business insurance

Holiday cheer in the workplace can spice up the regular workday for both customers and employees. At the same time, business owners need to consider setting up some guidelines to ensure that the office remains free of discrimination. Aside from legal considerations, it's important to be respectful and inclusive of all staff and clients when decorating the office and planning holiday parties, if you choose to host one.
Continue Reading...

Whether you specialize in carpentry, web design, or accounting, the availability of online resources and professional networks enables almost anyone to engage with potential clients and manage essential day-to-day business tasks independently. This growing pool of freelancers and self-employed professionals has simplified the process for employers, making it easier than ever to hire independent contractors to fulfill specific business needs.
Continue Reading...

Whether you're looking to expand operations, launch a new product, or overcome a temporary financial challenge, having access to capital is essential. While different lenders have particular standards and regulations, there are some basic steps business owners can take to improve their chances of scoring a loan.
Continue Reading...

Business is a great way to supplement your income, pursue your passions, or build a foundation for a future full-time venture. However, it's important to be aware of the risks involved before you take the plunge.
Continue Reading...

Both business owners and employees have likely heard of OSHA, which stands for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, a federal agency that sets and enforces safety regulations to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for employees.
Continue Reading...

Business owners in New York are likely in tune with some of the most essential factors that lead to success. Some examples of things that are taught in most business classes include the importance of customer retention, building a loyal customer base, and building a positive brand reputation.
Continue Reading...

No matter what part of the country you live in, summertime is when service industry businesses are in full swing. The nice weather brings people out, it's when many try to tackle home improvement projects, kids are out of school, and families tend to travel more it's an action-packed time of year.
Continue Reading...

As a business owner in New York, you have the option of hiring contract or permanent employees – and many more businesses are using contract workers while sorting out the uncertainty in the economy. A contract employee is essentially a freelancer who has agreed to work for you for a mutually-agreed upon period of time, which may be extended if you see fit. A permanent employee has been hired with the understanding that he or she will go on working for you until a termination or a resignation. Both types of employees have their advantages and disadvantages. Some of the advantages of contract employees, however, are illusory.
Continue Reading...

Technology and social trends have driven a wave of telecommuting. Many of us work at home at least on some days while some may work from home all the time. For that reason, more and more homes contain a designated office area; with increasing frequency that area is a room.
Continue Reading...

Even businesses with the most effective Human Resources Departments and the happiest of employees are vulnerable to lawsuits. Unforeseen situations can quickly escalate, positive working relationships can turn sour, and employees can become litigious, sometimes without valid reason. Unfortunately, even the most bogus claims must be addressed in court, and legal fees associated with winning a lawsuit can exceed $250,000, which hardly feels like a victory.
Continue Reading...

We've said it before: the distinction between a small and large business is somewhat arbitrary. At what point in the business growth life cycle do you cross over? One way to answer the question is when your business no longer qualifies for a Business Owners Package Policy. The BOP bundles up several kinds of insurance protection in one policy. But as business become larger the risks they pose become more varied and difficult to address in one policy.
Continue Reading...

Over the last decade, there's been a shift in the workplace, one that prioritizes the health and happiness of employees. For large corporations, like Facebook and Google, that might include time allotted to working out each week in an on-site facility, and for most, it's meant a shift in work schedules from in-person office time to hybrid models. This new "business as usual" allows increased personal freedom and an improved work-life balance for many. However, for managers, it has necessitated an overhaul of procedures to ensure traditionally effective business standards are met.
Continue Reading...

The appeal of freelance, contract work, and work-from-home careers is broad and deep, including the unlimited opportunity for financial growth, unfettered freedom, flexible schedules, the pursuit of personal goals, and the list goes on. And, while that's all as true as the day is long, so is the lack of structure and unmitigated personal accountability. For freelancers, time management is of the utmost importance. Without a strong commitment to making and keeping deadlines, responsibly managing workflow, and sticking to some sort of structured daily schedule, freelancing can spell personal and financial disaster.
Continue Reading...

