Straight answers on insurance, in California and every state.
Plain-language guides from an independent broker on the problems people call about most: non-renewals, hard-to-insure homes, contractor requirements and trucking — plus tools that work out your own dates and numbers, and read your contracts and certificates.
Insurance glossary: plain-English definitions of the terms on your policy, each linked to its full answer.
The problems people call about
Longer pieces on the situations that make someone pick up the phone: a non-renewal notice with a date on it, a home no admitted carrier will write, a contractor deadline, a new trucking authority that cannot run yet.
California insurance rules that changed
The statutes and regulations that actually changed what your policy has to do — with the code sections.
Read the guide GuideWorkers’ comp for every California contractor by 2028
What’s required today, what changes on January 1, 2028, and how to get ahead of it.
Read the guide GuideTruck insurance for a new authority
The coverage, federal and California filings, and underwriting questions for a new motor carrier.
Read the guide GuideHome insurance cancelled or non-renewed
Cancellation vs. non-renewal in California, your rights, and a step-by-step plan to get insured again.
Read the guide GuideNon-renewed in a wildfire zone
Moratoriums, the FAIR Plan and difference-in-conditions coverage, and a working timeline.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Earthquake Insurance Explained
How California earthquake insurance works: what homeowners policies exclude, how CEA deductibles and private options compare, and how to decide.
Read the guide GuideYour Rights When Filing a Home Insurance Claim in California
California's Fair Claims rules set deadlines insurers must meet. Learn the timelines, how to document a claim, ALE after disasters and CDI complaints.
Read the guide GuideLandlord Insurance in California
California landlord insurance guide: dwelling fire forms, loss of rent, liability, umbrella, tenant requirements and FAIR Plan options for rental properties.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in California for Small Businesses
California requires workers' comp with even one employee. Learn the law, penalties, how class codes and experience mods drive cost, and contractor rules.
Read the guide GuideFlood Insurance
NFIP vs. private flood insurance: coverage limits, waiting periods, basements, ALE, Risk Rating 2.0 pricing and lender acceptance, for homes and businesses.
Read the guide GuideInsurance for Rideshare and Delivery Drivers
Car insurance for Uber, Lyft and DoorDash drivers: personal policy gaps, rideshare endorsements, California TNC periods and when commercial auto is needed.
Read the guide GuideSmall Business Insurance by Industry
Small business insurance by industry: general liability, BOP, workers' comp, commercial auto, professional liability, cyber, liquor liability and more.
Read the guide GuideAdding a Teen Driver to Your Car Insurance
Insuring a teen driver: when to add them, graduated license rules, good student and driver training discounts, which car to choose, and liability limits.
Read the guide GuideTerm vs. Whole Life Insurance
Term vs. whole life insurance in plain English: term, whole, universal and indexed UL, cost, cash value, conversion, how much you need, free-look period.
Read the guide GuideWildfire Mitigation and Insurance Discounts
How wildfire mitigation can affect home insurance: home hardening, defensible space, Firewise USA, Wildfire Prepared Home and California's Safer from Wildfires.
Read the guide GuideADU Insurance in California
How to insure a California ADU: builder's risk during construction, homeowners vs. landlord coverage after, rental income, liability and wildfire rebuilds.
Read the guide GuideClassic Car Insurance
How classic and collector car insurance works: agreed value vs. actual cash value, mileage and usage rules, storage, restoration coverage and who qualifies.
Read the guide GuideContractor Liability: Additional Insured and Contract Requirements
Contract insurance requirements for contractors: additional insured, primary and non-contributory, waiver of subrogation, completed operations and COIs.
Read the guide GuideCyber Insurance for Small Businesses
What small business cyber insurance covers: breach response, ransomware, business interruption, wire fraud and liability, plus exclusions and underwriting.
Read the guide GuideDisability Income Insurance Basics
How disability income insurance works: short- vs. long-term, own-occupation definitions, elimination periods, riders, California SDI and SSDI.
Read the guide GuideFMCSA Insurance Requirements for Trucking Companies
Federal trucking insurance minimums under 49 CFR 387, BMC-91 and BMC-34 filings, the MCS-90 endorsement, and the coverage shippers and brokers expect.
Read the guide GuideHail Damage and Roof Claims
How hail roof claims are paid: replacement cost vs. ACV roof schedules, wind/hail deductibles, cosmetic damage exclusions, matching and Class 4 roofs.
Read the guide GuideHurricane Deductibles Explained
How hurricane and named-storm deductibles work: percentage deductibles, triggers, state rules, wind pools, flood, and ways to plan for the cost.
Read the guide GuideInsuring Jewelry, Art and Collectibles
Why homeowners special limits fall short for jewelry, art and collectibles, and how scheduled personal property, appraisals and agreed value work.
Read the guide GuideMoving to a New State: Insurance Checklist
What to update when you move states: auto minimums and no-fault rules, homeowners or renters, flood, umbrella, valuables, health and business coverage.
Read the guide GuidePersonal Umbrella Insurance in California
How a personal umbrella works with auto and home coverage, California's 30/60/15 minimums, underlying limits, UM/UIM, exclusions and who needs one.
Read the guide GuideShort-Term Rental Insurance for Airbnb and VRBO Hosts
How homeowners policies treat Airbnb and VRBO hosting, what platform host programs leave out, and dedicated short-term rental coverage for hosts.
Read the guide GuideBoat and Watercraft Insurance
How boat and personal watercraft insurance works: hull and liability coverage, navigational limits, hurricane plans and boater education rules.
Read the guide GuideCommercial Property Insurance for Small Landlords
Insuring a 5+ unit or mixed-use building: commercial property forms, coinsurance, valuation, ordinance or law, loss of rents and general liability.
Read the guide GuideEarthquake Retrofits and Insurance in Washington, Oregon and Utah
Earthquake insurance outside California: percentage deductibles, coverage parts, and how retrofits like foundation bolting affect damage and price.
Read the guide GuideProfessional Liability (E&O) Insurance for Consultants
How E&O insurance works for consultants: what it covers and excludes, claims-made coverage, retroactive dates, tail coverage and client contracts.
Read the guide GuideFlood Zones and Flood Insurance in FL, TX, LA, NC and NJ
How to read FEMA flood zones and how flood insurance works in Florida, Texas, Louisiana, North Carolina and New Jersey.
Read the guide GuideHigh-Net-Worth Homeowners Insurance
What sets high-value homeowners insurance apart: extended or guaranteed replacement cost, cash settlement, collections, excess liability and risk services.
Read the guide GuideHOA Master Policy Gaps
Where HOA master policies stop and your HO-6 starts: bare walls vs. all-in, master deductibles, loss assessment, water damage, earthquake and flood.
Read the guide GuideTenant Screening and Landlord Liability
Fair housing, FCRA adverse action notices, California deposit and screening rules, renters insurance requirements and what landlord policies cover.
Read the guide GuideMotorcycle Insurance: A Rider's Guide
Motorcycle insurance explained: liability minimums, passenger coverage, UM/UIM, custom parts, agreed value, lane splitting, lay-up and umbrella coverage.
Read the guide GuideInsurance for Nonprofits
Coverage nonprofits commonly need: D&O and EPLI, general liability, abuse and molestation, volunteer accident, crime, cyber, auto and event coverage.
Read the guide GuidePet Insurance Explained
How pet insurance works: plan types, deductibles, reimbursement, waiting periods, pre-existing conditions, and dog bite liability.
Read the guide GuideRV Insurance for Motorhome and Trailer Owners
How RV insurance works for motorhomes and travel trailers: liability, physical damage, personal effects, full-timer and vacation liability, storage, rentals.
Read the guide GuideSpecial Event Insurance for Hosts and Organizers
Special event liability for weddings, parties and fundraisers: venue requirements, host liquor liability, event cancellation and parties at home.
Read the guide GuideTotal Loss Claims and Gap Insurance
How insurers decide a car is totaled and calculate its value, California total loss settlement rules, disputing an offer, and how gap insurance works.
Read the guide GuideE-Bike and E-Scooter Insurance
Whether home, renters or specialty policies cover your e-bike or e-scooter for theft, damage and liability, California's e-bike classes and battery safety.
Read the guide GuideHome Solar Panels and Battery Storage: Insurance Basics
How homeowners insurance treats rooftop solar and home batteries: owned vs. leased systems, dwelling limits, roof claims, warranties and exclusions.
Read the guide GuideHow to Read Your Homeowners Declarations Page
A section-by-section walkthrough of your homeowners declarations page: named insured, Coverages A to F, valuation, deductibles, endorsements, mortgagee.
Read the guide GuideDo You Need Rental Car Insurance?
Rental counter products explained: collision damage waiver, supplemental liability, personal accident and effects, and what your auto policy and card cover.
Read the guide GuideWater Damage and Mold: What Homeowners Insurance Covers
When homeowners insurance covers water damage: sudden vs. gradual leaks, flood, sewer backup, mold limits, your duty to mitigate and prevention steps.
Read the guide GuideYour CLUE Report and Claims History
What's in your CLUE report, how long claims stay on it, how to get a free copy and dispute errors, and why homebuyers should ask about a home's claims.
Read the guide GuidePool and Trampoline Liability
How swimming pools and trampolines affect homeowners insurance: liability limits, exclusions, fencing and safety rules, and when to add an umbrella.
Read the guide GuideFallen Trees: Who Pays?
Who pays when a tree falls on your house, car, fence or a neighbor's property, how negligence changes it, and what tree removal homeowners insurance covers.
Read the guide GuideFirst-Time Homebuyer Insurance Checklist
Insurance steps for first-time buyers before closing: shopping early, rebuild cost, the property's claims history, flood and earthquake, and lender rules.
Read the guide GuideInsurance for College Students
How parents' home, auto and health policies cover a college student, when renters insurance makes sense, and what to check before move-in day.
Read the guide GuideDivorce Insurance Checklist
What to update during and after a divorce: home and auto policies, life insurance beneficiaries, health coverage options and who insures shared property.
Read the guide GuideHome Renovation Insurance Checklist
Insurance to check before a remodel: telling your insurer, builder's risk, contractor insurance and license, raising limits after, and vacancy rules.
Read the guide GuideRetirement Insurance Checklist
Insurance to review when you retire: Medicare timing, life insurance, long-term care, home and auto discounts, umbrella liability and beneficiaries.
Read the guide GuideDog Bite Liability Insurance
How homeowners and renters policies handle dog bite claims, strict liability vs. one-bite rules, breed restrictions, and options when your insurer says no.
Read the guide GuideCargo Insurance Exclusions and Denied Claims
Common motor truck cargo exclusions, from unattended vehicles to unlisted commodities and reefer breakdown, and what owner-operators can do before a loss.
Read the guide GuideClaims on a Contractor License Bond
How the $25,000 California contractor license bond works, who can file a claim, how the surety investigates, and why you must repay the surety.
Read the guide GuideStolen Tools From Your Truck
Why auto and general liability policies usually don't cover tools stolen from a work truck, and how inland marine tool coverage fills the gap.
