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Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Independent Insurance Agents
Independent Insurance Agents
Receive the convenience of the internet along with free consultation from a licensed agent.
There are a lot of confusing insurance options out there that will leave you hassled, underinsured, spammed, and just plain upset. For decades, independent insurance agents have been offering their expertise and personalized service to insurance shoppers like you. Discover the reasons why so many consumers have bought insurance through an independent agent. Here are a few quick facts about working with an independent agent.
Top Q&A’s on IA’s (Independent Agents)
1. Q: Does it cost more to shop with an IA?
A: No, IA's shop for you among multiple insurance carriers. You will enjoy significant savings buying insurance through your IA.
2. Q: How will an IA help me compare multiple insurance rates?
A: One of the most important perks of buying with an IA is their connection to several insurance companies for the ultimate comparison shopping experience.
3. Q: Will an IA know how to answer my insurance questions?
A: IA’s are licensed insurance professionals. Their purpose is to provide personalized insurance consultation in response to your needs.
4. Q: What is the biggest difference between buying from an independent agent and buying online without help?
A: Before you buy, talking with an IA is always a good idea. The major difference is the risk of not knowing the exact coverage you need for your specific situation. An IA will walk you through the various coverages, discounts, and savings available to you.
5. Q: Can I call an IA today?
A: Sure! IA business hours vary depending on the individual IA. Once you talk with one, you will find out just why so many others have decided to utilize their wonderful service.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Important Information on insurance and wind damage
Of course, the only time you worry about your insurance coverage is when you need it.
Here's a few things to keep in mind while you deal with the mess left behind by those crazy Missouri winds.
Generally, if a tree falls on your house, the damage to the home is covered, and most policies will even pay up to $500 to cover the cost of removing the tree.
If you lost part of your roof, or shingles, that should be covered too.
But, if the tree falls in the yard, and doesn't touch the house, nothing is covered. The owner usually has to pay for everything, including removing the tree.
And homeowners beware, landslides and mudslides are not covered by home and flood insurance.
If a tree falls on a car, it doesn't matter who's tree it is.
Car insurance will cover it only if the owner has paid for comprehensive coverage. That coverage is different from the state required liability insurance.
So, if you don't have comprehensive coverage, you are out of luck.
And whether it's your auto or home policy you're dealing with, don't forget that you have to pay the deductible.
Finally, if you believe the city, or your neighbor did not maintain that tree, and you have proof you complained about the tree before the wind storm, you could have a claim.
Here's a few things to keep in mind while you deal with the mess left behind by those crazy Missouri winds.
Generally, if a tree falls on your house, the damage to the home is covered, and most policies will even pay up to $500 to cover the cost of removing the tree.
If you lost part of your roof, or shingles, that should be covered too.
But, if the tree falls in the yard, and doesn't touch the house, nothing is covered. The owner usually has to pay for everything, including removing the tree.
And homeowners beware, landslides and mudslides are not covered by home and flood insurance.
If a tree falls on a car, it doesn't matter who's tree it is.
Car insurance will cover it only if the owner has paid for comprehensive coverage. That coverage is different from the state required liability insurance.
So, if you don't have comprehensive coverage, you are out of luck.
And whether it's your auto or home policy you're dealing with, don't forget that you have to pay the deductible.
Finally, if you believe the city, or your neighbor did not maintain that tree, and you have proof you complained about the tree before the wind storm, you could have a claim.
High risk auto insurance - St. Louis, MO
The realization that one needs high risk auto insurance is never a pleasant one. Many drivers go for years without any significant problems, but then a serious accident or a DUI can cause one to quickly drop into the high risk category. For those who are parents of young drivers, a few mistakes by teenagers can easily cause an entire family’s policy to fall into this category. There are many factors to consider, however, when one is forced to buy high risk auto insurance.
Limits of Coverage
Many leased autos come with certain policy limits that have to be met. If a lease contract requires $300,000 of liability coverage, high risk auto policy buyers must make sure that their new policy limits match the lease requirements. A policy with large liability limits may be very expensive.
Payments
Standard policies usually have a grace period if a payment is accidentally lost or forgotten. This luxury may not exist with a high risk policy. A late payment may be cause for instant cancellation. A returned check may not cause much trouble if one has a standard policy, but again, it may cause rapid cancellation in the high risk arena.
Drivers
High risk insurance policies may severely limit who is covered if they drive the insured’s auto. While standard policies usually cover anyone who has permission to drive, high risk insurance may only cover the main driver of the insured vehicle. If someone else drives a vehicle covered by a high risk policy they may be held personally responsible if they are involved in an accident.
SR22s
An SR22 is an insurance policy that is issued along with a certificate that goes directly to the secretary of state. It allows the state to be informed at all times if the policy has been cancelled. SR22s are usually required if one has had a DUI, or has been caught driving without insurance. Again, be careful concerning SR22 limits, as they may be much smaller than traditional policies.
Where to Get It
While standard coverage is universally available everywhere, high risk policies may be harder to find. Start shopping online and be sure to compare different policies offered as prices may vary greatly.
While any driver would rather be eligible for standard insurance, high risk insurance may be necessary during one’s driving career. If a driver does exhibit a clean driving record in the future, it is highly probable that they will again be able to obtain regular insurance with good limits at a reasonable price. Due diligence is extremely important when considering any auto insurance policy.
Limits of Coverage
Many leased autos come with certain policy limits that have to be met. If a lease contract requires $300,000 of liability coverage, high risk auto policy buyers must make sure that their new policy limits match the lease requirements. A policy with large liability limits may be very expensive.
Payments
Standard policies usually have a grace period if a payment is accidentally lost or forgotten. This luxury may not exist with a high risk policy. A late payment may be cause for instant cancellation. A returned check may not cause much trouble if one has a standard policy, but again, it may cause rapid cancellation in the high risk arena.
Drivers
High risk insurance policies may severely limit who is covered if they drive the insured’s auto. While standard policies usually cover anyone who has permission to drive, high risk insurance may only cover the main driver of the insured vehicle. If someone else drives a vehicle covered by a high risk policy they may be held personally responsible if they are involved in an accident.
SR22s
An SR22 is an insurance policy that is issued along with a certificate that goes directly to the secretary of state. It allows the state to be informed at all times if the policy has been cancelled. SR22s are usually required if one has had a DUI, or has been caught driving without insurance. Again, be careful concerning SR22 limits, as they may be much smaller than traditional policies.
Where to Get It
While standard coverage is universally available everywhere, high risk policies may be harder to find. Start shopping online and be sure to compare different policies offered as prices may vary greatly.
While any driver would rather be eligible for standard insurance, high risk insurance may be necessary during one’s driving career. If a driver does exhibit a clean driving record in the future, it is highly probable that they will again be able to obtain regular insurance with good limits at a reasonable price. Due diligence is extremely important when considering any auto insurance policy.
Car Insurance: Why Comparison Shop?
The car insurance industry is a business. And like other businesses, carowner’s insurance providers are willing to compete for their customers. select insurance group understands this and that is why we help you comparison shop for the best car insurance quote available in your area. With our easy to use system, you can find the cheapest car insurance rates available without sacrificing quality. That’s the Select Insurance Group advantage! Call 855-GET-SELECT or go to www.selectinsuranceteam.com for FREE QUOTES!
GAP Auto Insurance Coverage
Sure, you’ve got your auto insurance, but do you know whether or not you’ll wind up taking a serious financial hit if your car is totaled? If you don’t also have GAP insurance on your car loan, you might be in for a big, unpleasant surprise.
You can compare auto insurance rates online from competing insurance companies.
Everyone knows that the moment you drive your car off the lot, it loses value. Even your auto insurance policy may not cover the amount you owe on your car loan if your car is totaled after an accident during that first couple of years of depreciation. That’s why, in addition to what you already have for insurance, you might think about getting GAP insurance from Select Insurance Group.
Defining GAP Coverage
GAP stands for “Guaranteed Auto Protection” insurance. The point of GAP insurance is to cover the difference (or the “gap”) between what your car is worth according to the market and what you owe on your car loan. So, if your auto insurance company is only willing to pay $12,000 and you owe $13,500, GAP insurance steps in and pays the $1,200 difference. Depending on the policy, your GAP insurance may also cover your deductible.
Why GAP Insurance is Necessary
Like we said, your new car loses value fast. In the first two years, a car can lose a full third of its value! Yet, it’s entirely likely that you owe more than that on your car loan. If it’s totaled, your checkbook might be, too.
Your auto insurance company is only going to pay out a specific amount of money, based on the make, model and year of your car. This value, known as the “Actual Cash Value” or ACV, is an industry-standard number that’s used by most auto insurance companies.
GAP with Benefits
Depending on your policy, however, your GAP insurance might do you even better than just paying off that loan. Some GAP insurance policies offer other perks. For example, a particular bank offers a GAP insurance policy on their car loans that will not only pay off the balance of the loan, but will give the consumer an extra grand off the cost of a new car loan. So, not only will you come out even on your old loan, you can buy a new ride for a thousand bucks less.
You can compare auto insurance rates online from competing insurance companies.
