Zielonka Financial Services LLC

(888) 967-1040

Insurance Read Time: 4 min

When to Self-Insure

One reality of life is that risk is ever present. It exists in our commute to work, in our investment choices, and in our lifestyle decisions. Some risks can be transferred to an insurance company (e.g. auto or homeowners), while others we assume ourselves.

When you choose to bear the financial burden of an adverse event, you are engaging in self-insurance.1

You may self-insure by assuming the entirety of a financial risk, or a portion of it. For example, the deductibles you have on your insurance policies are an expression of the portion of financial risk you are willing to assume.

If you want to self-insure, you should consider two action steps.

The first is to attempt to manage risks, such as installing a home alarm or not texting and driving.

The second step is to create a cash reserve to have available for expenses that are associated with any losses you may suffer.

If you choose to self-insure, here are some tips that might help you manage the costs:

  • The deductible you choose is one of the major factors in pricing an insurance policy. Generally, the higher the deductible, the lower the cost of the insurance.
  • You can choose to selectively assume all the risk. For instance, do you really need to purchase extended warranties? Does your 14-year-old car need collision coverage?
  • Consider lengthening the waiting period before payments begin on disability insurance. By choosing to wait, for example 90 days before beginning benefit payments rather than 30 days, you are self-insuring the 60-day difference, which potentially can reduce the cost of a policy.2

The reserve fund you may create to pay for potential financial losses should be kept in highly liquid assets, such as money market mutual funds.³

Money market mutual funds are sold by prospectus. Please consider the charges, risks, expenses, and investment objectives carefully before investing. A prospectus containing this and other information about the investment company can be obtained from your financial professional. Read it carefully before you invest or send money.

Ultimately, the decision to self-insure—and to what degree—will be a function of how much risk you can afford to take on.

1. Self-insuring is an insurance strategy based on certain assumptions. It is not intended to provide specific insurance advice. Keep in mind that the types of insurance examples and approaches illustrated may not be suitable for everyone. A financial professional can help with a risk evaluation.
2. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Federal and state laws and regulations are subject to change, which may have an impact on after-tax investment returns. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.
3. Money held in money market funds is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Money market funds seek to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 a share. However, it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy or Not to Buy

The decision whether to buy or rent a home may have long-term implications.

Dog Bites and Homeowners Insurance

Dog Bites and Homeowners Insurance

Reviewing coverage options is just one thing responsible pet parents can do to help look out for their dogs.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Rebalancing Your Portfolio

Over time, different investments' performances can shift a portfolio’s intent and risk profile. Rebalancing may be critical.

Protecting Your Business from the Loss of a Key Person

Business owners may be able to protect themselves from the financial consequences of losing a key employee.

Making a Charitable Contribution

There are benefits and limitations when you decide to donate stock.

View all articles

Estimate Your RMD

Help determine the required minimum distribution from an IRA or other qualified retirement plan.

Comparing Investments

This calculator compares the net gain of a taxable investment versus a tax-favored one.

What Is My Current Net Worth?

Use this calculator to estimate your net worth by adding up your assets and subtracting your liabilities.

View all calculators

5 Smart Investing Principles

Principles that can help create a portfolio designed to pursue investment goals.

Protecting Those Who Matter Most

The importance of life insurance, how it works, and how much coverage you need.

Long-Term-Care Protection Strategies

The chances of needing long-term care, its cost, and strategies for covering that cost.

View all presentations

Exit Strategies of the Rich and Famous

Estate conservation is too important to put off. Do you have a smart exit strategy?

Questions to Consider When Buying a Vacation Home

Doing your research is key before buying a vacation home.

Suddenly Single: 3 Steps to Take Now

Have you found yourself suddenly single? Here are 3 steps to take right now.

View all videos