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Why Employee Benefits Benchmarks Matter

It’s a competitive world. In today’s marketplace, you must offer more than a good salary to attract the employees you want on your team. That’s where employee benefit benchmarks come in.

What is an Employee Benefit Benchmark?

A “benchmark” is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as:

“A standard or point of reference against which things may be compared or assessed.”

In employee benefits, a benchmark refers to comparing your business’s benefits packages with your competition and the industry at large. There is not one set measurement per industry but a host of metrics that, together, paint a picture of the companies that provide the most competitive benefits. 

Internal Benchmarking

Your company already offers group benefits. Do you know which ones employees appreciate the most? Do you have data on which benefits are most appreciated by your team and which benefits are less popular? This information can help you make the right choices and establish the best group benefits. 

External Benchmarking

External benchmarking requires evaluating the benefits offered by other companies in your industry. What types of benefits do they offer? Are they attracting the talent you’d like on your team due to the benefits packages they offer?

How Do I Determine Employee Benefit Benchmarks for My Company?

To review your existing benefits in internal benchmarking, perform staff surveys and evaluate the data regarding your employees and how they use the benefits your company provides. Staff surveys on a sizable sample of employees provide the data you need. For in-depth understanding, include questions that ask employees to elaborate on their responses. Reviewing your records to see what benefits your employees use the most is a revealing exercise. External benchmarking requires research into the benefit packages your competition offers and evaluating the standard benefits offered to employees in your specific industry. 

If I Know the Benefit Benchmarks for My Industry, How Do I Use Them?

Once you know where you stand, you can use internal benchmarks to enhance your employee benefits package. If your research shows employees use the group dental insurance most often, it can be worthwhile to enhance those benefits by choosing a better plan. If you discover that very few of your team take advantage of a free gym membership, it is probably safe to cut this benefit and invest in what your employees feel they need. Some of the most valued employee benefits include: 

  • Group life insurance
  • Group vision insurance
  • Group health insurance
  • Group disability insurance
  • Group pension insurance

External benchmarks can incentivize the best talent, as they recognize that your company values its employees. This signals that your business has a supportive culture, a vital consideration for new candidates. 

How Often Should I Assess Employee Benefit Benchmarks?

Performing one employee benchmark review is insufficient, as the data changes with time. As employee needs change, your benefits package can be updated. By operating a continuous feedback loop through your HR department, you can respond to emerging trends. Your benefits package should be reevaluated every year based on the data you learn throughout the year.

Give the Best Benefits, Get the Best Talent

Is your employee benefits package looking less appealing than the competitors? Great benefits attract the stars in the industry and can help you avoid losing your best team members. Let us help you find the group benefits insurance that fits your organization’s needs. Contact one of our local agents to review your existing benefits package and advise you regarding newer programs on the market that offer more.

February 2025 | Issue 02

When it comes to insurance, the best policy is one that provides the right protection for you and your family — right now. That means as your…

What is an HSA, and Is It Right for Me?

You have options when it comes to managing your health insurance. Many services are offered free of charge. An HSA or health savings account is not insurance but can be a viable option for covering health costs. 

What is an HSA?

An HSA is a personal savings account for specified healthcare costs. The account allows you to set aside funds and withdraw from the account without paying taxes when the funds are used for medical expenses. An HSA complements your health insurance by covering the cost of copayments and deductibles. 

What Does an HSA Cover?

You can use money from your HSA to cover:

  • Prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines
  • Eyeglasses and vision care
  • Dental care
  • Chiropractic care
  • Acupuncture
  • Lab tests
  • X-rays
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • First-aid supplies
  • Out-of-pocket costs to meet insurance deductibles

What Tax Benefits Does an HSA Offer?

There are three main ways an HSA can offer tax benefits: 

  • Contributions: Money you place in an HSA can be claimed as a deductible on your tax return. 
  • Growth: Money contributed to your HSA can earn interest. 
  • Withdrawals: You do not have to pay tax on funds you use to pay for qualifying expenses.

Is An HSA Available to Individuals with All Types of Insurance?

No. An HSA is only available to individuals with High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs). An HDHP is a type of health insurance that offers lower monthly premiums in exchange for a higher deductible. 

