Are you properly insured?

The excitement of the holidays is upon us. I don't want to take away from that feeling, but do want to point out that this is the time everyone must consider if they are properly insured. Will you be giving or receiving high-end electronics? What about a special piece of jewelry? Maybe a piece of fine art? Do you own a collection ... of anything?

Check to determine the limits that your policy stipulates. There are quite a few items that limit what the insurance company will pay out unless you purchase a rider. Some of these limits, and the common ranges are:

- Jewelry: $1000-$3000
- Guns: $1000-$3000
- Silverware: $1000-$3000
- Business Personal Property: $1000-$2500
- Sports/Stamp/Coin Collections: $1000-$2500
- Money (cash): $200-$500

The cost of additional insurance to provide adequate coverage is minimal compared to your potential loss. And if you haven’t experienced a disaster after years of paying premiums, you can be thankful for your good fortune. The value of peace of mind cannot have a dollar sign attached to it.

Enjoy the holidays, appreciate what you own, and make sure you're sufficiently covered for all the items you now have, and those that you'll soon be unwrapping.