Ascend Insurance Agency Palm Desert

07/18/2025

07/01/2025

04/24/2025

Understanding Your Insurance Policy:

An insurance policy is a legal contract between the insurance company (the insurer) and the person(s), business, or entity being insured (the insured). Reading your policy helps you verify that the policy meets your needs and that you understand your and the insurance company’s responsibilities if a loss occurs. Many insureds purchase a policy without understanding what is covered, the exclusions that take away coverage, and the conditions that must be met in order for coverage to apply when a loss occurs. Reading and understanding your entire policy can help you avoid problems and disagreements with your insurance company in the event of a loss.

The Basics of an Insurance Contract:

There are four basic parts to an insurance contract:

Declaration Page
Insuring Agreement
Exclusions
Conditions

It is important to understand that multi-peril policies may have specific exclusions and conditions for each type of coverage, such as collision coverage, medical payment coverage, liability coverage, and so on. You will need to make sure that you read the language for the specific coverage that applies to your loss.

The Declaration Page:

This page is usually the first part of an insurance policy. It identifies who is the insured, what risks or property are covered, the policy limits, and the policy period (i.e. time the policy is in force).

For example, the Declarations Page of an automobile policy will include the description of the vehicle covered (e.g. make/model, VIN number), the name of the person covered, the premium amount, and the deductible (the amount you will have to pay for a claim before an insurer pays its portion of a covered claim).

Similarly, the Declarations Page of a life insurance policy will include the name of the person insured and the face amount of the life insurance policy (e.g. $25,000, $50,000, etc.).

The Insuring Agreement:

This is a summary of the major promises of the insurance company and states what is covered. In the Insuring Agreement, the insurer agrees to do certain things such as paying losses for covered perils, providing certain services, or agreeing to defend the insured in a liability lawsuit. There are two basic forms of an insuring agreement:

Named–perils coverage, under which only those perils specifically listed in the policy are covered. If the peril is not listed, it is not covered.

All–risk coverage, under which all losses are covered except those losses specifically excluded. If the loss is not excluded, then it is covered. Life insurance policies are typically all-risk policies.

The Exclusions:

Exclusions take coverage away from the Insuring Agreement. The three major types of Exclusions are:

Excluded perils or causes of loss
Excluded losses
Excluded property

Typical examples of excluded perils under a homeowners policy are flood, earthquake, and nuclear radiation. A typical example of an excluded loss under an automobile policy is damage due to wear and tear. Examples of excluded property under a homeowners policy are personal property such as an automobile, a pet, or an airplane.

The Conditions:

Conditions are provisions inserted in the policy that qualify or place limitations on the insurer’s promise to pay or perform. If the policy conditions are not met, the insurer can deny the claim. Common conditions in a policy include the requirement to file a proof of loss with the company, to protect property after a loss, and to cooperate during the company’s investigation or defense of a liability lawsuit.

Definitions:

Most policies have a Definitions section, which defines specific terms used in the policy. It may be a stand-alone section or part of another section. In order to understand the terms used in the policy, it is important to read this section.

Endorsements and Riders:

An insurer may change the language or coverage of a policy at the time of the policy renewal. Endorsements and Riders are written provisions that add to, delete, or modify the provisions in the original insurance contract. In most states, the insurer is required to send you a copy of the changes to your policy. It is important that you read all Endorsements or Riders so you understand how your policy has changed and if the policy is still adequate to meet your needs.

Want to Review Your Policy?

To obtain a copy of your insurance policy, please contact your insurance agent or company.

01/28/2025

Job Title: Licensed Property & Casualty Insurance Broker
Location: Palm Desert, California (On-site)
Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday
Compensation: Competitive pay based on experience

About Us:

Ascend Insurance Agency is a family-owned business that has proudly served California for over 20 years. We are dedicated to providing our customers with the best coverage at competitive rates through many top-rated companies.

At Ascend, our one-on-one service approach is our #1 goal. Our objective is to assist clients in identifying their needs and concerns so that we can put together a plan that’s easy to understand and tailored to their specific requirements.