HDHPs are typically a good option for those who expect few medical expenses, are generally healthy, and want to save on monthly premiums. If you have a lot of medical costs, an HDHP may not be the best choice. 

Where Can I Sign Up For an HSA?

Health savings accounts are available through:

  • Banks
  • Credit Unions
  • Investment firms
  • Your employer

Before opening an HSA, you must enroll in an HDHP. If you have questions about whether your insurance qualifies as an HDHP, our health insurance agents can help. Call today.

When Might an HSA Not Be Right for Me?

While an HSA can offer tax advantages, it may not be for everyone. You may not want to open an HSA if:

  • You expect to have a lot of medical expenses. 
  • You prefer a lower deductible health plan. 
  • You have other financial priorities. 
  • You plan to enroll in Medicare soon. 

After enrolling in Medicare, you can no longer contribute to an HSA. 

Your HSA Is Yours to Keep 

Unlike health insurance plans, which do not provide coverage after you cease premium payments, a health savings account is always yours to keep. Like a personal bank account, the contributions to your HSA will remain with you even if you change your insurance, switch employers, or stop making contributions. They can always be used later to cover your medical needs, including after you retire or enroll in Medicare.

Protect Your Health and Future with the Right Plan

Whether you are considering opening an HSA or not, enrolling in a health plan that suits your needs is vital. Contact our firm today to schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable health insurance agents. Let us help set you on the path to a healthier future. 

Do I Have Enough Life Insurance? 6 Signs to Know if You’re Underinsured

If you are uncertain if you have enough life insurance, it is time to review your existing policy or, for some people, put a new policy in place. Life insurance is dynamic and needs to change with time. As you hit significant milestones, your insurance must match the changes. Here are some signs that you are underinsured. 

You Never Calculated How Much You Need

While you may not have realized it then, you may have purchased your existing policy off face value. Maybe the death benefit seemed adequate, but did you ever calculate how much coverage you need in real-world numbers? If not, here’s a guide on how to count it up. First, list the following expenses:

  • Your debts
  • Your mortgage
  • Several years of living expenses for your surviving family
  • College costs for children
  • Other major expenses, like a wedding for a child
  • Medical bills
  • Cost of funeral and other death expenses

This calculation will allow your surviving family to continue living comfortably after your passing. During such an emotional transition, added financial stress can weigh heavily on your loved ones. 

Your Annual Salary Has Increased

If you purchased insurance in your younger years when salaries were lower, you are likely now making many times what you did then. This is a clear sign you’ve outgrown your last policy. If your household expenses have expanded and reflect your higher income, your policy should be updated to match the current situation. 

Your Family Has Grown

Adopting a child or welcoming a newborn to the family is one of life’s most rewarding events. It is also a sign your life insurance policy must be updated. You’ll want to ensure that this new family member is correctly named as a beneficiary to help secure their future well-being should a parent or parents pass away.

You Bought a New Home

Purchasing a new home is a thrilling milestone. With it comes all the joys, risks, and costs of owning a home. Ensure your existing policy covers paying off your mortgage; if not, it’s time for an update. 

Your Spouse is Uninsured

If you are the only one employed in your household, you may need life insurance for your partner who stays home. If your partner provides essential contributions, like childcare, cleaning, cooking, gardening, maintenance, and other household functions, their absence could leave you needing thousands of dollars to cover the cost of these actions, with nowhere to turn. A life insurance policy will provide the means to care for dependents in a worst-case scenario.

Are You Underinsured? We Can Help.

If you’re in one of the above categories, don’t wait to ensure you have enough life insurance to support your family when they need it most. Our life insurance agents are available to help you make a decision that suits your budget and your family. Call today to schedule a consultation to ensure you get the right coverage for your needs. 

Medicare & Heart Disease: What is Covered

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. It accounts for over 600,000 deaths annually and affects both men and women across all racial and ethnic groups. It also primarily affects older adults. Here’s what you need to know about heart disease coverage if you have Medicare.

What is Heart Disease? 

