Over the holidays, many households add new electronics, tools, furniture, or recreational equipment. If these items aren’t reflected in your policy, coverage limits may fall short if a loss occurs. A quick review can help ensure your personal property coverage still matches what you own.

January is also a good time to think about liability. Snow and ice increase the risk of slip-and-fall accidents at homes and businesses. Making sure walkways are maintained and coverage limits are appropriate can help protect you if someone is injured on your property.

For business owners, the start of the year often brings operational changes. Updated equipment, new vehicles, staffing adjustments, or expanded services can all affect insurance needs. Aligning coverage with how your business operates today helps reduce gaps and surprises later.

Insurance isn’t something to set and forget. A January check-in can help ensure your coverage reflects your current life, work, and risks—so you can move into the new year informed and prepared.

The post January Insurance Check-In: Starting the Year Prepared in Montana appeared first on Farmers Union Insurance.

Insurance isn’t something most people want to think about during the holidays, but a quick check-in now can help prevent surprises when winter weather, travel, or unexpected events occur.

Winter Weather Brings Real Risks

Cold temperatures, snow load, ice dams, frozen pipes, and winter storms are part of life in Montana. December is a good reminder to make sure your home insurance reflects how your property is actually used and heated.

If you rely on a wood stove, space heaters, or alternative heat sources, those details matter for coverage. If your home sits vacant while you travel or spend time elsewhere, that can also affect how a claim is handled.

Holiday Travel and Auto Coverage

December is one of the busiest travel months of the year. Whether you’re driving across the state to see family or heading out of town for a winter getaway, it’s worth confirming your auto policy details.

Roadside assistance, rental coverage, and collision limits are especially important when winter driving conditions are unpredictable.

New Purchases and Valuable Items

The holidays often bring new purchases—tools, electronics, jewelry, firearms, equipment, or gifts that carry significant value. Many standard policies have limits on certain categories unless items are specifically scheduled.

Farms, Ranches, and Equipment at Year-End

Winter is a natural pause for Montana farms and ranches. Reviewing equipment values, livestock counts, buildings, and liability coverage now can help avoid rushed decisions later.

Businesses Wrapping Up the Year

If your business expanded, added employees, or purchased equipment this year, your insurance should reflect those changes.

Ending the Year Prepared

December is about making sure the protection you rely on still fits so you can enter the new year with confidence.

The post December in Montana: A Good Time to Check What Protects You appeared first on Farmers Union Insurance.

Insurance is more than a policy. It is a promise to stand beside you when life takes an unexpected turn. Whether it is a claim after a storm, guidance during a coverage review, or help protecting a new home or business, we appreciate the opportunity to be part of your financial security.

We are also thankful for the farmers and ranchers who keep our communities strong. November marks the end of another season of long hours, tough decisions, and hard work. Your resilience and dedication are at the heart of everything rural communities stand for, and we are honored to provide the protection you rely on year after year.

Our team is grateful for every conversation, every renewal, and every opportunity to help someone feel confident in their coverage. As we head into the holiday season, we remain committed to offering dependable service, honest advice, and policies that truly reflect your needs.

Thank you for trusting Farmers Union Insurance. We wish you a safe, warm, and meaningful November.

The post A Season of Gratitude at Farmers Union Insurance appeared first on Farmers Union Insurance.

October brings shorter days, cooler temperatures, and the final push before winter sets in. But while most Montana producers are focused on harvest and prep work, there’s something else that deserves attention—coverage gaps that can quietly creep into farm and ranch insurance policies.

These unseen gaps can cause financial shocks when losses occur. Here are a few areas where surprises often lurk.

1. Unlisted Equipment
   That new ATV, side-by-side, or tractor attachment you added this summer might not be automatically covered under your existing policy. If it isn’t specifically listed, damage or theft could become an out-of-pocket expense.
2. Limited Liability Coverage
   Many Montana farms open their gates to guests during fall—whether for hunting, family gatherings, or community events. If someone is injured on your property, your standard liability coverage may not fully protect you, especially if the activity is outside your normal farm operations.
3. Changing Operations
   Farms and ranches evolve over time. Maybe you’ve added custom baling, grain hauling, or direct-to-consumer beef sales. If your insurance policy hasn’t kept up with your business model, you could have exposures that aren’t reflected in your coverage.
4. Outdated Policy Limits
   Replacement costs for buildings, equipment, and supplies have risen significantly in recent years. If your policy hasn’t been reviewed or updated, it may not reflect current values—leaving you underinsured when it matters most.

Protect Your Operation from Hidden Risks
Farming and ranching in Montana already come with enough uncertainty—weather, markets, and equipment breakdowns are challenging enough without insurance gaps adding to the mix.

Take time this fall to review your policies and address potential vulnerabilities. A quick conversation now can prevent major losses later.

If you’d like help identifying potential gaps or updating your coverage, our team is here to help you stay protected through every season.

The post Scary Coverage Gaps That Haunt Montana Farms and Ranches appeared first on Farmers Union Insurance.

