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O'Fallon, MO 63366

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The differences between term and whole life insurance

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Whole life insurance provides lifelong protection and accumulates cash value over time. It generally provides a guaranteed premium, death benefit, and cash value component that collects tax-deferred with potential dividends. On the other hand, term life insurance is often the most affordable way for individuals to get high levels of coverage for a specific period (typically 10, 20, or 30 years). Since we get asked a lot, here are a few more differences from the Senn Insurance Agency.

The primary difference between whole life insurance and term life insurance lies in their duration. At the same time, you can have a whole life policy in force your entire lifetime—so long as you continue to make payments—term policies are much shorter in duration. The primary purpose of term life insurance is financial protection. Therefore, if you die during your policy term, the insurance company pays a death benefit to your beneficiaries. After the term expires, coverage ends, and there is no death benefit payable.

Whole life policies are more expensive than term life policies because they offer more features, such as investment options for cash value accumulation and guaranteed renewability for life—meaning you can’t be denied a renewal even if your health has changed. 

On the other hand, term life insurance can be a great choice if you only need coverage for a specific period. The premiums are much lower compared to whole life because it does not have the cash value component or guaranteed renewability feature. Moreover, term life insurance is often seen as a way for individuals who don’t want or can’t afford the higher premium costs associated with whole life policies to get coverage that will provide financial security for their families.

For more information, give us at Senn Insurance Agency a call today. We serve the O’Fallon, MO area.

Protect Your Driving Privileges – Get Car Insurance

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Did you know that car insurance is mandatory in 48 out of 50 states? Are you driving legally? The Senn Insurance Agency, serving the O’Fallon, MO area, can provide the coverage you need.

You are a careful driver. Why do you need insurance? Because it offers financial protection if you cause an accident. You will be liable for any associated expenses. They include the medical costs of the injured party or their lost wages if they cannot work. Liability coverage helps to pay for these expenses.

In addition to liability coverage, collision and comprehensive insurance are recommended. Collision insurance will cover the cost of replacing or repairing your car if you are at fault in an accident or if the other driver’s insurance does not cover the cost of your repairs. Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your vehicle after a theft, vandalism, falling trees, rogue deer, floods, etc.

Law enforcement is not very forgiving to the uninsured motorist. The suspension of your license will not be lifted until you show proof of insurance coverage. Purchasing insurance on a suspended license is ridiculously expensive. It can cost from 150% to 400% of the cost of a standard policy. It is not worth the risk.

So, unless you live in Virginia or New Hampshire, where this coverage is not mandated, you should have it. It is not worth the ramifications if you drive without it.

Contact the Senn Insurance Agency today for a no-obligation quote or answers to any questions you may have. You will be glad you did.

Home Insurance and Your Rebuilt Car Project

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You’re in the middle of a vast rebuild project on that old car you bought in O’Fallon, MO a few years ago. You’re about to start work on the engine, wondering, "does my home insurance policy cover my work in progress?"

The quick answer is no. Your home insurance policy does not cover vehicles being worked on, even if they are stored in your garage. However, there are some things Senn Insurance Agency can do to make sure you and your project are protected.

Getting the Right Coverage for Your Project Car

One option is to purchase a standalone garage policy explicitly designed for people working on cars in their garages. These policies typically cover things like tools and equipment and any damage that might occur to the vehicle itself while it’s being worked on.

Another option is to add an endorsement to your existing home insurance policy. This is usually more expensive than buying a standalone garage policy, but it can be worth it if you have many other valuables you want to keep under one policy. For example, adding a classic car you don’t drive but keep stored in your garage protects it in the event of a fire, theft, or other types of damage.

Regardless of your route, make sure you talk to an agent at the Senn Insurance Agency about how to protect your vehicle rebuild project best. We’ll be able to help you assess your needs and find the right coverage for your situation. And once your project is finished, we can help you update your coverage so that you’re only paying for the protection you need. Soon you’ll be showing O’Fallon, MO your new ride!

Why life insurance is important for single people

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Residents in O’Fallon, MO and the surrounding area can rely on the team at Senn Insurance Agency for all of their insurance needs. We can help you determine if life insurance is something that can help your financial future. Contact our office today to learn more about life insurance’s many benefits. 

Single people can benefit from life insurance.

When people think of life insurance, they often think of it as a vehicle for young families to protect their children should a catastrophe occur. While this is an essential function that life insurance can serve, it is not the only one. Single people who don’t want to leave their loved ones with any financial burdens at the time of their deaths can also benefit from carrying a life insurance policy.

Even when the estate has plenty of resources to cover burial and end-of-life expenses, those funds aren’t typically accessible immediately following a death. With probate and estate settlement issues, it can take some time for funds to be disbursed according to a person’s will. This means that, in many cases, it comes down to relatives or loved ones to cover the cost of a funeral and other immediate expenses that occur at the time of a person’s death. 

Many single people opt to carry a term life policy to avoid leaving loved ones with a financial burden. This type of life insurance policy is an effective way to cover end-of-life expenses. 

Call or stop by today!

