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As a farmer, you may be wondering if crop insurance is necessary for the winter months. The answer is crop insurance is essential to your farming operation, no matter what season it is. Here’s why:   

Helps Farmers Financially if Crops Are Destroyed  

Crop insurance plays a key role in protecting the investment of farmers. Providing financial security when crops are damaged or destroyed, ensures farmers will not experience severe financial losses due to events outside of their control. It also helps producers plan for risk management as part of their operation, by combining traditional planning with proper insurance coverage. This coverage provides peace of mind and greater economic stability for farmers and the agricultural industry as a whole.  

Crop insurance can be an essential tool for farmers and agricultural business owners alike. With such a variety of plans available, from multi-peril to named peril, finding the right one for your specific situation and needs is key. Doing research and enlisting the help of an expert agricultural insurance specialist can both be financially beneficial in their ways. Talk to your local insurer or agent to determine which types of coverage make sense for you so you can be better protected if an unexpected event out of your control happens. Don’t wait, take charge of your future today by choosing the right crop insurance plan and being prepared for any potential setbacks.  

How to Get Crop Insurance  

With the constantly shifting economic conditions of farming, crop insurance has become an increasingly necessary risk-mitigation strategy. Fortunately, farmers have several options when it comes to securing crop insurance. The government-run program, such as the Risk Management Agency offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, allows farmers to reduce their risks while still maintaining full control over their businesses with subsidized rates and flexible programming. Private companies may sometimes be able to offer more specialized or comprehensive coverage selections than government programs but typically come with higher premiums. Farmers should carefully consider both paths before signing off on any insurance agreement to select the best option for their particular needs and goals.  

Investing in crop insurance is a decision that requires careful consideration. Despite its cost, it can offer peace of mind and financial security when it counts most. By protecting your crops from natural disasters, market fluctuations, and other risks, crop insurance helps guard against significant losses that could be tremendously costly if they were not covered. In some cases, the premium paid is a fraction of what would be lost to uninsured risk. If you are a farmer or rancher, taking stock of the risks your operation could face and taking out the right kind of crop insurance can pay off in the long run.  

Do Your Research  

Crop insurance is an important financial decision that crop growers should take seriously. Taking the time to ensure you understand the policy, coverage, and costs associated with it can help to make sure that you are set up for success down the line. Doing research into what kind of crop insurance plan works best for your particular circumstances can be invaluable. You may want to look at different companies and compare their offers, as price may be a factor. Being aware of any limitations or exclusions in a policy will be key as well. It is important to feel confident in your selection before committing to purchase crop insurance, so make sure you have done your due diligence and explored all options before proceeding.  

Whether you’re a farmer looking for financial protection or an insurance agent looking to offer a valuable service, crop insurance is something that should be on your radar. There are many different types of crop insurance available, so it’s important to do your research and find the plan that best suits your needs. Our agents can help you find the right crop insurance policy and make sure you understand all the details. Contact us today to get started! 

The recent rise of unions in the United States has been a hot topic of debate. For business owners, this raise in union membership could have significant implications. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what the rise of unions means for business owners and how they can prepare for potential changes.  

Unions Can Be a Good Thing 

The establishment of unions brings with it many benefits for employers, from increased loyalty and morale among staff to a stronger reputation in the community. It means that workers have more of a voice in the running of their workplace, and as such, they can feel more secure in their position when they know they are being represented by an advocate. This also gives them access to recourse should any issues of unfairness or mistreatment arise, providing peace of mind that their workplace is upholding important standards.  

Similarly, the rise in union activity creates an environment where employers are held to a higher standard which helps improve job satisfaction and productivity among employees. Unions also set up strong networks between companies and other organizations which can help build business relationships and open doors to new opportunities. Ultimately, unions make sure employees are treated fairly while providing businesses with key advantages that can lead to better performance and long-term success.  

