Insurance Needs and Your Business

Do you have a contingency plan to take care of unplanned events or emergencies. Is your business risk-proof?

No matter how big or small your business is, it faces risks that could lower profit margins and eventually force you to close your doors - often without much notice.

Being true business professionals, we understand how serious these risks can be. We also realize that every dollar spent counts in business. That's why we have created customized business insurance plans to protect your business from unforeseen and unexpected events.

As your Insurance agent, I believe there’s more to insurance than the policy itself. It’s about providing dependable protection and service. That’s why earning your trust is my policy.

Bennett Insurance Group, Inc. has been in the insurance industry for over 20 years and takes tremendous pride in serving you to the very best of his abilities.

Ask our sales team and you will get to know why it's pure fun to work with us.

We are a diversified group of people, past pioneers, and present day visionaries,  all moving towards our goal of providing peace of mind through insurance solutions. With a relaxed workplace culture, flexible benefit programs tailored to individual employees, ongoing training and professional development and a keen focus on internal communications, we expect to grow together with our trusted partner - you.

Our Corporate Culture

• Be accessible, professional and friendly as we strive for service excellence.

• Promote a culture with a broad range of products to meet member needs.

• Offer innovative products and be responsive to the marketplace with superior product delivery.

• Offer technology to meet member needs.

• Build member loyalty, advocacy and insistence.

• Be community-involved and recognized as a good corporate citizen.

When considering your needs for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Insurance Brokers Do It Best

Selecting a qualified, dependable insurance Broker is one of the most important steps any business owner can take. Looking closely, you will find that all great insurance Brokers share similar qualities. The following list are strengths that you will want to consider.

Availability
The best insurance Brokers are typically those that can be reached at odd hours and are able to return phone calls quickly. Generally, most customers could have problems during any hour of the day. Top Brokers utilize emails, texts or cell phones to be available whenever they are needed. Find a Broker who is flexible and accommodate your scheduling needs.

Knowledge
Great insurance Brokers are more knowledgeable about the risks associated with your business and about which insurance products can best address those specific risks. A Broker becomes a valuable asset when it comes to assessing risk. They are well-informed of regulations as they relate to insuring your business and will inform you when you need to seek the advice of another expert, such as a lawyer or accountant.

Customer Service
Customers don’t want to change Brokers or carriers; it’s just too much trouble. A great Broker will provide outstanding customer service – making sure they are prepared with answers and are able to respond in a timely manner. It’s the Broker’s job to deliver any good news right away and bad news often. Customers are loyal to Brokers they trust to properly and efficiently handle their account.

Outstanding Communication Skills
The relationship established should be one of mutual respect and mutual communication. Some Brokers try to tell you what they need, before they ask you what you need. Choose a Broker who takes the time to listen to you first. Only through properly communication with the business owner, and a complete understanding of the business, can a good Broker obtain proper coverage. A good Broker will be certain to explain policy details, not only including the key strengths of the policy, but also the weaknesses and exclusions.

Solid Work Ethic
Most often, top Brokers tend to be tireless workers and seem to always be available when you need them. They work hard to service your account – even after the sale. Anyone can sell you a product, but a great Broker works with you throughout the year as your needs may change.

When considering your needs for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group, Inc.
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Bennett Insurance Group Presents: Pima Air & Space Museum

Pima Air & Space Museum, where history takes flight, is one of the largest air and space museums in the world, and the largest non-government funded aviation museum. You'll see more than 300 aircraft and spacecraft including many of the most historically significant and technically advanced craft ever produced, both from the United States and throughout the world.

If you plan to be in the Tucson area, a visit to the Pima Air & Space Museum is a must.

The Pima Air & Space Museum is one of the largest aviation Museums in the world, and the largest non-government funded aviation Museum in the United States. The Museum maintains a collection of more than 300 aircraft and spacecraft from around the globe, including many rare and one-of-a-kind, and more than 125,000 artifacts. Here you will walk among the giants of our aviation heritage, including military, commercial, and civil aviation. Among them are a B-29 Superfortress, the SR-71 Blackbird, and a rare World War II German V-1 "buzz bomb."

Their collection includes President John F. Kennedy's Air Force One, and presidential aircraft used by president's Nixon and Johnson. The Museum has five large hangars totaling more than 177,000 feet of exhibit space. In addition, the 390th Bombardment Group (Heavy) Memorial Museum is located on the Museum grounds. Pima Air & Space maintains its own aircraft restoration center, and is also proud to offer exclusive tours of the Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG), also known as the "Boneyard," located across the street at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.

Docent Guided Walking Tours
50 minute guided tours of indoor exhibits led by experienced docents are free with admission.

Hours and Admission
The Museum is open seven days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Last admission at 4:00 p.m. The Museum is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Parking is free. The Museum is a pet-friendly facility.  A walking tour starts at  the Wright Flyer at 10:30 and inside Hangar 3 at 11:30.

