The Weimer Insurance Blog

2010-06-17T10:56:00.000-07:00

Neckties for Father’s Day? No longer required…

Neckties may be the most popular Father’s Day gift, but it will take more than that to rescue the neckwear industry from its current slump. The Los Angeles Times reports that the number of neckties sold in the United States fell 18 percent in 2009, to 29 million. The drop is more than double the 7.3 percent decline in 2008.

Industry analysts cite the trend toward casual dress, with top executives (including President Obama) more willing to be seen in public in blazers and dress shirts but without a necktie.

Graduation – Time to Celebrate!

2010-06-11T12:45:00.000-07:00

Do you have a recent grad in the family? Congratulations! If college is the next step for your son or daughter—let us know. We might be able to help you save money on your insurance if he or she is headed to college but not taking a car.*

We can also help you make sure his or her personal belongings are covered through your homeowners insurance or a renter’s insurance policy. Contact us today, and we can help you make sure your insurance is right for this time of life.

*Discounts vary from state to state and are subject to eligibility requirements

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Going shopping? Don’t forget your cell phone

2010-05-12T08:21:00.001-07:00

Remember when cell phones were just for calling people? Nowadays we use them for all kinds of activities.

A survey sponsored by Motorola Inc., for example, found that 64 percent of consumers ages 18 to 34 had used their mobile phones as shopping assistants over the previous two weeks.

Shoppers used their phones to compare prices and features, take pictures of products they were deciding to buy, or accessing online coupons.

The survey questioned 4,500 shoppers in 11 countries. Mobile phones are most popular with shoppers in Asia, where 78 percent reported using them; the U.S. and Canada came in last for phone-assisted buying, with only 45.1 percent of consumers relying on them during shopping excursions.

Watch what you eat

2010-04-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

If you watch what you eat, you may want to know how other countries fare based on their diets.

The Japanese eat very little fat…and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
The Mexicans eat a lot of fat…and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
The Greeks eat very little butter and carbs…and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
The French eat a lot of butter and carbs…and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
The Chinese drink very little red wine…and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
The Italians drink a lot of red wine…and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
The Germans consume a lot of beer, wine, carbs, fats, and sausage…and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

CONCLUSION: Eat and drink what you like. Being American and speaking English is apparently what kills you!

Winning people over to welcome change

2010-04-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

At The Weimer Group, change is always happening. We’re in the insurance business and things are always moving at lightening speed. We’ve undergone major changes this year, a new phone systems, digital marketing program, plus the many new and amended laws and pricing issues we have had to deal with surrounding our business.

For many of us change is a difficult thing to accept. Getting our co-workers to buy into change needs to approach with enthusiasm and optimism. But we also respect those that may take time to embrace the change.

You’ve got a great proposal to make your workplace more efficient and effective. But getting your co-workers’ support is going to be tough.

Here are a few rules that’ll smooth the way:

• Know the sticking points. Never walk into a presentation without considering which issues will come up. Try to anticipate others’ concerns and reactions, and draw up a game plan to handle them.

• Focus on the issues. Don’t take objections personally. Stick to the issues and your goals.

• Gain understanding. Listen carefully to get to the bottom of objections and differences of opinion so you can move toward resolving the issues.

• Ask for help. Seek the advice of mentors and people you respect. You’ll need the backup when you face resistance from colleagues.

• Choose your battles. Remember that not all issues carry the same weight or importance. Select your battles, so you put your energies into the ones that count.

At The Weimer Group, we believe change is a positive thing. We want you to experience the best possible service you can receive, while keeping your insurance affordable. Financial security ~ peace of mind.

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Want to get away? Be wary of travel scams!

2010-04-16T08:10:00.000-07:00

If you’re already planning your summer vacation, here’s some advice from the good folks at the Consumer Information Center (www.pueblo.gsa.gov) about how to avoid travel scams that will waste your money and ruin your holiday:

• Deal only with travel agencies or tour companies that have a good standing. Ask if they belong to a professional association. Call your Better Business Bureau chapter to find out whether there have been any complaints filed against the company.

• Shop around. Never rush into booking a vacation without getting offers from at least two agencies or tour providers. Think of it as being like car shopping—find out how far your buck will stretch before you buy.

• Beware offers that are too good to be true. Be leery of “free” trips or ridiculously cheap prices. If you’re offered a “two-for-one” deal, a “free stay,” or such, make sure to find out what the deal really involves.

• Ask, and ask again. Get as many details as you can about each travel offer. Be sure you fully understand all the terms before agreeing to buy. Ask for specific names of airlines, hotels, restaurants, tour providers, or any other vendor mentioned as part of the package. Also ask whether there’s a cancellation policy.

• Get all promises in writing. Consider trip insurance for additional protection, too.

• If you’re asked to pay in advance, ask if you can pay a deposit. CIC adds that using a credit card is safest because of your right to dispute the charges if the services were misrepresented or never delivered.

- The Weimer Group. For financial security and peace of mind contact us today!

Log your gift card purchases

2010-04-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

Gift cards seem to have become the choice of many generous givers who just don’t know what to buy for their friends and family. Although they’re nice to get, they can hard to keep track of. How much money have you spent? How long do you have to use it?

Keep a gift card log, advises the Sound Money Matters Web site. It can be as simple as a sheet of paper with three or four columns, listing the store, the amount originally on the card, the amount remaining after one purchase, and the expiration date (if any). Each time you use a card, cross it out and start a new entry in your log until it’s finished. Now you’ve got an easy way to keep track of which cards are still good and how much you can still buy with them.

- The Weimer Group. Find out what separates us from the competition. For all of your insurance needs, call us today 888.304.6678.

Babysitting 101

2010-04-10T07:55:00.000-07:00

Nervous about hiring your first babysitter? Not quite sure what you should do to prepare him or her—and yourself—for the event? Keep these suggestions in mind:

• If possible, set up an introductory meeting before your babysitter actually watches your kids. Introduce him/her to your children; see how they interact and whether they seem comfortable. Also introduce the family dog to your sitter to test the same comfort zone.

• Do a quick tour around the house, pointing out key areas such as cabinets or drawers where baby/children’s items are located. Also show locations of telephones, and remember to warn the sitter of any special locks or windows that cannot be used for escape in case of an emergency.

• Have the following information written down and accessible in the event of an emergency: family name; children’s names; house address with nearest cross street; instructions on how to contact the parents; phone numbers of close relatives and neighbors; doctor’s name and phone number, along with a medical release.

