Newly Married? Important Insurance and Legal Documents to Save Now

November 26, 2025

Most couples spend the first weeks of marriage figuring out things like whose coffee style wins, which side of the bed belongs to whom, and how two different families do holidays. It is fun, chaotic, and full of learning. What usually doesn’t get discussed at first is paperwork. Not exactly romantic, but surprisingly important.

At some point, something small happens that reminds couples that paperwork matters. Maybe the doctor’s office asks for updated insurance. Maybe the bank asks for proof of name change. Maybe a car insurance rep needs beneficiary information right away. Moments like these make people realize how helpful it would have been to organize everything sooner.

So, here is a simple guide to make life a little easier for newly married couples.

Start with the marriage certificate

This one becomes the “key” to a lot of changes. It opens the door to updating names, insurance, bank accounts, and tax filing status. It is worth keeping the original somewhere safe and also scanning a copy so it is easy to find when someone asks for it unexpectedly.

If there is a name change, IDs need updating

Changing a last name takes more effort than most people expect. A few things usually need updating:

• Driver’s license or state ID
• Passport
• Social Security information

Scanning the updated documents helps avoid digging through drawers later.

Review health insurance

Many couples take a look at their coverage after marriage. Sometimes one partner has the better plan, or combining coverage saves money. It helps to keep:

• Current policy papers
• Digital insurance cards
• Provider phone numbers

It is amazing how often those papers are needed during stressful times.

Life insurance becomes part of the picture

No one likes thinking about worst-case scenarios, especially right after a wedding. But life insurance is an act of love and responsibility. Storing the policy and beneficiary information makes sure everything is clear if it is ever needed.

Home and car insurance too

Once couples live together or share a car, insurance companies need updated details. It is easier later if things like renters or homeowners insurance, auto insurance papers, and proof of valuable belongings are collected in one spot instead of scattered everywhere.

Financial documents and beneficiary details

Money looks different once two lives merge. Some couples join accounts. Others keep things separate. Whatever the setup, it is helpful to keep a record of things like:

• Bank info
• Retirement plans and investment details
• Mortgage or loan documents

This stuff can get confusing fast if it is not organized.

Estate planning might sound early… but it matters

Nobody wants to think about wills or medical decisions during the honeymoon stage. Still, life happens, and having things like a will or medical directive stored safely can protect the person you love most. It is one of those things you do hoping it never has to be used.

Where should everything go?

A lot of couples start out with good intentions and then end up stuffing these papers into random folders, drawers, or email attachments. The safest route is somewhere they can always access, even during emergencies, usually a secure digital vault for documents. It keeps things organized, private, and available when life throws a surprise.

A simple takeaway

Marriage brings a lot of joy and a little chaos. While sorting through insurance and legal papers might not feel urgent, it is one of those grown-up things that protects everything two people are building together. Once documents are updated and stored safely, it becomes one less thing to worry about and more energy can go back to enjoying married life.

What Happens If You Don’t Keep Your Insurance Info Updated?

November 19, 2025

Most of us buy insurance with good intentions. We sign the papers, file them away, and honestly, we don’t think much about them again. Life gets busy. Updating insurance info is the kind of task that quietly slips off the radar. But here’s the thing: life changes constantly, and your insurance doesn’t magically keep up.

If your policy stays the same while everything else in your life shifts around, you might end up with coverage that doesn’t match your situation anymore. And that usually shows up at the worst possible time.

Why Keeping Info Updated Actually Matters

Insurance companies depend on accurate details. They decide coverage and pricing based on the information you gave them at the start. If something meaningful changes and you don’t tell them, the policy may not reflect reality anymore.

Think about how often little changes happen: moving to a different place, adding someone new to the family, buying things you’d be upset to lose, fixing up your house, or even having changes at work. None of these moments seem “insurance-worthy” at the time, but they actually matter.

What Could Happen If Nothing Gets Updated

A lot of people assume that as long as premiums are paid, everything is fine. Unfortunately, insurance doesn’t exactly work that way.

1. Claims Might Not Go Smoothly

If something goes wrong and you file a claim, the insurer will check whether your information matches your real situation. If they find a big difference, the claim might get delayed, reduced, or rejected. For example, if your home is worth more because of renovations and you didn’t update the policy, the payout probably won’t cover the full damage.

2. You Might Not Have Enough Coverage

People often don’t realize their coverage is outdated until something happens. Maybe your family has grown, or you’ve bought more valuable items. A policy that once fit perfectly might not come close now.