An impending lawsuit is never good news. Not only are they costly, but, perhaps worse, they can permanently damage a company's reputation, an expense no business can easily afford during highly competitive consumer and employee markets like the current. While companies are sued for a range of reasons, there are a few recurring culprits that can be avoided with appropriate planning, clear communication, and due diligence.
Continue Reading...

When COVID-19 shut the entire world down two years ago, many wondered how businesses would pivot and persist. As closures and restrictions continued far beyond anyone's initial projections, it became obvious that "business as usual" was going to be anything but. And, while the transition to a remote model for schools and businesses throughout the world was an unprecedented shift with no real map for structure or outcomes, many made the adjustment with relative ease and found the remote model was not without benefit. Now, as the corporate world attempts a return to what was, it faces a number of concerns and considerations, not the least of which being a pool of employees that might rather remain remote.
Continue Reading...

Large or established businesses often have top level management and policies guided by a board of directors. But boards exist all around us and not just in a corporate setting. In each case, individual board members can be held liable for their actions or the actions of the board of directors and subject to lawsuits.
Continue Reading...

Business travelers, and the travel managers who plan for them, have different concerns when it comes to addressing unexpected inconveniences. Corporate travel insurance policies can be a great fit for any business looking to mitigate expenses related to company travel, including non-refundable costs associated with emergency flight or hotel changes, necessary medical treatments for traveling employees, and equipment or property loss. While canceled flights, missed connections, baggage delays, and medical emergencies are difficult for any traveler, there are unique considerations for corporate travelers and specific provisions for the business travel insurance policies that cover them.
Continue Reading...

Whether you're a business owner, contractor, or employee, most likely you take job safetyand on-the-job injuriesseriously. But many people have incomplete or incorrect information about Workers Compensation Insurance, which is designed to support both employers and workers when an injury does occur. Take the time to read about some common misconceptions about Workers' Compensation Insurance, and set the record straight.
Continue Reading...

Extreme weather is becoming more and more common these days, but even run-of-the-mill heat, rain, or snow can ruin an event or make it very difficult to carry out certain business operations, like construction. And when you have put thousands of dollars into a multi-day festival, film shoot, wedding, outdoor sale, or any type of activity that can be negatively impacted by the weather, it can be devastating to have to cancel or postpone due to intense heat or a dangerous storm. Even worse, you might not be able to recoup your costs, unless you have weather insurance.
Continue Reading...

Business insurance is a must in today's climate, but many owners don't understand the basic ins-and-outs of this type of policy, including why it's necessary, what it covers, and how to get the right coverage for yourself and your business. Here are five common myths about business insurance, and the myth-busters that you need to know.
Continue Reading...

Every type of business comes with its own unique risks. When it comes to insuring your business, you want to make sure you have the right type and amount of coverage, while not paying for coverage you really don't need. So how can you make sure you're getting the best deal, but not putting your business at risk?
Continue Reading...

For a small business owner, having to let go of employees is never easy. When employees have become like friends or even family, it can be especially tough to make a decision to do what's right for your business. So how do you know when it's time to let people go, and how do you downsize in the most humane way possible? Here are some things you should consider before downsizing, and some tips for going through the process.
Continue Reading...

So your business is growing, and that's a great thing. But as you add employees, assets, services, or any other elements, your business operations naturally become more complex. In addition, as your business grows, different laws and regulations may start to apply. If you're at a point where it's getting hard to keep up with all the rules you're supposed to be following and monitor whether your employees are fulfilling their legal and ethical responsibilities, it might be time to look into hiring a compliance officer.
Continue Reading...

After a year of living through a global pandemic, many people's work lives look much, much different. While many of us are excited to get back to the office, others actually worry about returning to the demands of a nine to five schedule away from home. Employees and employers alike are wondering: is remote work here to stay?
Continue Reading...

Recently, we covered the basics of commercial umbrella insurance: What is it, and is it right for your business? This month, we'll get into a few more details, and look at some of the instances in which commercial umbrella insurance might apply.
Continue Reading...

As a small business owner, you want to keep your business, employees, and customers safe. Whether you're a new business owner or a veteran who just wants to make sure you're doing things right, here's a checklist of things you can do to promote a safe and healthy working environment.
Continue Reading...