• Write down any instructions about medicines to be given to the children—how much and what time.

• Give explicit instructions if a pet needs to be fed and/or taken out before bedtime,

• Let the sitter know whether or not children can have anything to eat or drink before bed.

• Generally, if you plan on being gone for more than four or five hours, phone home once to check in on the sitter and children.

- The Weimer Group

Read before burning

2010-04-07T07:51:00.000-07:00

The National Candle Association says to properly put out a candle’s flame, hold your finger in front of the flame and blow at it. The air will flow around the finger and extinguish the candle from both sides, preventing hot wax from splattering. Other tips for candle keeping and use:

Candle Safety Tips

• Never leave a burning candle unattended.

• Keep lighted candles out of the reach of children and pets.

• Keep burning candles away from combustible materials such as curtains.

• Store candles in a cool, dark, dry place.

• Before using, light and extinguish the candles so they burn better.

• Avoid drafts to prevent rapid, uneven burning or excessive dripping.

• Keep wicks trimmed to one-half inch.

• To remove wax from fabrics, scrape off excess and run boiling water through the material.

• Remove wax from holders by running hot water over them.

• Candles refrigerated before use will burn more slowly and evenly.

• Extinguish candles when they get within 2 inches of the bottom.

- The Weimer Group

Shopping online: the latest trends

2010-04-01T07:05:00.001-07:00

Going to the mall? That’s sooo 20th century.

Online shopping is the positive trend in the retail sector these days.

Here’s how it adds up, as compiled by the shopping Web site Coupon Sherpa:

• 63 percent of online shoppers are female; mothers are the fastest-growing demographic group.

• Americans spent more than $115 billion online in 2008; some forecasters say online shopping will hit almost $330 billion in 2010, or about 13 percent of total retail sales.

• U.S. consumers aren’t the world’s most prolific online shoppers. South Koreans are, with 99 percent of Internet users in that country making online purchases. Germany, the United Kingdom, and Japan run a close second, with the United States
at No. 8.

• The most popular online product? Books, followed by clothing, videos and games, airline tickets, and electronic equipment.

• 60 percent of consumers confine their shopping to a single site. The most popular shopping site is Amazon.com.

Have you shopped your car insurance online? Many consumers are using the internet to research their insurance. Did you though that while most people shop the web for car insurance, when surveyed, many still like the thought of having an agent explain and take care of their purchase. Contact us today and let us work for you! Find out what separates us from the competition.

Save dough when you rent wheels

2010-03-08T11:11:00.001-08:00

Travel is expensive enough. When you need to rent a car, don’t spend money unnecessarily.

Here’s a tip: Don’t rent your car at the airport. Often it’s cheaper to take a cab or public transportation into the city, where you can avoid extra taxes and user fees that city governments often impose on airport rentals.

You can usually return the car at the airport with no extra charge, as rental companies generally allow customers to drop off their vehicles at a different location.

If you’re staying at a hotel, park at a public lot down the street. Chances are the rates will be cheaper than the hotel’s overnight parking fees.

Also, check with your insurance company to discuss whether you should consider purchasing the collision damage waiver that many car rental agencies offer.

At The Weimer Group, we provide prompt, personal service to our clients. Call 888.304.6678 today to speak to one of our knowledgeable insurance specialists. Or visit us at www.TheWeimerGroup.com to request a quote. Find out what separates us from the competition.

Tents for Haiti

2010-02-18T06:24:00.001-08:00

With the news of Haiti's earthquake and the outcry for help, the Tents for Haiti Project is a wonderful way to help those that need it the most. Imagine losing your home, your belongings and having to sleep in a field. Imagine having to keep your children warm at night by placing in between you. Imagine for one minute how you would feel.
Make a difference! Facebook users search for Tents for Haiti Project and join the cause now. Consider donating a tent, a tarp, a 5-gallon bucket, blanket/sheets, hygiene products and/or money. Tents for Haiti is a community based project and you can help Haiti. If you are not a Facebook user, email for the project is tentsforhaiti@hotmail.com or contact Souderton Mennonite Church. Let's keep this cause in our thoughts daily and help these people.

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Money alone doesn’t cut

2010-02-11T08:50:00.001-08:00

What keeps employees working for your organization? Although competitive pay is essential, money alone isn’t what retains people, even in the current economic downturn. The top motivators:

1. Professional development. Give people the opportunity to learn new skills. It’s the No. 1 factor in keeping employees from jumping ship.

2. Coaching and feedback. Managers tend to think that the top performers don’t need help. However, they often benefit from feedback and guidance most. If they aren’t receiving feedback, they’ll likely believe that the company doesn’t care about their career.

3. Good bosses. You can offer every incentive under the sun, but the fact is people don’t leave jobs, they leave bosses.

Check out our Virtual Insurance Office! Plus don’t forget to subscribe to our blogs.

Beware winter’s hidden perils

2010-02-01T11:18:00.001-08:00

In the winter months, some safety hazards are more obvious than others.

Be on the lookout for these dangerous conditions:

• Carbon monoxide poisoning can often be mistaken for the flu—achiness, headache, and nausea. The gas is odorless and colorless and can affect children before it affects adults. Check your furnace and other gas-, coal-, oil-, or wood-burning appliances to make sure they aren’t threatening your safety.

• Wear bright or reflective clothing when outside, and be careful when walking near snow piles and drifts that may obscure your view or the view of a vehicle. Sliding and skidding vehicles may not be able to avoid hitting someone.

• Frostbite can strike in a very short time, especially with children. That’s because they lose body heat quickly, sometimes in as little as 20 minutes. Dress kids warmly, but don’t overbundle. That can cause sweating, which speeds the loss of body heat. Also, discourage kids from eating snow, because it lowers body temperature—which can decrease resistance to frostbite.

Check out The Weimer Group today. We offer a broad range of services to meet your commercial and personal insurance needs. Whether it’s a homeowners policy or coverage for a piece of machinery, we can shop the marketplace and find an insurance policy that fits your needs and your budget. Financial security and peace of mind, that’s what you will find with The Weimer Group.

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Americans say, ‘Let the sun shine in’

2010-01-25T07:59:00.000-08:00

It’s warm, it’s bright, it’s all around us—and most of us think we should use more of it. It’s the sun.

