What is a health insurance deductible, and how does it work?

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Have you ever gone to the doctor and gave them your insurance information? In many cases, you gave them your health insurance card and didn’t have to pay a dime while you were in the office. However, out of nowhere, weeks later, you received a letter stating you owe money to your doctor’s office for services rendered while you were in their office.

Have you ever wondered why you are required to pay anything when you pay a premium for health insurance? At Fortress Insurance Agency in Overland Park, KS, we understand that it can be a bit confusing, so we are here to help you understand your health insurance policy.

What is a health insurance deductible?

You may have received a bill from your doctor’s office weeks after your visit because your medical provider sent your information and the details of your visit to your insurance company to request payment for their services. However, it is possible that you have not met your health insurance deductible yet.

Your health insurance deductible is the amount you must pay out of pocket for medical expenses before your policy will pay out for any of your medical claims. For example, you have a health insurance policy on yourself, and the deductible is $2000. Your insurance company will not pay for claims until you have been billed the first $2000 of medical expenses from doctor visits or hospital stays. In some cases, your prescription costs are included in that deductible amount.

Once you have met your deductible, your insurance will pay a co-insurance amount for your visits for the remainder of the policy period (usually until the end of the year). That co-insurance amount could be 80% of your expenses, up to 100%.

For more information about Health Insurance

To learn more about health insurance, deductibles, co-insurance, and other details, call Fortress Insurance Agency in Overland Park, KS, at (402) 201-6931 today.

Buying a New Boat or Watercraft? Here’s What to Know About Insurance

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It can be exciting to purchase a new boat or watercraft. Whether you’re upgrading, choosing something different, or have never had one before, you want to make sure you protect it properly. That’s where a quality boat/watercraft insurance policy comes in. If you’re in the Overland Park KS area, Fortress Insurance Agency can help you find the right coverage for your needs. Here’s what to consider when you’re deciding on a new insurance policy.

First, make sure you’re working with a dedicated agent who can help you get the right type and level of coverage. You want to protect your boat or other watercraft the best way you can, and that starts with having all the information you need to make a knowledgeable choice. When you work with one of our agents you’ll get your questions answered and have access to quotes from multiple insurers. That helps you feel confident that you have the right policy for your specific needs.

Second, don’t hesitate to reach out to your agent anytime something changes. Whether it has been a while since you bought your new watercraft or you had a change in circumstances that might affect your boat, it’s important to know who to talk to. Your coverage should be right for your situation and lifestyle, so it protects you in all the ways you use and store your boat or watercraft. We want you to feel fully confident in your policy for as long as you have it.

Contact us today at Fortress Insurance Agency if you’re in the Overland Park KS area and looking for boat/watercraft insurance. We’re happy to help you find the coverage you need so you can fully enjoy your new boat or watercraft to the fullest, and with plenty of peace of mind.

Can I Purchase Life Insurance for a Terminally Ill Loved One?

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The expenses incurred upon a person’s passing can be overwhelming and typically beyond the average family’s means without experiencing financial strain. This is why many opt for life insurance. It can cover the cost of the funeral and burial (or cremation), with leftover funds to settle debts, maintain livelihood, etc. Most individuals secure life insurance well in advance of their passing, but what if a person is terminally ill and then attempts to purchase life insurance?

Available with Limitations

It is possible to purchase life insurance for a terminally ill loved one, but there are limitations. Key factors to consider include:

  • Lower Coverage Amounts
  • Higher premiums
  • Applicable Waiting Periods
  • Limited policy availability

Finding a Life Insurance Provider

Finding the desired life insurance policy for a terminally ill loved one may prove challenging, but it is still feasible. Before settling on a specific policy, conduct thorough research. Consider policies like Guaranteed Payout life and group life insurance. Do not hesitate to ask questions when researching various companies and the policies they offer.

If you are an Overland Park, KS resident, consider Fortress Insurance Agency. We pride ourselves on stellar customer service and coverage options. Providing coverage for the Overland Park, KS area, and beyond, we are pleased to welcome new members. Feel free to give us a call. We can answer all your life insurance-related questions and more.

Driving Mistakes That Can Affect Your Insurance

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We all want the best deals on our products and services, but clipping a coupon isn’t the only way to get the best deal. A service like auto insurance is affected more by behavior than bargain hunting. Here at Fortress Insurance Agency, serving Overland Park, KS, and the surrounding areas, we are dedicated to helping you get the most out of your auto insurance coverage, and that means avoiding these driving mistakes that can cost you. 

Speeding

Speeding will impact your auto insurance quicker than just about anything else. If you want to keep your auto insurance premiums at a reasonable rate, you’ll always want to ensure you’re observing the speed limit. If you start thinking in terms of speeding in the same way you think of turning off lights that are unnecessary in your home, you quickly change your mindset and start new habits and behaviors that will save you money. 

