Category Archives: Insurance

Dental Savings Plans vs. Dental Insurance: Which is Best?

Dental care can be expensive. In fact, Americans spent an astounding $189 billion on dental expenses in 2024 alone. Fortunately, Lakewood, CO, residents looking to save money have options, such as purchasing a dental savings plan or dental insurance.

Dental Savings Plans

With a dental savings plan, you pay an annual fee (and possibly an enrollment fee, depending on the program) in exchange for discounted dental care from dentists within the plan’s network. Prices are predetermined, so you’ll know exactly how much you’ll spend at each visit to your chosen dentist. Some plans offer additional perks, such as discounts on medications and wellness programs, while others provide tiered membership levels that allow you to pay extra for better discounts or access to a larger network of providers. Dental savings plans activate immediately upon purchase, and many cover pre-existing conditions.

Dental Insurance

Dental insurance typically covers 100% of preventive care. The co-pay rate for other types of care depends on the policy you select and your deductible. Dental insurance is ideal for individuals seeking access to a broad network of dental providers and those looking to save money on routine dental visits. However, most policies include a “waiting period” before coverage becomes active, and pre-existing conditions are generally not covered.

Call Colling Insurance Services Inc. for More Information

Colling Insurance Services Inc. specializes in helping residents of Lakewood, CO, find insurance that fits their needs and budget. We offer dental insurance policies from multiple carriers and can help you review your options to find the best coverage. Contact us today for more information or to request price quotes.

Types of Health Insurance Needed for Emergency Care

Dealing with an emergency medical situation can be unpredictable, unavoidable, and expensive if you’re not prepared. Having the right insurance can make all the difference when you require emergency care. If you’re located in Lakewood, CO, Colling Insurance Services Inc. is here to help you navigate the process of finding an insurance policy that works for you year-round.

Employer-Sponsored Healthcare

If you have a traditional job, many full-time positions offer employer-sponsored healthcare. These plans often cover emergency visits, hospital stays, and ambulance services, depending on the specifics of your plan. Even if the doctor you see is out of network, federal protections require insurers to treat true emergencies as in-network for billing purposes.

Individual Plans

You can also purchase a health insurance policy independently through the online marketplace. These plans are required to cover emergency care without prior authorization. While coverage is guaranteed, your out-of-pocket costs may vary depending on the type of policy you select.

Medicaid

Medicaid is another option to consider, especially if you’re currently unemployed or unable to work. Medicaid provides emergency medical coverage for low-income individuals and families. Emergency room visits, hospital care, and medically necessary ambulance rides are covered under Medicaid, regardless of your age or specific needs.

Understanding the type of medical insurance you need for emergency situations is essential to avoid financial stress and complications. If you’re located in Lakewood, CO, Colling Insurance Services Inc. can help you find a policy that suits your needs and those of your household. Contact us directly for a quote and consultation to learn more about your options today.

Is Your Business Required To Get Workers’ Comp Insurance?

One of the most important things a business can do is protect its workers. Workers’ compensation insurance helps protect employees who have been injured on the job.

If you are a business owner, having workers’ comp insurance can help protect your employees from the financial difficulty that medical bills can cause. The professionals at Colling Insurance Services, Inc., servicing Lakewood, CO, can help you find a workers’ comp policy for your needs. Here’s what you need to know. 

What Is Workers’ Comp Insurance?

Workers’ comp insurance pays medical bills due to medical conditions and injuries that workers experience on the job. Workers’ comp insurance is not like normal health insurance because it only pays bills related to medical conditions that occur because of a worker’s job. 

If Your Business Has Employees, You Should Have Workers’ Comp Insurance

Businesses with employees operating in Colorado are required to have workers’ comp for their employees. If you believe that your business may be exempt from workers’ comp insurance for any reason, you can contact Colorado’s Department of Labor and Employment to find out whether you are required to have workers’ comp. 

How Can You Get Workers’ Comp Insurance?

To get workers’ comp for your business, start by contacting an insurance company you can trust. Your insurance company can help you by shopping around for a policy that fits your needs. Call us at Colling Insurance Services, Inc., servicing Lakewood, CO.

We can also answer your questions about workers’ comp to help you determine what level of coverage is required for your business. Call today to speak with one of our insurance professionals. We handle all calls with professionalism and courtesy to help ensure a good experience when shopping for insurance. 

Your On-Board Emergency Kit: What To Pack for On-the-Water First Aid

Boating is one of life’s great pleasures, but even the calmest day on the water can turn unpredictable. Having a well-stocked first-aid kit on board ensures you’re ready for minor injuries or medical issues until professional help arrives. Here’s what to include in your on-the-water emergency kit.

Essential First-Aid Supplies

Start with the basics: adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, medical tape, tweezers, scissors, and disposable gloves. Include a digital thermometer and instant cold packs for treating minor cuts, scrapes, and bruises. A waterproof first-aid manual is also a smart addition, especially for situations where communication may be limited.