Location: 6000 E. Valencia Rd. Tucson, Arizona 85756 • 520-574-0462

Website: http://www.pimaair.org/

When considering your need for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Brought to you by:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

How Well Are You Covered?

How well are you covered, insurance wise that is?  For most of us insurance isn’t given much of a thought, well that is until you need it.  Then if your coverage is “correct” it is to late to make corrections or adjustments.

Do you have all the insurance coverage you need?  Do you have the right insurance coverage?  The most cost-effective insurance coverage for your family or business situation?  Is it the best insurance coverage for you and your family?

Okay, are those really fair questions to ask the average person about the insurance coverage that they need.  Do you think a web site is the right place to get those answers.  Does a big name insurance company that you see advertising on television care about truly meeting your needs or just making the sale.

In my humble opinion an Independent Insurance broker is the right place to start getting all of those very complex questions and answers to match. The independent agents purpose and goal is build an insurance package that will fit the true needs of your family in today’s complex and ever changing society.

After an accident, illness or unexpected event is not the time to find out that you weren’t covered or were poorly covered.  You don’t want to be gambling with your families’ financial future for lack of the proper information.  Many people wait until after they experience a loss to understand their coverage. Unfortunately, these decisions cannot be undone and they will directly affect your ability to recover from a loss. Review your existing insurance coverage and figure out where your "gaps" are.

There are many things in life you cannot control, but you can control your ability to recover from unforeseen events by having adequate insurance coverage.

No one ever knows for sure when a storm or other peril will strike. There are several steps you can take to ensure that you will be fully compensated for your loss as well as make the insurance claim filing process easier and faster after a disaster.

Meet with your insurance agent annually or as needed to ensure your insurance coverage is adequate to protect you and your family against loss. Take into account any recent changes or additions to your property or surrounding area.

If you don’t currently have an insurance agent working for you, consider your needs for insurance products for your home or business and contact Bennett Insurance Group. It is the right move.  Give us a call at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group, Inc.
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

At Bennett Insurance Group We Appreciate Our Clients

We appreciate your business and the relationship that has forged over the years. Bennett Insurance Group intends to continue to earn your respect and appreciation with each enhancement to the insurance services we provide.

Do you have a contingency plan to take care of unplanned events or emergencies? Do you feel your business risk-proof?

No matter how big or small your business is, it faces risks that could lower profit margins and eventually force you to close your doors - often without much notice.

Being true business professionals, we understand how serious these risks can be. We also realize that every dollar spent counts in business. That's why we have created customized business insurance plans to protect your business from unforeseen and unexpected events.

As your Insurance agent, I believe there’s more to insurance than the policy itself. It’s about providing dependable protection and service. That’s why earning your trust is my policy.

Bennett Insurance Group, Inc. has been in the insurance industry for over 20 years and takes tremendous pride in serving you to the very best of his abilities.

Ask our sales team and you will get to know why it's pure fun to work with us.

We are a diversified group of people, past pioneers, and present day visionaries,  all moving towards our goal of providing peace of mind through insurance solutions. With a relaxed workplace culture, flexible benefit programs tailored to individual employees, ongoing training and professional development and a keen focus on internal communications, we expect to grow together with our trusted partner - you.

Our corporate culture

    Be accessible, professional and friendly as we strive for service excellence.
    Promote a sales culture with a broad range of products to meet member needs.
    Offer innovative products and be responsive to the marketplace with superior product delivery.
    Offer technology to meet member needs.
    Expand existing relationships and attract new members.
    Build member loyalty, advocacy and insistence.
    Attract, develop and retain quality employees.
    Be community-involved and recognized as a good corporate citizen.

When considering your needs for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group, Inc.
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Insurance Needs and Your Business

Do you have a contingency plan to take care of unplanned events or emergencies. Is your business risk-proof?

No matter how big or small your business is, it faces risks that could lower profit margins and eventually force you to close your doors - often without much notice.

Being true business professionals, we understand how serious these risks can be. We also realize that every dollar spent counts in business. That's why we have created customized business insurance plans to protect your business from unforeseen and unexpected events.

As your Insurance agent, I believe there’s more to insurance than the policy itself. It’s about providing dependable protection and service. That’s why earning your trust is my policy.

Bennett Insurance Group, Inc. has been in the insurance industry for over 20 years and takes tremendous pride in serving you to the very best of his abilities.

Ask our sales team and you will get to know why it's pure fun to work with us.

We are a diversified group of people, past pioneers, and present day visionaries,  all moving towards our goal of providing peace of mind through insurance solutions. With a relaxed workplace culture, flexible benefit programs tailored to individual employees, ongoing training and professional development and a keen focus on internal communications, we expect to grow together with our trusted partner - you.

