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Superbowl Party Must-Dos

Tristan Bills — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 14:46:35 +0000

The Big Game goes down on February 9th, 2025, and you can bet that screens everywhere will air the field. Whether you’re a tried and true football fan or are the classic friend joining in the festivities solely for the halftime show or the snacks, we’ve gathered the top tips for hosting. If you’re looking to throw a party at home for the Big Game, or help your friends out with a party planning guide specific to the game…look no further. No need to throw a hail Mary when you’re taken care of with these game-winning hacks.

Hosting must-haves

Ease your prep with these few items, which you likely already have laying around and will undoubtedly use again and again.

Crock pot or instant pot: Let those mini sausages simmer all game long.
Coolers or tubs: All the easier to grab drinks from.
Bags of ice: Lots of these…keep the drinks cold and the cheers loud.
Disposable dishes: Whether your team wins or loses (or you really don’t have any skin in the game), no need to end the day loading the dishwasher.

What to eat

The real reason for throwing a party for the Big Game.

Buffalo chicken dip: A major crowd pleaser. Hands down.
Hawaiian roll sliders: Hack—prepare these in groups of Hawaiian roll squares, so you’re not actually prepping each slider individually. Win, win.
Loaded fries: No words necessary.
Crudite board: A fresh crunch to ease up the cheese. GF & V.
Cauliflower Wings: Use your airfryer (or oven) for this crowdpleaser. Also GF & V.

What to drink

It’s of the utmost importance to stay hydrated while in the midst of football.

Beergaritas: Your Big Game specialty drink
Coors Light & Miller Lite: Would it be American football without smashing a few of these?
Sparkling water: For the ones who don’t want to sip beer but still enjoy something cold and refreshing.
Bottled water: Up to you, really, but after the fans have pounded a few beers… water’s never a bad idea. They just likely won’t think of it unless it sits right in front of them.

What to play

Besides a friendly game of 2-hand-touch at halftime of course…

Touchdown Jello Shots: Whip up jello shots in both team’s colors. Each time a team scores, your party takes shots in the according color. Brain power not required here.
Bingo x Commercials: Fill out bingo cards with topics you would put money on would be in this year’s commercials. Think: Chips, soda, deodorant, home insurance.
The Classic Betting Squares: For those of you who thought you had no skin in the game, think again.
For more ideas, check these out.

Hosting items specific to football

No decor needed for hosting the game since eyes will be on the screen, but adding in sporty touches to the servingware brings that extra touch. Like the extra point, but for hosting.

Serving trays: For a display the fans will rave about.
Inflatable football cooler: If it comes out once a year from now until forever, it’s worth it.
Snack tray: Like a happy meal for grown-ups, really
Condiment dish: Because watching the Big Game is really about the dips and sauces.
Football Koozie: If you want to guarantee that your cooler is empty by the end of the game.

Touchdown. Extra points. Field goals. 10-yard penalty. Flag on play. Now we’re just showing off… Those are a few words to add to your vocabulary before the Big Game. That way, you can show off with your hosting skills with a side of football terms. Go team go.

Score a hosting touchdown when you try these out with the Soup-er Bowl party by Partytrick.

The post Superbowl Party Must-Dos first appeared on Endeavor Insurance Group.

Essential Tips to Prevent and Handle Frozen Pipes This Winter

Tristan Bills — Sat, 28 Dec 2024 17:24:20 +0000

Frozen pipes can cause significant damage to your home and disrupt your daily life, especially during the winter months. Understanding why pipes freeze, how to protect them, and what to do if they freeze is essential for avoiding costly repairs and ensuring your plumbing remains functional. This guide will walk you through the common causes of frozen pipes, preventative measures to keep them safe, and effective methods for thawing them if they do freeze.

Why Pipe Freezing is a Problem

Water has a unique property in that it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal or plastic pipes. No matter the strength of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break.

Pipes that freeze most frequently are:

Pipes that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines.

Water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets.

Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation.

