Hello there! Today’s post from HandymanInsurance.com will explore the world of contractors. We’ll delve into what contractors are, the variety of jobs they undertake, and why it’s crucial for them to have insurance. We’ll also discuss the types of insurance contractors need and how they can get a quote. So, let’s get started on this informative and important topic affecting contractors and the clients who hire them.

What is an Independent Contractor?

An independent contractor is not considered an employee, and as such, they are responsible for handling their taxes, insurance, and benefits. They operate as a separate business entity and are typically engaged to perform a specific task or service for another person or company. The setup provides flexibility and autonomy in how the work is completed, but it also means that independent contractors do not receive the same benefits and protections as employees.

What Types of Jobs are Handled by Independent Contractors?

Independent contractors often excel in specific areas. Contractors handle various jobs, ranging from smaller household projects like renovations and repairs to larger-scale undertakings such as building new homes, commercial buildings, or infrastructure. They are usually hired based on their expertise and experience in their respective fields. Some common types of jobs handled by contractors include electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, painting, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), roofing, tiling, and general construction. Their specialized skills and expertise make them valuable contributors to various projects.

Do Independent Contractors Have to be Licensed?

As an independent contractor, you must know and comply with licensing requirements in your field and location. These requirements are put in place to ensure that contractors have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to provide high-quality services to clients and customers. In many cases, obtaining a license involves passing an exam and meeting specific educational and experience criteria.

By obtaining and maintaining the appropriate license, independent contractors demonstrate their commitment to professionalism and competence in their field. The benefits of being a licensed contractor are credibility and marketability, and it ensures clients and customers work with a qualified professional. Ultimately, complying with licensing regulations helps to uphold industry standards, protect consumers, and foster trust in the independent contracting sector.

What are the Risks of Hiring a Non-License Contractor?

There can be several potential consequences when hiring a non-licensed independent contractor in their respective field to save money. Firstly, by hiring an unlicensed contractor, you risk receiving substandard work or services due to the contractor’s lack of necessary skills, knowledge, and credentials. The lack of skills can result in additional costs and time investment to rectify any mistakes or deficiencies in their work.

If the unlicensed contractor causes any accidents or damages while working on your project, the person who hired them may be liable for any associated costs or legal repercussions. In some regions, hiring an unlicensed contractor can also lead to legal consequences or fines for both the contractor and the party that hired them.

Choosing a licensed independent contractor may involve higher upfront costs, but it assures that the contractor has met the necessary standards and qualifications for their work. A licensed contractor can result in higher quality work, reduced potential liabilities, and greater peace of mind for the hiring party. Hiring a licensed independent contractor is an investment in ensuring your project’s successful and compliant completion.

Tips for Verifying a Contractor’s License and Qualifications

When hiring a contractor, it’s crucial to ensure that they are licensed. There are a few key steps you can take to verify a contractor’s license:

1. Check License Status: When hiring a contractor, it’s crucial to verify their license status through the relevant licensing board or agency in your state. You can do this online through the licensing board’s official website. Checking the contractor’s license status helps ensure they are properly licensed and authorized to perform the work, providing added confidence and peace of mind.

2. Ask for License Number: Request the contractor’s license number and verify it with the appropriate licensing authority. Contractors usually display their contractor numbers on their business cards, websites, or promotional materials.

3. Inquire About Experience and Qualifications: Ask the contractor about their experience, qualifications, and any specialized training they have undergone. A reputable contractor will be forthcoming with this information and may even provide references from previous clients.

4. Request Proof of Insurance: Request proof of insurance from the contractor before they start any work. Proof of insurance is crucial to protect yourself and your property. Ask for documentation of their general liability insurance, which covers any damage to your property, and their workers’ compensation insurance, which provides coverage for any workers injured on the job. It’s important to ensure that the contractor has adequate insurance coverage to avoid potential liabilities.

5. Seek References: When seeking references from a contractor, it’s important to ask for contact information for previous clients who have worked with the contractor on similar projects. Once you have this information, contact these references and ask them about their experience with the contractor. You will want to inquire about the quality of work, whether the contractor adhered to timelines, how they handled any issues that arose, and overall professionalism. References can provide valuable insight into what it might be like to work with the contractor and help you make an informed decision.

