9/2/2009:

Did you know that State Farm does much more than insurance?

This morning, local State Farm Agent Hugo Gonzalez gives some investment tips (for those with any money left over to invest!)

Is CD Laddering Right for you?

With the recent volatility in the stock market, people are hesitant to put their entire nest egg into the market. Additionally, with the economy creating tight times for families, it’s often necessary to make sure funds are available if and when we need them. For those investors who are either reluctant to jump head first into the market or those who may have a need for cash, the strategy of laddering Certificates of Deposit (CDs) may be appropriate.

CD laddering may be a strategy that’s appropriate for your lifestyle. Plus, with the guaranteed interest rate offered on CDs, you will be able to plan your future with confidence. Talk to us for more information.

Technorati Tags: CD Laddering, Certificates of Deposit, Hoboken, hugo gonzalez, Investments, New Jersey, NJ, state farm

8/4/2009:

[Each month, Hoboken411 will publish helpful insurance tips, courtesy of our local State Farm Insurance office.]

Are your front steps covered?

Q: When it comes to homeowners insurance, how is the front sidewalk and stairs leading up to a brownstone covered? What are the most common claims that homeowners insurance covers (and doesn’t cover) pertaining to the front sidewalk and stairs?

State Farm Says:

A: There are two distinct parts to this question:

The sidewalk and the stairs leading to the dwelling. Let us start with the fact that the sidewalk is common property, which means that there might be, shared responsibility by more than one party to adequately maintain and as well the use of this area.

On the other hand, the stairs leading to the brownstone, if they are attached to the dwelling, they are indeed considered part of the dwelling. Therefore, making this strictly a responsibility of the owner.

Now with that said, it is important to know that in both cases the most common claims come from unfortunate accidents, better known as ’slip and fall’ on the premises. In these cases the coverages that apply are the liability section and medical expenses to others. In cases, where there is a property policy separate from a liability policy, then it is the liability policy that is going to handle the claim.

These claims, can be long and complicated, but as well, in some instances are easily resolved. Primarily, the claim is handled, starting with an investigation and the procedures follow depending on the facts of the case. If in fact the “prudent man rule” was not followed by the property owner. Which means, the sidewalks or stairs were not properly and adequately maintained, then the claimant has a very good case and will most likely be compensated for their damages. On the other hand, if these premises were properly cared for, then there might be a denial of the claim, depending on the circumstances, which could turn into a longer litigation process if necessary.

READ THE REST AFTER THE JUMP…

[Click to continue reading the rest....]

Technorati Tags: Dwelling, Hoboken, Homeowners, insurance, NJ, Questions and Answers, Sidewalks, state farm insurance, Steps

5/19/2009:

[Each month, Hoboken411 will publish helpful insurance tips, courtesy of our local State Farm Insurance office.]

Home-Based Businesses Need Business Insurance

“In today’s economy for one reason or another, such as the need for additional income or the loss a job, many are setting up a business out their home.

Many entrepreneurs start their businesses on shoestring budgets and try to cut corners by keeping expenses at a minimum. But when you consider what you get, business insurance becomes a tool you can’t afford to work without.”

Ask the Insurance Agent Q&A

Have a tough insurance question you’d like covered on “Hoboken Insurance Tips?”

Send your question in to hoboken411@gmail.com (subject: Insurance Q&A) – for consideration in next month’s column!

Technorati Tags: Ask the insurance agent, insurance, Questions, state farm, tips