Insurance

Debt Settlement Act 2010 - Why Debt Settlement May Now Be The Cheapest Option

noreply@blogger.com (Ahmad) — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 01:30:00 -0800

Debt Settlement Act 2010 - Why Debt Settlement May Now Be The Cheapest Option

The method of debt settlement is really getting much public fame from the last few years. It has been seen that with each passing day, more and more people are selecting this method for the solution of their payable balances.
Although this process brings fast and speedy reduction in the amount of dues but still people are afraid to select this option. The reason for this is that people have a fear that whether the companies which they are selecting are genuine and will take them out from the vicious circle of debt or not. Due to this fear, people start moving towards the option of bankruptcy. They consider this method more reliable and authentic. Bankruptcy is just making the financial structure of lenders and borrowers weaker. In fact, it is true to say that due to this option the economy is moving towards more fiscal crises. The state administration understands this need and that is why it has introduced debt settlement act 2010. Due to this act, the debt settlement is now considered as the cheapest option.
According to the new act of the settlement, the negotiation company is not eligible for asking the upfront fees. The company is liable to ask for the service charges only after the proper and successful handling of its customer's case. These amendments have really attracted the attention of many customers. Now they are selecting debt settlement with more faith and confidence. In fact it is true to say that new rules and regulation of financial settlement have now become the cheap way for the elimination of unsecured debts.
These changes are really encouraging the people towards the option of settlement. Via these modifications, people are now getting aware about the whole procedure of the negotiation/settlement. It is absolutely true to state that this process is getting more transparent and clear to the consumer after the changes in the terms and conditions of the financial settlement.
In order to take complete advantage of this facility, it is advisable that a person should concern the debt relief networks in this regard. Always keep this thing in mind that only genuine and reliable companies are obeying the new act of debt settlement.

If you have over $10,000 in unsecured debt it may be a wise financial decision to consider a debt settlement. Due to the recession and overwhelming amount of people in debt, creditors are having no choice but to agree to debt settlement deals. To find legitimate debt reduction help in your state and get free debt advice then check out the following link.

About the Author

By: archerfraizer

freedebtsettlementadvice.com is a matchmaker in the debt settlement industry. They have paired up thousands of consumers up with debt settlement companies who are most likely to get consumers the best deal.

http://www.freedebtsettlementadvice.com

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Symptoms and Signs of Brain Cancer and Treatment

noreply@blogger.com (Ahmad) — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 00:32:00 -0800

Every individual having brain tumors should receive unique and individual brain cancer treatment. The treatment generally depends on the individual's age, general health, and size and location of the tumor.

There are several questions surrounding brain cancer treatment. The nature of treatment, its effects, and the long-term outcomes are some of them. Doctors are best equipped to handle these questions.
Overview of brain cancer treatment
Brain cancer treatment is generally complex. Some treatment plans will require multiple doctors.
1. The medical team usually comprises neurosurgeons, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and a general practitioner. Individuals may also want to include a dietitian, social worker, and physiotherapists.
2. The nature of the treatment will depend on location, size and type of the tumor. Existing medical conditions and age are other factors that need considerations when deciding the nature of treatment.
Brain Cancer Surgery
Most individuals who have a brain tumor are required to undergo surgery.
1. Surgery helps confirm the abnormality seen in the brain scans. Nature of the tumor and method of removal are also determined at the time of surgery. Surgeons will most probably take a sample of the tumor that needs to be removed.
2. When it comes to benign tumors, most symptoms vanish with the removal of the tumor.
3. A modern method for removal of tumors can be performed without a knife and is called stereotactic surgery. The tumor is removed without opening the skull. MRI and CT scans are used to determine the exact location of the tumor within the brain. Radiation beams are focused on the tumor from different directions. Radiation helps destroy the tumor. This method is also known as 'gamma knife'.
4. Knifeless surgeries have fewer complications. The recovery time, too, is much shorter.
Before surgery, individuals may have to undergo several treatment plans.
1. Administration of dexamethasone helps reduce swelling. It is also a steroid drug.
2. Treatment with anticonvulsant drugs, such as carbamazepine, relieves seizures. It also prevents its formation.
3. Excessive cerebrospinal fluid around the brain can be drained away by a thick plastic tube known as a shunt. One end of the shunt is fixed in the cavity where the fluid gathers. The other end is threaded under the skin to another body part. The fluid drains into a site from where it can be easily eliminated.
Brain Cancer Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, involves usage of high-energy rays to destroy cells of the tumor. This prevents tumors from growing and multiplying.
1. Individuals who cannot undergo surgery are prescribed radiation therapy. In some cases, it may be used after surgery to destroy tumor cells.
2. Radiation therapy is local in nature, which means that only targeted cells are affected. Other brain and body cells are not affected.
Palliative treatments are designed to elevate the comfort levels of the patient. It also helps ease pain. Patients can also explore the field of latest treatments by signing up for clinical trials.

