INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS OF SOUTH DAKOTA

MARCH 2013

FARM AND SMALL CONFERENCECHAMBERLAIN, SD

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2013 OFFICERSPRESIDENT

Kathy JohnsonFirst Western Insurance

Rapid City SD

PRESIDENT-ELECTGerrit Juffer

Juffer Inc.Wagner SD

VICE PRESIDENTSteve Walker

First Madison InsuranceMadison SD

SECRETARY-TREASURERAnnette Conway

Western Dakota InsurorsRapid City, SD

PAST PRESIDENTDale Heesch

Dakota Ins AgencyBaltic SD

IIABA STATE NAT’L DIRECTORGary Joyce

Howalt-McDowell Ins. Inc.Sioux Falls SD

2013 DIRECTORSDISTRICT # 1

Jesse KonoldKey Insurance Inc.

Mobridge, SD

DISTRICT # 5Janet Noteboom

The Insurance CenterWinner, SD

DISTRICT # 2Mindy Huntington

Fischer Rounds & Assoc.Watertown SD

DISTRICT # 6Pat Tollefson

Insurance PlusAberdeen SD

DISTRICT # 3Steve Walker

First Madison InsuranceMadison SD

DISTRICT # 7Annette Conway

Western Dakota InsurorsSturgis, SD

DISTRICT # 4Chad Dubisar

Boen & AssociatesSioux Falls SD

DISTRICT # 8Dan Maguire

Black Hills Agency IncRapid City SD

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENTJerry Diamond

IIASDPierre SD

INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS OF SOUTH DAKOTA

AT UNITED FIRE GROUP . . .

Independent agents are the backbone of our insurance business. So, when you talk, we listen. Your requests have prompted us to provide real-time technologies for your convenience. We know you have better things to do with your time than perform tedious data entry. That’s why we’re using the latest technology to provide you with real-time access to your customers’ account information on ufgAgent.com.

Transformation Station and Transact Now™ make real-time inquiry available for:

• Policy • Billing • Claims • Loss runs

Renewals, endorsements, new business, cancellations, reinstate ments—automatically downloaded into your agency management system with updates downloaded nightly. Contact our United Fire marketing team at 800-828-2705 to learn more about these real-time technologies. Go ahead . . .we’re listening!

United Fire GroupCedar Rapids, Iowa www.ufgAgent.comFollow us on Facebook!

®

UNITED FIRE AGENT RON HAMMERBERG The Executive Corner

Jerry Diamond, Exec VP

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SESSION IS OVER!

The 2013 South Dakota Legislative Session is “In The Books!” This was a very busy and challenging time for the IIASD staff and some of our members alike. We were following 23 bills this year, opposing some and supporting others. You may call it luck but we had a 100% success in either defeating or passing bills. This was all done with the help of staff, lobbyists, IIASD member agents, and relationships developed with Senators and Representatives.

We had 2 major accomplishments this session. 1) The passing of Senate Bill 139, which requires insurance sold through the public health care exchange to be placed through a licensed agent and commissions paid to be the same inside and outside of the exchange. This bill is an attempt to protect the viability of the health insurance agent as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act goes into effect on January 1, 2014. 2) Defeat of House Bill 1142, was our biggest challenge as this legislation was disguised being in the best interest of the consumer. The bill was actually defeated late in the night prior to the vote. We had numerous IIASD member agents making phone calls to their local Senators explaining what this bill would do to everyone’s health care cost including groups such as schools and the government. The list of agents who assisted is too long to name - they jumped in and helped to get this defeated. I do want to mention two agents that were diligent and were even calling me well into the evening to get more information and wanting to know where we stood. Joe Gittings of Philip and Chuck Mehlbrech of Salem were just devoted to getting this bill killed. You may not believe this, but in my opinion, I know these agents were personally responsible for getting three Senators the necessary information to get them to vote against HB1142. Thanks guys. This truly what team work is all about.I wanted to touch on 2 other items we need to do in the future if we are going to be successful in helping our legislators make good decisions on future legislation. 1.Agents in all voting districts need to stay informed on issues both in Washington and in South Dakota. We proved to the Legislators that we will be steadfast and knowledgeable regarding legislation that affects our industry and our insured’s and we will contact them to give them our opinion on the issues. Please be part of this interaction. 2.Secondly, please give to InsurPac (your national political action group) and SD IPAC (your State Pac ).

Funds from these Pacs are donated to good candidates running for office. Please also note we give to both Democrat and Republican candidates. We do not represent any one party, we are a bipartisan nonprofit professional association.

Have a great spring and thanks to all the agents that took the time to make a difference.

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E&O EDGE – Carolyn Hofer, E&O Administrator

Good File Documentation:Does Your Agency Have It?

What Should and Should Not be Included inCustomer Files?Imagine one of your customers’ files projected up on a big screen in a court room for all to see. Would you feel comfortable that the file would provide a clear and understandable timeline of all of the interactions with the customer? Would it cover the Who, What, Why, When and How? Documentation should provide a road map of daily activities backed up by signed applications, checklists and proposals identifying the coverage that was accepted and rejected. Agents generally do not lose E&O cases because of too much documentation. Are all employees following standard documentation practices for all customers, all of the time? And when was the last time random files were reviewed for verification? What Should Files Include? - The Do’s: - All communications with customer including in-person discussions, phone calls, faxes, texts and electronic communications - Any discussion of coverages and exclusions should be documented – Obtain customer signatures on forms acknowledging declinations- E&O coverage checklists serve as solid documentation- Prior year’s coverage checklist sent to customer at renewal to inquire if any changes can be used as documentation- Written confirmation of insured’s desired limits- Verification of policy delivery from agency to insured- Transmittal letters reminding insured to read policy- All endorsements documented with activity log- Documentation that all claims were reported - Documentation should be clear, concise, consistent with dates and times - clear to all staff- Daily activity logs, copies of change orders, premium adjustments, premium audits, applications, declaration and policy forms- Documentation should include unalterable date/time stamp- Object should be to recreate transaction in complete detail of step-by-step process used to serve customer- Document correspondence with carriers

What Should Files Not Include – The Don’ts:

-Do not include comments about a claim such as attorney client privileged information) or the merits of the claims, or your opinion as to whether or not there is coverage-Resist the urge to go to bat for your customer when a claim is denied by the carrier-Just the facts – personal comments should not be included in customer file-Do not put E&O claim information into the file of the customer involved.