3. The Policy Could Be Cancelled

Insurance companies expect major details to be accurate. If something important wasn’t updated, they can cancel the policy. In rare cases, they may even say it was never valid.

4. Renewal Might Become Expensive

Sometimes outdated details cause confusion during reviews. Even if the claim goes through, renewal might come with a higher price tag.

5. Stress Piles Up When You Least Want It

Insurance is supposed to offer relief during stressful times. Outdated information can turn that relief into more stress, more paperwork, more delays, and more frustration.

Things Worth Reviewing From Time to Time

It helps to check these once in a while:

• Where you live
• Changes in your family
• Any expensive new purchases
• Home improvements or upgrades
• Vehicle changes or new drivers
• Major health or job changes
• Beneficiaries

A simple yearly check is enough for most people.

Easy Ways to Keep Everything Updated

You don’t need to make this complicated. A few easy habits can help:

• Glance over your policies once a year.
• Whenever something big happens, just send a quick update.
• Keep all your insurance documents in one place so you don’t forget what you have.
• Make a short list of things that typically change over time.
• Ask the insurer when you’re unsure; they’re used to these questions.

Final Thoughts

Insurance is meant to support you when life gets tough, but it can only do that if the information behind the policy reflects your current situation. When details sit unchanged for too long, the coverage weakens and sometimes disappears when you need it most.

A few minutes of updating here and there can save you from a lot of trouble later. It doesn’t take much, but it makes a big difference when life throws something unexpected your way.

Updating Insurance and Documents During Major Life Changes

October 30, 2025

Life Keeps Moving

A new job, a move overseas, or the day someone finally retires all sound exciting. In the middle of packing boxes or filling out onboarding forms, it’s easy to forget the quieter side of change: the policies, records, and bits of paperwork that keep daily life running smoothly.

Missing an update here can cause small but annoying problems later. A wrong address on an insurance file, an expired policy, or a forgotten beneficiary can slow down a claim when it’s really needed

When Work Life Shifts

A new role often means new benefits, different coverage, and sometimes a short gap between plans. People tend to assume everything carries over automatically, but that’s rarely the case.

• Before leaving a company, check the exact date the old health plan ends.
• Ask the new employer when coverage begins; if there’s a gap, arrange a temporary plan.
• Look at personal policies to be sure the coverage amount still fits current income and family needs.
• Update names, addresses, and phone numbers across all accounts.
• Keep the older paperwork since it’s proof if a claim from that period ever comes up.

It’s a small chore during a busy week, but it prevents confusion later.

When a Move Crosses Borders

Relocating brings excitement, but every country plays by its own rules when it comes to insurance and legal documents. A policy that worked perfectly at home might be useless once abroad.

Before boarding the plane:

• Ask the insurer about international coverage and buy a global or expat plan if necessary.
• Re-draft wills or powers of attorney so they follow local laws.
• Tell banks and pension providers the new address since some freeze accounts if mail bounces back.
• Store digital copies of important papers in a secure online vault and let one trusted person know how to reach them in an emergency.

It takes a few emails and signatures, but it can save a lot of time and stress once the move is complete.

When Retirement Begins

Retirement changes how income and coverage work. Employer insurance usually ends, and new health options need to be arranged.

• Compare health plans designed for retirees or seniors.
• Review life insurance since sometimes a smaller policy makes more sense now.
• Gather pension statements and investment reports in one folder.
• Make sure wills and executors’ details are up to date.
• Keep digital and printed copies in one clearly labeled place.

A tidy file today makes life much easier tomorrow for both the retiree and their family.

Quick Review Checklist

A few questions worth asking after any big change:

1. Does current insurance still cover what’s needed?
2. Are beneficiaries correct and easy to contact?
3. Are legal and financial papers current?
4. Is everything backed up securely?
5. Has someone trustworthy been told how to access it?

If each answer is yes, everything is already in good shape.

Keeping It All Together

Loose papers and forgotten folders can turn into a real headache. A secure digital vault, such as InsureYouKnow, keeps all records in one encrypted space that can be opened from anywhere. It’s simple, private, and designed for moments exactly like these: job changes, relocations, and retirements.

Final Thoughts

Big life transitions come with excitement and responsibility. Updating insurance and personal documents may not feel urgent, but it protects the plans built over years of effort. With organized records and the right digital tools, the next chapter, wherever it leads, starts off clear and worry-free.

Seasonal Insurance Check-Up: Keep Your Coverage Up to Date

October 29, 2025

If you’ve ever opened an old folder and thought, “Wait, when did I even file this?”, you already get the point. Insurance paperwork has a way of sitting quietly until life outgrows it. People check their policies once a year, feel responsible for a minute, then forget about them. Sounds familiar, right?