Our Corporate Culture

• Be accessible, professional and friendly as we strive for service excellence.

• Promote a culture with a broad range of products to meet member needs.

• Offer innovative products and be responsive to the marketplace with superior product delivery.

• Offer technology to meet member needs.

• Build member loyalty, advocacy and insistence.

• Be community-involved and recognized as a good corporate citizen.

When considering your needs for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Are You RVing This Summer?

If you are new to RV's, we recommend getting good background, which helps you through the learning and decision steps for determining which RV is right for you.

The major RV lifestyles are the following:
• Camper or Weekender: Those who take very short trips in their RV, typically over a weekend up to about a week.

• Vacationer: Longer trips lasting up to several weeks.

• Snowbird: Takes the RV to warmer climates for an entire season and returns home in the summer.

• Fulltimer: Those who live in the RV as their only place of residence.

At the very minimum, an RV provides temporary living accommodations consisting of a bed, food storage, food preparation, and dining area. On very small trailers or tent campers, cooking and dining facilities may be accessible only from the outside.

For online information there the two common online discussion group types, forums and public newsgroups. Forums are usually hosted by a company or organization, and they set the membership requirements. Public newsgroups are open to the general public. Both are good sources of information, though we prefer the public newsgroups because they tend to be more active.

Check out;
GoodSam Club http://www.goodsamclub.com/
Fun Roads  http://www.funroads.com/

Online discussion groups are public, and can be seen by anyone in the world. Post only the information that you don't mind everyone knowing. Never post information such as passwords, user names, social security numbers, credit card numbers, or other sensitive information. For you and your family's safety, be cautious about specific information you provide. Depending on the context, you may not want to post information such as your full name, family member names, exact physical address or location, license plate numbers, etc. Use a throw-away email address when posting to public groups. Free email accounts are available from Gmail.com and Outlook.com. 

As much as you expend efforts to purchase your dream motor home, it is important to select appropriate motor home insurance policy. Legally speaking, you are required to have a certain minimum amount of coverage when you have your motor home registered. However, there are many insurance policies to ensure that your motor home obtains maximum coverage and protection. It is important to choose a policy that incorporates the recreational value of your motor home and does not treat it as another automobile.

When considering your needs for insurance products for your home or business remember contacting Bennett Insurance Group is the right move.  Give us a call at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Bennett Insurance Group Presents: Rosson House Museum

This 2,800 square foot beautiful Eastlake architectural style Victorian home built in 1895 features ten rooms and five fireplaces. View what life was like for Rosson House residents of Block 14, owners and tenants, in early Phoenix during Arizona’s late territorial times all in its original location. Docent guided tours are every hour and last 45-60 minutes. Contact the Emporium, our museum store, at 602.262.5070 for the day’s tour schedule.

They preserve and interpret the Rosson House through collections and stories of the poeple who lived in the house and the City of Phoenix primarily for the time period of 1895 through 1915.

The Rosson House was built in 1895 for Dr. and Mrs. Roland Lee Rosson at a cost of $7525 and stands today as it did then in its original location. A superb example of the Victorian style, the home was one of the most prominent homes in Phoenix. Purchased by the City in 1974, it has been authentically restored through the contributions of many individuals, groups and businesses.

Mission: Historic Heritage Square, where the past and present ignite imagination.

They fulfill this mission statement by:

Creating a fun and engaging destination in the heart of Phoenix, through preservation, education, events and memorable experiences. And preserving the setting and structures and presenting historical interpretations of the people and history of the square.

Location: 115 N 6th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004

Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10am to 4pm – Sunday Noon to 4pm

Website:  http://www.rossonhousemuseum.org/  •  602.262.5070

When considering your need for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Brought to you by:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Great Family Insurance Agents Are Out There

You'll need to choose a good family insurance agent, one who'll look out after you and your family's needs. Like choosing a good school for your children or a family doctor choosing the right insurance agent is a very important decision.

The two types of insurance agents are:

Independent Insurance Agents - Agents who generally work for an independent insurance agency. Independent insurance agencies represent more than one company. They are typically able to provide you with more product and coverage options that direct writers.  While these two types of agents are certainly different each has their advantage. I've found that many clients truly enjoy the options that come with the independent agent while others prefer the big company branding that seems to come along with the direct writers.

Direct Writers - Those agents who are employees of an insurance company. Direct Writers represent only the products and services that their insurance company has to offer.

Honesty
Well.....believe it or not, there are insurance agents who are not honest! Fortunately, dishonest agents are very few and far between.

Credentials
A good insurance agent will help you establish adequate liability limits, properly evaluate replacement cost of your home and contents, advise you on deductible options, life insurance limits, retirement planning and many more specific insurable situations with the sole purpose of providing you with adequate asset protection.

