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Shopping for Individual Health Insurance in CT

Having health coverage helps you save a considerable amount of money on medical bills. If your employer doesn’t offer any health insurance plans or if your plan doesn’t include your spouse or dependents, you’ll have to do some shopping on your own to find individual health insurance or family medical insurance in Norwich, Connecticut.

When you’re comparing health insurance plans, it’s important to determine what type of coverage you need. Some common options you’ll find in CT include the following.

Individual Health Insurance and Family Medical Insurance

These health insurance plans are mainly for those who aren’t able to sign up for health coverage through their employer, those who are self-employed, or those who need to find coverage for spouses or dependents who aren’t covered through their employer’s group plan. Individual and family plans also benefit those who want to find coverage with lower premiums or those who need a plan that offers better coverage for their medical needs.

Short Term Medical Insurance

Short-term medical insurance provides health coverage for a certain amount of time, which can range from one month to one year. Those who typically benefit from this type of coverage are those who are waiting for a group plan to go into effect and those who are currently unemployed but looking for work; such as recent college graduates and those who are between jobs.

Health Discount Cards

These cards aren’t meant to replace health coverage. Instead, they provide discounts on prescriptions and certain medical services. They are sometimes used to supplement coverage for those on plans that have high deductibles for prescriptions or other medical services.

Health Savings Accounts

HSAs are savings accounts that can be used to save for retirement and pay for medical services. They’re paired with certain high-deductible health plans. Those with an HSA can use pre-tax dollars for eligible medical expenses, deduct all of their HSA contributions on their taxable income and save HSA money tax-free.

Finding the right health insurance in Connecticut can be difficult if you’re not sure what to look for. Call Waitte’s Insurance Agency, Inc. today at (860) 886-1961 to discuss the types of individual health plans that are available, and what works best for you and your family.

Discounted Insurance for Veterans

Veterans have risked their very lives to keep our country free. As a result, who better than our veterans to earn a discount when it comes to their home and auto insurance needs? Thankfully, there are many types of insurance discounts available for those who have fought so bravely to keep America safe.

Motor Vehicle / Auto Insurance Discounts:

This type of benefit entitles veterans to receive premium discounts on vehicles, such as sports bikes, motorcycles and cars. Some insurance companies are able to provide a discount of up to 20 percent off a veteran’s premium for vehicle coverage. Although minimum auto insurance is required in most states, it is a good idea to acquire more coverage than the minimum required when possible. Thankfully, due to the discount offered to veterans, they should be able to afford a plan that covers everything from bumper to bumper.

Home Insurance Discounts

In addition to discounts on motor vehicle insurance, many insurance companies will also discount a veteran’s home owner’s insurance policy. As a result, many veterans who have little to no coverage on their homes currently can acquire the protection for their homes that they deserve. An adequate home owner’s plan will provide enough coverage to replace the home that is covered, along with all the treasured mementos that lie within. It is a good idea to ask for additional coverage for specific items of value, such as collectibles, jewelry and the like.

Combining the Plans:

As is the case with many insurance bundles, veterans are often eligible for even more savings if they combine their home and auto policies by purchasing them through the same agency. Veterans who are attempting to find the best deal should explore this option when pricing plans, as it oftentimes will make already affordable plans even less strenuous.

If you have served in the military at any point during your lifetime, it is worth asking our office about possible military veteran’s benefits. After all, we want to reward those who have worked so hard to keep us safe. Therefore, a simple discount is the least we can do.   Call Waitte’s Insurance Agency today at (860) 886-1961 to inquire about further discounts for our nations heroes.

Prepare For When Blizzard Problems Become Flooding Problems

It has been a brutal winter in the Eastern part of the United States with New England states receiving the brunt of the snow and nasty weather.  In one day, Worcester Massachusetts had 31.9 inches of snow on January 27th, which came on top of several other feet of snow this winter.  Thompson, Connecticut had over 30 inches on that day too.  Communities and states went from worrying about trying to dig out from the snow to trying to figure out where they were going to put it all when they did remove it.

Although most New Englander’s may not think so right now, there is another problem around the corner that could be as bad as snow:  eventually the snow will melt and municipalities and their citizens will have to face the problem of flooding.  People who live near rivers and along the coast face dangers of melting snow and ice creating run-off conditions that can cause as much or more damage to homes than the excessive snow from this winter.

