Blog
Welcome to the Gary Wagner Insurance Blog!
What’s on our mind? You can read about it in our blog. Whether it’s ideas from the industry or emerging trends, you can read about it here. And once in a while, we may throw in a movie review or some other surprise. So keep checking in. We’re glad to have you reading along.
Neighboring: Ways to Connect with Your Local Community
It’s easy to feel connected to the world around us nowadays. We have our fingers on the pulse of events the moment they happen, can see what our friends and role models are doing daily, and can even stay in touch with people all over...
Read MoreCatching Scams and Fake News
We are blasted with content every day. From emails to news articles to social media posts, our eyes scan dozens to hundreds of carefully crafted words and images that are made to make you take notice.But how do we determine which...
Read More
Tips for Unexpected Winter Weather
If you’re like many Americans, you’ve been hit by a hefty dose of winter recently.Even if you aren’t used to snowstorms, heavy rains, or bitterly cold temperatures, you should keep a few things in mind to either limit your chances of...
Read More3 Tips to Start the New Year Strong
A new year doesn’t need a dramatic reset to be a good one. Often, the strongest starts come from a few thoughtful moves that set the tone early and quietly pay off all year long.It doesn’t take a resolution or an artificial deadline to...
Read More
Honoring Veterans Day
This Veterans Day, I hope you’ll join me in remembering and thanking our brave Veterans.
Read MoreShow All
Halloween Safety Reminders
Halloween is unlike any other holiday. It’s a time to indulge the kid in all of us or the kid in front of us. It’s a time to enjoy the silly, the scary, and, of course, the candy. But it is also a time when carelessness, excitement,...
Read More
Happy Labor Day!
The first Labor Day was celebrated over 100 years ago, created by the labor movement as a day to honor the achievements and contributions (both social and economic) of American workers. I’ve always found the way we celebrate to be...
Read MoreCyber Security Tips
We’ve all experienced it. An email arrives from a company you seem to know and trust but has an attached file from an unknown email address. Your gut tells you something may be wrong— and it's right. Phishing emails like this are just...
Read MoreWhat To Do in a Flood
We talk a lot about preparation in our emails: preparing for a storm, a disaster, weather events, or any of the other kinds of risks that you may face. But we do not often talk about what to do if you meet one of those risks up close...
Read More
Happy Independence Day
Happy 4th of July! Whether you’re celebrating with a cookout, a family gathering, or watching the fireworks with friends, Independence Day reminds us how lucky we all are to belong to this great nation. Enjoy the long weekend and join...
Read MoreDo New Solo and Small Businesses Need Insurance?
Starting and owning a business is a part of the American dream. Using your brains, grit, and a little luck to make something out of nothing is a challenge that is celebrated and, hopefully, rewarded. But when you’re starting out, the...
Read More
This Memorial Day...
Memorial Day is a time for Americans to honor and remember those who lost their lives while serving in the armed forces. Veterans will think back on the men and women who served alongside them who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their...
Read More
Happy Mother's Day
A special day for moms everywhere arrives in May
Read MoreDo Tariffs Affect Insurance?
Most of us have heard the buzzword “tariff” lately. Whether the word is something you look up online or keeps you up at night, tariffs are the biggest thing in financial and economic news. But do they affect insurance? The answer...
Read MoreVandalism happens. Here’s how it’s covered.
That’s why vandalism, or someone purposefully damaging your property, can make your blood boil. Vandalism includes damage like:
Read MoreLeap Safely Into Spring Break
Ah, Spring Break. For some, it represents fond memories and inspires us to take a weekend to relax. For others, it is a time to figure out what to do with the kids. And for the lucky few, it’s a time to ditch the winter jacket and...
Read MoreDisaster Deja Vu: Common Questions Answered
As insurance agents, we often help people at the best times: when buying a new house, a new car, or even welcoming new family members. It's a joy and privilege we don't take for granted. But we also have to help people when times are...
Read MoreBright Ideas: Insuring Solar Panels
I know what you’re thinking. “Finally, an email on solar panels!” Okay, maybe not. But with the new Inflation Reduction Act now signed into law, many people will find solar panels a more affordable option for their homes. In fact,...
Read MoreLeap Safely Into Spring Break
Ah, Spring Break. For some, it represents fond memories and inspires us to take a weekend to relax. For others, it is a time to figure out what to do with the kids. And for the lucky few, it’s a time to ditch the winter jacket and...
Read MoreCatching Scams and Fake News
We are blasted with content every day. From emails to news articles to social media posts, our eyes scan dozens to hundreds of carefully crafted words and images that are made to make you take notice. But how do we determine which...
Read MoreBack to School Auto Tips
Love it or loathe it, school is back (or almost) for most of us. Some are returning to the same old route, while others are scrambling to adapt to a new schedule. One of the most apparent effects of schools being open is something we...
Read More
Happy Labor Day!
A holiday with a nice long weekend attached is coming up – Labor Day. This weekend represents the unofficial end of summer as well as a chance to relax, get away, get your mind off work, and enjoy the comforts of home or a great...