By performing these checks and asking these questions, you can mitigate the risks of hiring a contractor and ensure that you work with a licensed and qualified professional.

Do Independent Contractors Need to Have Insurance?

Independent contractors should have various types of insurance to protect themselves and their clients. Here are the main types of insurance benefits that independent contractors should consider:

1. General Liability Insurance: General liability insurance, known as contractor’s general liability insurance, provides coverage for property damage, bodily injury, and personal injury caused by the contractor’s work. General liability includes damage or injury on the client’s property or the contractor’s workplace. Additionally, it covers legal costs in case of a lawsuit related to the contractor’s work, offering financial protection and peace of mind for both the contractor and the client.

2. Professional Liability Insurance: Professional liability insurance, also called errors and omissions insurance, provides essential protection for contractors. Professional liability coverage safeguards contractors from claims of negligence or inadequate work, especially for those who offer professional services or advice. If a client alleges that the contractor’s work did not meet professional standards or resulted in financial loss, this insurance can help cover legal costs and any settlement or judgment. It’s an important safeguard that offers peace of mind for contractors, ensuring that they are financially protected in case of unexpected claims or disputes.

3. Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Workers’ compensation insurance provides important protection for employees injured or ill due to their work. Even if an independent contractor is not required to have workers’ compensation insurance for themselves, it can be a good idea to have it in place to protect any employees they hire. This insurance benefits employees by covering medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs in the event of a work-related injury or illness. By carrying workers’ compensation insurance, independent contractors can ensure that their employees are properly protected and that their business complies with state regulations.

4. Commercial Auto Insurance: Commercial auto insurance is essential for contractors using vehicles for work. It provides vehicle and driver coverage in case of accidents, damage, or other unforeseen incidents. Commercial auto insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind for businesses that rely on vehicles to carry out their operations. Contractors need to ensure they have the right level of coverage to protect their assets and mitigate risks associated with commercial vehicle use.

5. Business Property Insurance: Business Property Insurance is essential for contractors as it covers their valuable tools, equipment, and other property in the event of damage or loss. Business property insurance offers financial protection, ensuring contractors can quickly replace or repair essential items without a significant economic burden.

It’s crucial for independent contractors to carefully consider their specific needs and risks and consult with insurance professionals to determine the most appropriate coverage for their business. Each contractor’s insurance needs may vary based on the nature of their work, the size of their business, and other factors.

Key Considerations for Independent Contractors When Shopping for Insurance

As an independent contractor, shopping for insurance requires careful consideration. Here’s what you should know when looking for insurance:

1. Understand your insurance needs: Understanding your insurance needs is crucial to protect your business and yourself. It’s important to evaluate the specific requirements of your work and the potential risks involved. Understanding your needs involves carefully analyzing the nature of your business, the assets you need to protect, and the coverage level required to mitigate potential liabilities. By identifying and understanding your insurance needs, you can make informed decisions about the coverage type that best safeguards your interests.

2. Research available options: Researching available options for insurance tailored to independent contractors is essential to ensure adequate coverage. Examining insurance companies that specialize in providing coverage for independent contractors is important. Factors to consider during the research process include premium costs, coverage limits, and deductible amounts. By carefully evaluating these factors, independent contractors can select an insurance policy that best suits their individual needs and offers comprehensive protection.

3. Liability coverage: Considering liability coverage is an important step in safeguarding yourself from potential risks associated with your work. Whether you’re a business owner or a professional offering services, general liability insurance can provide protection in case of lawsuits or claims. It’s essential to carefully assess your specific needs and the nature of your work to determine the appropriate level of coverage to mitigate potential financial and legal repercussions.

4. Professional liability insurance: When providing professional services or advice, it’s essential to consider obtaining errors and omissions insurance (E&O) or professional liability insurance. Professional insurance offers coverage in case of claims resulting from errors, negligence, or omissions in the services provided. It can help protect your business and personal assets in the event of a lawsuit or claim alleging financial loss due to your professional services or advice. Professional liability insurance can offer peace of mind and financial protection, making it a valuable investment for professionals in various fields.