According to the independent polling firm Kelton Research, 92 percent of Americans think developing solar power is important, and 77 percent believe the government should make it a national priority. Approval of solar power crosses traditional political lines, with 94 percent of Democrats, 93 percent of independents, and 89 percent of Republicans in agreement.

Seventy percent of participants in the polling said they hope to use more solar power for their homes in the next five years. Only 3 percent said they do so right now. Seventy-four percent say they’d like to know more about solar power alternatives

At The Weimer Group we’re proud of the communities in which we live and work. Our offices are involved in recycling and Going Green efforts. We are committed to give back to the communities that make our success possible. Contact us today and see what separates us from other insurance agencies.

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Reasons to buy a new car

2010-01-23T06:54:00.000-08:00

When the going gets tough, the tough go shopping.

CarMax, the country’s largest used-car retailer, conducted a survey in August 2009 that asked 500 women ages 18 and up what life event would most likely prompt them to buy a car.

Their options were: a new job, retirement, pregnancy, a divorce, children leaving home, or children learning to drive.

Overall, 60 percent responded that getting a new job (37 percent), or retiring (23 percent) would be most likely to get them into a new vehicle. Among females ages 18-34, getting a new job led the list (44 percent), with pregnancy close behind (41 percent).

While you are shopping for a new car, shop for your car insurance too! Many companies provide discounts for multiple policies, anti-theft devices, anti-lock brakes and good drivers. Contact us today and start your saving!

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Workplace Phrases

2010-01-20T12:04:00.000-08:00

During one of office meetings, our VP David Beck presented some interesting workplace phrases he found on the net. Check these out!

Getting along with people sometimes requires speaking their language, especially in the workplace. One of the ways employees try to emphasize their smartness is with specialized vocabulary. Due to the nature of a lot of people’s work, technical language and terminology often is necessary, but buzzwords tend to make you sound pretentious. On the other hand, if you are working on a team full of buzzword-addicted co-workers, you’ll need to fit in.
Here are some explanations for not-so-common workplace lingo, so next time you are at the water cooler or in a meeting, you’ll understand what’s going on:

Boil the Ocean: This scope is too big to do in one project. Break it up into more than one. We often hear, "We’re not trying to boil the ocean here. We just need to…" when the client is trying to keep costs down and avoid an overly ambitious project scope.
Drink the Kool-Aid: To enthusiastically perform a task or follow a leader without knowing how this may affect you, or to buy the "company line" without question. In business, you may hear someone say, "He drank the Kool-Aid," when they mean, "He has been thoroughly trained in the program and we have his unconditional support," or "He is on board with our strategy." In political commentary, it is used to imply that people who disagree with you have been brainwashed or are under the influence of drugs.
Going Native: This is what happens when a consultant stops acting like a consultant and starts thinking they are part of the client organization. If you aren’t willing to go somewhere else, go ahead and apply for a permanent job. You aren’t providing the same value you were in the beginning.

Greenfield Instance: Clean, new installation of an application without customizations, configuration, or data.
Holistic: A big picture view or a solution that includes upstream and downstream impacts. Whatever it means, it’s a great consulting word and we use it a lot.

Paradigm: The perspective or view you have of a situation. For example, "When ownership of our order fulfillment project moved from Operations to Sales, it caused a paradigm shift that resulted in a whole new project strategy and approach."
Running in parallel: Processing normal operating data through two systems simultaneously to compare performance and output. When a client is feeling particularly paranoid about a new system his consultants have developed or implemented, even after exhaustive testing and training, we sometimes recommend running the new system in parallel with the old for a short period.

Strawman: First draft of a solution or proposal intended to provoke discussion. It is an object, document, person, or argument that temporarily stands in for, and is intended to get "knocked down," by something more substantial.

Talking to the Dog: Thinking it through by talking it through out loud. You’ll often hear engineers and programmers say they finally solved a problem by "talking to the dog."

Use Case: A particular circumstance or situation in which the solution would be used. For example, when designing a system, the engineer will refer to all the "Use Cases" that have been documented to determine if his solution will be effective in each situation.
White paper: An authoritative report or guide published to share technical or business information, particularly related to solving common problems. Writing white papers is a great way for consultants to get exposure in their industry and develop a reputation for expertise.

Wireframe: Simple pictures that show a proposed user interface, often used by business analysts to communicate expectations to users and developers.

Christine Lambden and Casey Conner of Consulting Stance teach consulting and interviewing skills workshops and seminars.

Rake your roof

2010-01-18T09:27:00.000-08:00

Like air conditioners in July, roof rakes are a red-hot commodity come winter.

Roof rakes are essentially a cutting blade mounted on an aluminum pole that reaches up to 22 feet. The rake helps you clear snow buildup and ice dams from your eves and gables before they cause water to back up inside your home. During the winter months, our office receives calls about the water damage done by the ice backing up into a person’s home. The damage can be prevented by using a roof rake and removing the snow and ice before they start to melt and cause water damage.

Shop now for a rake at your local hardware or home center, or buy online from a specialty retailer.

Contact us today for a complete analysis of your personal or commercial insurance. The Weimer Group, with offices in Perkasie and Harleysville, is prepared to provide you with a no cost, no obligation review and comparison of your insurance.

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What is Insurance?

2010-01-13T11:44:00.001-08:00

Simply stated, it is protection against a financial loss. There are several types of risks covered by a policy for day-to-day living:

Auto accidents
Flood
Death
Identity theft
Fire

There are four general types of insurance covered by The Weimer Group:

Auto: Financial loss protection if you have an auto accident with coverage for:

Property
Liability
Medical
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist

Home: Financial loss protection for fire or weather-related destruction, in two forms:

Actual Cash Value: Value of replacement costs or less depreciation
Replacement Cost: Covers labor, materials, and replacement service costs without a deduction for depreciation cost

Life: Financial loss protection for a beneficiary after a loved-one’s death. Available in two forms:

Term Insurance: Coverage for a specified period of time
Cash Value Insurance: Combination of death benefit and cash value component

Commercial: Financial loss protection against business-related risks, including:

Injured Workers
Equipment and building destruction
Liability

The Weimer Group is a firm of proven professionals, caring and conscientious people; the kind of people you can depend on.

We have a commitment to maintain a high standard of excellence in al that we do and to establish a firm relationship of mutual trust and service with each of our clients. With offices in Harleysville and Perkasie, contact us today.