Senn Insurance Agency is here to serve the insurance needs of residents in O’Fallon, MO, and the surrounding area. If you have questions about life insurance, give us a call or come by our office today. 

Four Key Areas Covered by Auto Insurance

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Do you have auto insurance in O’Fallon, MO? Do you know what it covers? Unfortunately, most motorists buy auto insurance to comply with the law but barely understand the policy’s contents. If you want to harness the power of your car insurance policy, you must understand what it covers. This way, you will be better placed to know what "add-ons" you can purchase to boost your policy.

So, what does your car insurance cover? Senn Insurance Agency highlights four key areas covered by your auto insurance.

Liability coverage

Despite how careful you are on the road, you can cause an accident. When deemed at fault for an accident, you may be responsible for bodily injury and property damage caused. Since liability claims can be expensive, you had better cushion yourself with car insurance.

Assets coverage

Your car is not only expensive, but it also holds good memories. Since your car means the world to you, it makes sense to protect it with car insurance. Auto insurance compensates you when you lose or damage your car. You don’t have to start from scratch when the unexpected strikes.

Medical costs coverage

Car accidents are common in the US, and motorists and passengers rarely escape unscathed after an accident. Since treating auto injuries can be expensive, you are better off investing in MedPay or PIP, even if you have a health insurance plan. These policies cover expenses like partial loss of wages that aren’t covered by your health insurance.

Uninsured motorists coverage

While auto insurance is mandatory in Missouri, you still find motorists without coverage. Uninsured motorists leave a trail of uncovered damage, hence the need to invest in uninsured motorist coverage to protect you from such losses.

Ready to invest in car insurance? Please get in touch with Senn Insurance Agency. We offer comprehensive yet affordable car insurance policies in O’Fallon, MO, and surrounding areas.

Four Weird Things That Might Not be Covered by Your Home Insurance

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Your home is your safe space. It’s where you go to relax, unwind, and feel comfortable after a long hard day at work. So it’s no surprise that we’re pretty particular about what goes on inside our four walls.

But did you know there are some weird things that your home insurance might not cover? Here are four of the strangest:

Damage Caused by Pests

We all love our furry (or not so furry) friends, but did you know that your pet could void your home insurance policy? That’s right – if your pet causes damage to your home or injures someone, your home insurance company may not pay out. So it’s essential to check with your insurer before you adopt or buy a pet.

Damage Caused by War

War not only destroys homes, but it also destroys lives. The physical and emotional damage it leaves behind is immeasurable. Unfortunately, your home insurance policy probably doesn’t cover damage caused by war.

Most home insurance policies do not cover damage caused by nuclear bombs and chemical and biological weapons. So, if you live in an area prone to violence, purchasing additional coverage is essential to protect your home and belongings.

Damage Caused by a Power Outage

Power outages are quite a common occurrence these days. Unfortunately, it often leads to a lot of damage for businesses and homeowners alike. Some of the damage that isn’t covered by your homeowner’s insurance coverage in case of an outage include:

  • Damage to Electronics: If the power outage is caused by a lightning strike, your home insurance policy might not cover the damage to any electronics plugged in at the time.
  • Food Spoilage: If the power outage lasts long enough, your food could start going bad. And while most home insurance policies won’t cover the cost of the food itself, some will reimburse you for any damages caused by the spoiled food (like if it leaks and damages your flooring).
  • Loss of Business Income: If you run a business out of your home, you might not be covered for any loss of income that results from a power outage.

Repairs Resulting From Negligence

We all know that accidents happen. But if the accident was caused by negligence, your home insurance won’t cover the repairs. For example, if you leave your oven on and it starts a fire that damages your kitchen, your home insurance company will likely not pay for the repairs.

The same goes for water damage – if you leave your sink running and it floods your home, your insurance company probably won’t pay for the repairs. So, it’s essential to be careful and take precautions to prevent accidents from happening in the first place.

Bottom Line

While your home insurance policy is designed to protect you and your home, there are some things that it just doesn’t cover. So, knowing what your policy does and does not cover is essential. That way, you can ensure you’re fully protected in an emergency.

If you’re looking for the right home insurance policy for your needs, Senn Insurance Agency in O’Fallon, MO can help. We’ll work with you to find a policy that fits your budget and provides the coverage you need. Contact us today to get started!

How To Choose a Life Insurance Policy Beneficiary in Missouri

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When you purchase a life insurance policy, you must name a beneficiary. The policyholder’s beneficiary will receive the death benefit payment if you die while the insurance is in force. Choosing a beneficiary may seem simple, but it’s essential to take some time to weigh your options.

Who Can Be a Beneficiary?

You can name just about anyone as your life insurance beneficiary. This can include your spouse, child, parents, siblings, or other relatives. You can also name a non-family member, such as a close friend or business partner. You must update your beneficiaries to reflect your marital status if divorced.

What Happens if I Don’t Name a Beneficiary?

The death benefit is paid to your estate if you do not designate a beneficiary. This can complicate things for your loved ones, as they must go through probate to receive the money. Probate is a lengthy and expensive legal process, so it’s best to avoid it if possible.

