You’ve just had the accident you never wanted. The insurance adjuster calls and says your car is a total loss. The repairs cost more than the car is worth, so the insurance company will cut you a check—and take your vehicle. But what if you’re not ready to let it go? Maybe it’s your first car, maybe you just put new tires on it, or maybe you think you can fix it yourself. Can you buy it back? How Total Loss Works When your car is declared a total loss, the insurance company typically takes possession. From there, they’ll either: Sell it to a salvage yard – where it’s stripped for parts or sold as scrap. Auction it – where individuals or businesses can bid to repair and resell it. How to Repurchase Your Totaled Vehicle In some cases, you can buy your vehicle back directly from your insurance company. Here’s what to know: Ask your adjuster if the company allows buybacks. If they do, the “buyback” price is usually the vehicle’s post-accident salvage value (often less than market value). Company policy and state laws may affect whether you can repurchase it. What Happens After You Buy It Back If you buy your totaled car back: Repairs are on you – and depending on damage, they may cost more than the car is worth. You’ll likely need to pass a state safety inspection before it can be driven again. Your title will probably be branded as “salvage” or “rebuilt,” which can reduce resale value and affect future insurance options. Should You Do It? Buying back a totaled car can make sense if repairs are minor, if it has sentimental value, or if you plan to use it off-road or for parts. But in most cases, your insurance payout is the better financial move. Bottom line: Yes, you can sometimes buy back your totaled vehicle—but it’s not always the best choice. Before deciding, weigh the buyback cost, repair expenses, and the long-term value of the car. If you’re navigating a total loss claim, we’ll walk you through your options and make sure you understand every step before signing anything. I totaled my car. Can I repurchase it from the insurance company?

If your car is damaged or totaled in an accident, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: “How much will my insurance company pay me?” The answer comes down to Actual Cash Value (ACV)  — and understanding it before you need it can save you stress, confusion, and even money. What Is Actual Cash Value (ACV)? ACV is your vehicle’s market value at the time of the loss — not what you paid for it, and not necessarily what you owe on it. Insurance companies calculate ACV by looking at: Year & Model  – Newer vehicles are typically worth more than older ones. Mileage  – Lower miles usually mean higher value. Condition  – A well-maintained car will be valued higher than one with wear, damage, or mechanical issues. Market Trends  – Vehicle values shift constantly based on demand and availability in your area. How Total Loss Decisions Are Made If repairing your vehicle costs more than a certain percentage of its ACV — usually 75% to 85%  — your insurance company will likely declare it a total loss . Example:If your car’s ACV is $10,000 and repairs will cost $8,000, the insurer will probably consider it totaled and issue a payout for the ACV (minus your deductible). Why Knowing ACV Matters Without understanding ACV, you might: Expect a payout higher than what’s realistic. Be surprised by a total loss decision. Struggle to replace your vehicle with the payout you receive. We Help You Understand the Numbers At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we don’t just hand you an ACV number — we walk you through how it’s calculated  and make sure you’re getting the fairest settlement possible. When you work with us, you get:✅ Local market insight  to ensure your car’s value is accurate.✅ Advocacy during claims  so you’re not navigating the process alone.✅ Coverage guidance  so you’re protected before a loss happens. Bottom line:  ACV can work in your favor if you understand it before you’re in a claim situation. Let’s make sure you’re prepared. 📞 Call us today at 620-531-0261  or visit kansasinsuranceagent.com  for a free policy review.

You’ve got a roof over your head—literally—and it’s one of the most important parts of your home. But when Kansas storms roll through, tearing off shingles or denting metal, the big question becomes: Will my homeowner’s insurance actually pay to replace it? At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we help homeowners cut through the fine print so they know exactly what’s covered before the first hailstone hits. Here’s what you need to understand. Two Common Types of Roof Coverage Home insurance policies typically insure your roof in one of two ways: 1. Replacement Cost Coverage (RCV) Pays to replace your damaged roof with new materials of similar kind and quality. Often available if your roof is newer and in good condition. Example: If your 5-year-old roof is totaled in a hailstorm, your insurance pays the full replacement cost (minus your deductible). 2. Actual Cash Value Coverage (ACV) Pays the cost to replace your roof minus  depreciation for age and condition. Common if your roof is older (often 20+ years) or in less-than-perfect shape. Example: If you have a 30-year shingle roof that’s 20 years old, your payout is reduced to reflect only the remaining 10 years of life. Why This Matters If you’ve got RCV coverage, you’re in the best position to get a full replacement when disaster strikes. With ACV, your payout could be much lower—especially if your roof is near the end of its expected life. How to Check Your Policy Grab your declarations page  and look for: Coverage type  for your roof (it may differ from the rest of your home). Any age restrictions  that may trigger ACV instead of RCV. If you’re not sure how to read your policy, we can review it with you in minutes and explain exactly what would happen if you filed a roof claim. The Bottom Line Your roof protects everything you value inside your home. Knowing whether your insurance will pay to replace it—and under what terms—can save you from expensive surprises. Feel heard. Get help. No runaround. At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we’ll make sure you understand your coverage and have the right protection in place before the storm clouds roll in. 📞 620-531-0261  | 🌐 kansasinsuranceagent.com

Mike Goodman here — agency principal at Goodman Insurance Solutions . Today, let’s talk about trailers and how insurance applies when you’re towing one. There are two main questions to answer: If my trailer comes unhooked and causes damage, am I covered? If my trailer is damaged or stolen, will insurance pay for it? If Your Trailer Damages Someone Else’s Property Picture this: you’re driving down Highway 83 in Kansas and your trailer — loaded or unloaded — comes unhooked. It hits another vehicle, injures someone, or damages property. In most cases, if your auto policy is active, liability coverage will extend from the towing vehicle  (the “power unit”) to cover damage caused by the trailer. That means injuries or property damage to others would be paid for under your auto liability coverage. If You Want to Cover the Trailer Itself Liability coverage protects others , but what about your trailer?If you want protection for the trailer itself — for things like: Theft Collision damage Comprehensive losses like hail, animal strikes, or vandalism …you’ll need to schedule the trailer  on your policy. “Scheduling” simply means adding the trailer as its own listed item with a stated value. The premium for this coverage is often small, especially compared to the cost of replacing a trailer out of pocket. Self-Insure or Schedule? Some people choose to self-insure their trailers, meaning they take the risk and pay out of pocket if something happens. Others schedule the trailer for peace of mind, knowing it’s protected no matter what. Bottom Line If your trailer injures someone or damages property while you’re towing it, your auto policy’s liability coverage usually has you covered. But if you want protection for the trailer itself, you’ll need to add it to your policy. Not sure what’s best for you? Call or text 620-531-0261 . At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we’ll walk you through your options so you’re not guessing about your coverage.

Hey, Mike Goodman here — agency principal at Goodman Insurance Solutions. A question I hear all the time is: “What’s the difference between my car’s warranty and my auto insurance policy?” They sound similar, but they’re designed to do two very different jobs. Let’s clear it up. What a Car Warranty Covers A car’s warranty is a manufacturer’s promise to fix or replace certain parts if they fail sooner than expected — usually within a set number of years or miles. A typical warranty might cover: Engine repairs Transmission replacement Heating and cooling systems Electronics and onboard computer systems The key point: warranties protect against mechanical failures and defects, not accidents or outside damage. What Auto Insurance Covers Your auto insurance policy protects you financially if your vehicle is damaged in a covered event or if you cause injury or damage to others. Liability Coverage: Pays for damages or injuries you cause to other people or their property. Comprehensive Coverage: Covers damage from things like hail, deer strikes, theft, vandalism, or a rock cracking your windshield. Collision Coverage: Covers damage to your vehicle from hitting another car or object — even if you’re at fault. What’s Not Covered by Auto Insurance Wear and tear items aren’t covered by auto insurance or comprehensive/collision. That means things like: An engine wearing out over time Transmission failure from age A tire blowout from normal use Electronics failing from wear If it happens due to normal aging, it’s a maintenance issue — not an insurable loss. Bottom Line Think of it this way: Warranty: Protects against manufacturer defects and early failures Insurance: Protects against accidents, theft, weather damage, and liability If you’re ever unsure which applies to your situation, call or text 620-531-0261. At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we’ll walk you through your coverage so you’re never left guessing. Car warranty versus car insurance

Hey there — Mike Goodman here with Goodman Insurance Solutions. One of the questions I get from time to time is: “Can my insurance company cancel my policy?” The short answer: Yes, they can. But there are rules, notice requirements, and common reasons why it happens. Let’s break it down so you know what to watch for. Two Ways a Company Can End Your Policy Cancellation The company sends you a notice saying they will no longer provide coverage starting on a specific date. This could be as soon as 10 days or as long as 30 days, depending on the reason and state law. Non-Renewal Instead of ending coverage mid-term, they let your policy run until its expiration date — but they won’t start a new 6-month or 12-month cycle. Why Does This Happen? Insurance companies, like any other business, have to stay profitable. If an account starts costing them more than they’re comfortable with, they may decide to step away. Some common triggers: A pattern of multiple claims, even small ones, that signal bigger risks ahead Frequent liability losses Repeated traffic violations like speeding or DUI convictions (especially on auto policies) A couple of tickets? Usually no big deal. But a consistent trend of violations or claims can raise red flags. Real-World Example On the auto side, I’ve seen policies non-renewed after a driver racks up several violations within a short period. Even without one “big” accident, the pattern made the company decide they weren’t comfortable staying on that risk. Know Your Rights While companies can cancel or non-renew, they must follow state-specific notice rules in Kansas. That means giving you written notice within a required time frame before the change takes effect. Bottom Line Yes — your insurance company can cancel or non-renew your policy. But it’s rarely out of nowhere. If you see your claims or violations trending in the wrong direction, it’s worth talking to your agent now instead of waiting for a letter in the mail. If you have questions about your policy — whether you’re a current customer or not — call or text 620-531-0261, email Mike@goodmaninsurancesolutions.com, or visit kansasinsuranceagent.com. We’ll help you understand your options and keep your coverage in place. Can the insurance company cancel my policy?

Do I need an umbrella insurance policy? Samuel just bought a brand-new car. Congrats, Samuel — it’s a nice ride. But one day, Samuel runs a stop sign and T-bones a van carrying a family of six. Tragically, they all perish. Samuel survives, barely. He has insurance. In fact, he has exactly what Kansas law requires for auto insurance. But here’s the problem — his state-minimum liability limits won’t even scratch the surface of the financial damages from this accident. Samuel was legal, but he was also greatly underinsured. Why Umbrella Insurance Exists An umbrella policy adds an extra layer of liability protection on top of your existing auto, home, or farm insurance. When your underlying policy limits are “exhausted,” the umbrella kicks in — covering you up to its own much higher limit. Without it, your assets, income, and even your future earnings could be on the hook. Two Ways Samuel Could Have Been Better Protected Increase His Auto Liability Limits Bumping up limits on his auto policy would provide more protection before the umbrella is even needed. Buy an Umbrella Policy Umbrella policies often start at $1 million in coverage and can go up to $20 million. The cost is surprisingly affordable because they require you to already carry a certain amount of coverage on your underlying policy. Local Perspective: Why We Recommend It As a Sublette-based independent insurance agent, I’ve seen firsthand how Kansas families and farmers get blindsided by liability claims — whether it’s a tragic car accident, a farm injury, or even an accident on your property. At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we make sure you understand: Minimum requirements for umbrella eligibility How your auto, home, or farm policy interacts with the umbrella The true cost vs. the risk of going without one Bottom Line Umbrella insurance isn’t about being wealthy — it’s about protecting what you have and what you’ll earn in the future. In Kansas, where liability claims can quickly climb into the millions, an umbrella can be the difference between moving forward or financial ruin. If you’re wondering whether an umbrella policy makes sense for you, call or text 620-531-0261. We’ll run the numbers and help you decide. Mike Goodman, Agent 620-531-0261 Mike@goodmaninsurancesolutions.com Do I need an umbrella insurance policy?

If you’ve ever bought a home, vehicle, or other big-ticket item, you probably dealt with a lienholder  or mortgagee  — even if you didn’t know it at the time. These terms might sound like legal jargon, but they’re actually pretty simple. Let’s break it down. Purchasing Property: Cash or Financing When you buy property — whether it’s a Kansas home , a truck, or a tractor — you either: Pay in full with your own funds, or Borrow money from a financial institution to finance the purchase. Most people put some money down and finance the rest. The financing agreement outlines how many months you’ll pay, the interest rate, and any other conditions. Mortgagee vs. Lienholder Mortgagee:  The lender on a real estate purchase (usually a bank). Example: When you buy a home in Dodge City with a loan from First National Bank, the bank is the mortgagee. Lienholder:  The lender on a vehicle or other non-real estate purchase. Example: If you buy a truck in Garden City and finance it through your credit union, the credit union is the lienholder. What Does This Have to Do With Insurance? When you finance a home or vehicle in Kansas, your lender will require you to carry insurance  until the loan is paid off. The lender must be listed on your policy as the mortgagee  (for homes) or lienholder  (for vehicles). Your insurance company sends proof of insurance to your lender, showing they’re listed. This protects the lender’s investment if your property is damaged, destroyed, or stolen. Once your loan is paid off, the lender is removed from your policy — and you’re no longer required to list them. Why It Matters to You Listing the correct lienholder or mortgagee ensures: Your lender gets proof of insurance automatically. Claims are processed correctly (especially for total losses). You avoid headaches like forced-placed insurance (which is often more expensive and offers less coverage). Bottom Line Lienholders and mortgagees aren’t just legal terms — they’re part of protecting your lender’s investment until your property is truly yours. If you’re financing a home, vehicle, or farm equipment in Kansas and want to make sure your insurance is set up correctly, call or text 620-531-0261 . We’ll make sure your policy meets lender requirements and protects you, too. What is a lienholder/mortgagee? Mike Goodman, Agent 620-531-0261 Mike@goodmaninsurancesolutions.com

How Do Home Insurance Deductibles Work in Kansas? If you own a home in Kansas, your home insurance policy comes with at least one deductible — maybe more. Deductibles aren’t just a random number on your paperwork. They determine how much you pay out of pocket when you file a claim, and they can make a big difference in your premium. Let’s break down the basics so you know exactly what you’re looking at on your policy. Types of Home Insurance Deductibles 1. Flat Deductibles A flat deductible is a set dollar amount, like $500 or $2,500. It stays the same no matter what your home is worth. 2. Percentage Deductibles These are based on a percentage of your Coverage A – Dwelling limit. Example: If your home is insured for $300,000 and you have a 0.75% deductible, your deductible is $2,250. Most Kansas homeowners see two separate deductibles on their policy: All Other Perils (AOP): Covers losses like fire, lightning, theft, vandalism, frozen pipes, or explosions. Wind and Hail: Covers storm damage from—you guessed it—wind and hail. Why Deductibles Exist Deductibles keep your premium lower by sharing part of the risk with you. The higher your deductible, the lower your premium (and vice versa). Real-world example: Roof replacement cost: $15,000 Deductible: $2,500 Insurance payout: $12,500 If damage is less than your deductible — like $750 in wind damage — you’d likely pay out of pocket without filing a claim. Local Kansas Example: How We Help Clients Navigate Claims You’re a Southwest Kansas farmer. A summer hailstorm shreds the roof of your machine shed. You’re wondering, “Now what?” At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we’ve helped neighbors across Sublette, Garden City, Liberal, and Dodge City through this exact situation: Local Expertise: We know how storms hit Haskell, Stevens, and surrounding counties. We build policies that respond to Kansas weather. Personalized Coverage: From your farmhouse roof to livestock shelters, we help you choose deductibles that fit your needs. Fast, Compassionate Claims Support: We walk you through the process, meet adjusters on-site, and help get repairs started quickly. Case in point: Last July, Oakley Farms in Ulysses called after a windstorm ripped half the roof off their barn. Within 24 hours, we were there. By the end of the week, their new roof was ordered, and they were back in business before the next storm. Bottom Line Know your deductibles before you need them. It’s the difference between a smooth claim and an expensive surprise. If you’re not sure how your deductibles work — or if they’re set where they should be — call or text 620-531-0261. We’ll walk you through your policy in plain English and make sure you’re ready for whatever Kansas weather throws your way. How do home insurance deductibles work? Mike Goodman, Agent 620-531-0261 Mike@goodmaninsurancesolutions.com

If you’re a Kansas homeowner or about to become one, you’ve probably heard of homeowner’s insurance. You know it’s meant to protect your house, but the details can get fuzzy — especially when you start digging into what’s actually covered. Let’s break it down in plain English so you know exactly how Kansas homeowner’s insurance works — and why working with an independent insurance agent can save you time, money, and stress. What Is Homeowner’s Insurance? In Kansas, homeowner’s insurance is your financial safety net when bad things happen to your home or belongings. It’s a type of property insurance that covers losses and damages from risks like fire, storms, theft, and more. Most Kansas policies are built around these four main coverages: 1. Dwelling Coverage This is what pays to repair or rebuild your home if damage is caused by a covered peril like fire, windstorm, hail, or certain natural disasters common in Kansas. Example: If a Kansas hailstorm tears through your roof, your dwelling coverage steps in — minus your deductible — to get it fixed or replaced. 2. Personal Property Coverage This covers your stuff — clothes, furniture, electronics, and other personal items — if they’re stolen or damaged by a covered risk. Tip: Take a home inventory. It’s easier to file a claim when you know exactly what you had before a loss. 3. Liability Protection If someone gets hurt on your property and decides to sue, liability coverage helps pay for legal costs and damages. It can also cover you if you damage someone else’s property — for example, if your kid’s baseball smashes a neighbor’s window. 4. Additional Living Expenses (ALE) If a covered loss forces you to live somewhere else while your home is repaired, ALE covers temporary housing and living costs. That means you won’t be out of pocket for rent or hotel stays during repairs. The Independent Insurance Agent Advantage Here’s the part most people overlook: not all homeowner’s policies are created equal — and that’s where an independent insurance agent in Kansas becomes your best asset. Unlike agents who work for one company, an independent agent represents multiple carriers. That means: You get options, not a one-size-fits-all policy. You have someone to explain the fine print so you’re not caught off guard at claim time. You get local expertise — an agent who knows Kansas weather patterns, risks, and coverage gaps that matter here. Bottom line: An independent agent works for you, not the insurance company. Wrapping It Up Homeowner’s insurance doesn’t have to be confusing. If you understand the main coverages and work with a local Kansas independent insurance agent, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your home — and your wallet — are protected when life throws you a curveball. If you want me to review your current policy and make sure you’re getting the best value for your needs, call or text 620-531-0261.