How to Protect Pipes From Freezing

Before the onset of cold weather, protect your pipes from freezing by following these recommendations:

Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacturer’s or installer’s directions. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless directed. Antifreeze is environmentally harmful, and is dangerous to humans, pets, wildlife, and landscaping.

Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open the outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break.

Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.

Check around the home for other areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas. Look in the garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.

Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a “pipe sleeve” or installing UL-listed “heat tape,” “heat cable,” or similar materials on exposed water pipes. Newspaper can provide some degree of insulation and protection to exposed pipes – even ¼” of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas that usually do not have frequent or prolonged temperatures below freezing.

Consider relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.

Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.

When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe – even at a trickle – helps prevent pipes from freezing.

Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.

If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.

Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.

Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.

Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you can not thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.

Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

By taking the time to prepare your home and plumbing for winter, you can prevent the headaches and expenses associated with frozen pipes. From insulating vulnerable areas to knowing how to safely thaw a frozen pipe, these steps will help keep your home safe and your water flowing. With a little preparation, you can enjoy the colder months worry-free, knowing you’ve done everything possible to protect your pipes from freezing.

The post Essential Tips to Prevent and Handle Frozen Pipes This Winter first appeared on Endeavor Insurance Group.

Top 10 New Year’s Resolutions to Kickstart Your Best Year Yet

Tristan Bills — Fri, 27 Dec 2024 18:33:46 +0000

The New Year is upon us, a time for reflection and renewal. It’s a chance to set fresh goals and strive to become the best version of ourselves. While resolutions are easy to make, sticking to them can be challenging. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the top 10 New Year’s resolutions, complete with resources and advice to help you succeed.

1. Exercise More Regularly: This classic resolution is about improving your physical and mental well-being.

At-Home Workouts: No gym? No problem! YouTube is a treasure trove of free workout videos. Channels like Fitness Blender and POPSUGAR Fitness offer diverse routines for all fitness levels.
Advice: Start small, be consistent, and find an activity you enjoy. Even 15 minutes a day is a great start.

2. Eat Healthier: Fueling your body with nutritious foods is essential for overall health.

Resources: Websites like the Mayo Clinic and MyFitnessPal offer valuable information on nutrition, meal planning, and tracking your food intake.
Advice: Focus on adding healthy foods to your diet rather than strictly restricting yourself. Small changes, like swapping sugary drinks for water, can make a big difference.

3. Learn a New Skill: Expanding your knowledge and abilities can boost your confidence and open up new opportunities.

Resources: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Skillshare offer a wide range of courses on various topics, from coding to photography.
Advice: Choose a skill that genuinely interests you and break down the learning process into smaller, manageable steps.

4. Read More: Reading is a fantastic way to learn, relax, and expand your imagination.

Resources: Goodreads or the popular alternative The Story Graph is a great platform for discovering new books and tracking your reading progress. Local libraries also offer a wealth of resources.
Advice: Set a realistic reading goal, even if it’s just a few pages a day. Find a quiet place to read and make it a regular habit.

5. Spend More Time with Family and Friends: Nurturing relationships is crucial for happiness and well-being.

Advice: Schedule regular time for social activities, put away your phone when you’re with loved ones, and actively listen to what they have to say.

6. Get More Sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for physical and mental health.

Resources: The National Sleep Foundation provides valuable information on sleep hygiene and tips for improving your sleep quality.
Advice: Establish a regular sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.

7. Manage Stress Better: Chronic stress can take a toll on your health.

Resources: Apps like Calm and Headspace offer guided meditations and mindfulness exercises to help you manage stress.
Advice: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing and yoga, engage in hobbies you enjoy, and prioritize self-care.

8. Save More Money: Building a financial safety net can provide peace of mind.

Resources: Websites like Mint and YNAB (You Need A Budget) can help you track your spending and create a budget.
Advice: Set a realistic savings goal, create a budget, and look for ways to cut back on unnecessary expenses.

9. Travel More: Exploring new places can broaden your horizons and create lasting memories.

Advice: Start planning early, research your destination, and look for affordable travel options.

