The History of Memorial Day

The History of Memorial Day

HISTORY.COM | APRIL 20, 2023 | Memorial Day | Shield Insurance Agency | Start A Quote Today!

The Birthplace of Memorial Day and Early Observances

The Civil War, which ended in the spring of 1865, claimed more lives than any conflict
in U.S. history and required the establishment of the country’s first national
cemeteries.

By the late 1860s, Americans in various towns and cities had begun holding
springtime tributes to these countless fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with
flowers and reciting prayers.

It is unclear where exactly this tradition originated; numerous different communities
may have independently initiated the memorial gatherings. And some records show
that one of the earliest Memorial Day commemorations was organized by a group of
formerly enslaved people in Charleston, South Carolina less than a month after the
Confederacy surrendered in 1865. Nevertheless, in 1966 the federal government
declared Waterloo, New York, the official birthplace of Memorial Day.

Waterloo—which first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866—was chosen because it
hosted an annual, community-wide event, during which businesses closed and
residents decorated the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags.

Did you know? Each year on Memorial Day a national moment of remembrance takes place at 3:00 p.m. local time.

Decoration Day

On May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan, leader of an organization for Northern Civil War veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance later that month. “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land,” he proclaimed.

The date of Decoration Day, as he called it, was chosen because it wasn’t the anniversary of any particular battle.

On the first Decoration Day, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, and 5,000 participants decorated the graves of the 20,000 Civil War soldiers buried there.

Many Northern states held similar commemorative events and reprised the tradition in subsequent years; by 1890 each one had made Decoration Day an official state holiday. Southern states, on the other hand, continued to honor the dead on separate days until after World War I.

History of Memorial Day

Memorial Day, as Decoration Day gradually came to be known, originally honored only those lost while fighting in the Civil War. But during World War I the United States found itself embroiled in another major conflict, and the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars, including World War II, The Vietnam War, The Korean War and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

For decades, Memorial Day continued to be observed on May 30, the date General Logan had selected for the first Decoration Day. But in 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May in order to create a three-day weekend for federal employees. The change went into effect in 1971. The same law also declared Memorial Day a federal holiday.

Memorial Day Traditions and Rituals 

Cities and towns across the United States host Memorial Day parades each year, often incorporating military personnel and members of veterans’ organizations. Some of the largest parades take place in Chicago, New York and Washington, D.C.

Americans also observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and memorials. Some people wear a red poppy in remembrance of those fallen in war—a tradition that began with a World War I poem. On a less somber note, many people take weekend trips or throw parties and barbecues on the holiday, perhaps because Memorial Day weekend—the long weekend comprising the Saturday and Sunday before Memorial Day and Memorial Day itself—unofficially marks the beginning of summer.

Visit History.com for the full story and some great photos


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Medicare is the federal health insurance program

What is Medicare and How Does It Work?

Medicare.gov | May 2023 | Health Insurance | Contact Briana to get started!

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for:

  • People who are 65 or older
  • Certain younger people with disabilities
  • People with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant, sometimes called ESRD)

What are the parts of Medicare?

The different parts of Medicare help cover specific services:

  • Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)
    Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care.
  • Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)
    Part B covers certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services.
  • Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage)
    Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs (including many recommended shots or vaccines).

Part A & Part B Premiums

Most people don’t pay a monthly premium for Part A.

You usually don’t pay a monthly premium for Part A if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes while working for a certain amount of time. This is sometimes called “premium-free Part A.”

Learn more about premium-free Part A.

If you don’t qualify for premium-free Part A, you can buy Part A.

If you aren’t eligible for premium-free Part A, you may be able to buy Part A. You’ll pay up to $506 each month in 2023. If you paid Medicare taxes for less than 30 quarters, the standard Part A premium is $506. If you paid Medicare taxes for 30–39 quarters, the standard Part A premium is $278.

Learn more about Part A premiums.

Everyone pays a monthly premium for Part B.

Most people will pay the standard Part B premium amount. The standard Part B premium amount in 2023 is $164.90. If your modified adjusted gross income as reported on your IRS tax return from 2 years ago is above a certain amount, you’ll pay the standard premium amount and an Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). IRMAA is an extra charge added to your premium.

Learn more about Part B premiums.

How does Medicare work?

With Medicare, you have options in how you get your coverage. Once you enroll, you’ll need to decide how you’ll get your Medicare coverage.