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Division of InsuranceNews and Views

/ / / /

Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. and its affiliates, Mayfield Village, OH. Auto insurance prices and products are different when purchased directly from Progressive or through independent agents/brokers. Not available in all states. Market positions from Highline Data’s 2007 written premium data, NAIC 2008 market share data, and 2008 Millward Brown & Harris Interactive survey data. 10A00065.A11 (08/10)

Whether your customers drive it, ride it, or boat it. We can insure it.HELPING YOUR CUSTOMERS FIND THE RIGHT POLICY HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER. Partner with a leader. It’s no secret why drivers use independent agents. You offer quality service, and a convenience second to none. But Progressive can help too. Because Progressive is not only a leader in auto insurance, but also truck, boat, motorcycle and RV. Plus, drivers who switch to Progressive save an average of $550 on their auto insurance. So no matter what you’re helping your customers insure, together — we can help them insure it for less.

The 2013 legislative session was a great success for the Department of Labor and Regulation Division of Insurance and IIASD. The Division and IIASD were able to collaboratively engage the legislators on legislation of mutual interest. IIASD is to be congratulated on its leadership role in the passage of SB139. This important piece of legislation helps carve out a continuing role for agents in the new health care environment that we will be facing in 2014. IIASD was also instrumental in working with the Division and other members of the health insurance industry to defeat a harmful piece of legislation (HB1142) that would have mandated a very costly ‘any willing provider’ requirement on health insurers.

The Division of Insurance sponsored a number of bills, all of which were ultimately passed by the legislature. The following is a synopsis of each of the Division bills.

HB1051 was a critical bill that amended our standards relating to hazardous financial condition of insurers. The Division needed to adopt the most recent NAIC standards so as to maintain its financial accreditation. Maintaining accreditation allows the Division to be the sole examiner of our domestic insurers rather than subject those insurers to costly financial examinations by other states.

HB1052 revised the application and renewal process for third party administrators (TPAs). The process will revise the TPA li-censing process to be more in line with how other licensees and registrants are currently being handled by the Division.

HB1054 repeals the director’s authority to promulgate rules as found in SDCL 58-4-1. This does not mean that the Director will no longer be able to promulgate administrative rules as there is authority for rules in other areas of the law. This repealed section has been found to be inadequate as legal authority for administrative rules. In other words, the statute did not serve any realistic purpose.

HB1061 revises South Dakota law dealing with captive insurers. Prior to this legislation, only pure or group captives were allowed to be formed in South Dakota. This legislation expands captive laws to also allow the formation of trust captives as well as special purpose and sponsored captive insurance companies. This legislation will enable additional captives to domicile in South Dakota.

SB61 for the first time addresses how consultants may conduct business on a fee basis. It requires anyone who acts as an insurance consultant to hold an insurance agent license. This will not be a separate license for those who have an insurance agent license. It also provides that fees or commissions can be collected, but not both from the same customer for the same policy. Fees can only be collected if a written agreement is entered into with the customer.

SB62 corrects two loopholes that were found in the Division’s statutory authority. Under prior law, the Director only had authority over insurance laws found in Title 58. Given there are insurance laws that are outside of Title 58, this legislation provided for administrative action for insurance related laws outside Title 58.

On the rare occasion when an insurer’s certificate of authority is revoked, remaining policyholders were without any protection. This legislation amended the law to give the Director authority to require the policies be moved to a licensed insurer if the policyholders’ health safety or welfare was imperiled.

SB67 amends the health maintenance organization (HMO) chapter. While the bill is quite lengthy, it essentially accomplishes three things. First, the Department of Health is being removed as a co-regulator of HMOs leaving the Division as the sole regulator of HMOs. Second, the bill repeals duplicative and conflicting statutes with respect to managed care requirements. Finally, the chapter has been updated to include the revisions contained in the latest version of the NAIC model.

The Division of Insurance is very pleased with the tremendous effort put forth by IIASD this legislative session. Without IIASD’s leadership and hard work, the positive results that were obtained this legislative session would never have happened. The Division faces a number of challenges ahead and looks forward to our continued cooperative relationship to help guide us through these difficult times.

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Kayla’s Technology Advice

Driving Under the Influence of Text Messages

By: Kayla LongbrakeAdministrative Coordinator

GreatAmerican Crop.com

Other insurance companies can’t touch our iPAD app!

Our Crop agents can write, sign and submit coverage from the field. Can you?

Great American Insurance Group is an equal opportunity provider. 301 E. Fourth Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Drivers beware. The results of a recent study show just how many people are texting while driving. According to researchers Mary Madden and Amanda Lenhart, from the Pew Research Center, one in four of American teens say they have texted while driving and those are just the teens who will admit it. Another 48% of teens say that they have been a passenger while the driver has been texting. Whether you drive a Ford F-150 or a Volkswagen Bug, defense driving may not be enough if the road is chalk full of texting drivers. In 2008, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that almost 6,000 fatalities and over half a million injuries were due to accidents caused by drivers who were distracted. The study shows a direct relationship between the distraction caused by texting and the probability of an accident occurring. So far, 28 states have caught on to this danger and have banned drivers from texting while operating a vehicle. The study found that reaction times for those who texted while driving were 35 percent worse than when they drove without any distractions at all. When driving while intoxicated, the reaction time was only 12 percent worse than when the driver was sober and driving without any texting distractions. Research conducted by the Transport Research Laboratory found that there was a significant decrease in ability to maintain a safe driving distance between vehicles while texting and steering control dropped by 91 percent compared to driving without distraction. The study’s commissioner concluded that texting while driving is one of the most dangerous things a driver could do while behind the wheel of a car.

The Pew Research Center reported that their study was based on the findings of a telephone survey on teens' and parents' use of mobile phones and 9 focus groups conducted in 4 U.S. cities between June and October 2009. The teens they surveyed were between the ages of 12 and 18. The actual results of the study were based on data from telephone interviews conducted by Princeton Survey Research International. 800 teens were sampled and their subsequent answers were used to determine the rate at which teen's text while driving. The numbers derived from the study were compared to the number of accidents that are caused by distractions, specifically texting.

In Utah texting while driving is illegal. Many other states have laws against texting while driving or are considering implementing these laws into their system. Whether your state has a law against texting, like Utah, or not, consider putting your phone away while you are behind the wheel. Many Utah drivers understand the risks of texting while driving and are slowly becoming less distracted drivers. Whether you drive a Toyota or a Ford, be sure to put your phone away and focus on the road. Being focused can and does save lives.

Article By: Lindsey Christiansen

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IIASD - FARM AND SMALL TOWN CONFERENCE SEMINARS

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“ Don’t let clients compromise on data compromise coverage.”