10. Learn a New Language: Expanding your language skills can open up new cultural and professional opportunities.

Resources: Apps like Duolingo and Babbel offer interactive language lessons for various languages.
Advice: Be patient, practice regularly, and immerse yourself in the language as much as possible.

40 More New Year’s Resolutions to Consider:

Drink more water
Reduce screen time
Volunteer in your community
Declutter your home
Learn to play a musical instrument
Start a journal
Take more photos
Learn to cook a new cuisine
Grow a garden
Learn calligraphy or hand lettering
Practice gratitude
Forgive others
Let go of negativity
Be more mindful
Take more breaks
Learn about personal finance
Start a side hustle
Network more
Improve your communication skills
Learn public speaking
Take a photography course
Learn to code
Get organized
Set personal boundaries
Say “no” more often
Learn a new game (chess, bridge, etc.)
Attend local events
Support local businesses
Reduce your carbon footprint
Learn about different cultures
Improve your posture
Stretch daily
Get a checkup with your doctor
Donate blood
Learn basic first aid
Take a self-defense class
Learn to meditate
Practice deep breathing exercises
Spend time in nature
Learn to sew or knit

Remember, the key to achieving your New Year’s resolutions is to set realistic goals, create a plan, and stay committed. Good luck, and here’s to a happy and successful New Year!

The post Top 10 New Year’s Resolutions to Kickstart Your Best Year Yet first appeared on Endeavor Insurance Group.

101 Fun Winter Activities for Kids

Tristan Bills — Fri, 27 Dec 2024 17:14:23 +0000

Unlike spring, summer and fall, when the weather is almost always ripe for open-ended outdoor activities, winter takes a little more planning. While snowy days offer their own magical brand of play, frankly speaking, little ones can only build so many snowmen. And to that point, parents can only spend a third of their day dressing and undressing their kids in snow gear so many times.

On the hunt for winter activities for kids that go beyond movies and hot cocoa? Say no more. From outdoor winter activities for toddlers to easy winter crafts the whole family will want to get in on, here are 101 winter activities for kids of all ages. Bring on the cold!

Crafty winter activities for kids

Make snowmen out of unwanted socks.
Make an igloo out of pillows.
Make Swedish snowball lanterns.
Do a craft using only things found in nature.
Make penguins from empty toilet paper rolls.
Make a snowy sensory bin.
Start an indoor garden.
Practice tracing with cookie cutters.
Write a bucket list for the warmer months ahead.
Make slime.
Use masking tape to make an indoor maze.
Get out the crayons and coloring books.
Make frozen suncatchers.
Make a snowstorm in a jar.
Make frozen water balloons.
Make paper snowflakes.
Make paper bag animals.
Create a paper mache snowman indoors.
Make a snow globe.
Make a winter wreath out of paper.
Learn to make soap.
Make something from all those empty boxes after the holidays.
Learn to knit.
Make snowflake stamp art.
Make a cave of stars.
Make a winter photo album.
Make crazy crayons.
Make nature confetti.
Look online for free printables.
Use rubber gloves to make finger puppets.
Start a scrapbook.
Take up punch needling.
Make your own playdough.
Make a structure out of marshmallows and toothpicks.
Make your own board game.

Snowy winter activities for kids

Try bowling outside with snowballs.
Shovel a snow maze.
Have an indoor snowball fight.
Put colored water in a spray bottle and write in the snow.
Bury small toys outside for a snowy treasure hunt.
Catch snowflakes on your tongue.
Make a snow volcano.
Make your own snow.
Build a snowman.
Try I Spy when everything is covered with snow.
Build a snow fort out of a snowbank.
Go snow-shoeing.
Use differently shaped containers to mold snow.
Paint the snow.
Find the biggest hill near you and go sledding.

Food-based winter activities for kids

Make s’mores.
Make penguin snacks.
Make frozen hot chocolate.
Remember it’s never too cold for ice cream!
Have an indoor picnic.
Take a virtual cooking class.
Have a proper tea party.
Make a batch of fluffy cloud dough.
Forget the cold and make Popsicles!
Make cinnamon sugar snowflakes.
Make a batch of salt dough and preserve their creations.

Winter games and physical activities for kids

Play a game of finger spelling.
Do a puzzle together.
Play dress-up.
Turn off the lights for a game of flashlight tag.
Put on some music and have a dance party with glow sticks.
One of the best winter activities for kids? A scavenger hunt!
See who can collect the most loose change around the house.
Make a stop-motion video.
Dress up and act like your favorite characters.
Make your own weather station.
Have a paper airplane air show.
Play freeze tag inside.
Try minute-to-win-it games.
Ignore the blizzard outside and enjoy a beach-themed party inside.

Other fun winter activities for kids

Come up with a winter tale using story stones.
Have a winter campout indoors.
Read a book.
Have a DIY spa day.
Bundle up and go for a walk.
Learn a magic trick.
Go on a virtual vacation.
Have a family sleepover in the living room.
Have a family talent show.
Use only flashlights after the sun goes down.
Construct a backyard ice rink for skating.
Do random acts of kindness.
Fight the winter blues by making a list of your favorite things.
Set up an indoor obstacle course.
Share old photos with the kids.
Have a pillow fight.
Enjoy free ebooks.
Have a movie marathon.
Add extra bubbles to a warm bath.
Try to recreate your favorite winter memories.
Donate unwanted coats and toys.
Visit an outdoor museum or sculpture garden.
Repurpose old or broken toys.
Drive through a car wash.
Get cozy and listen to audiobooks together.
Make some feeders for the hungry animals outside.

Winter may require a bit more effort to entertain the kids, but it also offers an incredible opportunity to create lasting memories. Whether you’re braving the cold for snowy adventures or cozying up indoors with creative crafts and games, there’s no shortage of ways to make the season magical. So grab your mittens, warm up the cocoa, and dive into these fun-filled activities that will keep the whole family smiling until spring!

The post 101 Fun Winter Activities for Kids first appeared on Endeavor Insurance Group.

Cleaning Up After the Holidays

Tristan Bills — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 16:20:20 +0000

The holidays can do a number on your home! Between house guests, holiday feasts, and kids on school breaks, your house probably need some TLC. Try these tips to clean up and start New Year off on a sparkling clean foot.

Clean Up After House Guests

Give your house’s surfaces a deep clean. Wash all your linens. Vacuum carpets, floors, and baseboards to give yourself a fresh start. Clean out your refrigerator – eat the last of those yummy leftovers and then clean and store your leftover containers.

Clean up Christmas Tree Sap

Rubbing alcohol can remove sap from washable clothing, knit gloves, and rugs, because it acts as a solvent. For clothes, even a down coat, saturate the area with alcohol, let sit for a minute, then launder in warm water with regular detergent. Heat sets stains, so be sure all the sap is gone before using the dryer. Repeat the process if any remains. For sap on a wool coat or leather gloves, the dry cleaner is your best bet. For a rug, spot-test first, then apply alcohol with a cloth; blot with clean parts of the cloth until the sap is gone. Check for recycling services in your community so your tree can be a gift back to Mother Nature that keeps on giving for many years.

Clean and Store Holiday Decorations

How many of us have opened up a box of holiday decorations in November only to find a tangled mess of half-broken lights? Set yourself up for success next year by carefully cleaning and storing your decorations. As you take your decorations down, clean them and store them in closed bins, boxes or plastic bags that are clearly marked. While specialized storage containers may seem like an extravagance, they are designed to keep treasured decorations safe from dust, mold and breakage. If possible, group the decorations in categories like “dining room,” “mantel,” “front door,” etc. That way, you can avoid the decorating frenzy by tackling your home one area at a time.

Prepare For The Rest Of Winter

The holidays may be over but winter probably isn’t! If you live in a cold climate, make sure your home is ready for a few more months of snow and mud. Keep a boot tray near the door for rain or snow soaked footwear. Put mats and throw rugs at all entryways. This will help prevent dirt from being tracked into your home. Before you know it, it’ll be time for spring cleaning!

