The sign made its first appearance outside the Ohio pizza shop several months ago. The attention on it, however, has now grown to a national level.

A pizza shop in Ohio has successfully sliced its way to virality thanks to the specificity with which it announced it was seeking new employees.

‘Now Hiring Non-Stupid People’ Response is Largely Positive

The shop in question is Santino’s Pizzeria in the Columbus area, while the sign in question reads, simply, “Now hiring non-stupid people.” Per a report from WSYX, the local in-person response to the viral sign has been largely positive. One person, however, responded to the sign’s presence by calling in a fake order totaling more than $100.

Over on the shop’s Facebook page, owners confirmed they ultimately donated the pizzas made for the prank order to a nearby homeless shelter. In the comments section of several posts, some spoke kindly about the “non-stupid people” signage while others criticized the establishment. 

‘Now Hiring Non-Stupid People’ sign intended to be ajoke

Speaking with WBNS over the weekend, Heather Stockton—a manager at the shop—explained that the sign was “supposed to be a joke” in response to what she described as employment struggles. According to that report, the sign was initially posted several months ago, although its nationwide virality didn’t kick in until more recently.

“Instead of judging our signs, why don’t you come judge our pizzas?” Stockton said, adding that the shop’s pizza offerings are of the “really good” variety.

Complex has reached out to the shop for additional comment. This story may be updated.

This isn’t the first time this exact sign, albeit for a different business, has slide its way into headlines. A “now hiring non-stupid people” sign previously spurred a similar reaction after being posted outside the Pets Gone Wild Resort in Texas last October.

Click here to read ‘Now Hiring Non-Stupid People’…

Shield Insurance is now hiring, ContactUs@ShieldAgency.com for details and get to know our staff.

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NFL fans who went to -20C game attended by Taylor Swift 'underwent amputations after suffering frostbite'

NFL fans ‘underwent amputations after suffering frostbite’

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | March 11 2024 | NFL Fans | Start an Insurance Quote Today!

NFL fans who went to -20C game attended by Taylor Swift ‘underwent amputations after suffering frostbite’

The football fans were among dozens of people across Kansas City who had to be treated for frostbite due to an 11-day cold snap at the beginning of the year. Taylor Swift was also at the match, supporting her boyfriend – but avoided the worst of the cold.

At least “some” NFL fans who attended a near-record cold game in Kansas City suffered extreme frostbite and had to undergo amputations, doctors have revealed.

Spectators braved -20C (-4F) temperatures to watch the Kansas City Chiefs host the Miami Dolphins at Arrowhead Stadium in the AFC wildcard round back on 13 January.

The wind chill – what the temperature feels like to the human body – dipped as low as -33C (-27F).

As a result, some fans were treated for frostbite, which causes damage to the skin and tissue, particularly extremities such as fingers and toes, after exposure to freezing temperatures.

The Research Medical Centre in Kansas said it had treated dozens of people who had experienced frostbite during an 11-day cold snap at the beginning of the year.

Twelve of those people, including some who were at the football game, had to undergo amputations involving mostly fingers and toes.

The centre said it was expecting to carry out more surgeries over the next few weeks as “injuries evolve”.

Christine Hamele, associate vice president of HCA Midwest Health, which operates seven hospitals, including the Research Medical Centre and its Grossman Burn Centre, said: “To date, 12 patients have undergone amputation surgeries, some of which attended the Chiefs game.

“Our specialised physicians and expert care team continue to treat and monitor patients’ healing to address long-term needs, and we expect more surgical procedures over the next two to four weeks as their injuries evolve.”

Click here for the full story…

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Various storage sites may have different security levels and exposure to risks such as theft, vandalism, or weather-induced damage.

What Type of Boat Insurance Do You Need If You’re Just Storing Your Boat?