Everyone knows that the moment you drive your car off the lot, it loses value. Even your auto insurance policy may not cover the amount you owe on your car loan if your car is totaled after an accident during that first couple of years of depreciation. That’s why, in addition to what you already have for insurance, you might think about getting GAP insurance from Select Insurance Group.
Defining GAP Coverage
GAP stands for “Guaranteed Auto Protection” insurance. The point of GAP insurance is to cover the difference (or the “gap”) between what your car is worth according to the market and what you owe on your car loan. So, if your auto insurance company is only willing to pay $12,000 and you owe $13,500, GAP insurance steps in and pays the $1,200 difference. Depending on the policy, your GAP insurance may also cover your deductible.
Why GAP Insurance is Necessary
Like we said, your new car loses value fast. In the first two years, a car can lose a full third of its value! Yet, it’s entirely likely that you owe more than that on your car loan. If it’s totaled, your checkbook might be, too.
Your auto insurance company is only going to pay out a specific amount of money, based on the make, model and year of your car. This value, known as the “Actual Cash Value” or ACV, is an industry-standard number that’s used by most auto insurance companies.
GAP with Benefits
Depending on your policy, however, your GAP insurance might do you even better than just paying off that loan. Some GAP insurance policies offer other perks. For example, a particular bank offers a GAP insurance policy on their car loans that will not only pay off the balance of the loan, but will give the consumer an extra grand off the cost of a new car loan. So, not only will you come out even on your old loan, you can buy a new ride for a thousand bucks less.
Why you shouldn’t lower your home insurance coverage when your home value drops
It’s a really common mistake and one that can cost a homeowner a ton of money in the event of a total loss to their home. Homeowners across the country see their property values dropping and assume that it’s a good time to lower their home insurance coverage. The problem with this is that your insurance covers the replacement cost of your home NOT the market value.
The replacement cost and the market value of your home are two very different things. The market value of your home is the price it would sell for in the current real estate market and includes the value of the land that the home sits on. On the other hand, the replacement cost of your home only includes the structure of your home (no land) and is calculated based on current construction rates in your area (amongst other things).
This misconception is even more dangerous now because while home values have dropped significantly over the past few years, construction costs have increased. This has many homeowners believing they are adequately insured while they are actually under-insured.
How to estimate your insurance coverage:
1- For a rough estimate on how much dwelling coverage your home may need you can ask your agent to use a cost estimator progam. It will use average construction costs in your area and the square footage of your home to provide an approximate coverage for your home. This tool only provides an estimate on coverage and should not be used as a true figure when purchasing a policy.
2- For a more exact idea about how much dwelling coverage you need, you should talk to one of our licensed homeowners insurance agents by calling 636-410-6219. Our licensed agents' will ask you about the various features of your home including building style, building materials, finished square footage, etc. to give you an estimated replacement value for your property.
3- Last but not least, make sure to review the coverage listed in your policy at least once a year or anytime you make any updates or significant renovations to your home. It’s important to do this as building costs can inflate and the replacement cost of your home may increase when you perform renovations and additions.
The replacement cost and the market value of your home are two very different things. The market value of your home is the price it would sell for in the current real estate market and includes the value of the land that the home sits on. On the other hand, the replacement cost of your home only includes the structure of your home (no land) and is calculated based on current construction rates in your area (amongst other things).
This misconception is even more dangerous now because while home values have dropped significantly over the past few years, construction costs have increased. This has many homeowners believing they are adequately insured while they are actually under-insured.
How to estimate your insurance coverage:
1- For a rough estimate on how much dwelling coverage your home may need you can ask your agent to use a cost estimator progam. It will use average construction costs in your area and the square footage of your home to provide an approximate coverage for your home. This tool only provides an estimate on coverage and should not be used as a true figure when purchasing a policy.
2- For a more exact idea about how much dwelling coverage you need, you should talk to one of our licensed homeowners insurance agents by calling 636-410-6219. Our licensed agents' will ask you about the various features of your home including building style, building materials, finished square footage, etc. to give you an estimated replacement value for your property.
3- Last but not least, make sure to review the coverage listed in your policy at least once a year or anytime you make any updates or significant renovations to your home. It’s important to do this as building costs can inflate and the replacement cost of your home may increase when you perform renovations and additions.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Missouri small business and Group health insurance benefit plans
At Select Insurance Group we pride ourselves in the ability to me more than just your average Missouri insurance agents—we strive to be the insurance leaders you depend on to protect all aspects of your business; including areas of coverage as specialized as Missouri Small Business and Group Health Benefits.
Have you thought about the advantages that will come with offering your employees group health insurance benefits? Did you know that group health insurance coverage is much more affordable than most realize? No matter the scope of your business enterprise, there is no doubt about the advantages you can access through with a Missouri small business health insurance plan from Select Insurance Group.
At Select Insurance Group, we are happy to provide custom, quality Group Health Benefits for hardworking employees, across the entire state! Offering benefits to your employees will attract a higher caliber of worker and enable your company to inevitably be more successful and more profitable. When a high-quality applicant looks for employment, two of the most important factors they consider are salary and benefits. At Select Insurance Group, we strive to help you retain stronger employees by arming you with an incredibly affordable and attractive employee health insurance package of benefits.
Typically, Missouri small business health insurance plans will cover the employer, employees, and many times the dependents of the employees. This type of health insurance is beneficial for you, the employer, because it will help you recruit and retain the best workers available. Also, if your employee has a history of medical issues, they cannot be turned down.
We can customize the group health insurance plans to taylor your company and employee's unique needs and can guarantee quality coverage for all at an affordable price
Our Missouri small business health insurance packages may include:
Health Insurance
Disability
Accident
Hospitalization
Life Insurance
Dental & Vision
Not sure how much coverage you need from your large or small business health insurance? Missouri clients rest assured—at Select Insurance Group we take the time to get to know you and your business, allowing us the opportunity to access risks and determine the most effective benefits package for yourself or your employees. We know that every business, business owner and employee is unique—which is exactly why your Group Health Benefits program must be as well.
Not sure if you even need a Group Health Benefits at your establishment? With our expert insurance knowledge and years of experience providing the utmost effective coverage for all of the State of Missouri, we at Select Insurance Group have had the opportunity to create an all-inclusive benefits packages that allow you to enjoy all the perks of working with an well-established brokerage
Contact us today for a free quote on Missouri small business health insurance and get your business on the track to success!
Have you thought about the advantages that will come with offering your employees group health insurance benefits? Did you know that group health insurance coverage is much more affordable than most realize? No matter the scope of your business enterprise, there is no doubt about the advantages you can access through with a Missouri small business health insurance plan from Select Insurance Group.
At Select Insurance Group, we are happy to provide custom, quality Group Health Benefits for hardworking employees, across the entire state! Offering benefits to your employees will attract a higher caliber of worker and enable your company to inevitably be more successful and more profitable. When a high-quality applicant looks for employment, two of the most important factors they consider are salary and benefits. At Select Insurance Group, we strive to help you retain stronger employees by arming you with an incredibly affordable and attractive employee health insurance package of benefits.
Typically, Missouri small business health insurance plans will cover the employer, employees, and many times the dependents of the employees. This type of health insurance is beneficial for you, the employer, because it will help you recruit and retain the best workers available. Also, if your employee has a history of medical issues, they cannot be turned down.
We can customize the group health insurance plans to taylor your company and employee's unique needs and can guarantee quality coverage for all at an affordable price
Our Missouri small business health insurance packages may include:
Health Insurance
Disability
Accident
Hospitalization
Life Insurance
Dental & Vision
Not sure how much coverage you need from your large or small business health insurance? Missouri clients rest assured—at Select Insurance Group we take the time to get to know you and your business, allowing us the opportunity to access risks and determine the most effective benefits package for yourself or your employees. We know that every business, business owner and employee is unique—which is exactly why your Group Health Benefits program must be as well.
Not sure if you even need a Group Health Benefits at your establishment? With our expert insurance knowledge and years of experience providing the utmost effective coverage for all of the State of Missouri, we at Select Insurance Group have had the opportunity to create an all-inclusive benefits packages that allow you to enjoy all the perks of working with an well-established brokerage
Contact us today for a free quote on Missouri small business health insurance and get your business on the track to success!
Guaranteed health insurance coverage For Missouri Residents
Affordable health insurance coverage for Missouri Individuals and families
• Any Doctor or Choose a Network Provider
• High Hospital & Surgical Benefits
• ICU/CCU. Benefits (Some Plans)
• Daily Hospital Benefits
• Doctor Visits
• Anesthesia Benefit
• coverage for Lab & X-ray
• Coverage for Preventative Care
• Accident Benefits
• Maternity Coverage (10 month waiting period)
• Any Doctor or Choose a Network Provider
• High Hospital & Surgical Benefits
• ICU/CCU. Benefits (Some Plans)
• Daily Hospital Benefits
• Doctor Visits
• Anesthesia Benefit
• coverage for Lab & X-ray
• Coverage for Preventative Care
• Accident Benefits
• Maternity Coverage (10 month waiting period)
Missouri COBRA and State Continuation Coverage informaiton
Please contact us at 855-GET-SELECT (855) 438-7353 Ext 101 for a FREE HEALTHCARE CONSULTATION
When do I have to be offered COBRA coverage?
