Archives: 2025

5 Essential Compliance Tips for Restaurant Owners

Running a restaurant is a complex task that requires managing staff, pleasing customers, and marketing to keep customers coming in. Amid the daily hustle, compliance with regulatory requirements can slip down the priority list. Overlooking these requirements can lead to serious financial and legal consequences that can jeopardize your business. The following five essential compliance tips can help restaurant owners navigate this complex landscape:

Understand Food Safety Regulations

Food safety is crucial for every restaurant. Regulators rely on the Food Code published by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Violations could tarnish the reputation of your business or even lead to closure. A thorough understanding of all food safety laws, including hygiene practices, storage guidelines, and temperature controls, is crucial. 

Do not skimp on equipment such as refrigeration units and thermometers, and invest in regular training for your staff. General business liability insurance is essential to cover medical expenses, legal fees, and settlements if a customer claims to have contracted food poisoning at your restaurant. 

Stay Compliant with Wage and Hour and Employment Laws

Managing workers involves more than giving instructions and writing paychecks. You must also comply with wage and hour law and other employment law issues, ensure tips are distributed correctly, and maintain accurate records. In an industry with high employee turnover, disputes over pay are common. Noncompliance with state and federal employment laws can lead to expensive fines or lawsuits. 

Restaurant staff face unique risks daily, from slip and fall accidents to kitchen cuts or burns. Workers’ compensation insurance is required in most states. It also protects your business from financial fallout if an employee is injured.

Obtain the Right Permits and Licenses

Restaurants are heavily regulated, from food handler permits to liquor licenses. Operating without the proper documentation can lead to fines, forced closure, and legal action. Acquiring the necessary permits initially is not enough. You must also stay on top of renewals and any changes in regulations. 

Business insurance plays an essential role in shielding your restaurant from financial and reputational harm. If you serve alcohol, liquor liability insurance is a must. This coverage protects from lawsuits stemming from alcohol-related incidents, such as an accident caused by a patron after leaving your establishment. 

Protect Customer Data

In addition to employee data, many restaurants in today’s digital age collect customer data through credit card payments, online reservations, and loyalty programs. With that comes responsibility for safeguarding sensitive, personal information. Safe data storage and access procedures and compliance with Payment Card Industry (PCI) standards are essential. A data breach can damage your restaurant’s reputation and lead to significant financial losses. 

Cyber liability insurance is essential coverage for restaurants. It can help cover the costs of data breaches, including legal and notification expenses and public relations efforts. Cyber liability insurance is a wise investment in a time when one security lapse can put your business in the headlines for the wrong reasons and lead to the high costs of resolving claims. 

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Compliance is more than simply following the rules. It also means being prepared to bounce back during natural disasters, equipment breakdowns, and other unexpected events. Business interruption insurance can replace lost income if your restaurant is temporarily closed due to a covered peril. 

Our knowledgeable agents can help you find the coverage you need to protect your business and comply with the industry’s many rules and regulations. 

Cyber Insurance: Why Every Small Business Needs It

When you think about cyber threats, you might picture a large corporation battling a data breach, not a small construction firm, local brewery or veterinary clinic. But here’s the reality—cybercriminals don’t just go after the big guys. In fact, small businesses are often prime targets because they typically have fewer security resources. If your business […]

How Does My Credit Score Affect My Insurance Rates?

March is National Credit Education Month—and many of us could use some help. When we think about credit scores, most of us are aware that our credit scores can affect loan approvals, car financing, credit card limits, or whether you are at the top of the list of tenants a landlord will consider. 

Another area where credit score plays a critical role is in determining insurance rates. Your credit score, calculated from the information in your credit report, directly influences how much you pay for auto, homeowners, or renters insurance.

What Is the Connection Between Credit Scores and Insurance Rates?

Insurance companies are in business for profit and are concerned with managing risk. Each policyholder represents a unique set of probabilities. The goal is to assess the likelihood that you will file a claim, the potential payment for that claim, and your overall reliability as a customer. They use a combination of factors, including your credit score, to assess the risk. 

They do this because studies have shown a correlation between claim behavior and credit scores. Insurers assert that individuals with lower credit scores are statistically more likely to file claims, and those claims tend to be costlier. Although this is not true for every person, data-backed trends provide insurance companies with the rationale for factoring credit scores into their calculations. 

