Why Basic Auto Insurance May Not Be the Right Choice for You

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Basic auto insurance is the least amount of coverage that you are required to carry. It is different from state to state, but in North Carolina it is 50/100/50. That is entirely liability coverage. $50,000 for one person injured in an accident with a max of $100,000 for all injuries. An additional $50,000 is allowed for property damage. 

Serving Matthews, NC, JC Demo Insurance Group is an independent insurance agency that can help you to determine what the right auto insurance is for you and your needs.

When Is Basic Insurance the Right Choice?

Basic auto insurance is acceptable if you own your vehicle outright and it has very little trade-in value. If you lease your vehicle or have an auto loan, you will be required to have additional coverage. They will want their investment in your vehicle covered, which means that you carry comprehensive and collision coverage. 

When Is Basic Insurance Not the Right Choice?

If you have a vehicle that you really like, and it has some value as a used vehicle, you may want to consider keeping your collision and comprehensive coverage even if you don’t owe anything. Most of us use our vehicle every day to drive to work, to run errands, chauffeur the kids and more. If you have an accident where you are responsible, and you don’t have collision and comprehensive coverage, you will be responsible for the repair or replacement yourself. 

For most people, that would be a hardship. The cost of even a used vehicle is high. Unless you have savings or are willing to take on another auto loan, you will be in a difficult situation. With those coverages, you will only have to cover the amount of the deductible. 

When you need auto insurance, give our office a call at JC Demo Insurance Group, serving Matthews, NC. We are here to help. 

Do You Need Additional Home Insurance Coverage If You Remodel Your Bathroom?

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Remodeling your home in Matthews, NC, can be a great way to breathe new life into your space, and potentially give your property value a little boost. What you might not think about, especially if you’re remodeling a smaller space, is how the changes might impact your home insurance policy. At JC Demo Insurance Group, we can fill you in on the details, so you aren’t left holding the bag. 

Home Insurance Coverage: What To Know

The general rule is to update your home insurance policy if you make any major changes to your property. The catch is that what counts as "major" can differ from homeowner to homeowner (and from insurance company to insurance company).

If you want a way to simplify matters, just consider that your carrier prefers to know exactly what they’re covering when they set the terms and conditions for your policy. So, if you spend $50,000 on a bathroom remodel and don’t update your policy, the insurance carrier might not cover the updates if they’re damaged by vandalism or weather. 

How To Update Your Policy 

If you’ve just made a few minor cosmetic improvements to your bathroom, like paint touch-ups or new fixtures, there’s no need to make a call or fill out a form. However, if you’ve put some serious work into the project, whether installing a rain shower or tiling the whole room in pure marble, contact your agent for more information.

Or, if you’re shopping around for new coverage in Matthews, NC, the staff at JC Demo Insurance Group is here to review your options, so you can find coverage that works. Contact us to get the ball rolling. 

Does Commercial Insurance Cover Employee Theft?

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Commercial insurance may not always be required in Matthews, NC, but most business owners choose to obtain it for added protection. Understanding what your policy covers, as well as what it doesn’t, is essential for handling emergencies or business losses, including theft.

Theft Coverage

It’s essential to consult with an agent at a company like JC Demo Insurance Group to verify whether theft is covered under your policy. Some policies specifically exclude theft or may exclude high-risk items such as jewelry or electronics. An experienced representative can review the fine print of your policy to ensure you are fully informed about your coverage.

Theft Claims

Even if your policy allows you to file a claim for theft, you may want to consider the implications. Each theft incident typically requires a separate claim, even if multiple thefts occur at your business. For example, if there are fifty cases of petty theft, you would need to file fifty individual claims. This could lead to an increase in your monthly premium. Additionally, you will need to pay the deductible, which may be more expensive than the value of the stolen item itself.

Employee Theft

Many commercial insurance policies exclude coverage for theft or damage caused by employees to prevent insurance fraud. This policy standard is designed to ensure that business owners do not collaborate with employees to receive insurance payouts. It is important to understand that this exclusion is not a personal issue against the business owner but rather a common practice in the industry.

If your insurance policy does not cover employee theft, you will need to report the incident to the local police department and press charges. In some cases, a judge may order the employee to pay for the stolen items.

Understanding the specifics of your insurance policy is crucial for protecting your business. At JC Demo Insurance Group, our experienced representatives are here to help you navigate your coverage options. Contact us today to learn more about our services. We proudly serve the Matthews, NC, area.

Life Insurance Ensures You Don’t Leave A Debt Burden Behind

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Life insurance is a valuable financial tool for individuals of all ages, offering protection and peace of mind for your loved ones. It ensures that your debts, such as credit card balances, auto loans, or luxury item loans, don’t become a financial burden for your family in the event of your passing. At JC Demo Insurance Group in Matthews, NC, we specialize in helping clients find the right life insurance to meet their unique coverage needs.