Life, though, doesn’t wait. A new job pops up, someone moves, a baby arrives, or maybe there’s a home remodel that changes everything. Those small shifts can make old coverage feel out of step. By the next annual review, it’s easy to realize things don’t quite fit anymore.

Life Changes Faster Than Paperwork

Insurance is supposed to protect what matters now, not what mattered last spring. But most people never notice how fast their details drift. Maybe the car value has dropped, or a phone number changed, or the policy still lists an address that no one lives at. Tiny errors, but they matter when a claim appears.

A quick seasonal review keeps things real. It’s like glancing at your pantry before heading to the store, fast, practical, and you avoid buying what you already have.

How to Do a Seasonal Review Without Losing a Weekend

Step 1. Gather your stuff.

Pull together every policy: car, home, health, life. Keep them in one folder, digital or paper, so you’re not hunting later.

Step 2. Check the basics.

Look at names, addresses, contact numbers, and nominee info. If something looks off, fix it.

Step 3. Match it to real life.

Bought something big? Changed jobs? Maybe started freelancing? Adjust the coverage so it actually fits.

Step 4. Note payments and renewals.

Set a quick reminder on your phone. Late payments sneak up quietly.

Step 5. Keep copies safe.

A cloud folder and one printed set usually do the trick. Tell someone close where they are.

When to Check Even Sooner

Some moments don’t wait for the next season. Big life changes mean the file needs a look right away:

• Marriage or separation
• New house or sold property
• Moving cities
• Starting a business
• A new baby or dependent parent

If your life just shifted, your coverage should shift too.

Why Bother?

People who do this regularly sound calmer when things go wrong. They don’t waste time searching or wondering what’s covered. The habit keeps surprises small.

Here’s what they get out of it:

• Current coverage: Nothing outdated hiding in fine print.
• Fewer claim issues: Information is already right.
• Possible savings: You catch overlaps before paying twice.
• Less stress: Everyone knows where everything lives.

A little check four times a year adds up to peace of mind.

Make It Stick

Pick a date that already matters, your birthday month, tax season, the start of summer. Mark it as “insurance check-up” and actually do it. Once or twice and it’ll feel automatic.

The Bottom Line

Insurance only works when it keeps up with your life. A seasonal check-up isn’t overkill; it’s common sense. Fifteen minutes now can save weeks of frustration later, and that’s a trade anyone would take.

ACA Marketplace: Understanding the Upcoming Insurance Hikes

October 28, 2025

Imagine logging in to renew your health-insurance plan this November and discovering your monthly premium has nearly doubled — all because Congress couldn’t agree to fund the tax credits that have quietly kept your coverage affordable. That’s the stark reality for millions of Americans enrolled in the health insurance marketplaces under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Under the ACA, individuals and families who do not get health insurance from an employer or through a public program can shop at a federal or state-based “Marketplace.” Insurers offer plans in metal tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold)—with varying premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs. What keeps many of these plans affordable is the federal premium tax credit. If you qualify (mainly based on income as a share of the federal poverty level), you receive a subsidy that reduces the monthly premium you pay.

Because of this subsidy, many enrollees pay only a modest portion of what might otherwise cost thousands of dollars. The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) found that thanks to the enhanced tax credits, an individual making $28,000 “will pay no more than around 1 % ($325) of their annual income towards a benchmark plan.” The system ties a person’s share of premium costs to their income, and the subsidy covers the rest. This critical safeguard has kept coverage within reach for millions of lower-income Americans.

Why Subsidies Are in Danger of Expiring

The wrinkle: the enhanced subsidies many people now rely on are temporary unless Congress renews them. These enhancements were introduced by the American Rescue Plan Act in 2021 and extended under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. They expanded eligibility (including households earning more than 400% of the poverty level) and reduced out-of-pocket costs for individuals. But unless renewed by year’s end, they sunset at the end of 2025.

Even more urgent: insurers are already filing their proposed 2026 premiums, assuming no renewal of the enhanced tax credits. KFF reported that enrollee net premium payments could increase by 114 % on average—from about $888 in 2025 to about $1,904 in 2026—if the enhanced credits expire.

What People with Low Income Will Face

For low- and moderate-income Americans who depend on the marketplaces, the expiration of enhanced subsidies is more than theoretical—it’s a budget-breaker.