Why September is an Ideal Month for an Insurance Review

Insurance isn’t something most people think about every day. But September offers a natural reminder to take stock of your needs: children are back in school, harvest season is underway, and winter preparations are beginning. Taking time now to check your coverage ensures you won’t be caught off guard later in the year.

Home Insurance Considerations

Montana homeowners know that fall often means heavy winds, early snowstorms, and colder nights. Make sure your home insurance policy reflects the value of your home and belongings today—not what they were worth years ago. This is also a good time to ask about coverage for seasonal risks, like frozen pipes or roof damage.

Auto Insurance in Montana

With the seasons changing, road conditions can change quickly. Whether it’s slick highways or wildlife crossing rural roads, September is a reminder to review your auto insurance coverage. Confirm you have protection for collisions, roadside assistance, and adequate liability limits.

Farm and Ranch Insurance

September marks a busy season for Montana farmers and ranchers. Harvest time brings higher risks—equipment breakdowns, liability exposure, and crop storage issues. Farm and ranch insurance can help safeguard your operations during this critical time of year, ensuring that one setback doesn’t derail your season.

Business Insurance

For Montana’s small businesses, September is also a strategic time to plan ahead. Winter often brings slower months, so now is the time to double-check your commercial insurance. Coverage for property, liability, or cyber risks can help you head into the last quarter of the year with confidence.

The Bottom Line

Insurance isn’t just about policies—it’s about preparation. As September reminds us that the seasons are changing, take the opportunity to review your coverage. Whether you’re protecting your home, vehicle, business, or farm, updating your insurance now can give you peace of mind through the fall and winter months ahead.

The post Preparing for Fall in Montana – Insurance Insights for September appeared first on Farmers Union Insurance.

Driving Tips for August in Great Falls

1. Watch for Farm Equipment – Harvest season means slow-moving tractors and combines on rural highways. Be patient, give them space, and avoid risky passing.
2. Stay Alert for Motorcycles – Summer is prime riding season in Montana. Double-check your blind spots before turning or merging.
3. Prepare for Weather Changes – August can bring thunderstorms and hail. Keep an eye on the forecast and park under cover when possible.
4. Back-to-School Traffic – Watch for school zones, crosswalks, and buses as kids return to class.

Why Auto Insurance Matters More This Month

Accidents can happen at any time, but with more vehicles on the road, your chances increase. Comprehensive coverage helps protect you from hail damage, while collision and liability keep you financially secure if an accident occurs.

Whether you’re headed to the lake, taking the kids back to school, or driving a farm truck down Highway 87, having the right coverage ensures you’re protected every mile of the way.

Need a policy check before the busy season? Your local Farmers Union insurance advisor can review your coverage and make sure you’re set for the months ahead.

The post Staying Safe on Montana Roads This August appeared first on Farmers Union Insurance.

Pause the Mail, Not the Fun

Before you head out, put a hold on your mail or ask someone you trust to collect it. An overflowing mailbox is an open invitation to identity thieves on the lookout for personal info.

Bring Less, Enjoy More

Leave most of your credit cards at home. Traveling with one or two should cover your needs—and remember to notify your credit card companies that you’ll be out of town. This helps them flag unusual activity faster.

Secure Your Devices & Data

If you’re using a hotel computer to check in or book tickets, make sure to log out of every account and close the browser when you’re done. It only takes one forgotten tab to risk exposing your private information.

Also, avoid leaving laptops or phones unattended in your hotel room. If you must leave them behind, back up important data beforehand and consider using a secure travel safe.

Protect Personal Documents

Only travel with the essential documents you need. Keep sensitive papers like social security cards and medical records safe at home. If you must bring them, make copies and leave those secured in a separate location.

Think Before You Connect

Public Wi-Fi might be convenient, but it’s also a hacker’s playground. If you must connect, use a secure network—look for that little padlock icon in the browser address bar. Better yet, stick to your mobile hotspot or a VPN.

Watch Your Phone Like a Passport

Keep your mobile device with you at all times. Be especially cautious about SIM card swapping or phone cloning, which are more common in international travel. Enabling two-factor authentication and using strong passwords can help keep your accounts safe.

You’ve worked hard all year—don’t let identity theft put a damper on your well-earned vacation. With a few extra steps, you can enjoy peace of mind while you soak up the sun. Safe travels from all of us!

Source: https://idresolution.net/resources/

The post Safe Travels: Protecting Your Identity During Vacation Season appeared first on Farmers Union Insurance.

1. Storm Season in Montana: Are You Covered?

Montana sees its fair share of summer hailstorms and wind damage, especially from June through August. A basic home insurance policy often covers hail, but many homeowners don’t realize:

• Roofs over 10 years old may be subject to depreciation.
• Cosmetic siding damage might be excluded.
• Detached structures like sheds or barns may need extra coverage.

Tip: Review your policy’s wind and hail deductible. Some are separate from your standard deductible and can be higher.

