Insurance Claims A Guide to Filing
/ By Charlene Echerivel / Commercial Insurance • Disaster Coverage • Home Insurance • Personal Insurance • Vehicle Insurance/ / 0 Comments

Navigating the Path to Successful Insurance Claims: A Guide to Filing with Confidence

Insurance Claims A Guide to Filing

As a Dave Ramsey trusted provider, Intelli Choice Insurance is committed to providing valuable, expert advice to our customers. Today, we'll walk you through the process of filing an insurance claim, whether you're dealing with homeowners or auto insurance, and events such as floods or auto accidents. We'll cover everything from gathering the necessary information to receiving your payout.

Be Prepared: Gather and Store Important Information

Before an emergency strikes, it's important to have all the necessary information ready. Here's a checklist of what you should gather and store:

Insurance policy numbers and documents
Insurance company contact information
Emergency contacts (e.g., medical, legal, or financial professionals)
Digital copies of essential documents (e.g., birth certificates, property deeds, or vehicle titles)

Keep both physical and digital copies of these documents in a secure place, such as a fireproof safe or encrypted cloud storage.

Important information for insurance claims

Initiating the Claim Process: Where to Start

When you need to file a claim, your first step should be contacting your insurance agent or carrier. They will guide you through the process and help determine the type of claim you need to file.
If you're dealing with a natural disaster or widespread event, be prepared for higher call volumes and potential wait times. In this case, it might be helpful to review your policy documents and prepare any necessary information in advance.

Timing Matters: When to File a Claim

Most insurance policies require you to file a claim as soon as reasonably possible after an incident. Delaying the claim process could result in the denial of coverage or reduced payouts.
Keep in mind that each state has specific deadlines for filing insurance claims, which may vary depending on the type of coverage and event. Consult with your insurance agent or carrier for guidance on filing deadlines.

When to File a Claim

The Essentials: What Information You'll Need

To ensure a smooth claims process, gather the following information:

Your policy number and insurance information
A detailed description of the incident, including date, time, and location
Photos or videos of the damage, if applicable
Witness statements, if available
Repair estimates, if applicable
Police or incident reports, if applicable

Receiving Your Payout: How Soon Will You Get Paid?

The timeline for receiving your insurance payout varies depending on the type of claim, your insurer, and the complexity of the incident. Most insurance companies aim to resolve claims promptly, often within 30 days of filing.
In some cases, such as natural disasters or widespread events, the claims process may take longer due to the volume of claims being processed. Stay in touch with your insurance agent or carrier for updates on the status of your claim.

How Soon Will You Get Paid from an Insurance Claim

By following these guidelines and partnering with a trusted insurance provider like Intelli Choice Insurance, you can confidently navigate the insurance claim process. No matter what life throws your way, rest assured that we're here to help protect your most valuable assets.
Don't hesitate to contact us today for assistance with the claim process. Our team of knowledgeable experts is ready to support you every step of the way.

Homeowners Insurance May Not Cover You in the Case of Flooding
/ By Charlene Echerivel / Disaster Coverage/ • / 0 Comments

Homeowner’s Insurance May Not Cover You In The Case of Floods

Homeowners Insurance May Not Cover You in the Case of Flooding

Homeowner's insurance is a great way to cover your property in case of disasters like theft, fire, and hail. However, floods in the United States cumulatively cause billions of dollars of damage per year, and yet they are almost never covered by standard homeowner's policies. If you live in an area prone to flooding you may be taking an unnecessary risk by passing up flood insurance, which can not only protect the value of your home but your possessions inside as well. If you are planning to buy a home in a potential flood zone as designated by FEMA, your lender may even require that you maintain active flood insurance.

WHY FLOOD INSURANCE MAY BE REQUIRED IN THE GREATER CINCINNATI AREA

Many areas of Cincinnati are particularly vulnerable to flooding due to their low-lying landscape and proximity to bodies of water such as the Little Miami River. During extreme weather events, these areas can quickly become overwhelmed and massive damage can result.

Flooding may not be covered

FEBRUARY IS ONE OF THE WORST MONTHS FOR FLOODS DUE TO SNOW MELTS

Snow melt-offs can be particularly devastating and can trigger flash floods; the Ohio River has a documented history of reaching flood levels over the first half of the year. If the temperature rises too quickly following a heavy snowfall, a rapid thawing process can result in quickly rising streams and rivers. This is especially true in areas with high elevation, as the melting snow has nowhere else to go but downstream. If the precipitation continues in the form of rain following the melt-off, this can exacerbate the problem and catastrophic flooding conditions can ensue. Additionally, run-off from urban streets and other impermeable surfaces can feed into bodies of water, causing them to overflow their banks even more quickly.