In preparation for impending urban flooding due to the snow, there are things that homeowners can do to in advance:

*Check for flood insurance policies to ensure you have appropriate coverage in case flooding does occur and you’ll be covered for property damage.
*Move snow away from your home’s foundation to keep water from running into the basement when the snow does begin to melt at a fast rate.
*Clear drains and downspouts so water can go where intended and not create a backup of melted water.
*Remove area rugs and store them so that they won’t get wet and mold won’t grow on them.
*Make certain that sump pumps are working appropriately.
*Know where the electricity shutoff is so that if your home does flood, you can make your home safer.
*Have an emergency preparedness kit ready.

While you’re checking your insurance policies to ensure you’re covered for flooding, double check to be certain you have appropriate coverage for storms too.  It may not seem like it when we’re still digging out from the yet another blizzard, but flood and storm season really are right around the corner.

Waitte’s Insurance doesn’t want you to get blindsided by the potential disastrous costs of property damage due to melting snow. Insure your property from mother nature by reviewing your current policy, or call our office at (860) 886-1961 to see which flood insurance policy could save you money and aggravation come Springtime.

Knowing the Factors that Determine Your Car Insurance Premium

You may be the world’s safest driver, yet your car insurance premium rates are higher due to factors you can’t control. Is this fair? No, but it’s reality that most insurance companies use various parameters to set their rates for auto insurance.

Understanding each factor that determines coverage rates in Connecticut and elsewhere can give you a leg up when it comes to finding the best policy.

Marital status, age and gender

Rates reflect the fact that older drivers typically are involved in fewer accidents. Women also have fewer accidents, and their rates reflect it. Statistics show that single people are more likely than married individuals to be in a wreck, so singletons pay more.

Location and driving consistency

The area where you live determines in part your car insurance premium rates. Higher rates of property crimes can increase your rates. Of course, your rates also will be higher if you routinely drive long distances.

Credit score

Studies show credit scores to be useful in determining the chances of insurance claims. Payment history, bankruptcies and debt levels all play a part in insurance rate calculations.

Driving record

Speeding tickets, DUIs and accidents all raise your coverage rates. Locals of Norwich, and drivers throughout the entire state of Connecticut, should note that all information related to a DUI stays on your record for a decade, and your insurance company may check your record at any time. Experts note that your rates likely will increase by 20 to 60 percent after a DUI, or your policy may be canceled.

Type of car

The value of your car and its safety record also helps determine your rates. Knowing the deciding factors that go into setting car insurance premium rates, and working to control what you can, will save you money in the long run.  Whether that’s driving a less-expensive vehicle, reducing your speed or moving to a lower-crime area, the savings add up.

Are you unsure as to how your driving record or any of these factors will impact your insurance premium? Let Waitte’s Insurance Agency calculate an insurance rate that is best suited for you. For a free rate quote, Click Here!

Essentials in Preparing Your Motorcycle for Scenic Connecticut Roads

The Winter winds are finally subsiding and the warm open road is waiting for you to get out and ride! But after leaving your ride in storage for the Winter, it’s important when preparing your motorcycle to check all of your safety equipment and review the laws and regulations to ensure your next road trip ends safely.

Motorcycle Laws and Regulations in CT

There are some important motorcycle safety regulations to keep in mind before you take yours out on the Connecticut roads. Eye protection is mandatory unless your vehicle has a windscreen, and if your bike was manufactured after 1980, daytime headlight use is required. Also, remember that riding two abreast in one lane is prohibited.

Licensing Courses

The Connecticut Rider Education Program for Motorcycle Safety offers four skill levels of courses which are available to all riders. You may also be eligible for a 10% discount on your motorcycle insurance policy by completing a rider education course in Connecticut.

Equipment Requirements

Although Connecticut law does not require motorcycle operators over the age of 18 to wear a helmet, doing so is one of the most crucial steps you can take to ensure your safety! According to state motorcycle accident statistics, in more than two-thirds of fatal motorcycle crashes the driver wasn’t wearing a helmet. Don’t skip this simple and essential step! Other requirements in Connecticut include having at least one rear-view mirror and a properly functioning muffler.

