What Should You Consider When Purchasing Workers Comp Insurance For the First Time

Starting a business comes with many firsts, from hiring your first employee to ensuring you’re protected in case something goes wrong. At Fuhriman Insurance Agency in Boise, ID, we help business owners navigate one of those key first steps: purchasing workers’ compensation insurance. If you’re doing this for the first time, there are a few important things to keep in mind.

Know Your State Requirements

Every state has its own set of rules regarding workers’ compensation, and Idaho is no exception. Some businesses are required to carry coverage as soon as they hire their first employee, while others may have more flexibility. Understanding what’s legally required is the first step to staying compliant and avoiding fines or penalties.

Understand Your Industry Risks

Not all jobs carry the same level of risk. For example, a construction company faces different hazards than a small accounting firm. Your premium will be influenced by the work your employees perform, so it’s important to classify job roles accurately. Being honest and precise helps ensure you don’t overpay—or worse, face a denied claim down the line.

Think Beyond the Minimum

It’s tempting to meet the legal requirements and move on, but quality workers’ compensation coverage goes beyond compliance. It’s about protecting your employees and your business. Look for a policy that offers robust support in the event of an accident, including return-to-work programs and claims assistance.

At Fuhriman Insurance Agency in Boise, ID, we specialize in helping businesses understand and secure the right workers’ compensation insurance. If you’re purchasing coverage for the first time, let’s talk. We’ll guide you through the process and ensure you feel confident every step of the way.

Power Failures and Renters Insurance: What’s Covered

Power outages can occur in Boise, ID, at any time for a variety of reasons. They can last several hours to several weeks, depending on the severity. While many use the downtime to figure out how to navigate and recover from it, one overlooked option is their renters’ insurance from Fuhriman Insurance Agency.

Is Renters’ Insurance Reliable During a Power Outage?

It depends on what caused the power to go out and what happened during the outage. Renters’ insurance policies typically cover the following causes:

  • A lightning strike to the rental location or electrical equipment nearby
  • High winds breaking power lines or damaging electrical equipment
  • Damage to nearby power lines caused by an object falling on them
  • Electrical system destruction caused by fire

Power outages caused by flooding are typically covered under flood insurance policies. If you’ve added earthquake coverage, you would have protection for outages caused by earthquakes. However, renters’ insurance typically does not cover power grid failures, utility company issues, or outages that occur outside the coverage area.

What Does Renters’ Insurance Cover During a Power Outage?

Acceptable situations covered in your renters’ insurance policy include temporary housing and spoiled food. For spoiled food, the average reimbursement is $500, though this amount varies by carrier. For temporary housing coverage—such as hotel stays, laundry, storage, and meals—the rental area must be deemed uninhabitable. If you qualify, coverage will remain in effect until you secure another permanent rental place to stay.

Do Both Guidelines Need to Be Met for Coverage?

Yes, coverage requires that both the situation (spoiled food or living arrangements) and the acceptable cause listed above occur during the outage period.

While renters’ insurance has its limitations, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Fuhriman Insurance Agency partners with several renters’ insurance carriers to suit your needs. Whether you’re switching carriers or taking the first step toward renters’ insurance, we’re here to help. Contact us or visit our office in Boise, ID, for more information.

Why Every Business Owner Needs Umbrella Insurance

Running a business comes with its fair share of risks. No matter how careful you are, accidents, lawsuits, and unexpected situations can still happen. That’s where umbrella insurance comes into play. A safety net that every business owner should seriously consider. At Fuhriman Insurance Agency in Boise, ID, we help businesses of all sizes protect what they’ve worked so hard to build.

What Is Umbrella Insurance?

Think of umbrella insurance as extra coverage that kicks in when your other policies reach their limit. If a major claim or lawsuit goes beyond what your general liability or auto policy covers, umbrella insurance helps fill in the gap. It’s not a standalone policy, but rather an extension that provides broader protection.

Why It Matters for Business Owners

No business is immune to risk. A customer slips and falls, an employee causes a major accident, or a legal dispute escalates—these situations can lead to costs that far exceed your standard policy limits. Without umbrella insurance, your business assets—or even your personal assets—could be on the line. This type of policy gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re covered for the unexpected.

Affordable Protection with Big Benefits

One of the best aspects of umbrella insurance is its cost-effectiveness. For a relatively low premium, you can add a significant layer of protection. It’s a smart investment, especially when you consider the financial damage one large claim could cause.

If you’re unsure whether umbrella insurance is right for your business, let’s talk. Contact Fuhriman Insurance Agency in Boise, ID, today. We’ll help you understand your risks and customize coverage that keeps your business secure, no matter what comes your way.

How to Calculate How Much Life Insurance You Need

Choosing the right amount of life insurance isn’t just about picking a number—it’s about ensuring financial security for the people you care about. Whether you’re providing for a spouse, children, or aging parents, the goal is to leave behind stability, not uncertainty. So, how do you determine how much coverage is enough? Your representative at Fuhriman Insurance Agency, serving Boise, ID, can help guide you through the process.