If you are leaving your job and you had group coverage, you may be able to stay in your group plan for an extended time through COBRA coverage. The information presented below was taken from publications prepared by the U.S. Department of Labor. You should contact them for more information about your rights under COBRA.
To qualify for COBRA continuation coverage, you must meet 3 criteria:
-First, you must work for an employer with 20 or more employees. If you work for an employer with 2-19 employees, you may qualify for state continuation coverage.
-Second, you must be covered under the employer’s group health plan as an employee or as the spouse or dependent child of an employee.
-Finally, you must have a qualifying event that would cause you to lose your group health plan.
COBRA QUALIFYING EVENTS
For employees
Voluntary or involuntary termination of employment for reasons other than gross misconduct
Reduction in numbers of hours worked
For spouses
Loss of coverage by the employee because of one of the qualifying events listed above
Covered employee becomes eligible for Medicare
Divorce or legal separation of the covered employee
Death of the covered employee
For dependent children
Loss of coverage because of any of the qualifying events listed for spouses
Loss of status as a dependent child under the plan rules
Each person who is eligible for COBRA continuation can make his or her own decision. If your dependents were covered under your employer plan, they may independently elect COBRA coverage as well.
You must be notified of your COBRA rights when you join the group health plan, and again if you qualify for COBRA coverage. The notice rules are somewhat complicated and you should contact the U.S. Department of Labor for more information.
In general, if the event that qualifies you for COBRA coverage involves the death, termination, reduction in hours worked, or Medicare eligibility of a covered worker, the employer has 30 days to notify the group health plan of this event. However, if the qualifying event involves divorce or legal separation or loss of dependent status, you have 60 days to notify the group health plan. Once it has been notified of the qualifying event, the group health plan has 14 days to send you a notice about how to elect COBRA coverage. Each member of your family eligible for COBRA coverage then has 60 days to make this election.
Once you elect COBRA, coverage will begin retroactive to the qualifying event. You will have to pay premiums dating back to this period.
SPECIAL SECOND CHANCE TO ELECT COBRA FOR TRADE-DISLOCATED WORKERS
A second COBRA election period may be available for TAA eligible people who did not elect cobra when it was first offered. The second election period can be exercised 60 days from the 1st day of TAA eligibility, but in no case later than 6 months following loss of coverage. Coverage elected during this second election begins retroactive to the beginning of the special election period - not back to qualifying event.
Certain people who lost their job-based health coverage because of the impact of imports on their employers have a limited second chance to elect COBRA. People who are receiving benefits from the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Program are eligible for a federal income tax credit (the Health Coverage Tax Credit, or HCTC) that will pay 65% of their premiums.
For some laid off workers, TAA benefits begin after their 60-day period to elect COBRA continuation coverage has expired. In this circumstance, TAA-eligible people have a second 60-day period, starting on the date of their TAA eligibility, to elect COBRA. (However, in no case can COBRA be elected more than 6-months following the original qualifying event (i.e. layoff) that caused the loss of group health plan coverage.)
When COBRA is elected during this special, second election period, coverage starts on the first date of the special election period. Any time that has elapsed between the original qualifying event and the first date of the special election period is not counted as a lapse in coverage in determining continuous coverage history.
To qualify as HIPAA eligible, you must use up any COBRA or state continuation coverage available to you.
What will COBRA cover?
Your covered health benefits under COBRA will be the same as those you had before you qualified for COBRA. For example, if you had coverage for medical, hospitalization, dental, vision, and prescription drug benefits before COBRA, you can continue coverage for all of these benefits under COBRA. If these benefits were covered under more than one plan (for example, a separate health insurance and dental insurance plan) you can choose to continue coverage under any or all of the plans. Life insurance is not covered by COBRA.
If your employer changes the health benefits package after your qualifying event, you must be offered coverage identical to that available to other active employees who are covered under the plan.
What about coverage for my pre-existing condition?
Because your group coverage is continuing, you will not have a new pre-existing condition exclusion period under COBRA. However, if you were in the middle of a pre-existing condition exclusion period when your qualifying event occurred, you will have to finish it.
What can I be charged for COBRA coverage?
You must pay the entire premium (employer and employee share, plus a 2% administrative fee) for COBRA continuation coverage. The first premium must be paid within 45 days of electing COBRA coverage.
If you elect the 11-month disability extension, the premium will increase to 150% of the total cost of coverage. See below for more information about the disability extension.
If you lost your group health plan and are receiving benefits from the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Program, you may be eligible for a federal income tax credit to help you pay for new health coverage. This credit is called the Health Care Tax Credit (HCTC), and it is equal to 65% of the cost of qualified health coverage, including COBRA.
If you are a retiree aged 55-65 and receiving pension benefits from PBGC, and receiving benefits from the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Program, then you may be eligible for a federal income tax credit to help pay for new health coverage.
How long does COBRA coverage last?
COBRA coverage generally lasts up to 18 months and cannot be renewed. However, certain disabled people can opt for coverage up to 29 months, and dependents are sometimes eligible for up to 36 months of COBRA continuation coverage, depending on their qualifying event.
HOW LONG CAN COBRA COVERAGE LAST?
Qualifying event(s) — Eligible person(s) — Coverage
Termination — Employee/Spouse/Dependent Child — 18 months *
Reduced hours– Employee/Spouse/Dependent Child — 18 months *
Employee enrolls in Medicare — Spouse/Dependent Child — 36 months
Divorce or legal separation– Spouse/Dependent Child — 36 months
Death of covered employee– Spouse/Dependent Child — 36 months
Loss of “dependent child” status — Dependent child — 36 months
* Certain disabled persons and their eligible family members can extend coverage an additional 11 months, for a total of up to 29 months.
Usually, COBRA continuation coverage ends when you join a new health plan. However, if your new plan has a waiting period or a pre-existing condition exclusion period, you can keep whatever COBRA continuation coverage you have left during that period. For specifics, ask your former employer or contact the U.S. Department of Labor.
COBRA coverage also ends if your employer stops offering a health benefit plan to its other employees.
COBRA coverage might end if you are in a managed care plan that is available only to people living in a limited geographic area and you move out of that area. However, if you are eligible for COBRA and are moving out of your current health plan’s service area, your employer must provide you with the opportunity to switch to a different plan, but only if the employer already offers other plans to its employees. Examples of the other plans your employer may offer you are a managed care plan whose service area includes the area you are moving to, or another plan that does not have a limited service area.
What about state continuation coverage?
Missouri law provides for continuation coverage in certain circumstances. If any of the following situations is similar to yours, ask your former employer or the Missouri Department of Insurance to see if you are eligible for state continuation coverage.
Persons who were covered under a group health plan for at least 3 months and whose employer had fewer than 20 employees can qualify for 9 months of continuation coverage.
Surviving spouses over the age of 55 who have used up their federal COBRA continuation and whose coverage was through a fully insured group plan may be able to continue coverage until they reach age 65 or otherwise lose eligibility.
In certain circumstances, persons who have fully insured group plans and become disabled may also be able to extend their benefits for a limited time.
For more information, please visit our website at www.selectinsuranceteam.com or call us for a FREE HEALTH CONSULTATION at 855-438-7353 (855)GET-SELECT
When do I have to be offered COBRA coverage?
If you are leaving your job and you had group coverage, you may be able to stay in your group plan for an extended time through COBRA coverage. The information presented below was taken from publications prepared by the U.S. Department of Labor. You should contact them for more information about your rights under COBRA.
To qualify for COBRA continuation coverage, you must meet 3 criteria:
-First, you must work for an employer with 20 or more employees. If you work for an employer with 2-19 employees, you may qualify for state continuation coverage.
-Second, you must be covered under the employer’s group health plan as an employee or as the spouse or dependent child of an employee.
-Finally, you must have a qualifying event that would cause you to lose your group health plan.
COBRA QUALIFYING EVENTS
For employees
Voluntary or involuntary termination of employment for reasons other than gross misconduct
Reduction in numbers of hours worked
For spouses
Loss of coverage by the employee because of one of the qualifying events listed above
Covered employee becomes eligible for Medicare
Divorce or legal separation of the covered employee
Death of the covered employee
For dependent children
Loss of coverage because of any of the qualifying events listed for spouses
Loss of status as a dependent child under the plan rules
Each person who is eligible for COBRA continuation can make his or her own decision. If your dependents were covered under your employer plan, they may independently elect COBRA coverage as well.
You must be notified of your COBRA rights when you join the group health plan, and again if you qualify for COBRA coverage. The notice rules are somewhat complicated and you should contact the U.S. Department of Labor for more information.
In general, if the event that qualifies you for COBRA coverage involves the death, termination, reduction in hours worked, or Medicare eligibility of a covered worker, the employer has 30 days to notify the group health plan of this event. However, if the qualifying event involves divorce or legal separation or loss of dependent status, you have 60 days to notify the group health plan. Once it has been notified of the qualifying event, the group health plan has 14 days to send you a notice about how to elect COBRA coverage. Each member of your family eligible for COBRA coverage then has 60 days to make this election.
Once you elect COBRA, coverage will begin retroactive to the qualifying event. You will have to pay premiums dating back to this period.