Restrictions for Riders Under 18

Riders under the age of 18 years old MUST wear a helmet at all times and are also required to complete a rider education course.

Insurance Requirements

Before you bask in the Spring sunshine, take the time to review your motorcycle insurance policy to make any necessary updates. A compulsory liability insurance policy is the minimum requirement in the state of Connecticut.

Does your current motorcycle insurance policy need to be reviewed or updated? Before you begin preparing your motorcycle for the beauty that New England has to offer during the Spring, contact Waitte’s Insurance Agency today and receive a premium quote!

Health Insurance for Smokers: Quit Before Your Rates Skyrocket!

If you are a smoker, you can pretty much bet on an increase in the premium you pay for health insurance. Many agencies are cracking down on health insurance for smokers because, in the long run, smokers are more costly to care for when it comes to their health. But how do you know if you qualify as a smoker? In Connecticut, you are a tobacco user if you have used tobacco 4 or more days during one week in the past 6 months. If you are quitting or only use tobacco occasionally, you may not even qualify as a smoker. This is important to understand as it could save you a lot of money.

How much more money will tobacco cost you when it comes to health insurance? According to the Affordable Care Act, you can be charged up to 50% more for your premium. This is called a tobacco surcharge and it is starting to apply to premiums offered by many companies. But in reality, it costs you much more than that. Smoking can cost you your health in general. Even if you can afford the insurance premium, it can cause things such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, emphysema, and respiratory complications. So is it really worth it to be a smoker?

The costs for premiums go up so much because not only does the cost of healthcare increase over time for a smoker, but it also serves as an incentive to quit. Many smokers are looking at other options so that they can improve their health and save money over time on their health insurance premiums. Smokers can also save money on premiums by joining programs to help them quit. Such programs are offered by ObamaCare as well as other insurance carriers. Now is the time to quit. You could save your life and you will definitely be saving money.

Are you a former smoker who has successfully kicked the habit for good? Please share your experience in the box below to not only help others save money on health insurance, but aid them in becoming healthier as well!

The Rose of New England: An Historic Overview of Norwich

The city of Norwich, Connecticut, also known as “The Rose of New England”, was founded in 1659 by settlers from Saybrook. The land was purchased from Chief Uncas of the “Mohegan Native American Tribe”. This Native American tribe originated in upstate New York as the Mohegans and later became The Mohegan Tribe after moving into Connecticut.

As one of the first Connecticut cities, Norwich was incorporated in 1784. Textile factories were common, due to the available water supply of the Yantic and Shetucket rivers. Thanks to the ship trading between Boston and New York, Norwich became a prosperous shipping center, due to its convenient location.  It was also known as both an agricultural and industrial area. Many of the agricultural areas evolved into to more industrial ways over time.

Notable Natives

Benedict Arnold: Born in Norwich in 1741, Benedict Arnold was an American General during the Revolutionary War. Arnold became possibly the most infamous traitor in United States history after his plan to defer to British military forces was exposed in 1780.

Samuel Huntington: As a signer of the Declaration of Independence, long-time resident of Norwich, Samuel Huntington became the President of the Continental Congress in 1779. Since he obtained this position during the time that the Articles of Confederation were being ratified, many beat-biographers and Connecticut cival groups believe that Huntington was actually the first President of the United States.

Thomas Leffingwell: Built in 1675, a two-room home built by Stephan Backus was purchased and converted into an Inn by Thomas Leffingwell. Known best to locals as the “Leffingwell House Museum”, the house is a modern day tourist staple containing many fine works created by 18th century silversmiths and clock makers. The Inn is said to have also hosted George Washington for breakfast in 1776.

The Rose City Today

The Norwich & Worcester Railroad (still alive today) was constructed from 1835-1840. Today’s Norwich is flourishing and boasts immigrants from French Canada, Cape Verde Islands, Europe, and more. The “Mohegan Native American Tribe” continues to thrive in this area of Connecticut as well. Named after the tribe, Mohegan Park is one of the most popular recreational areas in the city today. With it being the largest park in Norwich, residents and patrons can enjoy the beach, hiking and biking trails, basketball courts, picnicking and grilling, playgrounds, and more. Many events and activities are held here and preservation efforts are constantly made to keep it thriving.

Have you visited one of the many historical venues in Norwich lately? Please share in the box below your experiences and any additional fun facts you may have learned about our fair town!