Thinking of starting a business? You should know that the way you choose to structure your business for official and tax purposes matters. It can impact how much you pay in taxes, whether partners are allowed to participate in managing the business, and your amount of personal liability. Here are a few of the most common business types, and what you need to know about some of their major differences.
Continue Reading...

All business owners in New York need solid, affordable insurance, and many companies require multiple types. But what happens when something goes wrong and your insurance doesn't cover it? If the cost to pay for injury to others exceeds your policy limits, or worse, is excluded by the insurance policies you have, you could be stuck with potentially crippling out-of-pocket costs.
Continue Reading...

Training employees can be costly and time-consuming. Even if you don't work in an industry with a high turnover rate, we now live in an era where many people switch careers multiple times in their lifetime, making it harder to find employees you can really nurture and invest in the long term. So how do you decide how much time, money, and energy to invest in training new employees? Consider these things to help you decide how to develop your workforce in a way that makes the most sense for your business.
Continue Reading...

If you're a small business owner, chances are the pandemic has been especially tough on you and your family. You may have had to change your business model, lay off employees or worse, close up shop indefinitely. But what about your employees? If you're a small business owner looking to support your staff through the pandemic, here's what you need to know.
Continue Reading...

In theory, as a small business owner, you hire some employees because of their skills and expertise, and others for their labor and ability to learn. But there's no getting around the fact that both types of staff will need at least some training, and both will benefit from clear expectations and guidance.
Continue Reading...

Working virtually has become the norm, but that doesn't mean it's gotten easier. Many of us are still struggling to be productive, take time for ourselves, help our kids with online school, and make sure our pets don't crash our work Zoom meetings. So how do you make the most of your day when there seem to be so many things working against you?
Continue Reading...

For small business owners, hiring and managing employees can be a rewarding but stressful part of the job. During uncertain times, maybe you need extra help but are thinking twice about committing to an official employee. So when should you hire, and when might an independent contractor or outsourcing company be a better fit? Here are some tips to guide that decision.
Continue Reading...

A comprehensive business insurance policy is a must for any business owner. But under what circumstances do you need to take another look at that policy and make important adjustments? Here are some instances when it would be a good idea to revisit your business insurance plan and add to, or change, your coverage.
Continue Reading...

A few short months ago, many of us, and around the world, quickly learned that we were not prepared for an emergency. And while it didn't turn out to be the type of emergency we thought it was; there was really no need to buy all that toilet paper. It reminded us that we are not invincible, and that we really should have an emergency plan and supplies in place. If you haven't already put together your own emergency plan and supplies, it's not too late. Take the following steps to make sure your family is prepared.
Continue Reading...

For business owners, operating during a pandemic is complicated to say the least. You want to do the right thing by your staff and customers, without losing the business you love. In many cases, there is a lot you can do to make patronizing and working at your business safer for everyone.
Continue Reading...

So your business has grown enough that you have full time employees and want to start offering benefits, including paid time off. How do you craft a vacation policy that works for you, your business and employees? There's not a one-size-fits all solution, but here are some things to think about and tips for getting started.
Continue Reading...

In some areas of the country, having an air conditioner is an absolute necessity. But in other areas, such as in the Rocky Mountain Regions, staying cool indoors takes some diligence and effort. Whether your home is equipped with AC or not, here are some things you can do to keep your spaces cooler this summer.
Continue Reading...

Deciding to sell your small business is no small decision. Whether you're moving on to a new opportunity, shifting your professional focus, or just handing over the reins to an owner with fresh enthusiasm, it's always bittersweet to let go of something that you undoubtedly poured yourself into. Here are some things you can do to ease the transition and leave on a positive note:
Continue Reading...

Whether you use a single vehicle or an entire fleet for your business, keeping them running smoothly is critical to fulfilling your business goals. And if employees are using those vehicles, that adds in another layer of complexity. Here's what you need to know about how to keep your business vehicles well maintained, and keep your employees safe on the job while using them.
Continue Reading...