SPECIAL SECOND CHANCE TO ELECT COBRA FOR TRADE-DISLOCATED WORKERS
A second COBRA election period may be available for TAA eligible people who did not elect cobra when it was first offered. The second election period can be exercised 60 days from the 1st day of TAA eligibility, but in no case later than 6 months following loss of coverage. Coverage elected during this second election begins retroactive to the beginning of the special election period - not back to qualifying event.
Certain people who lost their job-based health coverage because of the impact of imports on their employers have a limited second chance to elect COBRA. People who are receiving benefits from the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Program are eligible for a federal income tax credit (the Health Coverage Tax Credit, or HCTC) that will pay 65% of their premiums.
For some laid off workers, TAA benefits begin after their 60-day period to elect COBRA continuation coverage has expired. In this circumstance, TAA-eligible people have a second 60-day period, starting on the date of their TAA eligibility, to elect COBRA. (However, in no case can COBRA be elected more than 6-months following the original qualifying event (i.e. layoff) that caused the loss of group health plan coverage.)
When COBRA is elected during this special, second election period, coverage starts on the first date of the special election period. Any time that has elapsed between the original qualifying event and the first date of the special election period is not counted as a lapse in coverage in determining continuous coverage history.
To qualify as HIPAA eligible, you must use up any COBRA or state continuation coverage available to you.
What will COBRA cover?
Your covered health benefits under COBRA will be the same as those you had before you qualified for COBRA. For example, if you had coverage for medical, hospitalization, dental, vision, and prescription drug benefits before COBRA, you can continue coverage for all of these benefits under COBRA. If these benefits were covered under more than one plan (for example, a separate health insurance and dental insurance plan) you can choose to continue coverage under any or all of the plans. Life insurance is not covered by COBRA.
If your employer changes the health benefits package after your qualifying event, you must be offered coverage identical to that available to other active employees who are covered under the plan.
What about coverage for my pre-existing condition?
Because your group coverage is continuing, you will not have a new pre-existing condition exclusion period under COBRA. However, if you were in the middle of a pre-existing condition exclusion period when your qualifying event occurred, you will have to finish it.
What can I be charged for COBRA coverage?
You must pay the entire premium (employer and employee share, plus a 2% administrative fee) for COBRA continuation coverage. The first premium must be paid within 45 days of electing COBRA coverage.
If you elect the 11-month disability extension, the premium will increase to 150% of the total cost of coverage. See below for more information about the disability extension.
If you lost your group health plan and are receiving benefits from the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Program, you may be eligible for a federal income tax credit to help you pay for new health coverage. This credit is called the Health Care Tax Credit (HCTC), and it is equal to 65% of the cost of qualified health coverage, including COBRA.
If you are a retiree aged 55-65 and receiving pension benefits from PBGC, and receiving benefits from the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Program, then you may be eligible for a federal income tax credit to help pay for new health coverage.
How long does COBRA coverage last?
COBRA coverage generally lasts up to 18 months and cannot be renewed. However, certain disabled people can opt for coverage up to 29 months, and dependents are sometimes eligible for up to 36 months of COBRA continuation coverage, depending on their qualifying event.
HOW LONG CAN COBRA COVERAGE LAST?
Qualifying event(s) — Eligible person(s) — Coverage
Termination — Employee/Spouse/Dependent Child — 18 months *
Reduced hours– Employee/Spouse/Dependent Child — 18 months *
Employee enrolls in Medicare — Spouse/Dependent Child — 36 months
Divorce or legal separation– Spouse/Dependent Child — 36 months
Death of covered employee– Spouse/Dependent Child — 36 months
Loss of “dependent child” status — Dependent child — 36 months
* Certain disabled persons and their eligible family members can extend coverage an additional 11 months, for a total of up to 29 months.
Usually, COBRA continuation coverage ends when you join a new health plan. However, if your new plan has a waiting period or a pre-existing condition exclusion period, you can keep whatever COBRA continuation coverage you have left during that period. For specifics, ask your former employer or contact the U.S. Department of Labor.
COBRA coverage also ends if your employer stops offering a health benefit plan to its other employees.
COBRA coverage might end if you are in a managed care plan that is available only to people living in a limited geographic area and you move out of that area. However, if you are eligible for COBRA and are moving out of your current health plan’s service area, your employer must provide you with the opportunity to switch to a different plan, but only if the employer already offers other plans to its employees. Examples of the other plans your employer may offer you are a managed care plan whose service area includes the area you are moving to, or another plan that does not have a limited service area.
What about state continuation coverage?
Missouri law provides for continuation coverage in certain circumstances. If any of the following situations is similar to yours, ask your former employer or the Missouri Department of Insurance to see if you are eligible for state continuation coverage.
Persons who were covered under a group health plan for at least 3 months and whose employer had fewer than 20 employees can qualify for 9 months of continuation coverage.
Surviving spouses over the age of 55 who have used up their federal COBRA continuation and whose coverage was through a fully insured group plan may be able to continue coverage until they reach age 65 or otherwise lose eligibility.
In certain circumstances, persons who have fully insured group plans and become disabled may also be able to extend their benefits for a limited time.
For more information, please visit our website at www.selectinsuranceteam.com or call us for a FREE HEALTH CONSULTATION at 855-438-7353 (855)GET-SELECT
alternatives to COBRA health insurance
Most people are not aware that there are alternatives to COBRA health insurance plans. COBRA is expensive temporary insurance. Why not explore these alternatives and save money? Our company works with multiple A-Rated carriers and can guarantee acceptance without pre-existing conditions. If you would like to save more than 50% from your COBRA Payment, please call us or fill out our FREE QUOTE FORM. You can apply today and be insured the very same day. We offer affordable health insurance for everyone, including your college students. So if you have a son or daughter in college and you are keeping them on COBRA because you are not aware of your options, please contact us today!
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
How Good Student Discounts Can Affect Auto Insurance Rates
Getting a driver's license is every teenager's biggest dream - at least at the time. It gives them the opportunity to take on the responsibility of driving and being able to get themselves from point A to point B. Obtaining that card also gives parents a chance to see how their children react when given that level of responsibility and are always content to see them achieve such an accomplishment. But getting a license is also followed by the purchasing of a car for the teen or putting them on the auto insurance policy of their parents. In either case, the cost to insure a teenager or new driver can often be quite high since they have no driving experience on the road and teens tend to be erratic drivers. Even with the rising insurance costs in the auto insurance realm, there are still ways to get discounts for teens and college students through educational discounts that just about everyone can take advantage of.
With the rising insurance costs associated with auto insurance, it's important to take advantage of any discounts available to drivers. Luckily for parents, there are a few different educational discounts that can be utilized to lower the monthly premiums for insurance policies containing young drivers. These educational discounts can be applied to both teens in high school and young adults in college and the great thing is that most states allow children to stay on their parent's auto insurance plan until they turn 25.
One of the best and easiest discounts to take advantage of is the good grades discount. This discount is just as simple and self-explanatory as the title itself. Any teen or young adult that does well in school and maintains a GPA average (determined by the insurance company), will get a discount on their auto insurance. The way to prove this is by getting the quarter's report card for high school students and a semester's worth of grades for college students. This is all the proof that's needed for the insurance company to apply the correct discount.
Another great discount available also has to do with grades but takes it a step further. For those that stay on the dean's list (college students) or honor roll (high school students), additional discounts are available. For students that are consistent, some insurance companies even give extra discounts for each semester. This means a much lower premium on the auto insurance policy.
In order to find out if your insurance policy gets these discounts, it's important to speak to an insurance agent. If the discounts aren't automatically applied, then speak to an insurance agent.
With the rising insurance costs associated with auto insurance, it's important to take advantage of any discounts available to drivers. Luckily for parents, there are a few different educational discounts that can be utilized to lower the monthly premiums for insurance policies containing young drivers. These educational discounts can be applied to both teens in high school and young adults in college and the great thing is that most states allow children to stay on their parent's auto insurance plan until they turn 25.
One of the best and easiest discounts to take advantage of is the good grades discount. This discount is just as simple and self-explanatory as the title itself. Any teen or young adult that does well in school and maintains a GPA average (determined by the insurance company), will get a discount on their auto insurance. The way to prove this is by getting the quarter's report card for high school students and a semester's worth of grades for college students. This is all the proof that's needed for the insurance company to apply the correct discount.
Another great discount available also has to do with grades but takes it a step further. For those that stay on the dean's list (college students) or honor roll (high school students), additional discounts are available. For students that are consistent, some insurance companies even give extra discounts for each semester. This means a much lower premium on the auto insurance policy.
In order to find out if your insurance policy gets these discounts, it's important to speak to an insurance agent. If the discounts aren't automatically applied, then speak to an insurance agent.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Missouri breath alcohol ignition interlock device
A breath alcohol ignition interlock is a device that is installed in the dashboard of a person’s vehicle who has been required by the courts to have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle as a condition of having their license reinstated in order to drive. You will also be required by the DMV to provide proof of SR22 insurance coverage before they will reinstate your driver's license.
How Does An Ignition Interlock Device Work?
The breath alcohol ignition interlock device is connected to a vehicles starter system. The ignition interlock device can be setup to register a failed reading anywhere from .00% BAC to slightly higher levels, but typically not above .04% BAC.