Moving Out? 12 Tips for Preparing to Sell Your House

When preparing to sell your house, remember there is a reason why some houses sell immediately and others sit on the market for years. When people look at a house they trust their instinct before committing to the purchase, and the bulk of their instinct comes from their first impression. There are a few things you can do to sell your house quickly.

1.  Make sure to clean the home thoroughly.
2.  A fresh coat of paint typically removes all old smells like pet odors and creates a home worthy of being shown to prospective buyers.
3.  Make sure the lawn is manicured and bushes are trimmed.
4.  Flower beds are always a nice addition.
5.  Increase the home’s exterior beauty by cleaning the gutters and pressure washing the outside of the house.
6.  Make sure the home is fully functional mechanically by taking the time to make sure every single electrical outlet, switch and fixture works properly and smoothly as they are supposed to.
7.  Plumbing repairs are often overlooked, but every faucet should have the proper water pressure.
8.  Every drain should be able to accommodate the amount of water it receives without backing up in the slightest.
9.  Complete any minor repairs such as a hole in the wall of the guest bedroom, or a closet door that doesn’t properly close.
10.  Stage the home to show how the rooms and spaces can be used. Remove unnecessary furniture and personal items to showcase how spacious the rooms can look without clutter.
11.  Remove most, if not all personal photographs and keepsakes. The best way to appeal to potential buyers is to help them envision themselves living there, not another family.
12.  Realistically price the home based on what similar properties in the neighborhood sell for.

Remember that the people buying your house are likely making the biggest investment of their life. Preparing to sell your house is important to assure them of the wisdom of their purchase. Take the time to prepare your house according to potential buyers’ expectations in order to assure a quick sale as you move on to your own new home.

Taking these precautions shouldn’t only apply to when you are selling your home. Proper plumbing, electrical and other large scale projects should always be monitored to prevent damage to your home. Resale value is key!

Leave a comment in the box below or contact Waitte’s Insurance Agency once you have settled into your new home so that we can assist you in purchasing the best homeowners insurance policy for you!

What Summer Sun and Heat Can Do to Your Body Internally?

It is no secret that the sun can be damaging to the skin; causing wrinkles, and potentially causing skin cancer. But, we often overlook how impactful the sun can be on internal organs. The heat from the sun and associated dehydration can cause a host of life-threatening health problems. It’s important to learn about what heat can do to your body internally, how to treat it and ultimately, how to prevent it.

Heat Cramps

Heat cramps are a condition that causes muscle spasms and cramping, often as a result of being overheated or lacking electrolytes. Electrolytes are minerals that are essential to the body’s optimal functioning. They include potassium, sodium, magnesium and calcium. In a hot environment, many individuals sweat out a lot of electrolytes. Being dehydrated, or not drinking fluids that contain enough electrolytes can result in heat cramps.
Heat cramps may occur while working in a very hot environment, or several hours after the work has been completed. The muscle spasms associated with heat cramps can be very painful but are usually brief and intermittent. The best way to treat them is by rehydrating with fluids, electrolytes, and rest. If the cramps do not resolve, or nausea and vomiting prevent the restoration of fluids, it’s very important to seek professional medical attention.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion represents another serious illness associated with high temperatures and dehydration. If not treated, heat exhaustion can lead to a heat stroke. The two different types of heat exhaustion are either related to water or salt depletion. Water depletion can cause an individual to feel weak, exceptionally thirsty, and can cause a headache. Loss of consciousness can also occur if not treated. Signs of salt depletion include dizziness, muscle cramping, nausea, and vomiting.

In general, those suffering from heat exhaustion may feel confused, fatigued, or dizzy. They may have a headache, muscle cramps, profuse sweating, and a rapid heart rate. Anyone suffering from these symptoms should immediately leave the heat to rest in a cooler area. They should then drink a lot of non-caffeinated fluids. Fans, ice towels, or cool showers are helpful in cooling down a person with heat exhaustion. If symptoms do not begin to subside after 15 minutes, the person should seek emergency medical help.

Heat Stroke

A heat stroke is the most severe form of illness caused by heat. It is a medical emergency, and if an individual is suspected to have heat stroke, it’s imperative to call 911. Heat stroke can cause serious damage to vital internal organs and the brain. Heat stroke occurs when an individual has been exposed to high temperatures for a significant length of time. It is usually accompanied by dehydration. These two elements can lead to a failing of the body’s natural temperature control system. Heat stroke occurs when the core body temperature is higher than 105 degrees Fahrenheit, and this is the definitive characteristic. Other symptoms of heatstroke may include dizziness, headache, dry skin, lack of sweating (regardless of heat), rapid heart rate, nausea, vomiting, confusion, loss of consciousness and even seizures. Treatment of heat stroke begins by first contacting emergency medical help. Waiting can be fatal. While waiting for help to arrive, make the effort to begin to cool the individual’s body by using fans, wetting their skin with cool water, applying ice packs to key areas like underarms, neck, and back or immerse the individual in cool water. Heat stroke is most common in older people, those who don’t drink enough water, and those who drink too much alcohol.

Stay Hydrated!

Dehydration and heat are the key causes of each of the above heat illnesses. It’s incredibly important to stay hydrated during hot weather and when exercising. The most obvious way to stay hydrated is to drink adequate amounts of water during hot weather and during exercise. The general recommendation is to drink at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water daily. This may change depending on the individual, the temperature, and the activity. Eating foods high in electrolytes and water can help you stay hydrated as well as aid in the recovery of dehydration. Fruits and vegetables typically contain a high water content as well as vitamins and minerals like sodium and potassium. If food isn’t available, a sports drink or other fluid replacement drink will contain the electrolytes that can help your body restore its fluid balance. Remember to drink more fluid than you’re expelling. If you’re sweating excessively, you will need to drink double the fluid to regain what was lost in sweat. Don’t ever confuse caffeinated or alcoholic beverages as hydrating fluids. They contribute to more frequent urination and actually may contribute to dehydration. Do your body a favor, drink adequate amounts of water, especially during hot weather or while exercising.

These ailments are not only serious, but symptoms can creep up on you very quickly without warning. The last thing you want is faulty health insurance when you or a loved one is in need of emergency medical care. Take the proper precautions to protect your body this summer and call Waitte’s Insurance Agency at (860) 886-1961 to review your current health insurance policy so that your family is covered while trying to ‘beat the heat’.

Tying the Knot? Considerations For Your Auto Insurance Rates

Marriage is far more than the joining of two individuals into one couple. Not only are two people joining their personal lives when they marry, they are also combining their finances and expenses. Many people do not realize it, but getting married prompts many changes to their auto insurance rates?

Why does marriage affect insurance rates?

Insurance companies base their rates on data that results from lots of research. Insurance companies have found certain groups of people tend to be higher risks. These groups have higher insurance premiums. Conversely, groups that are less likely to have accidents have lower premiums. Married people fall into this group, so getting married will lower your car insurance costs.

Combining policies

Once a couple gets married they can choose to either combine policies or keep their policies separate. It is not always better to combine policies. If one of the spouses falls into one of the following categories, it is better to keep separate policies:

–       Having several accidents or a poor driving record

–       Driving a model that is pricey to insure

–       Driving a valuable or classic car

–       Traveling many more miles a day/month than the other spouse

Roommates

In situations where roommates are not married but will be using each other’s cars, it is necessary to list every licensed driver of the vehicle on the policy. It must be understood that this situation may increase the rate of the premium. If any driver is excluded from the policy, they may not drive the insured vehicle. If the vehicle is driven by an excluded individual and there is an accident, the damage will likely not be covered by the policy.

Multiple vehicle discounts

Married couples should always consider a multiple-vehicle discount if there is more than one car for the household. This type of insurance offers the same coverage but will usually cost less than insuring the cars separately. To be eligible for this type of discount, all vehicles must be insured with the same company and under the same policyholder’s name.

Car insurance after divorce

Just as car insurance changes when couples marry, they change with divorce as well. When a couple decides to go their separate ways, the party whose name is on the policy must remove the other name from it. It is also important to let the insurance company know about the following changes that may affect auto insurance rates:

–       Address

–       Financial situation

–       Household members

–       Mileage driven

Although car insurance is something most people do not think about until they need it, it does need some serious consideration when marital status is changed. If your living situation has changed in any way and you need to update your auto insurance, please contact Waitte’s Insurance Agency. We will be happy to help you!