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How Much Insurance Do You Need?

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The answer to this question is important, because it determines how well your policy will protect you in the event of a catastrophe.

Dwelling Insurance

The value of your home for insurance purposes is the cost of labor and materials to rebuild it exactly as it is today. Many individuals mistakenly think this cost is the market value, tax value or the amount of their mortgage.

Contact your insurance company representative, who has up-to-date information about building materials and costs in your location. Discuss features of your home, including other structures on the property such as a detached garage, tool shed or barn so you can get an accurate estimate of the replacement cost of your home and other buildings.

Personal Property

The best way to determine the value of your possessions is to complete an inventory. Doing so will help you get a claim settled more quickly, verify losses for your federal income tax return and identify high-value items you may want to insure for more than your policy limits. Use the Inventory Possessions Work Sheet as a guide.

Consider photographing your possessions. Store a copy of the inventory, receipts, photographs and a hard copy of important electronic documents in a safe deposit box at your financial institution or in another secure location away from your residence. Another option is to scan the information to a disk and store it appropriately.

Get More For Your Money
  • Compare premiums
  • Raise your deductible
  • Ask about discounts
  • Consider group coverage
  • Review your policy annually

Previous Next: Choosing An Insurer