Many Debt Burdens Must Be Paid Even After You Pass Away

Debts like mortgages, car loans, credit card balances, and other financial obligations often remain even after you pass away. While you may feel you have plenty of time to pay them off, unexpected events can leave co-signers or family members responsible for these payments. Life insurance provides the necessary funds to discharge these debts, allowing your loved ones to continue their lives without financial strain.

You Can Choose the Level of Insurance Coverage That Fits Your Needs

Life insurance policies come in various types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. A candid discussion with your insurance agent can help you determine the appropriate level of coverage to prevent your loved ones from facing a debt burden. Tailoring your policy to your specific needs ensures you’re adequately prepared for the unexpected.

Make JC Demo Insurance Group Your Agent for Life Insurance Coverage

If you’re new to purchasing life insurance, you may have questions about policy types and coverage levels. At JC Demo Insurance Group, we provide expert advice to guide you through the process. In addition to life insurance, we offer a range of products, including home, auto, and business insurance. Contact JC Demo Insurance Group in Matthews, NC, today for a no-obligation quote and ensure your passing doesn’t leave a financial burden for those you care about.

Can My North Carolina Auto Insurance Company Charge Me More Because of a Disability?

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For drivers in Matthews, NC, who have a disability and want to understand the factors that influence auto insurance rates, JC Demo Insurance Group is here to help. Our agents can provide the most current information, remove any guesswork, and answer all your questions to ensure you’re being charged correctly.

Americans with Disabilities Act

Good news for North Carolina residents with disabilities who drive—the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits insurance companies from increasing auto insurance rates solely because of a disability. While the ADA enforces non-discrimination laws to protect you, there are specific factors that may still affect your rates.

Factors That May Increase Insurance Rates

Several factors could impact your policy rates, including:

  • Modifications to customize your vehicle, such as extended pedals.
  • The option to increase your comprehensive and collision coverage to account for vehicle modifications.
  • Additional supplemental coverage to protect custom equipment and parts for your vehicle.
  • A medical condition that affects the safety of you and other drivers.
  • A physical limitation that may increase safety risks.

It’s important to note that only a medical professional or the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles can determine whether you are fit to drive and whether a medical condition or physical limitation poses a safety risk.

Contact JC Demo Insurance Group

If you have questions about your auto insurance rates in Matthews, NC, and believe you may be overpaying due to a disability, call JC Demo Insurance Group. We’ll review your current policy and discuss options for a new plan that could save you money.

Reasons to Review Your Home Insurance Policy Annually

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Life changes quickly. One year, you’re remodeling your kitchen, the next, you’re adding a new roof, or finally turning that spare room into a home office. While these updates improve your home’s value and functionality, they can also impact your insurance needs. At JC Demo Insurance Group in Matthews, NC, we often remind homeowners of the importance of reviewing their home insurance policy annually.

Your Coverage Should Grow With Your Home

If you’ve made upgrades or renovations, your current policy might not reflect the true value of your home. This means that if something were to happen, you could be underinsured. Reviewing your policy allows you to adjust your coverage to protect your home’s current value, not what it was worth last year.

Life Events Can Shift Your Needs

Maybe you’ve welcomed a new pet, added a backyard pool, or started renting out a room. These types of changes can impact your liability coverage. Even if you haven’t made major updates, your personal belongings may have increased in value. Annual reviews ensure that everything important is still protected.

Rates and Options Change Too

Regularly reviewing your policy can reveal opportunities to save money or take advantage of new coverage options. You don’t want to miss out on better protection simply because you didn’t take the time to check.

Taking a little time once a year can make a big difference in how well your home is protected. If it’s been a while since you’ve reviewed your policy, JC Demo Insurance Group in Matthews, NC, is here to help. Let’s make sure your coverage still fits your life.

What Is the Difference Between Liability Only and Comprehensive Auto Insurance?

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When you need auto insurance, it’s important to choose the right type of coverage for your vehicle and budget. There are several types of auto insurance available, including liability-only and comprehensive coverage. The professionals at JC Demo Insurance Group, serving Matthews, NC, can help you decide which type of auto insurance is best for your needs. If you have questions about liability-only and comprehensive auto insurance, we’re here to provide answers! Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Liability-Only Auto Insurance?

Liability-only auto insurance is a type of coverage that pays for damages to the other vehicle if you cause an accident. However, it does not cover your own vehicle. This is the minimum type of auto insurance required in most states. Many people opt for liability-only insurance if they have older cars that they can afford to replace in the event of an accident.

What Is Comprehensive Auto Insurance?

Comprehensive auto insurance covers the cost to repair or replace your vehicle in the event of non-collision incidents, such as theft, fire, or natural disasters. However, it does not cover damage caused by a collision with another vehicle. Comprehensive insurance is a good option to consider if your vehicle is at high risk for theft or other non-collision events.

What Type of Auto Insurance Is Right for Me?

