Matt and Lisa have the perfect date night planned. Dinner, theater, then desert. However, that perfect date night quickly turns into a disaster when Matt goes to pay for the dinner. Both his debit card and credit card are declined. With the mood for the night now ruined, they return home and start making phone calls to find out what is going on. They quickly determine that the checking account has been drained and the credit card is maxed out and all the purchases were made several states away. Matt has been an unfortunate victim of identity theft.

What is identity theft?

Identity theft occurs when personal information such as Social Security numbers, bank account information or credit card numbers are obtained without permission. Once thieves have this information, they can use existing credit cards or open new ones, make purchases in the victims name, write bad checks, even take out loans. If the theft is not recognized immediately, a victims credit score could be tarnished without them realizing it. The FTC estimates that 17.6 million Americans have their identities stolen annually.

How can thieves steal your identity?

There are a number of ways that thieves can still your identity but the most common means are:

• Dumpster Diving – thieves rummage through your trash looking of bills or other papers with personal information.
• Skimming – Thieves steal credit and/or debit card numbers by using a special storage device when processing your card.
• Phishing – Thieves pretend to be financial institutions and send spam e-mails and pop-up messages to your computer to get you to reveal personal information.
• Changing your address – Thieves divert your billing statements to another location
• Stealing (the old-fashioned way) – Thieves take your purse or wallet, bank or credit card statements, pre-approved credit offers and tax information from your mailbox.
• Pretexting – Thieves use false pretenses to obtain your personal information from financial institutions, and use that information to make changes.

Signs of identity theft.

Stay alert for any of the following signs of identity theft:

• Accounts you did not open and debits on your account that you cannot explain.
• Fraudulent or inaccurate information on your credit report.
• Failing to receive bills in the mail.
• Receiving credit cards in the mail that you did not apply for.
• Being denied credit or being offered less favorable credit terms, such as a higher interest rate, for no apparent reason.
• Receiving calls and letters from debt collectors about merchandise/services that you did not purchase.

Do I need Identity theft insurance coverage?

While identity theft insurance does not protect against actual monetary theft, it does cover the cost victims will incur while they are recovering their identity. The coverage may include:

• Phone call and photocopying charges
• Postage fees for mailing documents
• Salary loss due to uncompensated time away from work while repairing one’s identity
• Legal fees
• Access to a fraud specialist who can assist in restoring good credit and protecting one’s identity again
• Help with preparing documents, filing police reports and creating a fraud victim affidavit.

Since victims may spend a considerable amount of time recovering from identity theft, these services can make the situation a little less stressful. Both on the mind and your wallet.

In addition to identity theft insurance you should also make sure to protect your social security number, take caution when throwing documents in the trash, exercise caution on the internet, select intricate passwords , verify sources before giving out any personal information and check your credit report on an annual basis. Life is stressful enough, the last thing you want is the additional stress of identity theft. By taking extra precautions and purchasing identity theft insurance you can have some extra peace of mind that your identity is safe.

Interested in purchasing identity theft coverage? Information can be found by clicking here.

In response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization have recommended that individuals who may have been exposed to the disease self-quarantine at home for 14 days. In addition, public health officials are recommending that healthy individuals practice social distancing, staying at home to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Following the advice of public health officials can help stop the spread of COVID-19, but if you don’t take proper precautions, your mental well-being could suffer while you’re quarantining.

If you’re self-quarantining or practicing social distancing, keep the following tips in mind to maintain your mental well-being.

Maintain a Routine

One of the best things that you can do to preserve your mental well-being is to stick to a routine. For example, if you’re used to going to the gym before work, try to wake up early and get an at-home workout in before you go to work or start your workday from home. Maintaining as much normalcy as possible with your daily routine can help keep your mood as lifted as possible, and prevent boredom and distress from taking over.

If you have children that will be at home now, it’s also important to create a routine for them. Whether they re practicing virtual learning with their schools or if they will just be home, you should implement a structured schedule for them so they know what your expectations are. Try to limit as much screen time as possible and incorporate learning activities throughout the day.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

This suggestion goes hand-in-hand with sticking to a routine. While you’re at home, it can be easy to go to bed or sleep in later than you typically would. Breaking your normal sleep routine can have negative effects on your overall mental well-being, so you should try to stick to your typical schedule as much as possible.

Spend Time Outside

Unless health officials give you explicit instructions to stay in your home no matter what, try to get outside periodically throughout the day. This could involve going out in your backyard or taking a walk around the block, but shouldn’t include going to a park or other areas where large groups of people may be.