If you're a small business owner, every dollar counts, and tax preparation is no exception. The good news is that there are many ways for small business owners to maximize credits and deductions, and to find help and resources for preparation. Here are our top five tips for a stress-free tax season.
Continue Reading...

What would we do without our handy power strips? Those convenient blocks of electrical sockets, which enable us to convert one outlet into several, make it possible to plug in all the gear that we can't live without these days. A typical location for a power strip is the home office, where it helps computers, speakers, printers, monitors, and all sorts of other necessities come to life. But many households have power strips in multiple rooms, if not every room, since there are so many items that require plugging in these days. Hairstyling tools, cooking equipment, and phone chargers come to mind!
Continue Reading...

Research has shown that the lighting, arrangement, scent, and color can influence a person's mood, stress level, and even their productivity. The Chinese philosophy of Feng Shui explains the principles of arranging and decorating a space in order to support the goals and well being of the people who use it. Feng shui is about living in harmony with your surroundings and increasing the kind of energy you want, whether that be powerful, calm, or inspiring. Here are some tips to bring the principles of feng shui, and therefore more harmony, into your office.
Continue Reading...

Starting your own business is inherently risky. It takes courage to become an entrepreneur and the risks involved can be part of what makes it exciting. But not all risks are created equal, and those who end up making it know the difference between a calculated risk versus one they can and should avoid. So what potential hazards and obstacles should new business owners be thinking about ahead of time?
Continue Reading...

As the end of the year approaches, it's a good time to take inventory, reflect on the past, and make plans for future goals. You might consider your relationships, professional life, health, financial situation, or all of the above. Don't forget to also take stock of your insurance coverage and make necessary adjustments based on things that have changed over the past year. Here are some of the most important areas to consider:
Continue Reading...

Artisan contractors are essential to the building industry and to making indoor spaces functional and beautiful. According to the Insurance Information Institute: "artisan contractors, also known as casual contractors, includes many occupations that involve skilled work with tools at the customer's premises. Carpenters, plumbers, electricians, roofers and tree surgeons are some of them. Also included are diverse other skilled service providers, such as interior decorators, piano tuners and exterminators." So what type of insurance does an artisan contractor need to protect their business and equipment? Here's what you need to know.
Continue Reading...

Running a small business in New York can bring daily challenges, from minor equipment breakdowns to staff or customer injuries; or damage to your building caused by a storm or break in. These daily obstacles are the cost of doing business, but if you're not prepared, they can keep your business from moving forward or even force you to close your doors. That's why every small business owner needs a great business owner's policy (BOP). A business owner's policy combines multiple necessary insurance coverages into one package for a reduced price. Here's what you need to know to find the right policy for your business:
Continue Reading...

If you're thinking of starting a business, writing a business plan may seem overwhelming, unnecessary, or both. Maybe you're going into an industry you already know extremely well; or maybe you simply feel confident that you know where you want to go and can articulate it to others. No matter your situation, don't skip this step. A business plan done right can save you time, energy and some major headaches in the long run.
Continue Reading...

Opening a restaurant is a lifelong dream for some small business owners. And as with starting any business, it takes a lot of guts, not to mention blood, sweat, and tears, just to get it up and running.
Continue Reading...

Whenever a private company officially becomes a corporation, it's required by law that the company assemble a board of directors to represent the interests of shareholders. While limited liability companies (LLC) and nonprofits are not legally required to have a board of directors, many choose to anyway. Here's what you need to know if you are a business owner or nonprofit director who wants to put together a top-notch board of directors.
Continue Reading...

Although the idea for Inland Marine Insurance was inspired by Ocean Marine Insurance, which protects cargo and equipment while in transit on the ocean, it doesn't actually have anything to do with the sea. Inland Marine Insurance is a specialized coverage that can cover equipment, tools, project materials and other items while they are being transported on land, or while they are off your property. This type of insurance can benefit a wide variety of business and provide protection in some common situations that wouldn't normally be covered by insurance. So does your business need Inland Marine Insurance?
Continue Reading...

If you're a business owner, you need insurance. But how much and what type can vary greatly depending on your type of business, resources, assets and specific needs. So what should you consider before purchasing a business policy? Here are some risks and coverages you will want to take into account as you work with Executive Insurance & Financial Services to find the right plan for you.
Continue Reading...