Read MoreCatching Scams and Fake News
We are blasted with content every day. From emails to news articles to social media posts, our eyes scan dozens to hundreds of carefully crafted words and images that are made to make you take notice. But how do we determine which...
Read MoreTips for the Next Heat Wave
Large parts of the country just suffered through a brutal heat wave. Record highs hung around and turned the great outdoors into the no-so-great outside. In fact, you may still be sweating through dangerously high heat right now. And...
Read MoreWishing You a Happy Father’s Day
Let’s hear it for the dads, the ones who help us grow, give us guidance, and look out for us in a million different ways. In celebration of Father’s Day, here are some of the ways you can honor the father-figures in your life: Tell...
Read More
This Memorial Day...
Memorial Day is a time for Americans to honor and remember those who lost their lives while serving in the armed forces. Veterans will think back on the men and women who served alongside them who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their...
Read MoreCyber Security Tips
We’ve all experienced it. An email arrives from a company you seem to know and trust but has an attached file from an unknown email address. Your gut tells you something may be wrong— and it's right. Phishing emails like this are just...
Read MoreDon’t Let Black Friday Become Blue Monday
The turkey leftovers are in the fridge, the cranberry sauce that no one ate is jiggling in a container, and some of your family members are still stuffed from the day before. But you? You’re either waiting in the cold and dark...
Read MoreSocial Security COLA and Medicare Part B Premiums
The Social Security Administration recently announced that over 71 million Americans, including Social Security and Supplemental Security Income beneficiaries, will receive a 3.2% increase in their benefits for 2024.1 However, it is...
Read MoreCyber Safety Tip: Update
We’ve all been there. You’re scrolling through your phone, computer, or tablet, and a notification pops up. “Update Me!” While that isn’t the exact wording, the meaning is the same. Something wants to be...
Read MoreHome prices are not home values
The moves made by the Fed have poured icy water on the once scalding housing market, freezing prices or in some cases even lowering them.So that means your home is insured for the right amount and you can stop worrying, right?Sadly, no...
Read MoreStormy factors could lead to Homeowners' rate increases.
No one likes for insurance rates to go up. But a perfect storm of factors could be driving up rates for homeowners' customers across the country, especially in the Southeast.A combination of high population growth, fluctuating cost of...
Read MoreAir Travel Safety Tips 2.0
It is that time of year when everyone keeps an eye on their calendars.Whether it's the beach, the mountains, or a magical urban retreat, your long-awaited vacation is around the corner.If you're a seasoned traveler, you already know...
Read MoreHow to Avoid Common Summer Insurance Claims
Ah, Summer. A time for fun, relaxation… and risk! As you enjoy the balmy weather and outdoor activities, make sure to take some simple steps to keep your sweet summer from going sour.Here are some tips for mitigating risk this...
Read MoreBudgeting for Surprises: Summer Travel Tips
Now that summer is in full swing, it's the perfect time to take a trip. But sometimes, even your best-laid plans go a little off-kilter.Here are a few of the most common travel issues and how to make sure that no matter what happens,...
Read MoreStormy factors could lead to Homeowners' rate increases.
No one likes for insurance rates to go up. But a perfect storm of factors could be driving up rates for homeowners' customers across the country, especially in the Southeast.A combination of high population growth, fluctuating cost of...
Read MoreHow to Avoid Common Summer Insurance Claims
Ah, Summer. A time for fun, relaxation… and risk! As you enjoy the balmy weather and outdoor activities, make sure to take some simple steps to keep your sweet summer from going sour.Here are some tips for mitigating risk this...
Read More
Wet Wide World
It’s raining cats and dogs all over the world, and many places that thought they’d never have a flood are dealing with high water.Even in your neck of the woods, flooding is more likely than ever to happen.If you’re...
Read MoreE-bike? Easy.
Whether you already have an e-bike or you’ve found yourself mesmerized as one glided silently down the street, they’re all the rage. It’s easy to see why.E-bikes are a perfect midpoint between the convenience of a...
Read More
Wet Wide World
It’s raining cats and dogs all over the world, and many places that thought they’d never have a flood are dealing with high water.Even in your neck of the woods, flooding is more likely than ever to happen.If you’re...
Read More
Wet Wide World
It’s raining cats and dogs all over the world, and many places that thought they’d never have a flood are dealing with high water.Even in your neck of the woods, flooding is more likely than ever to happen.If you’re...
Read MoreCost Cutting Confidential
Like most Americans, you're probably feeling the impact of inflation across your finances — including insurance costs.As the price of materials and supplies increases, each claim can become more expensive than the last.Try these...
Read MoreHow to Keep Your Identity Safe
In case you didn’t know, June is National Internet Safety Month. With nearly 4 billion people on social media worldwide, plus the risks of using online brokerage and bank accounts, the need for digital security has never been...
Read MoreFirst Day of Spring
Spring is here! And soon the landscape will turn greener and the weather warmer. Perhaps you are already thinking about what you would like to do – the trips you could take, that new look for your yard or your garden, a day at...