Being outside also helps to promote higher vitamin D levels, a vitamin the body makes when skin is directly exposed to the sun. Many people are deficient in vitamin D, so exercising outside can be a great way to correct that.

Leverage the Power of Technology

When in quarantine or self-isolation, it can be easy to feel lonely. Fortunately, advancements in technology have made it easy to connect with others without having to physically be in contact with them. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recommends reaching out to loved ones with technology to reduce feelings of loneliness and anxiety, and to supplement your social life while you’re quarantining or social distancing. If you’re feeling down, use video calling technology or social media to get in touch with friends and family.

Don’t Obsess Over the News

It can be easy to become overwhelmed by watching the news and reviewing the updates of the COVID-19 situation. While it’s important to be informed of the situation, you should not obsess over the news. For example, instead of monitoring the news all day from home, consider checking for updates once in the morning and once at night.

Practice Positivity and Gratitude

Taking five minutes a day to write down the things that you are grateful for has been proven to lower stress levels and can help you change your mindset from negative to positive. While you’re quarantining or social distancing, it’s important to build time into your routine to practice positivity or express gratitude to change your mindset on your situation and boost your mood.

Summary

Your mental well-being plays a huge role in your overall health and well-being, and it should be prioritized. These six suggestions may help you maintain your mental well-being during a quarantine, but shouldn’t be considered as medical advice.

If you have concerns about your mental well-being while you’re in quarantine, please contact your mental health professional or use SAMHSA’s National Helpline by calling 800-662-HELP (4357).

Volunteering is something near and dear to our hearts here at Rinehart-Walters-Danner Insurance. Our owners, partners and staff participate in numerous volunteering events each year. We take great pride in supporting and helping out in our community. And we encourage you to join us. 

Volunteer Work

In addition to boosting your social well-being, volunteering can make you feel physically stronger, increase mental sharpness, aid in reducing stress and even help you live longer. Wow! Despite these proven positive effects, only 1 in 4 Americans regularly volunteer. (According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics). If you’re curious about the specific benefits of volunteering or how to get started, read on.

Health Benefits of Volunteering

As previously mentioned, volunteering has proven health benefits. A few of those benefits include:

• Increased mental and physical activity – Participating in volunteer activities gives you the opportunity to move and think in different ways than you’re used to doing. Both at home or at work. And, there’s a good chance that you’ll be on the move while volunteering. This will increases your overall physical activity level, too.
• Reduced stress levels – Giving back to those in need is said to enhance one’s sense of belonging, meaning and appreciation. Those are all elements that can help reduce your stress levels.
• Increased social well-being – By going out and volunteering in your community, you’re broadening your social circle and forging new relationships. As well as giving back to those who are in need. All of these activities can increase your social well-being, a component that plays a large role in your overall health.

Volunteers may work full time, part time or be retired. Some may volunteer with one organization a few hours a week. Others with multiple organizations several hours a week. No matter what amount of time that is contributed, studies show that volunteers have an overall healthier, happier outlook on life.

How to Get Started

There are many organizations that can benefit from your volunteer time. A good place to start looking is within your community. Pick one that complements your talents, interests, schedule and physical abilities. When you’re thinking about what you’d like to do as a volunteer, it may be helpful to think about what’s motivating you. Some volunteers are motivated by the following:

• Helping others
• Learning about the community
• Meeting new and interesting people
• Working in a team environment
• Feeling like they made a difference
• Gaining valuable life experiences
• Acquiring new skills

Once you’ve determined what’s motivating you to volunteer, you’ll be able to narrow down your search for local volunteer programs. For example, if you enjoy helping others, it may be beneficial to try to volunteer at a hospital or clinic. If you want to learn more about your community, volunteer on a community council or committee.

How to Have a Successful Experience

Online listings or a newspaper are great options to identify volunteer programs. To ensure a successful outcome for both you and the volunteer program, ask yourself the following questions:

• When can I begin?
• What skills can I offer? 
• What skills can I gain?
• How much time can I commit?
• What would I not want to do as a volunteer?
• How often do I want to participate?
• What community issue do I want to affect through my volunteer service?
• What group or population do I want to serve?

Making the decision to volunteer is greatly appreciated by those in need. A small task for you can make the world of difference to someone else. From one community member to another, we Thank You! 

