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June is Online Safety Awareness Month - good timing since we are approaching peak vacation season, it's worth setting aside a few minutes to take stock of your mobile computing safety. As you travel, every place from coffee shops to hotels will compete for your business by touting the availability of free WiFi and high-speed internet access - a benefit that is great anywhere, but that is particularly valuable when you leave the country. But when using those networks, have you ever stopped to think about how secure those connections are? And even if you are on a secure network -- one that requires a log in -- you may still be exposed to others who are using that same network. Could that teen sitting near you be practicing hacking skills? Could the surfer at the corner table be looking to steal your identity? Others on the same network can access readily available tools to intercept unencrypted data that is passing over networks. Your session could even be hijacked. On a public network, you must use precautions when transmitting any information that is personal, financial, or confidential in nature.

Even people who take every precaution on home and work computers can be fairly cavalier when it comes to mobile devices - it's easy to forget that our phones and tablets are really computers and subject to the same security risks. Lifehacker has a good article on how to stay safe on public wi-fi networks - explaining how to turn off Sharing and enable your firewall on various devices, and how to automate your public WiFi security settings. It also suggests using SSL whenever possible and explains what this means and how to do it. Another suggestion is to set up a Virtual Private Network (VPN). ArsTechnica talks more about VPNs and other security issues at public WiFi hotspot.

Here are more tips from experts:

Tips for Using Public Wi-Fi Networks - from On Guard Online

Four safety tips for using Wi-Fi from Microsoft

Security Using High-Speed Internet at Hotels

Identity Protection Tips for the Summer Traveler

It's that time of year again ... it's so predictable you could almost set your watch by it: Tax season email scams. Thieves are pretty smart and can create a convincing-looking phony email - don't fall for their traps. Clicking on a phony or "phish" mail could result in a computer virus, lost money, or a stolen identity. And guess what? It's not just computer newbies who fall for these scams: smart, experienced people can be tricked too.

First rule of thumb, right from the IRS:

The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email to request personal or financial information. This includes any type of electronic communication, such as text messages and social media channels.

All unsolicited email claiming to be from either the IRS or any other IRS-related components such as the Office of Professional Responsibility or EFTPS, should be reported to phishing@irs.gov.

Second rule of thumb: Never send sensitive financial information via email - it is not secure. This includes social security numbers or PIN numbers, passwords and other access information for credit cards, banks or other financial accounts.

Third rule of thumb: If you get an email request to update your password or to enter an account number, password, or other identifiable information, DO NOT click on a link or reply. Instead, go directly to the site of the organization that is asking for the update and sign in to your account. If there is a request for updated information, you will find it there.

Fourth rule of thumb: Never enter any financial or account information on a site unless you are sure it is secure. How can you tell? Look for the "s" - most websites are preceded by http:// - secure websites use https:// - that one little letter makes all the difference. Most browsers will also show a little icon of a padlock right in the address bar beside the web address. You can't always trust a web page graphic promising security since these can be faked - look for the website address and the padlock in the address bar.

For more, see our past posts:
How Can I Securely Send Sensitive Tax Docs to My Tax Preparer?

Don't get hooked by tax-time phishing!

First, a message from our sponsors. These smart dogs offer some good seasonal advice:

Now, some additional tips rounded up by the Renaissance Alliance Insurance Agents to help you navigate the season safely:

12 Holiday Decorating Safety Tips

Holiday Lighting Safety

Holiday Fire Facts

Trouble in Toyland: 2012 Dangerous Toys report

Holiday Health Tips

Top 10 Holiday Diet Tips

Keeping the Littlest Holiday Cooks Safe

Eating safe? Nine questions that test your food-safety know-how

Identity Fraud Prevention

Shopping Safely this Holiday Season

5 tips: Be a return-friendly shopper this holiday season

Happy Thanksgiving! We hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful holiday - here are some tips for keeping things safe & healthy!

Thanksgiving weekend used to be all about turkey, football, and family but in recent years - for better or for worse - it's all about the shopping. One can now progress from the biggest shopping day of the year - Black Friday - right through to Cyber Monday in a whirlwind frenzy of shopping. Except this year, Black Friday may start early at some of the nation's biggest box stores. In what many are calling "Grey Thursday," some stores are starting sales early, on Thanksgiving Day itself - much to the consternation of some store employees.

If you plan to brave the crowds, here are some tips for a Black Friday Personal Safety Plan to keep from being trampled, mugged, scammed, or otherwise abused. You might also want to check out these Black Friday Shopping Tips from Consumer Reports for some best shopping practices.

Saturday, November 24, 2012 is Small Business Saturday, a day we can really get behind. The purpose of this day is to to celebrate and support local small businesses. Why not support your friends and neighbors? It's a great way to ensure that your local community continues to thrive and grow.

Cyber Monday is all about online shopping - no crowds, but be alert for scammers, spammers, and phishers. Shopping online can be fun and comfortable, but you need to take steps to ensure that your shopping is secure and safe.

Here are a few safe shopping tips:

• Make sure that your web security, anti virus and malware detection programs are updated and that your firewall is on. Many experts suggest the "belt and suspenders" approach of having more than one program as a backup.
• Make sure that your browsers are up to date.
• Watch out for email phishing offers, they are getting pretty good at creating authentic-looking emails spoofs of mailings from big name entities. Don't click the link, type in the website.
• Make sure that any purchases are made in a secure environment - check for "https" in the address in your web browser - that all-important "s" stands for "secure" - never conduct a transaction without it.
• Public Wi-Fi is not secure so avoid doing banking and transactions that would expose your credit cards, passwords, or personal info.
• Before shopping, it's a good time to update your passwords. Create unique passwords for each site - here are some tips for creating secure passwords.
• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Watch out for "free" gift offers and contests from unknown sites - don't give away any personal information or credit card numbers to anyone you don't know. Stick with reputable sites and brand names.

Here are a few more tips:
11 Tips for Safe Online Shopping from PC Magazine

Holiday Shopping Dos and Don'ts

Consumer Reports Guide to Online Security

OnGuard Online-

This is a guest post by Gordon Insurance Agency, a Renaissance Alliance member agency. It is a post that was previously featured on the Agency's Personal Insurance Blog.

Insurance can be puzzling- the more you know, the better. As surprising as this may sound, insurance is not entirely about the price. Thus, we've created a list of things-to-know about insurance for your convenience.

1. Amount of coverage
What do you want to protect? That's the overall question for deciding the amount of coverage you need. The best advice we can offer you is for you to think about all the things that could potentially happen. Or consult a professional agent who will ask lots of questions to uncover areas you need to pay special attention. Although you might want to push these thoughts to the side (i.e. "that could never happen to me!"), someone has to think of these situations. Nobody plans for a car accident or a guest being injured at his/her house, yet these sorts of things happen all the time. A good way to cover a lot of these is by running down a prepared list such as this checklist for your homeowners insurance.

2. Risk level
The amount of risk you take sometimes depends on one aspect of your life: money. If you have available money, then choosing a policy with high deductibles is probably the best option for you. Remember, "Insure only what you can't afford to lose."

Obviously, this part of our list is also going to discuss risk. Some policies cover more than other policies do, so be informed on what risks you can afford to take, as well as what is the cost of transferring that risk (via insurance)? An example of this is would be a dog with a biting history. The only company that will offer coverage after a dog has bitten someone (resulting in an insurance claim) is the Massachusetts Fair Plan (MPIUA). But they might do so with a $25,000 limit of liability for dog bites. So you have to ask, is the dog worth that much to me that if he/she bites someone and it results in a $100,000 claim (we've had one here that exceeded that, and not even from a dog 'on the list'), are you prepared to pony up the next $75,000? Make sure you know what is covered on your policy, and be careful with what chances you take where insurance doesn't go.

3. Insurance company
People often assume that the insurance company will be able to handle anything and everything- you should never assume. If the company goes under, or even if the company stays around but has poor finances, then you won't get what you need. The best way to make sure that your company will be able to provide for you is to check a credit rating agency. We recommend A.M. Best Company for this. Other credit rating agencies include Fitch Ratings and Standard & Poor's.

4. Discounts
Everybody loves saving money; discounts can be available all around you, and you might not even know it! For a list of most prevalent (MA) auto insurance discounts, click our video and list. For homeowners discounts, visit our short video on homeowners discounts here. Account discounts, where you have two lines or more (such as home and auto), are often the most compelling.

Always ask your agent questions, he/she is there is serve YOU.

5. When do I need to look at new insurance?
Certain life changes will cause you to look at new insurance. These changes include:

• Starting a new business
• Buying an additional home
• Adding a driver to the auto policy
• Changing jobs (especially if you leave a rich benefits plan for a bare bones benefits employer)
• Volunteer work (such as serving on the board of a non-profit organization)

This list just helps prove a very important point: insurance is not only about the price. For a few extra dollars, you can have all sorts of things protected. Think back to the dog example- imagine how expensive it would be to defend a bad dog bite without insurance! When it comes to insurance, price is important, but it's not the only thing that matters.

This is a guest post by Ross Insurance Agency, one of the insurance agency members of Renaissance Alliance.

The introduction of new cars every spring and summer is an annual rite of passage.Potential buyers eagerly watch for new models, makes, technologies, and innovations - as well as for the new price tag. Increasingly, one of the important features that consumers look for is good fuel economy and "green" technologies that help to minimize the vehicle's impact on the environment. This year, consumers will have a helpful new tool to help with these concerns when buying a new car.

Beginning with 2013 models, all new vehicles will feature a revamped fuel economy and environmental impact label. The new labels were developed by the Department of Transportation and the Environmental Protection Agency. They represent a major change designed to give consumers actionable information, more comparison tools, and better benchmarks for potential savings.