Heart disease is a broad term encompassing a range of heart conditions. These include:

  • Heart valve malfunctions
  • Irregular heartbeats, called arrhythmias
  • Congenital heart defects
  • Blood vessel disease near or in the heart
  • Heart muscle disease

What Heart Disease Treatment Does Medicare Cover?

The amount of coverage you have, including treatment for heart disease, depends on the type of Medicare you have enrolled in. If you are enrolled in Medicare Part A, you are covered only for emergencies. You will need Medicare Part B to participate in preventative actions like cardiovascular risk reduction treatments.

  • Medicare Part A (hospital insurance): This plan does not cover preventative actions or screenings. However, it can help cover expenses if you have an emergency, such as a heart attack, or need surgery, such as a coronary artery bypass. 
  • Medicare Part B (medical insurance): Part B covers outpatient services like visits to a cardiologist or blood tests to check cholesterol levels. However, you may still be required to pay your deductible for these services. 
  • Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage): Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private providers approved by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). They can be adapted to your needs. If you have heart disease, you can ensure services of interest to you are included in your plan. 
  • Medicare Part D (drug coverage): Heart medications are covered under Medicare Part D if you need prescription medication to manage a heart condition. 

Medicare Advantage Can Also Help Fill Your Prescription

Medicare Advantage, or Medicare Part C, can also provide prescription drug coverage to manage heart conditions such as high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). This is not automatically included in a Part C plan but should be requested when you enroll. 

How Can I Prevent Heart Disease Using Medicare Resources?

Medicare Part B covers preventative services:

  • Diabetes screenings: Diabetes is closely linked to heart disease.
  • Smoking cessation counseling: Quitting smoking can cut the risk of heart attack and stroke in half within a year. 
  • Obesity counseling: Maintaining a healthy weight can keep your heart healthy, too. 
  • Cardiovascular disease screenings: As a preventative measure, all Medicare Part B patients can receive a heart disease screening every five years. 

What Heart Disease Items Are Not Covered by Medicare?

Virtually any type of treatment for heart disease, preventative or remedial, is covered in whole or part by some portion of Medicare. The question is, do you have the coverage you need to receive the proper treatment? Contact our office today to find out what your Medicare plan covers and how you can improve your coverage to include more treatment options. One of our Medicare insurance agents will be glad to assist you. 

What is a Loss Control Program, And Do I Need One?

A loss control program is a coordinated set of actions or practices that help locate and address potential risks for a business. The program could evaluate losses from employee theft, financial difficulties from claims or lawsuits, and other risks. A tailored loss control program reduces risk and mitigates the extent of economic losses when unexpected incidents occur. 

How Do I Know If I Need a Loss Control Program?

Most businesses can benefit from a loss control program. The first step is to review your business’s risks. You have risks unique to your enterprise, along with a range of standard risks. Some common potential losses that many companies share include:

  • Product theft
  • Damaged inventory
  • Workplace injuries
  • Property damage
  • Online security threats
  • Client claims

Developing a Plan

Set clear targets to reduce the risk of potential loss in each area. Speaking to a business insurance agent at our firm can help. We can help walk you through your business insurance options and what policies offer. Your loss control program should list the actions to take, deadlines for completion, and the individual responsible. Vague or unclear targets rarely get completed—be specific.

Most businesses find that having a safety manual for employees is a practical part of a loss prevention program. Educating your staff makes them more likely to respond to emergencies correctly and confidently.

Getting Your Plan into Action

Take the targets from your planning papers to the physical universe. Have the assigned executives complete their tasks such as:

  • Employee safety manual: Have the safety manual written, printed, distributed, and read by all employees. 
  • Security cameras: Get cameras installed if needed, and place clear signage about video surveillance as a deterrent. 
  • Anti-theft tags: If you work in retail, implement RFID tags. 
  • Inventory monitoring: Perform regular inventory reviews to ensure your products are safe from employee theft.
  • First aid stations: Be prepared in case of an accident. Purchase a quality first aid kit, or several if you have larger premises. Place first aid kits in easily accessible locations. Ensure your employees are informed where first aid supplies are available should an unexpected injury accident occur.