There seems to be a tip or trick to everything these days. But have you ever heard of the tire tread penny test? You can use a penny to check if it is time to replace your tires. Yes, you read that right, a penny! Here’s how it works.

Tire Tread Penny Test

Conduct the test by placing the coin upside down with Lincoln facing you in the center of the tread.

• If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, replace your tires immediately.
• If Lincoln’s hair is partially visible, start comparing tire prices, as you will need new ones soon.

Use the following tops to help keep your tires in the best shape possible

• Rotate your tires from the front to the rear in pairs.
• If you drive a four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle, replace all four tires when it is recommenced in your service manual.
• Since tires do not wear evenly, perform the tire tread penny test at several points from the outside to the inside of the tires.
• Test and replace your tires at the same time.
• Always keep your tires properly inflated.

Your cars performance is essential to both it’s safety and its efficiency. Make sure your tires are in good condition and replace then as soon as they show too much wear. 

As temperatures drop, the risk of frozen pipes increases in your home. If your pipes freeze, they may burst, causing sever damage. To prevent frozen pipes this winter, follow these tips:

#1

Set your thermostat to at least 55F. The lower the temperature of your home, the more likely your pipes will freeze. 

#2

Insulate exposed pipes with insulation material such as foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves.

#3

Open any cabinets that contain exposed pipes to allow warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes. 

#4

Allow your faucets to drip to help relieve pressure in the pipes and prevent them from bursting. 

#5

Seal any cracks in the foundation or any outside walls to prevent cold air from seeping into your home. 

#6

Locate all shut-off valves, so if  a pipe were to burst, you could quickly turn off water to prevent water damage. 

Renting instead of buying is a preferred way of living for many. Moving to a new location and being unsure of where you want to stay permanently. Not wanting or having the extra money for a down payment. Or simply wanting the ease of knowing you don’t have to worry about home maintenance or repairs. Those are all common reasons you may rent instead of purchasing a home. However, just because your landlord has insurance coverage, doesn’t mean that you should not purchase renters insurance. 

Insurance is an important protection you need for yourself and your family. There are many myths out there when it comes to renters insurance. We’re here to discuss those myths and make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. 

I don’t have enough stuff to get renters insurance

Things add up fast! Your electronics, appliances, clothes and even food are all large expenses that can be protected under your policy. 

My landlord’s insurance will cover the damages to my belongings

Typically, a landlord’s insurance policy only covers the physical building. Not anything that’s within the walls or that belong to a tenant. 

Personal belongings are the only things covered under renters insurance

Renters insurance can also cover damages to someone’s property within your home. And, depending on the limits of your liability coverage, it can cover some or all of the medical expenses if someone happens to get injured on your property. 

I can’t afford renters insurance

Renters insurance can be incredibly affordable. Although pricing can always vary, some policies can cost as little as a couple cups of coffee at your favorite cafe. 

Did you know that if your home becomes uninhabitable for reasons covered in your policy, the insurance company will reimburse you for your temporary living expenses until you are able to find a new place to live? Your insurance policy is there not only to protect your belongings, but so much more. 

Don’t wait until it’s too late to start thinking about renters insurance

We spend a lot of time and energy filling our living spaces with items that make it feel like home. It only takes one unexpected event to have it all stripped away. Renters insurance can give you peace of mind knowing that you and all of your belongings are covered. 

Click Here to learn more. 

After a long day at the office, Sally is finally on her way home. Deciding she is not going to go home and cook dinner, she reaches for her cell phone to call in a takeout order. She takes a moment to look at her phone to find the number, just a few seconds, but that was all it took to miss that the car in front of her had turned on its turn signal and slowed down. Sally rear ends the car in front of her. This accident resulted in serious injuries, which turned into a lawsuit and court dates.

Sally was found at fault and ordered to pay $1,000,000 for medical expenses, lost wages and the “pain and suffering” of the injured parties. Although she had auto insurance, the policy had a limit of $300,000. That leaves Sally to make up the additional $700,000. Fortunately Sally didn’t have to drain her assets because she has personal umbrella insurance.

What is umbrella insurance?

It is a policy that will extend the limits of your auto and homeowners insurance policies. It will also provide coverage for personal injury claims. Like an umbrella that protects you from the rain, a personal umbrella insurance policy provides an extra layer of insurance coverage over your standard liability policies. It protects your personal assets by kicking in when your standard liability coverage is exhausted. Even if your assets are small, it can protect your income; in some settlements, wages can be garnished up to 10 years.  In Short: an umbrella insurance policy protects you from a downpour – that worse-case scenario where you could lose everything in a lawsuit.

Learn more about personal insurance – Click here

Who needs a umbrella insurance?

You do! contrary to popular believe, umbrella insurance is not just for the wealthy. We recommend that everyone consider carrying an umbrella insurance policy. If you have a teenage driver, own a swimming pool or entertain at your home frequently, you could have increased chances of getting sued. It is wise to supplement your insurance with umbrella insurance.

How much do I need?

That is something you should discuss with your agent to ensure you have enough coverage. You’ll want to take into consideration not only your total personal assets but your potential personal risks. Coverage starts at $1 million, and can go as high as $10 million.

How much does coverage cost?

Compared to the coverage you gain, additional liability insurance is fairly inexpensive. Depending on the policy value and your personal risk factors, such as recent auto tickets, your credit rating and more, a $1 million umbrella insurance policy typically costs about a dollar per day. Cost goes up an additional $50 to $75 for each million thereafter.

Don’t put your savings and assets at risk. Count on our expertise and let us design an insurance plan to fit your needs.

Click here to contact us to get started today.

Everyone can probably agree that they have a pile of old electronic devices or equipment just laying around taking up space. Personal or Business alike. Most of these items you can not simply just throw in the trash, and it usually costs money to dispose of them. Because of this inconvenience, we have decided to partner with Richland Newhope Industries and Celina Insurance to hold an eWaste Recycling Day. And it will conveniently be held right at our office! 

Join us September 28, 2019 for an eWaste Recycling Day

This event will run from 8:30 am – 11:30 am or until capacity is reached. Below is a flyer that shows the accepted and not accepted materials. You can also find information on the Facebook Event Page. 

Help us spread the word about the eWaste Recycling Day event!

In today’s world, everyone is looking for ways to make the most out of every dollar. Insurance premiums can be a large expense in most households. Even though auto insurance is something you are required to have, it doesn’t have to break the bank. We have a few recommendations that could help you save money on auto insurance premiums.

Click here for auto insurance details

Consider a higher deductible

The higher the deductible the lower the premium. A deductible is the money you the insured will pay before the insurance company pays out. If you have a $250 deductible and the total cost to fix your car is $2,000, you pay $250 then the insurance company will pay the remaining $1,750. However if you have a $1,000 deductible the insurance company will pay $1,000. By paying a bigger portion of a claim, your monthly premium will be lower. You pay premiums monthly, however, you will only pay your deductible if you have a claim. Why not save yourself money every month?

Keep a good driving record

Your auto premiums are a direct result of your driving record. This amount is determined by the insurance company to cover costs of insuring you and your family as drivers on the road. If you have no accidents or moving violations on your records, you may be eligible for a lower rate or good driver discounts.

Check if you qualify for low mileage discounts

Many insurance companies have “classes” of drivers based on how many miles they drive their car annually. Check to make sure your insurance agent has the correct mileage for you and if you qualify for any low mileage discounts.

Multi Line Discounts

Many insurance carriers offer auto, home and renters insurance. As a result, if you have your auto and home or renters insurance with the same company, you could qualify for additional discounts. This is not only a good way to save money, but a great convenience as you only have to contact one company or agent for monthly payments, questions, changes or the unfortunate event of a claim.

Click here to learn about homeowners insurance

Click here to learn about renters insurance

Work with an independent insurance agent/agency

By working with an independent insurance agent/agency you have more insurance companies available to you. A captive agent works with one company, an independent agent works with multiple companies. This works in your interest as they can shop insurance companies for you and find the best fit for your needs at the best rate. They can do the work for you to help you save money on auto insurance.

We’re here to help. Whether your a current customer or not a customer at all, give us a call and we can start looking into ways to help you save money on auto insurance today.

Monday September 2, 2019 is Labor Day. Labor Day is observed the first Monday in September with many employers closing their business and giving employees the day off. 

According to History.com: 

Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers. 

Facts 

• It became a federal holiday in 1894.
• It was created by the labor movement in the late 19th century.
• In the 1800 the average work day was 12 hours long and you worked 7 days a week.
• It symbolizes the end of summer for many Americans.

Many families choose Labor Day weekend to have one last get together for the summer. Cookouts, parades, and athletic events are popular long weekend fund. Remember to recognize the hard workers in your family when celebrating this year.

If you want to learn more you can find great information by visiting History.com or Dol.gov