Reckless Driving 

Reckless driving is driving that is considered to be inattentive and dangerous. This can include using cell phones while driving, eating while driving, or doing anything other than driving. It also includes taking risks while driving. The more reckless you are, the more likely you are to have an accident. Each time you have an accident, your insurance premiums will be affected. Depending on the magnitude of the accident, those impacts could be high.

If you’d like to learn more about auto insurance and how you can save money, please contact us at Fortress Insurance Agency serving Overland Park, KS, and the surrounding areas. We’ll be happy to answer your questions today.

Motorcycle Insurance: Like a Helmet for Your Motorcycle

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Whether you’re a casual rider or a motorcycle enthusiast, there’s no denying the unique sense of freedom and thrill that comes with riding a motorcycle. Some riders love the raw power of their bikes, while others cherish the feel of the wind in their face and the joy of being in the open air. Safety is paramount to ensure you enjoy your ride regardless of your reason for riding. That’s why so many people from the Overland Park, KS area rely on the professional and friendly team at the Fortress Insurance Agency for all their motorcycle insurance needs.

Insurance for You and Your Bike

From motorcycle repairs to liability damage coverage and help for medical bills resulting from an accident, motorcycle insurance can provide protection for you and your bike. If you ever need protection, your insurance will be there for you. It can also help you and your bike get back on the open road sooner. While you might hope never to need it, if you do, it’s the best way to safeguard you and your bike. Think of motorcycle insurance as a helmet for your motorcycle.

Motorcycle Insurance in Overland Park

If you own a motorcycle and have questions or need motorcycle insurance in or around the Overland Park, KS area, our experienced and friendly team at Fortress Insurance Agency can assist. The right insurance can make a difference for your ride and the protection you and your bike need and deserve. Contact us at Fortress Insurance Agency today to get the coverage and motorcycle insurance solutions you need.

Cyber Commercial Insurance Claims: Protecting Your Business from Digital Threats

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In today’s digital age, businesses in Overland Park, KS face increasing cyber threats, making commercial cyber insurance an essential safeguard. Understanding how to file a cyber insurance claim is crucial to protecting your business from hackers and digital threats.

Understanding Your Coverage

Commercial policies covering the cyber world handle the expenses related to data breaches, including notification costs, legal fees, and public relations efforts. They may also compensate for losses from business interruptions, cyber extortion, and restoring compromised data.

Documenting the Incident

It is important to record details of how and when the breach occurred, what type of data was affected, and what steps were taken to control the damage. This documentation should comprise of incident reports, communication logs, and any proof of the breach. Such detailed records will support your claim and assist the insurer in assessing the extent of the incident.

Reporting the Claim Promptly

Ensure to report the breach to your insurance company as soon as possible. Many policies require prompt notification to ensure coverage. Provide all necessary documentation and information to aid the claims process. Rapid reporting can help reduce further damage and resolve your claim.

Mitigating Further Damage

During your claim process, urgently strive to prevent additional damage. Actions could include isolating affected systems, enhancing security measures, and thoroughly investigating the cause of the breach. This informs the insurance company that you highly value your business and privacy.

Communicating with Your Insurer

Communication with the insurance agent is fundamentally essential throughout the process. Regularly update your insurer on any developments and respond quickly to requests for additional information.

Fortress Insurance Agency Helps Guide You

Fortress Insurance Agency is here to assist and show you how commercial insurance can save your business in the long run. Our team provides coverage for the Overland Park, KS region. Get in touch with us today.

Securing Your Mobile Retreat: A Guide to Motorhome Insurance in Overland Park, KS

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When you have a motorhome in Overland Park, KS, you can travel any time. Whether you have a Class A, Class B, or another type of motorhome, you can bring your accommodation to your destination.

It’s a significant investment, so your mobile retreat should have motorhome insurance. The good news is that Fortress Insurance Agency can guide you through the right coverage for you.

The Coverage is Critical

Having a motorhome can be exciting, but you also want to know that it’s adequately protected on all of your adventures. As such, you’ll want to ensure it has the necessary coverage.

Whether it gets broken into, damaged on the road, or even stolen from a campground, you want to know that you can file a claim with the insurance company.

Working with an agent will allow you to look at such coverage options as:

  • Gap insurance
  • Liability coverage
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Collision coverage

Remember, too, that the type of motorhome you have will help determine what insurance may be required. If your motorhome has its own engine, it will be a vehicle—and therefore, the basic auto insurance minimums for Kansas will also need to be met.

Consider the Cost

Whether you buy a brand-new or used motorhome, it’s an investment. This means you have to consider paying a premium to protect your mobile retreat against any eventuality.

Explore quotes from different companies while also looking at deductibles. This way, you’ll know what the out-of-pocket expenses are if you do have to file a claim.