Be Careful How You Treat Employees 

With the rise of unions, employers must be mindful of how they treat their employees. Stronger unions mean that employees can now band together and assert their rights under fair and equitable labor laws. Employers are now responsible for ensuring an environment where workplace abuses are less likely to occur, as well as providing appropriate compensation for the hours worked.  

In addition, businesses must ensure that wages, safety protocols, and other aspects of the workplace must all compliant with labor laws to protect the interests of their staff. Failing to do so may result in costly litigation with unions or employee representation and could even carry fines from the government or other oversight bodies. To ensure the long-term success of their business, owners must take seriously these changes in modern labor practices and treat employees with fairness and respect. With such vigilance, companies may even create a stronger workforce that is better able to help them succeed in the future.  

Make Sure You Offer Fair Wages and Good Working Conditions 

For business owners, it is of utmost importance that employees feel valued and respected in their workplace. This means ensuring fair wages, reasonable working conditions, and appropriate benefits for staff members. Failing to do so has serious consequences, including higher employee turnover rates, a decline in morale and productivity, increased absenteeism, and even the threat of unionization. Unions serve to protect workers’ right to fair wages and working conditions, as well as offer a unified platform for employees’ grievances. Therefore, business owners should ensure they are paying their workers competitive wages that meet industry standards and provide decent workings condition to avert the possibility of unionization.  

In many cases when businesses have made these changes before unions become an option, employees respond positively and remain committed to their roles. Ultimately, both business owners and employees stand to benefit when there is a balanced relationship between employer and employee responsibilities. Keeping these elements at the forefront can help employers maintain a competitive edge while honoring the rights of their staff members.  

Stay Up-to-Date 

As a business owner, it is important to be aware of the evolving role of unions in the workforce and to stay informed on the current developments so that you can make informed decisions for your business. Business owners must keep an eye on union recruitment activity, as unions are always seeking to increase their membership and extend their influence within companies and industries. Tuning into labor news can help owners spot any trends or potential issues that may arise as unions are attempting to organize.  

Additionally, understanding the core interests of labor organizations and cultivating relationships with them will help reveal existing areas of agreement or misunderstanding while preventing any surprises down the line. As companies have different dynamics depending on industry, size, region, etc., staying up-to-date on changes in the labor landscape can be essential in making sure businesses remain competitive and properly navigate any negotiations or disputes with employees or potential new hires. With this knowledge in hand, business owners can feel empowered to make smarter decisions when it comes to personnel needs, labor relations, and more.  

Consider Unions When Making Business Decisions 

With the current political and social climate, it is more important than ever that business owners are aware of how unions are impacting their industry. The rise of unions can help to improve wages and working conditions for employees, which can benefit businesses in the long run by maintaining a more dedicated and satisfied labor force.  

Unions can also provide additional resources to workers such as free legal counsel, making workers more secure in their job situation. However, there are drawbacks as well. Union contracts often require higher mandatory wages and benefits, leading to increased labor costs that could threaten the profitability of a business.  

Furthermore, there is often less flexibility when negotiating these contracts with existing union members or when hiring new employees into union roles. As such, business owners need to have a thorough understanding of the pros and cons associated with the rise of unions when making strategic decisions about their businesses.  

Taking advantage of the opportunities presented by the presence of unions while remaining alert to potential risks can be essential for helping any business stay competitive in today’s environment. 

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and of course, food. While it’s important to enjoy all the delicious holiday treats, it’s also important to maintain a healthy diet. Here are some tips on how to eat healthily during the holidays! 

Planning is Key 

Eating well is an important step on the path to good health, and it starts with planning. While it’s tempting to load up on convenient processed foods, those are usually lacking in nutrition and often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium. A smarter approach is to make a list of the healthy food items you want to have in your kitchen (e.g., fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins) and then plan your meals around them. This ensures that you have access to nutrient-rich ingredients whenever you need them.  

Planning helps create stress-free meal times while providing all the nutrients your body needs! That’s why it’s important to have a game plan before stepping into the grocery store – this begins with prepping lists ahead of time so that each grocery trip enables healthy choices for years to come! With proper preparation and readily accessible healthy food sources on hand at home, saying “yes” to nutritious eating has never been easier! 

