Category Archives: Insurance

Starting Self Employment? Get Health Insurance With an Insurance Agent You Trust

Being self-employed offers freedom and flexibility, but it also means taking full responsibility for your health insurance coverage. While working for yourself allows you to control your schedule and business decisions, it also requires careful planning to ensure you and your family are protected. Finding the right health insurance plan is an essential part of maintaining your well-being and financial stability.

Many self-employed individuals turn to the professionals at Colling Insurance Services Inc., servicing Lakewood, CO, for guidance. Their experienced team can answer your questions and help you compare options to find a policy that aligns with your needs and budget.

What to Look for in a Health Insurance Agent

Choosing the right insurance agent is an important first step. A knowledgeable and reliable agent can simplify the process and help you make informed decisions. Look for an agent who demonstrates:

  • Industry expertise: A strong understanding of health insurance policies and coverage options.
  • Clear communication: The ability to explain details in a way that is easy to understand.
  • Responsiveness: Prompt replies to your questions and consistent follow-through.
  • Customer-focused service: A commitment to helping you find the best coverage for your situation.

How an Independent Insurance Agent Can Help

Independent insurance agents work with multiple insurance carriers, which allows them to compare a variety of plans on your behalf. Instead of researching policies on your own, your agent can gather quotes, evaluate coverage options, and recommend plans that fit your specific needs.

This approach saves you time and effort while ensuring you have access to competitive pricing and comprehensive coverage. Independent agents take the stress out of shopping for health insurance so you can focus on growing your business.

Getting Started with Health Insurance as a Self-Employed Professional

If you are newly self-employed or reassessing your current coverage, now is the time to explore your options. Consider your healthcare needs, budget, and any dependents who may also require coverage. Reviewing these factors will help you identify the most suitable plan.

The professionals at Colling Insurance Services Inc., servicing Lakewood, CO, are ready to guide you through the process. Contact their team today to learn more about available health insurance options and find coverage that supports your lifestyle and financial goals.

What to Consider When Choosing Dental Insurance

Dental insurance is an affordable way to protect your oral health and maintain a healthy smile. However, many people feel overwhelmed when choosing a plan due to the variety of coverage options available. Understanding the basics can help you select a policy that best fits your needs.

At Colling Insurance Services, Inc., we work with you to better understand your unique situation. If you are considering dental insurance in Lakewood, CO, our team can help you customize a policy that aligns with your budget and long-term oral health goals.

Key Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Dental Insurance

Before you purchase a dental insurance policy, it is important to evaluate several key factors to ensure you are choosing the right coverage.

  • Plan Type and Network: Dental insurance plans typically include options such as Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), Dental Health Maintenance Organizations (DHMOs), and indemnity plans. Each offers different levels of flexibility, provider choice, and cost.
  • Coverage Needs: Most plans cover preventive services such as cleanings, exams, and X-rays. However, you should also consider whether you may need more advanced procedures, such as fillings, crowns, or orthodontic care, either now or in the future.
  • Out-of-Pocket Costs: Review the deductible, copayments, coinsurance, and annual maximums associated with each plan. Choosing the right balance between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket expenses is key to finding a plan that fits your budget.

In addition to these factors, be sure to compare waiting periods for certain services before coverage begins and confirm whether your preferred dentist is included in the plan network. If you anticipate needing specialized or major dental work, verify that the policy provides adequate coverage for those services.

Choose Dental Coverage with Confidence

You do not have to navigate your options alone. The professionals at Colling Insurance Services, Inc. are here to guide you through your choices and help you select a plan that meets your needs. We offer competitive dental insurance options in Lakewood, CO, designed to provide both value and peace of mind.

Contact our team today to explore your options and take the next step toward protecting your smile.

 

Worker’s Comp Insurance: What If Someone’s Drunk On The Job?

Workers’ compensation insurance helps employees cover medical expenses if they are injured on the job. In many cases, it can also replace a portion of lost income, helping employees and their families manage financial obligations while the injured worker recovers. Most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, but there are important exclusions business owners should understand.

When Workers’ Compensation Coverage May Be Denied

Workers’ compensation insurance generally covers injuries that occur in the course of employment, regardless of fault. However, most policies exclude coverage if an employee is injured while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If intoxication is determined to be the direct cause of the injury, the claim may be denied.

Why Reporting Suspected Intoxication Matters

If an employer believes an employee may have been impaired at the time of an injury, it is important to notify the insurance carrier promptly. Employers are still required to file the claim and provide necessary paperwork, but honesty during the reporting process is critical. Insurance providers, including Colling Insurance Services Inc., regularly assist employers in Lakewood, CO with navigating these situations properly.

The Role of Drug and Alcohol Testing

In workers’ compensation cases involving suspected intoxication, proof is required. Employers and insurance carriers typically rely on mandated drug and alcohol testing to establish impairment. Observations alone, such as the smell of alcohol or unusual behavior, are usually not sufficient. Many workers’ compensation policies include guidelines for post-accident testing to help determine eligibility for coverage.

In most cases, the employee submits a claim, and the insurance provider determines whether coverage applies. If a claim is denied due to intoxication, understanding the process is essential. The agents at Colling Insurance Services Inc. can explain how workers’ compensation claims are handled and what steps employers should take. We proudly serve the Lakewood, CO area and are available to help you better understand your responsibilities and coverage options.

Am I A Good Candidate for Umbrella Insurance?

If you have home insurance or auto insurance, you may have considered umbrella insurance. If you are undecided and want to know whether this type of policy is right for you, the professionals at Colling Insurance Services Inc., servicing Lakewood, CO, can help.