Read the guide GuideIs General Liability Required in California?
California doesn't require general liability for most businesses, but licenses, contracts, landlords and some trades do. What to know before you buy.
Read the guide GuideWhat Workers' Comp Costs in California
How California workers' comp premiums are figured: class code rates, payroll, experience modification, minimum premiums, and ways to keep costs down.
Read the guide GuideGolf Carts and Homeowners Insurance
When a homeowners policy covers a golf cart or LSV and when it doesn't, especially on public roads, plus golf cart policies and liability gaps to check.
Read the guide GuideIs Flood Insurance Required in Florida?
When Florida homeowners must carry flood insurance: lender rules in flood zones, Citizens' phased flood requirement, NFIP waiting periods and private options.
Read the guide GuideFlorida Roof Age Insurance Rules
How roof age affects Florida home insurance: the law on roofs under 15 years, inspections, ACV roof payments, wind mitigation credits and Citizens rules.
Read the guide GuideColorado Hail Damage Claims
How Colorado hail claims work: wind/hail deductibles, depreciation holdbacks, roofing contractor rules like the 72-hour cancel right, and claim steps.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Illinois
Illinois requires workers' comp for nearly every employer with even one employee. Who's covered, owner exemptions, penalties and how to buy a policy.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Arizona
Who must carry workers' comp in Arizona, how the employee count rules work, owner and contractor rules, penalties for going without, and how to buy it.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Georgia
Georgia's workers' comp rule for employers with three or more employees, who counts, owner exemptions, penalties, and how to get coverage.
Read the guide GuideNorth Carolina's Beach Plan
North Carolina's Coastal Property Insurance Pool, or Beach Plan: last-resort wind, hail and property coverage in 18 coastal counties, and what it leaves out.
Read the guide GuideWashington Workers' Comp and L&I
Why most Washington employers buy workers' comp from the L&I state fund, how premiums based on hours work, self-insurance and stop gap coverage.
Read the guide GuideNew Jersey Basic vs. Standard Auto Policy
New Jersey's Basic auto policy vs. the Standard policy: PIP, property damage and optional bodily injury limits, the lawsuit option, and who each one suits.
Read the guide GuideNew Jersey's Right-to-Sue Options
How New Jersey's two lawsuit options work: what the limited right to sue allows, what the unlimited option costs, and which applies if you don't choose.
Read the guide GuideMichigan PIP Choices
Michigan's PIP medical choices: unlimited, $500,000, $250,000, $50,000 with Medicaid, or no PIP medical with qualifying Medicare, and the default.
Read the guide GuideMichigan Mini-Tort
How Michigan's mini-tort lets you recover up to $3,000 from a driver more than 50% at fault, for vehicle damage your own insurance doesn't pay.
Read the guide GuideKentucky No-Fault Insurance
Kentucky's $10,000 basic PIP, the tort threshold for lawsuits, and the no-fault rejection form that keeps your right to sue but gives up basic PIP.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Virginia
Virginia requires workers' comp for employers that regularly employ more than two employees. Who counts, subcontractor rules and voluntary coverage.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Tennessee
Tennessee requires workers' comp at five employees, or one in construction. The construction owner exemption registry and how the state enforces it.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Indiana
Indiana requires workers' comp from the first employee. Self-insurance, rules for sole proprietors and partners, and contractor clearance certificates.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Missouri
Missouri requires workers' comp at five employees, or one in construction. How corporate officers count and why smaller employers often buy it anyway.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Wisconsin
Wisconsin requires workers' comp once you employ three people or pay $500 in wages in a quarter. Farm rules, deadlines and exemptions for owners.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Minnesota
Minnesota has no minimum employee count: even one part-time worker generally needs workers' comp. Who's excluded and the penalties for going uninsured.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Alabama
Alabama requires workers' comp at five employees, counting part-timers, officers and LLC members. The homebuilder exception and exempt employers.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Kentucky
Kentucky requires workers' comp from the first employee, including family, temporary and part-time workers. Exempt classes and fines for uninsured employers.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Oregon
In Oregon one worker makes you an employer who must carry workers' comp. Owner exemptions, construction and landscape limits, and penalties.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Oklahoma
Oklahoma's workers' comp law applies from one employee. Who's excluded, such as 10% owners and family businesses, and fines of up to $1,000 a day.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Utah
Utah requires nearly all employers to carry workers' comp. Coverage waivers for owners with no employees, the corporate officer exclusion and penalties.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Nevada
Nevada requires workers' comp from one employee. The narrow casual-employment exemption, construction trades, sole proprietors and fines up to $15,000.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Arkansas
Arkansas requires workers' comp at three employees, two for building businesses and one for subcontracting contractors. Who counts and who's exempt.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Iowa
Iowa requires workers' comp from the first employee. Household, casual and farm payroll exemptions, officer rejections, and the felony penalty.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Kansas
Kansas workers' comp depends on payroll: coverage is required once gross annual payroll tops $20,000. Family wages, agriculture and penalties.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Nebraska
Nebraska requires workers' comp from the first employee, part-timers and minors included. Railroad, domestic and farm exceptions and the penalties.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Idaho
Idaho requires workers' comp before your first hire, for full-time, part-time, seasonal or occasional employees. Exemptions and officer liability.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Montana
Montana employers choose self-insurance, a private insurer or Montana State Fund. Who counts, contractor exemptions and the Uninsured Employers Fund.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in New Mexico
New Mexico requires workers' comp at three employees, or one for licensed construction work. Who counts, owners, and the farm and ranch rule.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Wyoming
Wyoming requires workers' comp only for extrahazardous industries, bought from the state's Workers' Compensation Division. Opting in and private options.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in South Dakota
South Dakota doesn't require workers' comp, but uninsured employers lose the law's protections and can be sued. What that means for employers.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in North Dakota
North Dakota requires coverage for every employee before work starts, bought only from Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI). Exceptions and penalties.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Alaska
Alaska requires workers' comp from one employee, with no state fund or opt-out. Self-insurance, stop orders and penalties up to $1,000 a day per employee.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Hawaii
Hawaii requires workers' comp from one employee, full-time or part-time. Statutory exclusions, buying from a carrier or self-insuring, and no employee premium.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Maine
Maine requires nearly every private employer to carry workers' comp, with no employee-count exemption. Self-insurance and the domestic and farm exceptions.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in New Hampshire
New Hampshire requires workers' comp before your first hire, relatives and nonprofit staff included. Sole proprietors and small officer-only companies.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Vermont
Vermont requires workers' comp from one employee, including out-of-state hires working in Vermont. Sole proprietors, self-insurance and daily penalties.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Rhode Island
Rhode Island requires workers' comp from one employee. Owner and partner exceptions, corporate officers, and fines, criminal charges and closure orders.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Delaware
Delaware requires workers' comp from one employee, part-time, seasonal and temporary included. The exceptions, timing, and penalties for going uninsured.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in West Virginia
West Virginia requires most employers to carry workers' comp. Domestic, small farm and casual employer elections, and officer and LLC member exclusions.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Mississippi
Mississippi requires workers' comp at five regular workers in the same business. Nonprofit and other exemptions, and penalties for uninsured employers.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in D.C.
D.C. requires workers' comp from one employee, plus domestic workers at 240 hours a quarter. Self-insurance and the 10-day injury report deadline.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Florida
Florida requires workers' comp at one employee in construction and four elsewhere, counting non-exempt officers and LLC members. Farm thresholds too.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in New York
New York requires virtually every employer to carry workers' comp, including part-timers, family, leased workers and volunteers. The narrow exemptions.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in North Carolina
North Carolina requires workers' comp at three regular employees, counting corporate officers. Radiation work, farm rules, sole proprietors and LLC members.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Colorado
Colorado requires workers' comp from one employee, family and part-time included. Fines up to $500 a day, shutdowns and a 25% penalty on injury claims.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in New Jersey
New Jersey requires workers' comp with no minimum payroll or headcount. Self-insurance, and the criminal and per-period penalties for going uninsured.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania requires workers' comp from one employee, part-time and family included. When an employer is excluded, and the penalties for not complying.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Michigan
Michigan's two tests: three employees at one time, or one working 35+ hours a week for 13 weeks. Farm and household thresholds for workers' comp.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Maryland
Maryland requires workers' comp from one covered employee, through an insurer, Chesapeake Employers or self-insurance. Penalties up to $25,000.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Louisiana
Louisiana requires workers' comp from one employee, full-time, part-time or seasonal. No paycheck deductions, and fines per employee for going uninsured.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Massachusetts
Massachusetts requires workers' comp for every employer, whatever the headcount or hours. Domestic workers at 16 hours, stop work orders and daily fines.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Connecticut
Connecticut requires workers' comp from one paid employee. How sole proprietors and partners elect in, which owners can elect out, and self-insurance.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in Texas
Most Texas private employers can choose whether to carry workers' comp. What non-subscribers must report, tell employees, and the lawsuit risk they take on.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp in South Carolina
South Carolina requires workers' comp at four regular employees, counting part-time and family workers. The $3,000 payroll and other exemptions.
Read the guide GuideFlorida Hurricane Deductibles
Florida's hurricane deductible applies once per calendar year, not per storm. The $500, 2%, 5% and 10% options insurers must offer under section 627.701.
Read the guide GuideAlabama FORTIFIED Roof Discounts
Alabama law requires a wind premium discount for FORTIFIED homes, and Strengthen Alabama Homes offers grants of up to $10,000 toward a FORTIFIED Roof.
Read the guide GuideLouisiana Fortify Homes Program
Louisiana's Fortify Homes Program grants up to $10,000 toward a FORTIFIED Roof by lottery, paid to the contractor. The required discount and how to apply.
Read the guide GuideStrengthen Oklahoma Homes
Strengthen Oklahoma Homes grants up to $10,000 for a FORTIFIED Roof High Wind roof with the Hail Supplement. Who qualifies and the statewide window.
Read the guide GuideNew York Hurricane Deductibles
New York's hurricane deductible applies only when a hurricane makes landfall in New York, and only to wind damage in a set window under Regulation 159.
Read the guide GuideStrengthen Mississippi Homes
Strengthen Mississippi Homes grants up to $10,000 toward a FORTIFIED Roof, open to MWUA policyholders since July 2026, with a statewide rollout expected.
Read the guide GuideColorado Wildfire Risk Scores
Colorado's HB25-1182: insurers must consider mitigation or offer discounts, share your wildfire risk score, and answer appeals within set deadlines.
Read the guide GuideInheriting a House: Insurance Checklist
What to do about insurance when you inherit a house: keep the policy in force, cover the estate and executor, vacancy limits, and replace it once title passes.
Read the guide GuideAfter a Spouse Dies: Insurance Checklist
Insurance steps after a spouse dies: life and benefit claims, Social Security survivor benefits, health coverage deadlines, and updating home and auto.
Read the guide GuideGeneral Liability and Faulty Workmanship
A CGL policy usually won't pay to redo your own defective work, but may cover damage or injury it causes to others. How policy wording and state law decide it.