Medications and Ointments

Pack pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, seasickness tablets, and antihistamines for allergic reactions. Include hydrocortisone cream for insect bites, antibiotic ointment for preventing infection, and aloe vera gel for sunburn relief. If anyone in your group requires prescription medication, store extra doses in a waterproof container.

Marine-Specific Items

Because water introduces unique risks, include items tailored to boating. Saline solution can rinse saltwater or debris from eyes and wounds. A space blanket helps prevent hypothermia, while a tourniquet and elastic bandages can manage more serious injuries until help arrives. Consider adding a waterproof flashlight, emergency whistle, and signaling mirror for visibility and communication.

Storage and Maintenance

Keep all supplies in a durable, waterproof container labeled “First Aid.” Store it in an easily accessible location, and check expiration dates every season. Replace used or outdated items promptly. Your preparedness can make a crucial difference when emergencies strike offshore.

Colling Insurance Services Inc. Is Proud To Provide Boat Insurance to Lakewood, CO

At Colling Insurance Services Inc., our team is here to make sure you’re protected on the water. We’re proud to serve residents of Lakewood, CO. Contact our team to learn more about our boat insurance services.

Will Umbrella Insurance Pay for a Car Seat After an Accident?

Many people in Lakewood, CO, have umbrella insurance to help protect their assets. However, it’s essential to understand how it works and what your policy will cover before an emergency, such as a car accident, occurs. 

Umbrella Insurance Is Secondary Insurance

Umbrella policies don’t immediately kick in to pay for damages. Instead, your auto policy will kick in first. Then, if there isn’t enough coverage, your umbrella policy will usually pay for the rest. For example, if you’re responsible for $90,000 in property damage, but your auto insurance only covers $50,000, your umbrella policy will likely pay for the remaining $40,000 (or up to your policy limit). 

Liability Insurance

These policies are a form of liability insurance. Liability insurance will pay for the other person’s damages or bodily injury if you’re at fault in an accident. It doesn’t pay for your personal property, ilike damages to your car or car seat. Because of that, it’s unlikely to pay for a new car seat after an accident. There are other options, though. 

Options Available

Always check with an agent at Colling Insurance Services Inc. to learn more about your coverage. Your policy may pay for your car seat if the other driver is found to be at fault but doesn’t have enough coverage. Some auto policies will automatically reimburse you for a new car seat, too. It’s best to speak with a professional to see what options you have. 

Here at Colling Insurance Services Inc., we understand the importance of keeping your children safe and following safety guidelines for replacing a car seat after an accident. Our agents will work with you to learn more about your policies. Contact us to speak with a representative. We’re currently serving the Lakewood, CO, area. 

How Is The Death Benefit Disbursed?

Life insurance in Lakewood can help cover funeral expenses and provide financial stability for families after the loss of a loved one. Understanding how the death benefit works is essential to know what to expect.

Beneficiaries

While the policyholder is alive, they can designate beneficiaries to receive the death benefit. Beneficiaries can be anyone the policyholder chooses, including friends or family members. Typically, the insurance company requires the beneficiary’s birthdate and Social Security number to ensure the benefit is distributed to the correct person. The specific information needed may vary by company, so it’s important to consult Colling Insurance Services Inc. to confirm the requirements.

Disbursement

After the policyholder passes away, it’s crucial to notify the insurance company promptly. If the policy was obtained through the policyholder’s workplace, you may need to inform their employer as well. The insurance company will usually verify the death before proceeding with the disbursement.

In cases where suspicious circumstances arise, such as an ongoing murder investigation, the company may delay the disbursement to ensure the death was not caused by foul play. This precaution is standard practice and not a personal judgment.

Once verification is complete, the death benefit is typically disbursed within a few weeks. However, the exact timeline can vary depending on the company. To get a clearer understanding of the timeframe, speak with an agent at Colling Insurance Services Inc.

Most companies deposit the funds directly into an account that beneficiaries can access immediately. Alternatively, some companies may send a check if preferred. The method of disbursement depends on the company and the policyholder’s preferences.

Life insurance policies and procedures can change over time, so it’s important to stay informed. Contact Colling Insurance Services Inc. today to learn more about life insurance options. We are located in the Lakewood, CO area.

The Future of Medicaid and Long-Term Care

Older adults who require long-term care often need to reduce their assets and rely on Medicaid to cover expenses. However, with current and potential future changes to Medicaid, access to the program for long-term care may become uncertain. In Lakewood, CO, long-term care insurance obtained through a broker like Colling Insurance Services, Inc., can help alleviate concerns about Medicaid.

Medicaid Is Still Available Now, but What About the Future?

Medicaid has long been a primary source of financial support for long-term care. However, budget cuts and the possibility of significant changes to the program mean that individuals must consider alternative ways to pay for care if Medicaid coverage becomes insufficient or unavailable. While some families may consider caring for older relatives themselves, the reality is that caregiving can be an overwhelming drain on both mental and physical resources, as well as financial resources.

Your family may not be equipped to provide the level of care required if your health demands professional or intensive support. In such cases, elder care facilities, including assisted living, memory care, or nursing homes, often become the safer and more practical option. However, these facilities are significantly more expensive than staying at home, raising the question of how to cover the costs.