The breath alcohol ignition interlock device works by measuring the BAC or blood alcohol concentration also referred to as BAL or blood alcohol level of the vehicle’s driver before and during the operation of said vehicle.
If the blood alcohol concentration registered by the ignition interlock system is higher than the preprogrammed level that was set by the company that installed the ignition interlock device, the vehicle will not start. The courts in each state determine the programmed level that will be set by the company performing the installation. Typically this level will be between .02% and .04% depending on the state law.
Also at preprogrammed intervals while the vehicle is in operation, the breath alcohol ignition interlock device will require breath samples from the vehicle operator in order for the vehicle to continue operating. If a breath sample is not provided, or the sample that is registered by the ignition interlock device exceeds the limit that has been preset by the ignition interlock provider, the unit will record the occurrence, warn the driver and then start its alarm, which will consist of the lights flashing, horn honking, etc. before shutting down.
The vehicle operator will be required to blow into the ignition interlock device in order to start their vehicle because the vehicle will not start without first providing a breath sample. Then typically after 10 to 15 minutes of running, the device will request another breath sample. Then a breath sample will be required approximately every 15 to 30 minutes afterwards. The reason for the frequent testing is to prevent a person from having a friend start their vehicle and then allowing the impaired driver to take over vehicle operation.
When it is time for a breath sample, the ignition interlock system will let the driver know that a sample is required. The ignition interlock system will allow enough time for the driver to safely pull to the side of the road before the sample must be given.
Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device Pro’s & Con’s
An ignition interlock device has its proponents and opponents. Groups like MADD support the use of an ignition interlock device saying that the use of an ignition interlock device has proven to be up to 90% effective in the prevention of drunk driving.
While opponents of ignition interlock devices say that test results show the devices have numerous flaws and are not effective in reducing DUI or drunk driving incidents for first-time offenders.
One major flaw of an ignition interlock device is that items such as mouthwash can cause a vehicle not to start. Imagine you’re ready to leave for work in the morning and go out to start your vehicle, but it won’t start because it registered a BAC above the preset limit. What could cause a situation like this? Mouthwashes that most people use in the morning contain alcohol.
An ignition interlock device was originally implemented to prevent those who were considered hardcore alcoholics from drinking and driving after having been convicted of a DUI. Current proposals would mandate ignition interlock devices for all offenders in every state, in essence treating the person who was barely over the legal limit the same as the individual who had a blood alcohol concentration of .16% or twice the legal limit.
The breath alcohol ignition interlock device keeps a record of the device's activity and the interlocked vehicles electrical system. This data will be downloaded each time the vehicle is taken in to be calibrated, which is typically set to 30, 60 or 90-day intervals.
If a violation is detected between service intervals, the vehicle must be taken to the ignition interlock service provider to be reset. When this happens a record of the violation will be sent to the offender’s probation officer. Depending on state laws a separate offense like this can be considered a violation of the terms of the offender’s probation, which can result in additional sanctions being imposed such as the offender’s probation being revoked.
Ignition Interlock Device Prices
The overall cost of installation, calibration and scheduled maintenance is the responsibility of the offender. An ignition interlock device will cost around $75 per month and a couple hundred dollars to be installed. Some states have programs that will subsidize the monthly cost if the offender can prove that they do not have the financial means to pay the monthly charges. But the main goal for every state is that their ignition interlock program is self sustaining since the DUI offender is required to pay the fees.
State Ignition Interlock Laws
An ignition interlock device is mandatory for all offenders in the following states: Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Washington, Louisiana and Illinois.
An ignition interlock device is mandatory for all offenders who reinstate their license in the state of Oregon.
An ignition interlock device is mandatory for all high BAC and repeat offenders in the following states: Hawaii, Florida, Kansas, Virginia, West Virginia and New Hampshire.
An ignition interlock device is required for certain offenders in the following states: California, Idaho, Utah, Texas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Missouri, Mississippi, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Maryland.
A ignition interlock device is allowed, but not required in the following states: Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Georgia, North Carolina, New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Rhode Island and the District of Columbia.
The following states do not currently have ignition interlock laws: Alabama, South Dakota, Maine and Vermont.
Where Do I Get An Ignition Interlock System Installed?
Upon conviction, the court will provide you with a list of ignition interlock providers who have been approved by the state. The provider that you choose to do the installation will also be the service provider for the maintenance and calibration of the ignition interlock device. Your DUI lawyerwill more than likely know who offers the best service and has the most affordable prices in your county
How Does An Ignition Interlock Device Work?
The breath alcohol ignition interlock device is connected to a vehicles starter system. The ignition interlock device can be setup to register a failed reading anywhere from .00% BAC to slightly higher levels, but typically not above .04% BAC.
The breath alcohol ignition interlock device works by measuring the BAC or blood alcohol concentration also referred to as BAL or blood alcohol level of the vehicle’s driver before and during the operation of said vehicle.
If the blood alcohol concentration registered by the ignition interlock system is higher than the preprogrammed level that was set by the company that installed the ignition interlock device, the vehicle will not start. The courts in each state determine the programmed level that will be set by the company performing the installation. Typically this level will be between .02% and .04% depending on the state law.
Also at preprogrammed intervals while the vehicle is in operation, the breath alcohol ignition interlock device will require breath samples from the vehicle operator in order for the vehicle to continue operating. If a breath sample is not provided, or the sample that is registered by the ignition interlock device exceeds the limit that has been preset by the ignition interlock provider, the unit will record the occurrence, warn the driver and then start its alarm, which will consist of the lights flashing, horn honking, etc. before shutting down.
The vehicle operator will be required to blow into the ignition interlock device in order to start their vehicle because the vehicle will not start without first providing a breath sample. Then typically after 10 to 15 minutes of running, the device will request another breath sample. Then a breath sample will be required approximately every 15 to 30 minutes afterwards. The reason for the frequent testing is to prevent a person from having a friend start their vehicle and then allowing the impaired driver to take over vehicle operation.
When it is time for a breath sample, the ignition interlock system will let the driver know that a sample is required. The ignition interlock system will allow enough time for the driver to safely pull to the side of the road before the sample must be given.
Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device Pro’s & Con’s
An ignition interlock device has its proponents and opponents. Groups like MADD support the use of an ignition interlock device saying that the use of an ignition interlock device has proven to be up to 90% effective in the prevention of drunk driving.
While opponents of ignition interlock devices say that test results show the devices have numerous flaws and are not effective in reducing DUI or drunk driving incidents for first-time offenders.
One major flaw of an ignition interlock device is that items such as mouthwash can cause a vehicle not to start. Imagine you’re ready to leave for work in the morning and go out to start your vehicle, but it won’t start because it registered a BAC above the preset limit. What could cause a situation like this? Mouthwashes that most people use in the morning contain alcohol.
An ignition interlock device was originally implemented to prevent those who were considered hardcore alcoholics from drinking and driving after having been convicted of a DUI. Current proposals would mandate ignition interlock devices for all offenders in every state, in essence treating the person who was barely over the legal limit the same as the individual who had a blood alcohol concentration of .16% or twice the legal limit.
The breath alcohol ignition interlock device keeps a record of the device's activity and the interlocked vehicles electrical system. This data will be downloaded each time the vehicle is taken in to be calibrated, which is typically set to 30, 60 or 90-day intervals.
If a violation is detected between service intervals, the vehicle must be taken to the ignition interlock service provider to be reset. When this happens a record of the violation will be sent to the offender’s probation officer. Depending on state laws a separate offense like this can be considered a violation of the terms of the offender’s probation, which can result in additional sanctions being imposed such as the offender’s probation being revoked.
Ignition Interlock Device Prices
The overall cost of installation, calibration and scheduled maintenance is the responsibility of the offender. An ignition interlock device will cost around $75 per month and a couple hundred dollars to be installed. Some states have programs that will subsidize the monthly cost if the offender can prove that they do not have the financial means to pay the monthly charges. But the main goal for every state is that their ignition interlock program is self sustaining since the DUI offender is required to pay the fees.
State Ignition Interlock Laws
An ignition interlock device is mandatory for all offenders in the following states: Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Washington, Louisiana and Illinois.
An ignition interlock device is mandatory for all offenders who reinstate their license in the state of Oregon.
An ignition interlock device is mandatory for all high BAC and repeat offenders in the following states: Hawaii, Florida, Kansas, Virginia, West Virginia and New Hampshire.
An ignition interlock device is required for certain offenders in the following states: California, Idaho, Utah, Texas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Missouri, Mississippi, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Maryland.
A ignition interlock device is allowed, but not required in the following states: Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Georgia, North Carolina, New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Rhode Island and the District of Columbia.
The following states do not currently have ignition interlock laws: Alabama, South Dakota, Maine and Vermont.
Where Do I Get An Ignition Interlock System Installed?
Upon conviction, the court will provide you with a list of ignition interlock providers who have been approved by the state. The provider that you choose to do the installation will also be the service provider for the maintenance and calibration of the ignition interlock device. Your DUI lawyerwill more than likely know who offers the best service and has the most affordable prices in your county
Missouri DWI laws & Penalties
The state of Missouri persues both Missouri DWI and Missouri DUI cases. A Missouri DWI commonly refers to a drunk driving violation, whereas a DUI refers to driving while under the influence of drugs. If you are arrested for a Missouri DWI it means that you were driving with a blood alcohol level of .08% or greater. This is true only of tests administered up to three hours after the arrest. The Missouri "per se" law allows police to arrest (and the courts to convict) even if your ability to drive was not impaired if you submitted a chemical test of .08% or greater.