Start With Your Income and Responsibilities

A good starting point is to multiply your annual income by the number of years your family would need support. Many experts recommend 10 to 15 years of income, but this figure can vary depending on your circumstances. If you have young children or significant debt, you may need more coverage. Consider how long your loved ones would require financial assistance to maintain their lifestyle.

Factor in Debts, Education, and Final Expenses

Life insurance can also help cover outstanding debts such as mortgages, car loans, and credit card balances. Add these amounts to your estimate, along with the cost of college tuition if you plan to support your children’s education. Don’t forget to account for final expenses—funeral and burial costs can easily reach thousands of dollars.

Consider Existing Assets

If you already have savings, investments, or other financial resources, subtract these assets from your total insurance need. The goal is to close the financial gap without overextending your policy unnecessarily. A licensed agent can help you calculate your needs accurately, eliminating guesswork and ensuring you’re not paying for more coverage than required.

Plan With Purpose

Calculating your life insurance needs isn’t about fear—it’s about thoughtful planning. With the right coverage in place, you can provide your family with something that lasts far beyond a paycheck: peace of mind. Contact Fuhriman Insurance Agency, serving Boise, ID, today to get started on securing your family’s future.

Why Accurate Business Descriptions Matter on Your Insurance Policy

When it comes to commercial insurance, the details truly matter—especially the way your business is described on your policy. It might seem like a small detail, but having an accurate business description can make the difference between smooth claims processing and a major coverage issue. At Fuhriman Insurance Agency in Boise, ID, we’ve seen firsthand how the right language can protect your business effectively.

Why Your Business Description Matters

Your business description isn’t just a formality—it’s how your insurer understands what you do. Whether you’re a general contractor, a catering company, or a boutique marketing firm, the way your operations are defined determines what risks are covered and how your premiums are calculated. If the description doesn’t match your actual operations, you could end up paying too much—or worse, not being covered when it matters most.

How Misclassification Can Complicate Claims

Imagine filing a claim after a loss, only to discover that your policy doesn’t technically cover your type of work because it was misclassified. Unfortunately, this situation happens more often than you might think. Insurance companies rely on business descriptions to assess risk and determine if a claim is valid. An inaccurate or vague description can delay the claims process or even result in a denial.

Keep Your Policy Clear and Up-to-Date

Businesses evolve over time. Maybe you’ve added new services or shifted your focus. It’s important to review your policy regularly and update your business description whenever changes occur. Keeping your policy accurate ensures that your coverage aligns with your current operations.

If you’re unsure whether your current commercial policy accurately reflects your business, the team at Fuhriman Insurance Agency in Boise, ID is here to help. Contact us today to ensure your coverage matches the work you do, so you’re protected no matter what challenges come your way.

What are the advantages of getting auto insurance in Idaho?

For many residents of Boise, ID, owning a car is a necessity to navigate around the community. Along with owning a car or any other vehicle, it’s also crucial to secure the right insurance. There are several benefits to having an auto insurance plan in the state of Idaho.

Vehicle Protection

A primary reason to get an auto insurance plan in this part of Idaho is to protect your vehicle. Purchasing a vehicle is a significant investment. The right insurance coverage provides support if your car is damaged due to an accident, vandalism, or theft. This ensures that you can cover the cost of replacing the car or making major repairs.

Liability Coverage

Your auto insurance policy also provides liability coverage. There’s always a risk that you could cause an accident when driving a car. However, with the right insurance coverage, you will have the support you need. A comprehensive auto insurance plan helps you manage your liability risks and ensures you comply with the state’s minimum insurance laws.

If you are in Boise, ID, and want to ensure you have the right insurance at all times, our team at Fuhriman Insurance Agency can provide the support you need to build a suitable insurance plan. When you contact our professionals at Fuhriman Insurance Agency, we can help you assess your insurance needs and provide the necessary support to build a plan.

Is Toy Insurance a Worthy Investment?

Outdoor enthusiasts love riding their recreational vehicles during the summer months. However, choosing the right insurance coverage to protect their equipment can be challenging. The Fuhriman Insurance Agency of Boise, ID, can assist by providing pertinent information on why toy insurance is a worthy investment.

What is Toy Insurance?

Recreational vehicles are highly coveted outdoor adult toys. Owners are continually looking for optimal coverage for their rides. Toy insurance is a worthy investment as the off-road riding conditions can be unpredictable at best. The specialized coverage protects recreational vehicles while operated, towed, or stored. Also, toy insurance shields against theft, vandalism, or damage from extreme weather conditions. It is wise to add liability insurance that covers all legal expenses should you be found at fault for an accident with another vehicle. Often, the result is getting sued by the other party.

What Recreational Vehicles are Candidates for Toy Insurance?

