Blog Layout

Beneficiaries under Life Insurance

Sep 08, 2022

There are two key distinctions to be aware of when selecting one or more life insurance beneficiaries: per capita and per stirpes.
The estate of the deceased is known as intestate when a person passes away without leaving a will. In this scenario, the state will assume management of the estate and make the decision on the beneficiaries. The assets of the estate will be distributed to the deceased’s legal heirs in accordance with the laws of intestacy. Although life insurance preparation is not the topic of this blog, having a will is always advised. The will should be written and executed by a competent individual. 

Per Capita
The grantor (you) specifies that only the named beneficiary will receive that portion of the estate by using the term “per capita.” For illustration, suppose your will names your three siblings Susan, David, and Ronald as the beneficiaries. You want the estate to be divided equally among the three. Each sibling will receive a third of the estate if they are all still living. But suppose David, your brother, passes away before you do.

Then 50% of your estate will then go to Ronald and Susan.

Per Stirpes
According to Stirpes – In the same example as earlier, you continue to list your three siblings David, Ronald, and Susan as beneficiaries in your will. You want the estate to be divided equally among the three. Each sibling will receive a third of the estate if they are all still living. Let’s imagine once more that David, your brother, passes away before you do.

His successors will automatically receive a third of his share (such as his children).

When organizing your will, understanding the distinction between Per Capita and Per Stirpes inheritance is crucial. Make sure to select the method that best meets your and your family’s needs.

Disclaimer regarding law and technology: The advice offered here is not legal advice. When given, statements or suggestions are deemed to be effective and valid because they are based on our experience in risk control, mitigation, and transfer. A trained attorney should analyze all legal or contractual terms, including any comments made in a legal setting.

The post Beneficiaries under Life Insurance appeared first on Tully Ins..