An incident of data compromise can have a negative impact on your clients’ credibility and profits. You can help protect them by adding EMC’s data compromise coverage to their insurance program. It’s just one of the many reasons policyholders Count on EMC®.

Tanya Wentzel, Des Moines Branch Marketing Manager

Omaha Branch: 800.338.9735 | Home Office: Des Moines, IA www.emcins.com© Copyright Employers Mutual Casualty Company 2013 All rights reserved

Cross-Sell Strategy #7DATA COMPROMISE COVERAGE

Expected NARAB II Introduction in House & Senate

March 12, 2013 should mark a major date in the Big I’s efforts to reform and streamline nonresident agent icensing as NARAB II is expected to be introduced in both the House and Senate. Similar to last year, the House sponsors are Insurance Subcommittee Chairman Randy Neugebauer (R-TX) and Rep. David Scott (D-GA) and the Senate sponsors are Insurance Subcommittee Chairman Jon Tester (D-MT) and Ranking Member Mike Johanns (R-NE). As you can see, we have the chairmen of the insurance subcommittee from both chambers as the primary sponsors of the bill (and the ranking member in the Senate), which is very rare for insurance bills. The introduction in both chambers on the same day by these leaders on insurance matters in Congress marks a major milestone, and we are very appreciative of their efforts. Over the past several weeks we have been hard at work gathering original cosponsors for NARAB II in both the House and Senate, and at this time have approximately 40 bipartisan cosponsors in the House and about 10 in the Senate.

The news, however, only gets better – we also expect a Senate Banking Committee hearing on NARAB II next Tuesday afternoon (March 19th) where the Big “I” will testify in strong support of the legislation. As you know, in the past it has been more difficult to get the Senate to focus on the legislation so a Senate hearing this soon after introduction is a positive sign indeed.

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Farm & Small Town – Crops ---- Trucks --- Golf Carts and Health!!

We are committed to providing employers a stable, long-term product with professional service and expertise.the promise to investigate and pay compensable claimsand get injured employees back to work is our #1 Goal.We can improve employers’ work comp costs in variousways including:

n Stay at WORk/REtuRn tO WORk PROGRaM DEVELOPMEnt

n LOSS PREVEntiOn anD tRaininGn COSt COntainMEnt PROGRaMSn MyRaSSM OnLinE EMPLOyER RESOuRCE ManaGERn LOCaL CLaiMS ManaGEMEnt anD CaSE ManaGEMEnt

Work with us!There is a difference!

www.rascompanies.com800.732.1486

Richard JohnsonPresident and CEO

If you missed Farm & Small Town last month, you missed the opportunity to learn about a wide variety of insurance topics. Nearly 100 agents and company partners participatedin the two-day event which highlighted the Spring Crop update with Doug Hagel and Cindy Cruea from Risk Management Administration in Montana and the Healthcare Reform update provided by Melissa Klemann and Josh Anderson from the Division ofInsurance on Wednesday afternoon. I must admit that the agents coming out of the Healthcare Reform seminar looked a little “shell shocked”. I guess the Crop Insurance agents are used to dealing with Federal regulations by this time!

Jason Glodt and Rob Skjonsberg, from GSG Strategies enlightened the group on what was happening at our State Legislature. These two capable lobbyists who assisted us with the critical bills that we faced this year.

Bob Fulwider presented a great seminar on Farm Truck Transportation coverage and we delved into all areas of farm transportation coverage including use of golf carts, trailers, hauling equipment, transporting grain for hire, etc.

See pictures we have from our event on page 7

Thank you to all of our Company Partners for making it possible for us to host this annual conference.

Insuring the Midlands Since 1891

Les Hileman, CPCU, AICVice President of Agencies

800-742-7433lhileman@fmne.com

PROVIDING INSURANCE FOR 97 YEARS:

Personal & Commercial Automobile

Farmowners/Ranchowners

Umbrella Liability

Homeowners & Mobilehome

Fire & Allied

Lines

Personal & General Liability

Contact Mel Juran 605-775-2636

Agent & Customer Service

Oriented

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR 2013

April 16th-20thLegislative Conference

Washington, DC

June 3rd-6thE & O Seminars

Rapid City, Pierre, Aberdeen, Sioux Falls

June 18th-19thRiver Days/Walleye Classic

Pierre,SD

August 22ndFall Crop Seminar

Pierre, SD

October 6th-8thBoard Meeting & Annual Convention

Sioux Falls, SD

November 13th-14thBoard Retreat

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RELAX.WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK.

www.acuity.com

facebook.com/acuitywow

FOR ALLTHATMATTERS

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Northern States Agency, a Managing General Agency & Wholesale Broker for over 55 years, providing a wide range of commercial insurance:

General Liability Property Garage Commercial Auto Excess Auto Workers Compensation

Our underwriters average over 10 years experience with NSASame day or next day response on submissionsGreat Service, Great Products, Great People

2145 Ford Parkway, Suite 202 St. Paul, MN 55116

P: 800-328-0828 • F: 651-646-1971 www.nsa-mga.com

We are known for transportation, BUT… Did you know we have a FULL HOUSE?

Inland Marine & Cargo Umbrella & Excess Professional Liability Miscellaneous E & O Directors & Officers

Your TOTAL Solutions Provider

RELAX.WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK.

www.acuity.com

facebook.com/acuitywow

FOR ALLTHATMATTERS

IS OBAMACARE READY?

Jim Donelon the president of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners has stated that Obamacare should be postponed due to many inconstancies and problem of not being ready to implement the Federal Health Care System. Donelon said “ it is his calling card, signature issue, and to rush it into implementation before it’s ready would not be in his overall best interest.”

Donelon is the Insurance Commissioner of Louisiana also said he has not seen any sign of a delay. Time will tell when everything kicks into full gear on October 1, 2013 when they start to sign people up for the program..

OBAMACARE

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www.iiaba.net/Flood

Just a guppy

when it comes to selling flood?

Don’t be shy - Big “I” Flood is here to help.There’s a lot to understand when it comes to flood insurance. We admit it! From changing flood zones to determining the best level of protection for our client, there is a lot to navigate. So even though you’re a big fish when it comes to selling other coverages, flood can make you feel like a guppy! But don’t let this prevent you from offering flood coverage to your clients. We’re here to help you understand and sell flood.

Big “I” Flood provides:ACCESS - In, Above & Outside of the NFIP!EDUCATION - Classroom CE or the new Flood Learning Center on VUADVOCACY - Representation on Capitol Hill & NFIP advisory committees

Learn more at www.iiaba.net/Flood, or contact Big “I” Flood Program Manager Linda Mackey at linda.mackey@iiaba.net or (800) 221-7917. Let us explain how we operate in, above, and outside the NFIP!

