3-2-1…Happy New Year! And just like that, it’s January. The time of year when motivated people flood the gyms, smoking areas empty out as people put the patch on and salads and rice cakes are everyone’s favorite meals.

We love the concept of starting over/hitting the reset button and, plainly put, bettering ourselves for our New Year’s resolutions. But as we enjoy a fresh start, it’s also a reminder to us all that we should reflect and evaluate what has happened and what could happen. Every year, we review health insurance benefits for open enrollment season. But do you review your insurance policies? Insurance should never be a one-and-done type of thing.

The new year is a great time to ask yourself a few questions: What could go wrong over the course of this year? Are there things that could happen to my home, my car, my business? What has happened over the last 12 months and did my insurance meet my needs? In January, review your policies and see what you’ve got. This will help you decide if you have the right kind of insurance and the right amount for the new year. A lot can change in a year and while we can’t always plan for the unexpected, you can be prepared. Use this checklist to help prepare questions for your agent.

Your Automobile

• Make sure your coverage is appropriate for your life situation. Liability is the part of the policy that pays for any injury or damage if you cause an accident. If your liability insurance is too low, it is possible that you could be sued for any damages above your liability limits
• Are your coverage limits appropriate for your life situation?   Liability is the part of the policy that pays for any injury or damage if you cause an accident. Make sure you are covered properly.
• Do you know your deductible should you get in an accident or something happens to your car?  Is it set for the right amount for you?
• Have you had changes in driving habits? a shorter or longer commute due to a job change or relocation?
• Do you have new drivers this year?

Your Home

• Did you renovate? It could have increased your home value so you should see if you should increase your coverage.
• Did you make any high-value purchases such as a wedding ring, big screen TV or Artwork? They should be added to your policy.
• Update your home inventory with a current record of your belongings.
• Did you purchase a swimming pool or trampoline? Make sure you have enough liability coverage.