When Should You Decrease Your Life Insurance Policy?

Posted on August 29, 2025August 26, 2025 by admin

Life insurance is one of those things we often set and forget. However, as life changes, your coverage should evolve too. At Garrison Insurance Group, serving Lilburn, GA, we help clients understand when it might be time to scale back their life insurance, because sometimes, less really is more.

Your Kids Are Grown and Independent

One of the primary reasons people purchase life insurance is to provide for their children in the event of an unexpected occurrence. Once your kids are adults with their own careers and families, your financial responsibility to them may decrease significantly. If your policy was designed to support them through school or early adulthood, it might be time to revisit the amount you’re carrying.

You’ve Paid Off Major Debts

If your mortgage is paid off and you’re no longer carrying large loans, you may not need as much coverage. Life insurance is often intended to cover outstanding debts so your family doesn’t bear the burden. With fewer financial obligations, a smaller policy may still meet your needs without overextending your budget.

You’re Nearing Retirement

As you approach retirement, your financial picture changes. Your children may be financially independent, your home may be paid off, and you’ve likely built up some savings. In this case, a large life insurance policy might not be necessary. A smaller policy could provide just enough to cover final expenses or leave a modest legacy.

Let’s Reevaluate Together

Life insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all, and your needs will change over time. If you’re wondering whether now is the right time to adjust your policy, Garrison Insurance Group, serving Lilburn, GA, is here to help. Let’s sit down, review your goals, and ensure your coverage still aligns with your life.

Will Insurance Cover Flood Damage To My Vehicle?

Posted on July 31, 2025July 24, 2025 by admin

Disruptive weather patterns are causing catastrophic flooding in many communities across the United States. Flash flooding can lead to extensive damage to vehicles caught in floodwaters, often resulting in total loss. Your auto insurance can help defray the costs of vehicle damage caused by unexpected flooding. At Garrison Insurance Group in Lilburn, GA, we help our clients find the right insurance coverage to meet their specific needs.

Flood Damage to Vehicles

The extent of flood damage to a vehicle may not be immediately apparent. It can range from minor physical damage to the interior to severe compromise of the electrical and mechanical systems. Signs of flood damage may include stained interior carpeting, debris in the trunk or engine compartment, rust, corrosion of parts, or other indications of contact with floodwater. In some cases, the damage can be repaired, but in others, the engine and vehicle systems may be irreparable.

Auto Insurance Covers Flood Damage to Your Vehicles

Comprehensive auto insurance is a type of coverage that includes protection against flooding. If you live in a flood-prone area, it’s important to review your current policy to ensure it provides sufficient coverage for unexpected vehicle flooding. You may also want to consider adding additional coverage to your auto policy for extra protection.

Choose Garrison Insurance Group for Your Auto Insurance Coverage

Flooding and other hazards can disrupt your ability to use your vehicle for work, recreation, family events, and social activities. Our agents are here to help you find the right insurance coverage to meet your needs. Contact Garrison Insurance Group in Lilburn, GA today for a no-obligation quote on auto insurance that can help cover the costs of floodwater damage to your vehicles.

Why Your Business Needs Worker’s Compensation Insurance

Posted on June 30, 2025June 23, 2025 by admin

There are many types of commercial insurance that businesses may need, and often, several types are essential for your specific operations. If you have employees, workers’ compensation insurance is a must-have. No business with employees should ever operate without this critical coverage, even for a short period. If you don’t have workers’ compensation insurance yet, it’s time to get it. To learn more, contact us at Garrison Insurance Group in Lilburn, GA.

The Worker’s Compensation Requirement

One key reason to have workers’ compensation insurance is that it may be legally required for your business. In Georgia, any business with three or more employees is mandated by law to carry this insurance. Without it, you could face fines, fees, and other penalties. Additionally, operating without workers’ compensation insurance leaves your business vulnerable to the financial consequences of employee accidents. Even seemingly minor accidents can result in significant expenses.

While the law requires workers’ compensation insurance for businesses with three or more employees, it’s a smart decision to have it even if you only employ one person. This coverage provides essential protection for both your business and your employees.

Protection for Your Business

The costs associated with workplace accidents can be overwhelming. Beyond medical bills, there are additional expenses, including legal fees, lost wages, and potential costs for ongoing therapies. These expenses can be crippling for small businesses. Workers’ compensation insurance covers these costs, ensuring your business doesn’t have to bear the financial burden. It’s a vital safeguard for your business and a way to support your employees, who may face risks such as falls and other accidents.

Get Workers’ Compensation Insurance

If you have employees and don’t yet have workers’ compensation insurance, now is the time to secure this essential coverage to protect your business. To learn more about workers’ compensation insurance, contact us at Garrison Insurance Group in Lilburn, GA. Our team is ready to assist you.

What new homeowners should know about home insurance

Posted on May 30, 2025May 28, 2025 by admin

Purchasing a new home can be a source of anxiety. However, you don’t have to worry about having the right coverage if you rely on our team at Garrison Insurance Group in Lilburn, GA. One of the essential tasks for all new homeowners is to read their policy. The more you understand, the better equipped you are to adjust anything that doesn’t quite suit your needs.