If subsidies are eliminated, many enrollees will see their monthly premium contributions skyrocket. KFF’s analysis shows that without the enhanced tax credits, average annual premium payments for subsidized enrollees would more than double. Some households will lose eligibility altogether. For people earning above 400 % of the poverty level, that subsidy cliff means they go from some assistance to none. KFF explains that “people with incomes over four times the poverty level will no longer be eligible for any financial assistance” if the enhanced credits expire.

The rate increases compound the effect: insurers are proposing median premium hikes of around 18 % for 2026. Those who are already barely making ends meet may find the new premiums impossible. One enrollee in Florida told Health News Florida that she’s already struggling to cover other rising costs. “The rent is going up. The water bill is going up,” said the Florida resident. “I cannot afford a premium hike.”

A missing subsidy cushion means not just higher premiums but a greater risk of losing coverage altogether. As Jason Levitis, Senior Fellow at the Urban Institute, explained, “If you have fewer subsidies, you’re going to have less health coverage and less health care.”

Why Enrollment Has Grown Recently

Enrollment in the marketplaces has surged in recent years, and the subsidy enhancements are a significant reason. Before the enhancement period, around 11 million people used the marketplace; now more than 24 million are enrolled.

Several factors have driven the growth. The enhanced tax credits increased eligibility and lowered what many paid, making coverage far more accessible. Improved outreach and usability—especially as state-based marketplaces matured—helped consumers find and keep plans more easily. At the same time, rising costs in employer-based coverage pushed more people to shop for plans individually. According to KFF, the enhancements cut annual premium payments by an estimated 44 % (about $705) for many subsidized enrollees. “The enhancements made it easier for millions of people to afford health coverage,” said Larry Levitt, Executive Vice President for Health Policy at KFF. “If they expire, we could see those gains wiped out almost overnight.”

In short, more help meant more people using the marketplace. The flip side is that less help could mean fewer people—and higher premiums for those who stay.

What’s at Stake

At the core of the current federal budget impasse (which led to the shutdown beginning October 1, 2025) is a fight over whether to extend the enhanced subsidies. Democrats insist that any funding deal must include the subsidy extension, arguing that letting them expire would cause a major affordability crisis. Republicans are pushing for reopening the government without tying the subsidy question directly to the budget deal, saying the issue should be negotiated separately.

From a consumer standpoint, the stakes are enormous. Without subsidy extensions, millions may lose assistance, face steep premium increases, or drop coverage altogether. KFF’s district-level data show that premiums would at least double in many parts of the country if the enhancements are not renewed. Rising premiums could also cause healthier enrollees to opt out, worsening the insurance risk pool and pushing rates even higher in subsequent years.

For families already squeezed by inflation and rising living costs, this would trigger an affordability crisis. “The cost of health insurance is never going to be low enough for a person who makes just above poverty to be able to afford it,” said Cynthia Cox, Director of KFF’s Program on the Affordable Care Act. “If you want that person to have health insurance, then there needs to be financial assistance.”

If Congress doesn’t act, many Americans will pay far more—or lose coverage altogether. As open enrollment begins, millions will face difficult choices about whether they can keep the coverage that has protected them for years, and whether Washington will act before the bills come due.

Insure You Know

Before you finalize your renewal or new plan selection, it may help to check out Insure You Know — a secure, central place where you can store and manage the critical information your family will need (insurance details, plan documents, contact numbers, and more). Taking a few minutes now to upload your coverage information ensures you’re ready for whatever changes lie ahead, and helps keep everything organized so you’re not scrambling when the numbers on your bill jump or the policy rules shift.

From “Promise to Pay” to “Promise to Help – The New Direction of Insurance

October 9, 2025

Insurance used to be pretty straightforward. Something went wrong, a claim was filed, and the company paid out. It was businesslike, dependable, but distant, a transaction built on the idea that help came only after things fell apart.

That mindset is slowly disappearing. Modern insurers are moving from a simple promise to pay toward something broader, a promise to help. It’s a quiet shift, but a powerful one. Instead of showing up after the storm, insurance is learning how to stand beside people before it hits.

What’s Changing and Why

A few years ago, the idea of an insurer sending out real-time alerts or helping clients avoid accidents might have sounded ambitious. Now it is becoming normal. Several forces are pushing this transformation forward.

Customer expectations have changed.

People want services that respond in the moment, not days later. They want their insurer to feel like a partner, not a policy. If their fitness app can track every heartbeat, they wonder why their insurer cannot send a simple safety reminder when a major storm is on the way.

Technology made prevention possible.

Connected homes, smart cars, and wearable tech give insurers tools to spot problems before they happen. It is no longer just about predicting who might file a claim, it is about helping them avoid needing one.

Competition sparked a rethink.