If you are arrested on charges of Missouri DWI and refuse to take the blood alcohol test, or if you did take the test and you were above the legal limit, you can lose your license. You have fifteen days after the arrest to take action to protect your driving privilege. It is crucial to have the help of a lawyer for this!
Penalties for Missouri DWI
A Missouri DWI is considered a misdemeanor, provided it is a first offense. In this case, you will be facing a possible jail sentence of up to six months. Also, you will have to pay a fine that cannot exceed $500. Keep in mind, though, that you will also be responsible for paying for your court and incarceration costs. You will lose your license for 30 days, and also face a 60-day restricted driving period. During this restricted time you can drive to and from work and your alcohol education classes. Also, this will be part of your permanent driving record.
A Missouri DWI conviction also carries the requirement of attending the Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program, or SATOP. The SATOP class costs $190. You will also have to pay to have your license reinstated when you complete the class.
The court also has the option to ask a first time Missouri DWI arrestee to drive only with an ignition interlock device for the duration of the probation period, which is 1 to 2 years. This device will keep the car from starting when the driver has alcohol in his system. This device comes with a monthly maintenance fee that will be your responsibility.
Finally, remember that your Missouri DWI will cause your insurance premiums to increase significantly. No matter if there were injuries or not due to your driving drunk, you will see a huge rise in premiums. You may even lose your current coverage and be forced to seek alternative car insurance.
Here is a summary of the punishments faced for a Missouri DWI:
Missouri DWI First Offense
•Class B misdemeanor
•Up to 6 months in jail
•Up to $500 in fines
•1 to 2 years probation
•90 day drivers license suspension (temporary after 30 days)
Missouri DWI Second Offense
•Class A misdemeanor
•Up to 1 year in jail
•Up to $1,000 in fines
•1 to 2 years probation
•5 years drivers license suspension
Missouri DWI Third Offense
•Class D felony
•Up to 5 years in prison
•Up to $5,000 in fines
•1 to 2 years probation
•10 years drivers license suspension
Missouri BAC Assumptions
•Bac reading of .08 or greater is evidence of intoxication at the time the test was taken.
Missouri Implied Consent Laws
•Chemical testing is allowed. Blood, breath, urine or saliva.
•The arresting officer is required to advise the defendant of the penalties for refusal. A test refusal is admissible in court. The defendant has 20 minutes to contact an attorney.
•Tests resulting in a BAC reading of .08 or greater result in a 30 day suspension.
•Test refusal results in a 1 year license revocation, is admissible in court. The completion of a substance abuse traffic offender program may be required for a license to be reistated.
•PBT test results are admissible as evidence of probable cause, but not as evidence of BAC level.
Chemical Testing
•Blood draws for police testing must be administered by a licensed physician, registered nurse or other qualified person.
•The defendent has the right to have an independent chemical test done by a qualified person. The independent test costs are the defendant's responsibility.
•Test results must be provided to the defendant and their Missouri DWI attorney upon request.
Missouri SR22 Insurance
In Missouri, after you get a DWI conviction in order to get your drivers license back you'll be required to carry what's known as a SR22 insurance policy for a period of 3 years. The SR22 insurance policy is a high risk auto insurance policy that is mandated by the Missouri Department of Motor Vehicles and provided by smaller companies that specialize in this type of auto insurance.
We have worked out a special discount only available here for our website visitors. You won't be able to find a cheaper SR22 insurance policy in Missouri for any less.
If you are arrested on charges of Missouri DWI and refuse to take the blood alcohol test, or if you did take the test and you were above the legal limit, you can lose your license. You have fifteen days after the arrest to take action to protect your driving privilege. It is crucial to have the help of a lawyer for this!
Penalties for Missouri DWI
A Missouri DWI is considered a misdemeanor, provided it is a first offense. In this case, you will be facing a possible jail sentence of up to six months. Also, you will have to pay a fine that cannot exceed $500. Keep in mind, though, that you will also be responsible for paying for your court and incarceration costs. You will lose your license for 30 days, and also face a 60-day restricted driving period. During this restricted time you can drive to and from work and your alcohol education classes. Also, this will be part of your permanent driving record.
A Missouri DWI conviction also carries the requirement of attending the Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program, or SATOP. The SATOP class costs $190. You will also have to pay to have your license reinstated when you complete the class.
The court also has the option to ask a first time Missouri DWI arrestee to drive only with an ignition interlock device for the duration of the probation period, which is 1 to 2 years. This device will keep the car from starting when the driver has alcohol in his system. This device comes with a monthly maintenance fee that will be your responsibility.
Finally, remember that your Missouri DWI will cause your insurance premiums to increase significantly. No matter if there were injuries or not due to your driving drunk, you will see a huge rise in premiums. You may even lose your current coverage and be forced to seek alternative car insurance.
Here is a summary of the punishments faced for a Missouri DWI:
Missouri DWI First Offense
•Class B misdemeanor
•Up to 6 months in jail
•Up to $500 in fines
•1 to 2 years probation
•90 day drivers license suspension (temporary after 30 days)
Missouri DWI Second Offense
•Class A misdemeanor
•Up to 1 year in jail
•Up to $1,000 in fines
•1 to 2 years probation
•5 years drivers license suspension
Missouri DWI Third Offense
•Class D felony
•Up to 5 years in prison
•Up to $5,000 in fines
•1 to 2 years probation
•10 years drivers license suspension
Missouri BAC Assumptions
•Bac reading of .08 or greater is evidence of intoxication at the time the test was taken.
Missouri Implied Consent Laws
•Chemical testing is allowed. Blood, breath, urine or saliva.
•The arresting officer is required to advise the defendant of the penalties for refusal. A test refusal is admissible in court. The defendant has 20 minutes to contact an attorney.
•Tests resulting in a BAC reading of .08 or greater result in a 30 day suspension.
•Test refusal results in a 1 year license revocation, is admissible in court. The completion of a substance abuse traffic offender program may be required for a license to be reistated.
•PBT test results are admissible as evidence of probable cause, but not as evidence of BAC level.
Chemical Testing
•Blood draws for police testing must be administered by a licensed physician, registered nurse or other qualified person.
•The defendent has the right to have an independent chemical test done by a qualified person. The independent test costs are the defendant's responsibility.
•Test results must be provided to the defendant and their Missouri DWI attorney upon request.
Missouri SR22 Insurance
In Missouri, after you get a DWI conviction in order to get your drivers license back you'll be required to carry what's known as a SR22 insurance policy for a period of 3 years. The SR22 insurance policy is a high risk auto insurance policy that is mandated by the Missouri Department of Motor Vehicles and provided by smaller companies that specialize in this type of auto insurance.
We have worked out a special discount only available here for our website visitors. You won't be able to find a cheaper SR22 insurance policy in Missouri for any less.
What If I Already Have An SR22 Insurance Policy? Can You Still Save Me Money?
Even if you already have SR22 Insurance you'll want to fill out the quote form because you'll most likely save at least several hundred dollars by taking advantage of our exclusive partnership. There is no obligation at all by requesting a quote, it's free, and it only takes about a minute and a half to do.
We've gone out of our way to help you; there is absolutely no reason not to fill out a free quote and see how much you'll save on one of our SR22 insurance policies.
Your Privacy is Vigorously Protected. We do not forward your information on to anyone for any reason. Your information is collected within a state-of-the-art secure web enviornment (similar to banking institutions) and will never be used in any other manner other than to provide you with the lowest SR22 insurance quote available.
We've gone out of our way to help you; there is absolutely no reason not to fill out a free quote and see how much you'll save on one of our SR22 insurance policies.
Your Privacy is Vigorously Protected. We do not forward your information on to anyone for any reason. Your information is collected within a state-of-the-art secure web enviornment (similar to banking institutions) and will never be used in any other manner other than to provide you with the lowest SR22 insurance quote available.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Affordable Health Insurance for barbering & cosmetology professionals
The sad truth about health & dental insurance for barbering & cosmetology professionals is that many times it won’t happen unless you work in a large salon and your employer pays for you to have it. Many factors play a part in this: price, employee participation, turnover, and being a 1099 self-employed "booth rent" person.
Select Insurance Group offers AFFORDABLE insurance coverage for barbering & cosmetology professionals, regardless of pre-existing health conditions- all starting at under 99$/mo and include benefits like disability and maternity. Do we have your attention? Select Insurance Group offers a proprietary product, exclusive for young professionals, with guaranteed acceptance. As long as you are working 30 hours a week, you're approved, guaranteed!
I need you to go to your phone , pick it up, and call one of our licensed insurance professionals at 855-GET-SELECT (855-438-7353) now. What are you waiting for?!!!!
Select Insurance Group offers AFFORDABLE insurance coverage for barbering & cosmetology professionals, regardless of pre-existing health conditions- all starting at under 99$/mo and include benefits like disability and maternity. Do we have your attention? Select Insurance Group offers a proprietary product, exclusive for young professionals, with guaranteed acceptance. As long as you are working 30 hours a week, you're approved, guaranteed!