SEVEN MILLION WILL LOSE INSURANCE UNDER OBAMA HEALTH LAW

According to the Congressional Budget Office President Obama’s health care law will push 7 million people out of their job-based insurance coverage- nearly twice the previous estimate. CBO said that this year’s tax cuts have changed the incentives for businesses and made it less attractive to pay for insurance, meaning fewer will decide to do so. Instead, they’ll choose to pay a penalty to the government, totaling $13 billion in higher fee over the next decade.

But the non-partisan agency expects fewer people to have to pay individual penalties to the IRS than it earlier projects, because of a better method for calculat-ing incomes that found more people will be exempt.

Overall, the new health provisions are expected to cost the government $1.165 trillion over the next decade — the same as last year’s projection.

We partner with our agents to help employers control the risingcosts of managing a workforce while protecting profitability. Wehave a proven history of solid performance throughout SouthDakota and continually develop new ways to overcome the difficult issues inherent to workers’ compensation. We have ateam approach to deliver exceptional service.

OFFICES IN SOUTH DAKOTA AND MINNESOTA

You’re local, we’re local; let’s work together.

Nationwide Strength. Midwest Values.

Workers’ Compensation is Our Primary Focus.It is what we do, and who we are.

At RAS,

1NO.

WORK COMPWriter in SD

800.732.1486 www.rascompanies.com

Commercial | Personal | Professional | Brokerage | Binding | Risk Management Services

P E R S O N A L I N S U R A N C E

When it comes to placing personal insurance for high-net-worth clients, your success is our success.

Grow your business by partnering with Burns & Wilcox. By working with our Elite Client Solutions team, you do not have to turn away clients: We have the products to cover all their needs. Our high-net-worth specialists have the expertise to create personalized solutions. Plus, our unrivaled access to markets allows us to create solutions with speed and diligence. Making personal insurance even more personal is what Burns & Wilcox does best as the largest independent wholesale broker.

Minneapolis, Minnesota | 612.564.1880 | toll free 800.328.1693fax 612.564.1881 | minneapolis.burnsandwilcox.com

32199_BURNS_MN1_IIASD_Personal_APPROVED.indd 1 1/10/13 10:11 AM

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“Insuring Homes, Farms, Businesses and Autos”

“A Personable Company Keeping You on Course’’

www.nstarco.com1-800-622-5230

Box 48 Cottonwood, Minnesota 56229

Rated “A+ Superior”

Offered Exclusively Through Independent Agents

Dues Deductibility:Dues to the Independent Insurance Agents of

South Dakota are not deductible as a charitable contribution but may be deductible as an ordinary

and necessary business expense.

For the Fiscal Year of 2012

77.71% is deductible as a business expense for your taxes.

22.29% is not deductible for taxes because that is the percentage that National uses for Lobbying.

If you have any questions please call 703-706-5456.

Commercial | Personal | Professional | Brokerage | Binding | Risk Management Services

P E R S O N A L I N S U R A N C E

When it comes to placing personal insurance for high-net-worth clients, your success is our success.

Grow your business by partnering with Burns & Wilcox. By working with our Elite Client Solutions team, you do not have to turn away clients: We have the products to cover all their needs. Our high-net-worth specialists have the expertise to create personalized solutions. Plus, our unrivaled access to markets allows us to create solutions with speed and diligence. Making personal insurance even more personal is what Burns & Wilcox does best as the largest independent wholesale broker.

Minneapolis, Minnesota | 612.564.1880 | toll free 800.328.1693fax 612.564.1881 | minneapolis.burnsandwilcox.com

32199_BURNS_MN1_IIASD_Personal_APPROVED.indd 1 1/10/13 10:11 AM

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Scobie Group 1501 42nd St, Suite 100

West Des Moines, IA 1-800-475-1000 www.fwins.com

Scobie Group 14748 West Center Rd, Suite 202

Omaha, NE 1-800-825-4855 www.fwins.com

Sentry Knows TruckingSentry understands trucking is your number one priority. That’s why we constantly review and enhance our coverages to provide you with the insurance protection you need.

Some of the important coverages we offer include:

• Unlimited towing coverage

• Pollution liability

• Unladen liability

• Enhanced deductible options

• Non-trucking liability

• Blanket additional insured endorsement

• Cargo pollution cleanup

• Accident travel coverage

• Workers’ compensation coverage

Learn more about the products and services Sentry provides. Call today.

Property and casualty coverages are underwritten by a member of the Sentry Insurance Group, Stevens Point, WI. For a complete listing of companies, visit sentry.com. Policies, coverages, benefits and discounts are not available in all states. See policy for complete coverage details.

688225 05/26/11

Ringwalt & Liesche

Tired of waiting for the market to change?

Send your submissions to: RL@nationalindemnity.comP: 800-708-7448 • F: 402-916-3333 • www.Ringwalt.com

At Ringwalt & Liesche, we’re not waiting around. We’re proud to be an agency that can offer stability regardless of market conditions. Check out our website at Ringwalt.com to learn more, or just give us a call - we’d love to hear from you! • Commercial Auto

• Garage Liability

• General Liability

• Commercial Property

• Workers’ Comp

• Motor Truck Cargo

• Prize Indemnification

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What is SD I-PAC?SD I-PAC is the Independent Agents Political Action Committee. SD I-PAC is not affiliated with any political group. It is a voluntary, non-profit, unincorporated committee established by the independent insurance agents of South Dakota. Its purpose is to contribute to the election campaigns of selected candidates for the South Dakota Legislature and Constitutional offices.

Why was SD I-PAC created?SD I-PAC was organized to develop more political weight behind the independent agent’s voice in South Dakota. All state legislators affect the private insurance system regardless of their district.

What is the relationship between SD I-PAC and the Independent Insurance Agents of SD?SD I-PAC functions independently of IIASD, however, the impetus for organizing SD I-Pac came from independent insurance agent members.

Who will select the candidates for financial support?The steering committee of SD I-PAC. Candidates will be selected on the basis of their support of the private enterprise system of insurance. Other criteria will be their need for funds and their knowledge of the insurance industry. Monies expended by the organization will be available for review by any participating member on request and is reported to the IIASD Board of Directors. Also, information can be obtained from the Campaign Reporting Division of the South Dakota Secretary of State’s office.

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NEW MEMBERS CORNER:

Meet new members of our AssociationWe look forward to providing services to:

Associate Members:

Midwest Insurance Services, LLCAlexandria, SD

Principal- Doug Guericke

Join us in welcoming them to IIASD!