Insurers do not look at your raw credit score like a bank or lender might. Instead, they use a specialized “insurance score” that considers credit history but focuses on factors insurers believe are more predictive of your risks as a policyholder. Outstanding debts, late payments, and the length of your credit history could play a role in determining your insurance score.

What Impact Does Credit Score Have on Insurance Rates?

Your credit score could influence your rates for auto, homeowners, or renters insurance as follows:

• Higher score = lower rates: If your credit score is strong, insurers perceive you as financially responsible and less likely to file frequent or frivolous claims. Consequently, you are likely to have access to better insurance rates.
• Lower score = higher rates: On the flip side, a lower credit score may signal financial instability to insurers. They may require higher premiums to offset the perceived risk.
• Exception to the rule: In some states, insurance companies are restricted or prohibited from using credit scores to determine insurance rates. Your credit score may not affect your insurance premiums if you reside in one of these states. 

How Can You Improve Your Insurance Rates?

If your credit score affects your insurance rates, taking the following steps can improve your credit score. While it will not happen overnight, these actions can make a significant difference over time:

• Pay bills on time: Payment history is one of the most significant factors affecting credit scores.
• Reduce credit card balances: A high ratio of balances to limits can negatively impact your score. 
• Avoid opening new credit accounts: It can temporarily lower your score due to hard inquiries on your credit report.
• Check your credit report: Review the report for errors that could drag down your score unnecessarily. 
• Meet with our experienced agent: We can work to get you the best available rates for the insurance coverage you need. 

Review Your Insurance Rates

It’s always smart to review your insurance policies regularly and shop the market to see if you can save on your rates. Contact our agency today to speak with an experienced agent who can help you find the best coverage at the right price!

Should I Switch from Term to Whole Life Insurance?

Like most answers regarding insurance, the solid answer when deciding whether to switch between term and whole life insurance is, “It depends.” There are many reasons to switch from term to whole life insurance, but the decision must reflect your situation.

To Build Savings for the Future

Unlike a term life insurance policy, which offers no value after the specified period ends, a whole life insurance policy becomes a powerful asset over time. Not only does it offer a death benefit to loved ones when you pass, but as you contribute to it over the years, the policy accumulates a cash value that grows tax-deferred. When it has a specific cash value, you can borrow it at a low rate to cover the cost of home upgrades, college expenses, or any other personal needs. 

Whole life insurance requires continued commitment. If you are uncertain if you can afford the premiums, term insurance is your best choice until your financial situation changes. 

To Provide for a Lifelong Dependent

By converting from term to whole life insurance, you can ensure there is a death benefit available to support a lifelong dependent, such as a special needs child. A whole life insurance policy can create a special needs trust (SNT). An SNT will receive the death benefit funds on behalf of your loved one, providing the means for their living expenses and other needs. 

To Reduce the Burden of Estate Taxes

If you are concerned about estate taxes, working with an insurance agent to craft a whole life insurance policy is a real benefit. Federal estate taxes are applied to individuals with assets over $13.99 million and mean losing 18 to 40 percent of your net worth in taxes. By creating a life insurance trust, your loved ones can access the funds they need—without being subject to probate or taxation. 

To Continue Coverage Despite Health Problems

If the term of your life insurance is ending, and you have concerns about health issues, it is the right time to convert your term insurance to a whole life policy. Health conditions can increase your premiums in new life insurance policies. Many insurance providers do not require a new medical check when converting a term to a whole-life policy. To Supplement Your Retirement Funds

With term insurance, your coverage will end at some point, whether 20 or 30 years. Whole life insurance policies can be structured to provide you with an annuity (regularly spaced payments) when you reach a certain age. The annuity is paid out of the cash value in your account, providing you with more financial flexibility when you retire.

Ready to Make the Switch to Whole Life Insurance?

Term insurance is the lowest-cost option, but whole life insurance offers a higher level of security and can become an asset that can benefit you and your loved ones. If you are ready to make the switch, contact our office today. Our life insurance agent can discuss your personal goals and find the policy that best suits you, your family, and your budget.

Your Guide to Purchasing Small Business Insurance

Small business insurance can help independent business owners better cope with the challenges and risks inherent in their work. Several types of small business insurance policies are available—what’s right for you?