I need you to go to your phone , pick it up, and call one of our licensed insurance professionals at 855-GET-SELECT (855-438-7353) now. What are you waiting for?!!!!
Individual vs group health insurance- myths and facts
When it comes to healthcare, most people believe you can get a "better" or "cheaper" deal through your employer's insurance plan. This is not necessarily true and can be quite the opposite, in fact. "Group" health insurance offers "guaranteed coverage" but price is often more expensive. For groups under 25 members, the healthy people pay for the sick people. Most employees do not realize that they have better options and can opt out of their employer's health insurance plans, ultimately paying the higher price without researching options. In the "good'ole days," your employer might pay for a portion of your insurance, of which, would reduce your cost to little to non. Now, due to rising cost of healthcare and cost of doing business, many employers are cutting their expenses and hitting your paycheck where it counts, HEALTH INSURANCE! I am seeing people paying 800$+ a month for their families and carrying a 2500$ yearly deductible. I am also finding more and more people have to take a later retirement in order to wait until medicare kicks in. Unfortunately, as people come and go in the group, this leads to rate increases and ultimately, you have to raise your deductible to keep overhead low. Is this you? Are you paying for the sick people in your groups' insurance plan? Are you on COBRA and paying through the roof because you feel you do not have any other options? Many families are paying big bucks to get healthcare and you do not need to do so.
Select Insurance Group can help you! We offer affordable, guaranteed acceptance healthcare, regardless of pre-existing conditions. This is not a plan that comes with car rental incentives or movie ticket discounts, this is an actual insurance plan.Pretty simple...If you work 30 hours or more,coming off a group plan or COBRA conversion, you're approved! You owe it to yourself to explore this amazing opportunity for savings. Call us toll free at 855-GET-SELECT(438-7353) Ext 101 to speak with one of our licensed insurance professionals.
Select Insurance Group can help you! We offer affordable, guaranteed acceptance healthcare, regardless of pre-existing conditions. This is not a plan that comes with car rental incentives or movie ticket discounts, this is an actual insurance plan.Pretty simple...If you work 30 hours or more,coming off a group plan or COBRA conversion, you're approved! You owe it to yourself to explore this amazing opportunity for savings. Call us toll free at 855-GET-SELECT(438-7353) Ext 101 to speak with one of our licensed insurance professionals.
One-in-Four REALTORS® Lack Health Insurance - We have you covered!
While all small businesses have found it difficult to find affordable health insurance, REALTORS® have been even more challenged. Typically, REALTORS® are self-employed, independent contractors-the smallest of small businesses.
In most states, the self-employed are relegated to the state's individual insurance market, where applicants can be turned down for medical reasons and there are few limitations placed on the premiums that companies can charge.
As a result, today, twenty-eight percent of the 1.2 million members of the National Association of REALTORS® - more than one in four REALTORS® - have no health insurance coverage. REALTORS® have cited cost as the primary reason they have no health insurance.
Select Insurance Group offers affordable healthcare options and guaranteed acceptance for REALTORS®, individuals, and small business owners alike. As long as you work 30 hours a week, pre-existing conditions or not, YOU'RE APPROVED! Are you un-insured, paying too much, need better coverage? You owe it to yourself to contact us at 855-GET-SELECT(348-7353) Ext 101 to speak with one of our licensed insurance consultants.
In most states, the self-employed are relegated to the state's individual insurance market, where applicants can be turned down for medical reasons and there are few limitations placed on the premiums that companies can charge.
As a result, today, twenty-eight percent of the 1.2 million members of the National Association of REALTORS® - more than one in four REALTORS® - have no health insurance coverage. REALTORS® have cited cost as the primary reason they have no health insurance.
Select Insurance Group offers affordable healthcare options and guaranteed acceptance for REALTORS®, individuals, and small business owners alike. As long as you work 30 hours a week, pre-existing conditions or not, YOU'RE APPROVED! Are you un-insured, paying too much, need better coverage? You owe it to yourself to contact us at 855-GET-SELECT(348-7353) Ext 101 to speak with one of our licensed insurance consultants.
Bad Credit Auto Insurance
Certain credit risk factors might necessitate applying for bad credit auto insurance. At Select Insurance Group, we strive to provide you with a thorough understanding of how bad credit affects auto insurance premiums. Knowing your credit score in advance will help you to find suitable, affordable coverage.
Based upon credit scores, many insurance companies determine the probability that auto insurance claims will be filed. They then set rates accordingly and charge more for those with a low score. Bad credit auto insurance may be a necessary choice for certain individuals. However, other options are possible and affordable solutions exist.
Locating Bad Credit Auto Insurance
Select Insurance Group works closely with insurance carriers who will provide the lowest quotes possible. We offer rate comparisons with hundreds of carriers and cost cutting tips to assure that the best available coverage is obtained. We represent numerous insurance carriers who do not use credit scores when rating automobile insurance. Often, premiums for individuals with poor credit are quoted at lower rates than are available from carriers who use credit scores.
INSTANT QUOTES for bad credit auto insurance are guaranteed and are offered free of charge by clicking HERE. Our On-Line Automobile Quote form takes only a few minutes to complete. It covers personal data as well as driver and vehicle information. Quotes may be sent by e-mail, fax, postal mail, or telephone. Feel free to also visit our main website at www.selectinsuranceteam.com or call us for a free consultation at 1-855-GET-SELECT
Based upon credit scores, many insurance companies determine the probability that auto insurance claims will be filed. They then set rates accordingly and charge more for those with a low score. Bad credit auto insurance may be a necessary choice for certain individuals. However, other options are possible and affordable solutions exist.
Locating Bad Credit Auto Insurance
Select Insurance Group works closely with insurance carriers who will provide the lowest quotes possible. We offer rate comparisons with hundreds of carriers and cost cutting tips to assure that the best available coverage is obtained. We represent numerous insurance carriers who do not use credit scores when rating automobile insurance. Often, premiums for individuals with poor credit are quoted at lower rates than are available from carriers who use credit scores.
INSTANT QUOTES for bad credit auto insurance are guaranteed and are offered free of charge by clicking HERE. Our On-Line Automobile Quote form takes only a few minutes to complete. It covers personal data as well as driver and vehicle information. Quotes may be sent by e-mail, fax, postal mail, or telephone. Feel free to also visit our main website at www.selectinsuranceteam.com or call us for a free consultation at 1-855-GET-SELECT
Select Insurance Group -Your Preferred Missouri, High Risk & SR22 auto Insurance Specialists
You could waste a lot of time trying to find a standard insurance carrier willing to insure you if you've had any of the following problems:
•A drunk driving violation
•Multiple tickets
•Multiple accident claims
•Driving without insurance
•Your insurance carrier has dropped you
•You have a poor credit history
•Received a notice from the DMV requiring a SR-22 filing
Most insurers will turn you down if your credit rating is not great.
That is where we are different. We work with hundreds of insurance companies that do not use credit scores to judge you. In fact, our carriers often quote the same or better rates to customers with poor credit. With NO credit check necessary! CLICK HERE to get started
•A drunk driving violation
•Multiple tickets
•Multiple accident claims
•Driving without insurance
•Your insurance carrier has dropped you
•You have a poor credit history
•Received a notice from the DMV requiring a SR-22 filing
Most insurers will turn you down if your credit rating is not great.
That is where we are different. We work with hundreds of insurance companies that do not use credit scores to judge you. In fact, our carriers often quote the same or better rates to customers with poor credit. With NO credit check necessary! CLICK HERE to get started
Out of state SR22 filings - what you need to know
Need an SR-22 but unsure what to do? We're here to help. Select Insurance Group offers to handles in and out of state SR-22 filings for our customers, so if the court has ordered you to carry an SR-22, we can file it for you. Just a quick call to 1-855-GET-SELECT or CLICK HERE and we'll get you started.
What Is It?
Simply stated, an SR-22 is a document that shows proof of financial responsibility. You'll need an SR-22 if the police caught you driving without insurance, and you'll be required to carry the SR-22 for a specified amount of time (usually three years). Once you properly fulfill that time period, your SR-22 status expires.
SR-22s also are associated with the following:
DUI or DWI or any serious moving violation
At-fault accidents while driving without insurance
Repeat traffic offenses or getting too many tickets in a short time period
License suspension or revoked license
How Long Do I Need an SR-22?
Expect a long relationship with your SR-22 — most likely three years — similar to a probationary period after a criminal offense. You must carry continuous insurance during the specified period of time before SR-22 status is removed. If your policy lapses or is canceled, your auto insurance company is required to notify the state immediately and your license will be suspended again.
If you are insured with a company like Progressive Insurance, they'll cancel or terminate an SR-22 by filing a separate form with the state (an SR-26 in many states), generally 10 days before the SR-22's expiration.
Details and Specifics
We'll file the actual SR-22 form with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to show proof of insurance for you. Once we file your SR-22, your license suspension will be lifted and you can drive again legally.
SR-22s are state specific — what's required in one state may not apply in another state.
Requirement:
If you currently carry an SR-22 in one state but move to another state, you must fulfill the SR-22 filing period for your former state, even though you no longer reside there. Also, your insurance policy for your new state must have liability limits which meet the minimums required by law in your former (SR-22) state.