Not sure where to turn for Commercial Auto insurance?

Let the insurance experts at E&L show you the way.

www.ericksonlarseninc.com

Maple Grove, MN 800-442-3168

Fargo, ND 800-284-0965

Madison, WI 888-249-6050

www.nwgf.com INSURANCE FOR: Homeowners Farmowners Modular Homeowners Personal Auto Farm Property Dwelling Property Mobile Homes Excess Liability Farm and Personal Liability Classic Vehicle Semi-Truck

Governor Dauggard Signing Senate Bill 139

Governor Dauggard Signing House Bill 1151

The IIASD Staff and Members were invited to view the signing of Senate Bill 139. Among the staff were Carolyn Hofer and Jerry Diamond. Agents in the back were Jesse Konold, Lonnie McKittreck and Warren Graber.

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The Division of Insurance is seeking an Assistant Director to ensure only financially sound insurance companies are permitted to operate in the State by monitoring financial condition and statutory compliance of insurers doing business in the State of South Dakota. The Assistant Director will also make recommendations to the Director of Insurance on remedial enforcement actions for marginal companies to protect policyholders against financial loss. The Assistant Director will interpret, enforce and provide technical advice relating to applicable statutes, rules and regulations. The successful incumbent will also supervise a small staff to include an Assistant Chief Examiner, Financial Statement Analysts and administrative staff. Required qualifications to apply are knowledge of GAAP and statutory accounting principles and practices, and knowledge of the insurance industry; must have the ability to evaluate data and reach conclusions and communicate results; must be able to understand and analyze insurance company financial statements and direct certified financial examiners in the conduct of comprehensive insurance company financial audits. CPA or CFE is preferred.

Location: Pierre, SDSalary Range: $65,000 negotiable depending on experience

Please send application materials to : Susan Isaacson 500 E Capitol Pierre, SD 57501

HELP WANTED: Assistant Director, Financial Solvency

Department of Labor and Regulation

Pre-Licensing Class Announcement

IIASD and A.D. Banker of the Dakotas Have Partnered

We are excited to announce that IIASD and A.D. Banker of the Dakota have partnered to provide insurance and securi-ties licensing preparation classes and materials at a 15% IIASD Member Discount. A.D. Banker offers Exam Prep classes each month in Sioux Falls and quarterly classes in Rapid City.

Class schedules are listed at: www.adbanker.com/dakotas

Self-study and online study options for Exam Prep are also available. Materials and classroom instruction have been very successful with an average of 95% of students taking their license exam passing on the first try!Sandy Kost is the Owner/Managing Director of A.D. Bank-ers of the Dakotas and has worked in the insurance and financial services industry since 1988. She has worked with insurance agents, investment reps, agencies and banks in SD, ND, NE, IA, MN and WI. She has provided training on various products and topics.To register for a class or to order materials, go to:www.adbanker.com/dakotasCall: 605-271-4440 or 877-317-3087. Be sure to use the IIASD Promo/Discount Code to receive your 15% Member Discount. Promo Code: 1594626

PO Box 89846 Sioux Falls, SD 57109-9846

P. 605.361.5705 or 866.440.1840E. beth.dobbs@insurancealt.com

WHOLESALE ACCESS toFirst Dakota Indemnity and Dakota Truck Underwriters,known as the Dakota Group. The DakotaGroup is the largest writers of workers’compenation business in South Dakotaand a leading writer in the Midwest.

Contractors

Healthcare

Hospitality

Manufacturing

Retail

providing workers’ compensation solutions

IIASD 2011 in color FINAL_Layout 1 10/27/2011 3:22 PM Page 1

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Austin Mutual Insurance Company’s rich tradition and strong South Dakota presence set us apart from other property/casualty carriers.

As the newest affiliate of super regional The Main Street America Group, our two companies are committed to providing you with commercial and personal lines, as well as fidelity and surety bond, products that are competitive in the marketplace.

The Right Mix

Need More information? Call (800) 328-4628 or Visit www.msagroup.com

www.msagroup.com

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STeAdY ANd True

No company understands the insurance needs of

truckers more than Truckers Insurance Associates

— created by truckers for truckers. And for 60 years,

Truckers Insurance has remained solely focused on

transportation industry insurance. So whether your

clients include a single owner-operator or a full-fledged

fleet, Truckers Insurance will deliver the right coverage at

the right price. Even more, as trucking specialists, we’re

ready to respond rapidly when needs arise. That’s service

you can count on. That’s putting know-how to work.

That’s Truckers Insurance. Call your Truckers Insurance

account manager at 800.652.9515 for a quote today. WE DELIVER MORE

www.truckers-insurance.com 800.652.9515

driven

New Branch Office in Rapid City, SD Bruce Eleeson John Keffeler

Milo Schindler, Auto Appr Ph: 605-791-5565

Assignments: claims@claimsassoc.com

We commit ourselves to providing you with the highest quality claims and case management services available in our industry. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to serving your needs. Please visit our website for a directory of our staff, services, and coverage area.

Jeff Jares, AIC AIM President

Adjusters

Nancy Almendinger SCLA SDWCS Jennifer Andrisen Selzler, Mgr. SCLA AIC CSRP SDWCS

Bill Blackman AIC Lynn Bren SCLA AIC Ron Burmood MBA AIC Kay Greve AIC, INS Dave Johnston SCLA Jerry Matthiesen AIC Chad Moore Wendi Peterson AIC Kimberly Rausch SDWCS Dave Sendelbach CPCU AIC Karl Weber SCLA AIC Tim Wieker SCLA AIC HCRI-R Amy Kvernmo Christopher W. Madsen J.D. Erin Williams SCLA Justine Frank WCLS

Case Managers Donna Passick RN CCM Kelly Rud RN BA LNCC Deb Whipple RN BA CCM Brenda Whiting RN CCM

Lori Schaefbauer RN BSN CCM

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FRAUD CONVICTIONS

LEGISLATION

Mark Duane Sheehan said he injured his left shoulder while operating heavy machinery at Riverside Sand & Gravel. The Helena, Montana-area man began receiving $1,252 in workers’ comp money for bi-weekly temporary total disability from Montana State Fund. River-side later called the fund, concerned that Sheehan seemed unmotivated to return to work. Soon before his claimed injury, Sheehan had complained to co-workers that his work cut into his time as a trapping guide. A game warden later confirmed that Sheehan had harvested four bobcats despite claiming the painful injury. Video surveillance by the fund later showed him working at a construction site despite complaining of ongoing pain to his doctor. A jury needed all of 45 minutes to convict Sheehan. He could serve 10 years in jail when sentenced in April.