Digital-first insurers, often smaller but more agile, have proven how personal and convenient insurance can be. Established companies are learning to adapt, realizing that loyalty now comes from service, not slogans.

Trust is back in the spotlight.

In truth, insurance has always depended on trust. But trust today is earned differently, not just by paying out quickly, but by showing up early, being transparent, and actually making life a bit safer.

How the “Promise to Help” Looks in Practice

It is easy to forget that most people do not want to think about insurance at all. The “promise to help” changes that by offering useful touchpoints that matter in everyday life.

• Sending storm or flood alerts before damage happens.
• Helping drivers plan safer routes or spot maintenance issues.
• Offering healthy-living rewards that lower costs and build good habits.
• Providing quick repair or recovery options instead of endless paperwork.
• Checking in after an event, not with forms, but with guidance and reassurance.

It is still insurance, but it feels different, more human, more present.

Challenges on the Way

No big change comes without friction. Some insurers still struggle with old systems that do not talk to each other. Others are cautious about how much personal data they collect, and rightly so. Privacy is not just a legal issue, it is emotional.

There is also the challenge of tone. Helping customers without seeming intrusive takes care and empathy. A message that is meant to be helpful can easily feel like surveillance if it is poorly timed or worded.

But the companies that get this balance right are setting a new standard. They are showing that care and commerce can actually coexist.

What This Means for Policyholders

For policyholders, this new direction means fewer surprises and better peace of mind. Instead of being left on their own until something breaks, customers now get small but meaningful touches of support along the way.

They see their insurer less as a faceless institution and more as a partner in protection, a brand that does not just cover life’s troubles but helps prevent them. That sense of security, before and after a crisis, is what builds lasting trust.

How Insurers Can Keep the Promise

To make the shift sustainable, insurers will need to do more than upgrade technology. They will have to reshape how they think about service itself.

1. Focus on listening. Every great service begins with understanding real needs.
2. Keep technology human. Data is helpful, but empathy is irreplaceable.
3. Be transparent. People should always know how and why their data is used.
4. Work together. Partnerships with health, home, and repair services make help more real.
5. Deliver small wins. A helpful reminder or quick response builds more loyalty than a billboard ever could.

These small, consistent actions turn a new promise into a lived experience.

A More Human Kind of Protection

The shift from a “promise to pay” to a “promise to help” is not just clever branding, it is a sign of maturity in the industry. Insurance is finding its way back to what it was meant to be: a source of reassurance in uncertain times.

When help arrives before the loss, customers notice. When it comes with understanding instead of fine print, they remember. That is how insurance stops being something people tolerate and starts becoming something they genuinely trust.

And maybe that is the kind of promise worth keeping.

How to Organize Insurance Documents for Easy Access and Safety

September 10, 2025

Insurance papers have a sneaky way of vanishing. One day they’re on the desk. The next, they’re wedged behind a stack of bills nobody has touched in months, or stuffed into a drawer labeled vaguely “Important Stuff.” Most people think, “I’ll deal with it later.” And then life happens. A fender-bender in the rain, a surprise hospital visit, or a leaky pipe turning the living room into a swamp. Suddenly finding the right document is like searching for buried treasure. Who remembers which folder holds the car insurance from two years ago? Or the health policy hidden behind envelopes untouched since last spring? That’s exactly why InsureYouKnow.org exists. It keeps everything safe, organized, and ready exactly when it’s needed.

Quick Access When Stress Hits

Emergencies never arrive at convenient times. Picture this: rainy night, minor car accident, and the insurance card is nowhere. People start digging through drawers, piles of mail, or folders labeled vaguely, hoping to locate it. Classic mistake. With a secure online vault, all documents are accessible in seconds. No panicking. No frantic calls. Just calm access. That little sense of relief feels huge when stress is already sky-high.

Filing Claims Without Losing Your Mind

Claims are tricky. Forms, receipts, proof of loss. Lose even one, and hours of frustration appear out of nowhere. Even a tiny missing receipt can ruin the whole process. Digital organization keeps everything in one spot. Users can grab exactly what they need without running around like headless chickens. It’s like laying out all the puzzle pieces before trying to finish the picture. No guessing, no stress, no muttering under your breath.

Keeping Policies Up-to-Date

Insurance policies aren’t static. A new car, updated health coverage, or moving across town can change everything. Digital storage allows instant updates. Platforms like InsureYouKnow.org even send reminders for renewals or payments. It’s like having a tiny assistant who never forgets anything. Honestly, who wouldn’t want that?