Job Description:

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Licensed Property & Casualty Insurance Broker to join our team in Palm Desert, California. This role focuses heavily on the commercial insurance sector, and we are looking for someone with extensive experience in writing and quoting commercial auto, commercial liability, workers' compensation, as well as home and personal auto insurance policies.

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, are customer-focused, organized, and proficient in various rating systems and insurance carriers' quoting portals, this is an excellent opportunity to grow your career with a well-established agency.

Key Responsibilities:

Specialize in quoting and writing commercial insurance policies, including but not limited to commercial auto, liability, and workers' compensation.

Provide personalized service to clients, helping them identify their needs and concerns to create tailored insurance plans.

Use and manage various rating systems and insurance carriers' quoting portals effectively and efficiently.

Communicate professionally and personably with clients to build and maintain long-term relationships.

Collaborate with team members to ensure seamless customer service and satisfaction.

Adapt quickly to changing circumstances in a fast-paced work environment.

Handle multiple tasks and manage stressful situations calmly and effectively.

Qualifications:

Active California Property & Casualty Insurance License (required).
Proven experience in writing and quoting insurance policies, with an emphasis on commercial lines.

Proficiency in various rating systems and insurance carriers' quoting portals (required).

Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish (heavily encouraged).
Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.

Strong multitasking, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to work well both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

What We Offer:

Competitive compensation based on experience.

A supportive, family-oriented, and professional work environment.

Opportunities for professional growth and development.

The chance to make a meaningful impact by providing customized insurance solutions to our clients.

Note: For questions about benefits, including time off or insurance, feel free to inquire during the application process or interview.

How to Apply:

If you meet the qualifications and are ready to join our team, we’d love to hear from you! Please send your resume and a brief cover letter to [email protected] or call us at 760-333-1914 for more information.

Join Ascend Insurance Agency, where we’ve been dedicated to serving California customers for over two decades by offering the best coverage at competitive rates through a personal, one-on-one approach.

09/02/2024

Does my business need earthquake insurance?
Business insurance Q&A

Though rare in many areas of the country, earthquakes can be highly destructive. Commercial property insurance covers some natural events, such as wind damage, but you must purchase separate coverage if you want protection against earthquakes. This Q&A will help you weigh your risks and determine if you need this type of coverage. In addition, ask your insurance professional if your business should consider adding earthquake insurance.

Frequently asked questions about earthquake insurance

Q. Do I really need earthquake insurance?

A. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, our nation has about 20,000 earthquakes a year—mostly small. That said, since 1900, there have been earthquakes in 39 states, with damage in all 50 states. You may especially want to consider earthquake insurance if your business is located near geological fault lines or in a state prone to quake damage, such as California.

Q. What does commercial earthquake insurance cover?

A. Your business earthquake policy will generally cover damage to your building and to your business property such as your inventory. Depending on the policy, lost business income caused by an earthquake may also be covered. Coverage only begins when damage has exceeded your policy’s deductible—the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Earthquake insurance policies often have high deductibles—ranging from 2 percent to as high as 20 percent of the value of your building, depending on its location, age and condition.

Q. Are there special requirements for qualifying for earthquake insurance?

A. Your business property may have to undergo an inspection and upgrades before you can qualify for earthquake insurance. For instance, before your building can be insured against earthquakes, you may have to have the structure bolted to its foundation. You may also be required to brace chimneys and walls, as well as make other improvements.

https://www.iii.org/article/does-my-business-need-earthquake-insurance

09/02/2024

Does my business need earthquake insurance?
Business insurance Q&A

Though rare in many areas of the country, earthquakes can be highly destructive. Commercial property insurance covers some natural events, such as wind damage, but you must purchase separate coverage if you want protection against earthquakes. This Q&A will help you weigh your risks and determine if you need this type of coverage. In addition, ask your insurance professional if your business should consider adding earthquake insurance.

