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General Questions
What types of insurance does Smart Insurance offer?
We offer comprehensive insurance solutions including:
- Auto Insurance - Liability, collision, comprehensive, and more
- Health Insurance - Individual, family, ACA marketplace plans
- Life Insurance - Term, whole, universal, and final expense
- Home Insurance - Homeowners, renters, condo, and landlord
- Business Insurance - General liability, commercial property, workers comp
How many insurance companies do you work with?
We partner with over 50 top-rated insurance carriers including State Farm, GEICO, Progressive, Allstate, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Northwestern Mutual, and many more. This allows us to compare rates and find you the best coverage at competitive prices.
How quickly can I get a quote?
You can get instant online quotes by filling out our forms, and we'll provide personalized quotes within 24 hours. For immediate assistance, call us at (713) 592-6724 and speak with a licensed agent right away.
Is there a cost for your services?
No, our consultation and quote comparison services are completely free. You only pay the insurance premium directly to the carrier you choose. We're compensated by the insurance companies, so there's no cost to you.
Are your agents licensed?
Yes, all of our insurance specialists are licensed professionals with years of experience in the insurance industry. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions about your coverage.
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Auto Insurance
What's the minimum auto insurance required by law?
Minimum requirements vary by state, but typically include liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage. Most states require at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage. We can help you understand your state's specific requirements.
What factors affect my auto insurance rates?
Several factors influence your rates including:
- Your driving record and accident history
- Age, gender, and marital status
- Vehicle make, model, and year
- Where you live and park your car
- Annual mileage and how you use your vehicle
- Credit score and insurance history
What discounts are available for auto insurance?
Common discounts include multi-policy bundling, safe driver discounts, good student discounts, defensive driving course completion, anti-theft devices, and loyalty discounts. We help identify all available discounts to maximize your savings.
What is comprehensive vs collision coverage?
Collision coverage pays for damage to your car from accidents with other vehicles or objects. Comprehensive coverage pays for damage from theft, vandalism, weather, fire, or hitting an animal. Both have deductibles you choose.
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Health Insurance
When can I enroll in health insurance?
You can enroll during the annual Open Enrollment Period (November 1 - January 15 for most states) or during a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify due to life events like marriage, birth of a child, job loss, or moving to a new area.
What are premium tax credits and subsidies?
Premium tax credits are government subsidies that help reduce your monthly insurance premiums. Most Americans qualify for these credits if their household income is between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level. We help determine your eligibility and maximize your savings.
What's the difference between HMO, PPO, and EPO plans?
HMO plans require you to choose a primary care physician and get referrals for specialists, but typically cost less. PPO plans offer more flexibility to see any provider but cost more. EPO plans are a middle ground with no referrals needed but you must stay in-network.
What is a deductible and how does it work?
A deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance starts covering costs. For example, with a $1,000 deductible, you pay the first $1,000 of covered medical expenses, then your insurance kicks in. Higher deductibles typically mean lower monthly premiums.
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Life Insurance
How much life insurance do I need?
A common rule of thumb is 10-12 times your annual income, but your actual needs depend on your debts, dependents, and financial goals. Consider factors like mortgage balance, children's education costs, and your family's living expenses. We can help calculate the right amount for your situation.
What's the difference between term and whole life insurance?
Term life provides coverage for a specific period (10, 20, or 30 years) at lower costs but has no cash value. Whole life provides permanent coverage with cash value accumulation but costs more. Term is often better for temporary needs, while whole life works for permanent protection and wealth building.
Do I need a medical exam for life insurance?
It depends on your age, health, and coverage amount. Many policies require a medical exam, but we also offer no-exam life insurance options for those who qualify. The exam is typically free and can be done at your home or workplace for convenience.
Can I convert my term life policy to permanent insurance?
Most term life policies include a conversion feature that allows you to convert to permanent life insurance without a medical exam, typically within the first 10-20 years of the policy. This can be valuable if your health changes or your needs evolve.
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Home Insurance
What does homeowners insurance cover?
Standard homeowners insurance typically covers:
- Dwelling coverage for your home's structure
- Personal property protection for belongings
- Liability coverage for injuries on your property
- Additional living expenses if you can't live at home
- Medical payments for guest injuries
Is flood damage covered by homeowners insurance?
No, standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. You need separate flood insurance, which is available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers. We can help you determine if you need flood coverage based on your location.
How can I lower my home insurance premiums?
Ways to reduce premiums include installing security systems, smoke detectors, and storm shutters; bundling with auto insurance; increasing your deductible; maintaining good credit; and shopping around annually for better rates.
What is replacement cost vs actual cash value?
Replacement cost coverage pays to rebuild or replace your home and belongings at current prices. Actual cash value pays replacement cost minus depreciation. Replacement cost coverage costs more but provides better protection.
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Business Insurance
What business insurance do I need for my small business?
Most small businesses need:
- General liability insurance for third-party claims
- Professional liability if you provide services
- Commercial property insurance for equipment and inventory
- Workers' compensation if you have employees
- Cyber liability for data protection
What is a Business Owner's Policy (BOP)?
A BOP bundles general liability and commercial property insurance into one convenient policy, often at a lower cost than buying them separately. It's designed for small to medium-sized businesses and can include business interruption coverage.
Is workers' compensation insurance required?
Requirements vary by state, but most states require workers' compensation if you have employees. It covers medical expenses and lost wages for work-related injuries and protects your business from lawsuits. Some states have different requirements based on industry or number of employees.
What is cyber liability insurance and do I need it?
Cyber liability insurance protects against data breaches, cyber attacks, and technology failures. If your business stores customer data, accepts credit cards, or relies on computers, you likely need this coverage. It can cover legal fees, notification costs, and business interruption from cyber incidents.