Noodle’s hot streak has ended. The Los Angeles fire fighter claimed he was badly hurt on the job and needed several surgeries. But Raphael “Noodle” Davis collected $30,000 in workers’ comp money while competing in professional mixed martial arts bouts. He compiled a 6-1 record during that span. “Just finished running 2.5 miles in 16:44 min. Not to [sic] bad for an old guy!” he tweeted to some workout buddies. Davis began competing in 2006 and took part in tournaments with imposing names such as Cage of Fire and Strength and Honor Championship. Prosecutors KOed him in the courtroom where most opponents failed in the ring. Noodle earlier reached a plea deal for 200 hours of community service and repayment of the comp money. The judge tacked on three years of probation and reduced his sentence from a felony to a misdemeanor. Noodle says it was a misunderstanding about what activities he was allowed to pursue while on comp leave.

Probation or prison for bilking insurers out of more than $470,000? Federal prosecutors want prison for Denver-area contractor Arthur Griggs, who owned Disaster Restoration. The company served as general contractor for repairing homes and businesses damaged by water, fire, and natural disasters. They used subcontractors to complete the work and then billed insurers. But Disaster Restoration told the subs to inflate bills then filed claims for those higher prices. Prosecutors want 78 months for Griggs and five years for his COO Charles Homer Sharp. The latter sought probation with this watery excuse: His conduct, “while criminal, occurred in the broader context of running a legitimate business. His victims, while victims in the eyes of the law, were not the vulnerable — they were members of a powerful industry and they were, in many respects, commercial adversaries” of Disaster Restoration. Griggs and Sharp are scheduled for sentencing March 13.

The Maryland Senate unanimously passed a bill (SB 736) making it an insurance crime to rebate insurance deductibles to lure insureds into signing repair contracts. “Inducements ultimately will lead to dishonest business practices and damage the vast majority of insurance consumers,” the Coalition’s Goldblatt told a Senate committee in testimony in Annapolis last week. The bill now goes to the House, where chances of passage are uncertain, Coalition sources say. More than half a dozen states enacted laws last year making rebating illegal.

Want an insurance license in Minnesota? A bill would require criminal background checks and fingerprinting. The security measures would take effect in 2015 if SF650/HF647 becomes law. The bill also would rename the fraud unit the Commerce Department’s Fraud Prevention Bureau. The insurance department is part of the larger commerce department.

An insurance exec took advantage of her insider position to steal more than $1 million in life-insurance money from clients. Angela Madison was a coordinator of client service and insurance plans for ING Life Insurance. During a nine-year binge, the Minneapolis woman fraudulently cashed in life-insurance policies for clients then intercepted the 196 checks and delivered them to crony Tracy Jackson. The pair split the money. Madison was handed 35 months in federal prison Wednesday and must repay $1.6 million. Jackson received 27 months plus a $1.1-million tab.

Why American West Insurance?• Local company with over 60

years agriculture insurance

experience

• Quality products

• Competitive pricing

• Expert claims and

underwriting services

Be Protected. Be Sure®.

yourawi.comTo learn more about AWI contact Bruce Meyer at bmeyer@yourawi.com or call 605-929-2782.

Agribusiness • Farm & Ranch • Farm & Ranch Auto • Personal Auto Excess Liability • Watercraft • Crop-Hail • Multi-Peril

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Trusted Choice® Disaster Relief Fund Provides Aid in Wake of Sandy.

As families and businesses in the Northeast begin the clean-up and recovery process from Superstorm Sandy this week, the Trusted Choice® Disaster Relief Fund is

there to help.

The fund, established by the IIAA Educational Foundation, distributes cash

grants to victims and surviving family members of natural disasters to help provide

for their immediate or ongoing financial needs when other resources aren’t available.

It is also used to fill a gap until other funding sources can be accessed and to

provide insurance agents with supplies and resources to aid victims and surviving family members in their communities.

Big “I” members whose agency E&O

insurance is written by Swiss Re through

the Big “I” Professional Liability Program

have access to an exclusive risk

management web site.

Log on today to fish for E&O claims

frequency data, real-life case studies and

analysis, sample client letters, sample

agency procedures, agency E&O self

assessments, podcasts on important

E&O topics, and much more.

DON’T GET BITTENBY AN E&O CLAIM YOU COULD HAVE AVOIDED.

Failing to procure coverage requested by the client

Not adequately identifying client exposures

Failing to provide timely notice of a claim to the carrier

Misrepresenting or not explaining policy provisions

Providing inaccurate information to carriers

Failing to properly add additional insureds or loss payees

DON’T BE ON THE HOOK FOR:

www.independentagent.com/EOHappens

Big “I” Risk Management Website

WANTED TO BUY:

Small to medium size Agency in or around Sioux Falls

Please send all confidential inquiries to :

Independent Insurance Agents of South Dakota

PO Box 327Pierre, SD 57501

25

34

Your connection to crop protection.From sales to claims, EASYmobilitySM gives you instant access to everything you need to

serve your policyholders – wherever, whenever.

Download EASYmobilitySM for your iPad® today!

Visit naucountry.com or call 1.888.NAU.MPCI to learn more.

Apple and the Apple iPad tablet are registered trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

© 2013 NAU Country Insurance Company. All rights reserved. NAU Country Insurance Company is an equal opportunity provider. QBE and the links logo are registered service marks of QBE Insurance Group, Limited. NAU is a registered service mark of NAU Country Insurance Company.

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Independent Insurance AgentPosition available in Miller, SD

Hand County Insurance Agency, an established and growinginsurance agency is searching for a sales focused individualwho is interested in becoming a full time Crop/Hail andProperty & Casualty Agent. Must be inspired to achieveexcellence in their daily sales activities, enjoy working in ateam atmosphere, possess organization and communicationskills, and have knowledge of agriculture. The ability to obtainthe appropriate licenses within 120 days from hire is required.Will train the right candidate. Salary DOQ. Benefit packageprovided. High school or secondary education degree required.

Please forward cover letter

and resume to: EOE.

Hand County InsuranceATTN President PO Box 317 Miller, SD 57362

HUD Issues Controversial Disparate Income Rule

This week, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development issued a final rule expanding the Fair Housing Act's Discriminatory Effects Standard and how it applies to actions that have discriminatory effects on minority groups.

The new rule attempts to hold the private housing market responsible for practices that result in statistically disproportionate effects on consumers, based on color, religion, sex, familial status or national origin—regardless of whether there is evidence of intent to discriminate or that any individual was actually subjected to discriminatory treatment.