Just how can you tell who's honest or not. Think about people you meet on the street. Can you tell if the man in the blue suit carrying the briefcase is honest or how about that lady in the green hat?  Agents who are in business fro years means an agent you can trust.

Customer Service
Look for an agent who will service your account.  So many times you'll secure an insurance policy from an agent only to have all the service work done by someone else in the agency. When it seems like every time you call to have your policy modified and you find you're being passed off to someone else, someone who you've never met, then I'd start looking for another agent! It's true, in some agencies, after the original sale, you may never talk with your agent again! Well.....unless you need to purchase another policy! 

When considering your needs for insurance products for your home or business remember contacting Bennett Insurance Group is the right move.  Give us a call at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group, Inc.
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Food Service Liability Insurance

Today’s food service environment is more complex than ever before and you want to know you’re covered for the challenges that occur in the fast paced restaurant business..

Whether you run a small cafe or a national chain, you could be held liable for anything from contaminated or spoiled food to spilled coffee. Consider that you are last and most visible link in the intricate food chain. That’s why you deserve an insurance company with commercial restaurant insurance coverage specifically designed for the modern risks you are facing.

Eligible classes include, but are not limited to:

• Bakery
• Casual Dining
• Catering
• Coffee Bars and Shops
• Delicatessen
• Entertainment Venues
• Ethnic Cuisine
• Fast Food
• Fine Dining
• Food Trucks
• Ice Cream Trucks
• Micro Brewery
• Sandwich Shop
• Vending

• Workman’s Compensation

At Bennett Insurance Group we know how hard you work to make your food related businesses a success and the pride of your neighborhood, city or even the country.  But how much time to do you have to think about and understand your insurance needs?

That’s why you need a strong and knowledge insurance broker working just as hard for you..

When considering your needs for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Insurance Needs and Your Business

Do you have a contingency plan to take care of unplanned events or emergencies. Is your business risk-proof?

No matter how big or small your business is, it faces risks that could lower profit margins and eventually force you to close your doors - often without much notice.

Being true business professionals, we understand how serious these risks can be. We also realize that every dollar spent counts in business. That's why we have created customized business insurance plans to protect your business from unforeseen and unexpected events.

As your Insurance agent, I believe there’s more to insurance than the policy itself. It’s about providing dependable protection and service. That’s why earning your trust is my policy.

Bennett Insurance Group, Inc. has been in the insurance industry for over 20 years and takes tremendous pride in serving you to the very best of his abilities.

Ask our sales team and you will get to know why it's pure fun to work with us.

We are a diversified group of people, past pioneers, and present day visionaries,  all moving towards our goal of providing peace of mind through insurance solutions. With a relaxed workplace culture, flexible benefit programs tailored to individual employees, ongoing training and professional development and a keen focus on internal communications, we expect to grow together with our trusted partner - you.

Our Corporate Culture

• Be accessible, professional and friendly as we strive for service excellence.

• Promote a culture with a broad range of products to meet member needs.

• Offer innovative products and be responsive to the marketplace with superior product delivery.

• Offer technology to meet member needs.

• Build member loyalty, advocacy and insistence.

• Be community-involved and recognized as a good corporate citizen.

When considering your needs for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

401 k Retirement Plans

What are you doing about your retirement?  

What financial tools are you using to fund your coming retirement?

Do you have a 401 (k) plan?  Or is your question … what is a 401 (k) ?

401(K) plans are tax-deferred retirement savings plans for employees. The employer sets them up and each company has a slightly different 401(k). They are part of a family of retirement plans known as "defined contribution" plans - the amount contributed is defined by the employer or the employee.

The 401(k) account is the common name in the United States for the tax qualified defined contribution pension plan account and takes its name from subsection 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (Title 26 of the United States Code). 401(k) are "defined contribution plans" with annual contributions limited to $17,500 as of 2013. Contributions are "tax-deferred"—deducted from paychecks before taxes and then taxed when a withdrawal is made from the 401(k) account. Depending on the employer's program a portion of the employee's contribution may be matched by the employer. They are not the only type of employer-provided defined contribution pension plans; 403(b) and 401(a) defined contribution plans also exist yet have higher mandatory limits.

When you join a 401(K) plan, you tell your employer how much money you want to contribute to your account. This amount is deducted from your salary before taxes are applied, so you pay less income tax. More importantly, the money is deducted even before you have received it, making it the easiest savings plan to contribute to. Your employer may match a portion of your contribution. The money is invested by the plan administrator (on your behalf) in mutual funds, bonds, money market accounts, etc. 

With a 401 (k) you decide on the mix of investments. They usually have a list of investment vehicles you can choose from as well as some guidelines for the level of risk you are willing to take. Since the plan is an incentive for retirement savings, there is one condition: if you withdraw the money before you are 59½ years old, you will have to pay tax as well as a 10% penalty fine to the IRS.