There are 2 main ways:

Original Medicare

Original Medicare includes Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance). You pay for services as you get them. When you get services, you’ll pay a deductible at the start of each year, and you usually pay 20% of the cost of the Medicare-approved service, called coinsurance. If you want drug coverage, you can add a separate drug plan (Part D).

Original Medicare pays for much, but not all, of the cost for covered health care services and supplies. A Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy can help pay some of the remaining health care costs, like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Some Medigap policies also cover services that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, like emergency medical care when you travel outside the U.S.

Learn the general rules for how Original Medicare works.

Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage is Medicare-approved plan from a private company that offers an alternative to Original Medicare for your health and drug coverage. These “bundled” plans include Part A, Part B, and usually Part D. Plans may offer some extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover — like vision, hearing, and dental services. Medicare Advantage Plans have yearly contracts with Medicare and must follow Medicare’s coverage rules. The plan must notify you about any changes before the start of the next enrollment year.

Learn about the types of Medicare Advantage Plans.

Each Medicare Advantage Plan can charge different out-of-pocket costs. They can also have different rules for how you get services.

Contact Briana to get started and ask any questions!

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Event Insurance for those Special Occasions

Event Insurance for those Special Occasions

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Event Insurance | Start a Quote here!

Planning an event can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to ensuring that everything
runs smoothly and safely. One of the most important aspects of event planning is obtaining the
right insurance coverage. Event insurance is designed to protect you and your guests from any
unforeseen accidents or incidents that may occur during the event. In this blog post, we will
discuss the different types of event insurance available, including event general liability
insurance, one-day event insurance, and special event insurance.

Event General Liability Insurance

Event general liability insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for bodily injury
and property damage that may occur during an event. This type of insurance is essential for any
event, as accidents can happen at any time. For example, if a guest slips and falls on a wet
floor, event general liability insurance would cover any medical expenses or legal fees that may
arise from the incident.

Cheapest One-Day Event Insurance

If you are planning a one-day event, such as a birthday party or a small wedding, you may be
looking for the cheapest one-day event insurance available. One-day event insurance is
designed to provide coverage for a single day and is typically less expensive than other types of
event insurance. However, it is important to note that the cheapest one-day event insurance
may not provide the same level of coverage as other types of insurance. It is important to carefully review the policy and ensure that it provides adequate coverage for your event.

Best Event Insurance

When it comes to finding the best event insurance, there are a few factors to consider. First, you
will want to ensure that the insurance policy provides adequate coverage for your event. This
may include coverage for bodily injury, property damage, and other types of incidents that may
occur during the event. Additionally, you will want to consider the cost of the insurance policy, as
well as the reputation of the insurance provider. It is important to choose an insurance provider
that has a strong track record of providing quality coverage and excellent customer service.


1 Day Event Insurance

As mentioned earlier, one-day event insurance is designed to provide coverage for a single day.
This type of insurance is ideal for small events, such as birthday parties, family reunions, and
other gatherings. One-day event insurance typically provides coverage for bodily injury, property
damage, and other types of incidents that may occur during the event. It is important to carefully
review the policy and ensure that it provides adequate coverage for your event.

Special Event Insurance

Special event insurance is designed to provide coverage for larger events, such as concerts,
festivals, and other large gatherings. This type of insurance typically provides coverage for
bodily injury, property damage, and other types of incidents that may occur during the event.
Special event insurance may also provide coverage for cancellation or postponement of the
event due to unforeseen circumstances, such as severe weather or a natural disaster.

Event Liability Insurance
Event liability insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for liability claims that may
arise from an event. This type of insurance is essential for any event, as accidents can happen
at any time. For example, if a guest is injured during the event and files a lawsuit against the
event organizer, event liability insurance would cover any legal fees or damages that may arise
from the lawsuit.

Shield Insurance Agency Represents Over 40 Insurance Companies
If you are in need of event insurance, it is important to choose an insurance provider that has a
strong track record of providing quality coverage and excellent customer service. Shield
Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the right
insurance policy for your event. Our experienced agents can help you navigate the complex
world of event insurance, and ensure that you have the coverage you need to protect yourself
and your guests.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a Free Quote Today
If you are in need of event insurance, contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a
free quote today. Our experienced agents can help you find the right insurance policy for your
event, and ensure that you have the coverage you need to protect yourself and your guests.
Don’t leave the safety of your event to chance – contact Shield Insurance Agency today and get
the coverage you need.