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Shield Insurance Blog | Boat Insurance | Contact an Agent Today! | Visit the Quoting Portal

Understanding Boat Insurance for Stored Boats in Michigan

Whether your boat is in off-season storage or not actively in use for extended periods, maintaining insurance coverage to guard your valuable asset against possible risks is critical. Shield Insurance Agency in Michigan acknowledges the importance of securing your boat—even when it’s docked. Below, we provide insight into boat insurance for stored boats.

The Importance of Storage Location

Your chosen boat storage location can influence the kind of insurance coverage you require. Whether you park it in a marina, storage facility, or your own garage, guaranteeing the right coverage is crucial. Various storage sites may have different security levels and exposure to risks such as theft, vandalism, or weather-induced damage.

Comprehensive Boat Insurance Coverage for Added Peace of Mind

Comprehensive boat insurance offers coverage for a wide assortment of risks, including theft, vandalism, fire, storms, and natural catastrophes. Even a stored boat remains vulnerable to damage from unexpected incidents. Comprehensive coverage ensures you’re financially secure against unforeseen events that may harm or destroy your boat.

The Need for Liability Protection

Liability coverage presents another critical component of boat insurance, irrespective of whether your boat is in storage or use. Liability protection covers costs connected to property damage or bodily injury for which you may be liable while operating your boat or if an individual is injured on your stored boat.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency

At Shield Insurance Agency, we’re dedicated to helping Michigan boat owners shelter their investments with thorough insurance coverage. Our seasoned agents will work closely with you to understand your needs, explore coverage options, and customize a policy offering peace of mind at sea or in storage. Reach out to us for your boat insurance consultation.

 

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Flood insurance ☔ the ultimate safeguard for your home - here's why you shouldn't ignore it!

Flood insurance ☔ the ultimate safeguard for your home – here’s why you shouldn’t ignore it!

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Agency Blog | Flood Insurance | Contact our office for details!

When it comes to protecting your home and ensuring your financial security, there are many factors to consider. One of the most important aspects of this is having the right insurance coverage in place. While homeowners insurance is a common requirement for most homeowners, there is one type of coverage that often gets overlooked – flood insurance.

Disaster preparedness and emergency planning are crucial for any homeowner. Natural disasters can strike at any time, and being prepared can make all the difference in minimizing damage and ensuring the safety of your loved ones. While many people associate natural disasters with events like hurricanes or earthquakes, one of the most common and destructive disasters is flooding.

Flood damage can be devastating, causing extensive property damage and financial loss. Without the proper insurance coverage, homeowners may find themselves facing significant repair costs and the burden of rebuilding their lives. This is where flood insurance comes into play.

Flood insurance is a specialized type of coverage that protects homeowners from the financial impact of flood damage. It provides coverage for both the structure of your home and its contents, ensuring that you are protected in the event of a flood. While homeowners insurance may cover some types of water damage, it typically does not cover flood damage.

Flood prevention and protection are essential, but it is important to understand that no amount of preparation can completely eliminate the risk of flooding. Even if you live in an area with a low flood risk, it is still wise to consider flood insurance. Flooding can occur due to a variety of factors, including heavy rainfall, melting snow, or even a burst pipe. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your home and your financial security.

Homeowners insurance is designed to protect your property from a wide range of risks, but it does not typically include flood coverage. This means that without flood insurance, you may be left to bear the financial burden of flood damage on your own. This can be a significant blow to your financial security and can leave you struggling to recover from the aftermath of a flood.

Property damage is not the only concern when it comes to flooding. The emotional toll of losing your home and belongings can be overwhelming. Having flood insurance in place can provide peace of mind, knowing that you have the financial resources to rebuild and replace what has been lost.

Risk management is an important aspect of protecting your home and your financial security. By investing in flood insurance, you are taking proactive steps to mitigate the risk of flood damage. This can help you avoid the financial devastation that can occur in the aftermath of a flood and ensure that you are able to recover and rebuild.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we understand the importance of having the right insurance coverage in place. That’s why we represent over 40 insurance companies, allowing us to find the best coverage options for our clients. Whether you are in need of flood insurance, homeowners insurance, or any other type of coverage, our experienced agents are here to help.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon. We are committed to helping you protect your home, your belongings, and your financial security. Don’t wait until it’s too late – invest in flood insurance and ensure that you are prepared for whatever comes your way.