5. Health insurance: Health insurance is incredibly important for independent contractors, ensuring they can access adequate medical coverage. It’s essential to explore all available options, including private health insurance plans or marketplace plans, to find the best fit for your individual needs. The right health insurance provides peace of mind and ensures that we can access the medical care we need, should the need arise.

6. Consider business owner’s policy (BOP): When considering a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP), it’s important to note that it can provide a comprehensive insurance package that includes general liability and property insurance. A BOP policy may suit certain independent contractors who want to protect their business assets and guard against liability claims. It’s a convenient way to obtain essential coverage in one package, potentially saving time and money for small business owners.

7. Review the policy terms: When reviewing the policy terms, it’s important to carefully examine the terms, conditions, and exclusions of the insurance policy to ensure it meets your specific needs. Understanding the details of the policy will help you make an informed decision about whether it provides the coverage you require. Take the time to thoroughly review the policy to avoid any misunderstandings or surprises in the future.

8. Seek professional advice: Seeking professional advice from an insurance agent or broker is crucial when navigating the complexities of insurance options. They can provide personalized guidance tailored to your needs, helping you understand the various coverage options and make well-informed decisions. With their expertise, you can ensure that you are adequately protected and that your insurance aligns with your unique circumstances and requirements.

Remember that each independent contractor’s insurance needs may vary, so assessing your unique situation and seeking coverage that best protects your business and personal assets is important.

The Importance of Contractor Licensing and Insurance Protection

In conclusion, understanding the world of contractors and the importance of insurance is crucial for both contractors and their clients. Independent contractors play a significant role in various projects and must have the necessary skills, qualifications, and licensing to provide high-quality services. Clients should prioritize hiring licensed contractors to ensure their projects’ successful and compliant completion and to mitigate potential risks and liabilities.

Verifying a contractor’s license status, asking for their license number, inquiring about their experience and qualifications, and requesting proof of insurance are vital steps before engaging with a contractor. These measures ensure the contractor is reputable, qualified, and properly insured, thereby protecting the client’s interests and investment.

Furthermore, contractors must understand the significance of obtaining the appropriate insurance coverage. Insurance not only safeguards the contractor’s business and assets but also protects in the event of unforeseen circumstances, accidents, or liability claims. With proper insurance, contractors can work confidently, knowing they are covered against potential risks associated with their line of work.

The relationship between contractors and their clients is built on trust, professionalism, and competence. By upholding industry standards, complying with licensing regulations, and obtaining the necessary insurance coverage, both contractors and clients contribute to a safer, more reliable, and higher-quality construction and maintenance industry. It is in all parties’ best interest to prioritize these essential aspects, which ultimately leads to successful projects, satisfied clients, and a thriving contracting sector.

In today’s post on HandymanInsurance.com, we are excited to delve into the various types of insurance essential for any handyman. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting in the industry, having the right insurance coverage is crucial for protecting your business and enhancing your professional image. We will explore the persuasive reasons why obtaining handyman liability insurance, health insurance, commercial auto insurance, and handyman bonds/contractor license bonds can make a significant difference in your career. By understanding and investing in these insurance options, handypersons can demonstrate their commitment to safety, professionalism, and quality service while safeguarding their financial well-being. Let’s delve into the diverse world of handyman insurance and discover the invaluable benefits of each type of coverage.

What is Handyman Liability Insurance?

Handyman liability insurance is not just a recommendation; it’s a vital necessity for anyone in the handyman industry. This essential coverage protects against bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury that may occur during work. Without it, handymen could face significant financial loss in the event of an accident or damage to a client’s property. However, handypersons can demonstrate their commitment to professionalism, safety, and quality work to potential clients with liability insurance. It also provides peace of mind, allowing handypersons to focus on their work without worrying about the possible financial consequences of unforeseen incidents. In the competitive handyman industry, liability insurance can give you a significant advantage over other professionals, making you more confident and successful in your career.

Obtaining Small Handyman Insurance Quotes

When it comes to getting small handyman insurance quotes, you’re not alone. Start by researching insurance providers that offer coverage tailored explicitly to handymen. Many of these companies have online quote tools where you can input your business information to receive a preliminary quote. However, don’t overlook the role of insurance brokers or agents specializing in small business insurance. These professionals can gather information about your handyman business and obtain quotes from multiple insurance companies, leveraging their expertise to help you find the best coverage at the most competitive rates. Their knowledge of the insurance landscape can be invaluable. When obtaining quotes, provide accurate details about your business operations, services, and any employees you may have. A broker or agent will ensure that the quotes you receive accurately reflect the coverage you need. Always take the time to compare quotes and understand the specifics of each policy before making a decision.

Handyman Health Insurance

As a handyman, it’s crucial to have health insurance for several reasons. First and foremost, the nature of the work often involves physical labor and dealing with potentially hazardous tools and equipment. Accidents can happen, and without health insurance, the costs of medical treatment can quickly add up and become a significant financial burden.

Furthermore, being a handyman often means being self-employed or working independently, and being self-employed means no employer provides health insurance coverage. As such, having personal health insurance becomes even more critical for ensuring access to necessary medical care.

Health insurance also plays a crucial role in providing a sense of security and peace of mind. Knowing that you have coverage in case of illness or injury allows you to focus on your work without worrying about the potential financial consequences of medical expenses. This peace of mind is invaluable, allowing you to concentrate on your work and deliver the best service to your clients.

In addition, regular checkups and preventive care are essential for maintaining good health, especially for individuals in physically demanding professions. Health insurance can help cover the costs of these critical preventive services, showing that your well-being is a priority. Health insurance keeps you healthy and ensures you can continue working at your best.

Ultimately, having health insurance is a wise and responsible decision for any handyman. It protects against unexpected medical costs and supports overall well-being, providing a safety net that is invaluable in the short and long term. With health insurance, you can feel secure and confident about your future, knowing that you are prepared for any health-related challenges that may come your way.

What is Commercial Auto Insurance?

Commercial auto insurance is a type of insurance policy that provides coverage for vehicles used for business purposes. This insurance protects businesses from financial losses from accidents or other vehicle-related incidents. Commercial auto insurance typically covers physical damage to the vehicle, liability for bodily injury or property damage to others, medical payments, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. It’s essential for any business that uses vehicles as part of its operations to have commercial auto insurance, as it helps safeguard against potential liabilities and ensures that the company can continue operating smoothly in the event of an accident or damage involving its vehicles.

Handyman Bonds/Contactor License Bonds

Handyman bonds, also known as contractor license bonds, are a type of surety bond that handymen may need to obtain before they can legally operate in certain areas. These bonds serve as a form of protection for the clients and the government by guaranteeing that the handyman will adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards.

If a handyman fails to fulfill their obligations, such as not completing a project as agreed or violating licensing regulations, a client or the government agency can claim against the bond to seek financial compensation. The bond then acts as a form of reimbursement for any monetary losses incurred due to the handyman’s actions.

Overall, handyman bonds are used to assure clients that the handyman will perform their duties ethically and in accordance with the law. They help establish trust and credibility, making it easier for handymen to attract clients and operate their businesses legally and responsibly.

Umbrella Insurance for Handyman

Umbrella handyman insurance, or excess liability insurance, provides additional coverage on top of the primary liability insurance policies. It is helpful for handymen as it extends the coverage limits of their existing liability policies, such as general liability and commercial auto insurance.

For example, suppose a handyman’s general liability insurance covers up to $1 million in damages, but they face a lawsuit that exceeds this amount. In that case, their umbrella insurance can kick in to cover the additional costs, providing an extra layer of protection. This type of insurance is beneficial in safeguarding handymen from catastrophic events and high-cost lawsuits that could threaten their business and personal assets.

Handyman General Liability Insurance

Handyman general liability insurance is a crucial type of coverage for individuals in the handyman industry. It protects against financial losses arising from bodily injury, property damage, or personal injury that may occur during work. This insurance is designed to offer peace of mind to handymen, as it helps cover the costs associated with potential accidents or damages, ensuring that they can focus on their work without worrying about the financial consequences of unforeseen incidents.

General liability insurance covers potential liabilities handymen may face while performing their services. Suppose a client or a third party files a claim against the handyman for bodily injury, property damage, or personal injury. In that case, the insurance can help cover legal defense costs and any settlements or judgments up to the policy limits.