16 Apr, 2024
When the unexpected strikes your home, whether it’s from a storm, fire, or other calamities, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. But here at Tully Insurance Agency, we believe dealing with property damage shouldn’t add to your stress. Our priority is to guide you through the recovery process in a way that’s clear, simple, and, most importantly, stress-free. Here's how you can manage the situation with confidence, ensuring your safety and smooth sailing through the insurance claims process. Prioritize Safety First The immediate aftermath of property damage is a critical time. Your first step should always be to ensure the safety of everyone involved. If the situation demands, don't hesitate to evacuate and contact emergency services for issues like gas leaks or structural damage. Remember, objects can be replaced—people can’t. Reach Out to Us Once you've ensured everyone's safety, the next step is to contact us at Tully Insurance Agency. The sooner you reach out, the quicker we can provide the assistance you need. We’ll help you understand if and when to start the claim process, guiding you every step of the way. Documenting every interaction, from the date to the name of the insurance representative you speak with, is crucial for a smooth claim process. Document Everything Before any cleanup or repair efforts, take thorough photographs or videos of the damage. This visual evidence is invaluable for your insurance claim. Also, compile a detailed inventory of damaged or lost items, including their estimated value. This documentation is crucial in ensuring that you're adequately compensated for your losses. Prevent Further Damage Taking steps to prevent further damage is key. This might mean covering a leaky roof with a tarp or turning off the water to prevent flooding. However, it’s important to avoid making permanent repairs or throwing away damaged items until you've consulted with us. These actions are essential to not only protect your property but also ensure your claim is not jeopardized. Keep Track of Expenses If you make temporary repairs or need to find alternative accommodations, keep every receipt and invoice. These records are important for reimbursement under your insurance policy. They paint a clear picture of the impact the damage has had on your living situation and finances. Be Proactive and Cautious with Contractors Hiring reputable contractors is a crucial step in the recovery process. Obtain multiple estimates to ensure you're getting fair prices for clean-up, removal, or restoration services. However, be cautious—unfortunately, some may try to take advantage of your situation. It’s important to choose contractors with a solid reputation and to avoid paying for services upfront. When you do hire, clearly discuss what items should be preserved to prevent accidental loss of valuable or sentimental items. Let Tully Insurance Agency Be Your Guide At Tully Insurance Agency, we understand that dealing with property damage can be a trying time. That's why we're committed to making the insurance claim process as seamless and stress-free as possible. From the moment you reach out to us, we're here to support you, offering clear guidance and professional advice every step of the way. If you've experienced property damage or just want to be prepared for any eventuality, contact us. Let us help you navigate the challenges with ease and confidence, turning a potentially overwhelming situation into a manageable one. Your peace of mind is our priority.
13 Mar, 2024
In the ever-evolving landscape of life's uncertainties, having a safety net is not just a comfort—it's a necessity. This is where umbrella insurance steps in, offering a layer of protection that goes beyond what your standard policies cover. At Tully Insurance Agency, we understand the importance of safeguarding what matters most to you. Through this post, we aim to demystify umbrella insurance and show you how it can be an essential part of your safety net, all at a surprisingly low cost. What is Personal Umbrella Insurance? Imagine you're carrying an umbrella. On a typical day, it might seem unnecessary, but when a storm hits, you're grateful for the protection it provides. Umbrella insurance works much the same way. It's an extra layer of liability coverage that kicks in when the limits of your existing home, auto, or other personal insurance policies are reached. Think of it as your financial umbrella, ready to protect you from the downpour of claims and legal fees that can arise from unforeseen events. The Importance of Being Protected In today's litigious society, the risk of facing a lawsuit is higher than ever. Whether it's an accident on your property, a serious car collision, or an incident involving your pet, the costs associated with these events can quickly escalate beyond the limits of your primary insurance policies. Without adequate coverage, your assets, savings, and even future earnings could be at risk. Umbrella insurance provides that extra layer of security, ensuring that you're prepared for life's storms, no matter how severe. The Cost-Effective Solution for Peace of Mind One of the most compelling aspects of umbrella insurance is its affordability. Given the extensive coverage it offers, many are surprised to learn how cost-effective it can be. For just a small additional premium, you can secure an umbrella policy that extends your liability coverage by millions of dollars. Considering the financial and emotional cost of facing a lawsuit without adequate protection, it's an investment in peace of mind that's well worth making. Why Tully Insurance Agency? At Tully Insurance Agency, we're more than just a provider; we're your partner in protection. Our team of experts takes the time to understand your unique needs, ensuring that you have the right coverage in place for every aspect of your life. We believe in transparent, honest communication and are here to guide you through the ins and outs of umbrella insurance, helping you make an informed decision about your safety net. Take Action Today Don't wait for the storm to hit before you think about your umbrella. Contact Tully Insurance Agency today to learn more about how umbrella insurance can safeguard you and your family from life's unpredictable downpours. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions, provide personalized advice, and help you secure the coverage you need for peace of mind in any weather. Let us be your shelter from the storm.
15 Feb, 2024
Today, we're diving into a topic that often puzzles many: the difference between term life and whole life insurance. If you've ever found yourself scratching your head over this, you're in good company. Let's break it down in a way that's as straightforward as our conversations across the fence with a neighbor. Term Life and Whole Life: The Basics Imagine insurance as a safety net for your family, but one that comes in different shapes and sizes. Term life insurance is like a net that's there for a specific period – say, 10, 20, or 30 years. If you happen to leave us during this period, your family gets a predetermined sum. However, if you outlive this term, the net disappears, leaving no financial benefits behind. On the other side, whole life insurance is a net that stays with you for your entire journey, as long as you keep up with the premiums. It's a bit more intricate because it not only offers a death benefit but also grows a cash value over time, tax-free. This cash can be borrowed against, surrendered for cash, or left to accumulate, offering a living benefit in addition to the peace of mind of lifelong coverage. Decoding the Differences The main distinctions between term and whole life insurance boil down to three aspects: duration, cash value, and cost. Duration: Term insurance is for a set period, while whole insurance accompanies you for life. Cash Value: A unique feature of whole life insurance, allowing it to serve as an investment with dependable returns, thanks to its tax benefits. Cost: Term life is generally more wallet-friendly. For instance, a healthy 30-year-old might pay $358 per year for a $500,000 term policy, versus $4,308 for a comparable whole life policy. Which One Is Right for You? The choice between term and whole life insurance often hinges on cost and the appeal of whole life's living benefits. It's a significant decision, one that can feel daunting without the right guidance. That's where we come in. At Tully Insurance Agency, we're more than just agents; we're your neighbors here in East Texas, ready to help you navigate these decisions with the same ease and understanding as if we were chatting over a cup of coffee on your porch. Let's Chat About Your Life Insurance Needs Choosing the right life insurance shouldn't be a journey you take alone. If you're feeling overwhelmed or simply have questions, we're here for you. Why not schedule a consultation or meeting with us? We can explore your unique situation together and find the coverage that best suits you and your family's needs. Remember, taking care of your family's future is a profound act of love, and understanding your insurance options is the first step. Let's take that step together. Reach out to us today, and let's ensure your safety net is securely in place.
21 Mar, 2023
A Look Back to 2022 Unfortunately, just like everything else, home and auto premiums were on the rise in 2022.  A Look Ahead to 2023 While the Federal Reserve is trying hard to curb inflation’s impact, insurance experts expect little relief for home and auto insurance consumers in 2023. Here are a few early trends […] The post A Look Back to 2022 appeared first on Tully Ins..
28 Feb, 2023
The unfortunate truth is that in today’s quarrelsome society, every business owner should guard themselves against possible lawsuits. General liability insurance does just that. To assess your level of risk, ask yourself these questions: If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, your business is at a high-risk for claims involving injuries or property […] The post General Liability appeared first on Tully Ins..
01 Sep, 2022
For first-time home buyers, this is a fun moment. The time is right to buy a house!Buying a new house is an essential milestone, and beginning your life in a place you can call home can be thrilling. Because there are so many different tasks to complete during the house buying process, it may also […] The post Tips for First-Time Home Buyers on Insurance appeared first on Tully Ins..
19 Aug, 2022
When getting life insurance, choose the policy’s duration. Life insurance: how long do I need it for? Term life insurance is cheap and short-term. Permanent life insurance costs more but protects you for life. What’s the best term life insurance length?Unlike permanent life insurance, term life won’t cover your entire life. You choose the term […] The post How long do I need life insurance for? appeared first on Tully Ins..
05 Aug, 2022
In life, anything can happen. Obviously, you are well aware of this. But have you given all the dangers you currently confront any thought? distracted motorists people who reveal others’ dirty laundry on social media. Daily dangers include those associated with teen drivers, carpools, pets, gatherings, and occasionally even your maid. Additionally, our society is […] The post Why Umbrella Insurance is Important appeared first on Tully Ins..
27 Jul, 2022
A simple homeowners policy can be inadequate occasionally. It is crucial to keep your insurance coverage current as your profession develops and your income rises. This saves you money by preventing costly coverage gaps and limits the amount of money you would have to pay out of pocket in the event of a claim. You need […] The post Why a Standard Homeowners Policy isn’t Always Sufficient appeared first on Tully Ins..
Share by: