What to do before the first drive Check tires, brakes, lights, and wipers on the car they’ll actually use. Put proof of insurance and registration in the glove box. (or download our mobile app!) Add a basic roadside kit (jumper cables, tire gauge, flashlight). Bonus: Set up Find My/Location Sharing with agreed boundaries. Discounts that actually move the needle Good Student (ask me about the current GPA rules). Defensive Driving course completed. Telematics app Multi-vehicle/bundle if applicable. Easy practice routes (weeks 1–4) Week 1: Neighborhood loops at off-peak times—turn signals and full stops. Week 2: Add a simple highway merge and one roundabout or four-way stop. Week 3: Grocery run with parking practice (pull-throughs, back-in). Week 4: Night drive with you—headlights, oncoming glare, rural shoulders. Night driving + rural hazards Watch for deer at dusk, especially near tree lines or creek beds. Slow before dirt-to-pavement transitions—traction changes fast. Keep high beams courteous—dim early for oncoming traffic. Avoid overcorrecting on gravel; ease off the gas, steer smoothly. What to text me when your teen gets licensed Text 620-531-0261 with: Teen’s full name and license date The vehicle they’ll drive most Any driver-training or defensive course certificate Quick FAQ Should we add an umbrella policy? If your teen will drive regularly or others will ride with them, ask me for a quick quote—often low-cost for a big liability bump. When should we add them to the policy? As soon as they’re licensed (or sooner if your carrier requires permitted drivers listed).

If Your Home Insurance Just Went Up — You’re Not Alone You’ve probably noticed it: your home insurance renewal came in higher than last year. Maybe it’s $100 more, maybe $400. Either way, you’re asking the same question everyone is — why? You’re not the only one frustrated. In fact, Kansas has seen some of the steepest home insurance increases in the country over the last few years. But the good news? There are still smart ways to protect your home and your wallet if you know what’s driving these costs. Let’s break it down — in plain English. 1. Kansas Weather Has Been Hammering Insurance Companies Between hail, wind, and tornadoes, Kansas ranks near the top of the list for weather-related insurance claims. Every storm season brings more roof damage, more siding claims, and more payouts from insurance companies. When insurers have to pay out billions of dollars in storm losses across the state, they raise premiums to rebuild their reserves — even for folks who haven’t filed a claim. 💡 Think of it like car insurance: even if you’re a good driver, your rate can go up if everyone else around you keeps getting in accidents. 2. Repair and Construction Costs Are Way Up It’s no secret — building materials and labor costs have jumped dramatically since 2020. Shingles, lumber, and skilled labor are all more expensive, so even a small roof repair costs insurance companies a lot more today than it did a few years ago. That means your home’s replacement cost value (what it would take to rebuild it) has gone up too — and your policy has to reflect that. Even if you haven’t changed your home, the cost to replace it has. That’s a big driver behind today’s premium increases. 3. Reinsurance Costs Are Skyrocketing Here’s one most folks don’t hear about: insurance companies have insurance too. It’s called reinsurance, and it’s how insurers protect themselves from massive losses (like big hail events). Reinsurance rates have gone through the roof lately — especially in states like Kansas where severe weather is common. When reinsurance costs go up, local carriers have no choice but to pass some of that increase down to consumers. 4. Claim Frequency (and Fraud) Are Both Up There’s been a noticeable rise in small claims and unfortunately, a few bad actors taking advantage of storms. When claims (and costs) rise faster than premiums, insurance companies raise rates to balance the books. That’s why turning in small claims for things like minor shingle damage or a few fence boards can sometimes hurt you in the long run. Insurance companies track claim frequency closely — and fewer claims can mean better pricing later. 5. Inflation Hits Insurance, Too From materials to legal costs, inflation touches everything. Insurers are paying more for every claim, every repair, and every rebuild — and that inflation shows up in your premium. It’s not just Kansas; it’s happening nationwide. But local storm activity makes it worse here. What You Can Actually Do About It Okay — so rates are going up. Now what? Here’s the good news: you still have control over a lot more than you might think. ✅ 1. Raise Your Deductible (If It Makes Sense) If you can handle a little more out-of-pocket in an emergency, a higher deductible can drop your premium by 10–25%. It’s not for everyone, but if you rarely file claims, it’s worth considering. ✅ 2. Review Your Coverage Once a Year It’s easy to let your policy ride for years without checking it. But reviewing your coverage each year helps catch: Outdated home values Unnecessary add-ons Missing discounts (like home/auto bundles or alarm systems) A 15-minute policy review can easily save you hundreds. ✅ 3. Avoid Small Claims If you can afford to fix minor issues out of pocket, do it. Insurance is meant for the big stuff — and too many small claims can hurt your renewal pricing. ✅ 4. Work With an Independent Agent This one matters most. Independent agencies (like Goodman Insurance Solutions) can compare policies from multiple carriers — not just one. That means we can find the right fit for your home, location, and budget without cutting corners. Sometimes, it’s not about finding the cheapest policy — it’s about finding the one that gives you the best value for what you pay. FAQs: Kansas Home Insurance Rate Increases ❓ Why are home insurance rates going up in Kansas? Mainly because of severe weather, rising construction costs, and higher reinsurance expenses that impact every insurer in the region. ❓ How much have premiums increased? Most Kansas homeowners are seeing 10–30% increases year over year, depending on their area and claim history. ❓ Can I lower my home insurance without losing coverage? Yes — by adjusting deductibles, reviewing your coverage, and comparing carriers through an independent agent. ❓ Do home improvements help my rates? Yes. New roofs, hail-resistant shingles, and home security systems can all qualify for discounts. ❓ How often should I review my policy? At least once a year, or any time you make major updates to your home. Final Thoughts Rising insurance rates can feel frustrating — especially when you haven’t had a claim. But remember: not all of it is in your control, and not all companies handle it the same way. What is in your control is working with someone who will explain your options clearly and make sure you’re not paying for coverage you don’t need. If your premium jumped and you’re not sure why, let’s talk. We’ll review your policy line by line and find out what’s driving the increase — and where we can save you money. 💬 Let’s make your insurance make sense again. Contact Goodman Insurance Solutions  for a clear, honest home insurance review. 📞 Visit goodmaninsurancesolutions.com  or email Mike@GoodmanInsuranceSolutions.com  to get started.

