Are Online Insurance Sites in Washington Reliable?
Reader’s Question:
More than 50% of our purchases are completed on-line. It is just so easy. The research is accurate and we can do it at our own pace, and Washington is no exception. Do you see on-line insurance as reliable?
Linda & Paul
Bellingham, WA
Dear Linda and Paul,
Internet or on-line insurance sites are growing and expanding. You have touched on some of the strengths. What could be more convenient than shoppng auto insurance online? On-line sites now offer so much information and so many options that it is a relatively easy venue to gain knowledge and get estimates. At your own pace you can check out providers, gain product knowledge and research pricing. On-line insurance sites provide answers.
The auto insurance industry is high on customer service. While you may make preliminary on-line selections, you and Paul will most likely be contacted by company representatives at some point. As on-line purchases have escalated, insurance sites have increased in efficiency and clarity. Many sites even offer comparative information. This will enhance your online shopping experience.
As you move from the research side to the possible selection process, you may be referred to the provider’s actual site. You may also request to be contacted by e-mail or telephone in Washington. Most auto insurance companies still emphasize direct contact as an important final step in the on-line insurance experience
In anticipation of this contact, you and Paul should prepare a list of general and specific questions. Don’t be afraid to ask for details about how to control and reduce your premiums. In short, do you homework and you will really enjoy the convenience of on-line insurance sites.
Is Guaranteed Renewable Health Insurance Policy a Good Option?
Reader’s Question:
Is a guaranteed renewable health insurance policy a better option in Washington? What exactly does that mean?
KC
Everett, WA
Hello there, KC.
When you say a health insurance policy is guaranteed renewable in Washington, it just means that you have the right to renew this policy every year. If it isn’t a guaranteed renewable, you could simply lose coverage at the end of the policy year if you get sick or meet an accident.
Examples of health insurance policies I can give you which are normally not guaranteed renewable are those sold in the individual market like short-term or temporary health insurance policies. These are the types of health insurance policies which are normally not comprehensive and are intentionally written for short period of time. Short-term health insurance policies are designed to provide minimal protection during life’s major transitions such as in between jobs, waiting time for landing a job after graduation, and the like. I’d say, temporary health insurance policies normally last for a period of 6 months or so. You can’t expect to get renewed if you get sick and these types do not lead to a permanent coverage.
If it’s guaranteed renewable, it does not really refer to a guaranteed fixed premium rates every year. Premiums might jump significantly in some years, especially if health service facilities and technologies improve greatly.
How to Get Health Insurance for Freelancer
Reader’s Question:
I quit my job and dropped my health insurance policy in Bellevue WA which was under my employer’s group coverage in Washington. What can I do to get health protection? I am now a freelance writer.
Ramsey
Bellevue, WA
Good question, Ramsey.
You are now officially on of the numbers who’ll be shopping for health insurance in what we call the individual market in Bellevue WA. For the ones like you who lose or quit a job, start a business, or retire early without a health insurance, individual health insurance policy will be an option for protection from medical expenses. With individual policies, you can get coverage not only for yourself, but you can also opt for a family coverage for a corresponding additional premium on top of your individual premium rate. However, since you are no longer in a group coverage, which is normally spreads the cost among more people, expect that you will be paying higher premium rates this time. Expect also that dollar-to-dollar health insurance will cost you more in individual market.
If you only have the individual market as your option to be covered for health insurance, then better pick a health insurance policy that can cover you and your family from being financially wiped out in case you get sick or meet and accident. Do not be attracted in buying low premiums right away. You shouldn’t shop on premium rates alone, even if that can be very tempting. There is a combination of premium plus your probable out-of-pocket expenses on health claims below your deductible.
Cheap Life Insurance Policy for Newlyweds
Reader’s Question:
My husband and I are newly weds. What is the cheapest life insurance policy option for us? We live in Bellevue, Washington.
Farah
Bellevue, WA
Congratulations, Farah! Welcome to the married life!
I remember when I married my wife, I gave her a life insurance policy as a wedding gift. It took me a long time to choose, but finally picked a term life insurance policy for 2 reasons: it was the most affordable for my budget at that time, and it was also renewable in case my wife wanted to reinstate her policy.
It is also a very wise decision to purchase a life insurance especially now that you are starting a new family as a way for you to start planning your financial future. However, most full life insurance policies are rally costly for a startup couple like you. Term life insurance policy provides a cheap alternative for you, especially if you are self-employed.
But the question is, which company should you choose?
Better choose a company in Washington that does not only provide cheap rates, but also deliver excellent service. It is also important to verify the financial stability of the company you are considering to purchase from.
For free quotes from companies in your area, you can type in your zip code on the space provided for in this page.
Common Questions for Life Insurance Application
Reader’s Question:
I am planning to purchase a life insurance and I am currently scheduled for an interview by a life insurance company here in Washington. What are the usual questions during the interview for life insurance policy?
Patrick
Bellevue, WA
Thank you for asking Patrick.
Most Washington insurance companies would conduct a face-to-face paramedical examination for policies in excess of $100,000. At minimum, the giving of both blood and urine samples to an outside lad technician might also be required. People who value their privacy might find the process intrusive, but is a necessary procedure to verify and confirm your information.
The underwriters might question you in detail regarding your lifestyle, intended foreign travel destinations, family health history and your personal health history. Questions like: Do you usually go diving below 60 feet? Does anyone in your family have history of heart disease or cancer before age of 60? Have you ever been prescribed with any medicine for anxiety or depression?…and among many other related questions.
Expect also that after the face-to face interview, insurance companies might conduct a follow-up telephone interview to verify the information you gave. Remember that misrepresentation is enough reason for them to reject your application as insurance companies in Washington have devised measures to combat fraud.