Sharing Documents Safely

Sometimes family members, partners, or legal representatives need access to documents. But full access isn’t always safe. A secure vault allows selective sharing. Only authorized people see what they need. Sensitive information stays private. Confusion is avoided. One less thing to stress over when life is hectic. Trust me, that matters more than it seems.

Protecting Against Loss or Damage

Paper is fragile. Documents can be lost, stolen, or damaged by floods, fires, or even small accidents like spilling coffee on a stack of papers. Digital storage prevents all that. Even if life throws a mess your way, records remain safe. A few minutes of setup now can prevent hours of headache later. Classic mistake avoided.

How InsureYouKnow.org Helps

Binders, filing cabinets, or random computer folders are full of human errors. InsureYouKnow.org provides a secure online vault for insurance policies, banking info, retirement accounts, legal papers, and more. Everything is encrypted, password-protected, and easy to locate.

Getting started is simple:

• Sign up for an account.
• Upload all important documents.
• Set reminders for updates or renewals.
• Share selected documents only with trusted people.

Final Thoughts

Insurance isn’t just about paying premiums. It’s about being prepared. Disorganized documents increase stress and slow claims when time is critical. Organizing digitally saves time, reduces frustration, and ensures accessibility. Spending just a few minutes today uploading documents to InsureYouKnow.org can prevent hours of stress tomorrow. Small step, big peace of mind.

How to Prepare for College Living: A Survival Guide for Incoming Students

February 15, 2025

Congratulations! You’ve been accepted into college, and soon, you’ll embark on one of the most exciting adventures of your life, along with 16 million others. But before you start dreaming about campus life, late-night study sessions, and newfound independence, there are some practical steps to ensure a smooth transition. From dorm essentials to financial planning, this guide will help you prepare for college living.

1. Master the Art of Budgeting

Living on your own means managing your finances wisely. Here’s how to stay on top of your budget:

• Create a Budget: Track your expenses, including tuition, rent, food, transportation, and entertainment.
• Use Budgeting Apps: Apps like Mint, YNAB, or PocketGuard can help you stay organized.
• Open a Student Bank Account: Many banks offer students accounts with low or no fees.
• Look for Discounts: Your student ID is your best friend—use it for travel, entertainment, and shopping discounts.

2. Pack Smart: The College Essentials Checklist

You don’t want to arrive at college and realize you forgot something crucial. Here’s what to bring:

• Dorm Room Must-Haves:
  • Bedding (twin XL sheets, comforter, pillows)
  • Storage bins and organizers
  • Desk lamp and power strips
  • Laundry hamper and detergent
  • Shower caddy and flip-flops
• Tech Gear:
  • Laptop and chargers
  • Noise-canceling headphones
  • Portable hard drive or cloud storage subscription
• Kitchen Supplies:
  • Mini fridge (if allowed)
  • Microwave or coffee maker
  • Reusable water bottles and utensils
• Emergency Kit:
  • First aid supplies
  • Medications
  • Flashlight and extra batteries

3. Set Up Your Health & Insurance Plan

Make sure you have a solid plan in place for medical needs:

• Health Insurance: Check if you’re covered under your parent’s plan or if your college offers coverage.
• Locate Healthcare Providers: Know where the nearest doctor, dentist, and urgent care clinic are.
• Stock Up on Essentials: Pack prescription medications, vitamins, and a basic first-aid kit.

4. Learn Basic Life Skills

College is a time to gain independence, so mastering basic skills will help you thrive:

• Cooking Basics: Learn how to make simple meals to save money and eat healthier.
• Laundry 101: Know how to separate colors, use detergent, and read washing machine settings.
• Time Management: College life is busy—use planners or apps to manage assignments and social activities.

5. Prepare for Roommate Life

Sharing a living space can be a challenge, but good communication helps:

• Set Boundaries Early: Discuss sleep schedules, cleaning duties, and guest policies.
• Be Respectful: Small gestures, like cleaning up after yourself, go a long way.
• Resolve Conflicts Maturely: Address issues directly and respectfully to maintain a positive environment.

6. Get to Know Campus Resources

Colleges offer plenty of support services—take advantage of them!

• Academic Support: Visit tutoring centers and writing labs.
• Mental Health Services: Many colleges offer free or low-cost counseling.
• Career Services: Start networking and building your resume early.
• Student Organizations: Join clubs to meet new friends and enhance your college experience.

College is a time of growth, challenges, and unforgettable experiences. By planning ahead, you can make the transition smoother and set yourself up for success. Embrace the adventure, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. You’ve got this!