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Three simple words (tenfold) for a better life

2010-01-07T07:37:00.000-08:00

Improving your life begins with your attitude. You don’t need subliminal tapes or hypnosis. Just try using some of these three-word phrases more often:

• I thank you.

• Please forgive me.

• I trust you.

• Let me help.

• I believe you.

• I forgive you.

• Maybe you’re right.

• Count on me.

• I understand you.

• Go for it.

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Unlock your creativity with these abstractions

2010-01-04T11:40:00.001-08:00

The key to innovation and creativity is to train yourself to look at questions from different angles. Opening your mind can be hard to do at first, so here’s an exercise from the book Warmups For Meeting Leaders, by Sue Bianchi, Jan Butler, and David Richey (Pfeiffer & Co.).

Every once a while, ask yourself some offbeat questions like these:

1. What shape is a wish?

2. What would happiness look like if it were something physical?

3. What color best represents today?

4. What does blue taste like?

5. What does a rainbow feel like?

6. What color is the smell of your favorite dessert?

7. What is the distance of your life so far?

8. What is your favorite sense?

The Weimer Group wishes you a healthy and prosperous 2010. Contact us to today to review your insurance to start saving.

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Why the calendar year begins on Jan. 1

2010-01-01T03:45:00.000-08:00

Can you blame Julius Caesar for your New Year’s Day hangover? Probably not, but the idea of beginning the New Year on Jan. 1 did originate with the first Roman Emperor. Caesar designated that day as the New Year in 153 B.C. because that’s when Rome’s two ruling consuls were chosen.

The so-called Julian calendar remained in standard use throughout the Middle Ages, although many European countries chose to start their calendar year on different days to commemorate various Christian holidays, such as Christmas or Easter.

By the 16th Century it was clear that the Julian calendar needed to be reformed. Pope Gregory XIII chose a calendar devised by Italian astronomer and philosopher Aloysius Lilius in 1582.

By that time most western European countries had already adopted Jan. 1 as the start of the New Year, but the Gregorian calendar itself was accepted at different times by different nations.

Russia didn’t abandon the Julian calendar for the Gregorian until after the October Revolution in 1917.

The Weimer Group is prepared to provide you with a no cost, no obligation review and comparison of your insurance. Contact us today and start saving in 2010.

Three simple words (tenfold) for a better life

2009-12-31T07:02:00.001-08:00

Improving your life begins with your attitude. You don’t need subliminal tapes or hypnosis. Just try using some of these three-word phrases more often:

• I thank you.

• Please forgive me.

• I trust you.

• Let me help.

• I believe you.

• I forgive you.

• Maybe you’re right.

• Count on me.

• I understand you.

• Go for it.

The Weimer Group is a firm of proven professionals, caring and conscientious people; the kind of people you can depend on. With offices in Perkasie and Harleysville we are here to help you tailor a homeowner insurance plan that protects your home and is offered at a competitive price. Contact us today!

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Starting Your Vehicle in Cold Weather

2009-12-23T08:10:00.001-08:00

The Car Care Council warns that the majority of engine wear occurs during and right after cold starting your car. When the engine is left to rest overnight, oil seeps away from vital parts, leaving them vulnerable to damage. During cold weather, oil thickens and takes longer to reach the entire engine. You can avoid damage by taking a few simple precautions.

· Allow the engine to idle for about five minutes before driving.

· Don’t race the engine when cold or make abrupt starts.

· Make sure your oil is fresh and change it at the manufacturer’s suggested intervals.

· Check the antifreeze to ensure protection at low temperatures.

Peg Hoff, Personal Lines Department Manager

P: (215) 257-9171 F: (215) 257-0400

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This email contains PRIVILEGED and CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION intended only for the use of the recipient named above. The information may be protected by state and federal laws, including, without limitation, the provisions of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which prohibit unauthorized disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any use or dissemination of this information is strictly prohibited. If you have received this email in error, please notify Peg Hoff by reply email at the address provided above and delete this message and any attachments immediately. Thank you.

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Winter Solstice Today

2009-12-22T10:53:00.001-08:00

The winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, marks the astronomical start of winter. This year the first day of winter is TODAY 12/22.

There are many myths, celebrations and beliefs that surround the winter solstice. The ancient Celts believed that on the winter solstice, the sun stood still for 12 days. Since it was the shortest day of the year, the Celts were afraid the sun would not return. To banish evil spirits and to lure the sun to return, they lit a yule log on the first day of winter and burned it for 12 hours. in more modern times, it is the reason for parties and celebrations. Even better, the days start to get longer from here on out (YEAH) and we enjoy more sunligh each day.

Posted via web from Weimer Insurance's Posterous

Greetings from The Weimer Group

2009-12-21T11:20:00.000-08:00

Thank you for your business, you mean the world to us! Wishing you health, happiness, and a prosperous New Year.

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Why do I need Flood Insurance?

2009-12-21T08:44:00.001-08:00

Many clients are surprised to find out their homeowners policies exclude damages caused by floods. They are also surprised to learn federal disaster assistance does not pay for damages. Assistance comes in the form of a low interest loan to help cover flood damage, not compensation of for your losses. Even then, those loans are only available if the president formally declares a disaster.

Flooding occurs in low-to-moderate risk areas as well as in high-risk areas. Studies show that 30% of all flood insurance claims come from areas with little flood risk. Poor drainage systems, rapid accumulation of rainfall, snowmelt, and broken water mains can all result in flood.

What is a flood?

In simple terms, a flood is an excess of water on land that is normally dry. It is generally a temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land area or of two or more properties (at least one of which is your property).

It can be from an overflow of inland or tidal waters, unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source, and a mudflow.

On Saturday December 19, 2009, the Senate passed a Defense Appropriations bill which also contained language extending the NFIP through February 28, 2010. This measure was signed into law by President Obama. We will keep you informed as the new extension deadline approaches.

The Weimer Group wants to be there for you in the event you suffer damage from a flood. We offer you the peace of mind of having coverage from Selective Insurance that is more affordable than you may think. Our knowledgeable staff can help tailor a flood insurance policy for you. Contact The Weimer Group today.

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Map out your finances

2009-12-17T13:04:00.001-08:00

Personal finance can seem murky and tortuous, and without a good road map it’s easy to feel lost.

The current recession makes careful handling of your money especially sensitive, so heed these tips as you make financial plans for the future:

• Invest. If you have extra money after paying the bills and funding your tax-deferred retirement plan to the max, think about investing the remainder rather than spending it. In the long run, you’re likely to find compounding returns far more rewarding.