Frequently asked questions about earthquake insurance

Q. Do I really need earthquake insurance?

A. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, our nation has about 20,000 earthquakes a year—mostly small. That said, since 1900, there have been earthquakes in 39 states, with damage in all 50 states. You may especially want to consider earthquake insurance if your business is located near geological fault lines or in a state prone to quake damage, such as California.

Q. What does commercial earthquake insurance cover?

A. Your business earthquake policy will generally cover damage to your building and to your business property such as your inventory. Depending on the policy, lost business income caused by an earthquake may also be covered. Coverage only begins when damage has exceeded your policy’s deductible—the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Earthquake insurance policies often have high deductibles—ranging from 2 percent to as high as 20 percent of the value of your building, depending on its location, age and condition.

Q. Are there special requirements for qualifying for earthquake insurance?

A. Your business property may have to undergo an inspection and upgrades before you can qualify for earthquake insurance. For instance, before your building can be insured against earthquakes, you may have to have the structure bolted to its foundation. You may also be required to brace chimneys and walls, as well as make other improvements.

Though rare in many areas of the country, earthquakes can be highly destructive. Commercial property insurance covers some natural events, such as wind damage, but you must purchase separate coverage if you want protection against earthquakes. This Q&A will help you weigh your risks and determine if...

09/02/2024

Reasons to purchase permanent life insurance

Unique features of a permanent policy:

​Depending on the policy, you may be able to withdraw some of the money. You also may have these options:

A permanent life policy provides lifelong insurance protection. The policy pays a death benefit if you die tomorrow or if you live to be a hundred. There is also a savings element that will grow on a tax-deferred basis and may become substantial over time. Because of the savings element, premiums are generally higher for permanent than for term insurance. However, the premium in a permanent policy remains the same, while term can go up substantially every time you renew it.

There are a number of different types of permanent insurance policies, such as whole (ordinary) life, universal life, variable life, and variable/universal life. In a permanent policy, the cash value is different from its face value amount. The face amount is the money that will be paid at death. Cash value is the amount of money available to you. There are a number of ways that you can use this cash savings. For instance, you can take a loan against it or you can surrender the policy before you die to collect the accumulated savings.

Unique features of a permanent policy:
You can lock in premiums when you purchase the policy. By purchasing a permanent policy, the premium will not increase as you age or if your health status changes.

The policy will accumulate cash savings.
​Depending on the policy, you may be able to withdraw some of the money. You also may have these options:

Use the cash value to pay premiums. If unexpected expenses occur, you can stop or reduce your premiums. The cash value in the policy can be used toward the premium payment to continue your current insurance protection – providing there is enough money accumulated.

Borrow from the insurance company using the cash value in your life insurance as collateral. Like all loans, you will ultimately need to repay the insurer with interest. Otherwise, the policy may lapse or your beneficiaries will receive a reduced death benefit. However, unlike loans from most financial institutions, the loan is not dependent on credit checks or other restrictions.

A permanent life policy provides lifelong insurance protection. The policy pays a death benefit if you die tomorrow or if you live to be a hundred. There is also a savings element that will grow on a tax-deferred basis and may become substantial over time. Because of the savings element, premiums ar...

07/18/2024

Five insurance mistakes to avoid... (and still save money)

Avoid these common mistakes and you’re on your way to getting the best insurance for your needs and budget.

Avoid these pitfalls when buying auto, home, flood and renters insurance.

1. Insuring a home for its real estate value rather than for the cost of rebuilding.

When real estate prices go down, some homeowners may think they can reduce the amount of insurance on their home. But insurance is designed to cover the cost of rebuilding, not the sales price of the home. You should make sure that you have enough coverage to completely rebuild your home and replace your belongings—no matter what the real estate market is doing.

A better way to save: Raise your deductible. An increase from $500 to $1,000 could save up to 25 percent on your premium payments.

If you live in a disaster-prone area, your insurance policy may have a separate deductible for damage from major disasters, so be sure you take this into account when considering whether to raise your standard homeowners deductible.