The big number in the label's upper left is combined mileage, while city and highway mileage is included in smaller type. There is also information about the mileage range for all cars of that class so if you are buying a mid-size car,you can see the range of options and how this specific car stacks up. Another useful feature on the upper right of the label is an estimate of the additional money you will save or spend on fuel over a five year period. The label also includes an estimated annual fuel cost,and rates the vehicle for environmental impact. Finally, the label also includes a QR Code which will launch much more detailed information and additional tools if you have downloaded a scanner app on your smartphone.

There are also new labels for hybrids and electric vehicles that offer additional information specific to those vehicles, such as driving ranges. And for skeptics who think that these alternative fuel vehicles are a passing fad, a quick glance at a sample label for the electric vehicles is pretty eye-opening: An annual fuel cost of $600? Wow.

If you buy a new car this year, make sure you get the best coverage for your auto insurance in Massachusetts - look for a Renaissance Alliance Agency!

This is a guest post from Renaissance Alliance member agency Wolpert Insurance

So...your vinyl siding is melting, but the neighbor's house isn't on fire. What's the deal? MAIA's Tech Talk, author Irene Morrill, Vice President of Technical Affairs, discussed an "interesting property claim" involving vinyl siding in November 2010. Unfortunately, such claims have been reported right here in Worcester, as well as other neighboring towns and elsewhere in the country.

So, as you're looking at the side of your house, scratching your head and wondering what happened, here are a few things to consider:

Your neighbor's new energy-efficient windows; great for keeping their energy costs down, not so great at keeping your vinyl siding up. Although these windows do meet building code requirements,

"these windows can also warp inward and act like a magnifying glass, concentrating too much heat on nearby homes or business buildings".

The heat which is caused by these windows can reach temperatures over 200 degrees Fahrenheit, causing the siding to melt. 'Low E' glass reflects 70% of the sun's heat, which can easily melt vinyl siding when the distance between houses/buildings is 15 to 20 feet.

Another cause of melting vinyl siding can be neighboring roofs when the heat of dark roofs re-radiate, deforming adjacent siding.

The sun's energy strikes the roof and the heat is re-radiated and absorbed by the siding, causing it to warp. This might happen when you have a sloping, dark-colored roof that intersects a vertical wall close to a window. In effect, the building could melt itself or a close neighboring premises.

Other variables that can contribute to distorting siding:

• outdoor temps and wind speed
• proximity of other heat sources, i.e. ac compressors
• color and solar absorption of the siding (darker colors absorb more heat)
• angle of the sun and orientation of the glass relative to the siding

Unfortunately, if your home/business insurance coverage is a "named peril policy", such instances would not be covered.

If you have vinyl siding and are curious about other insurance options available to you, please contact Wolpert or your local Renaissance insurance agency.

Photo courtesy of Irene Morrill and Tech Talk, 2010

Related:
Double-pane windows can melt more than vinyl siding

"Lemon" is the generally accepted term for a defective car or a car with recurring mechanical problems that interfere with use. While many experts say that contemporary car manufacturing quality standards make it less likely that you would buy a new lemon, it's certainly not out of the question. Edmunds has a good article on what to do if you think you've been stuck with a lemon.

Consumers are in luck today with the wealth or resources online. First, research can and should start in the buying process because preventing problems is always better than dealing with them after the fact. Buyers can research car reviews, dealerships, consumer complaints. For used cars, buyers should do a VINCheck and a vehicle history search and in the case of used cars. (See our post on avoiding flood damaged cars).

If problems do occur after purchase, your warranty and your dealer is the first place to turn. Document your attempts to have things fixed, including any out-of-pocket costs and time that are involved. If problems continue, it's much easier to research things online today to see if your problem is common and to check with manufacturers. There are also a variety of ways to learn about vehicle recalls. But if all else fails, most states offer some type of consumer remedies under what is known as "lemon laws."

State laws vary as to whether they cover both new and used cars, and most require that the car was purchased in that state and with a warranty. Cars that are purchased under an "as is" agreement would generally not be covered. Plus, states have various gating issues before any remedies would kick in: the buyer must have tried to resolve the issue in various ways before being eligible for consumer protection. According to Edmunds:

State laws vary in what constitutes a "persistent" problem or the "reasonable" number of repair attempts that would get you over the border into lemon territory. In Connecticut and New York, for example, four repair attempts is the state standard for "reasonable," according to Connecticut attorney Sergei Lemberg, whose site, Lemon Justice, can help determine if you've got a lemon. But in Massachusetts, the law requires three attempts to repair the same problem in the first 15,000 miles -- and one last attempt to get the manufacturer to address the defect after that.

Here are links to state lemon laws for New England states.

Connecticut Lemon Law Program

Maine Lemon Law and State Arbitration

Massachusetts Lemon laws

New Hampshire Lemon Laws

Rhode Island Lemon Law

Vermont's Lemon Law

In this internet age of immediate access to wholesale prices and discount merchandise, many consumers may be tempted to buy insurance the same way they buy music: immediately downloaded from the source. While with some purchases it can make sense to cut out the middleman, so to speak, insurance is not the same as a new mattress or a DVD. Would you dispense with a lawyer at a real estate closing? What if you'd been unjustly arrested? Expert advice is important and your independent insurance agent can provide that, along with a layer of protection you can't get in any other way. We've spoken about the value of local, independent insurance agents before, but it's always worth rethinking.

Most people realize that insurance can be purchased in three separate ways:

• Directly, from an agent of the insurance company
• From an internet or telephone agent who may represent several different companies
• Through an independent insurance agent in your community.

Internet and phone agents may represent several different companies, but they are not members of your community. Not only does this mean that they simply may not be aware of specific state and local conditions and laws, it also means that they are just not as accountable as someone you can visit at any time. If you're purchasing insurance directly, you're also directly responsible for the level of coverage you may or may not have. That can mean that you're not covered when it counts, because no one can be an expert in every field.

A local independent insurance agent is an expert and is your representative. They are licensed professionals who know local conditions intimately. They can recommend the coverage that will keep you, your family and your property safe. It's in their best interest to keep you happy and they can shop around several different companies to find the policies to fit you best. When your life changes, they can help you change your insurance policies to reflect your new circumstances. Your agent knows you and will recommend policies that suit your lifestyle. All too often, people shop for price and sometimes unknowingly sacrifice coverage, a point this writer for Insurance Agents magazine makes. How good is it to save a few dollars if you risk a loss that costs you thousands?

Your insurance agent can also help when you need to file a claim. They act as your agent and not for the company. That can offer a lot of peace of mind at a time when you may need it most.

Don't have an agent? Here's a list of New England independent insurance agencies.

With graduations looming, many proud parents and grads are thinking about a used car purchase in the near future. Buying a used car is always tricky, but the growth of the internet has given purchasers a wide variety of new tools to make sure that everyone walks away happy. This article from Smart Money gives a variety of helpful tips and useful advice if you're planning to buy from a used car dealer and this one from MSN Money should be required reading if you're planning to buy from a private party via Craigslist. For the mechanically inclined, Popular Mechanics has a useful 10 point buyer checklist to keep in mind -- and don't forget to avoid common used car scams.

It's always a good idea to check the price of a car you're considering against the Kelley Blue Book value, easily done on their website. Remember that price can be different in different parts of the country, and experts advise doing a Craigslist check on similar cars in your area to get a feel for local prices even if you're buying from a dealership. Edmunds is one of the best online sources for used car information (new cars, too) and they have a recent article on buying a used car for under $2500. One point the experts all agree with is spending an extra $35 or so to get a carfax report on any car you're seriously considering.

Of course, you may not have your computer when you're shopping. There are car-buying apps for that. Edmunds has a highly recommended app for iPads, iPhones and Droids as does Kelley Blue Book that can instantly give you the estimated value and reviews on any car -- and with an app like Craigslist Finder, you'll be notified whenever the car of your dreams comes up for sale.

Once you have the car, it will need insurance and the way you approach that may vary depending on whether your student is a high school or college grad. Laws vary in each state and insurance companies also differ in their rules, but for the most part, children can only be covered by their parents' policy if the parents' home is their primary address. Some insurers offer exceptions if students will be away at school, but others won't insure a car if it is garaged in another state. You'll also want to check with your agent - depending on the circumstances, there may be multi-vehicle discounts if the child is insured on your policy; the student may also qualify for a Good Student Discount or for safe driver training program that will enable a discount. There's a lot to consider and a lot of variables - your independent insurance agent can help you make the right decision.

Car rental companies have been around about as long as cars have. The model is very simple: the rental company owns a fleet of cars and drivers rent them from the company. When you rent a car, a combination of your own insurance and the insurance carried by the rental company covers you for any accidents that may happen. Incidentally, many experts recommend against buying the supplemental insurance that rental car companies peddle at the counter. (Check out our prior post: Renatl car insurance - do you need it?)

However, while they're still no big threat to traditional car rental companies, there's a whole new car borrowing game in town. The first major player in the new car sharing world was Zipcar, which is now available in most urban US and European centers. Zipcar, like a traditional rental company, owns its own vehicles. The difference between Zipcar and Avis or Hertz is primarily in technology and convenience. With Zipcar, you sign up for the service online and then can pick up a car in your neighborhood more or less whenever you want. Zipcar is convenient but now there's a new paradigm out there that promises to be even more groundbreaking.

Companies like RelayRides, Getaround, JustShareIt and Wheelz don't own their own fleets of cars. Instead, they use yours. In a business model that's like couch surfing for autos, a car owner can opt to rent out their car to previously vetted drivers. At first glance, it seems like genius. Owners are delighted by the idea that instead of their cars sitting idle all day, they're out there working and making money. The renters get all the convenience of owning a car without the hassles and daily costs. And the environment heaves a sigh of relief.

Unfortunately, not all the kinks have been worked out yet - you might risk your auto insurance, or more. There are also many unanswered issues which the article raises, such as: What if a catastrophic accident results in a claim of more than $1 million, are you liable? What if you haven't been taking good care of your car and that contributes to an accident?