Moreover, having general liability insurance can demonstrate a handyperson’s commitment to professionalism, safety, and quality work to potential clients. It sets a standard of trust and reliability, showing that the handyman is prepared to take responsibility for any unforeseen events. By obtaining this type of insurance, handypersons can gain a competitive advantage over others in the industry and operate confidently, knowing they are adequately protected.

Handyman Product Liability Insurance

Product liability refers to manufacturers, distributors, and sellers’ legal responsibility to compensate individuals harmed by defective products. As a handyman, product liability is crucial in ensuring that your tools or equipment are safe and reliable for yourself and your clients.

Here’s a story that showcases how product liability works:

Meet John, a skilled handyman known for his exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. John takes great pride in his work and always uses high-quality tools to deliver top-notch results to his clients.

One day, John purchased a new power drill from a reputable manufacturer to replace his old, worn-out one. The drill had all the features he needed and was marketed as a durable and safe tool for professional use.

Several weeks later, while working on a project at a client’s home, the new power drill malfunctioned, causing an injury to John’s hand. The faulty drill not only hampered John’s ability to complete the project but also resulted in significant medical expenses and lost income due to his inability to work.

Recognizing that a product defect rather than misuse caused the injury, John sought legal advice and explored his options for recourse. His attorney, well-versed in product liability cases, helped John understand his rights and the process of holding the manufacturer accountable for the defective drill.

With the guidance of his attorney, John filed a product liability claim against the manufacturer, citing the design and manufacturing flaws that led to the malfunction and subsequent injury. The legal team supporting John gathered evidence, including expert testimonies and industry standards, to strengthen the case.

As a result of the product liability claim, the manufacturer acknowledged the deficiencies in the power drill and agreed to a settlement that covered John’s medical expenses, lost income, and additional compensation for the pain and suffering he experienced.

This story illustrates how product liability is a protective mechanism for handymen and consumers. It ensures that manufacturers are held responsible for producing reliable and safe products and provides recourse for individuals who suffer harm due to defects or malfunctions. For handymen like John, product liability reinforces the importance of choosing tools and equipment from reputable sources and holding manufacturers to high safety and quality standards.

Handyman Life Insurance

Handyman life insurance is an essential financial tool for handymen, as it provides a safety net for their families in the event of an unforeseen tragedy. Life insurance can help cover final expenses and outstanding debts and financially support the handyperson’s loved ones. It ensures that the family is taken care of and can maintain their standard of living if the handyperson can no longer provide for them. Additionally, life insurance can bring peace of mind to handypersons, knowing their family’s financial future is secure.

Protecting Your Handyman Business: The Importance of Insurance Coverage

In conclusion, as a handyman, it’s crucial to protect yourself and your business with the right insurance coverage. Handyman liability insurance provides essential protection against unforeseen incidents, while obtaining small handyman insurance quotes through reputable providers or brokers ensures you get the best coverage at competitive rates. Additionally, health insurance is vital for your well-being and peace of mind, especially as a self-employed individual. Lastly, commercial auto insurance and handyman bonds are important considerations to safeguard your business and adhere to legal requirements. By prioritizing the right insurance coverage, you can focus on delivering top-quality service to your clients with confidence and security.

As a resource, HandymanInsurance.com offers valuable information about insurance for handymen, along with tips to help them choose the best coverage for their business needs. HandymanInsurance.com equips handymen with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their insurance options by providing comprehensive insights and practical guidance. Whether it’s understanding the importance of liability coverage, obtaining quotes, or exploring health insurance and other essential policies, HandymanInsurance.com is a beneficial platform for handymen to navigate the complex insurance landscape and secure the protection they need for their businesses.

Finding the Best Insurance Policy — The first step to finding ideal policies is to determine the amount of coverage that is needed; although some motorists may be in need of some pretty extensive amounts of protection, opting not to purchase an adequate amount can end up being a lot more costly in the long run.

For example, if an individual owns a luxury vehicle and decides not to purchase comprehensive and collision, the cost to repair or replace it can be extremely expensive and in some cases the premium to insure it would have been a fraction of what would be needed to cover the loss out of pocket. On the other hand, some pay for this type of coverage on vehicles with a low value which would not be beneficial and may not end up with any compensation after a loss; therefore it is extremely important to understand the coverage needed.