Ready to look at motorhome insurance? When you’re in the area of Overland Park, KS, you can call us at Fortress Insurance Agency. One of our friendly and knowledgeable agents can answer questions and get you quotes for an affordable policy.

Insurance Coverage to Protect Your Residence While It Is Actively Being Renovated

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Update your home insurance policy before you begin a renovation project. The coverage will increase the liability, loss, and damage protection your residence currently has.

Renovations and Increased Risks

You may need to file an insurance claim during an active renovation. Since one or more rooms in your home will be disrupted during the renovation, you increase your risk of enduring an injury or dealing with damage.

Your Analysis

Inspect the area where the renovation will be done. Then, assess your project plans. These steps will indicate whether purchasing increased home protection coverage is a good idea.

If you are not familiar with the risk factors to look for, have your home professionally inspected. The results will give you a better understanding of the risks involved.

If the renovation project is going to be conducted on an upper level in your home, for instance, you may be concerned about accidental slips and falls. If so, you may decide to purchase insurance coverage that will provide you with additional liability coverage.

Loose Materials

Seek insurance coverage for the loose materials that will be used during the renovation project. Research insurance products that protect tools, structural products, and decorative materials.

If you are investing in new furnishings or other household goods, plan on insuring these possessions.

Contact Fortress Insurance Agency

Contact an agent who represents the Fortress Insurance Agency. One of our agents who serves the Overland Park, KS region will inform you about some popular insurance products. The insurance coverage that you buy will provide protection while the home renovations are underway.

Buying a Supplementary Health Policy

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In today’s age, whether your employer offers health insurance or you have a policy through your educational institution, opting for a second health insurance policy can be beneficial. In this blog, we at Fortress Insurance Agency discuss why you should consider this.

Covering Unmet Healthcare Needs

Many employers in Overland Park, KS, offer their employees health insurance. However, these policies may not encompass all healthcare necessities. Individuals might need a secondary policy if their existing coverage does not support certain essential healthcare procedures.

Student healthcare plans often only cater to basic healthcare requirements, with campus healthcare being the primary treatment resource. These centers may employ competent doctors but could lack other critical facilities like advanced testing or even a hospital. A secondary health policy can provide assurance for a full year, addressing the issue of academic-year-only health coverage.

Lacking Wellness Programs in Your Primary Health Policy

Health insurance purchased through the U.S. Healthcare Marketplace often includes a wellness program. However, several policies may provide limited benefits. Procuring a secondary policy can offer the wellness program coverage you desire. This might include sessions with nutritionists, tailor-made programs for diabetes or high blood pressure management, and even yoga classes.

Adding to Medicare Coverage

Retirees might also find additional health coverage beneficial. The government-issued standard Medicare plan mainly covers hospital stays and in-hospital medical tests. An individual seeking coverage for doctor visits requires Plan B coverage, while prescription coverage needs Plan D. Instead of buying a government-issued Medicare plan, purchasing a private medical care policy can offer a comprehensive solution.

Engage with Fortress Insurance Agency

At Fortress Insurance Agency, we strive to provide healthcare insurance that meets a variety of needs. We’re here to assist the residents of Overland Park, KS, in securing the health coverage they need to stay safely insured. Contact us today.

What Types of Boats Have to Be Covered By Boat Insurance?

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Boat ownership brings excitement and adventure but comes with responsibilities, including protecting your investment with the right insurance coverage. At Fortress Insurance Agency, serving the greater Overland Park, KS area, we’re here to help you understand which types of boats require insurance coverage.

Motorized Boats

Motorized boats, including powerboats, motor yachts, and personal watercraft such as jet skis and wave runners, are typically required to be covered by boat insurance. Whether cruising on a lake, river, or ocean, insurance helps protect you, your passengers, and your vessel from unexpected accidents, damage, or liability claims.

Sailboats

Sailboats, whether small recreational vessels or larger sailing yachts, should also be covered by boat insurance. Even if a motor does not power your sailboat, it’s still susceptible to risks such as collisions, storms, theft, and liability claims. Sailboat insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind while you navigate the open waters.

Fishing Boats

Fishing boats, including bass boats, center consoles, and offshore fishing vessels, should be insured to safeguard against potential risks on the water. Whether you’re casting lines in freshwater lakes or deep-sea fishing in the ocean, fishing boat insurance offers coverage for property damage, equipment theft, and liability concerns.

Personal Watercraft (PWC)

Personal watercraft, such as jet skis, Sea-Doos, and WaveRunners, are popular recreational vehicles that require specialized insurance coverage. PWC insurance protects you and your watercraft from accidents, injuries, and property damage while you enjoy thrilling rides on the water.

At Fortress Insurance Agency, we understand the unique insurance needs of boat owners in the greater Overland Park, KS area. Our experienced agents will work closely with you to assess your boating activities and coverage requirements. Call us to get started.