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Lights Turned Off at the Gateway Arch Every Night to Assist in Bird Migration This Month for 325 Species

Lights Turned Off at the Gateway Arch

Lights Turned Off at the Gateway Arch Every Night to Assist in Bird Migration This Month for 325 Species

Good News Network | May 20, 2023 | Gateway Arch | Shield Insurance Agency | Start a Quote today!

From the majestic whooping crane to the smallest songbird, an iconic American landmark in Missouri is making the skies safer for spring migrating birds who follow the Mississippi River to reach their summer nesting grounds.

Since 1965 when it was unveiled, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis has punctuated the cityscape at night with lights that illuminate its most visited US National Park. But all during the month of May officials will turn off the lights at night to facilitate safe passage for more than 325 bird species following the route each year on their spring migration.

“St. Louis sits right beneath the Mississippi Flyway, a major migration highway,” said Jeremy Sweat, Superintendent, of Gateway Arch National Park.

For over a decade, the exterior lights have been turned off for two weeks each May—and again in September—to help minimize the possible disorienting effect the lights may have on the migrations. But this year the park will keep the lights off for the entire month of May.

Gateway Arch National Park

Gateway Arch National Park is both a building and program partner with Lights Out Heartland, an organization that works with partners to provide migrating birds safe passage along the Flyway during the high-intensity migration months of May and September.

According to the St. Louis Audubon Society, sixty percent of North American songbirds and forty percent of waterfowl are anticipated to migrate this spring and fall.

“Other ways we are trying to help the birds is to focus the lights better on the Arch,” said Pamela Sanfilippo who works at Gateway Arch National Park. That way, “light doesn’t go up into the sky.”

The towering silver Arch was built to honor a different kind of journey that began in 1804 when President Thomas Jefferson launched the Lewis and Clark Expedition which mapped a path to the Pacific Ocean from the middle of the continent. Two scientists set out with a team of scouts and mapmakers from the river port of Saint Louis, which opened up the West. Today, the Gateway Arch attracts 1.62 million visitors annually.

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Condo Insurance: Protecting Your Home and Your Wallet

Condo Insurance: Protecting Your Home and Your Wallet

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Condo Insurance | Start a Quote today!

As a renter or homeowner of a condo, it is important to understand the importance of having condo insurance. Condo insurance, also known as renters condo insurance or condo homeowner insurance, is a type of insurance that provides coverage for your personal belongings, liability, and the interior of your condo unit.

The cost of Condo Insurance

The cost of condo insurance can vary depending on a number of factors, including the location of your condo, the neighborhood and city you live in, and the type of coverage you choose. However, the cost of not having condo insurance can be much higher in the event of a disaster or accident.

One of the benefits of living in a condo is the sense of community and the shared responsibility of maintaining the property. However, it is important to remember that the responsibility for insuring your personal belongings and the interior of your unit falls on you, not the homeowners association (HOA).

When shopping for condo insurance, it is important to consider the coverage options that are available to you. Some policies may only cover the interior of your unit, while others may also provide coverage for your personal belongings and liability.

In addition to the coverage options, it is also important to consider the cost of the policy. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest policy available, it is important to remember that the cost of the policy should not be the only factor you consider. It is important to choose a policy that provides adequate coverage for your needs and fits within your budget.

Shield Sells Condo Insurance

At Shield Insurance Agency, we understand the importance of protecting your home and your wallet. That is why we represent over 40 insurance companies, allowing us to provide our clients with a variety of coverage options at competitive prices.

When you contact Shield Insurance Agency for a condo insurance quote, we will take the time to understand your unique needs and provide you with a policy that fits your budget. Our experienced agents will also provide you with information about the coverage options available to you, so you can make an informed decision about your insurance needs.

In addition to providing you with a policy that fits your needs and budget, Shield Insurance Agency also provides exceptional customer service. We are committed to building long-lasting relationships with our clients and providing them with the support they need when they need it most.

Living in a condo can be a great experience, but it is important to remember that accidents and disasters can happen at any time. By having condo insurance, you can protect your personal belongings, your liability, and the interior of your unit in the event of a disaster or accident.

If you are in need of condo insurance, contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today. Our experienced agents will work with you to find a policy that fits your needs and budget, so you can have peace of mind knowing that you are protected.


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Benefits of Health Insurance for your family

Benefits of Health Insurance for your family

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | May 23, 2023 | Health Insurance | Contact Bri for a quote today!

Health insurance is a crucial aspect of our lives that we often overlook until we need it. It provides us with financial protection against unexpected medical expenses that can arise from sickness, injury, or any other medical condition. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of health insurance and why it is essential to have it.