All recreational vehicles, such as all-terrain vehicles, golf carts, and snowmobiles, are eligible to be included in a toy insurance policy. Accidents are inevitable when traveling off-road on your recreational vehicle. Having quality coverage is crucial when a mishap takes place. All recreational vehicle owners ought to have a standard toy insurance policy. It should cover all repair damages and medical care if someone is injured in an accident. Additionally, the coverage must protect your assets if a personal injury lawsuit is filed against you.

If you need further information on the coverage provided by a toy insurance policy, contact the Fuhriman Insurance Agency of Boise, ID. Our staff can create personal coverage for your specific recreational insurance needs. The added protection allows you to enjoy riding your off-road vehicles without questioning if your toy insurance policy is adequate. Call and set up an appointment today.

How Life Insurance Can Be Used for Charitable Giving and Philanthropy

Life insurance is often viewed as a means to protect loved ones financially. However, it can also serve as a powerful tool for charitable giving. At Fuhriman Insurance Agency in Boise, ID, we assist individuals in finding innovative ways to utilize their policies to support the causes they care about, even after their passing.

Naming a Charity as Your Beneficiary

The simplest way to use life insurance for philanthropy is by naming a charity as a beneficiary. This ensures that when the policy pays out, all or a portion of the proceeds will go directly to the organization of your choice. It’s an effortless way to make a lasting impact without affecting your current financial situation.

Donating an Existing Policy

You can transfer ownership to a charitable organization if you have a life insurance policy you no longer need. This allows the charity to either keep the policy and receive the death benefit later or cash it in for immediate funds. Depending on tax laws, you may be eligible for a charitable deduction when you make this type of donation.

Establishing a Charitable Remainder Trust

A charitable remainder trust (CRT) can be an excellent option for those seeking a more structured approach. This allows you to receive income from your life insurance policy during your lifetime, with the remainder going to a charity upon your passing. It’s a balanced way to combine philanthropic giving with personal financial security.

If you’re considering using life insurance to leave a meaningful legacy, Fuhriman Insurance Agency in Boise, ID, can help you through the process. Contact us today to explore your charitable giving options.

How Commercial Insurance Protects Your Real Estate Business

Entrepreneurs in Boise, ID, with tangible property, such as buildings and land, may require commercial property insurance to adequately protect their investment. Various mishaps can occur, including severe storms, fires, and other unexpected events. If your properties are spread across diverse locations, monitoring them can be challenging. Fuhriman Insurance Agency can help you determine what you need to protect your real estate holdings sufficiently.

Understanding Commercial Real Estate or Property Insurance

This insurance protects your real estate company’s physical assets from unexpected events, including fire, theft, vandalism, and windstorms. The asset types covered by this policy can include buildings you own or rent, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and other items necessary for daily operation. It can also cover the loss of business income resulting from physical property damage. This type of commercial policy enables you to recover quickly if your business needs to shut down due to an unexpected event. It can also help pay for damages if a covered event destroys land and buildings you manage.

Factors to Consider

When evaluating the need for commercial property insurance for your real estate business, consider the following factors:

  • Location – Protection typically costs less outside of cities.
  • Construction – Buildings constructed with less combustible materials are easier to insure.
  • Occupancy – The use of your buildings or properties also affects their ratings.
  • Fire and theft protection – The distance from fire services and the theft protections you have in place make a difference.

This insurance is necessary to protect more than just your land and buildings. Fencing, landscaping, satellite and communication devices, and similar items also fall under this protection.

If you’re wondering how commercial insurance can protect your real estate in Boise, ID, contact the professionals at Fuhriman Insurance Agency to schedule your consultation.

The Benefits of Renters Insurance for College Students

College life is full of firsts—your first apartment, your first taste of independence, and, unfortunately, your first encounter with unexpected expenses. As exciting as this new chapter can be, protecting yourself and your belongings is important. For college students, renters insurance is a simple and affordable way to create a safety net. At Fuhriman Insurance Agency, we provide renters insurance throughout Boise, ID, and we understand the unique needs of students and are here to help you stay prepared.

Protection for Your Belongings

Consider everything you own—your laptop, phone, clothes, furniture, and even that gaming console you love. Now imagine what it would cost to replace all of it if a fire, theft, or another disaster struck. Renters insurance ensures you won’t have to drain your savings to replace your belongings. It can help cover the cost of damaged or stolen items so you can bounce back quickly without added stress.

Coverage Beyond Your Belongings

Renters insurance isn’t just about protecting your stuff. It also provides liability coverage, which can save you from expensive bills if someone gets injured in your apartment or if you accidentally damage property that doesn’t belong to you. As a student, the last thing you need is a financial setback that could have been avoided with the proper coverage.

Affordable and Easy

Renters insurance is a great budget-friendly option. For a small monthly payment, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re protected. It’s a wise investment, especially for students living off-campus.

Please don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Fuhriman Insurance Agency in Boise, ID to learn more about renters insurance and how it can benefit you. We’re here to help you protect what matters most.