Farming in Kansas Comes with Big Risks — Your Insurance Should Match It Since 2017, Goodman Insurance Solutions has helped Kansas farmers protect what they’ve built — their land, equipment, and peace of mind. From Dodge City to Garden City, Liberal to Ulysses, and Sublette to Hugoton, farmers across Southwest Kansas face the same challenge: rising repair costs, unpredictable storms, and policies that don’t always keep up. Too many operations still rely on basic farm liability coverage — the kind that might’ve worked years ago but doesn’t match the realities of today’s farming. Why Basic Liability Isn’t Enough Anymore A “one-size-fits-all” policy may look fine on paper, but when real losses happen — whether it’s a pivot collapse near Cimarron or spray drift in Meade County — that basic coverage can leave big gaps. Here’s where most farmers find themselves underinsured: Chemical drift damaging a neighbor’s field Center pivots destroyed by hail or wind Off-premise ATV or farm truck accidents Custom harvesting or spraying on someone else’s land Injuries to hired help or family working the operation Each of those situations needs more than a checkbox on a standard policy — they need endorsements that fit your real operation. 1️⃣ Chemical Drift & Spray Liability In Kansas, a small drift can create big losses. If herbicide touches a neighbor’s field, you could be looking at tens of thousands in damage. Most standard policies don’t include chemical drift liability — it has to be added on. That’s why every grower from Lakin to Satanta and Hugoton to Plains should check that endorsement line. 2️⃣ Off-Premise ATV and Vehicle Coverage If your UTV or ATV crosses onto property you don’t own — for custom work, checking pivots, or moving equipment — your regular policy may not follow you. I’ve seen this issue across Grant, Haskell, and Gray Counties — one off-premise accident can mean you’re paying out of pocket. Adding an off-premise liability endorsement protects you wherever you work. 3️⃣ Center Pivot & Irrigation Equipment Coverage Your pivots are major investments, but not every policy treats them that way. Wind, hail, or even theft can cause huge repair bills. Some insurers only pay partial value or limit coverage by age. Here in Finney and Ford Counties, I make sure clients have replacement cost coverage — not depreciated payouts. 4️⃣ Custom Work, Side Jobs, and Farm Services A lot of Kansas farmers do side work — spraying, harvesting, or baling — for neighbors. That’s income, but it’s also a different liability exposure. If you’re doing custom work near Hutchinson, Newton, or McPherson, make sure your policy reflects it. Otherwise, you could face denied claims for work not listed in your coverage. 5️⃣ Employees, Family, and Farm Help Many farms run on family labor, part-time help, or seasonal employees. If someone gets hurt while working, standard liability may not cover it. That’s where farm employer’s liability or workers comp for ag operations can protect you from massive lawsuits. I’ve seen too many good operations — from Great Bend to Pratt — get hit hard because the wrong box wasn’t checked years ago. The Kansas Weather Factor If you’ve farmed here long, you know how fast the wind changes. A single storm near Liberal or Garden City can destroy a shed, pivot, or roof overnight. And with weather-related claims rising across Finney, Ford, Meade, and Seward Counties, many insurers are tightening rules. That’s why underinsuring just to save money rarely pays off. Storms don’t care about policy limits — but you’ll be glad you worked with someone who does. Serving All of Kansas Farmers While Goodman Insurance Solutions is based in Southwest Kansas, we work with farmers across the state — from Dodge City, Ulysses, and Sublette, all the way east to Hutchinson, Newton, McPherson, Olathe, Paola, and Kansas City. Whether it’s a small family farm near Cimarron, a large operation around Great Bend, or an ag business near Kansas City, the goal’s the same — protect your equipment, property, and future with the right coverage. How We Do Things Differently When I review a farm policy, I’m not just quoting a number. I’m looking at your operation, equipment, land, and goals — the whole picture. ✅ Match liability to real exposure ✅ Review every endorsement (no fine print surprises) ✅ Explain coverage clearly ✅ Help your policy grow as your operation does It’s not about selling you insurance — it’s about keeping your farm running, no matter what Kansas throws your way. Key Takeaways Basic liability isn’t enough for modern Kansas farming Add endorsements for pivots, ATVs, chemical drift, and custom work Review your policy yearly Independent agents like me can shop multiple carriers for better coverage and value FAQs About Kansas Farm Insurance ❓ Does standard farm insurance cover chemical drift? Not automatically — it requires a chemical drift endorsement. ❓ Will my policy cover pivots and irrigation systems? Only if they’re specifically listed. Replacement cost coverage is best. ❓ What about off-premise ATV accidents? You’ll need off-premise liability coverage if you operate beyond your property. ❓ Does Goodman Insurance help across Kansas? Yes. We serve farms from Dodge City to Hutchinson and Newton to Kansas City. Final Thoughts Cheap coverage might keep you legal — but it won’t keep you safe. Kansas farming is changing fast, and your insurance should change with it. If it’s been more than a year since your last review, or if you’ve added new land, pivots, or custom work, let’s take a fresh look at your coverage. 📞 Contact Goodman Insurance Solutions Michael Goodman Goodman Insurance Solutions 📍 Serving Farmers Across Kansas Since 2017 📧 Mike@GoodmanInsuranceSolutions.com 🌐 www.GoodmanInsuranceSolutions.com 📞 620-531-0261 Proudly serving Dodge City, Garden City, Liberal, Sublette, Ulysses, Hugoton, Meade, Cimarron, Lakin, Satanta, Montezuma, Hutchinson, Newton, McPherson, Great Bend, Olathe, Paola, and Kansas City, KS.

