Posted under Uncategorized.

renters

If you are a renter, then you need to read this article. Typically, the owner of the building is responsible for any loss to the building. The building owner or landlord is not responsible for your personal belongings. PlatinumOne Insurance Agency can also provide you with the option of quoting your renters and auto.

Kansas Renters insurance is a homeowner’s policy for non-homeowners. It covers loss of your personal property, such as clothes, furniture, computers etc. It covers losses due to theft, fire, wind and many other events that might cause damage to your personal property. A renter’s policy can also pick up coverage for your temporary living expenses while repairs are made if your rented home is damaged. If you think about it, the cost to replace your clothing, furniture, stereo, pots and pans, linens, sporting goods and computer could be a lot of money.

You can also design the renter’s policy to provide liability coverage, should you cause injury to a third party. In some cases landlords require such coverage. PlatinumOne Insurance Agency has access to many different insurers who offer this coverage. The quoting process takes very little time.

A renter’s policy can go a long way toward protecting you financially if you suffer misfortune. Best of all, you don’t have to own your home to qualify for protection. Kansas Renters insurance is very affordable, and can be designed to meet your individual needs.

Posted under Uncategorized.

Ah, travel is bliss; or we’d like to think so!   We want our vacations to be perfect, and ticket mishaps, delays, and schedule changes are all problems none of us like to have happen. We want you to have a great vacation and return home safe. Whether you are planning a trip across the state, or across the world, we have some tips to keep you safe:

insurance
  • Create an itinerary and give it to a family member or close friend.
  • Put all emergency numbers in everyone’s cell phone.
  • Don’t carry a lot of cash.
  • Advise your credit card companies of your travel. They will see purchases outside your normal area and may place a hold on the cards.
  • To avoid problems when passing through security, keep medicines in their original, labeled containers.
  • Put your name, address, and telephone numbers outside, and inside, of each piece of luggage.
  • You don’t need all your credit cards and ID; leave those you will not be using at home.
  • Never wear anything that projects affluence; no gold chains, expensive watches, rings, luggage, or other paraphernalia.  It is best to leave your expensive jewelry at home.
  • Do not wear name tags in public.
  • At the hotel discuss basic emergency procedures with your children, such as what to do in case of a fire.
  • Park only in well-lit and well-traveled areas.
  • Let your neighbors know your plans.
  • If your plans include travel out of the country, check your health insurance, as there may be some limitations. Call the PlatinumOne Insurance for a review.
  • Purchase timers for lights in your home and place them in two or three rooms.

Enjoy your vacation and be safe!

Posted under Auto Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Cyber Liability.

There are many insurance myths floating around, and most of them have been around for years. We want to respond to these myths with clear information, so that you can make educated decisions about your insurance purchases.

Top Insurance Myths

“Having two agents is better because they keep each other competitive.”

Having two agents duplicates effort and can create coverage gaps and/or duplications. For example, there is certain coverage that can be included under a liability policy as well as under an auto policy. If you have two agents, who coordinates coverage? One agent is better able to manage your entire insurance program.

“I am covered under workers’ compensation; therefore I do not need medical insurance.”

Workers’ compensation only covers on the job injuries. It does not cover off duty accidents, illness or other things like cancer.

“Umbrella insurance is for only large firms.”

Every business should consider an umbrella policy. Claims can come from employees, clients and other third parties. Defense costs range from $250 to $750 per hour on more complicated claims.

“My claim was an act of God; therefore my deductible does not apply.”

All losses are subject to your policy terms including the stated deductible.

“Earthquakes are covered under my commercial insurance.”

Earthquakes and floods are specifically excluded under commercial insurance unless you have added it.

“I can’t control my commercial insurance costs.”

There are a number of actions you can take to control your insurance costs:

  • Increase your deductible
  • Follow all loss control recommendations
  • Only report larger claims
  • Develop a safety program

We believe our greatest asset is the relationships we build with our clients and we are dedicated to being the right choice for all of your insurance and financial needs. We take pride in our ability to tailor a comprehensive insurance package that maximizes your insurance protection while minimizing money out of your pocket.

We are locally owned and operated out of Overland Park, Kansas and are strongly represented in all areas of the Kansas City metropolitan area including not only Kansas City, but also Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa & Shawnee.  We primarily write business in Johnson and Wyandotte Counties in Kansas but are licensed in the entire State.

Posted under Uncategorized.

personal insurance

For many people, insurance can be difficult to understand.  Most people know that insurance is needed, but often they do not fully understand what they are buying or if they are properly covered.  That is why it is important to have an insurance agent on your side.  A good agent will help you determine what your insurance needs are, educate you about your options, and help you understand the specifics of the insurance you are buying.