Alvis Walter is a cancer consultant and a guide for Brain Cancer Treatment. To know more information about Male Breast Cancer, Gamma Knife, malignant mesothelioma, mesothelioma symptoms, Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Mantle Cell Lymphoma visit http://www.cancery.com

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Life Insurance Awareness Month

noreply@blogger.com (Ahmad) — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 00:09:00 -0800

Life Insurance Awareness Month

September is observed as the Life Insurance Awareness Month (LIAM) across the country. It serves as an annual reminder to Americans about their life insurance needs, to make them understand the importance of including life insurance in their financial plan and if they already have insurance, to revisit their policy and make sure they have the best possible coverage.

However, there is little to celebrate this year as far as life insurance is concerned. According to the 2010 Life Insurance Ownership Study conducted by the Life Insurance and Market Research Association or LIMRA as it's more popularly known:

As many as 30 percent (35 million) U.S. households have no life insurance protection at all.
Only 44 percent (58 million) U.S. households have individual life insurance policy, the lowest number in 50 years.
About 11 million households with children less than 18 years of age have no life insurance coverage.

The figures portray a grim picture of America's life insurance status and that's not going to change unless there is a concentrated effort through campaigns like LIAM to spread awareness about the necessity of having life insurance protection.

In its seventh year now, LIAM has taken up the challenge of educating the American public about their need for coverage. The initiative is sponsored by a non-profit organization called LIFE in association with over 100 top insurance companies and industry groups in the country.

However, this year marks a deviation from the previous ones as the challenges facing the life insurance industry are much greater. An uncertain job market, failing real estate sector, and an overall depressed economy have put a huge financial strain on an average American family. People already struggling to pay their daily bills have little left over resources to buy life insurance.

According to the LIMRA study, one in four U.S. households depend solely on group life insurance for coverage, which means they will have no coverage if they lose their jobs or quit.

While the reasons for not purchasing life insurance are legitimate, what people fail to see is not having coverage leaves their family just one accident or illness away from a financial catastrophe. If the primary breadwinner was to pass away at this stage, it'll be nothing short of a financial disaster for his or her family.

Aside from the emotional trauma they will go through, the family will lose its only source of income, might have to suffer the ignominy of losing the family home, may not have sufficient funds for the kids to go to college, and could even struggle to pay for the funeral and other final expenses.

As morbid as that sounds, it's not far removed from reality for many American families. The study conducted by LIMRA, in fact, reported that four out of 10 households with kids aged 18 years or less admit that they would immediately have trouble taking care of everyday living expenses if the primary breadwinner was to die unexpectedly.

However, there are many reasons other than a poor economy that keeps Americans from making this critical purchase and top amongst these are.

Procrastination: For so many people who can well afford and want life insurance, it's nothing but inertia and procrastination that keeps them from buying a policy. Getting life insurance remains a "to-do" item in their list that keeps waiting to be ticked off. Weeks turn into months and months into years, but "tomorrow" never comes. What they forget is there is no guarantee there will be a "tomorrow" for them at all and the sooner they secure the financial wellbeing of their family, the more peaceful their "today" will be.

Low Priority: Many Americans prioritize paying off their debts and putting money aside for retirement over getting life insurance. Even though recession has changed the spending habits of Americans and people are saving more to safeguard their future, life insurance does not necessarily figure in their financial goals.

Lack of Awareness: Some people are just not aware of the impact life insurance coverage can have on their lives if the main wage earner of their family was to die prematurely. That's where initiatives like LIAM are so important in educating people about what life insurance can do for them, how it can secure their financial stability by ensuring debts and mortgages are paid off, there is a regular stream of income coming into the household, and there are sufficient funds to support kids' education.

Complexity of Products: There are so many life insurance products in the market and sometimes having too much choice can be counter-productive. Besides, life insurance is anything but an easy concept to grasp. More often than not, people need professional help to understand the different life insurance products and what they mean and can get easily overwhelmed by their complexity.

Procedural Hassles: Last but not the least is the fear of going through a long drawn procedure that can take anywhere between three to eight weeks or more. There are forms to fill, health exams to take, documents to furnish, etc. all of which make the process less than fun for consumers.

But in the end, we must realize life insurance is not for us, but for the ones we leave behind. Let's all take a pledge this Life insurance Awareness Month that we will overcome all obstacles in making sure they are taken care of even when we are not around!

About the Author

About AccuQuote:
AccuQuote is a leader in providing term life quotes to people across the United States. In 1986 it began operating with a single goal: to make the process of buying term life insurance as easy as possible for its customers. Their experienced professionals consistently deliver the most affordable term insurance rates by comparing thousands of life insurance policies from dozens of top-rated carriers.

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In Nations Worldwide, Mesothelioma Cases Increase

noreply@blogger.com (Ahmad) — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 01:36:00 -0800

In Nations Worldwide, Mesothelioma Cases Increase

Recent reports in the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada have indicated that the annual number of mesothelioma deaths is increasing. Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly form of lung cancer related to asbestos exposure. Exposure is often result of working in an industry, such as the insulation or automotive, which uses asbestos in manufacture or production. Because mesothelioma usually manifests 20 to 40 years after the first exposure, many reported cases derive from asbestos exposure that occurred in the 1960s and 1970s.

According to calculations by the Center for Disease Control, mesothelioma deaths are expected to peak around 2010 in the United States whereas in the United Kingdom, the Health and Safety Executive predicted mesothelioma cases would continue to rise until 2016. The Canadian government reported mesothelioma cases shot up 67 percent in the last 15 years. The number of mesothelioma cases amoung women is reported to rise as well, despite that men are more likely to develop the cancer.
The increase in mesothelioma cases is due to asbestos exposure that occurred 20 to 40 years ago. Once diagnosed, cancer patients have a grim prognosis, many only living for a few months. Additionally, asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma, which points to an occupational or environmental hazard present in the patients' lives prior to diagnosis.
Although optimism remains that the number of the cases is expected to decline as the residual impact of asbestos use subsides, asbestos-related diseases are debilitating and often the result of inadvertent exposure via an occupational hazard. Plumbers, electricians and electrical fitters, carpenters, and heating and ventilating engineers are the professions who run the risk of developing a disease related to asbestos according to reports in UK. However many death certificates do not record occupations of the patients dying from mesothelioma.
The slightest asbestos exposure can result in several potentially fatal medical conditions, including lung cancer, asbestosis or mesothelioma, despite the decrease in the commercial use of asbestos. Many who have been exposed to mesothelioma can seek compensation for costly medical bills with a mesothelioma lawsuit.
Mesothelioma litigation has risen in recent years as the population that was exposed to asbestos earlier in the twentieth century continues to age and the negative effects of asbestos become more prevalent. Mesothelioma treatment can be intense and expensive, which is why many mesothelioma patients seek mesothelioma legal counsel from experienced mesothelioma law firms. Although asbestos exposure has dropped in recent years, those exposed prior to the twenty-first century continue to suffer from the side effects.

About the Author

By: Katie Kelley

To learn more about whether you might be able to develop mesothelioma lawsuit visit http://mesothelioma.legalview.com/, or to learn the latest on other legal topics including Vytorin litigation visit http://www.LegalView.info/ .

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Individual Health Insurance Reform Future Proceedings Easy To Insure Me

noreply@blogger.com (Ahmad) — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 01:21:00 -0800

Individual Health Insurance Reform Future Proceedings Easy To Insure Me

This Week in Health Care Reform

Health care reform legislation passed the House this week on a party-line vote. Late Sunday night, House Democrats approved the Senate health care reform package, sending the legislation to President Obama for his signature. On Tuesday, President Obama signed the underlying bill into law, yet the House has yet to finalize the package of "fixes" that will alter the final implications of the legislation.

Health Care Reform Negotiations

House Democrats Pass Health Care Reform Package: The House of Representatives approved the Senate health care reform bill Sunday night by a vote of 219 to 212. The vote marks the climactic finale to a year-long debate over health care reform. In the final vote, 34 Democrats joined all House Republicans in voting against the measure. Shortly thereafter, the House also passed a package of "fixes," by a vote of 220-211, that was sent directly to the Senate for its approval through reconciliation. On Tuesday, President Obama signed into law the Senate health care reform bill, called the "Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act."

Republicans Force Senate to Send the Reconciliation Bill Back to the House: Shortly after the President signed the Senate bill into law, Senators began deliberations on the reconciliation bill. Reconciliation protocol restricts Senators to 20 hours of debate on the measure, but it does not limit the number of amendments that can be filed. In an expression of opposition to the bill, Republicans filed 29 amendments to the reconciliation package.

After 10 hours of continuous debate, Republicans were successful in eliminating two provisions related to college financial aid in the non-health care portion of the bill. The Senate parliamentarian ruled early Thursday morning that those two provisions violated the chamber's rules, sending the legislation back to the House for a new vote. As a result, on Thursday afternoon, the Senate voted on the reconciliation bill without those two provisions and sent the bill back to the House for a vote on final passage. The House vote will likely come Thursday evening.

What Does This Health Care Reform Legislation Mean: While the health care reform bill extends insurance coverage to 32 million more Americans by 2019, the legislation has other far-reaching implications that will be phased in sooner, during a multi-year implementation period.

Several features of the new health care overhaul bill that would take effect in 2010 under the measure passed Sunday include:

* New product requirements beginning 6 months after enactment, including:
o Coverage for dependents up to age 26
o No lifetime maximum benefit limits
o And no cost sharing on preventive care for certain policyholders
* Temporary federal high risk pools;
* Tax credits for small employers; and
* Prohibition on pre-existing condition exclusions for children (beginning 6 months after enactment).

Most Americans will have until 2014 to purchase insurance or pay a penalty. Other elements of the bill that will not take effect until at least 2014 include insurance marketplaces called "exchanges"; rules requiring insurers to accept all applicants regardless of pre-existing conditions, and an expansion of state Medicaid programs.

A number of experts question whether health care reform will really drive down insurance premiums. America's Health Insurance Plans ( AHIP), the trade group representing health insurers, outlines a series of concerns related to the legislation including a lack of provisions that address underlying health care costs, improve quality of care or ensure a stable risk pool. In addition, AHIP expressed concerns regarding new taxes on health coverage, which will likely increase premiums.

