What is Insurance?
Insurance refers to a financial tool that helps protect individuals and/or their assets from unexpected losses. When you purchase an insurance policy, you enter into an agreement with an insurer to cover specific risks — such as accidents, damage or liability — in exchange for a premium. Insurance provides a safety net, helping you recover financially after unforeseen events. Whether you're dealing with a car accident or a medical emergency, having the right insurance coverage can reduce the financial impact. Although insurance can’t prevent unfortunate events, it can make managing the consequences easier and more affordable.
Premium
This is the amount you pay to keep your insurance policy active, usually billed monthly or annually, regardless of whether you file a claim.
Deductible
This is a fixed amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance covers remaining eligible costs. Higher deductibles often result in lower premium payments.
Coverage Limit
The maximum amount your insurer will pay for a covered claim is called the coverage limit. If your expenses exceed this limit, you’re responsible for the remaining costs.
Claim
A claim is a formal request submitted to your insurance company asking for payment based on the terms of your policy after a covered event occurs.
Policy
This written agreement between you and your insurer outlines the coverage details, exclusions, premium costs, deductibles and rules that govern your protection.
Insurer
This refers to the company providing the insurance policy. The insurer assumes the financial risk in exchange for premium payments.
Exclusions
These are situations or events not covered by an insurance policy. Common exclusions include intentional damage, wear and tear, and certain high-risk activities.
Copay
Primarily used in health insurance, a copay is a fixed amount the insured pays for certain services, such as doctor visits and prescriptions. Your insurance covers the remaining eligible costs.
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Car Insurance
Car insurance offers financial protection in case your vehicle is damaged, stolen or involved in an accident. It typically includes coverage for liability, collision and comprehensive risks, and some policies offer additional options like roadside assistance or rental reimbursement. In most states, drivers must carry at least a minimum amount of liability coverage to legally operate a vehicle. Understanding your auto insurance options helps ensure you get the right protection at a price that fits your budget.
Home Insurance
Your home is likely one of the biggest financial investments you’ll ever make — and protecting it with the right insurance matters. Home insurance helps cover repair or rebuilding costs after damage from events like fires, storms or theft. It can also protect your belongings and provide personal liability coverage if someone gets injured on your property.
Renters Insurance
If you rent your home or apartment, renters insurance offers an affordable way to protect your personal belongings from damage or theft. While your landlord’s policy covers the building, it doesn’t extend to your furniture, electronics or other valuables. Renters insurance can also include personal liability coverage, which may protect you if someone gets injured in your home — or even if your pet causes damage. Understanding what’s covered, how much renters policies cost and how much protection you need can help you choose the right coverage without overspending.
Life Insurance
Life insurance helps protect your loved ones financially in the event of your death by providing a death benefit that can cover funeral costs, replace lost income or help pay off debts. Beyond basic protection, certain types of life insurance policies — like whole or universal — may also serve as long-term financial tools, offering options for building savings or supplementing retirement income.
Health Insurance
Health insurance plays a key role in helping you access medical care while keeping out-of-pocket costs manageable. Whether you’re insured through your employer, the state Marketplace or a government program like Medicare or Medicaid, understanding your health insurance options can help you make an informed decision. With various plan levels, costs and coverage structures, choosing the right policy can feel overwhelming. Becoming familiar with how plans work — including premiums, deductibles and provider networks — and reviewing your typical care needs can simplify the process and ensure you choose a plan that fits your health and financial goals.
Small Business Insurance
Running a business comes with risks, such as property damage, liability claims and unexpected disruptions that could impact your income. Small business insurance coverage helps protect your company’s finances and ensures operations can continue after unforeseen events. The right policy can safeguard your assets, cover legal costs and help you meet regulatory or contract requirements. Whether you operate from a storefront or manage a service-based business remotely, having adequate coverage is essential for long-term stability.
Pet Insurance
Pet insurance helps cover the cost of veterinary care in the event of accidents, illnesses or emergencies — and for some pet owners, it can mean the difference between life-saving treatment and financial strain. While not every policy is the right fit for every pet, it can be particularly valuable for breeds prone to health issues or for owners seeking more predictable care costs. Unlike human health insurance, pet insurance isn’t heavily regulated, which means coverage and exclusions vary widely.