Monitoring Your Results

Without feedback, ensuring your efforts are working is challenging. Close the loop by asking staff and customers to share their thoughts. Do they feel more secure? Do they understand what actions to take to help avoid unnecessary risks? Regular safety training ensures your employees know what to do in case of fire, an injury, or any incident requiring immediate intervention.

Improve Your Loss Control Program

A loss control program will be outdated over time. As your business expands and changes, so do its needs. Business insurance covers many aspects of your business and can act as a safety net, ensuring your business can flourish. Some insurance providers may reward company owners who have implemented a loss control program by offering lower premiums. 

Business Insurance Gives Peace of Mind

Loss control programs can go a long way to keeping your products, clients, and personnel safe from harm, but they can also protect your enterprise from unexpected financial losses. Speak with one of our business insurance agents today to have your current policy reviewed and learn if new options on the market could better serve your operation. You have worked hard to build your business; your business insurance policy safeguards against losses you can’t afford.

5 Winter Driving Mistakes That May Increase Your Premium

Yesterday was Car Insurance Day. The first of February has been set aside as the annual day to be thankful for the peace of mind your auto insurance provides—and to focus on the importance of safe driving. As we face the last several weeks of winter, it is the perfect time for an insurance policy review to check that your policy still meets your needs. Safe driving is the best strategy to keep your premiums as low as possible. 

Not Clearing All the Snow Off Your Vehicle

While you may be tempted to quickly sweep the snow off the windshield when you are in a hurry to get somewhere, failing to clear the snow from the top or front of your car can have disastrous consequences. Sudden stops, starts, or turns can result in snow from your roof sliding down and covering your front or back window or the snow on the hood of your car sliding upwards, dangerously obscuring your view.

Staying Bundled Up While Driving

Brr—it’s cold outside! You need to wear layers when you are outdoors and need to stay warm. While you need warm clothing outside, wearing mittens and a thick coat in the driver’s seat can be a liability, reducing your ability to grip the wheel and control the car. Bulky snow boots can make it hard to feel the pedal position and wide boots can make pressing one pedal at a time difficult. Leave your bulky winter clothes in the back seat and use the car’s heating system to stay warm when driving. 

Driving Too Fast for Weather Conditions

The posted speed limit is the maximum speed under normal conditions. Remember that snow, ice, and other winter weather hazards can add minutes, if not hours, to your travel time. Always head out with time to spare. Fast driving in snowy, icy, or rainy conditions or exceeding the speed limit in winter conditions puts you and others at risk should the vehicle go out of control. If you cause a crash by driving unsafely in winter weather conditions, it signals to your policy provider that you are a higher-risk driver; your insurance premium will increase.

Following Too Closely on Slippery Roads

Tailgating and following another car too closely is always illegal. When the roads are icy, braking requires even more distance. Tailgating is more than unpleasant to your fellow drivers; it is dangerous driving behavior that can lead to a fender-bender or worse. In good weather, the rule is to leave three seconds of roadway space between you and the vehicle ahead. In winter road conditions, coming to a complete stop takes even longer. You will need five to eight seconds to stop on snowy roads and 10 to 14 seconds on ice. Adjust your driving, leaving a longer distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. Stay safe and keep your insurance rates lower.

Lack of Vehicle Winter Maintenance Check

When the cold hits, it is time to get your car’s tires, brakes, and wipers checked for damage and replaced if needed. It’s much better to fix problems ahead of time than to discover them when navigating through a howling storm. Regular car maintenance can extend the life of your vehicle and improve its performance in rough weather.

Stay Safe This Winter with Car Insurance You Can Trust

No one can predict every hazard, but it pays to be prepared. Now is the time of year to review your insurance and ensure coverage. Talk with one of our agents today to see what new policies are available with better coverage at a lower cost. We are happy to review your current policy and help you have greater peace of mind, knowing you have the coverage you need.

6 Common Business Insurance Questions: New Businesses and Startups

As an entrepreneur, you’ve got a lot on your plate. Building your business plan. Securing funding. Setting sales goals. Finding new customers. Keeping track of your finances… The list goes on and on.

With so much to get done, chances are buying a business insurance policy isn’t high on your list. To make matters worse, it’s a common misconception that insuring your business isn’t really necessary when you’re just starting out.