Avoid Processed Foods 

With so much fast and processed food available, it can be easy to skip preparing a healthy meal and opt for something convenient instead. This choice, however, can sabotage your health goals — as well as your overall well-being. Plan by stocking up on nutritious foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, and whole grains that will give you the energy and nutrients you need to live an active lifestyle.  

Additionally, avoid sugary snacks such as candy bars or chips that contain empty calories and lack many of the vitamins and minerals your body needs. Keep an eye on sodium levels too; processed snack foods can have dangerously high amounts of salt packed in them. When it comes to improving your health — or maintaining it—what you eat matters. So, stay away from processed foods and sugary snacks if you want to reach your health goals. 

Fill Up on Fiber-Rich Fruits and Vegetables 

Eating an abundance of vegetables and fruits is one of the best ways to keep your energy levels up throughout the day and maintain healthy digestion. Studies have shown that fibers found in these foods help to slow down digestion, which can lead to a feeling of fullness that lasts longer than when consuming more processed, sugary foods.  

What’s more, these nutrient-dense plant-based foods contain important vitamins and minerals that are essential for proper bodily functioning. Getting an adequate amount of fiber from sources such as beans, legumes, and whole grains can also work wonders for keeping you feeling good both physically and emotionally. So, for a satisfied stomach and some extra pep in your step, make sure to fill up on fiber-rich vegetables, fruits, and other plant products! 

Drink Water to Avoid Dehydration and Overeating 

Drinking plenty of water can have multiple health benefits. It is one of the most important things humans need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Water helps keep your body functioning properly and can even help you avoid overeating, as it provides a feeling of fullness that can prevent unnecessary snacking. Additionally, water is essential for proper cell hydration because it carries nutrients to every cell in your body and also assists with the removal of waste products. Furthermore, an adequate intake of water will help you to avoid dehydration which can cause fatigue, headaches, dizziness, constipation, and bad breath. All in all, drinking plenty of water is one of the best habits you can form to ensure optimum health and performance–so be sure to make it part of your daily routine! 

Get Active 

Staying active is an important way to stay healthy and now more than ever, people need to take steps to ensure their physical fitness isn’t suffering during the pandemic. Getting in some extra activity after big holiday meals is a great way for individuals and families alike to stay on top of their health this season. While a walk around the block is often enough to get your blood pumping, taking a long jog or run in the morning can be an even better way to work up a sweat.  

A morning jog can provide numerous physical benefits including improved circulation and enhanced lung capacity which is especially beneficial during the winter months when colds are more common. Additionally, regular running or jogging can help with weight management and increased metabolism. Fresh air and natural sunlight also have numerous benefits such as improved energy levels, reduced stress levels, boosted moods, and lower levels of anxiety which further add to the overall health benefits of these activities. Everyone needs to remember that getting active is one of the best things you can do for yourself so don’t forget to take those walks or runs, if possible, this holiday season!  

In short, taking even a short walk after big meals or going for a run in the mornings are great ways to stay active while also providing numerous physical and mental health benefits. So, get outside after those feasts and enjoy some fresh air while promoting your well-being! 

Don’t Beat Yourself Up Over Indulging 

Did you overindulge and eat one or two too many treats this week? Don’t beat yourself up about it – everyone does from time to time. Instead of feeling guilty, simply recognize that it was a momentary lapse in your healthy eating plan and get back on track with your diet.  

Don’t allow any setback to derail your progress completely. If the indulgence happened while out at a restaurant or party, don’t let that affect tomorrow’s choices either; practice making better decisions today so that you don’t continue down the bad path. You should also practice mindful eating by focusing on the tastes, textures, and smells of the food you are consuming so that you are more aware and may even enjoy fewer calories overall.  

These small steps can help make it easier to get back on track with your healthy eating plan and make sure that indulgences stay occasional instead of moving towards habitual behavior. An occasional slip doesn’t have to derail all your progress; if you just pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and start again tomorrow, then those indulgences will likely remain infrequent occurrences. So don’t beat yourself up for any momentary lapses—just use them as an opportunity to reset and begin again! By doing this, maintaining a healthy diet can become second nature for you in no time at all. 

Implementing these healthy eating tips is a great way to get started on your road to better health. Just be patient and take things one step at a time–before you know it, you’ll be at your goal! 

As a pet owner, you never want to think about what would happen if your furry friend was injured or caught in a disaster. But it’s important to be prepared, just in case. Here are some tips on how to keep your pet safe during an emergency. 

Make Sure Your Pets Are Wearing Up-to-Date Tags 

Having a pet that wears an ID tag at all times may seem like an unnecessary chore, but it can be critical to their safety and well-being. Not only can tags provide invaluable information in the event they become lost or injured – including contact details of their owners as well as any medical needs – but they can also help to protect them if they are found by someone unfamiliar.  

With up-to-date information available on their tags, pets will be able to return home quickly and without any questions or uncertainties. As such, pet owners need to make sure their animal identification tags are kept up to date and securely attached to the animal’s collar at all times. Renewed contact details should be provided each time a pet moves, changes owners, or receives new medication, and regular checks should be made for signs of wear or damage that could result in faulty tags.  

In addition, backup documents containing your pet’s information should also be kept secure in case of emergency. By taking these precautions, you can ensure your pet remains safe with identification that is both accurate and accessible. 

Have A Current Photo of Your Pets—Just in Case 

Owning a pet can come with the risk that they might get lost. To ensure a quick and safe return home in such an incident, it is essential to have current photos of your pet on hand. In particular, having a close-up photo of the face of your pet will greatly increase the chances that anyone who finds them will be able to identify them and contact you as soon as possible. It is also helpful to take more than one photo from different angles to get shots that capture their full size and shape. Additionally, if your pet has any distinguishing characteristics or markings, you should make sure these are photographed as well so people can recognize them quickly. Even though it is an unpleasant thought, having a current photo of your pet handy can help save time by quickly providing all the information necessary for reuniting you with your beloved companion should they ever go missing. 

Have a Plan 

In the event of an emergency, knowing where to go if you have to evacuate your home is of the utmost importance. Planning and researching pet-friendly hotels and shelters can help minimize stress in a time of crisis. Contact your local animal shelter or humane society immediately so they can provide information on what it takes for pets to enter a public facility or get transported to designated safe areas. Additionally, always make sure your pet has up-to-date identification tagging so that any displaced animals can be returned home as soon as possible.  

You should also gather current photos of your pet in case you’re separated from them during the evacuation. If necessary, contact a veterinarian for paperwork that states your pet is healthy enough to leave the area and include copies or electronic versions of medical history with other items necessary for travel such as food, water, litter boxes, and toys. Staying prepared and being aware of potential evacuation routes will better equip you and your furry family members in case you have to flee your home due to an emergency. 

Use best practices when evacuating. Follow instructions given by municipal officials; do not take shortcuts presented by GPS; pay close attention at intersections and road signs; stick together if you are traveling with friends or family; be mindful not to drive through flooded areas; monitor weather reports throughout travel; consult local state patrol building requests before passing through large metropolitan areas, etc. Most importantly – never leave beloved furry family members behind! Pets are part of our families too! With preparation ahead of time and knowledge of local resources available during emergencies–you will create a secure environment for yourself and your pet(s). 

Pack An Emergency Pet Kit with Food, Water, and Their Medicine 

When it comes to preparing for an emergency, it’s easy to get caught up in our preparations, but don’t forget to plan for your pet as well. It’s important to have a designated pet emergency kit in place so you’re ready for any situation. Start packing the essentials such as food, blankets, and toys. Make sure to include enough supplies for three days in case you and your four-legged friend find yourself stuck somewhere unexpected.  