InsureYouKnow.org

College graduation prompts transitioning from a school-based existence to one replete with adult responsibilities. By preparing for the unforeseen future, college grads who do their homework and keep their records at insureyouknow.org, can begin living their lives to the fullest.

Is Your Home Ready for Extreme Weather?

January 1, 2025

From wildfire season with smoky air to higher temperatures and unexpected blackouts during freezing temps, the reality of extreme weather conditions is causing homeowners to better prepare their homes. While every homeowner should feel safe at home, a recent survey by Certain Teed revealed that less than 48% of people feel confident in their home’s durability in the face of extreme weather.

The good news is that smart updates will bring peace of mind and add value to your home. While some projects cost more money and time than others, there are several that require less of an upfront investment. No matter your budget, here are five easy home improvement areas to consider to protect your home and feel safer during weather events.

HVAC Systems Can Protect Against Temperatures and Poor Air Quality

Because people spend 90 percent of their time indoors, the quality of your home’s indoor air is crucial to the quality of your home life. One way homeowners can prepare for extreme weather and climate events is to make sure they have a reliable and well-maintained HVAC system in place. While it can be difficult to predict when climate-related issues may happen, an HVAC system can maintain inside temperatures, withstand harsh weather outside, and provide filtration that improves indoor air quality no matter what unfolds.

Preventative maintenance on your HVAC system and changing the filter every 30 to 90 days will help prolong the life and quality of your investment. Keeping your system at or above 64 degrees Fahrenheit during the colder months also helps prevent expensive issues like frozen and burst pipes.

Choose the Right Roofing Materials For Your Climate

Roof upgrades significantly increase your home’s resilience as well as its value. “The roof is the first line of defense on a home,” says Teed Lucas Hamilton, manager of applied building science at Certain. “It is important to select the right materials for your climate,” he says. Impact-resistant roofing, solar reflective shingles to combat rising temperatures, and fire-resistant materials are all things to consider when choosing roofing materials. In areas where strong wind is a possibility, hurricane fastening and straps can also further secure your roof.

When updating the roof, take into account the gutters. Simple add-ons like leaf filters help prevent blockages so that water doesn’t back up during heavy rainfall. When flooding is a concern, gutters should direct drainage away from the home’s foundation. Too much water around the foundation can lead to serious structural issues in the future, such as cracks in the foundation. A sump pump, which runs automatically to keep water out of basements and away from the foundation, is another wise investment in areas with heavy rain and storms.

Consider Window Updates or Replacements

In areas where debris impact is an issue, shutters that can cover existing windows ahead of a storm can safeguard a home during large storms. Impact windows, which have a heavy-duty frame and glass that’s engineered to remain intact even if it breaks in a collision, are another option, but depending on the number of windows your home has, they can get expensive.

Less expensive alternatives to shutters and window replacements include sealing existing windows and applying tints.

“First, use caulk to seal up any holes and cracks on the outside. Then apply weatherstripping and use a window or door insulation kit to block the cold and heat from the inside,” Hamilton says. “These changes help strengthen the barrier between your home and the outdoors, saving on heating and cooling and keeping the elements outside.”

Applying window tinting is another example of an inexpensive update that can block up to 80% of summer solar heat while also keeping some heat inside during winter months. Updates such as these protect from weather and increase energy efficiency by creating a better barrier between your home and the outside elements.

Make Simple Exterior Updates

Steel doors, which are made of more durable materials than some more elaborate door styles, upgrade a home’s entry points by withstanding storms. When certain updates, such as replacing every window in the house, are not in your budget, replacing the home’s main entry points with stronger doors can be a good place to start.

Changing the color of your exterior paint is another affordable update that can help with temperature control. “You might think that choosing the exterior color of your home is only about picking what color you like best,” says Angie Hicks, co-founder of Angi, formerly known as Angie’s List. “The climate you live in is crucial to picking the right color.”

In hot climates, light colors will help to reflect the sun and keep the interior cool, while those who live in climates prone to extreme colds should choose darker tones to retain heat better.

Maintenance is Key to Safeguarding Your Property

With increased extreme weather events, your home could be damaged slowly over time. It becomes more important to inspect your home for changes and keep up on maintenance to prevent larger repairs and damage down the road. Checking your roof after storms, such as noting any cracks, sagging, or debris in the gutters, is an important part of keeping your roof resilient during the next event. Trees around your home should also be checked for cracks in large branches or soggy soil around the roots, as those should be addressed to prevent damage in a future storm. Gutters should also be cleared regularly to prevent blockages, as well as collect debris from the yard that could become projectiles.