Here are five things that you need to know as you consider your insurance options.

  1. You cannot add coverage for a claim that has already occurred.  For example, if there is flooding in your area, you cannot buy flood insurance during an event.
  • Coverage gaps can be costly. Having a gap or lapse in coverage can be costly.  Always pay your premiums on time, or ask for a grace period from your insurer.  You will end up paying more if you have lapses in your policy.
  • Insurance is not intended to cover everything. Insurance is designed to provide financial recovery after an accident or unforeseen loss. Every policy has exclusions which are important to understand. Remember, insurance is not intended to cover regular maintenance.
  • An agent can be a valuable resource. A licensed agent can help you find the best possible combination of coverage, price, and service that fits your individual needs.  A good agent will be willing to answer any questions you may have and be there for you when a claim occurs.
  • Do not skimp on liability insurance.  The cost of litigation these days underscores the need for everyone to have an adequate amount of liability insurance.  The greater your assets are, the greater your need is to have your assets covered.  To protect yourself and your family financially, buy enough liability insurance on your auto and home insurance policies to cover above your net worth.  We can help you determine how much coverage your individual needs require.

Do you need a homeowner’s insurance quote?  Talk to us today about keeping your home and family protected. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Brad Runnebaum and Jeff Hartman established PlatinumOne Insurance Agency in 2008. We are a full service insurance agency representing individuals, families and businesses in the Kansas City area. We are licensed professionals who are not limited to placing your insurance with just one carrier. We have the flexibility to choose the insurance company that best serves your individual needs. Having choices is our advantage and it benefits our customers.

Posted under Cyber Liability, Homeowner’s Insurance, Life Insurance.

home insurance

We have all read fake news stories.  We especially liked the one about the 200-pound cat that went on a diet!  There are also many fake news stories out there about insurance.  Some of these news articles claim that it is supposedly easier and better to buy personal insurance online.  These articles go so far as to claim you can get better coverage if you do it yourself.  Unfortunately, many of these articles are part of the “fake news” trend and many unsuspecting consumers have been hurt by decisions they have made because of them.  We do not want anyone to make a poor decision because of fake insurance news. 

Here are the facts; these are not fake news stories

  • When you buy insurance online you are taking the risk that you might not be getting the coverage you and family need.  Licensed professional insurance agents go through a long education process to obtain a license and keep that license.  Professional agents must take continuing education to keep up on all the changes in coverage, the law, and company offerings.  Therefore, a professional licensed agent has the knowledge and experience to find the best coverage and value for your individual needs.
  • Many insurance advertisements describe certain types of coverage like vehicle replacement cost, vanishing deductibles and more.  However, what they do not tell you is that these kinds of coverage’s cost more and are not offered to everyone.
  • Buying the state minimum auto liability is never a good idea. Rarely does the state minimum cover the expenses of a totaled vehicle and medical bills from injured parties.
  • Another fake news story is that only people who live in a flood zone need flood insurance.  According to the Federal Government, over 35% of all flood damage occurs to homes outside the flood zone.
  •  You do not have to be a millionaire to lose your home and retirement in a liability loss.

Personal umbrella insurance can protect your family’s assets.  For very little cost, you can have the protection of a personal umbrella policy.  

Do you need a homeowner’s insurance quote?  Talk to us today about keeping your home and family protected. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Brad Runnebaum and Jeff Hartman established PlatinumOne Insurance Agency in 2008. We are a full service insurance agency representing individuals, families and businesses in the Kansas City area. We are licensed professionals who are not limited to placing your insurance with just one carrier. We have the flexibility to choose the insurance company that best serves your individual needs. Having choices is our advantage and it benefits our customers.

Posted under Commercial Insurance, Cyber Liability, News and Announcements, Safety.

A Business Insurance Update

Your business insurance can respond to many kinds of risks and losses.  Protecting your business from loss can mean the difference between having a great year, and having to close your doors.  According to the Insurance Information Institute, 30% of businesses that have a fire never re-open.  Therefore, it pays to have the right business insurance and to manage your tops risks.  However, do you know the most common risks faced by most businesses?

Business Risks

Cyber breach – Your small business has a greater chance of having a data breach than it does of having a fire.  Make sure you have a cyber liability insurance policy.  Don’t save passwords on your computer, use the latest security software, train your employees on cyber security, and never use an open network.

Customer trip and fall – Make sure you keep your business entry clean and clear of clutter.