But the truth is, every business needs insurance – even startups. It’s a simple step you can take to protect the company you’re working so hard to build. And it can cost less than you may think.

Let’s talk about protecting your business. Get a free quote from a local agent.

Request a Quote

To help you understand why business insurance is so important, here are answers to some of the most common questions about insuring a new business or startup.

Why Do I Need Business Insurance?

Like any type of insurance policy, business insurance is designed to help protect you against risk. And there’s no shortage of risks that businesses face – especially new businesses and startups. If you open a physical office or location, someone could file a lawsuit after getting injured on your property. If a client is unhappy with your work, they could sue you for negligence. Your product inventory could get damaged or stolen. Without the proper insurance coverage, your business would be on the hook for all of these unexpected expenses. And if you’re just starting out, that added cost could put you out of business entirely.

When Should I Buy Insurance for My New Business?

When your business is still in the early planning phases, there’s probably not much that needs protecting. But as your startup dreams turn into reality and you make your first sale, it’s wise to look into a business insurance policy. Business insurance can help protect against everything from property damage to liability claims from customers and employees. So, buying a policy early in the life of your business will offer the best protection from the start. Speaking of employees, as soon as you hire your first employee you’ll be legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance helps cover medical care and lost wages for an employee who is hurt at work.

Do I Need Business Insurance for a Home-Based Business?

If your business is starting out in your basement, home office or garage, you may think that business insurance is unnecessary. But just because you’re working out of your home doesn’t mean you’ll be covered by your homeowners insurance. Most homeowners and renters policies only go so far and aren’t designed to cover things like destroyed business inventory or customer injuries. For example, if you’re a photographer and your high-end camera equipment is damaged by a water leak, your homeowners coverage might be limited to $500 or $1,000 for equipment used exclusively for a business. And if a client trips down the stairs to your basement office, your homeowners policy wouldn’t cover a premises liability claim because they are a business client. Business insurance, however, would protect you in both these instances – and more.

What Type of Business Insurance do I Need?

The type of insurance you need for your startup will largely depend on the specific business or industry you’re in. That’s why Erie Insurance offers business insurance packages that are tailored to your specific industry. But generally, you may want to consider:

  • Commercial auto insurance: Whether you rely on a single car or a large fleet of vehicles, commercial auto insurance is something many businesses need. This coverage can protect your business against claims for bodily injury and property damage caused by a covered accident arising out of the use of a company vehicle.
  • Commercial property insurance: Commercial property insurance helps protect the building or physical location you work in, whether it’s owned with property coverage or leased with liability coverage for damage that’s your fault. It could also replace damaged or stolen assets like equipment and product inventory. Some policies, like business interruption coverage, can even help recover any income you lost while your doors were closed due to a covered loss.
  • General liability insurance: While specific liabilities may vary from business to business, a general liability policy protects you against covered claims alleging bodily injury or property damage.
  • Employment Practices Liability (EPL): Legal issues stemming from alleged discrimination, wrongful termination and harassment are growing concerns for today’s small business owner. With EPL coverage from ERIE, you can choose the protection that best fits your needs to help cover the costs of a lawsuit – even if the charges aren’t true.
  • Cyber Suite: Protection for cyber incidents isn’t just for large businesses. With Cyber Suite1 from ERIE, you’ll be prepared to respond to a wide range of cyber incidents including breaches of personally identifying or sensitive information and threats that could jeopardize the safety of that information.
  • Workers’ compensation insurance: Often referred to as workers’ comp, this policy is legally required in most states if you hire employees. It helps cover medical care and lost wages for an employee who is hurt at work and cannot return (not available in Ohio).
  • Business umbrella policy: No matter how careful you or your employees are, mistakes and accidents, unfortunately, do happen. That’s why many business owners make the smart decision to protect themselves with extra business liability insurance. ERIE’s business umbrella is an additional layer of coverage that gives you extra protection and peace of mind above and beyond your commercial general liability, professional liability, business auto liability and employers liability insurance. (Check with your local ERIE agent about any sublimits that might apply.)

How do I Determine How Much Insurance Coverage I Need?