Additional Activities

Obama's Executive Order on Abortion Funding: On Sunday afternoon, prior to the final House vote on health care reform, President Obama agreed to issue an Executive Order that would uphold the ban on federal funding for abortion . In so doing, he secured about a half-dozen votes from anti-abortion Democrats, led by Rep. Bart Stupak (D-MI), who previously opposed the legislation. On Wednesday, President Obama signed the Executive Order banning the government from spending federal money to pay for abortions through plans offered on the insurance exchanges created under the measure.

States Filing Lawsuit to Fight Provision of Health Care Reform Bill: In response to the new health care reform legislation, states across the country have filed lawsuits asking the courts to declare the law unconstitutional and to bar its enforcement. On Monday,Attorneys General in 13 states, led by Florida, filed a joint lawsuit claiming that the new health care reforms violate state government rights in the U.S. Constitution and will force massive new spending on hard-pressed state governments. Joining Florida in the suit are Alabama, Colorado, Idaho, Louisiana, Michigan, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah and Washington.

At the same time, the Attorney General in Virginia filed a separate suit contending that Congress has exceeded its power in mandating that people buy health insurance. Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli argues that the new law's requirement clashes with Virginia law that exempts citizens from federal fines imposed for not having health insurance.

Senate Voting to Extend COBRA Until May 5: Senate Democrats plan another short-term extension of unemployment aid this week, setting up a face-off with Republicans, who are vowing to fight the extension if the $10 billion cost isn't offset with spending cuts. The bill, currently set to expire on April 5, would extend a series of emergency programs - including funding for unemployment insurance benefits and COBRA health coverage for the jobless - and would hold off a deep cut in reimbursement rates for doctors who serve Medicare patients. The long-term extension has already passed in both the House and Senate, but the two measures are not expected to be reconciled and sent to the President's desk until after the Easter recess.

President Obama Heads to Iowa to Speak on Health Care: President Obama headed to Iowa on Thursday to increase support for his health care legislation. This was President Obama'sfirst trip out ofWashington since signing health care reform legislation earlier this week. He spoke at the University of Iowa, in the city where he first announced his health care proposal during the Presidential campaign.

Public Opinion

Most Americans Want Republicans to Fight Health Care Reform Bill: In a recent CBS News poll, 62 percent of Americans said they want congressional Republicans to continue challenging the bill, while 33 percent said they should not. Disapproval of the bill has remained steady, with 46 percent saying they disapprove, including 32 percent who "strongly" disapprove. A majority of Americans continue to say that they find the bill to be confusing and do not understand what it means for them or their family.

American's Split on Health Care Reform Passage: In a recent USA Today/Gallup poll, 42 percent of Americans said they were angry or disappointed with the recent passage of health care reform legislation. When asked to reveal party affiliation, 79 percent identified themselves as Republicans.

Polling Shows Support for State Lawsuits Against Government: National polling reveals significant opposition to the individual mandate. In a newly released Rasmussen report , 53 percent of those polled oppose the new mandate requiring every American to buy or obtain health insurance. Further, 49 percent of voters are in favor of their state suing the federal government to fight the mandate. Fifty-one percent say individual states should have the right to opt out of the health care plan entirely.

Looking Ahead

After this week's final health care reform vote, President Obama plans to travel the country in the next few months to discuss the new law. Republicans have begun their own discussions of the law, with an eye towards the November elections.

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American Life Insurance-one of the Most Trusted Company

noreply@blogger.com (Ahmad) — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 00:35:00 -0800

American Life Insurance the most trusted company which has a reputation of about 87 years. This company is one of the globally recognized life insurance companies and it has a number of branches all over the world which has a vast customer line following. American Life Insurance gives various tax benefits to all its insurance policy holders and it also takes care of all your life insurance related policies like retirement insurance policy, wealth management policy, medical insurance, health insurance etc.

Life insurance basic terms as you know is an important factor in every person's life and when it comes to life insurance age is not the main criteria when it comes to get your life insured. American Life Insurance also known as AIG insurance company and majority of Americans has insured themselves with this life insurance company. The market value of this company is high and you can find the companies ratings in the financial books due to their vast financial transactions with other financial institutes.

There are two major life insurance policies that this AIG Insurance Company deals with i.e. the Term Life Insurance and Whole Life Insurance. In case of Term Life Insurance the policy taken is for a short period of time and Whole Life Insurance is where you get yourself insured for your whole life.

AIG insurance company is one such life insurance company that charters to the needs of the common person. One of the benefits of getting insured in this life insurance company is that you reap a rich harvest of life insurance benefits on all your life insurance policies which no other life insurance company provides you as this company provides you with the benefits when you are still alive.

This life insurance company in order to increase its relationship with their vast flowing customer's have started life insurance online services which has made it easy and convenient for them to get themselves and their family members insured staying within the very comforts of their own house. AIG Insurance is one of the most sought of companies and it is a tough competitor to other life insurance companies.

