The prospect of long-term disability is so frightening that some people simply choose to ignore it. While we all hope that, "nothing will happen to me," relying on hope to protect your future earning power is simply not a good idea. Instead, choose a disability policy that provides enough coverage to enable you to continue your current lifestyle, even if you can no longer continue working. (Protecting Your Income Source provides a closer look at this important topic.)
Life Insurance
Life insurance protects the people that are financially dependent on you. If your parents, spouse, children or other loved ones would face financial hardship if you died, life insurance should be high on your list of required insurance policies. Think about how much you earn each year (and the number of years you plan to remain employed), and purchase a policy that will replace that income in the event of your untimely demise. Factor in the cost of burial, too, as the unexpected cost is a burden for many families. (For a more detailed look at the types of coverage available and factors involved in choosing the right coverage for your situation, read Buying Life Insurance: Term Versus Permanent and How Much Life Insurance Should You Carry?)
Health Insurance
The soaring cost of medical care is reason enough to make health insurance a necessity. Even a simple visit to the family doctor can result in a hefty bill. More serious injuries, that result in a hospital stay, can generate a bill that tops the price of a one-week stay at a luxury resort. Injuries that require surgery can quickly rack up five-figure costs. Although the ever-increasing cost of health insurance is a financial burden, for just about everyone, the potential cost of not having coverage is much higher. (For more insight, see Fighting The High Costs Of Healthcare.)
Homeowners Insurance
Replacing your home is an expensive proposition. Having the right homeowners insurance can make the process less difficult. When shopping for a policy, look for one that covers replacement of the structure and the contents in addition to the cost of living somewhere else while your home is repaired. (To keep reading on this subject, see Insurance Tips For Homeowners.)
Keep in mind that the cost of rebuilding doesn't need to include the cost of the land, since you already own it. Depending on the age of your home, and the amenities that it contains, the cost to replace it could be more or less than the price you paid for it. To get an accurate estimate, find out how much local builders charge per square foot and multiply that number by the amount of space you will need to replace. Don't forget to factor in the cost of upgrades and special features. Also, be sure the policy provides adequate coverage for the cost of any liability for injuries that might occur on your property.
Automobile Insurance
Some level of automobile insurance is required by law in most places. Even if you are not required to have it, and you are driving an old clunker that has been paid off for years, automobile insurance is something you shouldn't skip. If you are involved in an accident, and someone is injured or their property is damaged, you could be subject to a lawsuit that could possibly cost you everything you own. Accidents happen quickly and the results are often tragic. Having no automobile insurance or purchasing only the minimum required coverage saves you only a tiny amount of money, and puts everything else that you own at risk. (To learn more, see Shopping For Car Insurance.)
*Bonus Tip For Business Owners: In addition to the policies listed above, business owners need business insurance. Liability coverage in a litigation-happy society could be the difference between a long, prosperous endeavor and a trip to bankruptcy court.
Shop Carefully
Insurance policies come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and boast many different features, benefits and prices. Shop carefully, read the policies and talk to the agent to be certain that you understand the coverage and the cost. Make sure the policies that you purchase are adequate for your needs, and don't sign on the dotted line until you are happy with the purchase.