Read the guide GuideNotary Bond vs. Notary E&O
A notary bond protects the public and the surety can make you repay it; notary E&O protects you. State bond amounts and when you need each.
Read the guide GuideMinnesota Hail Roof Claims
Minnesota roofers can't pay or rebate your deductible, and you can cancel an insurance-funded roofing contract within 72 hours of a claim denial.
Read the guide GuideIllinois Public Adjusters
What an Illinois public adjuster does, licensing and written contract rules, the 10% fee cap on home claims, and steps after a tornado or hailstorm.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Low Cost Auto Insurance
Who qualifies for California's Low Cost Auto Insurance Program: income limits, a car worth $25,000 or less, a good driving record, and how to apply.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Good Driver Discount
California insurers must sell a Good Driver Discount policy at least 20% lower to anyone who qualifies. The three-year test and what people miss.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Wildfire Nonrenewal Moratorium
After a declared wildfire emergency, California bars nonrenewals in nearby ZIP codes for a year. How the moratorium works and what to do if you got a notice.
Read the guide GuideGeorgia Home Insurance Claim Deadlines
Georgia's claim deadlines: insurers must acknowledge a claim and send proof-of-loss forms within 15 days, then accept or deny within set timeframes.
Read the guide GuideArizona Home Insurance Nonrenewal Rules
Arizona insurers must give 30 days' notice of nonrenewal and 30 days to fix a property condition, and a coverage question isn't a claim.
Read the guide GuideNorth Carolina Home Insurance Nonrenewal
North Carolina insurers must give 45 days' notice of nonrenewal with the reason. Notice of rate or deductible changes, and the FAIR Plan and coastal pool.
Read the guide GuideWashington Home Insurance Claims and Nonrenewal
Washington insurers must give 60 days' notice of a homeowners nonrenewal with the actual reason, and respond to claims within set deadlines.
Read the guide GuideVirginia Home Insurance Nonrenewal
Virginia insurers must give 30 days' written notice with the reason before nonrenewing a home policy, and you can ask the Commissioner to review it.
Read the guide GuideTennessee Homeowners Insurance Questions
Tennessee homeowners insurance: 30 days' nonrenewal notice, why earthquake damage needs separate coverage near New Madrid, and where to get claim help.
Read the guide GuideEarthquake Brace + Bolt Grant
Earthquake Brace + Bolt grants of up to $3,000 toward a seismic retrofit for pre-1980 wood-frame houses on raised foundations. Who qualifies and how it works.
Read the guide GuideFiling a Complaint With the California DOI
How to file a free Request for Assistance with the California Department of Insurance: online or by phone, what to attach, and what happens next.
Read the guide GuideOhio Home Insurance Nonrenewal
Ohio insurers must give 30 days' notice of a homeowners nonrenewal and explain the Ohio FAIR Plan. A 2026 bill would change it; it isn't law yet.
Read the guide GuideMichigan Home Insurance Nonrenewal
Michigan home insurers must give 30 days' written notice with specific reasons. Claim deadlines for proof of loss and payment, and 12% interest when late.
Read the guide GuidePennsylvania Home Insurance Nonrenewal
Pennsylvania's Act 205 limits why an insurer can non-renew a home policy, requires 30 days' notice with the reason, and lets you ask for a review.
Read the guide GuideIllinois Home Insurance Nonrenewal
Illinois requires 30 days' notice of a homeowners nonrenewal, or 60 days for most reasons after 5 years, with a specific reason and a right to a hearing.
Read the guide GuideNew Jersey Home Insurance Nonrenewal
A New Jersey nonrenewal notice must come 30 to 120 days before expiration, state the reason, and tell you how to complain to the Department.
Read the guide GuideNew York Home Insurance Nonrenewal
New York's three-year required policy period, the 45-to-60-day nonrenewal notice with a specific reason, and your right to renew if notice is improper.
Read the guide GuideMassachusetts Home Insurance Nonrenewal
Massachusetts requires 45 days' written notice of a homeowners nonrenewal with the specific reasons. How mid-term cancellation notice differs.
Read the guide GuideMaryland Home Insurance Nonrenewal
Maryland requires 45 days' written notice before a homeowners policy in force over 45 days is cancelled or non-renewed, sent by tracked first-class mail.
Read the guide GuideColorado Home Insurance Nonrenewal
Colorado home insurers must mail 60 days' notice with the reasons before a nonrenewal, and 10 days' notice to cancel for nonpayment.
Read the guide GuideMinnesota Home Insurance Nonrenewal
Minnesota requires 60 days' notice before a homeowners nonrenewal or coverage cut, with the reason, your complaint rights and the Minnesota FAIR Plan.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia FAIR Plan Clearinghouse
How California's FAIR Plan clearinghouse lets insurers offer regular coverage to FAIR Plan policyholders, how to opt out, and how to compare any offer.
Read the guide GuideFinding a Lost Life Insurance Policy
Search for a deceased relative's life insurance free with the NAIC Life Insurance Policy Locator: what you need, how it works and how long it takes.
Read the guide GuideChecking an Agent's License in California
Check any California agent or broker for free with the Department of Insurance's License Status Inquiry: what to search and what the results show.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Restaurant Insurance Requirements
What California law requires a restaurant to carry: workers' comp, business vehicle minimums, and how liquor liability and lease requirements work.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Salon and Barbershop Insurance
What California salons and barbershops must carry: workers' comp for employees, the booth-renter test under Labor Code 2778, and liability by contract.
Read the guide GuideFMCSA vs. California MCP Insurance Minimums
Federal and California Motor Carrier Permit insurance minimums side by side: $750,000 for general freight, $300,000 for smaller trucks, and hazmat limits.
Read the guide GuideCEA Rates and Retrofit Discounts
What California law says CEA earthquake rates are based on, and the retrofit discount of at least 5% for qualifying pre-1979 homes.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Auto Claim Deadlines
California insurers must acknowledge a claim in 15 days, accept or deny it within 40 days of proof, pay within 30 days, and update you every 30 days.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia HOA Insurance Disclosure
What a California HOA's annual insurance summary must list under Civil Code 5300, and what its required notice means for your unit and deductible.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Home Business Insurance
What California law requires of a home business: workers' comp with even one employee, business vehicle minimums, and gaps in homeowners policies.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Cannabis License Bond
California cannabis licenses need a surety bond of at least $5,000 per licensed premises, workers' comp with employees, and insurance your city may require.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Private Patrol Operator Insurance
A BSIS private patrol operator license needs general liability of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence, and lapses suspend the license. What to carry.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Tow Truck Insurance
California tow trucks need $750,000 liability under the Motor Carrier Permit, and CHP rotation tows need $750,000 or $1,000,000 plus on-hook coverage.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Limo Insurance Requirements
CPUC liability minimums for California limo and charter-party carriers, counting the driver: $750,000 for 8 or fewer seats, $1.5 million, and $5 million.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia's 30/60/15 Minimums
California's minimum auto liability rose to $30,000/$60,000/$15,000 for policies issued or renewed since January 1, 2025, and rises to 50/100/25 in 2035.
Read the guide GuideCovered California Special Enrollment
When you can sign up for Covered California outside open enrollment: qualifying life events, the 60-day window, and the longer window after losing Medi-Cal.
Read the guide GuideLos Angeles Film Permit Insurance
Insurance for a Los Angeles film permit: $500,000 for stills, $1,000,000 for filming, higher limits for DWP, harbor, drones and aircraft, and who to name.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp Claim Deadlines for Employers
California employers must give a claim form within one working day of learning of an injury and authorize up to $10,000 of treatment. All the deadlines.
Read the guide GuidePenalties for No Workers' Comp
Going without workers' comp in California is a misdemeanor with fines of at least $10,000, stop orders, $1,500 per employee, and more if someone is hurt.
Read the guide GuideAuto Insurance After a DUI
After a California DUI: the SR-22 needed to reinstate your license and keep for 3 years, and losing the Good Driver Discount for 10 years.
Read the guide GuideHistorical Plates and Classic Car Insurance
Who qualifies for California Historical Vehicle plates, the $25 plate fee, how plated cars can be driven, and why collector car insurance matters.
Read the guide GuideMotorcycle Insurance and Lane Splitting
California motorcycles need the same 30/60/15 liability as cars. What the law says about lane splitting, CHP guidelines and helmets.
Read the guide GuideBoater Card and Boat Insurance
Since 2025 everyone operating a motorized boat or jet ski in California needs a Boater Card. Boat insurance isn't required by law, but marinas often require it.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Pet Insurance Law
California pet insurance rules: required disclosures, no waiting period for accidents, at most 30 days for illness, and a 30-day free look.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Travel Insurance Rules
What travel insurance covers in California, how the law defines it, and how travel retailers and limited lines agents can offer it.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Title Insurance Basics
What title insurance covers in California, the lender's policy vs. the owner's policy, filed rates, and buying both at the same closing.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Partnership for Long-Term Care
Partnership long-term care policies let you keep a dollar of assets for every dollar of benefits paid if you later need Medi-Cal. How they work.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia SDI vs. Private Disability
California SDI in 2026: 1.3% of wages, no wage ceiling, up to $1,765 a week for 52 weeks. When private disability insurance fills the gaps.
Read the guide GuideLandlord Habitability and Insurance
California's habitability standards, tenants' repair-and-deduct rights, and why landlord policies often exclude habitability claims.
Read the guide GuideProp 22 Occupational Accident Insurance
Under Prop 22, delivery and rideshare apps must provide occupational accident insurance: $1,000,000 for medical bills and disability pay. What it leaves out.
Read the guide GuideNew Baby Insurance Checklist
Insurance steps for expecting and new parents: adding your baby to health insurance in time, life insurance, naming guardians, and home and auto updates.
Read the guide GuideLandslide and Mudflow Insurance
Why California homeowners policies exclude most earth movement, how flood insurance covers mudflow but not landslides, and options for hillside homes.
Read the guide GuideSelling Your Home: Insurance Checklist
Insurance from listing to closing: showings, moving out early, rent-backs, when to cancel your policy, and selling a rental or a home after a loss.
Read the guide GuideTheft From a Car
Belongings stolen from your car are usually covered by homeowners or renters insurance, while damage to the car falls under your auto policy.
Read the guide GuideIs Renters Insurance Required in California?
No California law requires renters insurance, but landlords can require it in the lease. Why it matters when the landlord's policy covers only the building.
Read the guide GuideHow General Liability Premiums Are Calculated
How insurers price general liability: a class rate times an exposure such as payroll or sales, adjusted for limits, claims and location, then audited.
Read the guide GuideOhio Workers' Comp and the BWC
Ohio is a monopolistic state: employers with one or more employees must buy workers' comp from the Ohio BWC or self-insure, and buy stop gap coverage.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Prop 103 Rate Review
How California's Prop 103 rate review works: prior approval, 45 days to request a hearing, mandatory hearings over 7%, and approval after 60 days.
Read the guide GuideWildfire and Earthquake Claim Mediation
Free mediation for disputed fire or earthquake claims after a declared emergency: claims over $7,500 with more than $2,000 in dispute, paid by the insurer.