Types of Small Business Insurance Policies

All small businesses need to be insured. The types of policies available include the following:

General Liability Insurance: These policies protect against personal injury lawsuits, property damage caused by third parties, lawsuits or claims regarding false advertising, copyright infringement, and other legal claims that are costly to defend.

Commercial Property Insurance: This policy covers the cost to repair or replace lost, stolen, or damaged property that belongs to your business, such as retail inventory, office furnishings, or specialized production equipment. 

Business Owner’s Policy (BOP): A BOP combines general liability and commercial property insurance and often offers a cost-saving advantage. 

Business Interruption Insurance: Policies that protect you against unexpected business temporary closures, such as those caused by fire, flood, or another natural disaster. It can also be included as part of BOP. 

Professional Liability Insurance: This insurance best suits businesses that provide professional services. It covers lawsuits over errors, negligence, or oversight on the part of the service provider. 

Cyber Insurance: This policy type can help cover the costs of a harmful cyber-attack on your business, including ransomware and data breaches. 

Worker’s Compensation Insurance: If your employees become injured or get ill at work, worker’s compensation insurance will cover their lost wages and medical costs during their recovery.

Commercial Auto Insurance: These policies cover the legal, medical, and property damage-related expenses if your work vehicle causes an accident. 

Hired and Non-Owned Auto Insurance (HNOA): HNOA pays for accidents that involve cars that are not owned by the company, such as rental, leased, or personal vehicles used in business activities.

Why Do I Need Business Insurance?

Three reasons you need business insurance as a small business owner: 

• You and your clients are protected: If a client files a claim against your business or products, having insurance can avoid the time-consuming and costly process of fighting a lawsuit. 
• Your employees are protected: A small business insurance plan can cover job injuries and employee illnesses.
• It is a legal necessity: Depending on your industry, you must satisfy state and federal minimum business insurance requirements. 

Find Out Your Legal Requirements

Knowing what the legal insurance requirements are for your field or industry is key. Laws on insurance vary by state and industry, so check your state’s website for information. The following federally required insurance for all small businesses with employees, according to the Small Business Administration:

• Worker’s compensation
• Unemployment
• Disability insurance

Assess Your Risks

You’ll also want to consider the specific risks your business faces. For example:

• If you sell products, you will need product liability insurance to protect against defective product claims. 
• If you provide services, professional liability insurance can cover claims against alleged errors and negligence. 
• If you hold significant physical assets, commercial property insurance can protect against fire, smoke, wind, hail, water, and vandalism. 

Plan for Expansion

Think about the future and how to ensure your business can steadily grow. Starting with the bare minimum leaves no room for expansion. Always aim for the maximum coverage possible. Greater coverage allows for increased security and continued prosperity. 

Discuss Your Coverage Needs with an Agent

Once you know your risks, discuss your needs with one of our qualified small business insurance agents. We can help you fine-tune your policy to ensure the right fit for your budget and business activities. 

Choose the Best Insurance for Your Small Business

Determining the insurance to put in place to comply with the legal requirements and provide security for your company can be challenging. Luckily, you don’t have to do it alone. One of our small business insurance agents can work with you to develop a tailored policy that addresses your unique needs. Call today to schedule a consultation. 

Your Winter Electrical Safety Checklist

National Home Warranty Day was last week, so it’s an ideal time to take steps to protect your home from excessive wear and tear with a home warranty. Homeowners can guard against the unexpected with specific personal insurance policies. Keep your home safe and warm this winter with these critical electrical safety tips arranged in a handy checklist. 

Outside Power Lines and Electric Components

Ensure Your Power Lines are Clear

Heavy snow and storms can cause trees or heavy branches to fall onto energized power lines. If you see any trees that could interfere with your electricity supply or pose a fire risk, contact your utility company or a private electrical contractor with tree-trimming services to address the problem and ensure your property and home are safe.

Find and Label Your Breakers

If you haven’t been to your electrical panel recently, now is the time to re-familiarize yourself with the unit. Label what area of the house each breaker controls so it is easier to flip the right switch if a circuit blows.

Inspect and Protect Electrical Panels and Outlets

Take a brisk walk around your property and check all outdoor panels, outlets, or junction boxes are protected from the elements. Water from melting snow and ice can pose a shock hazard, and dirt and debris will eventually erode exposed electrical elements. Replace any missing covers as needed to protect these external parts of your setup.