Flood – Your business insurance excludes flood damage.  If you are close to water, make sure you consider flood insurance.

Fire – Every business is subject to fire. Install automatic alarms to ensure proper notification, disconnect equipment when not in use, and never overload sockets with plugs.

Theft – Develop a system for end of day closure procedures. Keep a light on at night.  Burglars are less inclined to break in if they think someone is there.

Innovative Insurance Services LLC understands the value of good employees. We know that your day-to-day operations depend on their hard work, expertise, and dedication, and if you supply them with quality benefits and plans, they can work with the peace of mind assurance that they are properly protected. Innovative Insurance Services LLC provides insurance to businesses in Shakopee, Savage, Prior Lake, Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Burnsville, and surrounding areas.

 

Posted under Commercial Insurance, Workers Compensation.

While these are responses from large corporations, we take away many applications for medium and small businesses. Here are some of the risk issues for 2021. According to a recent AMEX survey, 92% of businesses pivoted last year, and 76% of small businesses believe they will need to pivot again in 2021. The 2021 pivot may have a different nature, however. 2020 pivots were mainly adjustments to shock changes in customer demands due to safety measures.

workers on ladder
  1. Cyber Liability– Cyber liability and data theft is one of the hottest topics for businesses, risk managers, and insurance companies.
  2. Employee Safety– Making sure your business follows all COIVD compliance protocols will be a top priority.
  3. Remote workers– In 2021, remote working and safety measures should become more routine. How businesses recruit, onboard, train, and terminate employees has changed, some say permanently. How businesses are dealing with employee burnout, talent management, and allocating will need to be addressed.
  4. IT security– Remote workers will require new IT protocols.
  5. Slow economic recovery– Businesses will need to do planning to manage the recovery in 2021.
  6. Government mandates and regulations – There continues to be increased oversight from the government in healthcare and financial reporting that creates new risk and liability for businesses.
  7. Political and Civil Issues – As seen in 2020, political and civil issues have a direct impact on many small businesses. Having the right kind of business insurance is important to protect your business in the event of civil riots.
  8. Business Interruption – If your business has a loss and you are unable to operate for a period of time, you will need financial resources in order to get back in operation. You may even need to continue payroll for a period of time. Business interruption insurance can provide these resources.
  9. Class actions and COVID-19 cases- This year has also seen the first class-action lawsuits directly related to COVID-19. Examples include lawsuits against cruise lines that suffered coronavirus outbreaks, as well as suits regarding the business impact of COVID-19 on companies’ financial performance or operations and misrepresentations about COVID-19-related therapies.

Whether your business is large or small, we have the business insurance products to meet your needs. Every business and industry is unique. As business owners ourselves, we understand the special protection businesses need to prosper.

We are the smart way to buy insurance. As a leading Kansas City Independent Agency, we offer a broad selection of insurance policies, companies and financial services. We are licensed in Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska and are not limited to placing your insurance with just one carrier. By representing multiple carriers such as Travelers, Allied, Kemper, Encompass and Progressive, we have the flexibility to choose the insurance company that can best serve your individual needs. Having choices is our advantage… and it benefits you the customer.

Sources: Forbes, Insurance business

Posted under Uncategorized.

city

The latest news from the Small Business Administration is that only 60% of new businesses survive at least 2 years. Of that 60%, only 44% survive another two years. It is a fact that more small businesses fail then succeed. The two main reasons for failure are lack of planning and funding. While we can’t help with the funding part, we can offer some ideas about new business planning.

We found at least five things entrepreneurs should consider as part of their development process. We understand there are more, but this is a good start.

  1. Understand the risks and legal issues – It is important to any new start up to understand all the legal and regulatory statutes and laws surrounding their business. Hire a good attorney to help you; it will be worth the expense. Hire a professional insurance agent to help you understand what your risks are, how to manage the risks, and how to protect yourself from the risks.
  • Start with a good name – Your name needs to tell the story of what your firm does. For example, if you are starting a bakery, the name “Smith Brothers” fails to tell the public what you do. Also, depending on your market, it is probably not a good idea to use a foreign language as part of your name. Keep your name simple but innovative.
  • Develop a Web strategy- It doesn’t matter what business you are in, you must develop a web presence. This would include a web page, social media (Facebook & LinkedIn) and a blog. For some industries, Twitter and Pinterest are important as well.
  • Seek out mentors and advisors- Whether your mentor provides pointers on business strategy, helps you bolster your networking efforts, or acts as a confidant, it is good to have someone on your team. Hire a competent attorney, insurance agent, accountant and payroll HR/firm

Get The Right Commercial Insurance Coverage

There are insurance companies which have policies that combine protection for all major property and liability risks into one package. You can also opt for separate coverage. Such a policy is called a Business Owners Policy (BOP). Larger companies tend to purchase a commercial package policy.