Read the guide GuideWhy You Get an Earthquake Offer Every 2 Years
California law requires home insurers to offer earthquake coverage when your policy starts, then every other year at renewal. What the offer means.
Read the guide GuideTexas Claim Deadlines
Texas claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideFlorida Claim Deadlines
Florida claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideNew York Claim Deadlines
New York claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuidePennsylvania Claim Deadlines
Pennsylvania insurers must acknowledge a claim within 10 working days and accept or deny it within 15 working days after properly executed proofs of loss.
Read the guide GuideIllinois Claim Deadlines
Illinois insurers must acknowledge a claim within 15 working days for pertinent claim communications.
Read the guide GuideOhio Claim Deadlines
Ohio claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideNorth Carolina Claim Deadlines
North Carolina insurers must acknowledge a claim within 30 days after written or electronic notice that identifies the coverage.
Read the guide GuideNew Jersey Claim Deadlines
New Jersey claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideVirginia Claim Deadlines
Virginia insurers must acknowledge a claim within 15 calendar days and accept or deny it within 15 calendar days after a properly executed proof of loss.
Read the guide GuideArizona Claim Deadlines
Arizona claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideTennessee Claim Deadlines
Tennessee insurers must acknowledge a claim within 30 days. Where to complain if an insurer is late.
Read the guide GuideMassachusetts Claim Deadlines
Massachusetts sets no fixed number of days for property claims. What the law requires of insurers, and where to complain about delays.
Read the guide GuideIndiana Claim Deadlines
Indiana sets no fixed number of days for property claims. What the law requires of insurers, and where to complain about delays.
Read the guide GuideMaryland Claim Deadlines
Maryland insurers must acknowledge a claim within 15 working days and accept or deny it within 15 working days after completed claim forms or proof of loss.
Read the guide GuideMissouri Claim Deadlines
Missouri insurers must acknowledge a claim within 10 working days and accept or deny it within 15 working days after all forms are submitted.
Read the guide GuideWisconsin Claim Deadlines
Wisconsin insurers must pay within 30 days after written notice of the covered loss and its amount. Where to complain if an insurer is late.
Read the guide GuideInsurance Claim Deadlines by State
How many days insurers have to acknowledge, accept or deny, and pay a claim in every state and D.C., with links to each state's rule and a CSV download.
Read the guide GuideColorado Claim Deadlines
Colorado insurers must accept or deny a claim within 60 days after a valid and complete claim and pay within 60 days after a valid and complete claim.
Read the guide GuideMinnesota Claim Deadlines
Minnesota claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideSouth Carolina Claim Deadlines
South Carolina sets no fixed number of days for property claims. What the law requires of insurers, and where to complain about delays.
Read the guide GuideAlabama Claim Deadlines
Alabama claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideLouisiana Claim Deadlines
Louisiana insurers must accept or deny a claim within 30 days after satisfactory proof of loss and pay within 30 days after satisfactory proof of loss.
Read the guide GuideKentucky Claim Deadlines
Kentucky insurers must acknowledge a claim within 15 days and pay within 30 calendar days after proof of loss for any payment due.
Read the guide GuideOregon Claim Deadlines
Oregon insurers must acknowledge a claim within 30 days and accept or deny it within 30 days after properly executed proofs of loss.
Read the guide GuideOklahoma Claim Deadlines
Oklahoma insurers must acknowledge a claim within 30 days and accept or deny it within 60 days after properly executed proofs of loss.
Read the guide GuideConnecticut Claim Deadlines
Connecticut sets no fixed number of days for property claims. What the law requires of insurers, and where to complain about delays.
Read the guide GuideUtah Claim Deadlines
Utah insurers must acknowledge a claim within 15 days and accept or deny it within 30 days after a complete proof of loss.
Read the guide GuideIowa Claim Deadlines
Iowa claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideNevada Claim Deadlines
Nevada claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideArkansas Claim Deadlines
Arkansas claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideMississippi Claim Deadlines
Mississippi sets no fixed number of days for property claims. What the law requires of insurers, and where to complain about delays.
Read the guide GuideKansas Claim Deadlines
Kansas insurers must acknowledge a claim within 10 working days and accept or deny it within 15 working days after properly executed proofs of loss.
Read the guide GuideNew Mexico Claim Deadlines
New Mexico sets no fixed number of days for property claims. What the law requires of insurers, and where to complain about delays.
Read the guide GuideNebraska Claim Deadlines
Nebraska claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideNew Hampshire Claim Deadlines
New Hampshire claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideNorth Dakota Claim Deadlines
North Dakota sets no fixed number of days for property claims. What the law requires of insurers, and where to complain about delays.
Read the guide GuideRhode Island Claim Deadlines
Rhode Island claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideSouth Dakota Claim Deadlines
South Dakota insurers must acknowledge a claim within 30 days. Where to complain if an insurer is late.
Read the guide GuideVermont Claim Deadlines
Vermont claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideWest Virginia Claim Deadlines
West Virginia claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideWyoming Claim Deadlines
Wyoming insurers must accept or deny a claim within 45 days after the claim and supporting evidence and pay within the same window.
Read the guide GuideWashington, D.C. Claim Deadlines
Washington, D.C. sets no fixed number of days for property claims. What the law requires of insurers, and where to complain about delays.
Read the guide GuideAlaska Claim Deadlines
Alaska claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideDelaware Claim Deadlines
Delaware insurers must acknowledge a claim within 15 working days and accept or deny it within 30 days after proof of loss is received.
Read the guide GuideHawaii Claim Deadlines
Hawaii claim deadlines: how many days insurers have to acknowledge, decide and pay a claim, and where to complain.
Read the guide GuideIdaho Claim Deadlines
Idaho sets no fixed number of days for property claims. What the law requires of insurers, and where to complain about delays.
Read the guide GuideMaine Claim Deadlines
Maine insurers must pay within 30 days after proof of loss and agreement on the amount. Where to complain if an insurer is late.
Read the guide GuideMontana Claim Deadlines
Montana insurers must accept or deny a claim within 30 days after proof of loss and pay within the same window.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia contractor insurance and bond requirements
What California law requires contractors to carry: the $25,000 CSLB bond, workers' comp or an exemption, and LLC liability insurance, with each statute.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia commercial auto insurance minimums
California's minimum liability for business vehicles: $30K/$60K/$15K since 2025, the 2035 increase, and for-hire carrier limits, from the Vehicle Code.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia life insurance free-look period and lapse notice rules
California life policies need a 60-day grace period, a 30-day notice before lapsing for nonpayment, and a 10- to 30-day free look (30 days for seniors).
Read the guide GuideEarthquake Brace + Bolt supplemental grant and the flood insurance condition
EBB pays up to $3,000; income-eligible homes ($94,480 or less) can get up to $7,000 more. When a FEMA-funded grant requires lifetime flood insurance.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Medigap birthday rule
If you already have a Medicare supplement (Medigap) policy in California, you get a 60-day open enrollment period each year starting on your birthday.
Read the guide GuideCal-COBRA: keeping your health coverage in California
Cal-COBRA lets you stay on a health plan from an employer with 2 to 19 employees for up to 36 months after losing coverage, at up to 110% of the premium.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia Paid Family Leave in 2026
California Paid Family Leave pays up to 8 weeks in 12 months at about 70% to 90% of wages, from $50 to $1,765 a week, but doesn't protect your job.
Read the guide GuideCar insurance for new California residents
New California residents must register an out-of-state car within 20 days and need a California auto policy first. What to set up and when.
Read the guide GuideUninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage Explained
What uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage pays, hit-and-run crashes, how much to carry, UM property damage vs. collision, stacking and waivers.
Read the guide GuideWhat to Do After a Car Accident in California
Step by step after a California car accident: stay at the scene, exchange information, file the DMV SR-1 within 10 days when required, and notify your insurer.
Read the guide GuideNon-Owner Car Insurance: A Practical Guide
How non-owner car insurance works, who needs it (renters, borrowers, car-share users, SR-22 drivers), what it covers and how to avoid a coverage gap.
Read the guide GuideService Line Coverage
Who pays when the water or sewer line under your yard breaks: what homeowners policies exclude, how service line endorsements work and what they cover.
Read the guide GuideEmployees Driving Their Own Cars for Work
Who pays when an employee crashes on a work errand: their own auto policy, hired and non-owned auto coverage, and California Labor Code 2802.
Read the guide GuideHost Liquor Liability vs. Liquor Liability Insurance
Serving alcohol at a business event or venue: when general liability's host liquor coverage is enough and when you need a liquor liability policy.
Read the guide GuideD&O Insurance for Startups
A founder's guide to directors and officers insurance: when investors require it, Side A, B and C coverage, what's excluded, and how it fits with EPLI.
Read the guide GuideDoes EPLI Cover Wage and Hour Claims in California?
Why California employers learn too late that EPLI excludes wage-and-hour claims: how the exclusion works, defense sublimits, PAGA and misclassification.
Read the guide GuideFollow-Form vs. Stand-Alone Commercial Umbrella
How follow-form and stand-alone commercial umbrellas differ: drop-down coverage, schedules of underlying insurance, gaps and contract requirements.
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners or Renters Insurance Cover a Storage Unit?
Belongings in a storage unit are often covered by homeowners or renters insurance for fire and theft, but some policies limit them. Exclusions and options.
Read the guide GuideDoes Car Insurance Cover a Cracked Windshield in California?
A cracked windshield is usually covered under comprehensive, minus your deductible. California has no zero-deductible glass law. Repair, replace and rates.
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners Insurance Cover Belongings Stolen While Traveling?
Belongings stolen while you travel are usually covered worldwide by homeowners or renters insurance, minus the deductible. Lost items and baggage are different.
Read the guide GuideTexas Windstorm Insurance (TWIA) Explained
The Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) is the state's insurer of last resort for wind and hail coverage on the coast.
Read the guide GuideThe Texas FAIR Plan Explained
The Texas FAIR Plan Association (TFPA) is an insurer of last resort for basic residential property coverage when regular insurers won't write it.
Read the guide GuideNew York No-Fault Insurance Explained
New York no-fault coverage, or personal injury protection, pays up to $50,000 per person in basic economic loss after a car accident, regardless of fault.
Read the guide GuideNew York Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
New York requires 25/50/10 liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries ($50,000/$100,000 for death), plus $10,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideIllinois Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Illinois requires 25/50/20 liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $20,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideArizona Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Arizona requires 25/50/15 liability for policies issued or renewed since July 1, 2020. UM and UIM must be offered, and Arizona uses pure comparative fault.
Read the guide GuideGeorgia Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Georgia requires 25/50/25 liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideNorth Carolina Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
North Carolina raised its minimum auto liability to 50/100/50 on July 1, 2025, and underinsured motorist coverage is now in all new or renewed policies.