Once the necessary coverage is determined, it is time to shop around to see which company can offer the protection at the most affordable rate. When comparison shopping it is vital to make sure that the same amount of protection is being compared with each company; failure to do so would lead to an ineffective comparison and quotes would be based on different products which would be inconclusive. In addition, never jump on the cheapest rate without looking into the insurer who is offering it; of course it is great to find the best deal, but it is worthwhile to make sure the carrier is reputable and licensed.

Hold on to a few of the most attractive rates and check with the state; for example, the California Department of Insurance will let an inquiring resident know whether or not a company is licensed in the state and if they are in good standing. The best policies come down to much more than price, by understanding what coverage is needed, shopping around and making an insurer is reliable, consumers can get properly insured.

Floridians could benefit from comparing the rates on various auto insurance options that are offered by insurers. By completing a comparison of more extensive protection, motorists may be able to find that being more adequately covered may be affordable and can be very beneficial in the event of a loss.

One such option is to consider purchasing limits above what the state requires, especially if the motorist does not have a health care plan; obtaining personal injury protection at a higher limit can help pay for medical costs for injuries sustained in a traffic accident and considering the cost for medical care, the $10,000 minimum can be used up following a serious injury. The same principal applies to property damage liability; it may only be a small difference in premium to raise these limits, but could be well worth it following a loss.

According to the Florida Department of Financial Services the state does not require motorists to carry Bodily Injury Liability, but Florida’s Financial Responsibility law does require individuals to be financially responsible for bodily injuries in the amounts of $10,000 per person and a maximum of $20,000 per accident.

The state suggests if a driver or vehicle owner does not have this amount in cash reserves, motorists may want to considering adding this coverage to a policy. It could take a long time for premiums to add up these amounts and it would be a lot better of a situation if the insurer were to pay out these amounts rather than the motorist; this will also pay for legal representation if an individual is sued.

Additional optional coverage residents may want to consider are such items as Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist which covers policyholders if they are struck by a driver who does not have adequate insurance, Comprehensive and Collision which pays for physical damage sustained by the insured vehicle, Towing which will cover the cost of a tow if the covered automobile becomes inoperable and Rental Reimbursement to pay for the expenses of a rental car if a policyholder’s vehicle will be in a repair facility or has been stolen. Floridians have many options to choose from and purchasing the policy to cover risks is a good way to protect assets; it is always a good idea to obtain quotes on additional protection to determine what can fit in a budget. Shopping around is free and it may lead to finding more extensive polices at an affordable rate.

Currently, the state requires drivers to carry policies with minimum limits of liability in the amount of $25,000 for bodily injury to one person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident and $15,000 for property damage; this is often abbreviated as 25/50/15. Higher limits may be purchased for an addition premium to further protect assets in the event that expenses arising from an accident that exceeds these amounts.

The majority of individuals who choose to comply with the financial responsibility law do so by purchasing an auto insurance policy from a carrier licensed to do business in the Lone Star State; Texans should be aware that they are a wide variety of insurers to choose from and should shop smart and diligently in order to find affordable coverage to help make it easier to keep policies in effect.

Since the price of automobile coverage can get a bit costly, there are some helpful tips that can consumers can use as they shop for a policy to assist in locating the most inexpensive rates. One tip that motorists will hear over and again from government consumer guides and industry professionals is to comparison shop; comparing as many quotes as possible is the most effective tool an individual has to finding the best deal on vehicle coverage.

In addition, ask about any discount that might be available; some companies offer discounts that others may not and some insurers will offer a higher percentage off premiums for certain discounts than their competitors. It is also a very good idea to get help from the state; the website of the Texas Department of Insurance provides very helpful shopping tips and is a reliable and trustworthy source of information.

Central Contractor Registration (CCR) is the primary registrant database for the U.S. Federal Government. CCR collects, validates, stores, and disseminates data in support of agency acquisition missions, including Federal agency contract and assistance awards. Please note that the term “assistance awards” includes grants, cooperative agreements and other forms of federal assistance. Whether applying for assistance awards, contracts, or other business opportunities, all entities are considered “registrants”.