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Insurance

noreply@blogger.com (Ahmad) — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 03:22:00 -0800

According to law and economics insurance is a type of risk management principally exercised to circumvent the risk of potential loss. A company selling the insurance is called insurer. It has become a lucrative business around the globe. Insurance rates, which are used to determine the amount of premium, may vary from company to company. An uncomplicated example is life insurance. A person pays a certain amount of premiums to the insurer. When he dies a predefined amount is given to his family.

Types of Insurance
Nothing is predictable on this dangerous planet. Any accident can happen or any disease can attack us. So, we should be prepared for it. There are various types of insurance policies focusing different fields of life.
Health Insurance
Various insurers offer health insurance plans. If the insured person is injured due to accident or is sick then the medical expenses are paid by the insurer. There is a lawful indenture between the insurer and the insured person.
Dental Insurance
Insurance intended to disburse the expenses related to dental care is called dental insurance. Dental insurance helps people to cope with the pecuniary hardships caused by sudden dental costs.
Auto Insurance
The insurance purchased for cars, trucks, and all other auto mobiles is called auto insurance or automobile insurance. The principal benefit of car insurance is the provision of protection against the losses occurred due to traffic accidents. If an insured vehicle is damaged as a result of accident, the repairing costs are paid by insurer. Auto insurance companies also provide replacements, if the vehicle is totally destroyed. It is obligatory in many countries to purchase automobile insurance. One can choose the right car insurance by comparing auto insurance quotes provided by different companies.
Pet Insurance
If your insured pet is injured or suffering from illness, pet insurance will pay the veterinary expenses. Some pet insurance policies are also designed to pay if the insured pet dies, is lost or stolen. Pet insurance is mostly available in developed countries.
Travel Insurance
Insurance which is planned to tackle financial and other potential losses while travelling within your country or internationally is called travel insurance. Travel insurance mostly hedge against the risks like theft, loss, delayed baggage, emergency evacuation, damage to personal possessions, legal assistance, accidental death, overseas funeral expenses etc.
Life Insurance
In life insurance there is a contract between insured and insurer. According to that contract if the insured person dies the insurer will pay an amount of money to his family. In return the insured person will pay premium to insurer. There are two types of life insurance, protection policies and investment policies. Another life based insurance is term life insurance. The insurance coverage is provided for a limited time period. After that period, its insured choice that he want to drop the policy or cotinue indemnity by paying premiums for next term.
Many insurers are providing their services. Some of the well-known insurance companies are state farm insurance, allstate insurance, farmers insurance and progressive insurance.

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Insurance for Your Business

noreply@blogger.com (Ahmad) — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 03:21:00 -0800