HOW YOU CAN PROTECT YOURSELF

Flooding can cause massive damage to not only your possessions but also the support system and infrastructure of your home. Intelli Choice Insurance is in the business of providing peace of mind that you will be covered whenever disaster strikes.

As a Dave Ramsey endorsed provider, our processes and service have been reviewed to ensure that they are worthy of this recommendation and carry a client-centered mentality. Please feel free to reach out for a quote and to ask any questions about how we can best cover you.

What Homeowner’s Insurance Coverage Should I Have
/ By Charlene Echerivel / Disaster Coverage • Home Insurance/ / 0 Comments

What Homeowner’s Insurance Coverage Should I Have

What Homeowner’s Insurance Coverage Should I Have

As a homeowner, it's important to have adequate insurance coverage to protect your investment and personal belongings in the event of an unexpected event such as a fire, theft, or natural disaster. While insurance policies can be complex and vary depending on your specific needs, here are some key areas to consider when choosing your homeowner's insurance coverage:

This coverage is designed to protect the physical structure of your home in case of damage or destruction. It includes repairs or rebuilding of the house, as well as any attached structures such as garages, decks, or porches. The amount of dwelling coverage you need should be based on the estimated cost of rebuilding your home, not the current market value.

Dwelling coverage

This coverage is intended to protect your personal belongings, such as furniture, electronics, clothing, and jewelry, in the event of theft, fire, or other covered events. The amount of personal property coverage you need will depend on the value of your belongings, and it's important to take inventory and document everything you own to ensure adequate coverage.

Liability coverage protects you in case someone is injured on your property, or if you or a family member accidentally cause damage to someone else's property. This coverage can also provide legal representation if you are sued. Liability coverage typically starts at $100,000, but many experts recommend purchasing at least $300,000 in coverage.

Liability coverage

If your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss, additional living expenses coverage can help pay for temporary housing, food, and other living expenses until your home is repaired or rebuilt.

Depending on your location, you may need to purchase separate flood insurance coverage to protect your home and personal belongings from flood damage. Standard homeowner's insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage.

Flood insurance

Similarly, if you live in an area prone to earthquakes, you may need to purchase separate earthquake insurance coverage.

In addition to these key areas of coverage, there may be other options available to you depending on your needs, such as scheduled personal property coverage for high-value items, or identity theft coverage. It's important to work with an experienced insurance agent who can help you assess your specific needs and ensure that you have adequate coverage in place to protect your home and assets.

Surprising Things Insurance Will Not Cover
/ By Charlene Echerivel / Commercial Insurance • Disaster Coverage • Home Insurance • Life Insurance • Personal Insurance • Vehicle Insurance/ • • / 0 Comments

Surprising Things Insurance Will Not Cover

Surprising Things Insurance Will Not Cover

Insurance is a type of contract that provides financial protection to the policyholder against future uncertainties. It is designed to help individuals and businesses manage risks and minimize potential financial losses. However, there are some surprising things that insurance may not cover, which individuals should be aware of to avoid being caught off guard.

Intentional Acts

One of the surprising things that insurance may not cover is intentional acts. Insurance policies typically cover accidental damage or loss, but they do not cover intentional acts. For instance, if you deliberately damage your own property or cause harm to another person or their property, your insurance policy may not provide coverage.

Intentional Acts are not covered by insurance

Natural Disasters

Another thing that insurance may not cover is certain types of natural disasters. While most insurance policies cover natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods, there are some events that may not be covered. For instance, some policies do not cover damage caused by landslides, sinkholes, or volcanic eruptions.

Pests or Insects

Insurance may also not cover damages caused by pests or insects. If your home is infested with termites or rodents, your insurance policy may not cover the damage caused by these pests. This is because insurance policies typically do not cover damages caused by wear and tear or neglect.

pests or insects are not covered by insurance

Cybercrime

Additionally, insurance may not cover damages caused by cybercrime. If your personal or business information is stolen or hacked, your insurance policy may not cover the resulting financial losses. While some insurance companies offer cyber insurance policies, they may not cover all types of cybercrime.

Damage Caused by Recreational Vehicles

Lastly, insurance may not cover damages caused by certain types of vehicles. If you own a recreational vehicle or a high-performance sports car, your insurance policy may not cover damages caused by these vehicles. This is because these vehicles are considered high-risk and may require additional coverage.

In conclusion, insurance is an essential tool to manage risks and protect against financial losses. However, it is important to understand what insurance policies cover and what they do not. Knowing what insurance may not cover can help individuals and businesses make informed decisions about their insurance needs and take appropriate measures to minimize potential financial losses.