• Strengthen your financial relationship with your spouse. If you’re in a stable relationship with a spouse or partner, consider strategies like combining more of your assets, opening investment accounts for retirement purposes or your kids’ college costs, and diversifying your investment strategies. You don’t have to merge everything—remember that 401(k) and IRA plans can’t be combined—so you’ll still have some financial autonomy.

• Save for college. The right strategy to save for your children’s higher education depends on several factors: your tax bracket, the investment flexibility that you require, and the amount you have to save. You may think your kids can apply for financial aid, but remember that many colleges take education savings into account when calculating a family’s need for grants or loans. Explore 520 savings plans, Education IRAs, or taxable investment accounts.

• Protect yourselves. There’s no such thing as total job security, so financial advisers recommend an emergency fund. Calculate what your fixed expenses are. Take a look at the job market in your field so you can estimate how long you may be unemployed if you lose your job, and start making regular deposits into a dedicated “lost job” account.

The Weimer Group is a firm of proven professionals, caring and conscientious people; the kind of people you can depend on. With offices in Perkasie and Harleysville, contact us and find out why we are different.

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Rally the troops for great customer service

2009-12-10T07:59:00.001-08:00

Keeping employees motivated to consistently provide high-quality customer service is a monumental task for many companies. But it can be done.

Here are a few tips:

• Hire the right people. The rule is you either hire smart or manage tough. Hiring smart is better, but it requires you to know what you’re looking for and to recognize the skills and attitude you want. Look at experience, and listen to
your gut.

• Keep score. If you don’t measure performance, your team will be in perpetual warm-up mode. Let employees know what they’re being measured on and how it’s relevant to them, their customers, and the organization’s bottom line.

• Reward. Make sure you reward the desired outcome. For instance, if you want your salespeople to create relationships and long-term accounts, reward them with back-end commissions.

• Practice what you preach. If you want a motivated customer-service rep, you need to be motivated yourself first. Are you genuinely excited about the work your group produces? You need to love your customers, because if you’re not sincerely motivated yourself, you’ll never motivate other people to provide service excellence.

At The Weimer Group, it’s always a great day! Our company family works together for the better of our clients, companies we represent and the people we work with. Find out what separates us from your current auto insurance company or agency. You’ll be glad to make the switch to The Weimer Group. With offices in Harleysville and Perkasie, we are able to create an insurance program that fits your needs.

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Older workers grow stronger in labor market

2009-12-10T07:53:00.001-08:00

Better health and longer life spans, paired with a precarious economy, mean older Americans (55+) will represent most of the growth in the U.S. job market for the next few years, according to the Pew Research Center. In 2009, 40 percent of Americans 55 or older were working or looking for work, the highest percentage since 1961—while workers ages 16 to 24 represented 57 percent of the workforce, down from 66 percent in 2000.

But it’s not all about panic caused by self-destructing retirement accounts, Pew notes: Older workers are generally happier, and stay employed more for social reasons than financial pressures.

Approximately 54 percent of employees 65 and older describe themselves as “completely” satisfied with their jobs, whereas only 29 percent of the 18–64 age group said the same.

Eureka! The accidental origins of some famous products

2009-12-02T12:47:00.001-08:00

Some well-known products and inventions weren’t the result of careful research and planning. They were accidents that someone with a creative mind spotted some potential in. Imagine your life without . . .

• Potato chips. In 1853, a chef named George Crum in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., grew frustrated by a diner who kept sending his potato crisps back, complaining they were soft and soggy. Crum sliced some potatoes as thin as he could, fried them in oil, and sent them out. The customer loved them—and a new snack food was born.

• The Slinky. A naval engineer named Richard James was looking for a way to hold navigation instruments steady while a ship was in motion. He began experimenting with springs, hoping to use them as shock absorbers, but when he saw one of his prototypes drop gracefully from a shelf onto a table, he had a different idea. Introduced as a toy in 1945, the Slinky (named by James’ wife) became a best-seller.

• Corn flakes. The Kellogg brothers were searching for healthy foods to feed patients at the Battle Creek Sanitarium in Michigan. They inadvertently left some boiled grain on the stove for a few days, but decided to try putting the stale remains through rollers to make dough. It turned into flakes instead, and they decided to try toasting them. After a bit of development, they came up with a tasty food that patients enjoyed, and in 1906 one of the brothers, Will Keith Kellogg, founded the Kellogg’s food company.

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Be thankful you’re not moving there!

2009-11-26T13:10:00.000-08:00

The most expensive ZIP code in the country, in terms of home cost, is Alpine, N.J. (07620). Forbes magazine reports that the median asking price of a house there is $4.14 million (down 23 percent from the previous year). No. 2 is Atherton, Calif. (94027), with a median asking price of $3.85 million; that’s followed by New York City’s West Village neighborhood (10014), where home sellers are looking for a median price of $3.5 million.

At The Weimer Group, we are located in Harleysville and Perkasie, PA. Our clients are our number one priority. We work for you. Contact us today by visiting our website at www.TheWeimerGroup.com.

Take care of your pet’s health during the holiday season

2009-11-20T06:40:00.001-08:00

Pet safety is especially important during the holidays, with so many potential hazards hidden within all the excitement.

Don’t risk your cat’s or dog’s health—watch out for these dangers:

• Trees. Be sure your tree is solidly secured so Prince or Princess can’t pull it over and get injured.

• Tinsel and ribbon. It’s bright and attractive to pets—too attractive. Eating tinsel or ribbons could cause them to suffer an obstructed digestive track, leading to vomiting, dehydration, and possible surgery.

• Noisemakers. Horns, kazoos, and other fun instruments around the New Year can startle and upset pets. In their fear they can cause damage to your home and possibly injure themselves or a nearby human. Be sensitive to all noise and excitement that might panic an animal.

• Holiday plants. Traditional plants like holly and mistletoe can cause stomach and heart problems for pets. Go for lifelike artificial plants instead.

• Electrical cords. Animals chewing on cords can injure themselves and can increase the risk of a fire or electrical shock.

• The garbage can. Don’t leave trash cans open. Take steps to ensure pets can’t get into your garbage in search of tasty treats that might not be good for them.