Read the guide GuideColorado Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Colorado requires 25/50/15 liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $15,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideWashington Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Washington requires 25/50/10 liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $10,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuidePennsylvania Full Tort vs. Limited Tort
Pennsylvania drivers choose full tort or limited tort. What each allows for pain-and-suffering claims, the serious injury rule, and how to decide.
Read the guide GuidePennsylvania Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Pennsylvania requires 15/30/5 liability: $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident for injuries, and $5,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideOhio Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Ohio requires 25/50/25 liability or another approved form of financial responsibility, such as a bond. UM and UIM are optional. Proof and penalties.
Read the guide GuideVirginia Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Virginia requires 50/100/25 liability for policies effective since January 1, 2025, plus UM/UIM coverage, and ended the $500 uninsured vehicle fee.
Read the guide GuideMassachusetts Compulsory Auto Insurance Explained
Massachusetts requires four compulsory auto coverages. The limits since July 1, 2025: 25/50 bodily injury, $8,000 PIP, 25/50 uninsured auto, $30,000 property.
Read the guide GuideThe Massachusetts FAIR Plan (MPIUA) Explained
The Massachusetts FAIR Plan is run by the Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriting Association (MPIUA).
Read the guide GuideTennessee Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Tennessee requires 25/50/25 liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideIndiana Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Indiana requires 25/50/25 liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideMissouri Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Missouri requires 25/50/25 liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideMaryland PIP Insurance Explained
Maryland auto policies include at least $2,500 of PIP for medical bills, lost wages and household help regardless of fault, and how the waiver works.
Read the guide GuideLouisiana's No Pay, No Play Law Explained
Louisiana's "no pay, no play" law, R.S. 32:866, limits what uninsured drivers and owners can recover after a crash caused by someone else.
Read the guide GuideLouisiana Citizens Property Insurance Explained
Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation is the state's insurer of last resort for property owners who can't get coverage from a private insurer.
Read the guide GuideWisconsin Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Wisconsin requires liability limits of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries plus $10,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideMinnesota No-Fault Insurance Explained
Minnesota no-fault pays at least $40,000 per person, $20,000 for medical and $20,000 for income loss, regardless of fault, and limits pain-and-suffering suits.
Read the guide GuideSouth Carolina Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
South Carolina requires 25/50/25 liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideSouth Carolina Wind Pool (SCWHUA) Explained
The South Carolina Wind Pool sells wind and hail coverage in the coastal area when the regular market won't. Who qualifies and what else you need.
Read the guide GuideAlabama Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Alabama requires liability insurance of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries, plus $25,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideOregon Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Oregon drivers must carry liability coverage of at least $25,000 per person, $50,000 per crash for injuries and $20,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideOklahoma Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Oklahoma's Compulsory Insurance Law requires at least $25,000 of bodily injury liability per person, $50,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideConnecticut Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Connecticut requires 25/50/25 liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage of at least 25/50, generally matching your liability limits.
Read the guide GuideConnecticut FAIR Plan Explained
The Connecticut FAIR Plan offers basic property insurance to owners of insurable property who can't get coverage in the regular market.
Read the guide GuideUtah PIP and Minimum Car Insurance Explained
Utah requires 30/65/25 liability (or $90,000 combined) since January 1, 2025, plus at least $3,000 of PIP, which limits some lawsuits.
Read the guide GuideNevada Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Nevada requires 25/50/20 liability on every registered vehicle, verified electronically, with no grace period: even a one-day lapse can bring fines.
Read the guide GuideArkansas Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Arkansas law requires only liability insurance: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideIowa Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Iowa requires liability limits of $20,000 per person, $40,000 per accident and $15,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideKansas Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Every Kansas auto policy must carry three things: 25/50/25 liability, personal injury protection (PIP) and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage at 25/50.
Read the guide GuideNebraska Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Nebraska drivers need liability coverage of $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideNew Mexico Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
New Mexico requires $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in bodily injury liability, plus $10,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideIdaho Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Idaho requires continuous liability insurance of at least $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident and $15,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideMontana Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Montana requires continuous liability coverage of $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident and $20,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideWyoming Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Wyoming's liability floor is 25/50/20: $25,000 for one person's injuries, $50,000 for all injuries in a crash, and $20,000 for property.
Read the guide GuideSouth Dakota Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
South Dakota requires liability limits of $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideNorth Dakota No-Fault Insurance Explained
North Dakota requires $30,000 of no-fault PIP per person, 25/50/25 liability and 25/50 UM/UIM coverage. When you can sue for pain and suffering.
Read the guide GuideAlaska Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Alaska requires 50/100/25 liability on vehicles that must be registered, proof while driving, and UM/UIM offers. Where insurance isn't required.
Read the guide GuideHawaii No-Fault Insurance Explained
Hawaii is a no-fault state: every policy needs $10,000 of PIP, and minimum liability rose to 40/80/20 for policies effective on or after January 1, 2026.
Read the guide GuideMaine Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Maine requires 50/100/25 liability (or $125,000 combined), $2,000 of medical payments coverage and 50/100 uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Read the guide GuideNew Hampshire Car Insurance and Financial Responsibility
New Hampshire does not require every driver to buy auto insurance. You must still pay for harm you cause.
Read the guide GuideVermont Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Vermont requires liability insurance of at least $25,000 for one person and $50,000 for two or more persons injured or killed, plus $10,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideRhode Island Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Rhode Island requires 25/50/25 liability or a $75,000 combined limit, certified at registration and kept for the full registration period.
Read the guide GuideDelaware Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Delaware requires 25/50/10 liability and compulsory PIP of $15,000/$30,000. What PIP pays, UM offer rules, $1,500–$4,000 fines and registration audits.
Read the guide GuideWest Virginia Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
West Virginia requires liability insurance of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideMississippi Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Mississippi requires liability insurance of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage.
Read the guide GuideDistrict of Columbia No-Fault Insurance Explained
D.C. requires 25/50/10 liability and 25/50 uninsured motorist coverage on every registered vehicle. PIP is optional but insurers must offer it.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' Comp Requirements by State
Most states require private employers to carry workers' compensation starting with the first employee.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia auto insurance rating factors under Prop 103
The three mandatory auto rating factors in Insurance Code §1861.02, the 20% Good Driver Discount, and why lack of prior insurance can't be used against you.
Read the guide GuideThe Medi-Cal asset limit is back
Since January 1, 2026, Medi-Cal counts assets again for seniors and people with disabilities: $130,000 for one person, plus $65,000 per extra household member.
Read the guide GuideNewlywed Insurance Checklist
Just married? Combining auto and home or renters policies, health insurance special enrollment, life insurance beneficiaries, rings and name changes.
Read the guide GuideInsurance Claim Denied? How to Appeal in California
Claim denied or underpaid in California? Read the letter, get your claim file, add evidence, use appraisal, file a CDI complaint, and know when to get help.
Read the guide GuideProduct Liability for Shopify, Etsy and Dropshipping Sellers
Product liability for online sellers: seller vs. manufacturer liability, private label and importing risk, dropshipping contracts and recalls.
Read the guide GuideIs Professional Liability Insurance Required in California?
California doesn't require most professionals to carry E&O insurance, but some professions have rules, and clients and contracts often require it.
Read the guide GuideThe Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund (MAIF) Explained
The Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund (MAIF) is a state-created insurer of last resort for drivers who can't get auto insurance in the private market.
Read the guide GuideSC Safe Home Grants Explained
SC Safe Home grants help coastal South Carolina homeowners pay for resilient roofs and shutters: up to $7,500, depending on the project and income.
Read the guide GuideAging Parent Moving In: Insurance Checklist
Tell your homeowners insurer that a parent is moving in, and ask whether they count as a resident relative covered for belongings and liability.
Read the guide GuideChanging or Losing a Job: Insurance Checklist
Before your last day, find out when your employer health, life and disability coverage ends.
Read the guide GuideDo Contractors Need Different Insurance to Work in Another State?
Working across state lines: make sure workers' comp lists the state, liability and auto apply there, and you meet licensing and bonding rules.
Read the guide GuideDo I Need Insurance for a Side Business?
Often yes. Homeowners and renters policies usually provide little or no coverage for business property and exclude liability arising from business activities.
Read the guide GuideDo Personal Trainers Need Insurance?
Personal trainers usually need professional liability for training advice and general liability for injuries. Gym rules, online coaching and more.
Read the guide GuideTexas Roof Insurance
Before hail season in Texas, check your wind/hail deductible, whether your roof is paid at replacement cost or actual cash value, and cosmetic exclusions.
Read the guide GuideUmbrella liability insurance for California landlords
Why California landlords face negligence liability under Civil Code 1714, and how an umbrella sits above landlord and auto policies. LLCs and limits.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia nonprofit board D&O insurance and volunteer director immunity
California's volunteer director immunity under Corporations Code §5239 depends on liability insurance. What boards need to know about D&O coverage.
Read the guide GuideAdditional Living Expenses (Loss of Use) Coverage
What additional living expenses (loss of use) coverage pays when a covered loss forces you out of your home, how long it lasts, and how to claim it.
Read the guide GuideInsurance for Cannabis-Adjacent Businesses in California
Insurance for landlords, vendors, software firms and hemp/CBD sellers that serve California's cannabis market but don't touch the plant themselves.
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Leaks?
Homeowners insurance usually covers roof leaks from sudden damage like wind, hail or a fallen tree, but not leaks from age, wear and tear or poor upkeep.
Read the guide GuideDo I Need Insurance to Sell Cottage Food?
Often not by law. State cottage food rules, such as those in Texas and Colorado, generally don't require home food sellers to carry liability insurance.
Read the guide GuideHomeowners insurance non-renewal notice rules by state
How much notice insurers must give before non-renewing a homeowners policy, for all 50 states and D.C., with statute links and a CSV.
Read the guide GuideAlabama homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
What Alabama law says about homeowners non-renewal notices, and what to do if you get one.
Read the guide GuideAlaska homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Alaska requires at least 45 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under AS 21.36.240. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideArkansas homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Arkansas requires at least 30 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under Ark. Code §23-88-105. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideConnecticut homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Connecticut requires at least 60 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under Conn. Gen. Stat. §38a-323. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideDelaware homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Delaware requires at least 30 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under 18 Del. C. ch. 41, subch. III. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideFlorida homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Florida requires at least 120 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under Fla. Stat. §627.4133. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideGeorgia homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Georgia requires at least 60 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under O.C.G.A. §33-24-46. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideHawaii homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Hawaii requires at least 30 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under HRS §431:10-226.5. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideIdaho homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
What Idaho law says about homeowners non-renewal notices, and what to do if you get one.
Read the guide GuideIndiana homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Indiana requires at least 20 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under Ind. Code §27-7-12-4. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideIowa homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Iowa requires at least 60 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under Iowa Code §515.129B. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideKansas homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
What Kansas law says about homeowners non-renewal notices, and what to do if you get one.