You’ve probably seen the ads: “Get auto insurance in 5 minutes for less than your morning coffee!” It sounds great—until you realize what they’re really selling. Online insurance companies know that if they flash the cheapest price, you’ll click “buy.” And the way they do that is by putting you in state minimum coverages that leave your net worth wide open to risk. The Problem With State Minimums In Kansas, the minimum coverage is: $25,000 per person for injuries $50,000 per accident for injuries $25,000 for property damage But what happens when: You total a $75,000 truck? Your policy pays $25,000. The other $50,000 comes after you. You injure two people with medical bills of $300,000? Your policy pays $50,000 total. The rest doesn’t just disappear—it comes after your bank account, wages, and assets. That “cheap” policy didn’t protect you. It just kept you legal. What’s Really at Stake: Your Net Worth When your coverage runs out, the other driver (or their attorney) can: Garnish your wages Go after your savings or retirement accounts Place liens on your home or property Everything you’ve worked hard to build—your net worth—is suddenly on the line because an online quote system cared more about speed and price than about your financial security. There’s a Better Way At Goodman Insurance Solutions, I do things differently. Instead of shoving you into the cheapest option, I: Look at your vehicles, family, and financial picture. Match your coverage to your risk exposure. Explain everything in plain English so you know exactly what you’re paying for. My job isn’t to sell you insurance. My job is to make sure one accident doesn’t undo years of hard work. Imagine Two Futures The Online Route: You save $20/month today… and risk losing your home, wages, and retirement after one serious accident. The Protected Route: You invest a little more in proper coverage… and sleep well at night knowing your net worth and your family’s future are safe. Which story do you want to be living? Take the Next Step Don’t let a flashy online price put your entire net worth at risk. Let’s build a policy that actually protects you. 👉 Feel heard. Get help. No runaround.

If you’ve filed a hail claim recently, you may have looked at your first settlement check and thought, “That’s way too low!” You’re not alone—this is one of the most common points of confusion in property claims. The good news? In most cases, you’re not actually losing money. What you’re seeing is recoverable depreciation at work. What Is Recoverable Depreciation? When an insurance company pays out on a property claim, they don’t usually give you the full replacement cost up front. Instead, they pay in two parts: Actual Cash Value (ACV): This is the first check you receive. It’s the replacement cost minus depreciation (the age and wear of your roof, siding, or other property). Recoverable Depreciation: This is the withheld amount that you can recover once the work is completed and proof (like invoices or completion photos) is submitted. When you add ACV + Recoverable Depreciation, you get the full replacement cost your policy promises. Example Let’s say your roof costs $20,000 to replace. Replacement Cost: $20,000 Depreciation: –$6,000 Deductible: –$2,500 First check (ACV): $11,500 Once the work is done and the bill is turned in, the insurance company sends the withheld $6,000 depreciation back to you. Total payout: $17,500 (your deductible is your responsibility). Why They Do It Insurance companies use this process to make sure the repairs actually get completed. Without it, some people would just cash the first check and leave the damage unrepaired. Recoverable depreciation ensures the funds go toward restoring your property. Key Takeaways The first check you get is not the final settlement. Recoverable depreciation is released after the work is done. Your deductible is the only part you’re truly out of pocket for. If you’re unsure about your settlement paperwork, bring it to us—we’ll walk you through it line by line. ✅ Bottom line: Don’t panic when you see a low first check. You’re likely still getting the full replacement cost—just in two stages.

If you’ve got a detached garage, machine shed, or garden shed in Kansas, you might be wondering if your homeowners policy covers it. Good news: most Kansas home insurance policies automatically include “Other Structures” coverage for buildings that aren’t attached to your home — like garages, sheds, fences, and even some barns. But here’s what trips people up: The limit is usually 10% of your dwelling coverage. If your house is insured for $250,000, that’s $25,000 for all other structures combined. Some farm or hobby buildings may not be covered if they’re used for business or have livestock inside. Roof age and condition matter — older roofs may be settled at Actual Cash Value, not Replacement Cost. If you’ve upgraded your shed, built a bigger shop, or added more buildings, you might need to bump up your coverage. Before the next Kansas windstorm tests your outbuildings, let’s make sure they’re covered. Call or text me at 620-531-0261 and I’ll review it with you.

On the farm, your ATV is more than just a ride—it’s a workhorse. You use it to haul supplies, check fences, attend farm auctions, and maybe even help a neighbor move equipment. But once you leave your property, your standard farm policy may not protect you. That’s where Off-Premise ATV Liability Coverage  comes in. It’s the safeguard that keeps you covered wherever the job takes you. Why Standard Farm Policies Aren’t Enough Many farmers are surprised to learn that their farm insurance only covers ATV use on their own property . If you drive that same ATV down a public road, across a neighbor’s pasture, or into town for an ag event—and something goes wrong—you could be on the hook for: Medical bills if someone gets hurt Repairs if you damage another person’s property Legal fees if you’re sued after an accident How Off-Premise ATV Liability Coverage Protects You 1. Extended Protection Anywhere You Work Covers accidents and liability claims that happen away from your farm, whether you’re delivering hay, helping at a 4-H event, or transporting goods to market. 2. Shields Your Farm’s Assets A single accident could cost thousands. This coverage pays for injury claims, property damage, and even legal defense—so you’re not draining farm savings. 3. Peace of Mind for Community Events From county fairs to cooperative harvest projects, you can participate without worrying that one mishap could jeopardize your financial stability. 4. Custom-Fit for Your Operation Every farm is different. Your independent insurance agent can tailor this coverage to your off-premise activities, ensuring it’s right for your risks. The Bottom Line If your ATV ever leaves your property, you need Off-Premise ATV Liability Coverage. Without it, one accident could mean a lawsuit, unexpected bills, and lost income. At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we help Kansas farmers protect not just their land, but the tools and equipment they depend on every day—wherever they’re used. 📞 Call 620-531-0261  for a farm policy review and to make sure your ATV is covered, on and off the farm.

You work hard to grow healthy crops and protect them from pests and disease. But if chemicals spill, drift, or contaminate neighboring property, the cost to clean up—and the potential lawsuits—could threaten your entire operation. That’s where chemical liability coverage in your farm insurance policy comes in. It’s the safety net that keeps your farm running, even when the unexpected happens. Why Chemical Liability Coverage Matters 1. Financial Protection When Accidents Happen A chemical spill, drift, or contamination can cost thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—in cleanup and remediation. Without chemical liability coverage, those expenses could come straight out of your pocket. This coverage ensures you have the resources to act fast and limit the damage. 2. Shield Against Lawsuits If someone claims your chemical use damaged their crops, property, or health, your farm could face expensive legal fees, settlements, or judgments. Chemical liability coverage protects your assets by covering these costs—so one mistake doesn’t put your farm at risk. 3. Environmental Responsibility Chemical accidents don’t just affect your farm—they can harm soil, water, and wildlife. This coverage helps pay for environmental cleanup and shows your commitment to sustainable farming practices. 4. Risk Management Support Many insurers offering chemical liability also provide tools, training, and best practices for storing, handling, and applying chemicals safely—helping you prevent incidents before they happen. The Bottom Line Farming without chemical liability coverage is like planting without insurance for your most expensive equipment—it’s a gamble that could cost you everything. At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we help Kansas farmers get the right coverage for their unique operation—so you can protect your livelihood, your land, and your legacy. 📞 Call 620-531-0261 today for a free farm insurance review and to discuss adding chemical liability protection to your policy.

You work hard for your money—so why should you pay more for insurance than you have to? At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we believe in giving you the tools to keep more cash in your pocket. One of the easiest ways to do that? Improve your credit score. Here’s why it matters for your insurance costs—and how to start boosting yours today. How Your Credit Score Impacts Insurance Rates Insurance companies don’t just look at your driving record or claims history—they also consider something called an insurance score. This score is partly based on your credit history and helps predict the likelihood of you filing a claim. Higher credit score = lower perceived risk = lower premiums. It’s that simple. Research shows that drivers with higher credit scores tend to file fewer claims, which saves insurers money. Those savings often get passed down to you in the form of lower rates. 3 Quick Ways to Raise Your Credit Score Pay bills on time—every time Even one late payment can drag your score down. Set reminders or use auto-pay to stay on track. Keep balances low Using too much of your available credit can hurt your score. Aim to use less than 30% of your credit limit. Check your credit report regularly Mistakes happen, and errors on your report can cost you. You’re entitled to a free report each year at AnnualCreditReport.com—use it. Why This Matters Beyond Insurance A good credit score doesn’t just lower your insurance premiums—it can also mean better loan approvals, lower interest rates, and even easier approval for rentals. In other words, it’s a financial win-win. Bottom line: The higher your credit score, the more money you can save—on insurance and beyond. At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we’ll help you make sure your credit score works for you, not against you. 📞 Call us at 620-531-0261 for a free policy review and see how your credit score could be helping—or hurting—your rates.

If your business uses a vehicle — whether it’s hauling equipment, delivering goods, or driving to job sites — one accident could derail everything. Without the right protection, you could face repair bills, legal costs, and lost income. At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we help business owners protect what keeps their company moving: their vehicles. The Risks of Going Without Coverage Imagine one of your drivers is making a delivery and rear-ends another car. Suddenly, you’re looking at medical bills, property damage claims, and legal fees — all tied directly to your business. Without a commercial auto policy, you could be paying out-of-pocket. What a Commercial Auto Policy Covers 1. Liability Protection If your vehicle causes injury or property damage, your policy covers legal defense, settlements, and judgments — helping protect your business assets. 2. Protection for Your Vehicles Collision Coverage: Repairs if your vehicle is damaged in an accident. Comprehensive Coverage: Protection from theft, vandalism, hail, or other non-collision events. 3. Business Continuity Some policies help cover rental vehicles or downtime expenses so your business doesn’t grind to a halt after an accident. 4. Legal Compliance In many states — including Kansas — commercial auto coverage may be legally required if your vehicle is used for business purposes. Why Work With an Independent Agent? We shop multiple carriers to find the right coverage at the right price for your specific needs — whether you own one pickup truck or a fleet of service vans. 📞 Call 620-531-0261 today for a free commercial auto review, and keep your business rolling no matter what the road throws at you.

When hail tears through your barn roof or a windstorm shreds your shingles, the last thing you want is an insurance headache. At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we’re not tied to one company — we’re independent. That means we work for you, not the insurance carriers . Why Independence Matters 1. More Choices = Better Coverage We partner with multiple top-rated carriers, so we can shop for the best protection at the best price. You’re never stuck with a “one-size-fits-all” policy. 2. Personalized Service We live and work where you do — from Sublette to Ulysses, Garden City, Liberal, and Dodge City. We know how Kansas weather hits, and we tailor your policy to match your  risks. 3. Expertise You Can Trust Insurance can feel overwhelming. We cut through the jargon, explain your options in plain language, and help you make confident decisions. 4. One Call Handles It All From getting quotes to filing a claim, we handle the details so you can focus on running your farm, home, or business. 5. Cost-Effective Solutions Because we compare rates and coverage from multiple companies, we often find better protection for less money. Real-World Example Last July, Oakley Farms outside Ulysses called us after a sudden windstorm ripped half the roof off their metal barn. Within 24 hours, we were on-site, documented the damage, and filed their claim. By the end of the week, a new roof was ordered — and hay was safely stored before the next storm rolled in. The Bottom Line You shouldn’t have to wonder if your insurance really has your back. An independent agent is your advocate — before, during, and after a claim. 📞 Call 620-531-0261  today for a free policy review and discover how independence can work for you. Why use an independent insurance agent?

You pay for insurance to protect what you’ve built — but lately, you may have noticed your home or farm policy premium creeping up . One big reason? Rising replacement costs . At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we help Kansas homeowners and farmers understand why this is happening — and what you can do to keep your coverage working for you. The Real Reasons Costs Are Climbing 1. Labor Costs Are Rising Wages and benefits for skilled construction workers keep going up. When the people who rebuild your roof or replace your barn are paid more, that cost filters into your insurance rates. 2. Materials Are More Expensive Lumber, steel, concrete — the backbone of any repair — have all seen price swings due to supply shortages and high demand. Even a short disruption can spike costs. 3. Skilled Labor Is Hard to Find A shortage of trained carpenters, roofers, and masons means you’re competing for the pros who can do the job right. Fewer workers = higher prices. 4. Building Codes & Regulations Are Changing If your city or county updates building codes, repairs must meet the new standards — often requiring stronger, safer, and more expensive materials. 5. Inflation Is Playing a Role Across the board, inflation impacts what it costs to replace just about anything — and construction is no exception. 6. Natural Disasters Drive Demand Storms, hail, and wildfires cause sudden surges in repair work, which pushes costs up even further. What This Means for Your Policy Replacement cost is what it would take to rebuild your home or structure today . As that number goes up, your coverage limit and premium may need to adjust. If it doesn’t, you could be left underinsured — which is the last thing you want when disaster strikes. Our Promise to You We monitor replacement cost trends in Southwest Kansas so your coverage stays current. You’ll know exactly what’s covered — and what it will take to rebuild — without guessing or worrying. 📞 Call us today at 620-531-0261  for a replacement cost review. We’ll make sure your policy matches today’s rebuild prices so you’re protected tomorrow. Why are replacement costs increasing?