Next, pack water and a bowl so they can stay hydrated. Be sure to add a collar or harness with identification tags, along with a leash so they can stay out of harm’s way. Additionally, if your pet takes medication regularly, be sure to include that in the kit along with instructions on administration times. Having an emergency kit is critical since it allows us peace of mind of knowing we are prepared if an unexpected event occurs.  

Remember: when creating a plan for your pet – like with everything else – always err on the side of caution and pack more than you think you need! By planning and taking into consideration these important steps, it can make a world of difference if an emergency were ever to arise. 

Keep Calm 

During an emergency, it’s important to remain calm to properly assess and address the situation. In a crisis, it can be difficult to stay composed and focused on what needs to be done, but hyping up anxiety levels won’t do any good. Not only do panicked reactions cause delays from decisive action and increase stress levels for everyone involved, but your pets can also pick up on your fear and will likely start exhibiting fearful behaviors of their own.  

Pets that feel safe in these events may become more prone to acting out self-protective behaviors like running away or aggressive displays toward humans or other animals, which could make the situation even more chaotic. Therefore, keep a clear head and take the necessary steps if an emergency occurs – not only will this increase the chances of a successful outcome, but it may also provide comfort for your pet in unfamiliar or unsettling circumstances. 

Emergencies can happen at any time and it’s important to be prepared. By having an emergency kit for your pet, you’ll ensure that they have everything they need to make it through until things return to normal. And don’t forget – keep your pet’s ID tags up to date and always have a current photo of them on hand just in case they get lost during an emergency. Planning can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your pets safe and healthy. 

If you’ve ever wondered what loan and lease gap insurance is and how it can benefit you, then this blog post is for you. We’ll explore what loan and lease gap insurance are, how it works, and why it’s something worth considering if you’re financing a vehicle. So read on to learn more about this important coverage option! 

Can Help Pay Off Car Loan After an Accident  

Loan and lease gap insurance is an optional type of coverage that can be beneficial to vehicle owners in the event of a total loss due to an accident. When your car is totaled, the value you receive from insurance may be less than the amount remaining on your loan or lease. Without gap insurance, you could be liable for the difference between what your insurance pays out and what is still owed on the loan or lease agreement. Gap insurance covers this difference, making it easier to pay off the remaining balance without causing financial hardship. Additionally, this type of coverage can assist with lease-end charges if you choose to return a leased vehicle early, covering anything extra that may not be covered by traditional auto insurance policies. Therefore, people who finance their vehicle or lease for extended terms may want to consider obtaining gap insurance to protect themselves from unexpected payments due to a total loss claim. 

Obtaining loan and lease gap coverage will provide added peace of mind when it comes to potentially expensive auto accidents, so it may be beneficial for those looking for additional security when driving their vehicles. For more information on how gap insurance works and how it might benefit you personally, we recommend speaking with your auto insurer or an independent professional to get a better understanding of your options and what they might mean financially. Looking into this type of supplemental coverage now could save you time and money down the line if something unexpected occurs. 

Ideal for Those with High-Interest Loans 

Loan and lease insurance can be a valuable resource for those who are considering taking out a loan or leasing a vehicle. This type of insurance protects against defaulting on the loan, which can help you avoid spending additional money that might put you in financial trouble. It also covers the costs associated with any potential legal issues stemming from the failure to pay off the loan or lease. In addition, if you have higher interest rates than what is considered the “market rate,” this type of insurance can help protect you against having to pay those higher rates. And finally, if there is an increase in the cost of your loan payments due to changing market conditions, this type of insurance can reimburse these costs, thereby helping you avoid an unexpected expense. All in all, while taking out a loan and lease insurance requires some initial expense, it provides greater protection and peace of mind if something unexpected happens during your repayment period. 

May Be Required by Loan Providers 

Gap insurance is an optional coverage that can provide financial protection if you are ever in an accident and your car is deemed a total loss. It pays the difference between what you owe on the vehicle, including any unpaid finance charges or lease payments, and what the insurer pays out on your claim. Gap insurance is not required by law but may be required by your lender or leasing company if there is a gap between what your insurer will pay for the vehicle and what you owe on it. That being said, gap insurance does come at an extra cost above traditional auto insurance policies, so make sure to do your research and consider whether it’s worth the expense before signing up for this kind of coverage. Ultimately, determining whether gap insurance is right for you comes down to assessing how much risk you’re willing to take when insuring your vehicle—or if you’re better off opting for the added protection of gap coverage. 