After figuring out what type of insurance you need, the next step is to decide how much coverage is enough to protect your growing business. Generally speaking, your coverage limits should match the level of risk your business will be exposed to. But that’s a difficult thing to figure out on your own. Fortunately, you can get customized advice from an ERIE agent in your neighborhood. As a member of your community, your local ERIE agent is uniquely positioned to understand the insurance needs of your business. They also know the risks associated with where you live, such as the local costs of construction and common claims.

How Can I Save Money on My Insurance Coverage?

Nearly every startup has one thing in common: money is tight. As a small business owner themselves, your local independent ERIE agent can help you find the right balance between price and protection. This process helps ensure that your policy provides all the coverage you need at a cost you can afford. Your ERIE agent can even help you take action to reduce risks in the first place with access to a risk control consultant. They’re a free resource to help you evaluate the potential risks your business faces and then recommend measures you can take to help reduce those risks – and potentially lower your premiums in the process.

Be Ready for Anything

The life of an entrepreneur is unpredictable. Every day brings new opportunities – and new challenges. No matter what comes your way, you can always count on Erie Insurance and our agents to help protect the business that means so much to you. To learn more about business insurance from ERIE, contact a local agent today.

1Cyber Suite is only available to Customers with an ErieSecure Business® policy. Cyber Suite coverage and associated services reinsured under an arrangement with the Hartford Steam Boiler (Home Office: Hartford, Connecticut). © 2021 The Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Company (“HSB”). All rights reserved. This document is intended for informational purposes only and does not modify or invalidate any of the terms or conditions of the policy and endorsements. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the coverage form. Coverage not available in New York.

Original article published by Justin Metz on November 22, 2023

What’s a Coverage Review (and Why Do I Need One) — Let’s Get Brewing

When it comes to insurance, the best policy is one that provides the right protection for you and your family — right now. That means as your life changes, your insurance coverage should, too.

In an ideal world, you’d call your insurance agent every time you finished a home renovation, bought a new vehicle or got a new job. But life is busy. And with all the responsibilities of work and family, evaluating your autohome or life insurance coverage may fall pretty low on your priority list.

That’s why it’s helpful to have an insurance agent. Your agent can keep an eye on your policies and reach out to connect to make sure they’re still the right fit.

So, if your agent calls (or texts or emails) and offers to review your coverage, here’s what you can expect. Or if you’re ready to review your policies you can download our free PDF printable checklist on what to tell your agent and what information to have handy.

What is a Coverage Review?

A coverage review is a general check-in with your insurance agent. During the review, you’ll meet with your ERIE agent and share any life changes that could affect your insurance needs. This information will be used to update your current policies and recommend additional coverages you may want to consider.

A coverage review is a good opportunity to ask questions and understand what your policies can (and can’t) cover. Your ERIE agent can also share real-life claims examples they’ve seen in your local area to help you avoid potentially costly coverage gaps.

Your agent may schedule an in-person meeting or ask you to provide information over the phone or email — whatever works best for you.

Of course, you don’t need to wait for your agent to schedule a coverage review. You can also request one yourself! Just call, email or text your agent to get in touch.

What Information Will My Agent Ask for During a Coverage Review?

During a coverage review, your agent will want to know about any life changes since you last connected. This may include:

  • Personal information: Make sure your agent has current information for you and your family. This includes your mailing address, phone number, email address and all the members of your household. Be sure to let them know of any name changes due to marriage or divorce, or if you’ve had a child since you last spoke — this may lead to a change in your policy beneficiaries. Having the correct information on file ensures there aren’t any delays in the event of a claim.
  • Covered drivers: When updating your auto insurance, your agent will need to know if there are any changes to the drivers covered under your policy. This could be a child that’s about to get their driver’s license or someone who’s living with you and regularly using your vehicle (Related: Am I Covered When I Lend My Car to Friends or Family?). If you’re considering a new vehicle, your agent can also provide a free quote.
  • Home updates: Have you upgraded your kitchen, transformed your bonus room or finished your basement? Major improvements like these increase the value of your home, which means you may need a higher limit on your homeowners policy. Without changing your limits, you may be left with a coverage gap t hat could leave you underinsured if you need torepair or rebuild your home if the unexpected happens. Ask your agent how guaranteed replacement cost can provide peace of mind.
  • New purchases: If you’ve bought any new “toys” — like a boatall-terrain vehicle (ATV) or golf cart— you may want a separate insurance policy. While insurance might not be required for watercraft and off-road vehicles, they still represent a significant investment that should be protected. The same holds true with valuables such as musical instruments or jewelry. Sending a copy of your updated home inventory to your agent will help them determine if you need to purchase personal valuables insurance.
  • Job changes: Let your agent know if there have been any changes with your employment. For example, if you’ve retired or are now working from home, the miles you save on your daily commute may result in a lower auto insurance rate. And if you recently earned a promotion, it may be time to review your life insurance policy to ensure you’ve got enough coverage — beyond what may be offered by your employer.