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5 Tips for Working Out at Home

Tristan Bills — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 14:36:47 +0000

Working out at home come with more distractions than a one-hour class at the gym. It’s easy to prioritize cleaning, family time or cooking dinner.

But there are many simple ways to get moving at home. You don’t need a lot of equipment or space to get into a routine.

Here are five home workout tips to help you start – and stick to – a routine.

1. Choose your at-home workout space

Designate a corner in your home as your workout spot. You only need a space the size of a yoga mat.

It’s best to not exercise in the same place you watch TV, relax, or eat. This will help you focus and stay committed to your workout. (And it’ll help you resist the latest Netflix binge.)

If you work from home, schedule 30 minutes on your calendar to exercise at lunch hour. Or before you start your work day, if you’re a morning person.

Even if you prefer evening workouts, still be sure to schedule it on your phone or calendar. This will help you stick to your workout plan.

2. Put on your gym clothes

Dress like you’re going to the gym. You’ll feel more like exercising when you’re wearing athletic clothes. If your closet feels far away, stock yourself with some workout clothes in a nearby washroom. That way, you can quickly change when it’s time to exercise.

You might also find it helpful to put on your running shoes 15 minutes before you plan to workout. Do some dishes or pick up some toys with your shoes on. It’s a great way to warm up and get a little extra energy before beginning your workout.

3. Don’t worry about equipment

You don’t need that much equipment if any at all.

If you do have basic equipment such as hand weights and a mat, you’ll have lots of options. You don’t need to go into a fitness or sports store and break the bank. You can find inexpensive options online. If you’re going to use weights, it’s a good idea to have two different sets. That way, you can customize your workout and modify as needed.

If you don’t have hand weights and you want to add extra resistance, try soup cans or water bottles. Some other equipment you might find beneficial include resistance bands or a foam roller. They can help you to stretch your muscles before a workout and pamper them afterwards.

Check with your HR department to see if they offer any benefit dollars to pay for equipment or shoes. Some workplaces offer employees an allowance for fitness.

4. Use your devices to get new workouts

Don’t think you can make up your own circuits? That’s okay. There are lots of routines out there, especially on apps.

They feature programs that guide you through daily workouts. You can do them any place, any time – including at home. Many are free. Others have a free trial so you can see if you like them before committing to paying.

You can also try creating a playlist for your workouts. Choose songs that energize you. Occasionally, swap out your playlist to keep things interesting.

5. Set realistic fitness goals

Start slowly, trust your strength, and treat your body well. You don’t have to jump in at full speed.

Instead, commit to what you think is reasonable for your body, and schedule what you can manage each week. Maybe three days a week will work to start. As you become more comfortable, start doing more.

Do you work from home? You might want to consider other ways to stay active. Getting up for a stretch or going outdoors for a walk is a really good way to get moving.

Bonus: 6 reasons to work out at home

No worries about extra germs and crowded spaces.
You can set up your own personal space and choose the music and time.
You don’t need to pack a bag and lock up your valuables.
Skip the commute time and parking fees at the gym.
You get alone time to take care of your physical and mental health.
You get to model prioritizing physical fitness to your children or family.

Workouts are a great way to take care of your mental health, too. Exercising has so many benefits, including helping fight anxiety and depression.

Commit to the time and trust the process, and you’ll be on your way to living a healthier life.

The post 5 Tips for Working Out at Home first appeared on Endeavor Insurance Group.

Utah Increases Minimum Auto Liability Insurance Coverage for 2025

Tristan Bills — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 16:35:28 +0000

Utah is set to implement a change to its auto insurance requirements starting Jan. 1, 2025, increasing the minimum liability coverage limits for all private passenger, commercial and recreational vehicles. This law, established by House Bill 113 (2023), mandates higher financial protections for drivers and businesses alike.