Many people reduce their assets to qualify for Medicaid, which can help pay for residential care. But if Medicaid coverage is reduced or eliminated for long-term care, you’ll need an alternative plan to protect your financial future.

Long-term care insurance can cover a substantial portion, or even most, of the costs associated with long-term care, depending on the policy. While coverage limits may apply, working with a broker like Colling Insurance Services, Inc., in Lakewood, CO, can help you find a policy tailored to your projected care needs. This approach allows you to safeguard your assets while ensuring access to quality care.

Contact Colling Insurance Services, Inc., today to explore long-term care insurance options and secure your future. We proudly serve the Lakewood, CO, area.

I’m Young and Healthy, Why Do I Need Health Insurance?

When we are young and healthy, health insurance often feels like a low priority. If you’re feeling great and have no medical complaints, you might wonder why you should invest in a health plan. It’s a valid question. For our Lakewood, CO, community of young and healthy adults, the agents at Colling Insurance Services Inc. can explain the long-term benefits of health insurance that can positively impact your financial and physical well-being now and in the future.

Three Key Reasons Why Health Insurance Is Recommended for the Young and Healthy

Reduces Out-of-Pocket Costs

While your health may be stable now, unexpected accidents or medical illnesses can occur at any time. No one is immune, regardless of age. Without health insurance, the cost of treatments and medications becomes your sole responsibility, which can be financially overwhelming.

Protects Your Financial Stability

Paying for medical bills out of pocket can have significant and long-lasting effects on your financial health. Health insurance helps mitigate these costs, ensuring you don’t face financial hardship due to unforeseen medical expenses.

Supports Your Overall Health

Even if you feel well now, underlying medical issues can go unnoticed without regular check-ups. Health insurance allows you to maintain good health by scheduling routine appointments with your primary care physician. Preventive services ensure your doctor has an ongoing record of your health, enabling early detection and treatment of potential health concerns.

Contact Us

If you’re unsure whether getting health insurance in Lakewood, CO, is the right decision for you, call Colling Insurance Services Inc. We can discuss why securing health coverage while you’re young and healthy is a strategic move for your future. Contact us today to explore policy options tailored to your needs.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Emergencies?

Taking care of your teeth is an essential part of maintaining your overall health. Many people purchase dental insurance to help cover the costs of dental care. If you are near Lakewood, CO, our team at Colling Insurance Services Inc. can provide the information you need about dental insurance. We’ve been assisting clients like you since 1957.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Emergencies?

Even if you take excellent care of your teeth and visit your dentist regularly, dental emergencies can still happen. When they do, the cost of treatment is often the last thing on your mind. According to Legal Clarity, coverage for dental emergencies varies depending on the specific dental insurance policy.

Routine dental care, such as x-rays and exams, is typically covered by standard dental insurance policies. Many policies also offer a fixed amount of coverage for certain emergency procedures, such as tooth extractions or crown replacements. However, some policies determine coverage for unexpected procedures on a case-by-case basis. To avoid surprises, it’s best to review your policy’s provisions before an emergency occurs. If your current policy doesn’t meet your needs, one of our agents can help you explore new insurance options.

Call Us for Your Appointment Today

Dental procedures can be costly, but dental insurance can help ease the financial burden. Our team at Colling Insurance Services Inc. has the expertise and dedication to provide you with the insurance options you need. Clients in the Lakewood, CO, area trust us for excellent customer support. Call us today to schedule an appointment and discuss your insurance needs.

Is Umbrella Insurance Worth the Extra Cost?

Whether you are a homeowner or renter, having insurance is essential to protect your investment in property and valuable personal belongings. Umbrella insurance provides additional coverage when your standard policy’s limits are reached, offering protection for your assets in Lakewood, CO, in situations such as lawsuits. With assistance from our well-qualified and experienced agents at Colling Insurance Services Inc., we can help you determine if umbrella insurance is the right choice for your needs.

Reasons to Consider Umbrella Insurance

Homeowners typically carry homeowners insurance that covers their home and personal belongings. Renters of houses or condos may opt for renters’ insurance, which protects their personal belongings while the structure itself is covered by the owner’s or association’s insurance policy. Umbrella insurance acts as an extra layer of liability coverage that activates when your other insurance policies have reached their limits. This type of policy does not cover your personal property. Instead, it provides protection for unexpected events where you are held responsible, such as damage to someone else’s property or injuries to others.

When Umbrella Insurance May Not Be Necessary

Not everyone needs umbrella insurance. When you speak with an agent at Colling Insurance Services Inc., we will evaluate your situation, including your net worth, lifestyle, and current liability coverage, to help you decide if umbrella insurance is a worthwhile investment. For individuals with minimal assets and a low-risk lifestyle, umbrella insurance may not be necessary. However, if you have significant assets that could be at risk when your existing policy’s liability limits are exceeded, purchasing umbrella insurance is highly recommended.

Contact Us

If you live in the Lakewood, CO, community, contact our team to discuss any questions you may have about umbrella insurance and whether purchasing coverage is the right decision for you.