Insurance is undergoing significant changes that make 2026 an important year to get your coverage right. So, working with a knowledgeable insurance agency staff can mean the difference between being caught off guard and being comprehensively protected when you need it most.

Next year, health insurance premiums are projected to rise substantially, with Medicare Part B premiums increasing 10% and the individual market seeing rate hikes. These increases also affect employer-sponsored plans, so it’s essential to review your coverage options before the new year begins.

According to Stretch Dollar, the landscape is more complex with major carrier exits, changing subsidy structures, and rising out-of-pocket maximums. This underscores the importance of having an experienced insurance partner who can advise on your behalf and identify the best solutions for your unique situation. ***

Property and casualty insurance markets are also changing. Climate-related events, inflation's impact on replacement costs, and changing risk profiles contribute to a dynamic environment where yesterday's coverage may not be adequate for tomorrow's challenges. The right insurance agency helps you understand these trends and adjust your protection accordingly.

Buying insurance and partnering with an insurance agency are not the same. When you purchase a policy online or through a call center, you're engaging in a transaction. When you work with a dedicated insurance agency, you're building a relationship with advisors who understand your evolving needs and are invested in your long-term protection.

A quality insurance agency serves as your advocate in a complex marketplace. They take time to understand your family dynamics, business operations, assets, and risk tolerance. This comprehensive understanding allows them to recommend coverage that truly fits, rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions. 

So, should you increase your liability limits? Do you need additional coverage for a teen driver? Has your business grown in ways that require expanded commercial insurance? Are you adequately protected against cyber risks? The right insurance partner can answer these questions with confidence because they've taken the time to know you.

Many people have clearer schedules during the holiday season, making it an ideal time for thorough insurance reviews. Additionally, addressing coverage questions now means you'll enter 2026 with peace of mind rather than uncertainty.

It allows you to coordinate insurance decisions with other year-end financial planning activities. Whether you're maximizing contributions to health savings accounts, reviewing your overall financial picture, or making business decisions that affect your risk profile, integrating insurance planning into these conversations ensures a holistic approach to protection.

For businesses, especially, the turn of the year often coincides with benefit renewal periods and strategic planning sessions. Your insurance agency assists you in addressing employee benefits, commercial coverage, and risk management strategies in a coordinated manner that supports your broader business objectives.

Not all insurance agencies offer the same level of service or expertise. As you consider partnerships for 2026, look for agencies that demonstrate a genuine commitment to client relationships. The best agencies offer comprehensive coverage options across multiple lines of insurance, allowing you to consolidate your protection under one roof with advisors who understand how your various policies work together.

Experience matters, particularly in navigating the changes ahead. Look for agencies with proven track records of helping clients through market transitions and evolving circumstances. The right partner will communicate with you about changes that affect your coverage, rather than waiting for you to call with questions.

Accessibility is another factor. When you need to file a claim or have an urgent question, you want to reach knowledgeable people who recognize your name and understand your situation. Local agencies often excel in this area, combining community connection with expertise and resources.

As we move into the final weeks of 2025, find out if you have the right coverage and the right partner to ensure that protection remains relevant and comprehensive. The changes coming in 2026 make this year particularly important for getting these relationships right.

Starting the new year with confidence in your insurance coverage brings immeasurable peace of mind. Whether you're protecting your family's health, your home and vehicles, your business operations, or your financial future, having expert guidance makes a difference. The investments you make in proper coverage today protect everything you've worked to build and everything you hope to achieve.

Don't wait until you're facing a gap in coverage or navigating complex insurance changes on your own. The team at Lindquist Insurance is ready to help you evaluate your current coverage, understand the opportunities and challenges ahead, and build a comprehensive protection strategy for 2026 and beyond.

Whether you need individual and family coverage, business insurance, or guidance across multiple insurance lines, partnering with experienced professionals who prioritize your needs makes all the difference. Contact us at Lindquist Insurance today to schedule a comprehensive insurance review and start the New Year with the confidence that comes from knowing you're truly protected. 

*** Visit the Stretch Dollar website for more information.