Deductibles Apply to Many Coverage Areas

A deductible is the out-of-pocket payment you’ll need to cover before the insurance company begins coverage. It will be deducted from the amount they will pay out. The higher your deductible, the less you will pay for your policy. You determine the deductible amount that works for you.

Personal Property

The contents of your home can be covered in one of two ways. You can choose to take the current value of your items, which means you get the value of a three-year-old sofa or a four-year-old blender. Alternatively, you can opt for replacement cost, which gives you the amount you would pay today for a new sofa and a new blender.

How to Earn a Discount

If you install an alarm system in your home, you may be eligible for a discount. Bundling your policies with one carrier can also earn a substantial discount. Talk to your agent to learn more.

Not Everything is Covered

All insurance policies have exclusions, and home insurance is no exception. Floods, sinkholes, earthquakes, and owner neglect are all things that a standard home policy doesn’t cover. Read your policy to understand your exclusions.

At Garrison Insurance Group in Lilburn, GA, our independent insurance agents will be there every step of the way with the information you need. Call us today.

Will My Renters Insurance Cover My Home-Based Business?

Posted on April 30, 2025April 24, 2025 by admin

With the rise of remote work and home-based businesses, both homeowners and renters need to recognize that standard home or renters’ insurance policies do not adequately protect business-owned assets. As a renter, you have multiple options to gain coverage for your home-based business. If you live in the Lilburn, GA, area, our team at Garrison Insurance Group is ready to help you find the insurance coverage that suits both your personal and business needs.

Renter’s Insurance and Home-Based Businesses

Running a business from home or an apartment has many advantages. However, you should recognize the need for commercial insurance protection since a basic renter’s insurance policy covers only personal assets and liabilities, not your business assets.

Most renter policies provide $2,500 in business asset coverage, which you can exceed with office electronics and furniture alone. Tools, equipment, or inventory kept at home only increase the amount needing commercial protection. Those with limited business assets can add a rider to the renter’s policy to cover up to $5,000 in business assets. You will need a separate commercial insurance policy if your asset value is higher.

Also, your personal policy will not cover the liability of business associates injured while conducting business on your property. Plus, your company may need Workers’ Compensation or other commercial insurance protection, like other small businesses.

As always, discussing your situation with your insurance agent is best to tailor a package that makes sense for you.

Working with Garrison Insurance Group

Garrison Insurance Group serves the Lilburn, GA, area, and we look forward to protecting your personal and business assets. Stop in today or call (770) 985-1197 to schedule an appointment.

Planning on a Cross-Country Bike Trip? How to Upgrade Your Insurance

Posted on March 28, 2025March 26, 2025 by admin

At Garrison Insurance Group, we understand the thrill of the open road and long-distance travel for Lilburn, GA motorcycle owners. However, did you know that your policy needs to change when going on big trips? Here are a few things you should know before hitting the trail.

Motorcycle Insurance Upgrades That Make Sense for You

Tooling around your neighborhood on your bike is a lot of fun, but once you hit the long and open road, all bets are off! You never know what kind of unexpected situation might come your way, so make sure that you call us to upgrade your policy to include new protection types like:

Comprehensive: Remember that riding your bike takes you into unpredictable realms! Fire, vandalism, hail storms: comprehensive policies keep you safe from these dangers on the road.
Medical Payments: Your liability policy protects others in an accident, but what about you? Medical payment protection after a (likely) bike injury pays all your medical expenses.
Uninsured/Underinsured Drivers: What happens if you get hit by a driver with no or inadequate insurance? This protection type covers your injuries to avoid costly expenses.
Breakdown: Sure, you know how to keep your bike up and running on the road. But what if it fails and you can’t get it going? Breakdown coverage will get your motorcycle roaring!
Replacement: A nightmare scenario: your bike breaks down completely and can’t be repaired! What if we told you a replacement policy would get you a new bike and get you back on the road?

Keep Your Bike Covered

There’s no need to put yourself (or your bike) in danger on a long trip! Instead, call us at Garrison Insurance Group to upgrade your policy. After all, there’s a big world outside Lilburn, GA; upgrading your protection can minimize dangers and keep you protected and safe.

Why Every Condo Owner Should Understand Loss Assessment Coverage

Posted on February 28, 2025February 25, 2025 by admin

Owning a condo comes with plenty of advantages—less upkeep, shared amenities, and a sense of community. However, many condo owners don’t realize that their personal insurance policy may not cover every potential expense. One key type of coverage that often gets overlooked is loss assessment coverage. At Garrison Insurance Group in Lilburn, GA, we want to help condo owners understand why this coverage is so important.

What Does Loss Assessment Coverage Actually Do?

When you purchase a condo, you automatically become part of a homeowners association (HOA), which is responsible for maintaining shared spaces like hallways, lobbies, pools, and parking areas. The HOA typically carries a master insurance policy to cover damages or liability claims involving these common areas. But what happens if the HOA’s policy doesn’t cover the full cost of a major repair or lawsuit? The remaining balance is passed down to the condo owners in the form of a special assessment.