Read the guide GuideKentucky homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Kentucky requires at least 75 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under KRS 304.20-320. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideLouisiana homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Louisiana requires at least 60 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under La. R.S. 22:1335. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideMaine homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Maine requires at least 30 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under 24-A M.R.S. §3051. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideMississippi homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Mississippi requires at least 45 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under Miss. Code §83-5-28. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideMissouri homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Missouri requires at least 30 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under RSMo §375.004. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideMontana homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Montana requires at least 45 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under MCA §33-23-401. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideNebraska homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Nebraska requires at least 60 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under Neb. Rev. Stat. §44-522. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideNevada homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Nevada requires at least 30 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under NRS 687B.340. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideNew Hampshire homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
New Hampshire requires at least 45 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under RSA 417-B:4. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideNew Mexico homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
New Mexico requires at least 30 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under 13.8.4.9 NMAC. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideNorth Dakota homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
North Dakota requires at least 45 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under N.D.C.C. ch. 26.1-39. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideOklahoma homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Oklahoma requires at least 60 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under OAC 365:15 (2026). What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideOregon homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Oregon requires at least 30 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under ORS 746.687. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideRhode Island homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Rhode Island requires at least 60 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under R.I. Gen. Laws §27-29-17.2. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideSouth Carolina homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
South Carolina requires at least 60 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under S.C. Code §38-75-740. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideSouth Dakota homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
South Dakota requires at least 30 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under SDCL §58-1-15. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideTexas homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Texas requires at least 60 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under Tex. Ins. Code §551.105. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideUtah homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Utah requires at least 30 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under Utah Code §31A-21-303. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideVermont homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Vermont requires at least 45 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under 8 V.S.A. §4713. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideWest Virginia homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
West Virginia requires at least 30 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under W. Va. Code §33-17A-4. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideWisconsin homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Wisconsin requires at least 60 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under Wis. Stat. §631.36. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideWyoming homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Wyoming requires at least 45 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under Wyo. Stat. §26-35-203. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideWashington, D.C. homeowners insurance non-renewal rules
Washington, D.C. requires at least 30 days' notice of a homeowners non-renewal under 26-A DCMR §301. What the notice must include and what to do next.
Read the guide GuideIs Your Home Underinsured? Warning Signs and How to Check
Signs your home may be underinsured: a limit based on market value, recent renovations, rising building costs, no extended replacement cost, an old estimate.
Read the guide GuidePower Outages and Insurance: What's Covered?
Does home or renters insurance cover spoiled food, surge damage or hotel costs in an outage? On- vs. off-premises outages, power shutoffs and generators.
Read the guide GuideThe Coinsurance Clause in Commercial Property Insurance
What a coinsurance clause means in commercial property insurance, how the penalty is figured, and how agreed value and regular valuations avoid it.
Read the guide GuideInflation Guard Endorsement: Keeping Your Coverage Current
What an inflation guard endorsement does, how automatic limit increases work, and why it doesn't replace a regular replacement cost review.
Read the guide GuideRenting Out a Room
How renting a spare room to a roommate or boarder affects your homeowners insurance: liability, property coverage, your tenant's own policy and leases.
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners Insurance Cover Foundation Cracks?
Homeowners insurance usually excludes foundation cracks from settling, wear or earth movement, but may cover damage from a sudden covered event.
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Heater Leaks?
Homeowners insurance usually covers sudden water damage from a burst or leaking water heater, but not replacing the heater itself or slow leaks.
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners Insurance Cover Burst Pipes?
Homeowners insurance usually covers sudden water damage from a burst pipe, but often not the pipe itself, slow leaks or freezing if the home wasn't heated.
Read the guide GuideIs Homeowners Insurance Required in California?
Not by state law. California doesn't legally require homeowners insurance.
Read the guide GuideIs Earthquake Insurance Required in California?
No. California doesn't require homeowners, condo owners or renters to buy earthquake insurance, and most mortgage lenders don't require it either.
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners Insurance Cover Wildfire Smoke Damage?
Smoke is a standard covered peril, so sudden smoke, soot and ash damage from a nearby wildfire is usually covered even if the fire never reaches your home.
Read the guide GuideRebuilding after a wildfire in Los Angeles
For LA wildfire rebuilds: the 36-month replacement cost window, 6-month extensions, the 100-day proof-of-loss rule and rebuilding elsewhere, from the statute.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia homeowners insurance cancellation and non-renewal rules
When a California home insurer can cancel mid-term (Ins. Code 676), the 10- and 20-day cancellation notices, and the 75-day nonrenewal notice (678).
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners Insurance Cover Termite Damage?
Homeowners insurance almost never covers termite damage, because insects and gradual damage are excluded. The narrow exceptions and what to do instead.
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners Insurance Cover Solar Panels?
Homeowners insurance usually covers rooftop solar panels you own as part of the dwelling. Leased panels are usually the leasing company's to insure.
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners Insurance Cover Power Surges and Lightning?
Lightning usually yes; other power surges, it depends. Homeowners policies generally cover damage caused by lightning, including surges it sends through wiring.
Read the guide GuideHow Are Homeowners Insurance Premiums Calculated in California?
What goes into a California homeowners premium: rebuild cost, wildfire risk, construction, roof, claims, coverage choices, discounts and Prop 103 approval.
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners Insurance Cover AC and HVAC Breakdown?
Homeowners insurance usually doesn't pay when an AC, heat pump or furnace breaks down from age or wear, but may cover damage from fire, lightning or a surge.
Read the guide GuideDoes Renters Insurance Cover a Roommate's Belongings?
Usually not. Renters insurance typically covers the named insured, their spouse or domestic partner, and resident relatives, not unrelated roommates.
Read the guide GuideState insurance rules
Your state's homeowners nonrenewal rules, claim deadlines, uninsured motorist and PIP requirements, with comparison tables, CSV downloads and official links.
Read the guide GuideUninsured and underinsured motorist requirements by state
Which states require uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, which let you reject it in writing, and the minimums, with links to each law.
Read the guide GuidePIP and no-fault states
Which states require personal injury protection (PIP), the minimum benefits, which are true no-fault states that limit lawsuits, and where PIP is only offered.
Read the guide GuidePalisades and Eaton fire rebuild
Who issues your rebuild permit (City of LA for the Palisades, LA County for Altadena), the like-for-like rules, and the insurance deadlines that run alongside.
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners Insurance Cover E-Bikes?
Some homeowners and renters policies cover an e-bike against theft or fire, but many exclude motorized vehicles and riding liability. What to check.
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners Insurance Cover EV Chargers?
A hardwired EV charger is usually covered as part of your home, and a portable one as belongings, against covered perils like fire. What to check.
Read the guide GuideIs Flood Insurance Required in California?
Not by state law. California doesn't require homeowners to buy flood insurance.
Read the guide GuideDoes Homeowners Insurance Cover Detached Garages, Sheds and Fences?
Detached garages, sheds and fences are usually covered under other structures coverage (Coverage B), often up to a percentage of your dwelling limit.
Read the guide GuideSR-22 requirements by state
How long an SR-22 or FR-44 filing lasts in key states, what usually triggers it, and the official source for each.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia renters insurance and landlord requirements
No California statute requires tenants to carry renters insurance, but a lease can make it a condition of renting.
Read the guide GuideInsuring a vacant home or lot after a California wildfire
California's limits on canceling a home policy while you rebuild after a wildfire (Ins. Code 675.1), and the renewal offers for at least 24 months.
Read the guide GuideDiminished value claim rules by state
Official state rules and regulator positions on diminished value car insurance claims, with appraisal rights and first- vs third-party rules.
Read the guide GuideRideshare insurance requirements by state
The minimum insurance state law requires for Uber and Lyft drivers while the app is on and during rides, with the official statute for each state.
Read the guide GuideTeen driver license rules by state
Provisional (graduated) license rules for teen drivers in key states, read from each statute, plus what parents should ask their insurer.
Read the guide GuideZero-deductible auto glass laws by state
Which states require insurers to waive the deductible on windshield and auto glass claims, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideDog bite strict liability states
States where dog owners are liable for bites regardless of the dog's history, read from each statute, plus what it means for your home or renters policy.
Read the guide GuideHit-and-run UM claim reporting deadlines by state
How fast you must report a hit-and-run to police and your insurer to keep uninsured motorist coverage, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia rental car damage rules and your insurance
California rental companies can't force you to buy the damage waiver. What you owe if you decline it, what it covers if you buy it, and your own insurance.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' comp for household employees in California
A nanny, housekeeper, gardener or caregiver can be your employee for California workers' comp, and your homeowners or renters policy usually covers it.
Read the guide GuidePublic adjuster rules by state
Licensing, fee caps and contract cancellation rights for public adjusters in key states, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideSeat belt evidence in injury claims by state
Whether not wearing a seat belt can reduce an injury claim, and by how much, in states we verified, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideElectronic proof of auto insurance by state
Which states let you show proof of auto insurance on your phone, with the statute for each and what police may and may not look at.
Read the guide GuideHomeowners claim-related non-renewal limits by state
State laws that limit homeowners non-renewal after claims, inquiries or disaster damage, with the statute for each.
Read the guide GuideReplacement cost vs. ACV claim rules by state
Actual cash value (ACV) is replacement cost minus depreciation. Many replacement cost policies pay ACV first and the rest after you repair or replace.
Read the guide GuideLife insurance grace periods by state
Minimum life insurance premium grace periods and lapse notice rules, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideMature driver course insurance discounts by state
State laws requiring car insurance discounts for drivers 55 and older who complete an approved accident prevention course, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' comp injury reporting deadlines for employees by state
How long an injured worker has to notify the employer of a work injury to keep workers' compensation benefits, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideContractor license bond requirements by state
Surety bond and liability insurance amounts contractors need to get or keep a license or registration, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideDram shop and liquor liability laws by state
When bars, restaurants and alcohol sellers can be liable for serving alcohol, and where liquor liability insurance is required, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideLife insurance death claim interest laws by state
When life insurers must add interest to death benefit payments, read from each state's statute.
Read the guide GuideNamed driver exclusion laws by state
Where car insurance policies can exclude a specific driver by name, and what the exclusion means, read from each state's statute or insurance regulator.
Read the guide GuideThe NFIP 30-day flood insurance waiting period
When NFIP flood insurance starts: the 30-day waiting period and the loan, map-change and post-wildfire exceptions, from 42 U.S.C. §4013(c).
Read the guide GuideTotal loss valuation rules by state
State rules on how insurers must value a totaled car, from comparables and dealer quotes to taxes and fees, read from each statute or regulation.
Read the guide GuideCar insurance lapse and driving-uninsured penalties by state
Fines and penalties for driving without insurance or letting auto coverage lapse, taken from each state's statute.
Read the guide GuidePolicyholder claim and lawsuit deadlines by state
Policyholder deadlines for property insurance claim notice and lawsuits against an insurer, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideUninsured motorist property damage rules by state
Whether uninsured motorist property damage coverage is required or offered, the limits and deductibles, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' comp claim filing deadlines by state
How long an injured worker has to file a workers' compensation claim or petition, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideCar owner liability for permissive drivers by state
Whether you're liable when someone you lend your car to causes a crash, and the statutory limits, read from each state's statute.