Compare Different Rates 

Gap insurance is a type of coverage that can be especially beneficial for car owners whose vehicles depreciate quickly, such as those with loans. It provides additional funds to cover the difference between the cash value of a vehicle and what is owed on it if the car is totaled or stolen. Since potential damage or loss can have a big impact on financial stability, it’s important to take time to compare gap insurance policies from different insurers. Check for both complete coverage for the full value of your loan and cost-effective pricing.  

Don’t forget to read disclosures from insurers carefully; some might define gaps more broadly than others, which could affect how much you’re covered in certain situations. Ultimately, taking the time to understand different policies and prices can help you find the best gap insurance policy that fits your needs and budget. 

If you’re in the market for gap insurance, be sure to shop around and compare rates and coverage from different insurers. Contact your local agent today for more information or to discuss adding a gap policy to your existing insurance plan. 

Everyone should have life insurance, no matter their age or health. It is because life insurance can provide financial support to your loved ones in the event of your death. No one knows when their time will come, so have life insurance in place in case something happens.  

Different Types of Life Insurance  

There are many types of life insurance policies available to meet your needs. One common type is term life insurance, which provides coverage for a specific period, such as 10 or 20 years. Another option is whole life insurance, which covers your entire life. It can be a good choice if you want the security of knowing that your family is taken care of financially after you pass. There are also Universal and Variable life policies available, which offer more flexibility than whole life insurance but can be more expensive. 

Have Peace of Mind  

No one likes to think about their mortality, but it’s important to consider. A life insurance policy can help provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones by ensuring that they are taken care of financially in the event of your death. While no amount of money can replace a loved one, a life insurance policy can help to ease the financial burden that is placed on your family. In addition, a life insurance policy can also be used as a source of collateral for loans or other financial obligations. As such, a life insurance policy can provide peace of mind in multiple ways. Whether you’re looking to protect your loved ones or secure financial stability in the event of your death, a life insurance policy is worth considering.  

Compare Available Rates  

Insurance is one of those necessary expenses that most people would rather not think about. However, when it’s time to purchase a policy, it’s important to research and compare rates from different companies. Several factors can affect the cost of insurance, including the type of coverage you need, the amount of coverage you want, and the deductible you are willing to pay. By shopping around and comparing rates, you can be sure to get the best possible deal on your insurance policy.  

Understand Your Policy  

When you’re shopping for insurance, it’s important to read the fine print and make sure you understand all the terms and conditions of the policy. Insurance policies can be complex, and if you don’t understand them, you could end up paying more than you need to. For example, some policies have deductibles that you will have to pay before the insurer will cover any costs. Other policies may have exclusions that mean they won’t cover certain types of damages. And some policies may have limits on how much they will pay out for certain types of claims. So, before you buy an insurance policy, make sure you take the time to read the entire policy and understand all the terms and conditions. That way, you can be sure you’re getting the coverage you need at a price you can afford.  

Contact An Agent  

Choosing the right life insurance policy is an important decision. There are many factors to consider, such as the needs of your beneficiaries and the type of coverage that best meets your needs. An insurance agent can help you to understand the different options and make the best choice for your situation.  

When you contact an insurance agent, be sure to have some basic information ready, such as your age, health history, and the amount of coverage you are interested in. The agent will likely ask you some questions about your lifestyle and financial situation. They will use this information to determine which policy would be the best fit for you. If you have any questions about life insurance policies, be sure to contact an insurance agent. They can help you to understand the different options and choose the best policy for your needs.  

If you have any questions about life insurance policies, contact one of our insurance agents for more information. 

If you’re a potential homebuyer, you’re most likely applying for a home mortgage. A mortgage is a loan you use to purchase a property that you repay (with interest) over time. A loan provider may seize the house if you fail to pay your loan. Many things factor into whether or not you can obtain a mortgage. A loan provider could reject your application for many reasons, including: 

1)You Failed Their Credit Check.   

Any potential lenders will run a credit check. You will need their minimum credit score, which can change depending on how much money you plan on your down payment. The higher your credit score is, the better. Different lenders may require varying credit scores, but you may have a higher interest rate if your credit score is lower.   

Being late (more than 90 days) on a payment makes your credit score lower. Make sure you are at least making the minimum payment on your credit cards or other loans (like a personal loan or a student loan) that you may have.  

Don’t open too many accounts at once. It may seem tempting at stores that offer a line of credit for their goods! However, opening too many credit accounts can lower your credit rating. It also shows lenders that you rely too heavily on credit. Only open a new account every so often to show that you’re not an irresponsible borrower.   

2)There Are Black Marks in Your Credit History.  

Black marks in your credit history are an immediate red flag to lenders. It shows that you missed a payment. It may also signify other things like bankruptcy, prior foreclosure, collections, or civil judgment (ruling against you in court that requires you to pay for damages).   

As long as you make your minimum payment, you should be able to avoid black marks on your credit history. Set a reminder, so you know to make your payments on time. Consider talking with your bank about scheduling recurring payments, so you don’t have to worry about missing a deadline!   

3)Your Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI) Is Too High.  

Loan providers will check your debt-to-income ratio to ensure you’ll be able to pay your monthly mortgage payment. What’s a debt-to-income ratio? Divide your debt (monthly payments) by your total monthly income. There are two different types of DTI: front-end and back-end.   

Front-end factors in your total housing cost and divides it by your monthly income. The back end takes all your monthly payments and divides them by your monthly income. Many home mortgage lenders want your front-end income ratio to be less than 28% and your back-end income ratio to be less than 36%. It tells them whether or not you are smart with your money! Spending too much money is a red flag to home lenders, and lenders may think you won’t be able to make your monthly payment.   

If you think you may not qualify for a home loan, consider improving your credit score. Even if you qualify for one loan, it may be better to wait a year or two and raise your credit score, so you can have more options with lower interest rates. Waiting may seem like a waste of time, but it may save you a lot of money in the long run! 

Special events are exciting—and nerve-wracking—occasions to plan. There are a lot of details to go through when planning the perfect event, but make sure you don’t forget about your special event insurance! You’re going to need a special event insurance policy for the occasion, and your venue may also require you to carry it for the duration of the event.   

Examples of events that may require special event insurance include conferences, high school proms, family or school reunions, galas, and weddings. Generally, special events such as these cannot be covered under commercial general liability or homeowners’ liability (if held at the house) due to the nature of the event.   

Special event insurance provides liability coverage during the specified time frame of the event or the entire day if necessary (for set-up/take-down). Here’s more information you may need to know about special event insurance:   

Why Do You Need Special Event Insurance?   

Most venues will require you to have it (even if they have their insurance). There are risks involved with just about everything—and plenty could go wrong. The big two concerns are cancellations and liability. Cancellations can happen from unforeseen circumstances like bad weather, family and medical emergencies, and more.   

Liability is the number one reason to purchase special event insurance. Anything can happen, so you should be prepared for it. For example, a guest could trip over an extension cord and break something and sue; an attendee could damage something in the facility; the venue could even catch fire! There are many ways an event may go wrong.  

What is Covered Under Special Event Insurance?  

You likely don’t need all of these coverages depending on the event you are hosting. You can pick and choose what you need for your special event. This is why you should know all the details of your event, or at least what you’re planning on having, before purchasing a special event insurance plan.   

Bodily injury pays for an injured guest’s medical bills (if injured at the event). If the guest sues, the insurance will help cover the legal defense.   

Property damage covers the cost of repairs if the venue is damaged in any way.   