The importance of insurance cannot be over-emphasized and neither can the danger of paying for insurance you don't need. It is strongly recommended you solicit the advice of an in-dependent business insurance agent. Don't forget to SHOP! Talk to three or four independent agents and compare notes and prices. An insurance agent will lay out a vast array of insurance coverage much of which you simply may not need. Your situation will be unique and you must consider each insurance element carefully to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Whatever your final insurance program looks like, you should review it at least every six months. Your business can change rapidly, especially in the first few years and insurance needs change with it. Keep your program up to date by calling in your agent and reviewing your coverage. Make changes where necessary.
LIABILITY INSURANCE
This is probably the most important element of your insurance program. Liability insurance provides protection from potential
losses resulting from injury or damage to others or their property. Just recall some of the big cash awards you have read about that have resulted from lawsuits concerning liability of one kind or another and you will understand the importance of this insurance. Your insurance agent can describe the various types of liability insurance coverage that are available. If you will end up with a comprehensive general policy, make certain that the general policy does not include items you don't need. Pay for only the insurance you need. For example, your business may not need product liability insurance.
Do not confuse business liability coverage with your personal liability coverage, both of which you need. Your personal coverage will not cover a business-generated liability. Check to be certain.
Compare the costs of different levels of coverage. In some cases a $2 million policy costs only slightly more than a $1 million policy. This economy of scale is true with most forms of insurance coverage. That is, after a certain value, additional insurance becomes very economical.
KEY PERSON INSURANCE
This type of insurance is particularly important for the sole proprietorship or partnership where the loss of one person through illness, accident, or death may render the business inoperative or severely limit its operations. This insurance, although not inexpensive, can provide protection for this situation. Key person insurance might also be necessary for others involved in your business.
SGC was a small firm run by three partners, a software programmer, marketer, and a general manager. Their product was a complex computer program used by aerospace firms. Al, the programmer, was involved in a severe automobile accident, became totally disabled, and SGC lost their programming capability. The problem was that the computer program written by Al was essentially the company's sole product. Modifications to accommodate the customer became impossible and the time to bring another programmer up to speed was excessive. SGC lost considerable business as a result of this situation. These losses could have been offset by key person insurance.
DISABILITY INSURANCE
You, as a business owner, should be covered by disability insurance whether or not you decide on key person insurance. This insurance, along with business-interruption insurance, described below, will help ensure your business will continue to operate in the unfortunate situation where you are unable to work. Your disability insurance policy needs to provide satisfactory coverage. Particular attention should be paid to the definition of "disability," delay time until payments start, when coverage terminates, and adjustments for inflation.
FIRE INSURANCE
Fire insurance, like all insurance is complicated and you should understand what IS and IS NOT covered. For example, a typical fire insurance policy covers the loss of contents but does not cover your losses from the fact that you may be out of business for 2-months while your facility is rebuilt. Fire insurance is mandatory whether you're working out of a home office or you have a separate facility. You should discuss a comprehensive policy with your agent. Take the time to understand the details. For example, will the contents be insured for their replacement value or for actual value at the time of loss?
Consider a co-insurance clause that will reduce the policy cost considerably. This means that the insurance carrier will require you to carry insurance equal to some percentage of the value of your property. (Usually around 85%.) With this type of clause it is very important that you review coverage frequently so you always meet the minimum percentage required. If this minimum is not met, a loss will not be paid no matter what its value.
If you are working out of your home, your existing homeowner's policy may not cover business property. If this is the case, have your insurance agent to add a home-office rider to your policy.
AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE
You probably already have automobile insurance but it might not include business use of your vehicle. Make sure that it does.
WORKER'S COMPENSATION INSURANCE
If you make the decision to hire employees, you will be required, in most states, to cover them under worker's compensation. The cost of this insurance varies widely and depends on the kind of work being performed and your accident history. It is important that you properly classify your employees to secure the lowest insurance rates. Work closely with your insurance agent.
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION INSURANCE
This protects against loss of revenue as the result of property damage. This insurance would be used, for instance, if you could not operate your business during the time repairs were being made as a result of a fire or in the event of the loss of a key supplier. The coverage can pay for salaries, taxes, and lost profits.
CREDIT INSURANCE
This will pay for unusual losses as the result of nonpayment of accounts receivables above a certain threshold. As with all policies, you must thoroughly understand the details so discuss it with your insurance agent. One of the largest providers of this coverage is American Credit Indemnity, Baltimore, MD. (800) 879 1224.
BURGLARY/ROBBERY/THEFT INSURANCE
Comprehensive policies are available that protect against loss from these perils, including by your own employees. Make certain you understand what is excluded from coverage.
RENT INSURANCE
This policy covers the cost of rent for other facilities in the event your property becomes damaged to the extent that operations cannot continue in your normal location.
DISABILITY INSURANCE
This insurance will pay you an amount each month slightly less than your current salary in the event you become disabled and are unable to work. Cost for this coverage varies considerably depending on your profession, salary level, how quickly benefits start, and when they end. Benefits paid are tax-free only if you, not your company, pay the premiums.
This list could be continued since it is possible to purchase insurance for just about any peril you can imagine ... if you can pay the premium! When considering your insurance coverage, use the following checklist:
INSURANCE COVERAGE CHECKLIST:
o Can you afford the loss?
o What coverage is required by Federal, state, or local law?
o What SPECIFIC items are covered by the policy?
o Are items to be insured for their replacement cost or original value?
o What SPECIFIC items are EXCLUDED by the policy?
o If there is a co-insurance clause, do you have adequate coverage?
o Have you chosen deductibles wisely in order to minimize costs?
o Do any of the policies you are considering duplicate or overlap one another?
o Do you need any insurance based on location, e.g., flood, earthquake?
Use the following checklist to review your insurance plans:
INSURANCE PLAN CHECKLIST:
o Employ an independent insurance agent rather than going to individual insurance companies. Ensure the agent shops for your insurance.
o Talk to and get quotations from at least THREE agents and pick the best one for you.
o Use money saving comprehensive policies, if possible.
o Perform periodic (every 6-months) reviews of your insurance program.
o Have business assets professionally appraised to determine coverage needs.
o Ensure existing personal insurance coverage includes business-related activities and add riders as necessary or obtain additional coverage.

http://www.TotalBusiness.com is a Website that provides business owners with the information they need in order to successfully start, manage, grow, and sell their businesses.
The site features over 3,000 articles and 60 guides on business topics such as starting a business, financing a business, sales and marketing, building a website, setting up an office, hiring employees, and selling a business. The site also contains articles on legal and accounting issues affecting businesses and allows business owners and entrepreneurs to get free expert advice from local lawyers or accountants. The site contains over 1,000 business forms and agreements that are helpful to business owners and provides a business directory with over 1,700 merchants who provide services specifically for small businesses.
Eran Salu, JD,MBA,CPA is the Founder and CEO of TotalBusiness.com

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Insurance For Beginners

noreply@blogger.com (Ahmad) — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 03:16:00 -0800

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the global business guide. In this context, we will be taking about the insurance industry, the general definition of insurance, adequate and precise explanation of the definition, brief talk about the history, the insurer, the insured, classes of insurance, the role of the underwriter in the industry and how you as an individual can benefit maximally when you get yourself, your car, your house, even that your business insure. We do hope you will enjoy reading this article and the essence of your quest for the topic above will be met.
Insurance is a financial institution classified as a non bank financial institution. They are important financial inter-mi diaries. It is believed to have originated from the ancient practices of inhabitants of the valleys of rivers Tigris and Euphrates in the present day Iraqi in about 4.000BC. History has it that in 1800BC, the Babylonians code of Hammurabi contained provisions which had elements of insurance in the laws that govern their commerce. But today what we have in the industry, both locally and internationally had moved from just an agreement between two persons into a very big industry across the globe.