2. Selecting an insurance company by price alone.

It is important to choose a company with competitive prices. But be sure the insurer you choose is financially sound and provides good customer service.

A better way to save: Check the financial health of a company with independent rating agencies (some well-known ones: AM Best, Moody's), and ask friends and family members about their experiences with insurers. Select an insurance company that will respond to your needs and handle claims fairly and efficiently.

3. Dropping flood insurance.

Damage from flooding is not covered under standard homeowners and renters insurance policies. Coverage is available from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), as well as from some private insurance companies. You may not be aware you’re at risk for flooding, but keep in mind that 25 percent of all flood losses occur in low-risk areas.

A better way to save: Before purchasing a home, check with the NFIP to determine whether a property is situated in a flood zone; if so, you may want to consider a less risky area. If you are already living in a designated flood zone, look at mitigation efforts that can reduce your risk of flood damage and consider purchasing flood insurance. Additional information on flood insurance can be found at www.FloodSmart.gov.

4. Only purchasing the legally required amount of liability for your car.

The minimum is just that—the least you can get away with by law. So, buying only the minimum amount of liability means you are likely to pay more out-of-pocket later. And if you are sued, those costs can jeopardize your financial well-being.

A better way to save: Consider dropping collision and/or comprehensive coverage on older cars worth less than $1,000. The insurance industry and consumer groups generally recommend a minimum of $100,000 of bodily injury protection per person and $300,000 per accident.

5. Neglecting to buy renters insurance.

A renters insurance policy covers your possessions and additional living expenses if you have to move out due to an insured disaster, such as a fire or hurricane. Equally important, it provides liability protection in the event someone is injured in your home and decides to sue.

A better way to save: Buying several policies with the same insurer, such as renters, auto, and life will generally provide savings.

https://www.iii.org/article/five-insurance-mistakes-avoid-and-still-save-money

07/03/2024

Every year we gather ’round for fireworks and fun, but did you know the 4th of July is considered one of the most dangerous holidays in the United States?

“What we don’t always realize is that the 4th of July has people gathering together for good times and drinking. It’s summertime and they want to be on the water, which gets us into boating accidents,” said Coleman Brown, vice president, loss control, CBIZ Insurance Services.

“Now combine that with fireworks [and their risks]. Plus there is eating, and food safety becomes a big part. It’s hot, so people need to hydrate to avoid dehydration. It’s a lot of risks for one day.”

Fireworks:
We ooh and aah each 4th of July as fireworks light up the night sky. But, the truth is, fireworks are scary things.

People can be killed or injured by these explosives. Burns are most common, while injuring and even losing a hand to premature explosions are a close second. Loud bangs can damage human ears, and pets can find their way to the vet each July 5th with ruptured eardrums.

“People are not used to handling fireworks. They don’t take the time to support a firework with a sand base,” said Brown. He added that about 8,000 to 9,000 individuals each year need some sort of ER treatment for firework-related injuries.

One of the biggest culprits of injury is the least expected: “The metal sparklers we give to kids — if you touch the top of that sparkler, it’s 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. That can easily start a brush fire. If unattended, that could become a big problem.”

Additionally, cars and buildings are not immune to a firework blaze, and entire forests have been known to go up in smoke thanks to a rogue rocket.

Brown estimated underwriters see about $43 million in direct property costs each year from fireworks.

“It’s always advisable for people to go to public displays put on by professionals,” said Brown. But, if others choose to create their own firework magic, “have a bucket of water available. Have a hose available. Create a designated area with minimal combustible materials away from homes, dry leaves and trees,” he said.

For more at-home safety tips, visit the American Pyrotechnics Association.

Drunk Drivers:
The 4th of July is a time for celebration! It’s our nation’s birthday, after all, and for many that means celebrating independence with a toast … or two … or three.

The issue comes in when people decide to drive after their festivities. An estimated 34.3 million people travel by car each 4th. That’s a lot of extra people on the road.

According to Esurance, 40 percent of highway deaths between 2007 and 2011 were caused by drunk driving accidents over the July 4th weekends.