Your Senn Insurance Agency agent can explain how to name beneficiaries and the best way to structure your life insurance policy.

What Are The Different Beneficiary Types?

Three common types of beneficiaries are primary, contingent, and tertiary. The primary beneficiary is the first person (or people) who will receive the death benefit. The money will go to the contingent beneficiary if they die before you do.

The contingent beneficiary is the second person (or people) in line to receive the death benefit. The money will go to the tertiary beneficiary if they die before you do. The tertiary beneficiary is the third person (or people) in line to receive the death benefit.

Contact Senn Insurance Agency to help you choose the best life insurance policy for your needs in O’Fallon, MO. Our agents can help you understand the different beneficiaries and how to name them on your policy. We’re here to help you every step of the way.

What Happens If I Miss A Payment On My Auto Insurance Policy?

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You might receive a cancellation notice in the mail if you fall behind on your payments. If you want to keep your policy, you can usually pay the amount you owe plus any late fees to reinstate it. Some insurers also offer a one-time courtesy reinstatement if you fall behind on your payments and let your policy lapse for a certain period. Contact Senn Insurance Agency if you stay in O’Fallon, MO for questions. 

What Goes Around Lateness in Auto Insurance Payment 

Your policy will typically go into a "grace period" for a set time. Usually, 10–20 days, in which you can still make the payment, and the policy will remain in effect. After that, the policy will likely go into "suspension," which means that the policy is no longer in effect, and you will no longer be covered if you are in an accident. 

If you make the payment during the grace period and your policy has gone into suspension, it will typically go back into effect. If you do not make a payment on your policy when it is due, your insurer will likely notify you that the payment was not received. To avoid having your policy canceled, keep track of the due dates for your payments and prepare to make the next one on time. 

You will receive a mail notice if you are late on your payment or your account has reached its limit. If you do not take action and make the payment, the insurer will likely cancel your policy. You will have to purchase a new policy at the current rate. If you paid your bill late, but your account did not reach its limit, you may be eligible for a one-time courtesy reinstatement. 

If you want to change your policy mid-year, you must purchase a new one at the current rate. You may be eligible for a one-time courtesy reinstatement if you paid your bill late, but your account did not reach its limit. 

Final Words 

Your insurer may cancel your policy if you have not resolved the issue and made the next payment by the due date. If you have a paid policy, you may lose any no-claims or discounts you have earned. If you have a non-paid policy, your insurer may consider the policy void and not renew it when it expires. Get help with Senn Insurance Agency serving in O’Fallon, MO.

Tips for making your home a safer place

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Home is your safe place. That is what most people feel and think. There are thousands of deaths every year in homes due to preventable accidents. Knowledge is power through falls, poisoning, or fires, and prevention is the best cure. At Senn Insurance Agency in O’Fallon, MO, we use our experience to give our customers exposure to our network of top carriers in the business. 

Falls

The main cause of death in the home for people over the age of 65 is falling. Young children are often injured this way as well. Reducing the risks of falls in your home is a great place to start making your home a safer place. 

  • Remove clutter
  • Keep stairs clear
  • Avoid throw rugs
  • Keep electric cords out of walkways
  • Have slip-proof bath mats
  • No-slip mats or stickers in showers and tubs
  • Add nightlights
  • Handrails on two sides of the stairs
  • Have adequate lighting in dark hallways

Poison

Children are the most vulnerable to poisoning in the home. Many things used regularly to clean are poisonous if ingested, and small children, especially, are prone to putting everything in their mouths. Install childproof locks on your kitchen cabinets. Never leave any medication where a child can reach it. Keep in mind that children climb and are very resourceful when putting it away. 

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Having smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home is vital. It is also essential to make sure that they are operational. The batteries should be replaced every six months, and they should be tested. It is so simple to do and can save lives. 

Contact Senn Insurance Agency in O’Fallon, MO when you are ready to discuss your home insurance needs. 

What are the different types of life insurance?

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Do you have questions about life insurance? The team at Senn Insurance Agency can help you explore your insurance options and determine which type of policy may be right for you and your family. We are proud to serve the insurance needs of the greater O’Fallon, MO community!

Different types of life insurance

There are four main types of life insurance that we would like to review today. If you would like to learn more, a local agent can answer all of your questions and help you find the right policy for your needs.

  1. Term Life – This is an excellent option for single people or those on a budget. It is essential to consider that the policies are for a defined period and expire after that term.
  2. Whole Life – One of the most popular types of permanent life insurance, a whole life policy has many benefits. You can set up such policies so that your premium will not vary throughout the policy’s life. It also builds a cash value, and your death benefit cannot change.  
  3. Variable Life – If you would like to utilize your life policy as a financial tool, several variable policies are tied to investment accounts. These policies carry a more significant amount of risk than a whole life policy.
  4. Universal Life – This is a less expensive policy type as no cash value builds over time. And your death benefit will not change.

Give us a call today!

Senn Insurance Agency is proud to work with the O’Fallon, MO area residents. If you have questions about life or any other type of insurance, give us a call or stop by our office today!