Loss assessment coverage helps pay for your share of these unexpected costs. Whether it’s damage from a fire, a severe storm, or legal liability involving a common area, this coverage ensures you’re not stuck paying a hefty bill out of pocket.

Why Condo Owners Shouldn’t Ignore This Coverage

Many condo owners assume their HOA’s policy covers everything, only to be blindsided when asked to contribute thousands of dollars toward repairs or legal settlements. Without loss assessment coverage, you could face financial strain from an expense you never saw coming.

At Garrison Insurance Group, we provide condo insurance to residents in and around Lilburn, GA, and we help condo owners find the proper protection for their needs. Contact us today to learn more about how loss assessment coverage can help safeguard your finances and your home.

Do Seniors Need Life Insurance? Here’s What You Should Consider

Posted on January 31, 2025January 28, 2025 by admin

Our financial needs and responsibilities evolve as we age, leading many seniors to question whether they need life insurance. Is life insurance still relevant when the mortgage is paid off, the kids are grown, and retirement savings are in place? For many, life insurance provides a sense of financial security and peace of mind. For others, it may no longer be a priority. Understanding the factors behind your choice to purchase or maintain your life insurance policy can help you make an informed decision.

Evaluating the Need for Life Insurance in Retirement

When evaluating your need for life insurance, consider several key factors. First, assess whether you have financial dependents, such as a spouse, children, or grandchildren, who rely on you for income or support. Life insurance could help provide for their needs if they face financial difficulties in your absence.

Next, consider any outstanding debts, including a mortgage, medical bills, or personal loans, as these obligations could burden your loved ones after your passing. Also, consider final expenses, such as funeral and burial costs. Life insurance can help cover these major expenses and reduce financial stress on your family during a difficult time.

When Life Insurance May Not Be Necessary

Life insurance may not be necessary for financially independent seniors who have no dependents relying on them for income or support. You may not need additional coverage if your children are grown and self-sufficient and your spouse or partner has adequate financial resources.

Get Coverage with Garrison Insurance Group in Lilburn, GA

Garrison Insurance Group offers term and whole life insurance policies in Lilburn, GA, and the surrounding areas. Call us today to discuss your coverage needs.

3 Reasons to Add Roadside Assistance to Your Car Insurance

Posted on December 30, 2024December 23, 2024 by admin

You never know when something like a flat tire or a dead battery will occur. While it’s often possible to address these issues on your own, having roadside assistance coverage on your car insurance policy can make it much easier and much less costly to get help when covered situations occur.

Having roadside assistance can give you peace of mind as you drive around Lilburn, GA and anywhere else throughout the United States. Besides the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you have a safety net to cover unexpected driving issues, roadside assistance also has these three important benefits:

#1: Cost Savings

The cost savings is often the top benefit of having roadside assistance. This coverage can pay for things like locksmith services, towing, and other types of roadside repairs. You won’t have to pay someone for a battery jump, lockout, or basic fuel delivery because you have these benefits attached to your roadside assistance.

#2: Convenience and Ease

Convenience and ease are also important benefits. Most roadside assistance programs have 24/7 support, so you can access help at any time of day or night by calling them or using the mobile app. You won’t have to worry about finding a service provider because that will be done for you.

#3: Support on Long Trips

Driving in unfamiliar areas can be challenging. Roadside assistance can help you with covered issues, even if you’re thousands of miles from home. However, these policies are usually limited to the United States.

The team at Garrison Insurance Group is here to help vehicle owners in Lilburn, GA find car insurance policies that suit their needs. This includes helping them with their roadside assistance coverage options.

Four Ways to Improve Your Commercial Property’s Exterior

Posted on November 26, 2024November 25, 2024 by admin

As a business owner, it’s vital that you ensure your property looks great and represents your company to the best of its abilities. After all, it is the first image they see when they pull up to the property. If you want to improve your commercial property’s exterior, there are four ways you can make it look better and safer for your visitors.

1. Resurface Your Parking Lot

If you recently inherited an older commercial space, chances are you also inherited an old parking lot. If this parking lot has potholes, faded lines, and faded asphalt, it’s time to have it resurfaced with a fresh new look. This shows that you want to invest in your company and make sure all areas are outlined for safety reasons.

2. Paint The Building

Older commercial buildings are usually overdue for a good paint job, so give yourself some time and a few gallons of paint to put a fresh look on the building. A fresh paint job will attract customers driving or walking by, and they’ll see that a new business is in the area.

3. Add Lighting

If you don’t have lights in your parking lots or walkways, ensure they are added as soon as possible. This keeps the area well-lit when it’s dark and when the weather isn’t ideal. Even in poor weather conditions, your exterior will give a warming and welcoming presence, improving the overall appearance.

4. Change The Landscaping

If your landscaping looks like every other business, get creative and do something that allows your business to stand out from others. Using trees and shrubs that are different sizes will attract attention, as well as plants with bright and bold flowers that bloom.

If you are a business owner in or around Lilburn, GA, contact our team at Garrison Insurance Group for a quote on your commercial insurance policy.

Garrison Insurance Group

Insurance Blog

Get a Quote

Start your free quote now!