A 2016 4th of July report showed 188 people were killed in drunk driving crashes.

“Ensure that those who decide to drink do not drive an automobile, operate a boat or shoot off fireworks,” Brown said. “Have a designated operator, driver or shooter.”

Drowning Risks:
Summer is known as the time for swimming in pools, lakes and the ocean. This also makes summer the key time for drowning incidents, especially for children.

It only takes a few seconds for the fun in the sun to turn deadly. The USA Swimming Foundation reported that at least 163 children younger than age 15 drowned between Memorial Day 2017 and Labor Day 2017. Nearly 70 percent of the victims were 5 and under.

The USA Swimming Foundation also stated that no child is ever 100 percent water safe — but formal swimming lessons can reduce the likelihood of childhood drowning by 88 percent.

What makes the 4th particularly heinous for swimmers is the extra amount of people in the water. It’s not that lifeguards, or parents for that matter, aren’t attentive; it’s that there is a lot to watch during a 4th of July celebration and a drowning can happen in seconds. The best thing to do is teach basic swimming and water safety to children and never leave a swimmer unattended.

Food Safety:
“Cooking and food safety are very important for a safe and enjoyable holiday,” said Brown.

He gave the examples of coleslaw, potato or macaroni salad, all 4th of July staples.

Every year, these side dishes accompany barbecues across the country. With a mayonnaise base, this particular dish is not safe sitting in the sun, yet that’s where it lives each 4th.

“Never leave out for more than two hours at a time, and keep them on ice,” he warned.

Undercooked meat and food contamination also plague festivities each year.

Salmonella, E. coli and Campylobacter are the top bacteria responsible for causing an estimated 76 million cases of food-borne disease in the U.S. every year, according to the California Department of Public Health.

Grilling Accidents:
Though grilling is a summer activity, the 4th may bring out the worst in your George Foreman.

“Grilling accidents happen when people leave the grill unattended,” said Claudia Cervantes, personal lines claims consultant, Golden Bear. There could be leaks in the propane lines or a buildup of grease, and explosions or fires can occur, she said.

“Failure to clean is a leading cause of fires.”

Cervantes also noted that, every year, fire departments respond to nearly 10,000 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues, which could add up to more than $133 million in direct property damage per year.

Smoke, soot and ash can also be an issue.

“There’s cleaning your property. But smoke and ash can also get inside, into the AC unit and ducts,” Cervantes added.

So here is what you can do to prevent a grill fire:

Check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line for any leaks or blockages
Don’t overfill the propane tank
Wear tighter-fitting clothes around an open grill flame
Don’t add lighter fluid to an already-lit grill
Douse hot coals with plenty of water and stir them to guarantee the fire is out
Grill outdoors; indoor grilling is a slippery slope to carbon monoxide poisoning

Boating Incidents:
The American Boating Association calls the 4th of July “the busiest, and often deadliest time of the boating season.”

Why?

Boating activity increases during the summer months, particularly on the three top holidays — the 4th, Memorial Day and Labor Day. More boats in the water leads to higher rates of accidents. Often, the holidays are the first and only time people enter into the water as a boat captain, too, which places inexperienced drivers in the middle of uncharted waters — literally.

Every year, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offers several tips to stay safe on the 4th, including always wearing a life vest, never mixing alcohol with boating and being aware of the other boats on the water.

By: Autumn Demberger

https://riskandinsurance.com/these-are-the-4th-of-july-claims-underwriters-fear-most/

07/01/2024

We at Ascend Insurance wish you a memorable Fourth of July.

While this holiday provides ample opportunity for fun with family and friends, it is also a wonderful time to honor our nation’s history and reflect on the many freedoms we enjoy as Americans. I invite you to join me this Independence Day in doing just that.

Please note our office will be closed on Thursday, July 4. We will reopen on Friday, July 5, ready to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.

Happy Fourth of July to you and yours!

02/16/2024

We will be closed on Monday the 19th of February due to President's Day. Happy President's Day everyone.