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Important Things To Know About Life Insurance

Important Things To Know About Life Insurance

September is Life Insurance Awareness month. Most Americans who do have life insurance, are not carrying enough, life insurance. Then, there is the rest of Americans (about 40%) who have no life insurance whatsoever.

According to research, the two most common reasons why an individual does not carry life insurance is because they have competing financial priorities, or they think they can’t afford it.

This is why every September, our agency helps spread awareness and educate our clients on the facts and importance of life insurance.

Here are some interesting and important things to know about Life Insurance:

  • The first ancient civilization to use life insurance was the Roman Empire. Burial clubs would go around and collect money from the poor to pay for their funerals.
  • Every U.S. Citizen is eligible for guaranteed issued life insurance, regardless of age, sex or medical condition.
  • Term life insurance can cost as little as the price of one cup of coffee, per week.
  • You’re never too old or too young to buy life insurance. In fact, the younger you buy, the better off you will be.
  • The goal of life insurance is to provide financial security for your family after you are gone.
  • The term of a life insurance policy can be for as long as you decide.
  • The beneficiary of a life insurance policy is the individual that relies on you for an income.
  • Men are more likely to pay more for life insurance than women due to health conditions, dangerous hobbies, and lack of seeking medical attention.
  • If you have a dependent relying on your life, you should have life insurance.
  • Young professionals are the largest buyers of life insurance.
  • The most common reason for retired individuals to buy life insurance is to pay for funeral costs.
  • Business owners have the option to name their business as a beneficiary on their life insurance policy.

Our life insurance specialists at C.H. Edwards, Inc., recommend that individuals carry eight times their annual salary in life insurance. If you do not already have life insurance or you would like to review your current life insurance policy, contact our office at
(516) 249-5200 and we will be happy to assist you.

Don’t wait another day. Make an investment in your families future by purchasing  life insurance today.

 

Apple’s New and Redesigned Emojis

Apple’s New and Redesigned Emojis

If you love using emoji as a form of communication, then the news that Apple just released will make you happy. This Fall, Apple will be joining Google in adding different types of emoji that reflect gender equality. They announced over 100 new and redesigned emoji that will launch with iOS 10. The main focus of this new launch is to release a variety of emoji that better represent men and women in the workforce. This a project that both Google and Apple have joined together with the Unicode Consortium, which is the organization in charge of adding emoji. Since this project is supported by Unicode, it means the emoji will show up properly on all different devices.

This update will include alterations to existing ones as well as never before seen emoji. Users can now pick between female and male athletes and professionals. There will also be an addition of a new rainbow flag. One lastly addition will be more family options, like single parent families. “Google says 90% of the world’s online population use emoji, and giving people more options to express themselves is a good thing.” And now this Fall, you will be able to express yourself even more throughout the use of emoji. What emoji are you most excited for?

Written by: Sandra Costanzo

Hurricane Season Preparedness

Hurricane Season Preparedness

Although hurricane season officially began on June 1st, we are now entering the peak for this year’s season. From mid-August through mid-October, the Atlantic coast is at a higher risk for hurricanes and tropical storms.

With that said, here are some hurricane safety tips to help you prepare for this year’s peak season.

1. Know if you are in a high risk area. Find out if you live in an area where you are exposed to flood risks and high winds. Speak to your local emergency management agency.

2. Make an emergency plan. Sit down with the members of your household and come up with an evacuation and safety procedure in the event of a severe storm.

3. Put together a basic survival kit. Fill a water safe bin with items such as water, non-perishable foods, a first aid kit, flashlights, cash, chargers, and batteries. Store this bin in an easy to reach, safe place in case of an emergency.

4. Be sure to stay tuned with local emergency alerts, TV, radio, and weather updates. Knowing if there is a storm headed your way will help you to prepare properly.

5. Consider buying flood insurance. Flood can happen anywhere at any time. Even if you do not live in a flood area! Keep in mind that Flood insurance must be in force a minimum of 30 days before a claim can be made.  Flood is NOT covered on a typical homeowners policy.

Don’t get caught unprepared this flood season. For more information on flood insurance and whether it is right for you, please give our office a call at (516) 249-5200 or visit our website at www.chedwards.net.  Act now.  Don’t wait for a disaster to strike!

by Denise Visco

 

TSA PreCheck Program

TSA PreCheck Program

Have you ever wondered how to get through the airport faster? Well one way can be to shorten the security line. This is easily done with TSA PreCheck.

The TSA PreCheck program allows trusted travelers to go through an accelerated security screening process when departing from participating U.S. airports. More than 160 airports and 16 airlines allow TSA pre-approved members to clear airport security checkpoints efficiently and hassle free. Approved PreCheck members are given a Known Traveler Number, or a “KTN,” to be used during the flight reservation process so that airlines can print the KTN directly on a member’s boarding pass as an indicator. Expedited TSA PreCheck screenings are not guaranteed in all cases as TSA security measures are unpredictable.

Now that you know what it is, you are probably thinking how do you get into this program. We have the answers for you! Individuals who can get TSA PreCheck approval include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents who have never been convicted of certain crimes. Also eligible for TSA PreCheck enrollment are members of other Trusted Traveler programs belonging to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, like Global Entry, SENTRI and NEXUS. Furthermore, the following groups are all considered

TSA pre-approved:
• U.S. active-duty military members
• National Guard members
• Reserve members
• Department of Defense civilian employees
• Federal employees with security clearance

There are many benefits to this program. Especially if you are a frequent flyer. Airline customers with TSA PreCheck approval have the benefit of going through a separate, shorter TSA PreCheck screening security queue so that they can clear the checkpoint and get to their gate faster. Additionally, TSA fast pass members are allowed to keep their shoes, belts and light jackets on their bodies and travel-size liquids and laptops in their bags. TSA PreCheck status members are generally exempt from undergoing body scans and pat downs. These adjustments to the regular screening process allow for a more comfortable and convenient travel experience.

Written by: Sandra Costanzo

What Happened to the Spare Tire?

What Happened to the Spare Tire?

When you purchase a new vehicle, you expect the car to be equipped with all of the basic features a new car would have. Features such as adaptive headlights, air bags, seat belts, backup cameras, and brake assistance. How about the spare tire? A decade ago, the spare tire was an important feature when purchasing a new car.

According to a study conducted by AAA, automakers are ditching the spare tire in favor of tire inflator kits. Over a third of new vehicles sold in 2015 alone were driven without a spare tire.

Stringent fuel economy standards have forced automakers to shed weight from their vehicles; these changes have generally benefited drivers by lowering pollution and consumer gas budgets. Substituting a tire inflator for a spare tire only saves about 30 pounds from the vehicle. The 30 pounds saved is equivalent to saving less than a penny per gallon of gas.

Meanwhile, tire inflator kits can cost up to $300 to repair after a single use. Not only are the tire inflators more expensive to repair than changing a tire, but they also have limited utility. When a puncture occurs in the center of the tire’s tread, on the side wall, or in case of a blowout, the tire inflator is not effective.

Flat tires aren’t disappearing anytime soon, so why should spare tires?

If you are shopping for a new car this season, do not hesitate to ask your dealer if your vehicle comes with a spare tire. If your vehicle is equipped with a tire inflator, learn how to use the kit. It’s better to find out now, than to be surprised on the side of the road.

 

Long Island Game Farm – Fun Before the Summer Ends

Long Island Game Farm – Fun Before the Summer Ends

Are you looking to have some family fun before it’s time to head back to school? Look no further than the Long Island Game Farm located in Manorville, New York.20160723_104327

Founded in 1970, the Long Island Game Farm has been providing a life time of memories for children and families on Long Island. This year, they are celebrating their 47th season as the largest combined children’s zoo and wild life park on Long Island; with a wide variety of shows, interactive animal exhibits, and carnival rides, every family member is sure to find something they love.

Ticket prices vary among age. Adult admission is $18.95 + tax. Seniors (62 +), children and military personal admission is $16.95 + tax. If you are visiting with a child under the age of 2 admission is free for them. If you plan to visit with a large group, take advantage of their special package prices listed on their website.

While there, be sure to pick up some treat for the animals. Animals with a sign that say “feed me” are happy to be fed and loved! Don’t worry, they won’t bite!

20160723_105209Make sure to make a pit stop at bambiland, the giraffe encounter and the nursery. At these interactive exhibits you get up close and personal with the animals to feed, pet, and learn more about them.

Find out what the Long Island Game Farm has in store for yourself. Visit them today with your loved ones. For more information visit http://www.longislandgamefarm.com/.

 

Protecting Your Four Legged Friend During The Summer Month

Protecting Your Four Legged Friend During The Summer Month

While it is easy for humans to detect their body reactions to heat, for pets, it is not so easy. This is why it is important to keep a close eye on your pets and provide extra care for them during the hot summer months.

Follow these helpful tips when it comes to protecting your four legged friend:

1. Do not leave pets in a parked car: The temperature inside a vehicle can quickly approach dangerous. If you know your pet will not be allowed in a certain store while you are out, make sure to keep them at home in the comfort of your air conditioned home.

2. Change pets exercise regimen: Midday walks should be switched to early mornings and evenings when the sun is not at its peak and the temperatures are cooler.

3. Be mindful of your breed: Short-nosed breeds have a harder time in extreme heat due to their shorter airways. Also, consider the fur on your dog. For example, dogs with more hair like huskies should spend very little time outside to avoid over heating.

4. Let dogs inside: Your dog may enjoy their dog house but they are very similar to a parked car on hot days. Bring your dog inside and let them enjoy the air conditioning.

5. Learn to recognize the signs of heat stroke: Heavy painting, glazed eyes and rapid heart beat are all sure signs of heatstroke. Make sure that if your pet has any of these signs to seek medical help immediately.

Pets are not just pets, they are family. Make sure that you treat your furry friend with extra love and compassion on these hot days as well as every other day of the year.

#fightagainstanimalcruelty

 

Travelers Insurance Company Seminar

Travelers Insurance Company Seminar

Becoming familiar with the companies you write insurance through is essential when you are an insurance customer service representative. Being knowledgeable benefits the client, and makes you a better sales representative.

I recently attended a seminar offered by Travelers Insurance Company at their Huntington, New York office. Usually when people hear the word “seminar” they automatically think of a huge room with a bunch of chairs and an instructor giving a lecture at the front of the room. However, this was not the case! Travelers figured out a fun and interactive way to spice up their seminar.

Representatives from insurance agencies all over Long Island came to attend this learning experience.

20160517_104729_resizedFirst, all of the attendees were served a breakfast buffet before the start of the meeting. We then took our seats and were divided into small groups of eight. These groups then would migrate around the conference room to six different stations where you would focus on a certain product that Travelers has to offer. I truly enjoyed the group of representatives I was placed with during the seminar. They were all from local agencies on Long Island who do the same thing I do every day!

At each station we were trained on marketing, auto insurance, home insurance, claims, boat insurance and so much more. Each Travelers representative explained each product in a clear and concise manner.

I hope Travelers has another seminar very soon so I can meet more great people. Kudos to you Travelers Insurance!

Written by: Amanda Haase

ADAS: How C.H. Edwards, Inc., Can Help

ADAS: How C.H. Edwards, Inc., Can Help

Do you drive a vehicle with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems?

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, (also commonly referred to as ADAS), are safety systems designed to work together and help drivers avoid potential problems and collision with other vehicles.

Several of the ADAS features are built into these vehicles’ windshields. So, when it comes to repairing your windshield in the event of a glass claim, it is essential to know that this piece of equipment is being repaired and recalibrated properly.

C.H. Edwards, Inc., is proud to say that we settle our client’s glass claims with one of the leaders in identifying these specialized vehicles’ needs.

Safelite Auto Glass helps provide peace of mind not only to you, but to our dedicated customer service agents at C.H. Edwards, that help in settling your claim. In most cases, an owner of this specialized vehicle would need to schedule a recalibration with their dealership. C.H. Edwards can provide you with one-stop windshield replacement and ADAS recalibration with Safelite.

Depending upon location, these services will be available to our clients late 2016 and early 2017.

If you would like more information on automobile insurance, please visit our website at www.chedwards.net or call us at 516-249-5200.