Insureyouknow.org Make sure you’re aware of how your community issues weather alerts. While some use outdoor sirens, others depend on media and smartphones to alert residents of severe storms. No matter what kind of hazards your community may be prone to, the National Weather Service recommends developing a plan with your family ahead of time, such as knowing where your emergency meeting place is or where the safe room is in your home. Safe rooms are usually those without windows at the lowest level of your home. In the event that your home is compromised, Insureyouknow.org can protect all of your vulnerable paper documents by ensuring digital access, providing you with one less thing to worry about so that you may focus on the safety of yourself and your loved ones.

Planning for the Care of Your Adult Child on the Spectrum

April 1, 2023

Today marks the start of National Autism Awareness Month. For parents who have children with autism spectrum disorder (or ASD), it is imperative that they begin to plan for their future now. The CDC recently reported that approximately 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with ASD. Though it’s not something anyone wants to think about, every family should prepare for the day they are no longer around to care for their loved ones, especially those with disabilities. The most important part of designing a care plan is to utilize the help of professionals who specialize in the care of special needs. Since the process can be overwhelming,

“It’s essential to work with specialists in this type of planning,” said AndrewKomarow, founder of Planning Across the Spectrum in Connecticut. When working with a specialist, parents should let them know what they want for the child, so that a specialist can tell them what is right for their situation.

Financial Planning

For many, the most intimidating portion of planning for the care of a special needs child is likely the financial aspect. People with disabilities usually qualify for Government services, such as Social Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Medicaid, but sometimes that may not be enough. Many government services have income limitations, so it’s very important to set up supplemental income, such as personal funds and life insurance, properly in order to avoid the disqualification of government aid. A special needs, or supplemental needs, trust will hold the assets of a person with disabilities without costing them their government benefits; another financial option is an ABLE account, that allows savings up to $100,000 without losing government benefits.

To find a planning specialist that is trained in the care of those with special needs, parents may check the websites of the National Elder Law Foundation and Academy of Special Needs Planners.

Housing

When it comes to housing, “It’s more important to look at the individual,” Komarow said. “What interests and supports do they need?” Parents should think beyond their child living in the family home or with other family members. It’s important to consider how independently functioning they are and which communities will best serve their needs. In other words, instead of parents thinking about where they would like to retire, they should be looking at areas that their child can thrive in after they pass away.

There is a trend toward more community-based living, Gordon Homes with WestPoint Financial in Indianapolis points out. “State-administered Medicaid HCBS waiver programs allow people with disabilities to live in a house or apartment,” he said. A planning specialist will know about options such as these and be able to direct parents toward a solution they can be comfortable with, and their children, if able to, should always be brought into this conversation.

Designating a Care Team

How independently functioning a child with ASD is will determine what kind of care team needs to be put in place. A trustee will help to manage the trust on behalf of the child. They should be someone who is responsible, cares about the child, and will outlive the parents. A guardian or conservator would make all of the decisions regarding an individual’s financial and personal affairs. With a power of attorney, both they and the individual will be able to make decisions together. If able, the child should always be included in the decision-making process, because they should feel just as comfortable as their parents are with the designated care team.

Compiling Information for Caregivers

Marianne Ehlert of Protected Tomorrows, who works with families of people on the autism spectrum to plan for adult living, knows that, “Usually, parents or guardians of a teen understand what that child needs.” It will be important to determine whether or not a child will have the skills they need as a young adult to function independently, such as managing finances, scheduling care appointments, managing personal hygiene, and maintaining the shopping, cooking, and cleaning at home. This will also help determine what sort of living conditions they will need. Will they live with family, alone with minimal support, or will they need to live at a full-time care facility? A statement or letter of wishes, though not a legally-binding document, will serve as a guide for those who will care for your child. It should include all of the child’s care instructions, including medical needs, financial benefits, residential arrangements, and even daily routines.

Planning While Your Child is Still Young

When planning happens early, parents can learn about beneficial programs that their child may be eligible for, oftentimes at their own school. A child’s education can actually be designed to support their plans for the future. Special Needs Planning expert Phillip Clark points out that many planning processes focus on the care of the child once the parents are gone, but planning should be focussed on the child thriving both in the future and now. In order to succeed in the future, children need support now that will help them achieve all of their goals. Families should envision what they want for their child and then determine what needs to be done in order to make that happen.

Not only can planning provide caregivers with priceless peace of mind, but it can also lead to the discovery of resources that will help children with ASD flourish now. Since the planning process can be long, Insureyouknow.org can help parents stay organized by storing all of their documents in one place, such as financial information, medical records, and detailed care instructions.