3 Surprising Things Insurance Can Cover
/ By Charlene Echerivel / Commercial Insurance • Disaster Coverage • Personal Insurance/ / 0 Comments

3 Surprising Things Insurance Can Cover

3 Surprising Things Insurance Can Cover

The Unusual Trio: 3 Surprising Things Insurance Can Cover

When it comes to insurance, many people think about the standard types such as life, auto, and health. However, insurance policies can cover a wide array of unique and unexpected situations.

Here are three surprising things that some insurance policies cover, which showcase the versatility of the industry and might inspire you to look more closely at your insurance options.

Alien Abduction Insurance

Believe it or not, some insurers offer coverage for alien abductions. This unusual policy was first introduced in the 1980s and has gained traction over the years, primarily as a novelty item. Policyholders who can provide proof of their extraterrestrial experience, such as an implant or eyewitness accounts, may receive compensation. While the likelihood of needing this type of coverage is extremely low, it highlights the creativity and variety in the insurance market.

Alien Abduction Insurance Coverage

Food Spoilage Coverage

No one likes to see their groceries go to waste, but did you know that some insurance policies will cover the cost of spoiled food? In cases where a power outage or appliance failure leads to food spoilage, specific home insurance policies may cover the costs of the lost groceries. This unique coverage is a prime example of the many additional benefits that can be found in various insurance policies, beyond the standard protections.

Volcanic Eruption Coverage

While most people don't live near an active volcano, those who do may find themselves with the unique option of volcanic eruption coverage. This specific coverage can protect against damages caused by lava flows, ash, and other volcanic hazards. While it's a highly specialized form of coverage, it demonstrates the importance of tailoring insurance policies to address unique risks in specific geographic locations.

Volcanic Eruption Coverage

Unconventional Insurance Coverage Options: Protecting Against the Unexpected with Intelli Choice Insurance

These examples of surprising coverage options highlight the diversity of the insurance industry and emphasize the need for potential policyholders to fully explore their options. As a Dave Ramsey Trusted Provider, Intelli Choice Insurance is committed to helping customers find the best rates and coverage for their unique situations.

Contact us today to discover the perfect insurance policy for your needs, whether you're looking for protection against alien abductions, spoiled groceries, or something more conventional. Visit our website  and explore our blog for more helpful tips and information.

Does My Insurance Policy Cover Floods
/ By Charlene Echerivel / Disaster Coverage • Home Insurance/ • / 0 Comments

Does My Insurance Policy Cover Floods? Get the Facts on Floods Insurance Coverage

Does My Insurance Policy Cover Floods

Flood insurance policies protect homeowners, renters, and businesses from damages and property losses caused by natural floods. If, for example, your hot water heater goes out and floods your basement, flood insurance would not cover the damages but your homeowner's policy might. If heavy rain causes a river to rise and flood your home, flood insurance will cover it, but your homeowner's policy will not.

Importance of Flood Insurance

Flood insurance minimizes socio-economic flood impacts, especially in areas prone to flooding. Even living in areas with a low risk of flooding, it is still worth considering purchasing a policy to protect yourself and your property from potential damages.
Here are some key reasons why you have flood insurance:
It helps cover the costs of repairing or rebuilding damaged properties when a home or a business
It provides financial protection for your home, business, and property in case of floods
It covers the cost of temporary living arrangements if your home is uninhabitable after floods
It covers the cost of cleaning up debris and other damages caused by floods.
It also provides peace of mind knowing that you're financially protected against the potential devastation of a flood

Importance of Flood Insurance

Obtaining Flood Insurance

Flood insurance is not typically included as part of residential insurance or standard insurance policy. Flood insurance is a separate policy and requires a separate purchase. Depending on the coverage you choose, your flood insurance can cover a variety of damage, including but not limited to:
The physical structure of your home or business
Electrical and plumbing systems
Built-in appliance
Personal property such as furniture, clothing, electronic equipment, stock, and inventory
The cost of flood insurance depends on factors such as the amount of coverage you purchase, the location of your home or business, and any additional riders you opt for. To get the full protection of your policy, you must purchase it before any flooding occurs. Our experienced agents can help you assess your unique needs and provide a policy that fits your budget and coverage requirements.

Do I Need Flood Insurance?

People in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana need flood insurance because the region is particularly prone to flooding due to the Ohio River. Floods can cause devastating property damage, and homeowners must be prepared with flood insurance coverage to protect their homes and possessions. With the proper insurance coverage, people in Greater Cincinnati can get the help they need should a flood occur. Intelli Choice Insurance offers flood insurance policies to give property owners along the Ohio River peace of mind and financial security in case of flooding.

Do I need flood insurance

Get the Knowledge! Take Action to Be Covered

If you're looking for flood insurance coverage, Intelli Choice Insurance offers policies tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today for professional assistance and personalized insurance policies from our experienced experts.