Under the new regulations, the minimum coverage limits will rise to $30,000 for bodily injury liability per person, $65,000 for bodily injury liability per accident, and $25,000 for property damage liability — an increase from the current minimums, which were considered insufficient to cover many of today’s accident costs. These limits will automatically apply to all insurance renewals on or after Jan. 1.

The change is intended to provide greater financial security to all parties involved in accidents.

The new law will also affect uninsured and underinsured motorist coverages. Though the increase aims to offer better coverage, policyholders may notice a rise in premiums. The state advises customers to consult their insurance agents to address any concerns or questions ahead of the renewal period.

No action is required on the part of policyholders, as the changes will be automatically reflected in policy renewals beginning in 2025. However, the Utah Department of Insurance recommends that individuals review their policies and ensure they understand the implications of the new limits.

If you have any questions or would like some quotes with these new limits, please feel free to reach out to The Endeavor Agency at 801-876-1150.

The post Utah Increases Minimum Auto Liability Insurance Coverage for 2025 first appeared on Endeavor Insurance Group.

What is the Cheapest Auto Insurance in Utah?

Tristan Bills — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 12:39:39 +0000

If you’re looking for affordable auto insurance in Utah, you’re not alone. Many drivers are on the hunt for the cheapest coverage, but it’s important to understand that going for the lowest price doesn’t always mean you’re getting the best protection. Still, if saving money is a priority, here’s what you need to know.

Utah’s Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

To drive legally in Utah, you need at least:

$25,000 for bodily injury per person
$65,000 for bodily injury per accident
$15,000 for property damage

Policies that meet these minimums will often be the cheapest, but they might not provide enough coverage in case of a serious accident. Liability-only coverage is the most affordable option but doesn’t cover your vehicle for damages caused by accidents, theft, or weather.

Which Companies Offer the Cheapest Auto Insurance?

Insurance companies like Branch, Root, National General, and Nationwide are known for offering competitive rates without sacrificing essential coverage. By working with a variety of providers, The Endeavor Agency can help you compare options and find the most affordable plan for your needs.

Is Cheap Insurance Right for You?

While saving money is great, keep in mind that the cheapest policy might leave gaps in your coverage. You should weigh the pros and cons based on your driving habits, vehicle value, and personal needs. At The Endeavor Agency, we’ll shop all of these carriers for you with just one application, making it easy to find the most affordable and comprehensive coverage. Request a quote today to start saving!

The post What is the Cheapest Auto Insurance in Utah? first appeared on Endeavor Insurance Group.

What Auto Insurance is the Best in Utah?

Tristan Bills — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 12:38:15 +0000

When you’re shopping for auto insurance in Utah, finding “the best” policy depends on more than just cost. The best auto insurance is the one that protects you and your family with the right amount of coverage tailored to your specific needs.

So, what should you look for when seeking the best auto insurance?

Comprehensive Coverage
This protects your vehicle from non-collision-related incidents such as theft, vandalism, or weather damage.
Collision Coverage
Whether you’re at fault or not, this covers the cost of repairs to your vehicle if you’re in an accident.
Liability Insurance
Utah requires drivers to carry a minimum of $25,000 per person and $65,000 per accident in bodily injury liability, along with $15,000 for property damage. The best auto insurance will offer more than just the minimum to protect your financial assets.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection
This coverage ensures you’re protected if you’re hit by a driver without sufficient insurance.

In Utah, Nationwide, Branch, National General, and Root are among the top-rated insurance providers. These carriers offer not only strong coverage options but also perks like roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and hassle-free claims processes. The best policy is one that offers both protection and peace of mind—coverage you can count on when it matters most.

Which Policy is Best for You?

The best auto insurance fits your personal driving history, vehicle value, and how much protection you need. The Endeavor Agency will shop all of these carriers for you with one application, making it easier than ever to choose the best option for your needs. Contact us today for a customized quote!

The post What Auto Insurance is the Best in Utah? first appeared on Endeavor Insurance Group.