Traditional car insurance is not set up for this kind of car sharing and major insurance companies are strongly recommending against participation. Most insurance agencies feel that renting out your car is a violation of the terms of your car insurance policy. The New York Times reports that the Insurance Institute of America, in an emailed statement, said "If the 'renter' were involved in an accident, most likely the insurer would non-renew or maybe even rescind the auto policy," USAA, quoted in the same NYT article, says that "We would inform them (the car owners) that participating in such a program will generally result in non-renewal."

Still, it may be too soon to write off these companies completely. Given the convenience and undeniable appeal of these nontraditional car sharing programs, insurance companies may figure out some way to keep everyone happy.

Sometimes your storage needs can outstrip the capacity of your home or business. That's when self storage units come into play, holding everything from a theater troupe's extra costumes to inherited goods to boats, trailers, extra vehicles and restaurant supplies. Even if you've never been inside one, you've certainly seen them along the side of the highway. Starting in the 1960s, self storage facilities have been a big growth industry in the US. With sizes that can range from just a couple of containers to huge compounds, by the end of 2009 there were 58,000 facilities owned by 30,235 companies in existence.

With all that choice out there, it can be tough to decide which facility is right for you. This site has some good advice on what to look for when you're shopping for a self storage space and helpful information on how to pack your unit. The following checklist can help you decide which one is right for you.

• Security is the first and most important issue. The entire facility should be securely fenced. Walk around and ask how often the facility is staffed. Don't forget to consider the safety of the immediate area surrounding the facility. You don't want to keep your possessions in a neighborhood where you feel uncomfortable. Ask about onsite security features such as video surveillance. An informed manager should have the answers you need.
• When will you be able to access your possessions? Ideally, you should be able to access your self-storage unit whenever you want to. In addition, be sure that your unit is easily accessible to your car, remembering that you'll probably be coming and going with heavy boxes.
• Look for a unit with climate control options. Very high or low temperatures, as well as dampness can quickly damage appliances and furniture. Think about where the unit is situated and check to see that rising ground water from snow or rain is unable to penetrate your storage unit.
• Make sure the storage facility is clean and well maintained. Be sure to verify the facility has a permanent, reliable pest extermination contract in place before you trust them with your things.
• Check out the reputation of the storage company. Ask your neighbors and friends who they use and don't forget to ask the storage company for references. The Self Storage Trade Association could also be a valuable resource.

Once you've decided on a self storage unit, the next step is to check with your independent insurance agent to ensure that everything in your unit is just as well covered as it would be in your home or business. The Insurance Information Institute points out that standard homeowners and renters insurance policies that include off-premises protection provide coverage for property in storage facilities from theft and damage from fires, tornadoes and other disasters listed in the policy. You may also want to select a storage company that offers supplemental insurance along with their space. Find out about the facility's emergency procedures and be sure you fully understand how the insurance they are offering will cover any potential damage. The facility should also have their own insurance to cover damages or injuries that occur within their premises.

The IRS isn't the only one out to get your money this time of year. Unfortunately, this is the season for tax scam schemes, including the perennial favorite, email phishing. Email phishing, for the uninitiated, is a term referring to scam emails that take on the look and feel of an e-mail from legitimate corporations, trying to trick you into clicking on a link and entering your personal information. Sophisticated phishers can look exactly like legitimate emails if you don't know what to watch out for, and their links can lead you to ages that look remarkably like the real thing.

Phishing schemes have been around since the birth of the internet; they're the latest technological spin on a very old phone scam in which con artists called unsuspecting citizens asking for social security or credit card numbers. Just like the phone scam, the best way to react to a phishing email is to hang up: delete the email, don't click on anything and move on to the rest of your day. If you'd like to be a good citizen, you can forward the phishy email to phishing@irs.gov.

How serious is email phishing this time of year? The IRS puts it at the top of their "dirty dozen" list of tax scams. That means that it's incredibly common. You may well be the recipient of an unwanted tax scam phishing email this year. If you don't get one and want to know what they look like, Snopes.com, the well known rumor debunking site, has examples of a variety of tax phishing emails. (alert: Snopes site has popup ads).

How can you tell that an email is phishing? First, disregard any email that claims to be from the government. The IRS will never contact you by email or through any social media like Facebook or Twitter. This has been a policy for many years and it's unlikely to change. Therefore, if you receive any communication from the IRS in any other way besides mail, you can safely assume that it's faked.

Not all tax phishing emails purport to come from the IRS, though. Popular tax preparers H & R Block and Intuit, the makers of the well known tax software TurboTax, are also reporting phoney emails being issued supposedly under their name. Click links for their safety tips to protect against phishing). In a slightly different twist, H & R Block customers in Tennessee were even scammed by fake text messages. Just as in an email or phone call, texts that claim to be from tax entities should be ignored and reported. Remember, no reputable company other than your mobile phone carrier is going to contact you via text message. Intuit has an up to date list of current phishing scams on their website, so if you use TurboTax and receive any emails from them, check this list before replying or clicking on attachments.

To be safe, never click on an email attachment from anyone you don't know and make sure that any emails, even from friends, are really from them before you click. Always, always, think before you click. To use an example from my own email inbox, is it really likely that your old college friend is stranded in London without any cash and chose you to ask for a loan? If it looks suspicious, it probably is - and my friend was still in South Carolina.

Here's a good rule of thumb: If you get an email from your bank, your tax preparer, or an online merchant with an urgent request about your account, don't click the link in the email: instead, go directly to the bank or merchant website and sign in the way you normally would. If there is any urgent message, it will be listed under your account.

Presidents' Day weekend is traditionally a big car buying time. Manufacturers and dealers roll out incentives and discounts galore to lure buyers into a purchase. Is it really a good time for consumers to buy? The best time to buy is when you can afford it and when you've done your research. Rather than acting impulsively on any of the deals, you should plan your budget, your purchase goals, and do your research in advance - then, if any deals coincide with your pre-established budget, criteria, and goals - terrific!

Step by Step: Buying a new car - a good guide from Consumer Reports that covers choosing a car, what to expect at the dealership, getting the best price on your new car and your trade in, financing tips, closing the deal, and post-sale tips.

Safercar.gov Vehicle Shoppers - Consumer resources from the U.S. Department of Transportation, including 5 Star Ratings, which measure the crash worthiness and rollover safety of vehicles. Five stars is the highest rating, one is the lowest. The site also offers information on child safety, tire safety, safety technologies, and other topics.

Watch out for scams
One other thing to watch out for: The head of Consumer Affairs in Boston says to be on the alert for questionable fees. "NewsCenter 5's Susan Wornick obtained the results of a new state surveyin which state regulators, posing as consumers, called 180 car dealers across the state and found 130 charged some questionable fees that can drive up the final cost by hundreds or even more than $1,000."

Just another reason not to rush into things!

Other car-buying research tools
Consumer Reports: Step-by-step: Buying a used car

Edmunds True Cost to Own Vehicle Calculator

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's Top Safety Picks for 2012 Autos

Myths and Truths About Timing Your car Purchase

If you plan to hit the stores or the websites to shop this Thanksgiving weekend, you should give a few minutes to thinking about your safety before you do. People can get wacky over a baragain, particularly in these tough economic times. Plus, thieves love crowds - it's a perfect time for snatching purses or wallets, or stealing sensitive info that can lead to identity hijacking. Crime prevention experts suggest that You Need A Personal Safety Plan for Black Friday

Here's a few more things to watch out for and tips to stay safe:

Crowd tramplings, mobs, incidents of rage

Purse and wallet snatchings

Prevent Identify Theft & Fraud - online & off

10 tips to prevent ID theft when shopping online

If you should have a theft or an accident, report it to the police, and be sure to call your insurer or your local independent insurance agent to file a claim.

The east coast is still recovering from Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, and other heavy rain events. The succession of storms and hurricanes this season have resulted in fleets of vehicles being inoperative from flood damage. Unscrupulous car dealers are notorious for turning around these flood damaged vehicles and selling them to unsuspecting buyers. As a result the National Insurance Crime Bureau has released this list of Flood Vehicle Fraud Prevention Tips.

Here is what they recommend:

• Select a reputable car dealer.
• Inspect the vehicle for water stains, mildew, sand or silt under the carpets, floor mats, headliner cloth and behind the dashboard.
• Check for recently shampooed carpet.
  Inspect the interior upholstery and door panels for fading.
• Check for rust on screws in the console or areas where water normally doesn't reach.
• Check for mud or grit in the spare tire compartment, alternator crevices, behind wiring harnesses, around the small recesses of starter motors, power steering pumps and relays.
• Check inside the seatbelt retractors by pulling the seatbelt all the way out and inspect for moisture, mildew or grime.
• Check door speakers as they will often be damaged due to flooding.
• Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle prior to purchasing it.
• Ask about the vehicle's history. Ask whether it was in any accidents or floods.
• Inspect the title and ownership papers for any potential or questionable salvage fraud.
• Conduct a title search of the vehicle.
• Look under the hood for signs of oxidation. Pull back rubber boots around electrical and mechanical connections for these indicators: Ferrous materials will show signs of rust, Copper will show a green patina.
• Aluminum and alloys will have a white powder and pitting.
• Trust your instincts: If you don't like the answers or the deal sounds too good to be true, walk away!

Even if you aren't shopping for a vehicle you should be concerned about the aggressive flooding this year. According to The Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory the Atlantic Hurricane Season lasts until November 30th, meaning there is still a chance of even more flooding that could affect your car your home.

Take steps to protect your property. Your car insurance may cover more than you think but homeowners beware: flood damage is not covered by most homeowners policies, you would require special flood coverage. Contact your insurance agent to ensure that your vehicle and your home are protected against any future flood damage before it's too late.

An August 2011 Consumer Reports article about nutritional labeling advises us how to avoid temptation at the fast food counter, citing a study that shows that a group of people who saw calorie counts before ordering consumed 14% fewer calories than a group that didn't... other studies offer different results, showing little or no effect on consumer behavior. Does fast food nutrition labeling help us make healthier choices, yes or no?

Well, yes, and no, apparently... But we would point out one salient fact: fast food is fast. People may want to make healthy choices, but they're also in a rush. They're picking up and dropping off their kids, thinking about that presentation they need to deliver, or errands they need to run. If they had a few minutes to peruse the nutritional labeling, maybe they would have had time to make their own healthy lunch.

It makes sense to try to sort out this information and settle on selections during some free moment before placing an order. The article offers four suggestions for avoiding fast food temptation, the first being: Visit websites: Many fast-food chains post figures for fat, calories, and sodium. But that's a lot of work!

Surely there must be some magical Internet gizmo that would make all this much, much easier? And, yes, there is: Fast Food Explorer to the rescue! This clever fast food calculator makes it quick and easy to compare nutrition facts for fast food at 12 of America's most popular chains. You can view by Fat Calories, Total Calories, Cholesterol, Sodium, Carbohydrates and more in various categories, from sandwiches to side dishes -- and a handy feature is that you can compare between restaurants. So let's say you have an Arby's, a Burger King, and a Wendy's nearby, and you have a hankering for chicken: The Fast Food Explorer compares the three and instantly shows you that Wendy's 5-piece Crispy Chicken Nuggets is the healthiest (adult menu) choice.

Nice! And also rather addictively fun. Here's your easy way to make healthy decisions before you're blinking at the lunch menu and worrying about getting to your next meeting on time.

• Drive at a moderate speed
• Drive smoothly
• Reduce unnecessary drag
• Don't use premium fuel if you don't have to
• Minimize driving with a cold engine
• Keep tires properly inflated
• Buy tires with lower rolling resistance
• Avoid idling for long periods

In this short video clip, the Insurance Information Institute's Crash Test Dummies offer advice on how to choose a good insurance company.

Also check out III's article Five Insurance Mistakes to Avoid... And Still Save Money. We've summarized the five mistakes below, but you can check out the article for a more detailed explanation and ideas for better ways to save money while minimizing your risk of loss.

• Insuring a home for its real estate value rather than for the cost of rebuilding
• Selecting an insurance company by price alone.
• Dropping flood insurance
• Only purchasing the legally required amount of liability for your car
• Neglecting to buy renters insurance

The holiday season can be hard on your wallet. Here are some consumer protection tips to help you spend wisely and safely.

• Avoid impulse buys.
• Have a plan and a budget and keep track of all purchases.
• Pay in cash whenever you can. It's easier to overspend when you use credit than when you pay with cash.
• If you do use credit, brush up on your card's fees and charges so you know the real costs.
• Don't focus too heavily on discounts.
• Comparison shop. Just because something is marked as a sale doesn't mean it's the best available price.
• Read online consumer reviews - both for retailers and for products
• Check your bank and credit card statements frequently.
• Read the fine print on return and exchange policies.
• Don't open packages - especially electronics - if you know you will return the item.
• Keep receipts
• Avoid costly extended warranties
• Beware of bogus "gift cards." While gift cards now have certain consumer protections, prepaid cards and reloadable debit cards - particularly those aimed at teens - may carry high fees.
• Check your credit cards to see if they offer any added consumer protections or warranty boosters - if so, you might consider using for a large purchase.
• Watch shipping fees, which can add up. Many retailers offer free or reduced price shipping
• When shopping online, only shop at secure sites. At checkout, look for the web page to have https:// (with an "s") instead of http:// in the address.
• Don't conduct business over public wi-fi lines, which are not secure. Avoid using your credit card or doing banking when using public networks.
• Be careful about e-mail phishing. It's better to go directly to the vendor or banker's site directly to check out any offers.
• Question everything and consider bargaining. Ask if there are any promos or deals.
• Check for special discounts, such as for senior citizens, AAA members, AARP members
• Consider making your holiday gifts. Homemade gifts can be more personal and can save money.
• Ask about free boxes and free wrapping, which can save a bundle.
• Store any packages or shopping bags in your car trunk to avoid theft.

Naught & nice retailers
Consumer Reports issues its holiday season pick of the top naughty and nice retailers. The list identifies 10 companies with the most consumer-friendly policies and 10 naughty companies that have unfriendly or questionable consumer policies, such as penalties, shortened return times, high shipping costs, or unusual fees. The article invites reader feedback, and several dozen commenters add their picks for best and worst consumer policies.

Additional Resources
12 Holiday Money Mistakes To Avoid
Holiday Shoppers: Beware Bogus Gift Cards
New Gift Card Rules Protect You Better
Consumer Protections from the FTC
Shopping Safely Online - tips from the Better Business Bureau

Researchers at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) assessed 72 kids' booster seats to check for the ones that offer a good fit, one of the most important safety criteria. They designated 21 booster models as "Best Bets" and 7 as "Good Bets." That's a marked improvement over last year's list, when only 9 models earned the highest grades. They have also rated 8 models as "not recommended." See the full list: 2010 IIHS Booster Evaluation Ratings.

These ratings are important because they offer guidance on fit. While there are other tests and ratings for boosters - such as crash performance tests and ease of use - there are none that address fit. IIHS says, "Belts do the main job of keeping kids in boosters safe in crashes, but belts along with vehicle seats are designed for adults, not children, so it's important for boosters to lift kids into position for lap/shoulder belts to provide proper restraint. Children 4-8 who ride in boosters are 45 percent less likely to sustain injuries in crashes than children restrained by belts alone."

Photos used with permission of IIHS.

In the recent "200 year event" flooding in Rhode Island, hundreds if not thousands of cars were submerged in flood waters. Can those cars be salvaged? Probably not, according to experts. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) defines a flooded vehicle as one that has been completely or partially submerged in water to the extent that its body, engine, transmission or other mechanical component parts have been damaged.

According to Ronny Pucino, a body shop owner in Rhode Island, there are three main elements in a car that are affected by flooding: the upholstery, the engine and the electronics. The extent of any damage depends largely on the level of water that the car experienced. Cars that have had wheel-top level damage may be able to be salvaged if the owner acted quickly to address the damage. But when water reaches as high as the dashboard, it is more likely that the engine and the electronics have been compromised and the car will be unsalvageable.

Being alert for flood-damaged cars should be of concern to all used car buyers, regardless of geography. Often, damaged cars are professionally refurbished and shipped to other parts of the country to be sold. Experts say that flood-damaged cars end up going to places where consumers won't be likely to be on alert. Even when cars "clean up nice," they may well have electrical or engine damage.

Edmunds.com offers some good tips on how to avoid buying a flood damaged car. They present 6 tell-tale tips, which we've summarized, but click on the article for more detail.

1. Get a vehicle history report.
2. Be alert to unusual odors.
3. Look for discolored carpeting.
4. Examine the exterior for water buildup.
5. Inspect the undercarriage.
6. Be suspicious of dirt buildup in unusual areas.

CARFAX offers more excellent tips for detecting and avoiding flood-damaged cars. They also offer vehicle history reports for a fee, which could be a worthwhile investment if you find a car you're thinking of purchasing.

One other consumer service is the NICB's VINcheck, a free service provided to the public to assist in determining if a vehicle has been reported as stolen, but not recovered, or has been reported as a salvage vehicle by cooperating NICB members. You must have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to perform a search, and a maximum of five VINCheck searches can be conducted within a 24 hour period.

Shopping for health insurance coverage now that health reform has passed? Buyer beware of health insurance scams. That's the message from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), which is alerting consumers that scammers and shady operators have been surfacing since the passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2009 (PPACA). Some insurance regulators on the state level are reporting that they are receiving complaints about scam artists going door-to-door or setting up toll-free phone lines to sell bogus “ObamaCare” insurance policies.

Here are some NAIC red flags to alert you to potential fraud:

• Time-limited offers or policies with limited enrollment periods. Reputable health insurance concerns will not ask you to make a quick decision!
• A claim that the coverage is required by law. There are no coverage requirements until 2014.
• The salesperson doesn’t explain the coverages included in the policy or does not provide a full list of the coverages.
• The salesperson claims the coverage will be "grandfathered" or exempted from changes required by the health care reform law. The only policies that would be "grandfathered" are those which were in already in force before the law was signed.

Your state insurance authority is your most important resource to check insurance company and insurance agency licensing information. If you have any suspicious sales calls - either by phone or in person - trust your instincts and take the time to check things out.

If you suspect fraud or have a complaint, NAIC offers a resource to file a report.

As social networking becomes more and more ingrained in people's lives, many incautious, naive, or new users may be inadvertently heightening their risk of becoming a crime victim.

A site called PleaseRobMe.com graphically illustrates this point by highlighting recent tweets in which Twitter users are telling followers where they can be found. The site is simply aggregating public information that is available to anyone - you, me ... and crooks. As the site founder notes,

"The danger is publicly telling people where you are. This is because it leaves one place you're definitely not... home. So here we are; on one end we're leaving lights on when we're going on a holiday, and on the other we're telling everybody on the internet we're not home."

Last June, we posted Careful what you Tweet - crooks could be using social networks, too, about the highly publicized case of an active social networker who Twittered about his trip only to return home to find that his home had been burglarized while he was away. While the dangers of the Internet can sometimes be overly dramatized in the media, raising awareness of how social media tools are used is a worthy goal. It's a new era of heightened transparency and we all need to learn to step with care.

Technology security expert Brian Krebs asks if you'd have spotted this skimming fraud device when you went to use your ATM? ATM skimmers are card-reading devices that cover the real card slot, and are usually installed in conjunction with a camera to record the PIN number. Skimmers can be affixed at bank ATMs, freestanding ATMs, ATM-enabled gas station pumps, and anyplace else that an ATM might be found.