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Passenger crochets beanie for a mesmerized baby on an airplane

Passenger crochets beanie for a mesmerized baby on an airplane

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

GoodnewsNetwork | Andy Corbley | Jan 22, 2024 | crochets beanie | Travel Insurance |

Stranger on Airplane Quickly Crochets Beanie for Baby Mesmerized by the Yarn in Motion Across the Aisle

Kelly and Jake were nervous about taking their 5-month-old daughter on an airplane, as most new parents would be. Flying from New Jersey to Mexico isn’t a short haul, and they weren’t sure what to expect.

But it was on the flight home that the unexpected arose, when little Romey was calmly fascinated by the woman across the aisle who was crocheting—her hands constantly moving was transfixing the tot.

The crocheter, Meegan Rubin, noticed the baby watching her, and also realized the yarn she was using for her project matched the little girl’s outfit. With an hour left on the flight, she decided to make a beanie for Romey, and surprised the family with the hat once they landed.

Captured and summarized by the mom on her TikTok account, it went viral and has racked up almost 8 million views to date.

Passenger Quickly Crochets Beanie

“Never seen someone work so fast in my life. I had no idea it was for us,” the Mom recalled to Good Morning America. “What a cool way to just do something nice for a stranger,’ and in turn, light up everyone else’s day.”

Kelly and Jake were nervous about taking their 5-month-old daughter on an airplane, as most new parents would be. Flying from New Jersey to Mexico isn’t a short haul, and they weren’t sure what to expect.

But it was on the flight home that the unexpected arose, when little Romey was calmly fascinated by the woman across the aisle who was crocheting—her hands constantly moving was transfixing the tot.

The crocheter, Meegan Rubin, noticed the baby watching her, and also realized the yarn she was using for her project matched the little girl’s outfit. With an hour left on the flight, she decided to make a beanie for Romey, and surprised the family with the hat once they landed.

Captured and summarized by the mom on her TikTok account, it went viral and has racked up almost 8 million views to date.

“Never seen someone work so fast in my life. I had no idea it was for us,” the Mom recalled to Good Morning America. “What a cool way to just do something nice for a stranger,’ and in turn, light up everyone else’s day.”

Watch the video here

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How To Get The Most Out Of An Umbrella Policy

How To Get The Most Out Of An Umbrella Policy

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Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Umbrella Policy | Start A Quote Today! | Contact Shield Office

When you own a home as well as one or more vehicles, there are different insurance policies that you need for them. These policies are highly important for protecting what are likely your largest investments. However, having home and auto insurance policies may not be enough. You may need to get an umbrella policy to augment them both. This type of insurance does a lot for you, and one of those things is to save you money. To get started with an umbrella policy, call us at Shield Insurance Agency in Michigan.

Umbrella Policy is a Cost-Effective Insurance

You pay for both your home and auto insurance policies. Each of these comes with a set amount of coverage, including liability coverage. If you want more liability coverage to protect yourself better against serious accidents, you can always add more of it to both your home and auto policies. Of course, this can be highly expensive, especially if you want a lot of coverage. It costs far less to simply get an umbrella policy. Umbrella insurance adds to both your home and auto policies so that you don’t have to add to each of them individually. It also comes with an enormous coverage amount for a low price. It’s a great way to save money while staying well-protected. 

An Umbrella Policy Provides Financial Protection

The protection that you get from umbrella insurance can save you money in other ways. If an accident happens and the home or auto policy comes in to pay for it, it may not be able to pay all of the bills. Those would be up to you to pay if not for an umbrella policy. An umbrella policy would come in next to pay the leftover bills. 

Get Umbrella Insurance

When you want to save money while having the insurance you need, call us at Shield Insurance Agency in Michigan.

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