Good luck and call us with any questions so we can help you achieve your goals! With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Brad Runnebaum and Jeff Hartman established PlatinumOne Insurance Agency in 2008. We have established relationships with some of the top carriers in the industry including Travelers, Allied, Kemper, Encompass, Progressive and many others.

Posted under Auto Insurance, Homeowner’s Insurance, Life Insurance, News and Announcements, Personal Insurance.

insurance

When was the last time you reviewed your insurance coverage? The start of a New Year is a great time to review your personal insurance. Most of us know that major life events can make it necessary to update our insurance coverage. But did you know that even subtle changes can have an impact on your financial needs and plans?  Call our office today, and we can help you find the right combination of coverage and price.

Insurance “To Do” List

General or Personal Items

  • Review my insurance to make sure I have the right coverage
  • Take the time to read my insurance policies
  • Does my agent have all my correct information, including new phone number, address, and newly purchased property?
  • Make sure I have identity theft insurance
  • Do I have enough life insurance?
  • Do I need life insurance for my spouse?

Auto Insurance

  • Check my credit score
  • Consider increasing my auto deductibles on my older vehicles

Home

  • Get a quote for earthquake or flood insurance
  • Combine my auto and home insurance to save money
  • Complete a home inventory to ensure my property values are correct
  • Consider purchasing or increasing my umbrella coverage

Safety

  • Consider an alarm system
  • Clean my gutters
  • Have I replaced all the batteries in my smoke detectors?

Have I experienced any of these changes?

  • Bought  a new car or sold a car
  • Changed your marital status
  • Bought a boat, RV or ATV
  • Change of address
  • Started a home business
  • Remote working in 2021
  • Welcomed a new baby into the family
  • Received a major inheritance
  • Have a new teen driver in the family
  • New purchases of guns, jewelry or art
  • Purchased second home

Please call our office today if you need to make any changes in your insurance program. We can provide valuable information regarding each of these concerns so that you can make the right decision for you and your family.  Our team will never push you into a hasty decision.  That is because we will only offer you an insurance solution after we fully understand your needs.

Connect with us and let us show you how we do it—and help you get a good night’s sleep. We are always searching for ways to help our clients save money on their auto insurance. Saving money on auto insurance is a relatively quick way to lower the cost of operating your car, and can be accomplished with a quick phone call to PlatinumOne Insurance. There are many ways to lower your insurance costs without eliminating needed coverage. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Posted under Life Insurance, News and Announcements.

PlatinumOne Insurance Agency understands that a conversation about life insurance is not always an easy one, but should be part of your long term planning. There are many good reasons to consider purchasing life insurance. Life insurance gives your loved ones the resources to pay off debt, continue living the same standard of living, and provides added financial security.  Also remember, the tax-free proceeds from life insurance will provide your loved ones with a tangible expression of your concern and thoughtfulness.

There are different kinds of life policies, but we usually recommend term life.  Life insurance works just like other insurance policies. You pay your premium and sign a policy that binds you and your insurance carrier in an agreement where upon your death, policy benefits will be distributed to your beneficiaries. Here is a quick overview of a few of the types of life insurance policies:

Term life insurance is very cost effective.  The price is based on how much coverage you need, current age, and length of time you would like the coverage. You pay as you go and can drop the policy at any time. Usually term insurance is purchased in 5, 10, or 15 year terms, but again you don’t have to renew. It is cost effective to purchase a longer policy term, as it locks in the premium. 

Whole life policies are more expensive but have some advantages.  The premiums never change, and they can gain cash value based on how the issuing insurance company does financially, while having a death benefit if you pass away.

Universal life policies have all the benefit of whole life polices, but the difference is the performance of your cash. Universal life policies usually generate the current interest rate, or a minimum guaranteed interest rate. Also, the premiums are flexible.

How Much Life Insurance Should I Buy?

The amount of life insurance you buy will depend on your individual circumstances, but generally 8-10 times your annual earnings is a good starting point. For example, if you earn $50,000 annually, we assume that your standard of living is in that range. In order for your loved ones to continue in that standard, you would need an investment that generates around $50,000 in yearly interest income. $500,000 in life insurance could return $40,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on the market and economic conditions.

It is important the insurance you purchase is suitable for your particular needs. PlatinumOne Insurance Agency can shop all the best companies and provide you with many different life insurance options.