ATM skimming devices are getting more sophisticated - they've even been found in high-traffic bank lobbies. But experts say that by being alert and cautious, you can minimize your risk of being a scam victims. To help raise your awareness of what to look for, we've gathered some examples with pictures and visuals:

• Credit Card Skimming: How thieves can steal your card info without you knowing it
• Example from the University of Texas Police Department
• How to avoid ATM skimming
• Attack of the card skimmers
• This 6-minute video from the BBC's The Real Hustle demonstrates gives a fascinating overview of how ATM skimmers work:

Tips to avoid ATM skimmers
We've gleaned these "best practice" tips from some of the articles, linked above:

• Use well lit, well-trafficked ATMS with security cameras; go inside banks; be particularly careful at freestanding ATMs
• When using an ATM, check for anything unusual and be alert for any devices that may be affixed. Look for anything that protrudes from or seems affixed to the machine, any color differences, any unusual stickers. Look for nearby mirrors, pamphlet holders, speakers, or devices that could house a camera.
• Always cover the keypad with your hand to shield from any cameras that may be trying to record your PIN
• Don't let anyone "help you" at an ATM
• Check your bank account regularly to ensure funds have not been taken
• If you spot anything suspicious at an ATM, alert the bank or the police right away.

There's a group of thieves who are scheming about how to get your personal financial data this tax season and make no mistake about it - they're good at what they do. Consumer Report's Money Blog offers this advice: as you plan for tax season: Don't become a tax-time phishing victim. No matter how authentic an e-mail from the Internal Revenue Service may look, the IRS doesn't initiate taxpayer communications through email.

Know what you're up against - educate yourself about phishing
According to Wikipedia, phishing is:

"...the criminally fraudulent process of attempting to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords and credit card details by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication. Communications purporting to be from popular social web sites, auction sites, online payment processors or IT administrators are commonly used to lure the unsuspecting public. Phishing is typically carried out by e-mail or instant messaging,[1] and it often directs users to enter details at a fake website whose look and feel are almost identical to the legitimate one. Even when using server authentication, it may require tremendous skill to detect that the website is fake."

• Be suspicious of any email with urgent requests for personal financial information
• Don't use the links in an email, instant message, or chat to get to any web page if you suspect the message might not be authentic - call the company on the telephone, or log onto the website directly by typing in the Web address in your browser
• Avoid filling out forms in email messages that ask for personal financial information - you should only communicate information such as credit card numbers or account information via a secure website or the telephone
• Always ensure that you're using a secure website when submitting credit card or other sensitive information via your Web browser
• Consider installing a Web browser tool bar to help protect you from known fraudulent websites
• Regularly log into your online accounts to ensure that all transactions are legitimate
• Ensure that your browser is up to date and security patches applied
• Always report "phishing" or "spoofed" e-mails to the following groups: forward the email to reportphishing@antiphishing.org; forward the email to the Federal Trade Commission at spam@uce.gov; when forwarding spoofed messages, always include the entire original email with its original header information intact

Millions of popular Toyotas are being recalled to fix a sudden acceleration problem. While the scope of this recall is huge, the problem is not necessarily limited to Toyotas. According to Consumer Reports, in an analysis of National Highways Safety Institute complaints for sudden acceleration by auto make through August 2009, Toyotas represented only about 41% of the overall complaints. Obviously, these numbers will change, but the point is that it's a safety issue and it could happen for any driver. Would you know what to do? Consumer Reports also offers a useful video about how to safely stop your car if it accelerates suddenly:

For additional information, the Los Angeles Times offers a good article with more information on the Toyota Recall Q&A and what to do if you car suddenly accelerates.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has issued new ratings for children's auto booster seats. They've examined 60 models covering almost all models sold in the U.S. right now, and they've issue 9 "best bet" recommendations and 4 "good bet" recommendations. In addition, they've indicated 11 products which aren't aren't recommended due to poor fit.

IIHS states that more than 1,000 children 12 and younger in passenger vehicles die in crashes every year, and more than 100,000 are injured. Parents can reduce the risk to their kids by properly securing them in the back seat of their vehicle.

"Parents can't tell a good booster from a bad one just by comparing design features and price," says Anne McCartt, Institute senior vice president for research. "What really matters is if the booster you're considering correctly positions the safety belt on your 4-8 year-old in your vehicle. Our ratings make it easier to pick a safer booster for kids who have outgrown child restraints."

• See the full ratings list with model numbers and photos of seats
• Map of child restraint and booster seat laws by state
• Also see Keeping Children Safe in Crashes - a comprehensive guide for parents, which includes videos and photo examples.

In the post holiday season, we're all looking for ways to tighten our belts to save money in the new year - particularly since the economy continues to be sluggish, with no end in sight. But when making resolutions for the year ahead, the Insurance Information Institute (III) reminds us not to be penny wise and pound foolish by cutting insurance costs in a way that could cause problems later. III advises consumers to avoid the 5 Biggest Insurance Mistakes:

• Insuring a home for its real estate value rather than for the cost of rebuilding
• Selecting an insurance company by price alone
• Dropping flood insurance
• Only purchasing the legally required amount of liability for your car
• Neglecting to buy renters insurance

Other common mistakes that we see, which can cost you money:

• Forgetting to keep beneficiaries updated
• Not understanding what a policy does and doesn't cover
• Buying too much or too little coverage
• Forgetting to update coverage to reflect major life changes, such as birth, marriage, new homes
• Not verifying agent or insurer licenses
• Not taking advantage of potential discounts

Planning to get or give a flat screen TV, a new laptop, or a smart phone this holiday season? If so, you aren't alone. For the first time in more than 25 years, electronics are virtually tied with toys as the top Christmas gift item, according to holiday shopping polls conducted by America's Research Group. CEO Britt Beemer says, "Electronics sales, especially flat-panel TV sets, are flying out the door this Christmas season."

The Insurance Information Institute offers good advice for protecting your expensive electronics. Among some of their suggestions and ours:

• Contact your insurance agent to find out if your current policy will cover the new equipment or if you need additional coverage
• Learn what your homeowners or renters policy does and doesn't cover and what your dedutciblesare
• Learn what your credit cards and product warranties will and won't cover. Be sure to fill out any warranties
• Keep a copy of your purchase receipt
• Add the new item to your home inventory
• Read the product manuals to learn how to properly set up, maintain, and clean your new electronic goodies
• Invest in good surge protectors but even those won't protect your equipment from lightning. The best protection is to unplug expensive equipment during electrical storms

See more in our post from last year: Make sure your expensive gifts are protected - insure those valuables!

If you have been putting off winterizing your home, you may have woken to a little seasonal reminder this morning. Looking out the window this mid-October day, it is unusual to see snow falling here in central Massachusetts - as it is in other parts of the Eastern seaboard. If you want a sneak peak of what the season is likely to hold in store, check out AccuWeather.comcom's Chief Meteorologist and Long Range Forecaster Joe Bastardi's winter weather forecast for 2009-2010.

In this post, we've gathered up a variety of links and resources to help you in planning for winterizing your home.

Now’s The Time To Winterize Your Home
Before Winter Storms and Extreme Cold - tips from FEMA for preparing your home and your car for severe weather
How to Winterize Your Car
Homewizard - free service to help you to save energy costs, improve safety, and extend the useful lives of your home and appliances. You can sign up for monthly email reminders of various household maintenance tasks that you should be scheduling, or see the maintenance library.

Energy Money Saving Tips
20 Free Ways to Save Energy
Cheap Ways to Stay Warm this Winter
How to weatherstrip your windows - (video)

Winter Emergency Kits
Emergency Car Kit
Basic Disaster Supplies
72-Hour Family Emergency Kit

Here in Massachusetts, today's local news headlines tell us that swine flu has infected 20,000 in the state since the virus first surfaced five months ago, with 11 associated deaths. Public health officials in Massachusetts say they are expecting the first doses of swine flu vaccine to arrive within about two weeks, and will be distributed to people at highest risk from the virus.

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), in any given year, about 5% to 20% of U.S. residents will get seasonal influenza (or "flu") each year. This year, in addition to the seasonal flu, the H1N1 flu virus (also called the Swine flu) is expected to have a second wave over the next few months. The CDC discusses those who are at risk:

In seasonal flu, certain people are at "high risk" of serious complications. This includes people 65 years and older, children younger than five years old, pregnant women, and people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions. About 70% of people who have been hospitalized with this 2009 H1N1 virus have had one or more medical conditions previously recognized as placing people at "high risk" of serious seasonal flu-related complications. This includes pregnancy, diabetes, heart disease, asthma and kidney disease.

One thing that appears to be different from seasonal influenza is that adults older than 64 years do not yet appear to be at increased risk of 2009 H1N1-related complications thus far.

For prevention, the CDC suggests:

• Stay informed
• Cough or sneeze into tissues, and then discard tissues
• Wash your hands frequently
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• Stay home if you are sick

Flu.gov is a good source of information where you can get updated information. It includes information for individuals & families as well as for businesses, community planners & professionals.

H1N1 Flu information from the CDC. The CDC also posts flu updates of U.S. influenza activity based on key indicators, such as the number of doctor visits and hospitalization rates.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) encourages consumers to include a flu response plan in their disaster preparations this year and offers tips for getting your insurance matters in hand.

Pop quiz: what car do you think was the most stolen car in 2008? The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) just released its list of the top 10 stolen vehicles for 2008. You can also find out the top 10 most stolen vehicles by state. If you think having an older car is any protection, think again - older models are popular for their parts. Plus, newer models are getting harder to steal since they are more likely to be equipped with anti-theft devices.

The good news is that auto theft continues on its 5-year downward trend, with 2008 being the lowest annual total in over 20 years.

To avoid theft, NICB recommends four layers of protection:

Common Sense: Lock your car and take your keys.

Warning Device: Having and using a visible or audible warning device.

Immobilizing Device: "Kill" switches, fuel cut-offs and smart keys are among the devices which are extremely effective.

Tracking Device: A tracking device that emits a signal to the police or to a monitoring station when the vehicle is stolen is very effective in helping authorities recover stolen vehicles.

View or download a brochure with more tips on how to reduce your chances of auto theft.