Read the guide GuideLife insurance buyer's guide for California families
For most California families, life insurance is about replacing income and paying off what you owe if a parent or partner dies.
Read the guide GuideBurn-scar mudflows in Los Angeles
After a wildfire, mudflows can hit homes below burn scars. How the NFIP defines mudflow vs. landslide, and the post-wildfire waiting-period exception.
Read the guide GuideAuto repair shop choice laws by state
State laws on choosing your own auto repair shop after a car insurance claim, read from each statute or regulation.
Read the guide GuideCar insurance cancellation and non-renewal notice rules by state
How much notice an auto insurer must give before canceling or not renewing your policy, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideUM/UIM stacking rules by state
Whether you can stack (add together) uninsured and underinsured motorist limits across vehicles or policies, read from each statute.
Read the guide GuideInsurance bad faith penalty laws by state
What policyholders can recover when an insurer unreasonably delays or denies a claim, read from each state's statute.
Read the guide GuideHome insurance appraisal clause rules by state
How the appraisal process works for disputed home insurance claim amounts under each state's standard fire policy law.
Read the guide GuideNot-at-fault accident surcharge rules by state
State laws that bar car insurance surcharges and premium increases after accidents you didn't cause, read from each statute or regulation.
Read the guide GuideThe complete guide to buying home insurance in Los Angeles after the 2025 fires
How to buy home insurance in Los Angeles after the 2025 Palisades and Eaton fires: start early, compare admitted, surplus lines and FAIR Plan plus DIC.
Read the guide GuideHow to file and win a home insurance claim in California, step by step
Step by step: protect the property, document everything, report promptly, get your policy and claim file, and know California's claim rights and deadlines.
Read the guide GuideThe California car insurance buyer's guide for 2026
California car insurance in 2026: the 30/60/15 minimums, the coverages most buyers add, how prices are set under Prop 103, and how to compare quotes.
Read the guide GuideSmall business insurance in California
California law requires very little business insurance, but what it does require is serious.
Read the guide GuideHow to switch insurance companies without a coverage gap
To switch insurance companies without a gap, buy the new policy first and cancel the old one second.
Read the guide GuideInsurance checklist for new homeowners in California
Your first year as a California homeowner: match the policy to the home, check the dwelling limit, confirm your lender has proof, and decide on add-ons.
Read the guide GuideCondo and HO-6 insurance guide for Los Angeles condo owners
How the HOA master policy and your HO-6 condo policy fit together in Los Angeles: walls-in coverage, loss assessment, earthquake and what to check.
Read the guide GuideLandlord insurance guide for California rental owners
If you rent out a house, condo, duplex or ADU in California, a regular homeowners policy usually isn't the right fit once a tenant moves in.
Read the guide GuideEarthquake insurance in Los Angeles: is it worth it?
Is earthquake insurance worth it in Los Angeles? Compare deductibles to your savings, see what drives the price and how a retrofit can lower it.
Read the guide GuideWorkers' comp guide for California small employers
In California, you need workers' compensation insurance from your first employee, full- or part-time (Labor Code §3700).
Read the guide GuideCommercial auto and fleet insurance guide for California businesses
California commercial auto and fleet insurance: legal minimums, motor carrier permit limits, hired and non-owned auto, drivers and claims, step by step.
Read the guide GuideInsurance for California contractors and tradespeople
What California contractors and tradespeople need: the $25,000 CSLB bond, workers' comp rules by trade, LLC liability limits and general liability.
Read the guide GuideRenters insurance guide for Los Angeles renters
A step-by-step renters insurance guide for Los Angeles: what an HO-4 covers, how to pick a personal property and liability limit, and what to check.
Read the guide GuideUmbrella insurance guide for high-net-worth Los Angeles families
A personal umbrella policy adds a large layer of liability protection, usually in $1 million steps, on top of your home, auto and other personal policies.
Read the guide GuideInsurance for Los Angeles restaurants, step by step
Almost every Los Angeles restaurant with employees must carry workers' compensation; that part is the law.
Read the guide GuideInsurance guide for California rideshare and delivery drivers
When you drive for a rideshare or delivery app in California, your coverage depends on what the app shows at the moment of an accident.
Read the guide GuideTeen driver insurance guide for California parents
In California, a teen learns on a permit, then drives with a provisional license that limits nighttime driving and teen passengers for the first year.
Read the guide GuideHow to read your auto insurance policy
How to read your California auto policy: the declarations page, coverages and limits, deductibles, exclusions, endorsements and your claim rights.
Read the guide GuideInsurance for California nonprofits, step by step
A California nonprofit needs insurance for three groups: the organization itself, its board and its people.
Read the guide GuideCyber insurance for California small businesses
Cyber insurance for California small businesses: the 30-day breach notice rule, CCPA damages, what first- and third-party cyber covers, and steps to take.
Read the guide GuideFlood insurance guide for Los Angeles homeowners
Standard homeowners policies in California exclude flood and mudflow, so if water or mud comes into your home from outside, your home policy usually won't pay.
Read the guide GuideInsurance for Los Angeles hillside homes
Insuring a Los Angeles hillside home: wildfire, earth movement and retaining walls, mudflow and flood, earthquake, defensible space and what to check.
Read the guide GuideInsurance for California freelancers and the self-employed
Insurance for California freelancers and the self-employed: professional and general liability, equipment and cyber, disability and health, step by step.
Read the guide GuideHow to choose your home insurance deductible in California
Your deductible is the amount you pay toward a covered property claim before your insurer pays.
Read the guide GuideInsurance for California e-commerce and online sellers
Insurance for California online sellers: product liability, inventory in storage and in transit, Prop 65 basics, cyber and payment fraud, step by step.
Read the guide GuideBundling home and auto insurance in California
Bundling means buying your home (or condo or renters) policy and your auto policy from the same insurance company, usually to get a multi-policy discount.
Read the guide GuideElectric vehicle insurance guide for California drivers
Insuring an EV in California: same minimums and Prop 103 rules, but higher repair and battery costs, total-loss risk, charger coverage and repair rights.
Read the guide GuideMoving to Los Angeles: insurance step by step
Moving to Los Angeles: switch to a California auto policy, register your car within 20 days, get a license within 10 days and insure your new home.
Read the guide GuideCalifornia senior driver insurance guide: 55 and older
California drivers 55 and older: the mature driver course discount, low-mileage rates, renewing your license at 70 and choosing limits to protect savings.
Read the guide GuideMedicare Open Enrollment 2026: a checklist for your 2027 coverage
Medicare Open Enrollment runs Oct. 15–Dec. 7, 2026 for coverage starting Jan. 1, 2027. What you can change, the 2027 Part D numbers CMS finalized ($700 standard deductible, $2,400 out-of-pocket threshold), Medigap traps, and the deadlines after Dec. 7.
Read the guide GuideHit a deer? How car insurance handles animal collisions
Deer and other animal strikes peak October through December. Which part of your auto policy pays (comprehensive, not liability or collision), what changes if you swerve, when to call police, and state rules on surcharges, with links to state insurance regulators.
Read the guide GuideIce dams, snow load and roof collapse: what home insurance covers
How homeowners and renters insurance usually treats ice dam leaks, roof collapse from the weight of snow and ice, snowmelt flooding and trees downed by ice storms, plus FEMA-based snow weight figures, overload warning signs and a winter claim checklist.
Read the guide GuideHoliday fires and home insurance: trees, candles, cooking and space heaters
Cooking and heating are the top two causes of U.S. home fires, and the holidays add trees, lights and candles. What homeowners and renters insurance usually pays after a holiday fire, limits on gifts and valuables, guest injuries, travel and vacancy, and USFA prevention steps.
Read the guide GuideStolen package? How homeowners and renters insurance handle porch theft
Porch piracy peaks with holiday deliveries. When homeowners or renters insurance pays for a stolen package, why the deductible usually decides it, who to contact first (seller, carrier, card issuer, police), and the 'package protection' scam state regulators warn about.
Read the guide GuideCar stolen while warming up? Insurance and unattended-vehicle laws explained
Leaving a car running to warm up ('puffing') is a winter theft magnet. Which coverage pays if it's stolen (comprehensive), what's covered for belongings and rentals, how state unattended-vehicle laws like Michigan's and Ohio's treat remote starters, and what to do in the first 24 hours.
Read the guide GuideLithium-ion battery and e-bike fires: prevention rules and insurance claims
CPSC, the U.S. Fire Administration and FDNY on charging, storing and disposing of e-bike, scooter and power-tool batteries, plus how a battery fire claim works under homeowners, renters and landlord policies.
Read the guide GuideACA Marketplace Open Enrollment for 2027 coverage: deadlines and a checklist
HealthCare.gov Open Enrollment for 2027 plans runs Nov. 1, 2026 to Jan. 15, 2027. Key deadlines, how automatic re-enrollment works, why your premium tax credit may change, the 2027 immigration-status rule and state Marketplace exceptions.
Read the guide GuideCarbon monoxide alarms, state laws and home insurance claims
CO is colorless and odorless. USFA and CPSC placement rules, Colorado's alarm statute as a detailed example, generator and heater hazards, and how homeowners or renters claims can intersect with winter heating and negligence rules.
Read the guide GuideIcy roads and winter driving insurance claims: sliding on ice, fault and coverage
Sliding on black ice does not automatically erase fault. Oregon DFR, Oklahoma and Indiana DOI guidance on collision vs liability, NHTSA snow/sleet crash figures and winter-driving tips, and a claim checklist.
Read the guide GuideHome break-ins while traveling: burglary claims, vacancy clauses and what to do before you leave
FBI travel-burglary tips, Texas and California 60-day vacancy limits, theft coverage, scheduled valuables and claim steps when you're away.
Read the guide GuideSnowmobile insurance requirements by state: registration, liability and proof
Which states require snowmobile liability insurance, what the minimums are (NY, NJ, IL, VT, ND, PA, SD), when registration applies, and why a sled often needs its own policy—not just homeowners or auto.
Read the guide GuideFrozen pipes and freeze damage: how home insurance claims really get decided
Regulators in NH, MD, DC, Indiana, Oklahoma and Texas agree: a burst frozen pipe is often covered only if you kept heat on or shut off and drained the water. Vacancy rules, winterizing before you travel, and claim steps.
Read the guide GuideSki and snowboard trip insurance: what covers what
What covers a ski trip: travel insurance for cancellation and evacuation, your health plan and No Surprises Act air-ambulance rules, Medicare abroad, homeowners or renters for gear, and liability if you hit another skier. NAIC, State Department, CMS and Colorado's Ski Safety Act.
Read the guide GuidePortable heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves and chimney fires: how home insurance claims work
USFA: portable heaters are 3% of heating fires but 41% of fatal ones. Chimney, fireplace and space-heater fire claims, claim steps, and official prevention rules.
Read the guide GuideStorm contractor scams and temporary repairs after winter weather damage
FTC and state DOI red flags for post-storm contractors, temporary vs permanent repairs, deductible-waiver illegality in TX/FL, and claim steps.