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Tea time! It’s good for you

2009-11-12T12:54:00.001-08:00

Drinking three cups of tea a day can have important health benefits, according to doctors and researchers. Among its potential advantages, tea may help in
these areas:
• Cancer. Tea, especially the green variety, has been in shown in some studies to be linked to a decreased risk of breast cancer, as well as prostate and other cancers. It seems to stimulate the production of certain enzymes that detoxify carcinogens and reduce inflammation.
• Obesity. Some studies with animals have suggested that green tea and oolong tea may contribute to better weight management. The caffeine in tea might boost the body’s metabolism and help the body burn off calories from fat.
• Brain activity. Green tea (again!) may help prevent cognitive impairment among older people, as suggested by some epidemiological studies.
• Heart disease. Antioxidants in tea can help the body better regulate its insulin production, which can aid in preventing diabetes and heart disease. In addition, tea can reduce risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

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November is American Diabetes Month

2009-11-10T08:18:00.001-08:00

Nearly 24 million Americans have diabetes, while another 57 million-including 2 million 12- to 19-year-olds – have “pre-diabetes,” which puts them at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, the most common form of the disease.

Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and was previously known as juvenile diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar (glucose), starches and other food into energy needed for daily life.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and many more are unaware they are at high risk. Some groups have a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes than others. Type 2 diabetes is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, as well as the aged population.

In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use glucose for energy. When you eat food, the body breaks down all of the sugars and starches into glucose, which is the basic fuel for the cells in the body. Insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, it can lead to diabetes complications.

Diabetes is a serious illness, with complications like stroke, heart disease, kidney disease, and amputations. During November (and throughout the year), the American Diabetes Association conducts activities to raise awareness about diabetes. For more information, go to www.diabetes.org

Providing and obtaining life insurance for people with diabetes can be difficult, at The Weimer Group we are able to search national companies that may offer coverage to certain types of situations.

About us: At The Weimer Group, our agency continues to operate in the tradition established years ago – as a team of knowledgeable, caring professionals dedicated to providing quality insurance and financial products. Visit our Virtual Insurance Office and see what sets us apart from the rest. Contact our office today for a quote and let us work for you.

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Guidelines for helping struggling employees

2009-11-05T10:24:00.001-08:00

Let’s face it: Some employees simply don’t realize that they’re not doing their jobs well. You’ve got to tell them the truth without shattering their self-confidence.

Here are some tips:

• Be prepared for resistance. Don’t be surprised to hear employees overestimate the quality of their work. Illustrate your case with evidence, such as mistakes the employee has made on projects, missed deadlines, and miscommunication.

• Show them examples of good work. Establish concrete, clear expectations of the level of quality that you seek in the work that the employee does.

• Focus on measurable performance. Set benchmarks that you’d like the employee to achieve by certain deadlines. Come up with a schedule that you both agree on, and make sure you include time for periodic updates that allow both of you the chance to discuss the employee’s performance.

• Offer training. If you want an employee to improve, make certain that he or she has the means for shaping up. Give them permission to get more training.

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Don’t let one failure turn you into a failure

2009-11-04T07:23:00.001-08:00

If Donald Trump can repeatedly file for bankruptcy and not be considered a failure, no one should claim defeat. Though everyone faces setbacks in life, few of us should really call ourselves “losers.” Part of success is dealing with, and ultimately overcoming, our failures. Keep your confidence and follow this advice:

• Change your perspective. Don’t think of every unsuccessful attempt as a failure. Few people succeed at everything the first time; most of us attain our goals only through repeated effort. Take the negativity out of failure by viewing it as a learning experience. And do your best to learn everything you can about what happened and why.

• Try new approaches. Persistence is important, but repeating the same actions over and over again, hoping that this time you’ll succeed, probably won’t get you any closer to your objective. Look at your previous unsuccessful efforts and decide what to change. Keep making adjustments, using your experience as a guide.

• Define the problem better. Analyze the situation—what you want to achieve, what your strategy is, why it didn’t work, and so on. Ask yourself if you’re really viewing the problem correctly. If you need money, for example, one option is to increase revenue—but you could also try cutting expenses. Think about what you’re really trying to do.

• Don’t be a perfectionist. You may have an idealized vision of what success will look and feel like. Though that can be motivational, it may not be realistic. Succeeding at one goal won’t eliminate all your problems. Be clear on what will satisfy your objectives, and don’t obsess about superficial details.

• Don’t label yourself. You may have failed, but you’re not a failure until you stop trying. Think of yourself as someone still striving toward a goal, and you’ll be better able to maintain your patience and perseverance for the long haul.

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Fight the flu: Tips for staying healthy this season

2009-11-02T07:13:00.000-08:00

t’s not just another flu season this year. The outbreak of the H1N1 virus has everyone nervous, but the fact remains that even the “normal” flu kills close to 36,000 people every year. You can protect yourself, and those around, from serious illness by following some basic health precautions:
• Wash your hands. The flu virus can live for up to two hours on doorknobs, desks, phones, keyboards, and other surfaces. The best protection is to wash your hands frequently, using soap and water (or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer). Soap up your hands and rub them vigorously for 15-20 seconds, then rinse well and dry your hands with a paper towel. Use the towel to turn off the faucet in public restrooms to avoid picking up germs or viruses after you’re all clean.

• Cover up. When you feel a sneeze or a cough coming on, don’t just cover up your face with one or both hands. Grab a tissue and discard it immediately, and then wash your hands to avoid spreading anything contagious to others. In general, try to keep your hands away from your face. Your eyes, mouth, and nose are prime entry points for viruses you may inadvertently pick up.

• Drink plenty of fluids. Water and juice help your body eliminate toxins that have been filtered by your liver and kidneys. But don’t drink alcohol—it can weaken your immune system as well as dehydrate you.

• Get some exercise. Aerobic exercise delivers more oxygen to your lungs and blood, and it helps your body pump more blood throughout your system. This will strengthen your ability to fight off infection.

• Get enough rest. If you’re overtired or stressed, your immune system will suffer. Practice some relaxation exercises, such as meditation, and get at least eight hours of sleep a night, especially when you’re not feeling just right.

Cell phones dangerous? Watch for these symptoms

2009-10-30T07:37:00.001-07:00

Doctors are calling it “cubital tunnel syndrome,” but it’s more commonly known as “cell phone elbow,” and experts say it’s the second most common nerve compression syndrome in the upper extremities after carpal tunnel syndrome.

Symptoms include tingling, burning, aching, or numbness in the lower half of the arm (the ulnar forearm—the region between elbow and wrist facing away from the body when you bend the arm to touch your shoulder).