Going by definition, we learn that insurance means a situation whereby someone protects his or herself against risk and reduce effects of uncertainties as well as distribute loss. Other explanation to this owe it to the situation whereby a certain amount of money when collected from someone by an insurance company agrees to pay a compensation or render services to that person if and whenever that person suffers the kind of loss specified in the insurance agreement; and from the explanation, this is where an insurance company comes into play since they are the people that will go into agreement with the person taking any insurance policy against any of his belongings. This industry has widely been believed as a means whereby people reduce the risk of unforeseen circumstances. As financial intermediaries, they act as middlemen between the surplus units and deficit units of the economy thereby sustaining the general growth of the economy.
One may ask, how do insurance companies generate the money used in compensating their policy holder when affected by any mishap? The answer to this question, will lead us into talking about the various means via which the insurance companies make their money and how their policy holders are compensated. The truth is that, the money they collect from their policy holder (i.e one that has an agreement with the insurance company) is invested in the form of premiums (an extra sum of money paid in addition to the normal cost of something. by BBC. Eng. dict) and that money is invested in Bonds, in stocks, mortgages (i.e house) and government securities (in our subsequent article, we will explain more of this: Bonds, stocks, mortgages and govt. securities). They generate income for themselves and those who are in their service. They invest their policy holder's money in better business that has short term maximum returns on investment and from there meet their numerous needs when needed in claims and losses. These funds themselves are invested, that not only do they earn interest to be added to the funds, but they also benefit the government, public authorities, and industries whose securities the investment are spread, because of the investment policy of the insurer (we will explain later), their reserve funds are not left idle butt are used productively.
Another way via which the insurance companies compensate those who are in their service is that the contribution of many is used to compensate the few among them who were affected by the misfortune insured against. So the loss of few people is share by many.
We hope that to this extend, you must have understood the above explanation about insurance company. Now the next thing we will be considering is the functions of the insurance companies.
Amongst other functions, the main function of the insurance company is risk bearing, the financial losses of individuals are judiciously distributed among many people, for example, in the case of fire, the policy holder in fire insurance pays a premium into a common pool, out of which those who suffer loss are compensated.
FUNCTIONS INCLUDE
1. The insurance industry encourages thrift (i.e money conservation) especially via it's life policies which provide funds for family, welfare and old age provisions. It provides employment opportunity for those that have the interest of working with the industry.
The insurance companies works hand in hand with commerce. It owes it's existence to commerce (i.e business in general both industrial etc) and commerce in return owes it's strong stability to insurance, this is because it helped in various ways to enhance the general trend in business.
Before we proceed further to other functions, let's explain this two terms: the insurer; the insured as it will aid us in our understanding.
The insured: This is the party affecting the insurance in other words, the individual or individuals which is taking the insurance policy. This can be done either directly or indirectly or via an agent or broker.
The insurer: This is the party providing the protection to cover by the policy. The insurer covers every other terms which includes the underwriter who is a senior official of an insurance company whose business lies in undertaking new business for the company.
The insurance company has a contract which promises to pay compensation at a future date for a consideration known as premium (i.e. the money paid by the insured to the insurer for the insurance cover provided in the policy). Like the way we have it in other contracts, i.e having it that contracts is based on the principles of offer and acceptance, consideration and capacity to contract. These contract, especially in insurance involves two parties i.e. the insurer and the insured.
FUNCTIONS 2
Insurer, by reason of their principal function accumulate large funds which they hold as custodians and out of which claims and losses are met. Like in some countries, their insurers operate in many parts of the world and earn vast sums in overseas market in terms of underwriting profit and investment income. This tells us that insurance forms a considerable part of that country's invisible exports.
As we continue in our functions, let's see the role of the insured and the insurer.
ROLES OF THE INSURED:
In insurance, when the proposer becomes insured the party effecting an insurance is known as the proposer throughout the negotiations, and until the contract is in full force. The insurer plays a vital role in making this aforementioned contract to come into force, knowing that in insurance contract, just like we said before is base on the principle of offer and acceptance, consideration and capacity to contract, the contracts are always evidenced in writing which is made up of various forms to be filled and signed. If the insured does not accept the insurance offer and giving meticulous consideration to that, there can hardly be capacity to contract i.e the insurance contract can never be. So, from this, we now learn that this two parties (i.e the insurer and the insured) must be involved before an insurance contract can becomes a policy.
ROLES OF THE INSURER
Here we are considering the roles of the insurer as a subsidiary functions of insurance; this is because in general sense (they have a very wide range of function), the insurer is the one providing the necessary insurance services, benefits to the insured, should any mishap, depending on the insurance policy undertaken. The insurer helps also in loss-prevention in the following ways:
We know that the extend to which loss prevention is seen, is mostly on property. An individual or a population can suffer great loss materially, if it were not for the intervention of loss prevention scheme by insurance companies to their policy holders.