When considering your needs for retirement or insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group, Inc.
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Bennett Insurance Group Presents: Arizona Military Museum

The Arizona Military Museum is operated by the Arizona National Guard Historical Society, a private non-profit corporation. The officers and directors serve as docents, and they perform other necessary functions in conjunction with National Guard support to operate and maintain the museum.

On September 30, 2006, the Arizona Military Museum celebrated its 25th anniversary.

The museum building is a significant part of Arizona's military history. The raw adobe building was constructed in 1936 as a Depression-era public works project. It served as a National Guard arsenal until World War II, when it was converted into a maintenance shop for German prisoners of war confined at a nearby POW camp.

The Arizona Military Museum Library has an outstanding collection of old and new books, periodicals, historical records, videos and written memorabilia, official military histories, specialized encyclopedias, copies of military orders and maps.

Military exhibits include a large weapons display and an actual UH-1M Army Combat Helicopter (gunship) flown in Vietnam. 

The dramatic and colorful military history of Arizona begins with the Spanish Conquistadors and continues to this day. There's something at the Museum for everyone--kids to seniors. Visitors can view over twenty-five authentic displays of everything from uniforms to weapons to armored vehicles, and as a result, gain a better understanding of the contributions made by Arizona veterans who serviced their country.

The museum shares the building with the Arizona Regional Training Institute on Papago Military Reservation at 52nd Street and East McDowell Road. The Museum theme is Lest We Forget, to remind visitors of those in uniformed military service who served their country or lost their lives in combat

Location:  5636 E. McDowell Rd., Phoenix, Arizona 85008-3495

Phone:  602-267-2676 

Website:  http://www.azdema.gov/museum/

When considering your need for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Brought to you by:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Are You Under-insured?

Did you know there are an estimated 42 million Americans making up the self- employed segment of today's workforce. This group is independent and confident; however many of them also lack health insurance and can be under-insured in other areas.

According to a release, Cigna Individual and Family Plans surveyed 250 self-employed Americans and found that nearly 25 percent of respondents do not have health insurance. Given this finding, Cigna's My Business, My Health study took a closer look at this uninsured population to better understand its views on personal health and wellness, business priorities and perceptions and misconceptions about health insurance.

According to My Business, My Health, 60 percent of uninsured respondents place business priorities ahead of personal health and overall wellness. Yet, more than one-third of respondents said that one month away from work due to personal illness would result in either a loss of customers or worse -- going out of business.

According to the survey, while most uninsured respondents (60 percent) worry about not having health insurance and what impact it could have on their business, the majority (also 60 percent) categorize themselves as "reactive" or "inactive" when it comes to their own health, meaning the reactive only go to the doctor when they feel sick or believe something might be wrong and the inactive very rarely go to the doctor even when they feel sick. And, a small percentage of business owners feel that they don't need health insurance because they are "healthy and maintain an active lifestyle." Among those respondents,15 percent aged 41 to 60 adhere to this belief despite the greater frequency of health issues among this demographic in the general population.

Based on the My Business, My Health study findings, Cigna has created the My Business, My Health web page (mybizmyhealth.com) to continue this important conversation with sole proprietors and provide clear information on health care reform and other helpful resources. My Business, My Health provides a glimpse into the mindsets of uninsured business owners featuring real entrepreneurs telling their personal stories about life, health and wellness and owning a business today.

If you fall into this category please give us a call and let us help you.  When considering your needs for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Be Flexible With Your Business Insurance

No matter what they type of business you have insurance will be part of your overhead.  Some of the insurance you need is mandated by different levels of government regulations.  Other types of insurance needs are to protect your assets from lawsuits that could be related to the type of business you do.

You must be ready to change your business and your businesses’ insurance as the market and regulations change.

A recent example happened in the city of Scottsdale, Arizona to the cities’ pedicab operators.

Until now operating a pedicab in Scottsdale was relatively inexpensive. A person could operate a pedicab with little or no overhead and without restrictive, burdensome regulations.

On May 9, 2013 new regulations went into affect. To continue doing business in Scottsdale, pedicab operators must have a valid Arizona driver’s license, maintain insurance and adhere to regulations pertaining to the safety and visibility of the pedicab. The ordinance, which became law  includes penalties for non-compliance but does not specify any equipment inspections.  Other than the Arizona drivers license there is no other testing for operation in Scottsdale.

In Scottsdale, operators now must maintain at all times a commercial general-liability insurance policy of at least $1 million per occurrence and $2 million annual aggregate.

Scottsdale’s ordinance was prompted by a Jan. 4 crash involving a suspected drunken driver and a pedicab trailer on Scottsdale Road near Rose Lane. The two pedicab passengers suffered serious head and spine injuries.

When considering the changing needs for insurance products for your business or home remember contacting Bennett Insurance Group is the right move.  Give us a call at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Insurance Needs and Your Business

Do you have a contingency plan to take care of unplanned events or emergencies. Is your business risk-proof?