Immediate concerns were raised within the insurance industry that this could apply to insurer underwriting of homeowners insurance, even in situations where there was no intent to discriminate, and where all policyholders and applicants for insurance were subjected to the same underwriting and pricing criteria regardless of race, ethnicity or any other prohibited characteristic.

Additionally, property-casualty industry representatives pointed out that state insuranceregulators already address discrimination issuesrelated to insurance and that this HUD rule represents an infringement on state regulation of insurance.

The Big “I” has serious concerns with the new HUD rule and expects it to be closely scrutinized through Congressional oversight and potentially challenged through litigation.

We will be drawing for a $500 scholarship for an agent’s son or daughter who will be attending a post secondary educational school. You will need to be present to win! NOTE: 1752 Club 2012 Spring Clinic has applied for CE approval for 5 hours.

1752

C l u b

Spr ing Cl inic T h u r s d a y , M a r c h 2 8 t h , 2 0 1 3 R a m k o t a H o t e l 3 2 0 0 W M a p l e S t S i o u x F a l l s 6 0 5 - 6 1 0 - 2 4 5 5 S c h e d u l e 8:30 a.m. -- 9:00 a.m. Registration

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Marketing Health Care

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. Commercial topics

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Lunch—included in registration

1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. How Health Insurance Will Change in 2014

2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Farm Loss Control G u e s t S p e a k e r s Lonnie McKittrick-Fischer Rounds & Associates Don Becker-Continental Western Group Randy Moses—SD Division of Insurance Ryan Waterfall—State Auto Insurance Company

R e g i s t r a t i o n F o r m $70.00 PER PERSON

Make checks payable to: 1752 Club

Send to: Brenda Christensen 14609 485th Ave Big Stone City, SD 57216

Names: _____________________________________________________________________________________

Agency/Company: ___________________________________________________________________________

OBITUARY

JOHN LINN

March 17, 1935 - March 11, 2013

John Linn served as the Executive Vice-President of the Independent Insurance Agents of South Dakota from 1986 to 1998. He dedicated those years to serving IIASD Members and developed relationships with agency, company and industry professionals on the state and national level.

IIASD Members pay tribute to all that he gave to the insurance industry in South Dakota.

John J. Linn, 77, of Pierre, died Monday, March 11 at Avera St. Mary’s Hospital. Family will be receiving visitors from 6-8pm, Sunday, March 17 at JJ Linn’s house 1126 Woodriver Dr. all friends and family welcome. Memorial Service will be at 11:00am, Monday, March 18 at First United Methodist Church with Pastor Dan Bader officiating.

John was born March 17, 1935 in Rapid City, SD to Bernard and Marie (Kinney) Linn. He grew up in Pierre graduating from Pierre High School. After high school, he began his collegiate career at South Dakota State College in Brookings. He was then drafted into the Army and was honorably discharged in 1964. John returned to SDSC, graduating with a Bachelors Degree.

Following college John moved to California where he met his wife Rita Vetter. They were united in marriage in Las Vegas in 1968. California is the place where John started his career of over 40 years in insurance and Real Estate. After the birth of their sons they returned to Pierre in 1972.

John was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Masonic Lodge, Shriners, Elks, VFW, Izaak Walton (past president and state director), Pierre Chamber of Commerce (past president), Rotary (past director), Pierre Fire Department, St. Mary’s Hospital Board of Directors, past owner of KELCO Corp and the Locke Hotel, past owner of the Landmark Agency, Executive Director for Independent Insurance Agents of SD.

STUDY REVEALS GROWTH IN PROPERTY-CASUALTY INSURANCE MARKETIndependent insurance agents outperformed captive agency carriers in several areas.

ALEXANDRIA, Va., March 11, 2013 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) has released the results of the 2013 Market Share Study (based on 2011 data) which reveal that after years of market contraction, all property-casualty insurance premium lines grew. The study also showed that independent agents and brokers (collectively “IAs”) were well positioned to capture a substantial piece of the market going forward.

This is the 17th year the Big “I” has contracted with A.M. Best Company to supply it with year-end industry market share and company expense data. The Big “I” analyzes this data annually to assess the state of the independent agency system.

“The Big ‘I’ is pleased to announce that, despite the market fluctuations and challenges of recent years, the independent insurance agency system remains stable, strong and growing,” says Bob Rusbuldt, Big “I” president and CEO. “Many carriers that weathered the storm of market contractions for several years were able to successfully bounce back.”

The market share study revealed that many regional and national IA carriers expanded their market shares by impressive double digits and that overall IA shares grew in several states. More good news also showed that regional IAs outpaced market growth in many business lines across the country.

“This annual study provides the most accurate picture of what is occurring with property casualty insurance distribution because it separates out the direct response companies from the captive agency companies,” notes Madelyn Flannagan, Big ‘I” vice president of agent development, education and research. “Unique to the Big ‘I’ study, A.M. Best separates out the affiliates of groups which use different distribution systems and places these affiliates in the appropriate distribution category wherever the company group uses separate affiliates for this purpose.”

Other findings from the Market Share Study include:

•IAs outperformed captive agencies carriers in personal lines and grew premiums by nearly the same amount as direct response carriers largely due to impressive performance in homeowners, where IAs outperformed the captive agencies;

•IA carriers also benefited greatly by a huge surge in commercial premiums, which climbed by 5% in 2011. IA carriers also captured $8.4 billion in additional premiums in 2011, which represents 74% of the entire $11.4 billion growth in that market.

•IAs still control a majority of the entire p‐c market, writing 57% of all premiums, including a third of all personal premiums.

•IAs still dominate commercial insurance sales, which resurged in 2011, growing $11 billion or 5% more than 2010.

•IAs grew premiums and/or market share in several states and IA share remains strong in many states overall. In many states, IAs dominate both personal and commercial lines.

•IAs are as efficient as other models. While IAs as a group may have higher efficiency ratios compared with captive and direct writers, there are several IA carriers with personal auto efficiency ratios that rival these challengers. As noted in past reports, this proves that management, not the model itself, is the key driver.

•Many Big “I” Best Practices firms continued to grow in the face of recent weak markets and are doing well now that the p‐c market appears to have turned around. Agencies that are easy to do business with, use improved access to technology and leverage the confidence and customization communicated through the Trusted Choice® brand have the potential to enjoy robust growth in every state and every product line.

Four Keys to Building Your Insurance BusinessBy: John Chapin

There are only four activities you have to engage in to significantly grow your business. If you get good at these and do them consistently, it is possible to double or even triple your business within one year.