The insurer also assists in boasting business venture: Many large -scale enterprise today can make their business in good faith, having transferred all their risk to the insurance company, in other words. The insurance companies help to maintain and to stabilize the atmosphere of the present day large-scale business and organizations.
Many questions had risen by on onlookers, as on how the policy holder can be compesated, should there be any mishap on the policy covered. It is better for us to note that the insurance company, when a loss is incurred to the policy holder can make for his or her loss, but that can only compensate him and make him return to his normal financial position before the occurrence of the incidence and not to profit him from the misfortune. This is generally because, no amount of financial compensation can pay adequately for the life and health of persons, so life and personal accidents are regarded as benefit policies. So let there be no misconception on this fact when mishap occurs, where the public is looking for the victim to be given everything lost, and having a meager compensation given to him or her. So let's not distrust insurance companies in this area, knowing that it's only the restoration to the exact position before the loss that is provided.
Now, as we have gone so far in understanding the functions of the insurance companies, the roles of the insured and the insurer, we will be proceeding forward to look at the various ways via which one can benefit from being insured in all spheres of life. For those who against all odds, accept insurance policy adequately, benefits, awaits them in areas like
1. pecuniary insurance
2. personal insurance
3. property insurance
4. liability insurance
We will take our time to give you enough explanation in all the sub-sections of these areas that will be of help to you.
1. PECUNIARY INSURANCE: This has to do with money or relating to something of such nature. This insurance policy benefits mostly company owners, directors, managers e.t.c This insurance policy provides cover to the employer against the loss of money unintentionally, or in a situation where an employee defrauds his or her employer on certain amount of money placed under his or her custody or in things relating to other occurrence/loss. Other policies under pecuniary insurance are; fidelity guarantee (known also as surety ship), legal expenses, credit insurance and business interruption insurance. All of these have their various function which in one way or the other relates to pecuniary. Like earlier stated, pecuniary insurance provides cover for C.E.O., M.D'S etc in case of loss of money either by intent or accident placed under the care of their employee or any officer of higher responsibility. These type of insurance cover, which their employee has will help to compensate them (i.e the employer's) and also ease the employee the fear and tension which the mishap might generate for him or her. It is therefore advisable you consider this policy very well as an MD, C.E.O. etc, especially with the assistance of your insurance broker so as to adequately know, and be directed properly on how to go about it.
2. PERSONAL INSURANCE
This involves all classes of life assurance and also accident policies. There are other types of person insurance, and the purpose of each is to meet the different need of individuals in their aim to provide for the future either for themselves or for their dependents. Other sub-divisions of personal insurance are:
i. Life assurance
ii. Personal accident and sickness insurance,
iii. Permanent health insurance,
iv. Social security
These sub-divisions has various similarities which come out at the end to meet the same aim, like in life assurance, personal accident and sickness insurance, this policy ensures that the policy holder when befallen by any misfortune, which resulted into permanent disability or death will still be able to fend for his or herself and also for his or her dependants in the case of death.
3. PROPERTY INSURANCE
Property insurance policy involves insurance cover for property should any risk of damage or loss by fire, accident, burglary or other risks that may occur. Under this, there are other sub-divisions which include:
i. Motor Insurance
ii. Marine Insurance
iii. Fire Insurance
iv. Burglary Insurance
v. Special peril Insurance
vi. All risk Insurance
In all these sub-divisions of property insurance, respective insurance cover is given to them all should there be any damage or loss relating to the type of policy the holder has.
4. LIABILITY INSURANCE
This provides cover for the insured against his legal liability to others. This can arise via negligence of the insured in failing to act in a reasonable manner. Such manners like crossing the road without properly looking on both side of the road which might result in accident. This may also arise via the insured's unlawful disturbance of another person in the enjoyment of his or property (i.e constituting a nuisance to them) or via the insured's trespass which is an unlawful act committed with force or violent on another person's property. Liability insurance is also sub-divided into employer's liability to his employee and public liability by the insured. The two sub-divisions of liability insurance owe their explanation to their respective liabilities, and since liability generally arises from lawsuits, liability policy covers only claims which the insured becomes legally obligated to.
We should also bear in mind that no insurance policy can prevent theft, fire, or other misfortune or the creation of legal liability, but can provide financial assistance in such situations. It does not also protect for example, the material property which is the subject matter of the insurance, but the financial interest of the insurer. This mean that the insurer can only get a financial compensation when any mishap happens to any thing insured against and not having the property restored back in case of fire or collapse (for building).
CONCLUSION
In all, we do hope that all these explanation will give you a better insight towards getting what you want on the good step to take while taking your insurance policy. But, always make sure that you don't do anything without first of all consulting your insurance broker ( who will take more time to tell you one-on-one the policy that will be suitable for you) before going to any insurance company knowing already that the cost of insurance is less than what would be the cost of insurance because the cost of insurance to industrialist for e.g is passed on to consumers along with other product cost and the consumers benefits from the existence of insurance via reduced prices. So make sure you get insured today. Till I see you again. Thank you.

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