If you’re unsure about which type of auto insurance is best for your needs, the professionals at JC Demo Insurance Group, serving Matthews, NC, are here to help. We can assist you in shopping for an insurance policy that provides the right level of coverage at a price that fits your budget. Contact us today to get started!

Home Insurance and Burglaries: Everything You Need to Know

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No one likes to imagine their home being broken into, but the reality is that burglaries can happen—often when you least expect them. At JC Demo Insurance Group in Matthews, NC, we believe the best defense is a good offense, and that starts with understanding how home insurance can help protect you when the unexpected occurs.

What Does Home Insurance Cover in a Burglary?

If your home is broken into, your insurance policy typically helps cover the cost of stolen items. This could include electronics, jewelry, or even expensive tools from your garage. But it doesn’t stop there. Damage to your doors, windows, or locks caused during the break-in is usually covered as well. This means you won’t be left footing the bill to secure your home again.

The Importance of Documenting Your Belongings

One of the most helpful things you can do before a burglary ever happens is to maintain a home inventory. While it might sound tedious, having a list (and even photos) of your valuables can make filing a claim much smoother and quicker. Insurance companies often require proof of ownership and value, especially for high-ticket items.

Prevention and Peace of Mind

Most policies don’t just help after a burglary—they can also reward you for taking steps to prevent one. Many insurers offer discounts for security systems, deadbolt locks, and smart monitoring devices. Not only are you helping protect your home, but you’re also potentially saving money on your premiums.

If you want to ensure your home is fully protected from burglary and beyond, contact JC Demo Insurance Group in Matthews, NC. We’re here to help you feel safe, secure, and supported—every step of the way.

How Frequently Should I Review Commercial Insurance Policies in North Carolina?

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Whether you own a boutique retail shop or work as a contractor in Matthews, NC, it’s essential to know how frequently you should be reviewing your insurance policies. As your business grows, expands, or relocates, your commercial insurance needs will also shift. At JC Demo Insurance Group, we’re here to guide you in finding the best commercial insurance policies while reviewing and reassessing your needs routinely.

Review Frequency

When managing a business, it’s highly recommended to review your commercial insurance policy and needs at least once a year. This will help:

  • Check Coverage Limits: Ensure coverage limits align with asset growth and account for global or economic inflation.
  • Policy Endorsements: Ensure that your policy endorsements align with your operations throughout the year.
  • Compliance: Verify compliance with landlord and/or lender requirements.

Other Times to Review

There are other situations when reviewing your commercial insurance policies is necessary, including:

  • Expanding Locations: Adding or renovating a commercial space may require additional property and/or liability coverage.
  • Revenue Changes: Significant growth or loss in revenue will change your risk exposure. Greater revenue may require additional coverage, such as general liability and/or business interruption limits.
  • New Equipment: Adding a new work fleet or specialized tools may require commercial auto or inland marine coverage policies.
  • Adding Employees: Hiring new employees may change your workers’ compensation needs and require updates to your commercial insurance policies.

From investing in new commercial property space in Matthews, NC, to purchasing a brand-new office building, determining your commercial insurance coverage needs can be challenging. With the right insurance agency by your side, you’ll find it much easier to finalize your decisions confidently. To learn more about reviewing your commercial insurance policies and premiums, contact JC Demo Insurance Group for your consultation today.

Should Students Budget Life Insurance in Their College Finances?

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While most people attend college immediately after high school, college is accessible to every age group. Is life insurance something you need to think about while building or rebuilding your professional trajectory? JC Demo Insurance Group explains why the answer is yes.

Why Purchase Life Insurance While You’re in College Near Matthews, NC?

Life insurance protects your loved ones from debt, medical bills, and financial burdens if you pass away unexpectedly. Qualifying students can lock in low premiums for life insurance policies that last decades. The process to secure a policy is quick, as long as you have no health issues. Once active, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your loved ones are financially protected no matter what happens.

Who Qualifies for Life Insurance During Their College Years?

  • College students with responsibilities, such as children or aging parents
  • Students with co-signers on loans that don’t expire upon death
  • Students who want to pay a low cost now to cover potential health risks later

If none of these apply, life insurance may be more optional than necessary. However, that doesn’t mean you should rule it out entirely. Your health, career, and lifestyle choices will evolve as you age, and those changes could make it riskier for insurance companies to insure you. There’s no harm in visiting our office to learn more about your options and ensure you’re prepared for the future.

Are There Life Insurance Policies for College Students in Matthews, NC?

Yes, there are starter policies, as well as term or permanent life insurance with riders that trigger upon specific life events. These policies adapt to your lifestyle changes or move with you as you switch jobs or careers. Term life insurance is an affordable option, while permanent life insurance provides coverage for your entire life, not just a set period.

JC Demo Insurance Group will discuss your concerns, policy options, and questions to help you decide which carrier’s policy is best for your needs. Contact us in person or by phone for more information on life insurance.