Can My Agent Help Lower My Insurance Bill?

Everyone likes saving money, right? Talk to your ERIE agent – they’ll work with you to ensure you’re getting the best price possible for the coverage you need.

Read more about available insurance discounts from ERIE or check out this list of ways you can save:

  • Safe driving discount: If you’re a safe driver with a good driving record, you could get a discount on your auto coverage. And in select states, ERIE’s free driving safety app, YourTurn® can help you earn rewards for safe driving*. With YourTurn®, drivers measure criteria like speeding, braking and phone usage to become more aware of their driving habits. As an added perk, you’ll earn a gift card for safe driving (up to $5 or $10 every two weeks). Learn more about YourTurn®.
  • Car safety equipment discounts: You can save on your insurance coverage if your car is equipped with safety equipment like factory-installed air bags, passive restraint2, anti-theft devices3 and anti-lock brakes.
  • Multi-car discount: If ERIE insures two or more of your vehicles, you could qualify for a discount. (All the vehicles in your household must be owned and used by the drivers we insure on the policy.)
  • Multi-policy discount: A discount is available if you have a qualifying life insurance policy1 or home policy in addition to your ERIE auto insurance.
  • Reduced usage discount: If you’re not using your car for at least 90 consecutive days during the policy period, you could be eligible for a discount on your car insurance2.
  • Young drivers: Unmarried drivers under age 21 who reside with their parents may be eligible for additional savings on their car insurance3.
  • Annual payment plan: You can save by paying your auto premium annually.
  • Changing your deductible: Generally, you can lower your insurance premium by raising your deductible. But if you’d prefer to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a claim, our diminishing deductible is available for about $30 more per year with the Erie Auto Plus4 endorsement. Your deductible diminishes for every year you do not have a claim.

Get Customized Advice from an Insurance Expert

At ERIE, we know every customer’s circumstance is different. That’s why we never work from a one-size-fits-all formula. Your ERIE agent will listen to you carefully and offer tailor-made solutions for your situation and your budget. Best of all — you’ll get outstanding coverage, great rates and service from local people who care. To learn more, contact your local ERIE agent or start a free online auto quote.

*YourTurn not available in all states. As of 03/2023, it’s not available to customers in KY, NC, NY and DC.

Ages 16-23 can earn rewards up to $10 every two weeks, ages 24+ can earn rewards up to $5 every two weeks. Rewards are based on the participating driver’s score during the scoring period while driving 50 tracked miles. Indiana participants can earn up to $5 every two weeks. Rewards are distributed through the YourTurn app via electronic gift cards.

Driving improvement statistics provided by Cambridge Mobile Telematics.

The YourTurn app requires participants to be a licensed driver on the ERIE auto policy and have a valid email address, smartphone number and data plan to download and activate the YourTurn app. Users must agree to the Terms and Conditions of the YourTurn® app.

1All discounts are subject to eligibility criteria and applicable rates and rules at the time of purchase. Actual savings vary. Life multi-policy discount is not available in conjunction with auto policies already taking advantage of ERIE Rate Lock®. Erie Family Life insurance products are not available in New York. For additional information, contact your local ERIE agent.
2Not available in Kentucky
3Not available in North Carolina
4Diminishing deductible up to a maximum reduction of $500. In New York, comprehensive deductible cannot be reduced to less than $50 and collision deductible cannot be reduced to less than $100.

Original article published, by Justin Metz on January 15, 2024