Health Insurance Bills

One of the most significant benefits of health insurance is that it helps you manage your medical bills. Medical bills can be expensive, and without insurance, you may find yourself struggling to pay them. Health insurance covers a portion of your medical expenses, which can help you save a significant amount of money. The amount of coverage you receive depends on your policy, but it can cover anything from doctor visits to hospital stays.

Another benefit of health insurance is that it helps you manage your deductibles. A deductible is the amount of money you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. With health insurance, you can choose a deductible that fits your budget and needs. This means that you can choose a higher deductible to lower your monthly premiums or a lower deductible to pay less out of pocket when you need medical care.

Prescriptions are another area where health insurance can be beneficial. Prescription drugs can be expensive, and without insurance, you may find yourself struggling to afford them. Health insurance can help cover the cost of prescription drugs, which can make it easier for you to manage your medical condition.

Injury and sickness are two of the most common reasons people need medical care. Health insurance can help cover the cost of medical care for both injuries and sickness. This means that you can get the medical care you need without worrying about the cost.

Medical emergencies can happen at any time, and they can be expensive. Health insurance can help cover the cost of emergency medical care, which can be a lifesaver in a medical emergency. This means that you can get the medical care you need without worrying about the cost.

Finally, health insurance can be beneficial for your family. If you have a family, you want to make sure that they are protected in case of a medical emergency. Health insurance can help cover the cost of medical care for your family, which can give you peace of mind.

In conclusion, health insurance is essential for anyone who wants to protect themselves and their family from unexpected medical expenses. It can help you manage your medical bills, deductibles, prescriptions, and emergency medical care. It can also be beneficial for your family. If you are looking for health insurance, contact Shield Insurance Agency for all of your insurance needs at (616) 896-4600. They can help you find the right policy for your needs and budget.

Learn about the Federal No Surprise Act


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Business Interruption Insurance

What you need to know about Business Interruption Insurance

Shield Insurance Agency | Business Interruption Insurance | Start a quote today!

Business interruption insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for losses that a business may incur due to a temporary shutdown or interruption of its operations. This type of insurance is designed to help businesses recover from unexpected events that may cause them to lose revenue or incur additional expenses.

Insurance carriers offer business interruption insurance as part of their commercial insurance policies. This type of insurance is typically included in a package policy that also includes property insurance, liability insurance, and other types of coverage that businesses need to protect themselves from financial losses.

Business Interruption Insurance Key Features

One of the key features of business interruption insurance is the exclusion of losses that are not covered by the policy. Insurance carriers typically exclude losses that are caused by events that are beyond the control of the business, such as natural disasters, acts of terrorism, or war. These exclusions are designed to limit the liability of the insurance carrier and ensure that the policy is affordable for businesses.

However, it is important for businesses to understand the exclusions in their business interruption insurance policy and to make sure that they have adequate coverage for the risks that they face. For example, if a business is located in an area that is prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, it may need to purchase additional coverage to protect itself from these risks.

Another important factor to consider when purchasing business interruption insurance is the amount of coverage that is needed. Businesses should carefully evaluate their financial needs and determine how much coverage they need to protect themselves from losses that may occur due to an interruption of their operations.

Contact Shield Insurance at (616) 896-4600 to learn more about business interruption insurance and to get a quote for coverage. Our experienced agents can help you evaluate your risks and determine the right amount of coverage for your business.

In addition to business interruption insurance, Shield Insurance offers a wide range of commercial insurance products to help businesses protect themselves from financial losses. Our policies include property insurance, liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and more.

We understand that every business is unique, and we work closely with our clients to develop customized insurance solutions that meet their specific needs. Whether you are a small business owner or a large corporation, we can help you find the right insurance coverage to protect your business and your bottom line.

At Shield Insurance, we are committed to providing our clients with the highest level of service and support. We are available to answer your questions, provide guidance, and help you navigate the complex world of commercial insurance.

If you are interested in learning more about business interruption insurance or any of our other commercial insurance products, please contact us at (616) 896-4600. We look forward to working with you to protect your business and your future.

Business interruption insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for losses that a business may incur due to a temporary shutdown or interruption of its operations. This type of insurance is designed to help businesses recover from unexpected events that may cause them to lose revenue or incur additional expenses.

Insurance carriers offer business interruption insurance as part of their commercial insurance policies. This type of insurance is typically included in a package policy that also includes property insurance, liability insurance, and other types of coverage that businesses need to protect themselves from financial losses.