Companies like Facebook, Google, and Amazon have set up alternative work cultures, with food and exercise on site. They are regularly named some of the best places to work by their employees, and success gurus everywhere study their methods. So what can small businesses learn from these uber-successful tech giants? And how can they implement similar ideas without breaking the bank? Here's what you need to know:
Continue Reading...

Spring is fast approaching and for some drivers that means it's time to shop for a new car. The following cars are rated as the top ten most expensive cars to insure. However, at the end of the day, several factors affect your car insurance premium, not just the price tag on your dream vehicle.
Continue Reading...

It seems like a lot of people have a side hustle these days, a way to make some extra money or pursue the things that really strike their interests. And plenty of people have turned even their most unusual hobbies, dreams and ideas into full-time careers. So how do you know if you'll be able to successfully make the leap from employee to entrepreneur? Here are a few things you might want to check off the list before giving your two weeks' notice.
Continue Reading...

This past year, it seemed like just about every week there was a new headline about some serious privacy breach, intentional or otherwise, occurring at a major organization. With the increasing popularity of technologies, from genetic testing to health tracking apps and electronic payment services, we're putting more of our important personal information online, and we have less and less understanding of what's being done with that information or how to keep it safe. Here are a few important takeaways from the year in digital privacy, and a few things you can do to make your information safer this year.
Continue Reading...

For many modern entrepreneurs, creatives, and freelancers, working from home is a dream come true. But the reality of it can be much different. How do you stay on task, handle isolation, and keep yourself from eating a full sleeve of cookies from the kitchen? Read on to find out.
Continue Reading...

Owning a business means that you're responsible and often liable for the welfare of your staff and clients. Winter can bring extra hazards and increase the possibility of accidents and injury.
Continue Reading...

In today's information economy, it's easier than ever for potential customers to get what used to be considered inside information on companies' business practices, products, and, maybe most importantly, how they treat their clients. It's also easier than ever for clients to vote with their dollars when a company doesn't live up to their expectations. So how do you gain and retain loyal, long-term clients in an increasingly competitive marketplace? Give them an exceptional experience. Here's how:
Continue Reading...

As a small business owner, you may not be in the position to offer traditional benefits, such as health insurance or 401Ks, to your staff. But there are other things you can do to make your business a great place to work, and enticing for both current and potential employers. Try these to get started:
Continue Reading...

If you're a modern business owner in New York, chances are you have spent time developing a mission and vision for your business, and you have a detailed strategic plan for making those things happen. Many business owners are also using vision boards as a tool to bring their company closer to success. Here's how you can, too:
Continue Reading...

The 9-5 job or office setting isn't for everyone. Many entrepreneurs are abandoning the traditional workplace setup so they can set their own hours, work from anywhere they want and pick and choose their clients. Perhaps that's why you became a small business owner yourself. For business owners who have employees, It can also be beneficial for employers to embrace some elements of modern work life in order to keep great employees.
Continue Reading...

Many employers take the time and effort to follow through with employee reviews, while others let this annual tradition slide. Annual performance reviews can be excruciating, productive, or somewhere in between. So what makes the difference? What makes an annual review effective, and how can both employers and employees can prepare to get the best possible outcome?
Continue Reading...

It's a big step for a small business owner to hire a manager, to hand over and trust certain tasks to someone else. In doing so, it's important, even in bigger corporations, to look for those with certain traits and talents.
Continue Reading...

Whether your workplace is outdoors or in a cozy office, winter conditions can affect your employees' work and personal safety on the job. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), employers are required to provide sufficient training and the right equipment to keep employees safe in the workplace, and to provide an environment that is "free from recognized hazards" that could cause injury or death. Here's what you can do to prepare for and protect yourself and your employees from the most common winter workplace hazards.
Continue Reading...

Some small business owners in New York can hardly keep apace with the holiday rush; other businesses slow down to a near crawl during this time of the year. So how do you make the most of the season, regardless of which end of the spectrum you're on?
Continue Reading...