2. Wildfire Risk: Don’t Assume You’re Safe

Wildfires are becoming more common in the western U.S., and Montana is no exception. Even if you live in the city, smoke damage, ash cleanup, or evacuation expenses may apply.

Check for:

• Coverage for smoke damage inside your home.
• Additional living expenses (ALE) if you must evacuate.
• Proper dwelling and contents limits based on today’s replacement costs.

3. Liability Surprises: Pools, Trampolines, and Fire Pits

Summer fun can come with liability risks—especially with guests and kids around. Did you know that:

• Trampolines and pools may be excluded or require safety features like fencing?
• A guest injured on your property could result in a lawsuit?
• Fire pit accidents can fall under personal liability coverage—if your limits are adequate?

Tip: Consider adding a personal umbrella policy for extra liability protection, often $1 million or more, at a low annual cost.

4. Are You Traveling? Your Home Might Be at Risk

Heading to Flathead Lake or Glacier National Park? Vacant homes are more vulnerable to break-ins or water leaks. If you’ll be away for more than a few days:

• Ask a neighbor to check in regularly.
• Install smart home monitors or security systems.
• Let your insurance agent know—some carriers offer discounts for monitored systems.

Montana summers are beautiful—but unpredictable. Let’s confirm your homeowners insurance is built for both blue skies and bad weather. A 15-minute policy review could mean real protection when you need it most.

The post Montana Summers & Your Home Insurance: What You Might Be Missing appeared first on Farmers Union Insurance.

If your teen just got their license in Great Falls, now’s the time to understand how to protect your family—on the road and on your policy.

1. Why Are the 100 Deadliest Days So Dangerous?

According to AAA, more than 7,000 people died in teen-related crashes during the summer months over a 10-year span. Key risk factors include:

• More free time and late-night driving
• More passengers and distractions
• Less experience navigating Montana’s unique road conditions

2. Does Your Auto Policy Reflect the Risk?

Adding a teen driver to your auto insurance in Great Falls will likely increase your premium—but skipping important coverages to save money can backfire.

Confirm your policy includes:

• Higher liability limits: Teen drivers are statistically more likely to cause accidents. Minimum limits may not cover serious claims.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage: Montana has a higher-than-average rate of uninsured drivers.
• Medical Payments or PIP: Helps cover injuries regardless of fault.
• Roadside Assistance and Rental Car Reimbursement: Especially useful for new drivers.

3. Consider Usage-Based or Telematics Programs

Many Montana insurers now offer telematics programs that track real driving behavior—like speed, braking, and time of day. Good driving habits = discounts.

Benefits for parents:

• Real-time feedback on your teen’s driving.
• Possible savings of 10–30%.
• Incentivizes safer habits.

But beware: not all programs reduce costs—if risky behavior is detected, rates could increase.

4. Have a Teen Driving Agreement

Sit down with your teen and agree on rules such as:

• No phone use while driving.
• No passengers without permission.
• No driving after 10 PM.
• Always wear a seatbelt.

Put it in writing. Many insurance agents offer free templates.

5. Other Smart Moves:

• Good Student Discounts: If your teen has a 3.0 GPA or higher, you could save.
• Driver’s Ed Course: Some insurers offer discounts if completed.
• Part-Time Driver?: Let your agent know if your teen isn’t driving daily—there may be rate reductions.

You can’t ride shotgun with your teen forever—but you can set them up for safety and success. Let’s make sure your auto policy reflects today’s risks and tomorrow’s confidence.

Call your local FUMICO agent to review your teen driver insurance today.

The post The 100 Deadliest Days: Protecting Montana’s Teen Drivers This Summer appeared first on Farmers Union Insurance.

A Space to Learn and Lead

The convention featured a full lineup of educational sessions and interactive workshops designed to address the evolving challenges of the insurance landscape. From farm and ranch insurance to personal lines, attendees gained practical insights and fresh strategies to take back to their agencies. Whether seasoned professionals or new agents, everyone walked away with something valuable.

Connection Across the State

One of the most powerful aspects of the Statewide Convention is the sense of community and collaboration. Agents had the opportunity to connect with peers facing similar challenges and goals, building relationships that extend far beyond the event. The networking events, breakout discussions, and casual conversations created space for new partnerships and ideas to grow.

Celebrating Excellence

A highlight of the event was the annual awards ceremony, where top-performing agents and agencies were recognized for their hard work, integrity, and innovation. These honors remind us that while the business of insurance is complex, it’s also deeply personal—driven by people committed to protecting others.

Looking Ahead

The Statewide Convention wasn’t just a look back at what’s been accomplished—it was a look forward at where the industry is going. With shifting risks, client expectations, and technology trends, Summit States’s agents left feeling not only informed, but inspired.

As the industry continues to evolve, the lessons learned and connections made at Statewide will continue to serve as a foundation for progress—and a reminder that we’re stronger together.

The post Growth, Gratitude & Greatness: Highlights from the Summit States Statewide 2025 Convention appeared first on Farmers Union Insurance.