Read the guide GuideSnowy sidewalk slip-and-fall liability: shoveling laws and what home insurance does
Who is liable when someone slips on your icy sidewalk? NYC, Chicago and Boston shoveling deadlines, NYC's §7-210 owner liability rule, and how liability and med pay coverage respond.
Read the guide GuideGenerators and home insurance: backfeeding, CO deaths, theft and standby units
CPSC generator CO fatality data, why backfeeding a house endangers lineworkers, transfer switches, refueling fires, and which homeowners coverages usually apply to portable and standby generators.
Read the guide GuideSump pump failure and basement water: what home and flood policies usually cover
Mass.gov and NFIP rules on sump-pump failure vs flood, NAIC sewer/sump endorsements, basement coverage limits, and fall storm prep.
Read the guide GuideTurkey fryer and Thanksgiving cooking fires: CPSC COOK rules and home insurance
CPSC’s COOK turkey-fryer checklist, USFA 10-foot outdoor rules, NFPA Thanksgiving cooking-fire stats, and how homeowners fire, ALE and liability coverage usually map.
Read the guide GuideSmoke alarm laws, 10-year sealed batteries and home insurance
USFA and NFPA smoke-alarm placement rules, ionization vs photoelectric, 10-year replacement, sample IL and FL 10-year sealed-battery statutes, and how working alarms relate to fire claims.
Read the guide GuideCall 811 before you dig: state one-call laws, utility line damage, and home insurance
Planting trees, setting fence posts or a mailbox this fall? What PHMSA and federal rules say about calling 811, wait times, reporting damage, and how homeowners liability and service-line coverage map if a line is hit.
Read the guide GuideReplacing a car seat after a crash: NHTSA's minor-crash test and how to get the replacement paid for
When NHTSA says a child car seat must be replaced after a crash, the five-part minor-crash test, how to claim the cost from the at-fault driver's insurer or your own, California's replacement rule, and choosing the new seat.
Read the guide GuideVehicle safety recalls: how to check your VIN, your right to a free fix, used and rental car rules, and what auto insurance covers
How to check a car for open safety recalls, what federal law says about free repairs, deadlines and reimbursement, the Takata air bag recall, used and rental car rules, and how insurance applies if a defect causes a crash or fire.
Read the guide GuideFlood-damaged used cars: how to spot one, how title washing works, the free federal history check, and what insurance covers after a flood
After hurricanes and floods, water-damaged cars can be cleaned up and resold far away. Inspection red flags, salvage vs. flood vs. rebuilt titles, how title washing works, free vehicle history checks, and how comprehensive coverage handles a flooded car.
Read the guide GuideCatalytic converter theft: why converters get stolen, how to deter it, and how auto comprehensive insurance usually responds
Thieves can cut a catalytic converter off in one to two minutes. DOJ, California BAR/CARB and Michigan DIFS explain the precious-metal motive, deterrence steps, Smog Check replacement rules, and how comprehensive coverage (and your deductible) usually apply.
Read the guide GuideWashing machine hose and appliance supply-line leaks: how to prevent a laundry-room flood, and how homeowners insurance usually treats sudden water damage
Delaware DOI calls burst washing-machine hoses among the costliest water claims. EPA WaterSense: check for pooling behind washers and consider automatic shut-off after catastrophic hose failures. What sudden discharge usually covers, what gradual leaks and mold exclude, and a prevention checklist.
Read the guide GuideForce-placed homeowners insurance: the federal notice timeline, what the servicer must refund, and how to replace it with your own policy
Your mortgage servicer can buy force-placed hazard insurance and bill you if your homeowners policy lapses. CFPB Regulation X requires a 45-day notice, a 15-day reminder and cancellation plus refund within 15 days of proof. NAIC and New York examples.
Read the guide GuideSinkhole insurance: why earth movement is excluded, what Florida and Tennessee require, and how a sinkhole claim works
Standard homeowners policies usually exclude earth movement. Florida requires catastrophic ground cover collapse coverage and offers optional sinkhole coverage with 1–10% deductibles; Tennessee requires insurers to make sinkhole coverage available on request. USGS risk areas and claim steps.
Read the guide GuideHit a pothole? How your auto policy responds, and when (if ever) the road owner pays
Pothole damage is normally a collision claim under your auto policy. Claims against government road owners face strict deadlines and immunity rules: Caltrans six months, NYC 90-day notice, Michigan MDOT under $1,000 and 120-day notice, and Pennsylvania bars property-damage recovery.
Read the guide GuideTelematics and usage-based car insurance: what’s tracked, how it changes your premium, and the state rules that limit it
Telematics programs track mileage, braking, speed and phone use to price auto insurance, and your premium can go down or up. Maryland requires 45 days’ notice naming the driving factors; California permits verified-mileage devices but bars location tracking for rating. NAIC, WA and AL guidance.
Read the guide GuideMilitary deployment, SCRA, and your car: what federal law actually covers, and how storing the vehicle affects auto insurance
Deploying? Texas DOI explains when you may suspend auto liability if the car is stored, and why collision/comprehensive often stay. SCRA covers vehicle-lease exits, storage liens, life insurance and professional liability — not a federal auto-premium cut.
Read the guide GuideFinal expense life insurance vs. preneed funeral contracts: what the FTC Funeral Rule and NAIC disclosures require you to hear
Final expense life insurance pays a cash death benefit you control; a preneed funeral contract prepays specific goods and services. FTC Funeral Rule price-list rights, NAIC Model 580 disclosures, Kentucky and Colorado examples.
Read the guide GuideTowing a trailer with a personal auto: hitch, brakes, lights, and what insurance usually covers
CA DMV trailer brake (≥1,500 lb), light and hitch-weight guidance; Texas DPS trailer brake thresholds; TDI on auto liability while towing vs separate RV/boat trailer damage coverage. Practical pre-trip checklist.
Read the guide GuideRadon testing and real estate disclosure: EPA action levels and home insurance
EPA’s 4 pCi/L radon action level, Citizen’s and Home Buyer’s Guides, Map of Radon Zones, sample Illinois and Colorado disclosure rules, and how homeowners coverage usually maps.
Read the guide GuideSeptic system failure and maintenance: EPA care tips and home insurance
EPA septic inspection and pumping intervals, failure warning signs, drainfield care, sudden water vs sewer-backup endorsements, and how homeowners coverage usually maps.
Read the guide GuideDaylight saving time ends Nov 1: pedestrian crash risk after dark and how auto insurance responds
Clocks fall back Nov 1, 2026. NHTSA data on pedestrian deaths in the dark, walking and driving tips, and how liability, medical payments, PIP and uninsured motorist coverage apply.
Read the guide GuideAftermarket vs OEM crash parts: what insurers may specify, what must be disclosed, and how repair estimates work
NAIC After Market Parts Model Regulation 891 requires like-kind-and-quality parts and a written disclosure when non-OEM exterior crash parts are used. Mississippi DOI and Texas Insurance Code §1952.301 examples, plus what to ask on an estimate.
Read the guide GuideProof of loss after a home claim: deadlines, what to attach, and how NFIP and state rules differ
What a proof of loss is (CA DOI), Texas TDI claim clocks, Minnesota 60-day POL notice rule, California’s 100-day emergency minimum (Ins. Code 2051.5 / Bulletin 2026-5), and NFIP’s standard 60-day SFIP deadline.
Read the guide GuideFurnace and central heating fires: fall startup checks, USFA prevention rules, and how homeowners insurance usually pays
USFA: about 32,200 U.S. home heating fires in 2021. Annual professional furnace and chimney inspection, 3-foot clearance, and how homeowners dwelling, contents and ALE usually respond after a heating-system fire. Distinct from portable-heater guidance.
Read the guide GuideComparative vs. contributory negligence by state: how shared fault changes an auto insurance claim
Cornell LII: Alabama, Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia and D.C. still use contributory negligence (any claimant fault can bar recovery); most states use modified or pure comparative fault. Illinois DOI explains how insurers apply shared-fault percentages to liability offers.
Read the guide GuideParental and vicarious liability for teen drivers: what license-signing statutes mean for auto insurance
California Vehicle Code §§17707–17709, Montana 61-5-108 and Colorado 42-2-108 show how signing a minor’s license or affidavit can make a parent jointly liable. How that interacts with auto liability, UM/UIM and umbrellas.
Read the guideWork out your own numbers
Three calculators that give you an answer on the page, with every assumption and rule behind them printed underneath. Free, no email, and nothing you type leaves your browser.
California home rebuild cost estimator
A wide, transparent planning range for what it would cost to rebuild your house, with every assumption printed on the page.
Use the tool ToolHome insurance non-renewal: your 75-day plan
Put the date from your notice in and get a dated checklist — when to shop, when to request the FAIR Plan, when the DIC has to be in place, and the day coverage ends.
Use the tool ToolAre you ready for California’s 2028 contractor workers’ comp rule?
Answer six questions and find out whether the rule reaches you now or on January 1, 2028, and what CSLB will expect.
Use the tool ToolCalifornia Wildfire Insurance Checklist
A printable California wildfire insurance checklist: before fire season, during evacuation and after a loss, with CDI, FAIR Plan and CAL FIRE links.
Use the tool ToolHome Inventory Template
Printable room-by-room home inventory template for insurance claims, plus a downloadable CSV version.
Use the tool ToolHow Much Home Insurance Coverage Do I Need? Worksheet
A private worksheet to check your dwelling, other structures, belongings and living expense limits against your own rebuild figures.
Use the tool ToolFAIR Plans and Last-Resort Home Insurance by State
A state-by-state table of FAIR Plans, coastal wind pools and state-created insurers of last resort for home insurance, with official links.
Use the tool ToolMinimum Car Insurance Requirements by State (2026)
Minimum auto liability limits in every state and Washington, DC, with PIP and uninsured motorist notes and links to each state's regulator.
Use the tool ToolCoverage review
Upload your declarations page; see what your policy covers, what to double-check and what it leaves out.
Use the tool ToolWhat insurance does my contract require?
Upload a contract or lease; get every coverage, limit and endorsement it asks for, in plain English.
Use the tool ToolCertificate of insurance checker
Upload a subcontractor’s certificate; see what’s expired, short or missing before they start.
Use the toolWritten for the moment a deadline shows up
Most people don’t read about insurance until something forces the issue: a non-renewal notice with a date on it, an escrow officer asking for proof of coverage, a general contractor who won’t let a crew on site without a certificate, or a new trucking authority that can’t run until its filings are in.
Each guide explains the rules that apply in California, the options that usually exist, and what to gather before you call anyone, so you can act before the deadline instead of after it. They are written by Sam Alishahi, a licensed California insurance broker (license #4348151), and reviewed when rules or programs change.
The guides are general information, not legal advice, and coverage always depends on the policy actually issued. For your own situation, send a quote request or call (877) 711-4545, answered 24/7.
Get a reminder before your renewal.
Tell me when your policy renews and I’ll email you about six weeks before, when it’s worth comparing. One email, no calls.