Life Insurance: Essential Protection for LGBTQ Families

Tristan Bills — Sun, 08 Sep 2024 00:22:32 +0000

If you’re LGBTQ, you may be fully exploring what it means to be able to build your life around who you love. Strong legal protections in the last 15 years have ushered in more than just external changes. According to MassMutual financial advisor Mindi Wernick with Lee, Nolan & Koroghlian in New York City, these protections have provided validity and certainty, creating an important psychological shift.

“Now that gay couples are seen in the eyes of the law as equal, they can build their lives around who they love,” she says. “They’re joining finances, and doing more traditional things, like buying life insurance.”

The big shift in life insurance for the LGBTQ community

“Previously, life events like getting married and having children were coming up more often for straight couples,” says Tristan Bills, the owner of The Endeavor Agency, an insurance brokerage in Salt Lake City. “Now things are changing where we have same sex marriage, adoption and surrogacy. We ask about life events with every single customer.”

Even so, according to LIMRA, just 38% of LGBT households own individual life insurance, compared to 44% of the general population. The reasons are deeply historical and often gender-specific.

A stubborn challenge

Life insurance has to do with “money, mortality and who you love, all in one conversation. That’s hard to begin with,” explains Wernick. Historically, LGBTQ people have found this especially challenging. Not long ago, disclosing sexual orientation to the wrong person could be career-ending. “Some of my clients today are still closeted,” she adds.

Hand in hand with this reality: a significant lack of LGBTQ representation in the financial services space. Wernick, mother of three sons with her now-wife and partner of 23 years, reports that she is the only gay woman she knows of in her wealth advisory firm, in an industry where just 24% of the sales force is female. Many gay consumers, especially women, she says, feel “no connection” with a typical insurance agent.

As a result, “LGBTQ people come to the party kind of late, and that’s when coverage is more expensive.” The price of life insurance depends on your age and health, among other factors. The younger and healthier you are, the lower your rate.

The double whammy for lesbian couples

Earning disparities and common gender-based attitudes around money tend to hold women back financially, which can be exacerbated for lesbian couples, says Wernick.

“Women are primed to be proactive about their health. Men are proactive about their wealth. They measure themselves by how much money they have. Women often don’t take their financial lives seriously enough, early enough. We measure ourselves by different standards — by the quality of our relationships, by how much time we spend volunteering, by how much we nurture our talents, by how often we’ve used our Peloton.”

What surprises everyone about life insurance

Gay or straight, however, Wernick says, “I think everyone is surprised at how cheap term life insurance is.” Consumers overestimate the cost of life insurance by up to five times the actual amount, according to the 2021 Insurance Barometer Study, by Life Happens and LIMRA. In fact, a healthy 30-year-old can get a $250,000 20-year level term policy for about $13 a month.

In addition, “Permanent life insurance is an asset that many people don’t realize has dual benefits,” says Sweigart. “It’s a way to transfer wealth, there’s an opportunity to grow cash within the policy, and there are lot of great things you can do with it come retirement.”

Finally, many in the LGBTQ community don’t realize coverage is now possible today for those who are HIV positive, and for those who are transgender.

Protecting hard-won gains

Today, LGBTQ people live in a world hard to imagine just a couple of decades ago. Life insurance can help protect hard-won gains and provide living benefits.

“Seek somebody out that you feel comfortable with and you feel is a good fit. Look for an organization that’s financially stable and strong,” says Sweigart. “And shop around for coverage that works for you. There’s a policy that’s right for every situation. If price is a critical question, something is better than nothing.”

Finally, he says, if you’re HIV positive or transgender, “Don’t be discouraged to apply.”

“It’s getting better out there,” says Wernick. “You can’t be fired for being out, so we’re better able to take care of each other and build a life now. People are coming out younger, so they’re partnering younger and having families. So the trends are moving in the right direction, and gay people are seeing that they need life insurance just like any other couple.”

Working with an insurance professional like Tristan or Mindi is a great way to learn more and get coverage.

The post Life Insurance: Essential Protection for LGBTQ Families first appeared on Endeavor Insurance Group.