We provide clear, helpful information about umbrella insurance so our customers can make informed decisions. As an independent insurance agency, we work with multiple insurance carriers, giving you access to more options. If you choose umbrella insurance through our agency, we will help you select a policy that fits your budget while providing the level of protection you need.

What Is Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella insurance provides additional liability coverage once the limits of your home insurance or auto insurance policy have been reached. This type of policy is designed to help protect your assets if you are held legally responsible for injuries or property damage.

It is important to note that umbrella insurance only extends liability coverage. It does not increase or replace property coverage for your home or physical damage coverage for your vehicle.

How Do You Get Umbrella Insurance?

To obtain umbrella insurance, start by contacting an insurance agent you trust. Working with an experienced and responsive agent is essential, as umbrella policies must be properly coordinated with your existing home and auto insurance coverage.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Umbrella Insurance?

You may be a good candidate for umbrella insurance if your assets exceed the liability limits of your home or auto insurance policies. If you are sued, umbrella insurance can provide additional financial protection to help safeguard those assets.

You may also benefit from umbrella insurance if you face a higher risk of liability claims. Owning a swimming pool, trampoline, rental property, or hosting frequent guests can increase the likelihood of accidents that may result in lawsuits.

Interested in Umbrella Insurance? Call Today

If you are interested in umbrella insurance, Colling Insurance Services Inc., servicing Lakewood, CO, is here to help. Contact us today to request a quote and learn how an umbrella policy can enhance your overall protection.

Insurance Protection for Occasions When Your Boat Is Dry Docked

Your boat insurance policy can provide coverage even when your boat is dry docked. This type of coverage may protect against theft, vandalism, certain natural disasters, and liability incidents. Understanding your coverage options can help you choose protection that fits how and where your boat is stored.

Dry Dock Location Considerations

Start by evaluating where your boat will be dry docked. Consider the level of security at the location. Boats stored in uncovered areas or locations without security features may face a higher risk of theft or damage.

The storage location plays a role in determining how much insurance coverage you may need. Boat insurance can help cover losses caused by criminal acts, severe weather, or liability incidents if your boat causes injury to someone or damage to their property.

Weather Patterns

Weather conditions in the area where your boat is stored should also be considered. Boats dry docked in regions prone to storms, high winds, or heavy snowfall may be more vulnerable to damage. Adding or adjusting coverage can help protect against repair or replacement costs resulting from extreme weather.

Length of Storage Time

Think about how long your boat will remain dry docked. Short-term storage may pose fewer risks, especially if the boat is regularly monitored.

If your boat will be left unattended for an extended period, additional coverage may be beneficial. Extended storage can increase exposure to unforeseen events, making broader protection a smart choice.

Find Boat Insurance in Lakewood, CO

For help reviewing your boat insurance coverage, consult an agent at Colling Insurance Services Inc. An experienced agent can help ensure your policy provides the protection you need while your boat is dry docked.

Can I name a charity as my Life insurance policy beneficiary?

The rise in single-person households has led many dog and cat owners to plan their financial legacy differently. Without a traditional nuclear family, some individuals wonder whether they can leave their life insurance proceeds to a charity.

Colling Insurance Services Inc. in Lakewood, CO is here to explain your options.

Life Insurance Beneficiary Options

If you are single and do not have children, you have plenty of company. More people are choosing independent lifestyles, and many want their assets to support meaningful causes rather than go unused.

Life insurance allows you to choose almost any beneficiary you wish. This includes nonprofit organizations, charitable foundations, and animal rescue groups. Naming a charity as your beneficiary ensures that your hard-earned assets will support a cause you believe in.

As the policy owner, you are fully in control of who receives the proceeds. Selecting a charity you value can offer peace of mind and make a lasting impact.

Changing Your Beneficiary at Any Time

When you take out a life insurance policy, you will be asked to name a beneficiary. However, this decision is not permanent. You can update or change your beneficiary at any time by contacting your insurance agent or provider.

If you decide to support a different organization or update your plans in the future, simply request a change-of-beneficiary form. Always review your policy periodically to ensure it matches your current wishes.

Colling Insurance Services Inc. Is Here to Help

If you are exploring life insurance options, Colling Insurance Services Inc. in Lakewood, CO can help you find the right policy. Call 303-987-3331 to learn more and request a personalized quote.

What Is Hybrid Long-Term Care Insurance?

Long-term care insurance is an effective way to prepare for future needs and protect your finances if you require ongoing care. Because long-term care policies come in many forms, understanding your options is essential when selecting the coverage that will support you best. One option worth considering is hybrid long-term care insurance. If you are ready to explore insurance solutions that help secure your future, Colling Insurance Services Inc. in Lakewood, CO, is here to assist you.

Why Choose Hybrid Long-Term Care Insurance?

Hybrid long-term care insurance combines permanent life insurance with long-term care coverage. Although it may cost more than a traditional long-term care policy and may offer lower coverage amounts in some cases, this type of policy provides several meaningful advantages.

  • Extended coverage that addresses gaps where traditional long-term care insurance may fall short, especially if benefits are not used as expected.
  • Locked-in premiums that help keep long-term costs consistent over time.
  • Access to additional benefits if long-term care expenses exceed what you have available.
  • Dual‑purpose protection that supports your care needs and provides financial benefits to your family through the life insurance component.

Find the Right Coverage With Colling Insurance Services Inc.

Choosing the right type of insurance can be challenging, especially with so many options available. Colling Insurance Services Inc. in Lakewood, CO, can simplify the process by helping you compare policies and understand your choices. Because long-term care insurance cannot be quoted online, the agency invites you to contact them directly for assistance. Reach out here

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.