Each August since 1998, as millions of freshmen prepare to embark on their college years, Beloit College has released the Beloit College Mindset List, which provides a look at the cultural environment that has shaped the lives of those students. For those of us with a few more years under out belts, the list can be startling. For the Class of 2013, "... Carter and Reagan are as distant to them as Truman and Eisenhower were to their parents. Tattoos, once thought "lower class," are, to them, quite chic. Everybody knows the news before the evening news comes on."

For this year's freshmen, Martha Graham, Pan American Airways, Michael Landon, Dr. Seuss, Miles Davis, and Freddie Mercury have always been dead. Smoking has never been glorified, books have always been available on an electronic screen, and wars have always unfolded on TV in real time. We've given you a sampling of the data points, but the entire list makes for some fun reading. You can also check back to 1998 for archived lists.

Some things never change
While the cultural zeitgeist might change, one thing never changes: Parents want to ensure that students are safe and secure while away at school. As your students head off to school, it's important take steps to ensure that they are adequately covered by insurance and make sure they understand the coverage and benefits that are available to them. If your student will be living away from home, you should ensure that they have emergency contact numbers and that they know how to report a claim if a loss or accident occurs. Some of the insurance coverage issues you need to consider include:

Health insurance - Will your student be covered under your policy or will you need to arrange coverage? Many family policies will cover full-time students but you need to check how the insurance company defines full time. Also, check your plan's benefits, coverage area, and coverage requirements. If your student is an athlete, check coverage limits - you may need to arrange for additional coverage.

Auto insurance - Will your student have a car full-time at their college? If so, they may need their own policy. If not, you may be able to save money on your policy if they are only using your car intermittently. Ask if any "good student" or "safe driver" credits are available to your student - availability may depend on the state and the insurance company.

Personal possessions - Theft is the most common crime on college campuses. If your student will live in a dorm, personal possessions may be covered under your existing homeowner's policy, but if they are living in an apartment, they may need rental insurance. Don't assume that the college or the landlord will have coverage that will encompass your child's possession in the event of fire, theft, or loss - check your homeowner's policy to learn the extent of your coverage - you may need additional insurance if your student has expensive electronic equipment.

Of course, these are just the basics. There are other issues like ID theft, credit cards, life insurance, and more. Remember, many insurance matters are state-specific and governed by state laws. Often, state insurance bureaus offer consumer alerts so check with your state's website.

Here are more resources to help you plan for the insurance needs of your college students:
College Insurance Needs - issued in 2008 from the Massachusetts Division of Insurance

Parents: Know your insurance policies before your student goes off to school - a 2009 Consumer Alert from the Kansas Insurance Department

College-Bound? Keep an Eye on Your GPA and Your Personal Possessions - insurance advice and safety tips from the Insurance Information Institute

What Your College Student Needs to Know about Identity Theft - a Consumer Alert from the National Association of Insurance Commisioners

Heading Off to College With an Empty Wallet? - tips for managing money while away at school from the Insurance Information Institute

College Athletes Often underinsured

College Health and Safety Tips

Campus Safety Tips

When times are tough, rest assured there are always scam artists around to try to make things worse. The Federal Trade Commission recently announced that it is launching a major sweep to target fraudsters and scammers who proliferate in economic downturns. Scammers thrive on people's very human vulnerabilities: fear, stress, anxiety, greed, vanity, honesty, and compassion. Where once scammers would use mail, phone, or even local solicitation, today easy to e-mail and websites allows scammers another avenue, one that can deploy pitches widely and quickly. Common schemes in this economy include get-rich-quick schemes, debt-reduction scams, job recruitment scams and work-at-home scams. Authorities warn people to beware of any jobs that require fees: "Pitches for bogus work-at-home opportunities involving medical billing, rebate processing, "mystery shopper" positions that promise to pay you for buying products anonymously for companies, and money-order processing jobs also are on the rise, say Better Business Bureau and consumer-protection officials."

Then National Consumers League has recently released its semi-annual ranking of the top telemarketing and Internet scams:

Top Scams, Jan. - June 2009
1. Fake Check Scams
2. Internet: Gen Merchandise
3. Prizes/Sweepstakes/Free Gifts
4. Phishing/Spoofing
5. Nigerian Money Offers (not prizes)
6. Business Opportunities/Franchises/Distributorship
7. Advance Fee Loans, Credit Arrangers
8. Friendship & Sweetheart Swindles
9. Internet: Auctions
10. Lotteries/Lottery Ticket Buying Clubs

Remember:

• If it sounds too good to be true, it most likely is
• Be super cautious in giving out personal information to anyone, particularly online
• Learn how to protect against phishing and other online scams designed to get your personal information or your money
• Don't send money to anyone you don't know
• Avail yourself of consumer protection tools and resources - we've compiled some below

When's the last time you got money back for insurance overpayment? If you live in the "show me" state, you might have recently had such a a windfall. Missouri's Department of Insurance has been successful in returning nearly a million dollars a month to insurance consumers as a result of mediation efforts on behalf of those who had filed complaints. Common consumer complaints included insurance companies' claims handling, as well as marketing and sales practices. Health insurance had more complaints than any other type of insurance, followed by homeowners and life.

This good news story isn't an anomaly: Insurance officials in Maryland and Connecticutt have recently announced consumer restitution for auto insurance policies after investigations revealed incorrect charges, improper claim settlements, and other problems. And in Florida, millions in restitution will be paid out to workers compensation claimants who had been victims of a fraud scheme.

What do you do if you have a complaint against an insurer or think that you have been overcharged? If you have a trusted independent agent, that's a good place to start. Independent agents are knowledgeable, licensed professionals who advocate on your behalf. They understand the terms in your policy, insurance industry standards and norms, and state insurance laws.

But if you don't have an agent, or if your complaint is with your agent, you should familiarize yourself with the consumer services that are available from your state's insurance bureau. Insurance is regulated on a state basis and each state has their own insurance bureau or division to oversee insurance laws and operations. Consumer protection is a primary mission, and one of the most important functions of any state bureau is to ensure the solvency of any insurers conducting business in the state. State oversight bodies also supervise insurers to ensure that consumers are treated fairly.

Because there are 50 different oversight bodies, consumer services can vary quite a bit from one state to the next. Some common services might include license verification for agents and insurance companies; the ability to find out if your employer is paying workers comp; hotlines for filing complaints, reporting fraud or requesting an investigation; access to mediation services or an insurance ombudsman; and online consumer information about state laws and your rights as a consumer. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers a clickable map with links to state insurance departments. NAIC also offers a service where you can search for insurance company complaint and financial information, as well as extensive consumer resources to learn more about insurance.

Especially in this tough economy, The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) is warning consumers to keep their guard up to avoid becoming victims of insurance fraud. When it comes to insurance pricing, it's best to adhere to the old adage of "if it seems to good to be true, it probably is." According to NAIC:

"Fake insurance companies and dishonest insurance agents can defraud consumers by collecting premiums for bogus policies with no intention or ability to pay claims. Phony home, health, life and auto policies typically are offered at rates that are significantly lower than the traditional market price in order to woo consumers who are trying to save money."

They suggest that if you are unsure of the company or agent that you are dealing with, take these three steps:

• STOP before signing any paperwork or writing a check
• CALL your state insurance department, which is easily reached by phone
• CONFIRM that the company or agent offering insurance is legitimate and licensed in the state.

It can also be helpful to keep informed about common fraud schemes. The Coalition for Insurance Fraud posts consumer insurance scam alerts and they feature a good list of insurance fraud links for consumers. The FBI also posts updates for common fraud schemes. Be sure to keep an eye out for your senior relatives and friends too - senior citizens are prime targets for various types of fraud, including insurance fraud.

This post was written by Pat Long of Eldredge & Lumpkin Insurance Agency

There's been more than one occasion when a customer called or visited to report a claim, and I have had to tell them they are not covered. Talk about a very uncomfortable conversation!

Insurance is an intangible; you don't need it until you need it. You pay premiums, sometimes high premiums. And often you never use the coverage. So, when you have a claim under homeowner's insurance, auto, liability, or worker's compensation, you want it covered, right? Then why are some claims not covered by insurance?

Policies as Contracts
An insurance policy is a legal contract between you, the insured, and the insurance company. You sign the application and pay the premium, and the insurance company sends you a policy. All policies define who the insured is, and they tell what the company is willing to cover. But sometimes coverage and claim do not match.

Exclusions
These are specifically noted perils that the company will not cover. For example, some homeowner's policies exclude coverage of flood damage. Many people in Louisiana did not understand this when Hurricane Katrina hit. You can purchase a separate flood policy, but flood damage is not covered by the basic homeowner's policy.

Conditions
These are general rules or procedures that the insurer and insured agree to follow, under the contract. When you sign the application and pay the premium, you agree to these conditions. For example, did you know you have duties after a loss? In order to claim a loss, you need to promptly notify the insurance company or agent; some policies have specific notification deadlines. If you have theft coverage, you're required to notify the police. If a tree falls on your home and opens a hole in the roof, you must protect the property from further damage and make reasonable and necessary repairs to protect the property. Most policies require you to cooperate with investigations and settlements. If you don't meet these conditions, the insurance company can deny the claim.

So what's the best way to make sure you are properly covered? Simply think about what is important to you:

• Do you worry about cost of health care when you get older?
• Are you concerned about your 16-year-old son or daughter driving?
• Have you inherited an heirloom and wish to pass it on to your family?
• Do you have an older home with systems that no longer meet state requirements?
• As a business person, have you just signed a contract to build three more homes?
• Do you have an office in your home?

Ask your insurance agent how best to cover what is important to you. Taking a proactive approach to insurance may avoid the discomfort of the "you're not covered" discussion.

Millions of people are sharing real time activities with friends, family and colleagues through online social networks like Twitter and Facebook. If you are one among those millions, be aware that there may be some other parties that find your tweets fascinating, too ... such as your local burglar. Recently, an active social networker Twittered about his trip only to find his home had been burglarized while he was away. While this could be coincidence, the victim thinks that it might be related to his public postings - and the news media seems to think so too - see a newsclip about the robbery.