Read More
Time to Spring Forward
Do the days seem to be getting just a bit longer? Yes, you’re correct. It is almost Daylight Saving Time.Many of the timepieces you rely on will make the change thanks to their software programming; others will need adjustment....
Read More
Tips for Unexpected Winter Weather
If you’re like many Americans, you’ve been hit by a hefty dose of winter recently. Even if you aren’t used to snowstorms, heavy rains, or bitterly cold temperatures, you should keep a few things in mind to either limit...
Read More
Happy Presidents Day
Presidents Day is upon us. It's time to celebrate Washington's birthday and celebrate the founding of our nation. Washington said, "Perseverance and spirit have done wonders in all ages." This Presidents Day, I hope you take a moment...
Read More
Happy St. Patrick's Day
What happens on March 17? What makes that day so special? If you are of Irish descent or Irish at heart, you surely know – it is St. Patrick’s Day! On this day, the patron saint of Ireland is honored and celebrated, and...
Read More
Your Worst Case Scenario Kit
This winter has been one heck of a wild one.We’ve seen freezing temperatures, heavy winter weather where you would expect it, and even lots of snow and ice in places where you typically don’t. And, as all of those stranded...
Read More
Cost of Materials and Insurance
If you’re a homeowner or on your way to becoming one, you’ve probably heard about the increasing construction costs.In addition to making the purchase of a new home difficult for many, skyrocketing prices for lumber and...
Read MoreIce? Ice! Maybe.
Let’s stop and collaborate about a hazard many of us face in the winter: ice.A whopping 24% of all vehicle accidents happen in winter weather (snow, freezing rain, sleet, and frozen ice). It affects homes and other pieces of...
Read MoreMother Nature takes no holidays.
Whether you didn’t want to see it end or couldn’t wait for it to be over, 2022 did not go out with a whimper.Record cold temperatures. Record blizzards. Record rainstorms. No matter what our plans were for the holidays,...
Read More
Simple Cyber Security Tips
If you’re reading this, you’re online. Nearly everyone is now, from kids with phones to grandmas looking at those kids on social media.Unfortunately, if you’re online, you’re also vulnerable to cyber attacks....
Read More
Happy New Year - 2022 into 2023
A new year is on the horizon. Each day that comes presents something new and exciting both for you and the people in your life.Is this the year you open the door to something new and exciting? Embark on some new travel adventure? Or...
Read MoreHoliday Presents and Accounted For
The weather is cooler. The music is festive. The air is alive with the smells of pine, nutmeg, and commerce. The holidays are here, which means family, friendship, and presents.But let’s talk about those gifts.Most valuables are...
Read MoreHoliday Traffic
It’s hard to believe it, but it’s official: The end-of-the-year holidays are here.Thanksgiving is right around the corner, kicking off some of the busiest traffic weeks of the year. Whether you are flying across the country...
Read More
Remembering Pearl Harbor
In Hawaii, among the verdant natural beauty and warm and welcoming waters, there stands a monument. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial marks the destruction of the U.S.S. Arizona, the final resting place of 1,102 soldiers who lost...
Read More
Happy Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving will be here soon. The holiday always gives us a chance to appreciate what we have – friendships, relationships, and a sense of togetherness. These gifts are priceless.This holiday is also an appropriate time for me...
Read More
Tips for Unexpected Winter Weather
If you’re like many Americans, you’ve been hit by a hefty dose of winter recently.Even if you aren’t used to snowstorms, heavy rains, or bitterly cold temperatures, you should keep a few things in mind to either limit...
Read MoreClaims After a Disaster
As hurricane Ian reminded us, natural disasters are a part of living on Mother Earth.Insurance was designed to help during events just like these. But what should you do if you have a claim during one of these disasters?Knowing how to...
Read More
Honoring Veterans Day
On November 11, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who have served America in the armed forces. It is also a time to appreciate the commitment of our active military personnel and their dedicated families.Let us honor their...
Read More
Daylight Savings Time
The leaves are falling, the weather is getting colder, and the sun is setting earlier. Sure enough, Daylight Saving Time is about to end for the year. I just thought I would remind you.DST ends this year at exactly 2:00 am on the first...
Read More
Happy Halloween!
October is coming to an end, and that means Halloween will be here before you know it. Are you ready for the holiday? If you have kids, no doubt they are!All Hallows Eve is celebrated in many ways today; they are all enjoyable. So,...
Read More
Considerations During Medicare’s Open Enrollment
How long has it been since you’ve reviewed your Medicare policy? With open enrollment fast approaching, there are a few questions you may want to ask yourself before you renew, add, drop, or switch coverage.Have you switched...
Read MoreCost Cutting Confidential
Like most Americans, you're probably feeling the impact of inflation across your finances — including insurance costs.As the price of materials and supplies increases, each claim can become more expensive than the last.Try these...
Read MoreHow The Housing Market Affects Your Home Coverage
Are you obsessively checking home prices on your favorite real estate app, even if you aren’t in the market to buy or sell?You’re not alone. Homeowners across the country are wondering how high interest rates and falling...
Read More