Most people assume that having replacement value property insurance means that even if something happens, they're in good shape. After all, replacement value should pay for a brand new version of whatever you lost, right? But when it comes to buildings, including homes, both new and old, this isn't always the case. If you're a property owner, it's important to know about ordinance or law coverage and how it applies to you. Failure to understand when and where ordinance and law coverage is necessary may mean that if your home or commercial building is damaged, you don't have the coverage you need.
Continue Reading...

When it's time to store your boat for the winter, sit down with a member of the marina's staff and discuss what you can expect to have done. Most marinas are prepared to service your boat efficiently, but you are responsible for seeing that all work is done. Ask that they call you when the winterizing is complete.
Continue Reading...

Many companies are saving money by outsourcing instead of hiring in-house positions. How does outsourcing work and when does it make sense?
Continue Reading...

Your home or business is damaged. Your first priority is to get it fixed right away, so you call a contractor to assess the situation and give you an estimate on the repair cost. It makes sense: the insurance company will want one anyway, right? But this simple process may turn into a nightmare, depending on how you handle it.
Continue Reading...

According to the Small Business Association (SBA), the number of small businesses is growing. Recent data shows a newly upward trend in startups, and an influx of jobs created by businesses with less than 50 employees, which has positively contributed to a declining unemployment rate. Still, only about half of small businesses with employees survive to the five year mark and beyond (SBA). What factors most influence a new business's success, and what are the major issues facing employers today? A recent survey by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and research from other small business organizations highlight some of the most critical issues affecting the small business landscape.
Continue Reading...

Dear Valued Client:

Continue Reading...

Do you have employees who travel for work, or do you travel for work often? If so, you may know the ins-and-outs. Here are some considerations for business travel that you can pass along to those employees who hit the road regularly.
Continue Reading...

It's that time of year when high school and college students are out of school, and many are looking for summer work. It's also the time when some seasonal businesses pick up, and many depend on solid summer help. Hiring seasonal workers?
Continue Reading...

Have you ever thought about how many industries are dying, or at least cutting jobs, due to automation? According to the World Economic Forum, we're in the midst of a "Fourth Industrial Revolution," in which technological developments in a wide variety of fields are quickly transforming the labor market and the way we do business.
Continue Reading...

Running a family business in with your spouse as your business partner or another family member means that there are struggles outside the boundaries of the typical business day. For all family businesses in New York, here are some tips for leaving the family drama behind.
Continue Reading...

The term "catastrophe" brings to mind an event so disastrous, so "out there," that the odds of it happening to us are very, very low. Hail, wildfires, tornadoes, winter and tropical storms and man-made disasters like explosions can all qualify as catastrophic events. Yet none of these normal occurrences (depending on where you live) are covered by a standard home or business owner's insurance policy. Keep reading to find out whether catastrophe insurance makes sense for your home or business:
Continue Reading...

Starting a small business in New York is exciting, but on the journey to success, mistakes are inevitable. But if you're starting your own company, some mistakes can be fatal. Increase the odds that your new venture will stay afloat by avoiding these all-too-common roadblocks:
Continue Reading...

Hiring and training new employees is exhausting, time-consuming, and can cause your business to operate at a level below what's acceptable. So it makes sense to put energy into keeping great employees around.
Continue Reading...

Much of our lives are spent online these days, so it only makes sense that insurance companies are starting to offer products to help protect consumers from the significant losses that can occur related to their online activity. And it's not just identity theft that's covered by these new cyber insurance and related "cyber loss" policies. Here are a few of the most popular new coverages to protect yourself online and ultimately, off.
Continue Reading...

A 5-Step Checklist for Financial Health in 2017

Continue Reading...

'Tis the season of gift giving. Maybe you feel an obligation to give holiday gifts to your dedicated clients, your boss, employees, or important co-workers; or maybe it's just something you'd like to do. However, when giving in a professional environment, there are some guidelines. Here some gift ideas that won't break the bank or cause professional turmoil.
Continue Reading...