There are likely to be many more reports of this incident since it is being heavily tweeted and it seems to have piqued the "mainstream" media's interest, too. Although the media likes to hype stories about crimes related to online activity, these types of opportunistic crimes have been going on long before social networks existed. Wiley burglars are often known to target funeral goers based on obituaries printed in newspapers or after seeing families pack the car for a trip. With basic precautions, social networking may be no more unsafe than other "real world" activities. In fact, increasingly, social networks are being harnessed by citizens and police departments to help solve crimes.

So while this incident shouldn't be blow out of proportion, it should serve as a cautionary tale of the potential downside of real-time transparency in social networks - particularly if you've attracted a following of people that you don't know very well - or at all. Take sensible precautions and think twice about what and when you share - and with whom.

It's also a wise to take home security precautions when you plan to be away on vacation - there are definite steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of your being victimized. And while nothing can take away the feeling of violation that happens after a burglary, being insured properly can help you to financially recover from a loss. If you have work equipment, antiques, or valuable collections, talk to your insurance agent about whether you need an endorsement or a rider to expand the coverage limits of your existing policy.

Most people know the basic safety precautions to take when using an ATM, such as looking for safe, well lit locations and being careful to cover the keyboard when entering a PIN - but far fewer people are aware of the increasing threat posed by ATM and credit card skimming. With card skimming, thieves attach a camouflaged card reader over a legitimate card reader, such as the one at your ATM, gas pump, or store checkout. One might think it would be easy to recognize a phony card reader - but like thousands of victims worldwide, one might be wrong. The ruses are getting more and more sophisticated and harder to detect. Some devices are placed over a keypad to record your transactions and gather your data for later use. Others are micro-hand held devices that thieves can use to quickly scan a card.

NetworkWorld offers an excellent article on ATM and credit card skimming that describes how the con works and offers an illustrated guide with examples of what to look for when using a credit or debit card. This is definitely an article worth reading and passing on.

To protect yourself from being a victim, make sure that you check out credit card readers before using them to look for any unusual signs - if you spot anything strange or get any error messages, report the problem to the bank or the responsible outlet immediately. Don't let anyone help you at an ATM outlet - this "helpfulness" is a common ploy for skimmers. Also, sign up for the online services associated with your account and check your account activity and statements every few days.

by Alan Long of Eldredge & Lumpkin

The difficult economy is not just visible in the headlines but a reality that most of us face daily. Over the last several months we have seen many customers lose their jobs, retirees watch their income from stocks and pensions disappear and contractors lose jobs. These have had a very decided trickle down effect and, as a result, many of our clients are having difficulty keeping current on their premium payments.

Insurance assumes an unwanted connotation in times like these. It is an intangible that can prompt the reaction, why put my dwindling assets towards something that may not ever be used? Unfortunately, driving a car requires insurance, carrying a mortgage requires insurance and success in bidding for jobs requires insurance. So there is a need to find a palatable way to manage these payments. This is where your insurance agent will help.

A policy review with your agency's customer service representative (CSR) will help determine if you have the most cost-appropriate coverage to fit your individual needs. The key is finding ways to make it work for you.

When you speak with your CSR before a cancellation occurs, you can actually save money and grief. Here’s why:

• Each time you receive an insurance cancellation notice (even if you get your payment in before it is actually canceled) the company charges a late fee. These range from $20-$35.
• If your policy is canceled because of non-payment – even for the first time - most companies will require a replacement policy to be paid in full up front.
• If your policy is canceled and has to be rewritten, you will lose all grandfathered benefits; these may include preferred credits, loyalty credits and pre-insurance exemption status.
• Losing a policy can be costly to the Cape Cod homeowner. We have seen companies decline to renew homeowner policies that have received too many cancellation notices.
• Even though Massachusetts does not allow credit ratings to be used as a factor in setting insurance rates, the number of issued cancellations can affect the rate you receive.
• Cancellations will affect your credit rating and have a ripple effect on your general credit standing.

Find easier ways to pay your bills. Getting organized can take away some of the stress and avoid late fees. Here are some suggestions:

• Keep a list of your policies and their effective dates. Renewed policies require at least a down payment by the effective date.
• Get a list of your installment dates. Most companies charge a fee from $4-$8 per installment. If you pay in 10 installments, you could be paying an extra $80 per year in installment payments for your insurance.
• Pay the bill at a time of year when payment is easier to manage.
• Pay bills online. Using the mail could result in late payments.Companies will consider your premium paid on the date they receive it at their place of business; afterward it is considered “late”.

Be sure to communicate with your agent and company. That’s the best way to save money and time on your insurance premium payments.

The bad news is that the number of identity fraud victims in 2008 increased 22%, encompassing 9.9 million U.S. adults. The good news is that because consumers and businesses are detecting and resolving fraud more quickly, consumer costs dropped from $718 to $496 per incident in 2008, a 31% decrease. The 2009 Identity Fraud Survey Report, which was conducted by Javelin Strategy & Research, also found that most compromised data is due to low-tech methods, such as lost or stolen wallets, checkbooks, and credit and debit cards. One other notable trend was that women were 26% more likely to be victims than men in 2008, and this is attributed to women making more in-person purchases. Also noteworthy is that 14% of the female victims experienced a lag time of one year or more before their data was compromised.

Experts suggest the following six steps to prevent identity fraud:

1.Be Vigilant - Monitor your accounts regularly online at bank and credit card websites, ATMs or by phone and set up alerts that can be sent both online and to a mobile device.

2.Keep Personal Data Private — Do not provide Social Security Numbers, passwords, PINs or account numbers by phone or online unless you initiated the interaction to a verified and trusted location.

3.Online is Safer Than Offline - Paperless transactions that are conducted in a secure online environment (keep browsers, anti-virus and anti-spyware software updated) reduce the potential for fraud. Instead of paper invoices, statements and checks, replace them with electronic versions.

4.Be Aware of Those Around You — Be alert to those around you when giving out financial information over the phone or by text. Note that more than 10 percent of victims knew their fraud perpetrator.

5.Ensure Credit and Debit Cards are Protected — Obtain credit and debit cards from financial institutions that provide zero liability if a card is ever lost, stolen or used without authorization.

6.Learn About Identity Protection Services — At a minimum, consumers should review their credit report no less than once per year, either for free at AnnualCreditReport.com or through many financial institutions’ websites.

Identity Theft Insurance
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners has a Consumer Alert about Identity Theft Insurance, noting that while policies are available, they do not protect you from becoming a victim of identity theft and do not cover direct monetary losses incurred as result of identity theft. Rather, they insure you for any costs that might be incurred in reclaiming your identity, such as hiring an attorney, taking time from work, and any administrative costs such as the cost of phone calls or postage. Before purchasing, NAIC recommends checking with your current Homeowners policy to see if it already includes such coverage. If not, NAIC offers suggestions for things to consider before you purchase.

For more resources on identity fraud, see the Federal Trade Commission's Identity Theft Site.

Every year, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) collects and analyzes consumer complaints about insurance companies through a centralized electronic Complaint Database System. This week, they released a report on top consumer complaints with insurers for 2008. Almost 20,000 complaints were logged, with the top three reasons for those complaints being delays, denials of claims and unsatisfactory settlement offers. More than 73% of the complaints dealt with Accident & Health or Auto coverage.

Consumers can view 3-year trend reports of most common complaints by reason for complaint, by type of insurance or by dispositions.

NAIC also offers resources that allow you to file a complaint with your state insurance authority or to search for complaint information about specific insurers in your state.

Of course, those of us who are independent agents would suggest that one of the best strategies to ensure satisfaction with your insurance company's quality and service is to work with an independent agent to find the best coverage options for your unique needs. All too often, consumers use price as the primary litmus test in picking an insurance company, but insurer selection should be more about finding the right combination of product, service, and price. There can be a great difference in service from one insurer to another and that can make all the difference in the world when you experience a loss and need help.

Planning any spring or summer travel? One silver lining to the bad economy is that travel prices are dropping and there are some good deals to be found...but you might want to protect your investment with travel insurance. The Insurance Information Institute's Travel Insurance Quiz offers a good overview of what travel insurance does and doesn't cover:

A new Not-in-Traffic Surveillance study sheds light on the numbers and types of injuries that occur as a result of non-crash related accidents, statistics that hadn't previously been tracked. Annually, auto-related non-traffic accidents are estimated to cause 1,747 deaths and and 841,000 injuries, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which conducted the study.

Here are some of the study findings, as reported by the Consumer Reports Car Blog:

• More than half of the non-crash fatalities in the study occurred when a vehicle fell on a person who was under it or from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning
• About 20 percent of the non-crash injuries involved slamming fingers or other extremities in a car door or trunk, or resulted from overexertion when loading or unloading a vehicle or pushing a disabled vehicle
• Across all types of tragedies, about one-third of those injured and about half of those killed were not inside the vehicle at the time
• Other common hazards included vehicle fires, anti-freeze and battery-acid burns, and falling from a vehicle
• A significant 221 deaths, and 14,000 injuries resulted from pedestrians being backed over by a vehicle

Backovers killed nearly 100 children and injured 2000 in 2007
About twice a week, kids are killed by being run over by a vehicle that is being backed up. Tragically enough, this often occurs in the home driveway with a parent or a relative at the wheel of the car. In 2007, nearly 100 children were killed and 2,000 injured when they were backed over by cars. In fact, one of the primary reasons for the new mandate to track non-traffic related injuries and deaths stems from a 2008 law requiring the tracking of data for incidents in which children are backed over, strangled by power windows or killed from being left in hot vehicles

A child safety advocacy organization called Kids and Cars says such accidents are predictable and preventable. The following video highlights the issue and shows Consumer Report studies on blind zones, which vary by vehicle, ranging from about 12 feet for a sedan to as much as 30 feet for a pickup-truck.

For additional information on back-up blind zones, see The danger of blind zones by Consumer Reports.