One of the key features of business interruption insurance is the exclusion of losses that are not covered by the policy. Insurance carriers typically exclude losses that are caused by events that are beyond the control of the business, such as natural disasters, acts of terrorism, or war. These exclusions are designed to limit the liability of the insurance carrier and ensure that the policy is affordable for businesses.

However, it is important for businesses to understand the exclusions in their business interruption insurance policy and to make sure that they have adequate coverage for the risks that they face. For example, if a business is located in an area that is prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, it may need to purchase additional coverage to protect itself from these risks.

Another important factor to consider when purchasing business interruption insurance is the amount of coverage that is needed. Businesses should carefully evaluate their financial needs and determine how much coverage they need to protect themselves from losses that may occur due to an interruption of their operations.

Contact Shield Insurance at (616) 896-4600 to learn more about business interruption insurance and to get a quote for coverage. Our experienced agents can help you evaluate your risks and determine the right amount of coverage for your business.

In addition to business interruption insurance, Shield Insurance offers a wide range of commercial insurance products to help businesses protect themselves from financial losses. Our policies include property insurance, liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and more.

We understand that every business is unique, and we work closely with our clients to develop customized insurance solutions that meet their specific needs. Whether you are a small business owner or a large corporation, we can help you find the right insurance coverage to protect your business and your bottom line.

At Shield Insurance, we are committed to providing our clients with the highest level of service and support. We are available to answer your questions, provide guidance, and help you navigate the complex world of commercial insurance.

If you are interested in learning more about business interruption insurance or any of our other commercial insurance products, please contact us at (616) 896-4600. We look forward to working with you to protect your business and your future.


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How to pick the right pet insurance for your pet

How to pick the right pet insurance for your pet

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | May 10 2023 | Pet Insurance | Start a Quote today!

As pet owners, we all want to ensure that our furry friends are healthy and happy. However, accidents and illnesses can happen, and veterinary bills can quickly add up. This is where pet insurance comes in. Pet insurance can help cover the cost of unexpected veterinary expenses, giving you peace of mind and ensuring that your pet receives the care they need. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of pet insurance and how to pick the right insurance for your pet.

There are several types of pet insurance available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are the most common types of pet insurance:

1. Accident-Only Insurance: This type of insurance covers your pet in the event of an accident, such as a broken bone or a bite wound. It does not cover illnesses or routine care.

2. Time-Limited Insurance: This type of insurance covers your pet for a set period, usually 12 months, for both accidents and illnesses. After the policy expires, any conditions that your pet developed during that time will no longer be covered.

3. Maximum Benefit Insurance: This type of insurance covers your pet up to a certain amount, usually between $5,000 and $15,000. Once that limit is reached, the policy will no longer cover any further expenses.

4. Lifetime Insurance: This type of insurance covers your pet for its entire life, as long as you continue to pay the premiums. It usually has a higher premium than other types of insurance but provides the most comprehensive coverage.

Now that you know the different types of pet insurance, how do you pick the right one for your pet? Here are some factors to consider:

1. Your Pet’s Age and Breed: Some breeds are more prone to certain health conditions than others. For example, bulldogs are prone to respiratory problems, while German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia. If you have a purebred dog, it’s a good idea to research their breed’s common health issues and choose a policy that covers those conditions. Additionally, some policies may have age restrictions, so make sure to check if your pet is eligible.

2. Your Budget: Pet insurance premiums can vary widely depending on the type of policy and the coverage level. Consider how much you can afford to pay each month and how much you’re willing to pay out of pocket for veterinary expenses.

3. Coverage Limits: Make sure to read the policy carefully and understand what is covered and what is not. Some policies may have exclusions for pre-existing conditions or certain treatments. Additionally, some policies may have annual or lifetime coverage limits, so make sure to choose a policy that provides enough coverage for your pet’s needs.

4. Customer Service: When choosing a pet insurance provider, it’s important to consider their customer service. Look for a provider that has a good reputation for responding quickly to claims and providing excellent customer service.

5. Additional Benefits: Some pet insurance policies may offer additional benefits, such as coverage for alternative therapies or behavioral training. Consider whether these benefits are important to you and your pet.

If you’re looking for pet insurance, consider contacting Shield Insurance at (616) 896-4600. Shield Insurance offers a variety of pet insurance policies to fit your needs and budget. Their policies cover accidents, illnesses, and routine care. Additionally, Shield Insurance has a reputation for excellent customer service and quick claims processing.