The symptoms usually arise after prolonged cell phone use. The easiest way to get rid of it? Switch your cell phone to the other hand, or use a hands-free set. You could also just hang up.

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Start spreading the news: New Yorkers are stressed

2009-10-26T11:51:00.001-07:00

You think you’re stressed? New York office workers say they’re more stressed than employees anywhere else. At least that’s what 74 percent of them said in a survey conducted this year. One reason for their problems: neck and shoulder pain caused by stress and overwork (53 percent). Another cause: the financial effects of the recession (cited by 62 percent).

How do they cope financially? By cutting back. Fifty-seven percent have reduced “self-pampering” indulgences (like massages and manicures); 48 percent are clipping coupons and watching for sales; and 45 percent are limiting the number of days they buy their lunch.

Hopefully playing against the Phillies in the World Series won’t be too stressful, especially when the Phils win!

At The Weimer Group our primary objective is to provide each of our clients with financial security and peace of mind by delivering personal solutions through one-on-one relationships. We would like to become a part of your insurance program, offering a complete analysis of your insurance needs. Contact us today to save $$$!

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Make a Difference Day is 10/24/2009

2009-10-21T07:42:00.001-07:00

Celebrate the 19th annual national day of neighbors helping neighbors. In 2008, 3 million people participated by making a difference in their community by helping others. Neighbors took part by clearing trash, fixing park fences, reset headstones in cemeteries, planting bulbs, or collecting toys, books for the sick and those in need. The ideas are endless.

Check out the following link for more information.

www.makeadifferenceday.com

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Halloween Safety Tips

2009-10-13T12:17:00.001-07:00

It is that time of year again. Scarecrows begin invading front porches, jack’o lanterns start popping up in every window and the preferred method of transportation is a hayride. Autumn has arrived and Halloween is here. Here are some tips for a healthy, happy Halloween:

Trick-or-Treaters

Carry a flashlight.
Stay on sidewalks, do not run and always obey traffic signals.
Stay in familiar neighborhoods and only approach homes that are well lit.
Wear reflective clothing.
Do not wear masks while walking house-to-house.
Make sure your costume does not drag and only carry flexible props (eg., swords, wands, broomsticks, etc.).
Steer clear of unfamiliar animals/pets.

Parents

An adult should accompany young children.
Purchase only flame-retardant costumes.
A safe alternative to pumpkin carving is pumpkin painting.
If your children trick-or-treat on their own be sure that:
- They wear a watch
- They carry a cell phone to call home.
- They know where to reach you if you’re not home.
- They travel in a group.
- You explain the difference between a “trick” and vandalism.

Homeowners

Use small flashlights in jack’o lanterns rather than candles.
Offer a well lit, clear path to your door.
Keep animals inside and away from trick-or-treaters.

Drivers

Slow down. Children will be running everywhere.
Partygoers should always elect a designated driver.

Treats

Tell children to bring candy home to be inspected before consuming anything.
Look at the wrapping carefully and pitch anything that looks suspect.
If you discover a treat that has been tampered with, contact the proper authorities.

This information has been brought to you by The Weimer Group. With offices in Harleysville and Perkasie, find out why many of your neighbors purchase their home and automobile insurance with our agency. Find out why we are locally voted One of the Best insurance agencies.

Fire Protection is a Family Responsibility – Part 3

2009-10-10T11:36:00.000-07:00

Pre-planning for Fire

Do you have a plan?

Family members discuss exit plans.
Plan escape routes.
Plan secondary way out of home.
Keep bedroom doors closed at night.
Plan meeting place outside.
Call fire department.

My Fire Inspection Checklist

The Weimer Group is committed to providing our clients information that helps prevent one of the most difficult tasks we undertake as insurance agents – receiving a claim for fire damage. Contact The Weimer Group for your home insurance needs where getting a quotes is as easy as 1-2-3. With offices in Harleysville and Perkasie, we are here to serve you. Find out why we are different from other agencies.

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Fire Protection is a Family Responsibility – Part 2

2009-10-08T11:05:00.000-07:00

Electricity

Did you know:

In 2008, U.S. fire departments responded to 386,500 home fires. These fires killed 2,755 civilians. Eighty-three percent of all fire deaths resulted from home fires.

Someone was injured in a home fire every 40 minutes and roughly eight people died in home fires every day during 2008.

A fire department responded to a home fire every 81 seconds.

Almost two-thirds of reported home fire deaths in 2003-2006 resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

About 1/3 of home fires and deaths happened in the months of December, January and February.

Cooking continues to be the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries.

Smoking materials caused one of every four home fire deaths.

The kitchen is the leading area of origin for home fires. However, bedrooms and living/family rooms are the leading areas of origin for home fire deaths.

Electricity

Is the proper size fuse/circuit breaker (15 amps for lighting circuits) provided in each socket of the fuse/circuit breaker box? Do you use a new fuse – never substitutes – when replacement is necessary?
Do you make sure circuits are never overloaded?
Are all appliances checked periodically to be certain they are in good operating condition?
Do you make certain that extension cords are never run under rugs, nailed to building surface, hooked over nails or spliced? Are appliance and other electrical cords in good condition?
Is your TV antenna/satellite dish properly secured and equipped with a properly grounded lightning arrestor?

Fire Protection is a Family Responsibility – Part 1

2009-10-06T08:29:00.000-07:00

Heating & Cooking

Do you realize that over half of each year’s fire victims, men, women, and children, are killed by fires in their own homes? This is more than those killed by all other fires combined.

Every minute of every day one American home somewhere in the US is destroyed or damaged by fire resulting in injury or death. Especially vulnerable are the aged and children.

Every fire in a home represents a failure – a failure to identify a possible cause of loss and failure to take steps to correct them.

Many times these deaths occur when some simple rules of safety are violated or ignored. Smoking in bed, allowing children to play with matches and leaving children alone in the house can be causes of disaster.

The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) reported:

In 2006, heating equipment was involved in an estimated 64,100 reported home structure fires, 540 civilian deaths, 1,400 civilian injuries, and $943 million in direct property damage.
In 2006 heating equipment fires accounted for 16% of all reported home fires (second behind cooking) and 21% of home fire deaths.
More than half of all heating related fire deaths in 2003-2006 resulted from fires in December, January, and February.
Space heaters result in far more fires and losses than central heating devices and have higher risks relative to usage.
Fixed or portable space heaters were involved in 4% of the home fires and 17% of the home fire deaths.
Most of the space heater fires were caused by the space heater being too close to things that could burn.

