HAPPY NEW YEAR!! Now, Attend to Some Housekeeping...

I wish all of my readers a prosperous 2008.

2007 has been exciting. In October, I took over this site and I appreciate the feedback from readers. In November, I revamped the Insurance Forum on this site and I hope that readers with questions, comments or advice will make ample use of it in 2008.

If you are in your office today on this last day of 2007, then take some time to review your insurance situation. Do you:

• Have sufficient coverage for all of your operations? Insurance premiums are tax deductible and today may be the day to add extra coverage or to make that premium payment to secure a 2007 deduction.
• Have a plan to lower premiums in 2008? Lowering your premiums involves planning, legal and regulatory compliance, and committing to safety.
• Have your critical documents safe, secure and backed up in case of an emergency? If there was a fire tonight at your office, do you have your policies at hand in a safe place or did those policies go up in smoke?
• Have a good insurance professional to work for you in 2008?
• Lead by example? Lowering health insurance premiums demands a commitment to good health choices, make a resolution to stop smoking, eliminate smoking in your workplace and encourage wellness. Lowering workers' compensation and liability premiums demands a commitment to safety. Does your company have a real commitment to safety?

The beginning of a new year is an exciting time to plan for growth, renewal and new ventures. I wish you the best in 2008.