Four Business Building Keys

1) Retain Current CustomersIt takes five times as much time, money, effort and energy to get a new customer as it does to retain a current one. Current customers are your foundation and the first step to building a business iskeeping that foundation firmly in place. You keep that foundation in place by regularly communicating with customers, delivering top-notch customer service, and overall making sure your customers are extremely happy with you and the service you are providing. You should be asking, and otherwise surveying customers, on a regular basis as to what they like and what they think you can improve upon. When you do speak with customers, let them know you appreciate their business. Never take customers for granted or let your service slip.

Do what you can to build a personal connection with customers. Send thank-you notes, cards on special occasions, and find other ways to add that special touch and let customers know you care. We know that people do business with people they know, like, and trust, and in fact, studies show that 97% of people list that as the number one reason for doing business with a particular company. It’s simple, before a friend leaves you for a better price or perceived better service, they will at least pick up the phone and call you.

Note: I realize there may be some customers you don’t want to retain and that’s fine, just make sure to remain professional and above-board. You don’t want to tarnish your image or give anyone any unnecessary ammunition against you.

2) Review Coverage Not only is reviewing coverage on an annual basis the right thing to do for your customer, it can also provide the opportunity to increase coverage and add other items thus adding premium dollars. Of course you only suggest increasing coverage if it is necessary, never in an attempt to simply increase premium and make more money at the expense of your customer. In addition to opportunities for more business, reviewing coverage helps ensure that both the customer and you are covered in the case of a claim, as most complaints come from inadequate coverage and a lack of communication.

3) InquireStudies show that the average policy holder has 6-7 policies while each agency has only 1.5 of those policies. During your annual review and other conversations with the customer, you want to inquire about other policies the customer might have that you can get.

For over 20 years I had my auto policies with one agent, my home-owners with another, and several other policies in other locations. This was due to several reasons, but it is clear that I am more the rule than the exception. Not once in that twenty-year time frame was I asked by any of my agents about other policies I had elsewhere. Not once. If they were trying to get rid of me, I would understand however, due to the fact that I have never had a claim, pay my above-average premiums in full with the first invoice, and am otherwise a good customer, I can only assume that they are missing the boat. If someone has a home-owners policy, there is a very good chance they at least have an auto policy or two. It’s as simple as saying something along the lines of, “By the way, if we bundle your auto and home-owners I may be able to save you some money. Can I simply give you a quote if for no other reason than to keep the other guy honest?” With one or two simple questions during each review, it’s entirely possible to double your business.

4) Pursue New BusinessThis one is pretty self explanatory and should go without saying. In addition to adding new customers to your current base, you will occasionally have to replace customers that die, ones you decide to let go, or ones that leave for some other reason. Start by deciding how many new customers you would like and then determine how many prospects you need and how you will get those prospects. Break your annual goals down to monthly, weekly, and daily activity and then get to work. These days, with the average agent and agency cutting back, it’s a great time to go get new, competitive business. And remember, you’re in sales and sales is a numbers game. While it’s true that you need quality behind the numbers and the eventual relationships, in order to get the relationships, you need to talk to lots of people. It’s simple, the more people you talk to the more business you will do. If you talk to enough people during the day, you will eventually run into someone who says, “I need what you have” or, “I know someone who needs what you have.”

During prime working hours you should be spending as much time as possible on the above four items. Other tasks should be delegated or, if you must do them yourself, wait and do them off-hours.

Quote of the Month:The achievements of an organization

are the results of the combined effort of each individual.

AMERICAN COLLECTORS BECOMES FIRST SPECIALTY COLLECTOR VEHICLE/COLLECTIBLES FIRM TO JOIN TRUSTED CHOICE®

New Jersey based insurer is latest brand movement company partner.

ALEXANDRIA, Va., March 5, 2013 – American Collectors Insurance, a national provider of insurance for collector vehicles and collectibles, is the newest member of the Trusted Choice® consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers. American Collectors Insurance, headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., has joined 64 leading companies nationwide as a Trusted Choice® company partner.

“Collector vehicles and collectibles are a passion in every state, and agents who give attention to this market are rewarded with strong client relationships,” says Dave Evans, Trusted Choice® executive director. “The support of American Collectors for Trusted Choice® can spur greater awareness among agents of the importance of the proper coverages for collector vehicles and collectibles, which present a distinct set of risks as compared with the standard auto market.”

American Collectors programs offer agreed-value coverage, choice of deductibles, broad underwriting guidelines, a choice of mileage plans, flexible usage, expense reimbursement plan and other features designed specifically for collectors.

“Our firm was born as a family insurance agency and remains so today,” says Jill Bookman, American Collectors Insurance CEO. “When we look at the positive attributes of the Trusted Choice® Pledge of Performance, we think of the agents with whom we have the privilege to work. American Collectors proudly supports the independent agency system, and especially the agents who have made the commitment to be part of Trusted Choice®.”

American Collectors Insurance, founded in 1976, is the nation’s leading provider of collector-vehicle and collectibles insurance. A wide range of collector vehicles qualify for American Collectors’ program, from “brass and wood” antiques to street rods, exotics, modern classics and more. American Collectors also offers all-risk coverage for a wide range of collections from stamps, coins and comic books to vintage wine, sports memorabilia and beyond. More information is available at www.AmericanCollectors.com/Agents.

Trusted Choice® was launched by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) and several independent agency companies to highlight the benefits independent agencies and brokerage firms offer consumers—choice of companies, customization of policies and advocacy support. It is the premier consumer brand for independent insurance agents and provides national advertising and other strategic tools to reach consumers.

POWER IN PARTNERS March 2013

DIAMONDProgressive Insurance Co.

Great Plains BrokerageGraber & Associates

PLATINUMFarmers Mutual of NebraskaRisk Administration Services

Great American Insurance CompanyNAU Country Insurance

GOLDAustin Mutual Insurance Compnay

Dakota Claims ServiceThe IMT Group

Le Mars Insurance CompanyNorth Star Mutual Insurance Company

Rain & Hail, LLCUnited Fire Group

SFM Mutual Insurance CompanyState Auto Insurance CompaniesCGB Diversified Services, Inc.

Columbia Insurance GroupAllied Insurance

Western National InsuranceContinental Western Group

SILVERDoss & Associates

Farmers Alliance MutualMidwest Family Mutual

SafeCoSwiss Re

Risk Placement Services

BRONZEAuto-Owners InsuranceBjornson/Sentinel E & L

Buckeye Insurance GroupCenter Mutual Insurance Co.

Insurance Alternatives, LLC Missouri Valley Mutual Insurance Co.

Northwest GF Mutual InsurancePatriot National Insurance Group

ReliaMax