Both current and potential federal government registrants are required to register in CCR in order to be awarded contracts by the federal government. Registrants are required to complete a one-time registration to provide basic information relevant to procurement and financial transactions. Registrants must update or renew their registration at least once per year to maintain an active status. In addition, entities (private non-profits, educational organizations, state and regional agencies, etc.) that apply for assistance awards from the Federal Government through Grants.gov must now register with CCR as well. However, registration in no way guarantees that a contract or assistance award will be awarded.

CCR validates the registrant information and electronically shares the secure and encrypted data with the federal agencies’ finance offices to facilitate paperless payments through electronic funds transfer (EFT). Additionally, CCR shares the data with federal government procurement and electronic business systems.

Please note that any information provided in your registration may be shared with authorized federal government offices. However, registration does not guarantee business with the federal government.

See for additional information: http://www.mbda.gov/?section_id=4&bucket_id=156&content_id=3676&well=entire_page

Comparing FL Handyman Insurance Online or Off: Every since the concept of insurance began and companies began insuring individuals in exchange for a premium, people would be able to meet with insurers in person and negotiate coverage; in fact for the most part calling insurers on the telephone was not even an option.

Little by little technology began to shorten the distance between two points and have allowed motorists to call companies and obtain quotes to compare from so that they would not have to take the time to drive down to offices only to find out that the product needed was not available or simply was far too expensive and they would have to visit another office to see if something cheaper can be obtained.

Now consumers are a bit spoiled; neither methods mentioned above need to be used to find the best insurer and affordable rates can be found in a fraction of the time online. Practically every insurer offers motorists the ability to obtain a quote online and what is even better is that consumers can use a comparison website which can deliver quotations from a wide variety of companies; by completing one brief form with basic information motorists can have rates to compare from in a matter of minutes and may even be able to purchase the policy right there and then on the website and get insured instantly.

Of course individuals can call or visit the company if they wish to speak to an agent, but nonetheless shopping by way of the Internet can save a bunch of time and some hard earned cash as well. One can even hop online and view the Florida Consumer Guide to Automobile Insurance to brush up on their knowledge regarding auto coverage.

If your business as a Handyman employs any staff (including part-time, trainees or sub-contractors), Employers liability insurance cover is a legal requirement. Employers liability insurance provides protection against your legal liabilities to pay compensation in respect of injury sustained by your employees in the course of your business as a Handyman. The other purpose of workers compensation insurance is to protect employers from potential lawsuits from injured employees.

Employers Liability Insurance for handyman work: This type of insurance would cover payment of legal fees and damages in the event that an employee was injured or killed while doing work for you. Our Handyman Insurance Program gives our policyholder comprehensive coverage for their businesses, and the program is designed for Handymen who: Are hired to do a variety of miscellaneous work that would be found in a residential household environment;.

The handyman must comply with Worker Compensation Insurance Laws and provide payment for employee medical treatment and part of any income lost while recovering from an on the job illness or injury. Workers compensation insurance is an insurance policy carried by businesses that covers the medical costs and a portion of lost wages for an employee who is injured on the job.

Comparing business auto insurance in the Sunshine State should be taken very seriously since the state’s residents pay some of the highest premiums in the country; conducting an effective comparison can be crucial in finding the most affordable policies. One should be sure to take the time to locate as many quotes from as many insurers before making a purchase to ensure that they have located a carrier that can offer the product needed at a rate that is within their budget. This may take a little bit of time, but if a cheap policy is found than the time invested would be well spent.

Motorists have a few ways to compare Florida auto insurance rates and while each one can be just as effective, some methods of comparing quotes can be much more time consuming than others. Individuals have the choice of visiting offices and negotiating terms and prices with agents in person, grabbing the phone book and calling as many companies as they wish until a rate that is reasonable has been found or they could shop around online either by visiting the individual websites of each insurer or using a comparison website which can provide the quotes of numerous carriers in one place. Which ever method a person prefers, it is necessary to compare in order to find the right product and the best deals.

The nation has 8.6 million children who lack public or private health insurance and 1.3 million of them are in California, Families USA, a Washington-based advocate for expanded health access, says in a report based on new census data.

California, the nation’s most populous state, is just behind Texas in the numbered of medically uninsured children, Families USA says, and at 12.5 percent has the nation’s 12th highest rate. Texas is No. 1 at 20.5 percent.