In times of economic hardship, financial planning gains heightened importance. While many acknowledge the need for life insurance, the focus often centers on merely having a policy rather than ensuring comprehensive protection. An overlooked yet crucial aspect is income replacement, a cornerstone of life insurance providing a safety net for loved ones in the event of your untimely demise. The Economic Landscape: With growing economic uncertainties, families increasingly recognize the need for a robust financial safety net. In the face of job insecurity, market fluctuations, and unforeseen crises, a life insurance policy surpassing basic payouts becomes paramount. Income replacement within a well-structured life insurance plan ensures not only financial security but also the ability to maintain a standard of living amidst unexpected challenges. Understanding Income Replacement: Life insurance policies featuring income replacement replace the deceased policyholder's income for a specified period. This provision helps bridge the financial gap left by losing the primary earner, offering surviving family members a lifeline during a challenging transition. The payout from an income replacement policy proves instrumental in covering daily living expenses, mortgage payments, education costs, and other essential financial obligations. The Pitfall of Insufficient Coverage: While any life insurance policy is positive, inadequate coverage can leave families vulnerable during tough economic times. A minimalistic approach may not sustain a family's financial well-being in the long run. Opting for a policy with income replacement ensures loved ones are not burdened with financial strain, facilitating navigation through turbulent economic waters with greater ease. Customizing Your Coverage: To shield your family from economic uncertainties, it is crucial to customize life insurance coverage. Collaborate with your insurance advisor to assess your family's financial needs, considering living expenses, outstanding debts, and future obligations. Tailoring your policy to include income replacement ensures loved ones have the necessary financial support to weather challenging times without compromising their quality of life. Compelling Conclusion: Securing your family's future transcends a basic life insurance policy in this era of economic volatility. The emphasis should be on comprehensive coverage, incorporating income replacement as a financial lifeline for loved ones when they need it most. By prioritizing the importance of income replacement in your life insurance plan, you are not merely safeguarding your family's financial stability; you are providing them the unshakable peace of mind to navigate the uncertainties of the future with unwavering confidence.

Recently, homeowners and business owners have been facing significant pressure from insurance companies to raise their wind and hail deductibles. This trend, driven by the increasing frequency and severity of wind and hail-related claims, presents a challenging landscape for policyholders. At Goodman Insurance Solutions, we understand the complexities of this issue and are committed to providing our clients with insightful information and strategies to navigate these changes effectively. Understanding the Pressure: Rising Claims and Costs: The primary reason for this pressure from insurance companies is the noticeable increase in the number and cost of claims related to wind and hail damage. Climate change and urban expansion into more vulnerable areas have exacerbated the risks, leading insurers to reevaluate risk management strategies. Insurance Company Tactics: Insurance providers adjust deductibles to mitigate risk exposure. Higher deductibles mean that policyholders bear a larger portion of the cost in the event of damage, which can significantly impact your financial planning. Responding to Increased Deductibles: Assessing Your Risk: Understanding your property's specific risk of wind and hail damage is crucial. Factors like location, building materials, and the age of the structure play a significant role in determining risk. Exploring Insurance Options: We advise exploring various insurance options at Goodman Insurance Solutions. Switching providers or adjusting other policy aspects can sometimes offset the increased deductible costs. Preventive Measures: Investing in preventive measures can be a cost-effective way to reduce risk. This can include fortifying roofs, installing impact-resistant windows, and regular property maintenance. Negotiating with Insurers: We often assist our clients in negotiating with their insurance providers. Understanding your policy thoroughly and discussing your specific needs with your insurer can sometimes lead to more favorable terms. Financial Planning: Adjusting your financial plan to accommodate higher deductibles is essential. This may involve setting aside funds for this purpose or revising your emergency fund strategy. Increasing wind and hail deductibles pose a significant challenge for property owners. However, it is possible to manage these changes effectively with a strategic approach and the support of experienced professionals like those at Goodman Insurance Solutions. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized advice and solutions to ensure our clients are well-prepared to face these and other insurance challenges.