Shield Equipment from Snow and Ice

If you have larger equipment outdoors, such as ventilation units, lighting fixtures, or wiring, be sure they are shielded with waterproof covers. Inspect any outdoor wiring for damage and get any wires showing wear replaced immediately.

Run Any Generators Outside

A generator can be a lifesaver in case of a power outage. Gas-powered generators produce toxic fumes like carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless killer. If you are running a generator, be sure it is located outside and adequately ventilated. You can use an open outdoor shed to keep snow off the system. When using extension cords, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines; don’t overload what the cord is rated for. 

Your Home’s Electrical Safety: Inside 

Watch for Water Leaks

Water near electrical systems increases the possibility of shock or fire due to the extreme conductivity of water. Inspect the roof, basement, and areas prone to water intrusions to find leaks before they lead to an electrical fire. 

Check Your Electrical Cords

The use of extension cords increases during the cold weather season. Space heaters, electric blankets, holiday lights, air purifiers, and other electrically powered items may be used. Inspecting extension and electrical cords on heaters and other electrically powered units yearly is essential to ensure no cords show any wear and tear. Replace all cords that pose a risk of fire due to wear.

Avoid Overloading a Single-Circuit

Each circuit in your home delivers a specific amount of electrical energy. If you use a power strip, be mindful of how many appliances or devices you plug into the unit. Spread high-powered appliances to different circuits or only plug in one appliance at a time to avoid tripping a breaker or causing an electrical fire due to circuit overloading. 

Understand Space Heater Safety

Never leave a space heater unattended. The U.S. Department of Energy records about 25,000 house fires related to space heaters yearly. If you need a space heater to stay comfortable, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure the unit is placed a safe distance from blankets, drapes, and other items that could ignite. Any space heater used in the home should have a shut-off feature that activates if the unit is knocked over. Check the cord and plug powering the heater. If it is hot to the touch, immediately move the heater to another outlet. Then, recheck the unit. If the cord remains hot, replace the heater.

Test Your Detection Alarms: Smoke and Carbon Monoxide

Regular testing of your smoke and carbon monoxide alarm can give you peace of mind and alert you to smoke or carbon monoxide. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years as a minimum, and batteries should be replaced yearly. The batteries need replacement if you hear a high-pitched chirping noise.

Stay Safe, Warm, and Secure This Season

This checklist will help you and your loved ones stay safe and warm with a properly functioning electrical system. A personal insurance policy can be a lifesaver for more protection from various risks. Your home warranty and personal insurance provide security and peace of mind, so you are confident you and your family are protected from fire. Contact our agents today to see how the right home insurance policy can benefit you by protecting the safety of your home. 

Do I Have Enough Life Insurance? 6 Signs to Know if You’re Underinsured

If you are uncertain if you have enough life insurance, it is time to review your existing policy or, for some people, put a new policy in place. Life insurance is dynamic and needs to change with time. As you hit significant milestones, your insurance must match the changes. Here are some signs that you are underinsured. 

You Never Calculated How Much You Need

While you may not have realized it then, you may have purchased your existing policy off face value. Maybe the death benefit seemed adequate, but did you ever calculate how much coverage you need in real-world numbers? If not, here’s a guide on how to count it up. First, list the following expenses:

• Your debts
• Your mortgage
• Several years of living expenses for your surviving family
• College costs for children
• Other major expenses, like a wedding for a child
• Medical bills
• Cost of funeral and other death expenses

This calculation will allow your surviving family to continue living comfortably after your passing. During such an emotional transition, added financial stress can weigh heavily on your loved ones. 

Your Annual Salary Has Increased

If you purchased insurance in your younger years when salaries were lower, you are likely now making many times what you did then. This is a clear sign you’ve outgrown your last policy. If your household expenses have expanded and reflect your higher income, your policy should be updated to match the current situation. 

Your Family Has Grown

Adopting a child or welcoming a newborn to the family is one of life’s most rewarding events. It is also a sign your life insurance policy must be updated. You’ll want to ensure that this new family member is correctly named as a beneficiary to help secure their future well-being should a parent or parents pass away.

You Bought a New Home

Purchasing a new home is a thrilling milestone. With it comes all the joys, risks, and costs of owning a home. Ensure your existing policy covers paying off your mortgage; if not, it’s time for an update. 

Your Spouse is Uninsured

If you are the only one employed in your household, you may need life insurance for your partner who stays home. If your partner provides essential contributions, like childcare, cleaning, cooking, gardening, maintenance, and other household functions, their absence could leave you needing thousands of dollars to cover the cost of these actions, with nowhere to turn. A life insurance policy will provide the means to care for dependents in a worst-case scenario.

Are You Underinsured? We Can Help.

If you’re in one of the above categories, don’t wait to ensure you have enough life insurance to support your family when they need it most. Our life insurance agents are available to help you make a decision that suits your budget and your family. Call today to schedule a consultation to ensure you get the right coverage for your needs. 

What is a Loss Control Program, And Do I Need One?

A loss control program is a coordinated set of actions or practices that help locate and address potential risks for a business. The program could evaluate losses from employee theft, financial difficulties from claims or lawsuits, and other risks. A tailored loss control program reduces risk and mitigates the extent of economic losses when unexpected incidents occur. 

How Do I Know If I Need a Loss Control Program?

Most businesses can benefit from a loss control program. The first step is to review your business’s risks. You have risks unique to your enterprise, along with a range of standard risks. Some common potential losses that many companies share include:

• Product theft
• Damaged inventory
• Workplace injuries
• Property damage
• Online security threats
• Client claims

Developing a Plan

Set clear targets to reduce the risk of potential loss in each area. Speaking to a business insurance agent at our firm can help. We can help walk you through your business insurance options and what policies offer. Your loss control program should list the actions to take, deadlines for completion, and the individual responsible. Vague or unclear targets rarely get completed—be specific.

Most businesses find that having a safety manual for employees is a practical part of a loss prevention program. Educating your staff makes them more likely to respond to emergencies correctly and confidently.

Getting Your Plan into Action

Take the targets from your planning papers to the physical universe. Have the assigned executives complete their tasks such as:

• Employee safety manual: Have the safety manual written, printed, distributed, and read by all employees. 
• Security cameras: Get cameras installed if needed, and place clear signage about video surveillance as a deterrent. 
• Anti-theft tags: If you work in retail, implement RFID tags. 
• Inventory monitoring: Perform regular inventory reviews to ensure your products are safe from employee theft.
• First aid stations: Be prepared in case of an accident. Purchase a quality first aid kit, or several if you have larger premises. Place first aid kits in easily accessible locations. Ensure your employees are informed where first aid supplies are available should an unexpected injury accident occur.

Monitoring Your Results

Without feedback, ensuring your efforts are working is challenging. Close the loop by asking staff and customers to share their thoughts. Do they feel more secure? Do they understand what actions to take to help avoid unnecessary risks? Regular safety training ensures your employees know what to do in case of fire, an injury, or any incident requiring immediate intervention.

Improve Your Loss Control Program

A loss control program will be outdated over time. As your business expands and changes, so do its needs. Business insurance covers many aspects of your business and can act as a safety net, ensuring your business can flourish. Some insurance providers may reward company owners who have implemented a loss control program by offering lower premiums. 

Business Insurance Gives Peace of Mind

Loss control programs can go a long way to keeping your products, clients, and personnel safe from harm, but they can also protect your enterprise from unexpected financial losses. Speak with one of our business insurance agents today to have your current policy reviewed and learn if new options on the market could better serve your operation. You have worked hard to build your business; your business insurance policy safeguards against losses you can’t afford.

5 Winter Driving Mistakes That May Increase Your Premium

Yesterday was Car Insurance Day. The first day of February serves as a yearly reminder of the comfort brought by our services. As we face the last several weeks of winter, it is the perfect time for an insurance policy review to check that your policy still meets your needs. Safe driving is the best strategy to keep your premiums as low as possible. 

Not Clearing All the Snow Off Your Vehicle

While you may be tempted to quickly sweep the snow off the windshield when you are in a hurry to get somewhere, failing to clear the snow from the top or front of your car can have disastrous consequences. Sudden stops, starts, or turns can result in snow from your roof sliding down and covering your front or back window or the snow on the hood of your car sliding upwards, dangerously obscuring your view.

Staying Bundled Up While Driving

Brr—it’s cold outside! You need to wear layers when you are outdoors and need to stay warm. While you need warm clothing outside, wearing mittens and a thick coat in the driver’s seat can be a liability, reducing your ability to grip the wheel and control the car. Bulky snow boots can make it hard to feel the pedal position and wide boots can make pressing one pedal at a time difficult. Leave your bulky winter clothes in the back seat and use the car’s heating system to stay warm when driving. 

Driving Too Fast for Weather Conditions

The posted speed limit is the maximum speed under normal conditions. Remember that snow, ice, and other winter weather hazards can add minutes, if not hours, to your travel time. Always head out with time to spare. Fast driving in snowy, icy, or rainy conditions or exceeding the speed limit in winter conditions puts you and others at risk should the vehicle go out of control. If you cause a crash by driving unsafely in winter weather conditions, it signals to your policy provider that you are a higher-risk driver; your insurance premium will increase.

Following Too Closely on Slippery Roads

Tailgating and following another car too closely is always illegal. When the roads are icy, braking requires even more distance. Tailgating is more than unpleasant to your fellow drivers; it is dangerous driving behavior that can lead to a fender-bender or worse. In good weather, the rule is to leave three seconds of roadway space between you and the vehicle ahead. In winter road conditions, coming to a complete stop takes even longer. You will need five to eight seconds to stop on snowy roads and 10 to 14 seconds on ice. Adjust your driving, leaving a longer distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. Stay safe and keep your insurance rates lower.

Lack of Vehicle Winter Maintenance Check

When the cold hits, it is time to get your car’s tires, brakes, and wipers checked for damage and replaced if needed. It’s much better to fix problems ahead of time than to discover them when navigating through a howling storm. Regular car maintenance can extend the life of your vehicle and improve its performance in rough weather.

Stay Safe This Winter with Car Insurance You Can Trust

No one can predict every hazard, but it pays to be prepared. Now is the time of year to review your insurance and ensure coverage. Talk with one of our agents today to see what new policies are available with better coverage at a lower cost. We are happy to review your current policy and help you have greater peace of mind, knowing you have the coverage you need.

When Should You Buy Life Insurance?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question, “When should I buy life insurance?” Let’s look at a few valuable guidelines to help you decide. Generally, buying a life insurance policy when you are young and healthy is recommended. There are multiple factors to consider in any case. 

If You Buy Insurance While Young:

Buying insurance when you are young and hopefully in good health allows you to lock in a lower premium that will stay with you for the rest of your life. It is almost as though the insurance company takes a snapshot of your current age, medical history, habits, hobbies, and level of risk when you first enroll and never changes it. 

The possible downside of purchasing insurance in your 20s, 30s, and even early 40s is that when with whole life insurance, you will be paying premiums for longer—but are building an asset. Then there is the case of term life insurance, which only covers a specific period, for example, 30 years. If you purchase a 30-year policy at 30 years old, at 60, you will find yourself with no coverage and possibly a less-than-optimum physical condition, making it harder to acquire a new policy at a low cost.

If You Buy Life Insurance When You Are Older:

Shopping for life insurance in your 50s, 60s, 70s, and older can be much more difficult. On the upside, one could theorize that premiums will only be required for a shorter time, which could save you money. Few insurance companies won’t issue a new policy to adults in their late 60s or 70s. While most insurers are willing to do so, you can expect premiums to be much higher due to the insurance companies’ increased risk. Enrolling in an insurance plan during your prime income-earning years is a smart option.

How Do I Find the Lowest Premiums?

The simple answer? Start early. Insurance works by pooling the resources of a group of people to manage risk. If everyone waited to buy insurance until they became ill or developed physical problems, the company wouldn’t have the funds to pay claims. That’s why insurance companies generally reward people who are young and healthy for starting earlier by granting them lower premiums. Doing so expands the “risk pool,” making it easier to cover the small percentage of people who require assistance when needed. 

Considering Purchasing a Life Insurance Policy? Now’s the Time.

Young or old, healthy or not, sooner is usually better when purchasing a life insurance policy. If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to call us. Our agents will happily answer them and help you understand your options for finding the right plan for you. Don’t let your policy wait; now’s the time.