Example:
If you have an Alaska SR-22, where minimum liability limits are 50/100/25, and you move to Indiana, a state with 25/50/10 liability limits, you'll need to carry Alaska's minimum limits of 50/100/25 on your Indiana policy and continue your SR-22 filing with Alaska until the filing period ends.
Requirement:
Delaware, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania don't require SR-22s, but if you have an SR-22 and then move to one of these states, you must continue to meet the requirements of the SR-22 state where the offense was committed.
Example 1
:
If you have an SR-22 in Missouri and then move to Delaware, you'll need to continue filing an SR-22 with Missouri until you've met the three-year probationary period for Missouri. Even though you've got a Delaware policy, you'll be able to file an SR-22 for Missouri until the probationary period expires.
Example 2:
If you live in Delaware and move to Missouri, you won't need to file an SR-22 (barring any special circumstances) with Missouri, as the state of Missouri will not require you to carry an SR-22 filing based on your driving record in Delaware.
Requirement:
New York and North Carolina don't require SR-22 filings, and many insurance companies do not offer out-of-state SR-22 filings for policies in these states.
Example:
If you have an SR-22 in Missouri and move to New York, the state of New York will not require you to carry an SR-22 filing based upon your Missouri driving record. If the state of Missouri requires you to continue carrying an SR-22 when you move to New York, Your insurance company may not necissarily file one for you — you'll need to check which insurance companies will do this for you and check with the state's DMV for specific requirements.
Also of interest:
In some states, you must pay a fee to file SR-22s.
The overall message:
Though the SR-22 concept is similar from state to state, you always should check with your insurance company or agent to verify SR-22 specifics for your state. Please note that Select Insurance Group can handle SR-22s for you via the telephone only.
If you need an SR-22, please call us at 1-855-GET-SELECT or CLICK HERE to get insurance coverage online.
What Is It?
Simply stated, an SR-22 is a document that shows proof of financial responsibility. You'll need an SR-22 if the police caught you driving without insurance, and you'll be required to carry the SR-22 for a specified amount of time (usually three years). Once you properly fulfill that time period, your SR-22 status expires.
SR-22s also are associated with the following:
DUI or DWI or any serious moving violation
At-fault accidents while driving without insurance
Repeat traffic offenses or getting too many tickets in a short time period
License suspension or revoked license
How Long Do I Need an SR-22?
Expect a long relationship with your SR-22 — most likely three years — similar to a probationary period after a criminal offense. You must carry continuous insurance during the specified period of time before SR-22 status is removed. If your policy lapses or is canceled, your auto insurance company is required to notify the state immediately and your license will be suspended again.
If you are insured with a company like Progressive Insurance, they'll cancel or terminate an SR-22 by filing a separate form with the state (an SR-26 in many states), generally 10 days before the SR-22's expiration.
Details and Specifics
We'll file the actual SR-22 form with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to show proof of insurance for you. Once we file your SR-22, your license suspension will be lifted and you can drive again legally.
SR-22s are state specific — what's required in one state may not apply in another state.
Requirement:
If you currently carry an SR-22 in one state but move to another state, you must fulfill the SR-22 filing period for your former state, even though you no longer reside there. Also, your insurance policy for your new state must have liability limits which meet the minimums required by law in your former (SR-22) state.
Example:
If you have an Alaska SR-22, where minimum liability limits are 50/100/25, and you move to Indiana, a state with 25/50/10 liability limits, you'll need to carry Alaska's minimum limits of 50/100/25 on your Indiana policy and continue your SR-22 filing with Alaska until the filing period ends.
Requirement:
Delaware, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania don't require SR-22s, but if you have an SR-22 and then move to one of these states, you must continue to meet the requirements of the SR-22 state where the offense was committed.
Example 1
:
If you have an SR-22 in Missouri and then move to Delaware, you'll need to continue filing an SR-22 with Missouri until you've met the three-year probationary period for Missouri. Even though you've got a Delaware policy, you'll be able to file an SR-22 for Missouri until the probationary period expires.
Example 2:
If you live in Delaware and move to Missouri, you won't need to file an SR-22 (barring any special circumstances) with Missouri, as the state of Missouri will not require you to carry an SR-22 filing based on your driving record in Delaware.
Requirement:
New York and North Carolina don't require SR-22 filings, and many insurance companies do not offer out-of-state SR-22 filings for policies in these states.
Example:
If you have an SR-22 in Missouri and move to New York, the state of New York will not require you to carry an SR-22 filing based upon your Missouri driving record. If the state of Missouri requires you to continue carrying an SR-22 when you move to New York, Your insurance company may not necissarily file one for you — you'll need to check which insurance companies will do this for you and check with the state's DMV for specific requirements.
Also of interest:
In some states, you must pay a fee to file SR-22s.
The overall message:
Though the SR-22 concept is similar from state to state, you always should check with your insurance company or agent to verify SR-22 specifics for your state. Please note that Select Insurance Group can handle SR-22s for you via the telephone only.
If you need an SR-22, please call us at 1-855-GET-SELECT or CLICK HERE to get insurance coverage online.
3 Steps to Get your Driving Privilege Back
If your Missouri driving privilege was suspended, revoked, or denied and you would like to know how to get it back, follow the three steps below.
1. Determine the reason(s) why your driving privilege was suspended, revoked, or denied. More than likely you probably have a pretty good idea of "why" but this information is also included in the letter(s) you should have received from the Driver License Bureau when your driving privilege was taken away, or can be found on your current Missouri driver record. You may purchase a copy of your current driver record at any Missouri license office, or call (573) 526-2407. The basic fee for a Missouri driver record is $5.88 per driver record. Other fees may apply.
2.Note all reasons why your driving privilege was taken away. A reason should be listed on each letter, and all the reasons will be listed on your driver record under "Department Actions." If all the dates show you may now get your driving privilege back, use the chart to find out what forms to file, if any, and how much you must pay. If it is still too soon to get your driving privilege back, you may want to read the information about limited driving privileges.
3. If you have two or more reasons why your driving privilege was taken away, look on the chart under each reason to see what forms you need and the total amount to pay. NOTE: You will only need to file one proof of liability insurance form (i.e., SR-22 form; click here for a sample SR-22 form even if it is required under all reasons for which you lost your driving privilege.
For Example: If you lost your driving privilege because of points from speeding tickets, you must file an SR-22 insurance form and pay $20. However, if you ALSO lost your driving privilege due to refusing to take an alcohol or drug test, you must file proof you completed a Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program (SATOP), file an SR-22 insurance form, and pay an additional $45. Altogether, you must pay a total of $65, complete a SATOP, and file an SR-22 insurance form.
When it is time to reinstate your driving privilege, bring your money and forms to:
Driver License Bureau
Truman State Office Building
301 West High Street, Room 470
Jefferson City, Missouri
Telephone: (573) 526-2407
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30-5:00 (except state office closings)
OR mail your money and forms to:
Driver License Bureau
P.O. Box 200
Jefferson City, Missouri 65105-0200
OR pay by telephone using the following credit cards:
• Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express
•Telephone Number: (573) 526-2407
TO GET INSTANT SR22 AUTO INSURANCE COVERAGE, CLICK HERE!
1. Determine the reason(s) why your driving privilege was suspended, revoked, or denied. More than likely you probably have a pretty good idea of "why" but this information is also included in the letter(s) you should have received from the Driver License Bureau when your driving privilege was taken away, or can be found on your current Missouri driver record. You may purchase a copy of your current driver record at any Missouri license office, or call (573) 526-2407. The basic fee for a Missouri driver record is $5.88 per driver record. Other fees may apply.
2.Note all reasons why your driving privilege was taken away. A reason should be listed on each letter, and all the reasons will be listed on your driver record under "Department Actions." If all the dates show you may now get your driving privilege back, use the chart to find out what forms to file, if any, and how much you must pay. If it is still too soon to get your driving privilege back, you may want to read the information about limited driving privileges.
3. If you have two or more reasons why your driving privilege was taken away, look on the chart under each reason to see what forms you need and the total amount to pay. NOTE: You will only need to file one proof of liability insurance form (i.e., SR-22 form; click here for a sample SR-22 form even if it is required under all reasons for which you lost your driving privilege.
For Example: If you lost your driving privilege because of points from speeding tickets, you must file an SR-22 insurance form and pay $20. However, if you ALSO lost your driving privilege due to refusing to take an alcohol or drug test, you must file proof you completed a Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program (SATOP), file an SR-22 insurance form, and pay an additional $45. Altogether, you must pay a total of $65, complete a SATOP, and file an SR-22 insurance form.
When it is time to reinstate your driving privilege, bring your money and forms to:
Driver License Bureau
Truman State Office Building
301 West High Street, Room 470
Jefferson City, Missouri
Telephone: (573) 526-2407
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30-5:00 (except state office closings)
OR mail your money and forms to:
Driver License Bureau
P.O. Box 200
Jefferson City, Missouri 65105-0200
OR pay by telephone using the following credit cards:
• Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express
•Telephone Number: (573) 526-2407
TO GET INSTANT SR22 AUTO INSURANCE COVERAGE, CLICK HERE!
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