Heating & Cooking

Are you careful not to leave the stove unattended when cooking with grease, oils, etc.?
Is your heating equipment checked and cleaned annual by a qualified technician?
Are furnaces, boilers, stoves and smoke pipes (chimney connectors) installed with sufficient clearance to combustible walls and ceilings and are they in good repair?
Do you have an portable heaters in your home? Are they located in a safe area and properly maintained?
Do you have a woodburning stove in your home? Is it properly installed with adequate clearances from floors, walls, and ceilings, etc.?
Do you make sure there are no curtains, drapes, clothes or furniture near any heater, stove, fireplace or wood stove in the house?
Do you have the chimney cleaned and checked before each heating season to insure against chimney fire?

Fire Prevention Week October 4-10, 2009

2009-10-04T10:44:00.000-07:00

Fires kill more Americans each year than all natural disasters combined. But fire doesn’t have to be deadly.

Know the four P’s of family safety.

Prevent house fires. Avoid storing items that catch fire easily near furnaces, stoves or fireplaces. Beware of the hazards of portable heaters, outdoor grills and gasoline. Teach children never to play with matches and lighters.

Protect your family by installing smoke alarms in each bedroom and on each level of your home. Check batteries monthly, and change them annually. Check the test button every month.

Prepare for fire by creating a family disaster plan. Develop at least two fire escape routes out of your home. Plan to run to a safe meeting place away from immediate danger, and then call 9-1-1. Once you’re out of the house, don’t go back for any reason.

Practice a home fire drill at least twice a year. Teach children to stop, drop and roll if their clothing catches fire. Stress the need to crawl low and go should a room fill with smoke.

At The Weimer Group you can depend on us for expert guidance in protecting your insurance interests as well as providing you valuable information to protect your family and property. With locations in Harleysville and Perkasie, we are here to serve you!

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Life insurers infused more then $56 billion into the U.S. economy in 2007 through death benefits paid to beneficiaries

2009-10-02T07:12:00.000-07:00

LIAM Fun Facts

Life insurers paid more than $19 billion in federal, state, and local government taxes in 2007, not including taxes paid by the people the industry employs
The life insurance industry employs about 1.2 million people nationwide
Life insurers have $4.3 trillion invested in the U.S. economy, making them one of the largest sources of capital in the nation
In 1953, Walt Disney borrowed from his life insurance, sold his vacation home, and borrowed money from employees to fund Disneyland, his first theme park
Famous retailer J.C. Penney borrowed from his life insurance policies to help meet the company payroll following the 1929 stock market crash
Life insurance cash values serve as a source of available capital to individuals, especially when credit is difficult to obtain
Permanent insurance, unique from term, offers access to cash values, loans, flexibility, guaranteed coverage, stable premiums, and tax advantages
Households that purchase a combination of both term and permanent insurance have better coverage than those that rely only on either term or permanent policies
48 million U.S. households (44%) believe they do not have enough life insurance
75% of new deferred variable annuities are sold with some type of guaranteed living benefit
1 in 5 retirees uses individually purchased annuities for income
Individual life insurance owners plan to use that insurance, more than any other source, to provide for their families in the event of their premature death
Owners of life insurance say they purchase insurance to cover burial and final expenses, as well as for income replacement
4 in 5 owners of permanent life insurance and nonqualified annuities are middle to lower class
Most new and existing individual life policies are permanent rather than term insurance
Following the 9/11 attacks, the Victim Compensation Fund valued the future earning potential of victims at nearly 16 times income
The average person owns less life insurance (3.6 time income) than they believe they should own (5.6 times income)
Nearly 4 in 5 U.S. households own some type of life insurance
Life insurance paid out more than $56 billion in death benefits and $70 billion in annuity benefits in 2007

Life Insurance is for those who live, not for those who die. Contact The Weimer Group with offices in Harleysville and Perkasie.

The Weimer Group & Perkasie Fire Company Bring Fire Safety Education to a New Level

2009-09-29T07:02:00.000-07:00

Perkasie Fire Company will kick-off Fire Prevention Month with their annual Open House on Thursday, October 8th, 2009. Come out and see the "Kids Fire Safety House" sponsored by The Weimer Group. This type of trailer is one of only a few in Bucks and Montgomery counties Pennsylvania, and provides a great hands-on fire safety experience for kids.

This trailer provides an opportunity for children in our area to see first-hand what fire safety is all about. Kids can get inside the trailer with firefighters, who can talk about and demonstrate fire safety. The trailer, Mobile Concepts by Scotty Trailer Co, specializes in fire safety for kids. There is a living room, kitchen, and bedroom area with second floor exit. It comes complete with ductwork to demonstrate how smoke fills a room, a cozy fireplace (don't worry, it's electric), a kitchen, a door that becomes warm to the touch (simulating fire on the other side), video monitoring, in addition, there is also a TV viewing area on the outside of the trailer to show fire safety movies to those waiting in line.

Life Insurance and Women

2009-09-28T06:47:00.000-07:00

Women today have more lifestyle and career choices than ever before. However, whether a woman is married or single; a stay-at-home mom or climbing the corporate ladder, most are underinsured. No matter what lifestyle a woman chooses, it is important to know that any lifestyle is costly to replace.

The estimated annual cost to hire someone to cook, clean, and take care of children full-time is $40,000. Although stay-at-home moms do not earn money, there is a cost associated with their duties should something happen to them. It is not an easy subject to talk about, but it is an important one to consider, especially since many families would not be supported by one income alone with the additional childcare and housekeeping expenses.

Women without children still have reasons to take out a life insurance policy. This policy may take care of burial and funeral expenses, estate taxes and outstanding debts. Whatever the case, the policy can provide valuable assistance to their families as they cope with these costs.

Whatever the situation, life insurance is a necessity, and more affordable than you may think. Life insurance falls into two categories, term and permanent.

TERM

Financial Protection for 10-30 years
Greatest coverage for lowest premium

PERMANENT

Long-term Financial Protection
Premiums accumulate a cash value that grows tax-deferred and can be borrowed against.

To find the best policy for your personal needs, visit our virtual insurance agency. We're The Weimer Group, a Trusted Choice Independent Insurance Agency, with offices in Perkasie and Harleysville, Pennsylvania. We work for YOU.