Saturday, May 17, 2008

General Insurance Tips

General insurance sources of information include the American Council of Life Insurers, the Insurance Information Institute, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, and your state insurance department.

When buying insurance:

1. Check if your state insurance department provides all information concerning insurance companies and rates. It is a good way to get a sense of the price range and the lowest-cost providers in your area.

2. Check several sources for the best deal. Try to get price of a site as www.insweb.com, but be aware that many online services May provide prices for only a small number of companies. An independent insurance agent who works with several insurers in your area might be able to get a better deal.

3. Check the financial stability and soundness of the insurance company. Assessing pm Best, Standard & Poor's, Moody's Investors Services, and Weiss Ratings, Inc. are available online and at most public libraries.

4. Research register the complaint of society. Contact your State Insurance or visit the Web site of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners), which has a database of complaints filed with state regulators.

5. Learn what others think about the company customer service. Consumers can rate owner of insurance companies to www.jdpower.com / homes / insuranceratings.

6. When you pay your first insurance premium, make sure you receive a written policy. This means that the agent sent you your premium to the insurance company. If you do not receive a policy within 60 days, please contact your agent and the insurance company.