In a classic "Saturday Night Live" sketch, actor and comedian Steve Martin once gave the most underrated advice on how to become a millionaire: "First, you get a million dollars." But if that doesn't work for you, try these inspirational ideas from some of the world's most famous self-made entrepreneurs:
Continue Reading...

Everyone is entitled to a safe and healthy work environment: your employer is required by law to provide a safe workplace, adequate training in a language you understand, and appropriate safety equipment, among other things. If you are injured on the job or have a safety concern, it's your right to file a report and to be free from retaliation by your employer for speaking up. Read on to find out all about OSHA and how to exercise your right to health and safety at work.
Continue Reading...

Tips for Parents To Help Prevent Teen Car Crashes
Continue Reading...

Bad hires happen, even to successful business owners and to those experienced at hiring. So what do you do when an employee doesn't work out? Here is what you need to know about hiring and firing within the law:
Continue Reading...

Even for an excellent employee, an annual performance review can be stressful. They're tough on managers, too. Follow these 10 tips to make your reviews go as smoothly as possible for you as well as your most delightful and most difficult employees.
Continue Reading...

For small business owners in New York, taking off for a summer vacation can be more stressful than just staying at work. Here are some tips for going on vacation if you're the boss so that you can actually relax while you're away from the office.
Continue Reading...

Some states mandate comprehensive liability, which covers bodily injury and property damage.

Continue Reading...

Thinking about starting a business? Many of us dream about getting paid to do what we love or finding a way to pursue our creative ideas, but getting there is another story.
Continue Reading...

Continue Reading...

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, designed to encourage all drivers and motorcyclists to share the road with each other. Increased awareness of motorcycle safety has helped improve the number of injuries and fatalities of motorcyclists.

Continue Reading...

In one of our latest blog posts we talked about cleaning up your personal finances. Now that we've made it through tax season, it's a smart idea to evaluate your business financial picture as well. Here are some tips on how to appraise your company's financial health, and make improvements for its future:
Continue Reading...

Spring is just around the corner in New York. With it will come melting ice and snow, rising waters, and an increased potential for serious water damage due to flooding. Most standard insurance policies do not cover flooding, and that includes business and commercial policies. So should you spend extra to protect your business from flooding? Here are some things you should consider.
Continue Reading...

Continue Reading...

Continue Reading...

When a natural disaster or major emergency strikes, it's a good possibility that many of those affected will be on the job. That's why it's important for business owners to have a well thought out emergency plan, and to take precautions that will keep employees safe should a crisis occur.
Continue Reading...

Continue Reading...

Last week we talked about some important guidelines to follow for maintaining a holiday environment that's free from discrimination and harassment. Today's blog post is all about making your office party the best.
Continue Reading...

Bringing a little holiday cheer into your business is usually welcomed by customers and employees alike. But if you're a business owner, it's important to remember that there are legal guidelines you must follow to maintain an environment that's free from discrimination and harassment. Aside from legal considerations, it's best practice to be respectful and inclusive of all staff and clients during the holidays. Here are some tips on how to do the holidays at work:
Continue Reading...

Are your independent contractors really independent?
Continue Reading...

Last week, we discussed what other personal belongings you may want to insure separately. Here, let's look at some business assets that might warrant additional coverage.
Continue Reading...

It's often noted that America is an excessively litigious society which may or may not be accurate, depending on who you ask. But there's no question that the rules and regulations that have made it relatively easy to sue for personal injury in the US have resulted in some truly bizarre lawsuits and legal proceedings. Read on for some of the most entertaining ones we found.
Continue Reading...

We all need a vacation. And for many employees in New York, summer is the ideal time to plan a visit to the beach, take an extended road trip, or organize a family reunion. As a business owner, you want your employees to have time off, but you don't want your customers to suffer because of it.
Continue Reading...

For many business and creative professionals in New York, a regular nine to five job just isn't appealing anymore. And with many employers offering opportunities that allow workers to telecommute, work from home, or keep non-traditional hours, high-level employees no longer have to submit to the daily grind if they so choose. That means that employers who don't offer these options may lose their ability to attract great employees. Fortunately, flexible scheduling might actually be a good thing for business owners, too. Read on to discover why.
Continue Reading...

When an employee in New York gets injured on the job, the negative repercussions can affect everyone. Worker's Compensation Insurance ensures that both employees and employers are protected in the event of a worker accident, illness, or injury.
Continue Reading...

What technology is going to change your life this year? If you're an entrepreneur, it's highly likely at least one of the following technology advances will revolutionize the way you do business, present you with an unbeatable investment opportunity, or both. Read on to find out your technology future for 2015.
Continue Reading...

Finding a great employee takes effort, and keeping a good one long-term is a major accomplishment. If you're a business owner, you know that hiring and training employees takes an enormous amount of time and energy and always results in lost productivity. By some estimates, replacing an employee even a mediocre one can result in the loss of up to 20 percent of that worker's annual salary. And there's nothing worse than investing in a great prospect, only to have him or her move on in six months for the next best opportunity.
Continue Reading...

Calculating the cost of natural disasters and extreme weather events is a complex process that takes a myriad of factors into account, including insurance payouts, lost income, property damage, and lives lost. In most cases, the cost of damage caused by these events far exceeds insured losses. Read on to find out some of the most surprising and significant facts about weather and insurance in the United States and around the world.
Continue Reading...

Dangerous road conditions can occur any time of year, but winter is prime time for difficult driving in many Northern climates. Be prepared for whatever comes your way on the road by following these safe-driving suggestions:
Continue Reading...

It's no secret that many well-known, high-performing companies put serious effort into creating a healthy and comfortable work environment that is conducive to employees' productivity, creativity, and overall wellbeing. But you don't have to be a multi-million dollar enterprise to promote a healthy workplace. Implement these simple ideas to enhance your office atmosphere, and potentially improve your bottom line to boot.
Continue Reading...

New Year's is a time for reflection and revision, as we take stock of our accomplishments and failures and make plans for positive change in the year ahead. For those in business, it's just as important to apply this process to our professional lives. Here are eight surefire ways to improve your productivity and work life in the coming year.
Continue Reading...

Frittering away part of the workday chatting with colleagues, checking social media sites, or taking a short trip to the break room to see if there's one donut left is easy to do. Procrastination on this level may seem harmless, even justifiable to a hard working employee, but its negative impacts are more significant that you might think.
Continue Reading...

At school, home, and in the corporate workplace, taking the time to create an emergency preparedness plan is common; but for busy small business owners in New York, this seemingly non-urgent task can easily take a backseat to more pressing concerns. However, by neglecting this task, your small businesses could be at greater risk of serious negative impacts.
Continue Reading...

If you're a business owner in New York, allowing employees to take a smart phone break during work hours probably sounds like a pretty lousy idea. But a recent study suggests that doing just that might actually be good for morale and productivity, too.
Continue Reading...

We all get nervous when we read in the local news that our favorite restaurant has earned a violation from the health department. But how many of us use the same level of care we expect from a quality establishment when preparing meals in our own homes?
Continue Reading...

Before the Internet, a dissatisfied customer might complain to a family member, and perhaps a neighbor or two. These days, he'll use his computer or smartphone to vent his displeasure; he might even include an exaggeration or two (or 10). And instead of sharing his experience with a few people, he'll share it with potentially thousands upon thousands. Thanks to Yelp, Google Reviews, Amazon, and the like, everyone's a critic.
Continue Reading...

For their abilities to help a business run smoothly and thrive, today's Internet-related technologies leave business owners wondering if the companies they have worked so hard to build are truly safe in cyberspace. Here, we take a look at weak spots, and how you can protect your business and your clients in New York.
Continue Reading...

Flood insurance is a very important coverage to have when you live close to a body of water that has the potential to flow into your home. What a lot of people don't realize is that an overflowing body of water isn't the only way a home can flood. Flood damage can result from an sudden inundation of rising water flowing into your building.
Continue Reading...

Home sweet home is an obvious place to give a good scrubbing once springtime in New York arrives. It's time to wipe the grime out of every nook and cranny, wash the carpets and curtains, and pack away the space heaters and down blankets.
Continue Reading...

INSURANCE IS NO LAUGHING MATTER!!!