No matter how big or small your business is, it faces risks that could lower profit margins and eventually force you to close your doors - often without much notice.

Being true business professionals, we understand how serious these risks can be. We also realize that every dollar spent counts in business. That's why we have created customized business insurance plans to protect your business from unforeseen and unexpected events.

As your Insurance agent, I believe there’s more to insurance than the policy itself. It’s about providing dependable protection and service. That’s why earning your trust is my policy.

Bennett Insurance Group, Inc. has been in the insurance industry for over 20 years and takes tremendous pride in serving you to the very best of his abilities.

Ask our sales team and you will get to know why it's pure fun to work with us.

We are a diversified group of people, past pioneers, and present day visionaries,  all moving towards our goal of providing peace of mind through insurance solutions. With a relaxed workplace culture, flexible benefit programs tailored to individual employees, ongoing training and professional development and a keen focus on internal communications, we expect to grow together with our trusted partner - you.

Our Corporate Culture

• Be accessible, professional and friendly as we strive for service excellence.

• Promote a culture with a broad range of products to meet member needs.

• Offer innovative products and be responsive to the marketplace with superior product delivery.

• Offer technology to meet member needs.

• Build member loyalty, advocacy and insistence.

• Be community-involved and recognized as a good corporate citizen.

When considering your needs for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Homeowners Insurance For The Modern World

When shopping around for a new homeowners insurance package, your first step should be to check with your existing insurance company. Subscribing to multiple policies will save you money. Companies want to have as much business as possible and will reward you covering many areas of your life style.  Think auto, home, life and more.

When shopping for insurance, it can be beneficial to try to obtain all of your insurance needs, such as auto and home, as one package. You can save more money on your premiums by having a single agent for every policy. A number of large insurance carriers give out discounted rates due to bundling.

Long gone are the days when a color TV was the cutting edge of technology, so you need to make sure the insurance coverage you carry on all your electronics is completely up to date.

While your homeowners insurance policy should cover electronics, it might have a set limit for your electronics or they can be lumped in with your appliances, which wouldn't come close to covering your audio devices, computers, smartphones and HDTVs.

You can purchase extra coverage with an endorsement on your homeowners insurance policy that is based on the electronic items' appraised value. Or you can buy separate insurance through a company that specializes in covering electronics.

Consider the coverage of hobby and craft items that you have acquired over the years.  How much is in your garage or craft room.  Make sure those items are fully covered.  In some communities the second car in the garage is a golf-cart and it may be more than the garden variety.  It isn’t on your auto policy, so is it covered by your homeowners insurance policy?

Look over your coverage on a yearly basis and ensure that it is still the best suitable option for your current situation. Perhaps you might want to drop collision insurance on an older vehicle, or save money by increasing the deductible on your homeowners insurance. You may also need to adjust your policy if there has been a change in financial needs or family size.

Always try to take advantage of any discounts your company may offer.

When considering your needs for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Bennett Insurance Group Presents: Arizona Wing of the Commemorative Air Force

On January 14, 1978, at a membership banquet for the newly formed Arizona Wing of the Commemorative Air Force, Colonel Mike Clarke announced the donation of a B-17G aircraft to the CAF for assignment to the Arizona Wing. A contest was initiated by the local media to name the aircraft, which resulted in more than 800 entries, with the ultimate selection of the name Sentimental Journey. The decision was made to use the most famous pinup picture of World War II for the nose art. Permission was secured from widower Harry James to add Betty Grable in her most tantalizing pose to complete the newly acquired bomber.

In 1985 ground was broken for the wing's first permanent hangar facility. With the new facility, repairs to Sentimental Journey could now be performed inside. The new hangar also started the annual fundraiser "A Night in the 40's Big Band Dance" event and is held each March. Sentimental Journey is on display at the front of hangar for photo opportunities along with other Warbirds. Many of the dance attendees come dressed in the styles of the 40's for the costume and dance contests. The annual dance draws over 1,400 guests.

As the museum grew, so did the number of aircraft the wing was restoring. By 1986, Sentimental Journey was making an average of 60 appearances annually throughout the United States and Canada. More aircraft and musuem exhibits were being added to the Arizona Wing, and room for everything was getting sparse. In 2003 the Arizona Wing completed construction on the second building that consists of over 30,000 square feet of Museum and Event Facility space. Restored aircraft and museum exhibits are on display to give you event a unique atmosphere. The Arizona Wing's Event Facility is available for all types of events - "Black Tie," weddings, a casual B-B-Q, or a trade show.

Today the Arizona Wing maintains and fly's as its premier aircraft the B-17 Sentimental Journey and the B-25 Maid in the Shade, along with an SNJ/T-6 Texan, C-47 Skytrain/Dakota, C-45 Expeditor, PT-17 Stearman, and an L-16 Grasshopper. Rides in these planes can be requested by visiting here. Restoration projects have recently included a MiG-15, Grumman Guardian, and a Skiorsky helicopter. The Arizona Wing has on display a F4 Phantom, A 26 Invader, P 47 1/2 scale, SE5a, Schweizer TG-3A Glider and Mig 21, plus numerous visiting aircraft. The PX/Gift Shop in the museum has many unique aviation gifts.

Location: 2017 N. Greenfield Rd. Mesa, AZ 85215 - 480-924-1940

Hours: Wed to Sun from 9AM-3PM 

Website: http://www.azcaf.org/

When considering your need for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Brought to you by:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Health Insurance Basics

What is health insurance and how does it work?

Health insurance markets work best when a large group of relatively healthy people buy insurance and pay their premiums year after year. Insurance markets do not work well when healthy people do not participate in great numbers and the primary purchasers of health insurance are those who will require expensive care. Indeed, insurers prefer to sell coverage to groups formed for reasons other than to purchase insurance, such as employer groups.

In addition to spreading financial risk, health insurance has another important function - guaranteeing access to health care services. Doctors and hospitals are more likely to care for people when they are assured they will be paid. Numerous studies have shown that people without health insurance receive far fewer health services (or delay needed health care) compared to the insured. Thus health insurance not only protects us from catastrophic expenses, it also secures access to important routine, preventive, and primary care services.

It is important to note that having insurance doesn't necessarily mean people have health security. In addition to the uninsured, an estimated 25 million Americans are under-insured; that is, they have insurance, but it is not adequate to protect them from catastrophic medical expenses or to secure access to needed care. The leading cause (approximately 50 percent) of personal bankruptcy in the U.S. is high medical expenses. The majority who cite this reason for their bankruptcy had health insurance. Thus, not only the presence of insurance, but the adequacy of insurance, is critical for health insurance to provide the protection consumers expect and need.

The most common way of getting health insurance is through an employer. Most employers offer their workers the opportunity to join a group health plan, and approximately 92 percent of private health insurance is provided through employer-sponsored group health plans. Depending on the number of employees, an employer might buy insurance in the small group market (usually between 2 and 50 employees) or the large group market. Employers tend to pay most of their employees' premiums, but often contribute less toward insurance for employees' family members. The employer contribution to employees' premiums is often made in lieu higher wages. Health insurance benefits provided by employers are not taxed as income to employees by either the federal government or states.

Approximately 14 million Americans (or roughly 6 percent of the non-elderly) buy their own insurance in the individual insurance market. They must pay the entire premium. Plans purchased in the individual market may cover an individual, a couple, or a family.  Do you need to provide your own insurance?

When considering your needs for insurance products for your health or life please contact Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group, Inc.
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Is the Current Estate Tax Law Permanent?

After years of shifting rates and exemptions, the estate tax is now permanent. Not only does it ensure stability, the new law also preserves opportunities for estate-planning using whole life insurance.

One of the big surprises from the last-moment deal that pulled the nation back from the fiscal cliff was the permanent estate tax law, which should make estate-planning go much more smoothly for advisors and their wealthy customers.

The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 sets the top estate tax rate at 40 percent -- permanently, after years of shifting rates and exemptions, and annual surprises. That rate is up from the previous 35 percent, but much lower than the 55 percent maximum that would have occurred had the new law not been enacted.

In addition, the lifetime estate and gift tax exemption amounts — of $5 million for individuals and $10 million for couples, indexed for inflation — remain unified. These amounts are extended permanently, for estates and gifts made after Dec. 31, 2012, according to an analysis from the Association for Advanced Life Underwriting.

Absent the new law, the exemption amounts would have dropped to $1 million and $2 million, respectively, as of January 1st, 2013.

The new legislation also keeps portability provisions in place. These govern unused credits for surviving spouses.

The fact that Congress made the changes permanent is key. It means people no longer have to do estate planning in an environment that is up and down and where the exemption amounts and tax rates can snap back to previous levels or change frequently. You can do long-term planning, knowing that these levels are fixed, permanently, and that the estate and gift tax exemption is unified.

The unified credits will help with the transfer of assets while clients are alive. Unification will also help with business succession planning.

Congress can always revisit the law in the future and make changes then, but the permanent nature of the change suggests that this is unlikely to occur in the near future.

Let Bennett Insurance Group help when you are considering your needs for financial planning or insurance products for your home or business. Contact us at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Insurance Needs and Your Business

Do you have a contingency plan to take care of unplanned events or emergencies. Is your business risk-proof?

No matter how big or small your business is, it faces risks that could lower profit margins and eventually force you to close your doors - often without much notice.

Being true business professionals, we understand how serious these risks can be. We also realize that every dollar spent counts in business. That's why we have created customized business insurance plans to protect your business from unforeseen and unexpected events.

As your Insurance agent, I believe there’s more to insurance than the policy itself. It’s about providing dependable protection and service. That’s why earning your trust is my policy.

Bennett Insurance Group, Inc. has been in the insurance industry for over 20 years and takes tremendous pride in serving you to the very best of his abilities.

Ask our sales team and you will get to know why it's pure fun to work with us.

We are a diversified group of people, past pioneers, and present day visionaries,  all moving towards our goal of providing peace of mind through insurance solutions. With a relaxed workplace culture, flexible benefit programs tailored to individual employees, ongoing training and professional development and a keen focus on internal communications, we expect to grow together with our trusted partner - you.

Our Corporate Culture

• Be accessible, professional and friendly as we strive for service excellence.

• Promote a culture with a broad range of products to meet member needs.

• Offer innovative products and be responsive to the marketplace with superior product delivery.

• Offer technology to meet member needs.

• Build member loyalty, advocacy and insistence.

• Be community-involved and recognized as a good corporate citizen.

When considering your needs for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

Directors and Officers Liability Insurance

Directors and Officers Liability Insurance provides financial protection for the directors and officers of your company in the event they are sued in conjunction with the performance of their duties as they relate to the company. Think of Directors and Officers Insurance as a management Errors and Omissions policy.

Directors & Officers Liability Insurance can usually include Employment Practices Liability and sometimes Fiduciary Liability. The former involves harassment and discrimination suits, and is where the majority of your exposure will be.

Directors and Officers Insurance is often confused with Errors and Omissions Liability. The two are not synonymous; Errors and Omissions is concerned with performance failures and negligence with respect to your products and services, not the performance and duties of management. Generally it is a good idea to carry both Directors and Officers Liability Insurance and Errors and Omissions Liability Insurance.

You need Directors and Officers Insurance because claims from stockholders, employees, and clients will be made against the company, and against the directors of the company. Since a director can be held personally responsible for acts of the company, most directors and officers will demand to be protected rather than put their personal assets at stake.

Secondly, you need Directors and Officers Insurance because: Investors and members of your board of directors will not be willing to risk their personal assets to serve as a corporate director or officer, no matter how heartfelt their belief in your company.

Lastly, employment practices suits constitute the single largest area of claim activity under Directors and Officers Liability policies. More than fifty percent of Directors and Officers Liability claims are employment practices related.

When considering your needs for insurance products for your home or business remember contacting Bennett Insurance Group is the right move.  Give us a call at 623-979-4140

Presented By:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com

"Suited for Space" Exhibit at Lowell Observatory

Time is running out (Exhibit ends June16th 2013) to see this great display at the Lowell Observatory.  Discover the brilliant ingenuity and remarkable creativity that goes into the ultimate life-support system-the spacesuit. "Suited for Space" is developed by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) in collaboration with the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, and features suits used in testing and training, large-scale photographs, and 10 objects on loan from the National Air and Space Museum.

The exhibition features large-scale photographs of suits worn by astronauts from Project Mercury through the Skylab program as well as suits used in testing and training. The photographs featured in “Suited for Space” were taken by Smithsonian photographer Mark Avino. In addition, Avino, in collaboration with Ronald Cunningham produced new X-ray images that provide a unique view of the interiors of the spacesuits. While the fragility of these spacesuits prevents them from traveling, the exhibition will feature a replica Apollo spacesuit on loan from NASA and 10 objects from the National Air and Space Museum’s collection, including a glove, a boot and helmets. Avino’s photographs provide a visual timeline of the spacesuits’ development over the years.

“Suited for Space” includes suits that made history, like the one Buzz Aldrin wore on the moon, and those that never left the ground such as the Mark V spacesuit designed for Project Mercury. The design of the Mark V suit included an over-sized shoulder joint that provided an expanded level of mobility. However, with three astronauts sitting side-by-side in a capsule the size of the front seat of a small car, the suit was not feasible for the Apollo mission. A visitor to the exhibition can see an exciting visual timeline of the spacesuits’ evolution over the years. In addition, the exhibition has its own Facebook page for space trivia, curatorial insight, and general fun.

Location: 1400 Mars Hill Road Flagstaff, AZ 86001 - 928-233-3260

Hours:  M/W/F/Sa: 9:00am - 9:00pm T/Th/Su: 9:00am-5:00pm

Website:  http://www.lowell.edu/news/2013/03/suited-for-space-exhibition-opens-at-lowell/
https://www.facebook.com/suitedforspace

When considering your need for insurance products for your home or business consider contacting Bennett Insurance Group at 623-979-4140

Brought to you by:
Jim Bennett
Bennett Insurance Group
623-979-4140
http://jimbennettinsurance.com
jim@jimbennettinsurance.com