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Life Insurance Articles
Business Life Insurance
There was a time when you spoke or thought of life insurance that it was for the sole purpose of taking and providing for your loved ones for when the time comes that you are no longer able to do so. Though in present times, insurance companies have become very sensitive and responsive to the various needs of our clients and the marketplace. Now life insurance is not only used for protecting loved ones, but also for business reasons, such as buy-sell agreements, business continuation, and key employee protection.
Business Continuation
One of the first things any business owner needs to consider is how to protect against events that may threaten the future of the business, like the death or disability of a proprietor, partner, or key employee.
Buy-Sell Agreements
Life insurance also can be structured to fund a buy-sell agreement. This is a contract among owners to buy a deceased owner’s share of the business at a previously agreed-upon price in the event of death, disability, or retirement.
Why are these agreements so important? You might think that if you die, your family could maintain their income by running the business themselves or by hiring someone to handle the day-to-day management. The fact is, your loved ones may not have the skills or the desire for the job, and your co-owners may not welcome the idea of an unintended partner. With a properly structured and funded buy-sell agreement, your business partners won’t have to scramble to come up with the money to buy out your share of the business, and you’ll be guaranteed that your survivors will be compensated fairly and promptly.
Buy-sell agreements are typically funded by life insurance policies purchased on the lives of each of the business owners. The amount is usually specified in a contract created with the help of an attorney. You can enter into a buy-sell agreement at any time, but it often makes sense to do so when a business is formed or when new owners are brought into the business. Because business values can fluctuate, it’s important to review the contract with your accountant at least once per year or to include a calculation method in the agreement. Also be sure the insurance coverage funding the agreement is up to date.
Business owners can also insure against the risk of becoming disabled and unable to work. In this case, disability income buyout insurance would fund the buy-sell agreement, allowing the disabled owners to be bought out, typically after a one-year waiting period.
Key Person Insurance
Key person insurance is another essential component of a smart business continuation plan. Key person insurance is life or disability insurance purchased by the business on such an employee and payable to the business. When a key person dies or becomes disabled, insurance can help make up for lost sales or earnings or cover the cost of finding or training a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get coverage for my personal belongings on the boat?
Yes, many boaters insurance policies offer coverage for personal belongings such as clothing, fishing gear, electronics, and other personal items that are kept on the boat.
What should I do if I need to file a claim for my boat?
If you need to file a claim for your boat, contact your insurance company or agent as soon as possible to report the incident. They will guide you through the claims process and provide assistance in assessing the damage and arranging repairs.
Where can I purchase boaters insurance?
You can purchase boaters insurance from insurance companies that specialize in marine insurance, as well as from independent insurance agents or brokers who offer boat insurance policies from multiple insurers.
You can also give us a call and schedule a no-cost consultation where we can help you understand your options! Call us at 417-883-9300 or click “Call Now” below:
