Happy New Year!  We hope you'll enjoy this edition of the Brooker Bulletin, which is distributed quarterly and contains useful tips and helpful information for you and your family.

 

As part of your new year's resolutions, why not set aside some time to evaluate your insurance coverage.  Auto, home, life and other insurance needs change over time as you move, switch jobs, add to your family, change vehicles and grow older.   When you have to use your insurance, the last thing you'll want to learn is that you don't have enough coverage.  On the flip side, you'll also want to make sure you aren't carrying more insurance than you really need.   A quick review of your current policies will help determine if any coverage changes should be made.  Your agent can help you determine if your coverage levels are properly aligned with your needs.

 
Auto Insurance - Check your auto insurance policy to make sure your collision, comprehensive and liability coverages are appropriate for your situation.  Trimming expenses is often a popular new year's resolution, but making the wrong choices  can result in being dangerously under-insured. Don't hesitate to contact your insurance agent to request a review of your policy.  In addition, you should also make a resolution to always drive carefully -- you can save money on your insurance by maintaining a clean driving record.

Homeowners Insurance - The start 0f a new year is a great time to update an inventory of your possessions.  After the holidays, you likely have new things in the house.  You'll need an accurate list of your belongings if you ever need to make a home insurance claim.   If you don't want to take the time to make a written list, consider videotaping the contents of your home.    There are also free smartphone apps that can help take some of the headache out of the inventory process.  The Ohio Department of Insurance recommends the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) app (myHOME Scr.APP.book) .

Health Insurance - Given the many changes in the health insurance industry, the best decision you can make is to resolve to become more educated and informed about your health care.  Track you medical expenses this year to see whether or not you are utilizing the benefits you are paying for.  Investigate and understand all your options for protecting your family. And remember that should you incur a high medical expense that exceeds your coverage, some (but not all) medical practices or facilities may  be willing to negotiate with you on payment terms.