In conclusion, pet insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection for unexpected veterinary expenses. When choosing a policy, consider your pet’s age and breed, your budget, coverage limits, customer service, and additional benefits. Contact Shield Insurance at (616) 896-4600 to learn more about their pet insurance policies and find the right coverage for your furry friend.


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Rental Insurance

Do I Need Renter’s Insurance?

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Renter’s Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

At Shield Insurance Agency in Michigan, we hear the question, “Do I need renter’s insurance?” often. In most cases, the answer is yes, but it’s important to understand the details. Answering these questions can help you determine if you need renter’s insurance. 

First, let’s talk about the different types of rental insurance. The most common type is apartment insurance, which covers your personal belongings in case of theft, fire, or other damage. This type of insurance also includes renters liability insurance, which protects you if someone is injured in your apartment and sues you for damages. Another type of rental insurance is loss of use coverage, which pays for temporary housing if your apartment becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event.

 

Does Your Landlord Require Renter’s Insurance? 

Some landlords require their tenants to have renter’s insurance. This provides protection for you, as well as potential liability protection for the landlord. 

If your landlord doesn’t require a renter’s policy as part of your rental agreement, it’s still a good idea. 

Can You Afford to Replace Your Belongings? 

You may think that you don’t have any valuables. However, even inexpensive items can add up quickly. Consider your furniture, clothing, and any important items like jewelry or electronics. 

What would happen if your personal property was damaged? Do you have the financial resources to replace your items? If you can’t afford to repurchase these items, a renter’s policy is important. 

Can You Afford a Hotel and Living Expenses? 

Most renter’s policies will cover accommodations and living expenses if you have to leave your home due to a covered event.  If you are concerned that you don’t have the emergency funds to cover this situation, a renter’s policy can provide needed peace of mind. 

Do You Need Liability Protection with Renter’s Insurance

If someone is injured in your home or their property is damaged, you can be liable for the damages. This can put a strain on you financially and even jeopardize your future. 

A renter’s policy provides coverage if you have you are held responsible for a liability claim. 

Reach Out To Us

If you need renter’s insurance in Michigan, contact Shield Insurance Agency. We offer renter’s insurance policies, as well as homeowners, auto insurance, and more to meet all your insurance needs. 

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Five Parts of an Insurance Policy

Five Parts of an Insurance Policy

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | May 19, 2023 | Insurance | Start a quote today!

Insurance policies can be complex and confusing, but understanding the different parts of a policy is essential to ensure that you have the right coverage for your needs. In this blog post, we will discuss the five parts of an insurance policy: premium, deductible, policy limits, exclusions, and riders.

1. Premium: The premium is the amount you pay for your insurance coverage. It is typically paid on a monthly or annual basis and is based on several factors, including your age, location, and the type of coverage you need. The premium is the cost of your insurance policy, and it is important to choose a premium that fits your budget.

2. Deductible: The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and your car is damaged in an accident that costs $1,000 to repair, you will pay $500, and your insurance company will pay the remaining $500. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, but it also means you will pay more out of pocket if you need to file a claim.

3. Policy Limits: Policy limits are the maximum amount your insurance company will pay for a covered loss. For example, if you have a $100,000 policy limit for liability coverage and you are sued for $150,000, you will be responsible for paying the remaining $50,000. It is important to choose policy limits that are high enough to protect your assets in the event of a lawsuit.

4. Exclusions: Exclusions are specific situations or events that are not covered by your insurance policy. For example, if you have a homeowner’s insurance policy that excludes flood damage, you will not be covered if your home is damaged by a flood. It is important to read your policy carefully to understand what is and is not covered.

5. Riders – Additional coverage and options: Riders are additional coverage options that you can add to your insurance policy. For example, if you have a homeowner’s insurance policy that does not cover earthquake damage, you can add an earthquake rider to your policy for an additional cost. Riders can provide additional protection for specific situations that are not covered by your standard policy.

Does Your Insurance Meet Your Needs?

Understanding the different parts of an insurance policy is essential to ensure that you have the right coverage for your needs. It is important to review your policy regularly and make changes as needed to ensure that your coverage meets your current needs. If you have questions about your insurance policy or need help choosing the right coverage, contact your insurance agent for assistance.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we are committed to helping our clients find the right insurance coverage for their needs. Our experienced agents can help you understand the different parts of your insurance policy and make sure that you have the coverage you need to protect your assets and your family. Contact us today to learn more about our insurance products and services.


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