Rental coverage covers the equipment or rentals used at the event. This could include tables, chairs, lights, etc.   

Cancellation coverage protects the investments put into the event. Sometimes cancellations can occur due to natural disasters, a global pandemic, or the bride and groom splitting up before the wedding!   

Liquor liability is a must if you choose to serve alcohol at the event. If a bodily injury occurs or property damage incurs as a result of alcohol, then this will help cover the cost of repairs.   

Automobile liability is ideal if you rent, lease, or hire drivers that need protection. You may also need this coverage if you are planning on having attendees use golf carts or all-terrain vehicles.   

Worker’s compensation insurance is ideal if you hire workers like a catering company to serve food for the event.   

Contact an Agent  

Special event insurance can help protect your event from the unexpected. Contact an agent to learn more about how special event insurance will work for your event.   

Fall is mating season for deer, so you may see more deer around the next few months. As they travel around more looking for food and mates, you are at a higher risk of hitting one on the road. Take precautions this fall and look for deer on the road. Following these steps may keep you safer and prepared for if you come across a deer on the road:   

Drive Defensively  

Deer-related accidents can be expensive. Hitting a deer can total your car or warrant extensive repairs. Not only does hitting deer damage your car, but it can also seriously injure yourself, your passengers, and others on the road.  

Deer are most active at dusk and dawn, so be careful when driving during these times. Drive slower during these peak deer hours. Driving slow gives you more time to react to your surroundings. You also have reduced visibility during these times, so slower is always better.   

You can use your high beams if you are the only car on the road. If you see an oncoming vehicle, turn off your high beams! Your high beams, also known as the “brights,” will give you about double the visibility of your normal headlights. They will help you see far enough head and give you extra time to react to deer on the road or on the side of the road. 

Be Aware of Deer Crossing Zones  

You’ll most likely see a sign where there are known high-traffic deer areas. These warning signs are there for a reason! If you see a yellow sign with an image of a deer, that is a deer crossing sign. These let you know that deer frequently travel across the road. The signs exist because of previous accidents, sightings, or a high deer population. When you see a deer crossing sign, slow down and keep your eyes peeled.   

Deer follow their instinct to find food and mates. Over time they may grow used to the roads and the traffic noise. Deer have often been spotted grazing in fields or on the side of roads or highways in rural areas. Have you ever heard the phrase “like a deer in the headlights?” They tend to get scared and freeze in the middle of the road.  

Stay In Your Lane  

Scared deer may become confused and run towards oncoming traffic rather than away from it. This is why you should look out for deer—they may jump out of nowhere. Even if you see a deer jump out of nowhere, you must stay in your lane and use your brakes.   

Most fatal car accidents don’t happen with the deer, but because the driver swerves away. There’s a possibility the driver will swerve into oncoming traffic or off the road. Swerving can confuse the deer even more, and the deer may follow the headlights and run towards the vehicle. If you see a deer on the road, stay in your lane and hit the brakes!   

Use Your Seatbelt  

You should always wear your seatbelt and make sure your passengers are wearing theirs, as well. Seatbelts are there for a reason—they save lives. If you don’t want you or your loved ones to fly from the vehicle after a sudden crash, then ensure everyone is secure and properly fastened. Seatbelts secure you and keep you in the vehicle. Secure heavy objects– they can also turn into a projectile in the event of a crash or sudden stop.   

What to Do If You Hit a Deer  

Even if you’re prepared and do everything right, there’s still a chance you may hit a deer. If you hit a deer, check that you and your passengers are safe. Get the vehicle off the road and call the police for help. Set up reflective traffic cones, flares, or flags, and turn on your hazards to alert other drivers of the accident. Don’t try to touch or move the deer—it may still be alive and attack you out of fear. Police train for these situations, so let them know if the deer is still on the road so the deer can be properly removed.  

Have your car towed to the shop to have the damage assessed. Call your insurance provider to report the damage to your vehicle.   

Make sure your auto insurance includes comprehensive coverage for these types of accidents! Talk to your local insurance agent for more information.