Families USA, confirming previous reports, says that 88.2 percent of uninsured children come from families with at least one working adult. Families without earned income usually qualify for one of the public medical plans such as Medi-Cal. It’s been estimated that more than 6 million of the state’s 38 million residents lack health insurance.

Last year, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger tried and failed to gain legislative approval of a plan to cover virtually all of California’s uninsured residents. The full Families USA report is available here.

If you operate a business out of your home, your Homeowners and Personal Auto insurance will not cover you.  In fact, running a home-based business without the proper coverage could result in cancellation of your Homeowners insurance.  Many home-based business owners believe that their homeowners or renters insurance policy will adequately cover their home-based business.

Just because a business is located in your home doesn’t mean your homeowners insurance policy will cover you. You can buy a homeowners liability endorsement that will protect you in case clients or delivery people get hurt on your premises and sue.  An in-home business policy provides more comprehensive coverage for business equipment and liability than a homeowners policy endorsement.  In-home business policies are available from homeowners insurance companies, which offer business insurance bundled with a standard homeowners policy.

Insuring your homebased business is easier than ever.  Optional Home Business Insurance Coverages  For an extra premium, you can beef up your Home based Business insurance policy by adding: Umbrella Liability protects your business against the costs of catastrophic lawsuits.  Therefore, you may need home based business insurance.

There are a few different home based business insurance options available for you to consider.  If you own a home business, your home based business insurance will be tax deductible.  Therefore, depending on the type of business that you run, you may need a home based business insurance policy. You may want to consider liability insurance for your business if there is a chance that your product may injure someone or if someone could become injured while visiting your home business.

They are the experts and they can point you in the right direction as far as home based business insurance.  Several home-based business owners own their own homes, and presume that their home based business insurance also covers their home-based business activities.  Not only is this not true, but your home based business insurance activities can annulled your home insurance.  While several home based business insurance owners rely on their home insurance to wrap damage, loss and theft of possessions, all home-based businesses should have contents insurance as well to the contents and or possessions insurance offered by the owner’s house insurance.

Here are some common types of business insurance: Business Property Insurance: Coverage against loss or damage to your business property or contents. Business Liability Insurance: Coverage against a claim by others that your business caused them a loss Commercial Auto Insurance: Coverage for vehicles used by your business.  If you produce goods, you may want to look into purchasing product liability insurance.

This goes beyond general liability because it protects you in case your products, once out there in the world, cause injury to customers.  General liability insurance is a type of business insurance that covers any issues that arise concerning you business, such as accidents, injuries and negligence.  If your company manufactures goods, wholesales or retail sales goods, product liability insurance can help protect you in issues concerning the safety of those goods.

There are several types of handyman insurance coverages available.  The type of coverage required depends on the business and state that you operate.  Each business has separate needs.  As you will see, there are many business insurance coverage options available.  This article will provide you with business insurance types and descriptions.

Business owners providing services should consider having professional liability insurance (also known as errors and omissions insurance).  However, homeowners policies only go so far in covering home-based businesses and you may need to purchase additional policies to cover other risks, such as general and professional liability.  A BOP is a package that bundles property and liability insurance together through one affordable premium.

These exposures could include liability arising out of accidents resulting from the premises or the operations of an insured, products sold by the insured, operations completed by the insured, and contractual liability.  The most common types of commercial insurance are property, liability and workers’ compensation.  In general, property insurance covers damages to your business property; liability insurance covers damages to third parties; and workers’ compensation insurance covers on-the-job injuries to your employees.  If someone sues you for personal injuries or property damage, the cost of defending and resolving the suit would be covered by your liability insurance policy.

Malpractice insurance, or professional liability insurance, pays for losses resulting from injuries to third parties when a professional’s conduct falls below the profession’s standard of care.  Then you should consider getting product liability insurance to protect your business from liability resulting from the product’s nonperformance.  Professional liability insurance protects both you and your clients.  “Property and Liability insurance are essential for all small businesses, but Business Interruption, Key People, or Disability insurance can also make the difference between having to close down and being able to carry on.

HandymanInsurance.com started a new blog in late April 2010 to help provide a community forum and discussion for the needs of small business contractors and the handyman construction industry. We hope you will share your experiences – good and bad with us.