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Insurance: The Basics

Do I need business interruption insurance?

Most people would never consider opening a business without first purchasing property insurance to cover the cost to repair or replace a building or equipment that’s been damaged due to a covered peril. But too many business owners fail to think about how they would keep their business afloat if they were forced to temporarily close. Business income (interruption) coverage also known as business income coverage (BI), can help with operating expenses during the period of restoration, and includes:

What does a business owners policy (BOP) cover?

Insurance companies selling business insurance offer policies that combine protection from all major property and liability risks in one package. (They also sell coverages separately.) One package purchased by small and mid-sized businesses is the businessowners policy (BOP). Package policies are created for businesses that generally face the same kind and degree of risk. Larger companies might purchase a commercial package policy or customize their policies to meet the special risks they face.

Special event insurance

Though most often thought of with regard to weddings, special event insurance can be used to cover any occasion that might requires a significant financial outlay. If you're hosting a big party, here's how to protect yourself against circumstances outside of your control.

Identity theft insurance

Identity theft victims often spend months or years recovering from the frauds perpetrated on their bank accounts and getting their credit rating corrected. Protect yourself against identity theft with this advice.

Should you buy travel insurance?

A vacation travel break can revitalize you and can open you up to new experiences. It can also be expensive—and just because you're off from work doesn't mean the universe cooperates. Travel insurance can protect against trip cancellation and other vacation losses—here's what you need to know.

Personal watercraft insurance and safety

Personal watercraft are lots of fun to use but like any moving vehicles, they are subject to accidents. If you own or are planning to own a jet ski or other personal watercraft, consider purchasing a policy specifically designed to cover it and follow safety rules.

Boat insurance and safety

Boats afford recreation and adventure to their owners, but they come with risks, as well. Don’t let an accident or disaster sink you—understand how to insure your prized vessel.

Will my employer provide disability coverage?

Most employers offer some kind of disability insurance, but you should find out exactly what your employer offers before you have to file a claim. Most allow some short-term sick leave, which might last from a few days to as much as six months. Five states and Puerto Rico have Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) programs to provide income support to individuals who are out of work because of a non-work-related illness or injury.

How can I save money on disability insurance?

Disability insurance is critical protection against loss of income, but if your employer doesn't provide it, it can be an expense. Learn how to save on your policy.

How are disability premiums determined?

Disability premiums are based on your age, sex, occupation and the amount of potential lost income you are trying to protect.

In general, the lower the chance that your occupation puts you in harm’s way, the lower the premium. The higher the chance of injury, the bigger the premium. So, for instance, an accountant working in an office would have much lower disability premiums than a construction worker.

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