Doctors and dentists do it. Judges do it. Even little old ladies do it. Welcome to the 2008 Insurance Fraud Hall of Shame, a dirty dozen of "America’s most brazen, vicious or plain klutzy insurance crooks."

Insurance fraud is a crime that is estimated at as much as $80 billion a year - some would put the figure higher. Unfortunately, honest people pick up the slack for cheaters and criminals in the form of higher insurance costs. While few would argue that organized criminal scams to bilk insurers - often also harming other individuals in the process - constitute fraud, the public has mixed opinions about so-called "soft fraud." Soft fraud might be intentionally padding the value of losses in a homeowner's claim or underestimating the number of employees on payroll for workers comp. Various surveys on the public attitude to insurance fraud taken over the years have shown that many people - possibly as many as one in three - think that type of soft fraud is OK. In a recent survey in Great Britain, 4.7 million people indicated that insurance fraud is more acceptable now because of the challenging economy. But this type of fraud adds very real dollars to the amount we all pay in premiums for our insurance coverage.

Don't be an insurance fraud victim
Besides paying higher premiums, fraud can hurt individuals in many ways. Staged car crashes injure and kill innocent victims. Employers who fail to carry workers comp mean jeopardizes benefits for employees who are injured at work. Identity fraud hurts innocent people's credit and their reputations.

Here are some steps you can take to avoid being an insurance fraud victim:

• Know who you are dealing with. Use only licensed agents and licensed insurers. Contact your state insurance bureau if in doubt.
• Shop around. Ask your agent to get more than one quote.
• Don't pay premiums in cash. Get a receipt for payments.
• Get a written copy of your insurance policy and review it. Yes, even the fine print.
• Don't sign a blank form.
• Don't accept "on the spot" cash for an accident.
• Be leery of any "helpful" strangers who surface at the scene of an auto crash who offer advice on body shops, doctors, or lawyers.
• Get detailed bills for any repairs or medical services.
• Keep that old adage in mind: "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."
• Be guarded about giving out your Social Security number - don't give it out to anyone you don't know.
• Check with your state insurance bureau to be sure your employer has workers compensation insurance that would protect you in the event of an on-the-job injury.
• If you don't understand something or question the validity of something, don't be afraid to check with your state's insurance bureau.
• Report fraud when you see it.

Helpful resources:
State insurance department links
State fraud bureau links

Here's some good news about a type of insurance that you don't have to buy: the FDIC has increased its protection for your bank and credit union accounts. The basic insurance limit was raised from $100,000 to $250,000 for a single account; joint accounts may be eligible for up to $500,000 coverage.** The increased coverage is a temporary measure that will extend through the end of 2009.

With news of two banks having failed last week, the first casualties of the new year, many people are understandably concerned about whether money in their bank account would be safe if their bank should fail. If your money is in a bank that is insured by FDIC, it will be insured up to $250,000.

The FDIC - or the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation - is an independent agency of the federal government that was created in 1933 to protect consumers after thousands of banks failed during the depression. Since the start of FDIC insurance, no depositor has lost insured funds as a result of a bank failure. The key point here is that your bank must be insured by the FDIC.

You can learn more at the FDIC Frequently asked questions page, where there is information on how to find out if your bank is insured by FDIC, what types of accounts are covered, and what the coverage limits are.

**Clarification per FDIC site:
"Joint Accounts (two or more persons): $250,000 per co-owner"

As you gather your year-end documents for tax preparation, there is one important financial item that should be included: checking your insurance policies and other important financial records and plans to ensure that your designated beneficiaries are up to date. It's a good idea to review beneficiaries annually because life events may have changed your situation. Parents die, marriages dissolve, children are born, and any of these events may warrant a change in beneficiaries. Failing to periodically update your beneficiaries could have unintended consequences - you might not want a former spouse rather than your current spouse to be the beneficiary of your assets but that could happen!

Here are some best practices when naming beneficiaries:
Always name a beneficiary. People who have wills often think they have their beneficiaries covered, but this assumption can be wrong. Generally, beneficiaries named in insurance policies and retirement plans will take precedence over any instructions you leave in your will. Make sure you have specified individuals as beneficiaries in your policies and plans. People often name their "estate" as the beneficiary but this can lead to benefits being tied up in probate court. Failure to name a beneficiary may also mean that you miss out on certain plan or policy advantages. For example, if you name an estate as beneficiary, an IRA will be liquidated on your death and taxes will be due. If your spouse is named as beneficiary, he or she could potentially continue to enjoy tax-free growth.

Be specific. Avoid ambiguous language. Simply stating "my husband" or "my niece" may not be sufficient, particularly in instances of multiple marriages. It's a good idea to use full names of intended beneficiaries to avoid potential confusion or disputes.

Name a secondary beneficiary. Make sure that it will be you and not your state law that determines who will be the recipient of your policy benefits. If your primary beneficiary should pass away and you have not named a secondary or contingent beneficiary, your insurance policy or retirement plan will be distributed according to your will. If you have no will, the decision will default to state law.

Keep important records in a secure place and tell a trusted family member what and where they are. Many people die suddenly without leaving instructions as to where a will, insurance papers and other important records are kept. All too often, benefits go unclaimed because family members don't know about potential benefits or can't find important account information. Bank accounts and insurance policies are overlooked. Make sure someone in your family is familiar with your most important records and where they are kept.

Further reading:
Are your beneficiaries up to date?
Update your beneficiaries
Life Insurance: Reviewing Your Policy Important to Securing Your Family's Future
Insurance Beneficiaries

With a major ice storm under our belt, many area residents are just getting power and heat back and we are facing more potential adverse weather over the weekend.

The American Insurance Association offers handy tips to homeowners following the northeast storm, which include pointers on how to start the insurance process. And if your home has been damaged or destroyed, you may want to invest two and a half minutes to watch the Insurance Information Institute's advice on how to file a homeowner's claim:

Preparing for the next storm
With some advance notice, there are things you can do to prepare for winter storm emergencies. Here are a few good resources:

The American Red Cross suggests a list of supplies to include in a home emergency kit, covering such items as water, food, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools and emergency supplies, and special items.

Winter Power Outage Tips - an excellent resource on what to do before, during, and after an outage compiled by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency.

Don't Freeze Up (PDF) - good tips for preventing frozen pipes.

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning After an Emergency - The Centers for Disease Control inform us that every year, more than 500 people die in the U. S. from accidental CO poisoning and, sadly, here in New England, we have had carbon monoxide-related deaths after the recent storms. In Massachusetts, the law states that you must have a carbon monoxide detector on every level of your home, excluding unfinished basements, attics and crawl spaces. You may need more than one per floor because detectors must be placed within 10 feet of a bedroom door. This is good advice for homeowners whether or not your state has a law. Be sure to refresh your batteries periodically.

In these trying economic times, we've had a few people ask us what would happen if their insurer should go belly up. Because insurance laws vary state by state, there are no specific answers but we'll give you a generalized overview.

First of all, state insurance bureaus regulate insurance matters for their state. As part of that function, they require various reports to monitor the financial health and well being of insurance companies licensed in their state. But because many large insurers don't operate in just one state, or as in the recent case of AIG, in one line of business, insolvencies can and still do occur.

So what happens if you have a policy or an open claim and your insurance company gets in financial trouble? First, the state will work with the insurer to help solve the problem. And if that fails, the good news is that states operate Guaranty Funds to protect policyholders in the event of insurer insolvencies. These funds will pay claims, often giving priority to hardship cases. Some state bureaus also have a mechanism for short-term insurance coverage to allow insured parties to find alternate coverage. On the downside, however, claim payments may be delayed, settled, or capped.

There are also many excluded lines of insurance. Guaranty Funds usually cover auto and home and similiar types of insurance, but generally have exclusions. Common exclusions include life, accident and health, annuities, disability, and mortgage. Many states also draw the line at protections for high net worth insureds ($25+ million). For specifics, you would need to check with your state law.

Should worse come to worst, your local agent should be your first and best source of information. You can also learn more about the topic at the Insurance Information Institute's excellent overview of insurer insolvencies and Guaranty Funds. And you can find links to state insurance department websites on this map. Residents of New England, DC, and Virginia can find links to Guaranty Funds, which offer copies of the laws in those states.

More than 9 million Americans are victims of some type of identity fraud each year. With the implementation of new "Red Flag Rules" issued by the federal Trade Commission, consumers are slated to get more protection from identity theft. Under these regulations, banks, credit cards, and other merchants would be required to strengthen measures to detect and prevent identity theft. By enacting these regulations, much of the burden of crime prevention is shifted from the consumer to the merchant.

"In simple terms, this means each business must establish a policy for spotting danger signs -- say, if the address on a credit application doesn't match the one on the credit report for that person -- and outline steps to handle them. Steps could range from requiring further documentation to denying the application."

Implementation delayed until May 1, 2009
These regulations were slated to kick in on November 1, but the start date has recently been deferred until May 1, 2009 to allow financial institutions more time to plan for implementation of the rules and written identify theft prevention programs. While these protections will be welcome, consumers should continue to be vigilant and informed about their risk of identity theft.

Identity Theft Insurance
Check with your local insurance agent - many insurers are offering insurance policies for identity theft but it is important to understand the coverage that such policies encompass. The National Council on Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) says:

"Identity theft insurance cannot protect you from becoming a victim of identity theft and does not cover direct monetary losses incurred as result of identity theft. Instead, identity theft insurance provides coverage for the cost of reclaiming your financial identity, such as the costs of making phone calls, making copies, mailing documents, taking time off from work without pay (lost wages) and hiring an attorney."

NAIC suggests you check your current homeowners' insurance policy includes identity theft. If not, your agent may be able to add identity theft insurance to your current policy for a small fee, or help you to purchase a stand-alone policy from another insurer.

More resources:
FTC - Minimize Your Risk of Identity Theft
FTC - Tools for Victims of Identity Theft
Identity Theft Red Flag Rules