As the holiday season approaches, we want to keep you informed about our live support hours so you can plan ahead.

Here's our regular live support schedule:

Monday–Friday: Open 8:00 AM–8:00 PM ET (5:00 AM–5:00 PM PT).
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Holiday Closures:
Thanksgiving: Closed Thursday, November 28, and Friday, November 29.
Christmas: Closed Tuesday, December 24, and Wednesday, December 25.
New Year’s Day: Closed Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
Regular hours will resume the day following each closure. Thank you for allowing us to support you this year—we wish you a happy and safe holiday season!

If you need assistance during the closures, feel free to explore our Agent Resource Center for answers to common questions.

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Rainbow's Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) and Excess Liability (XS) for restaurants is live in Iowa! 

Here at Rainbow, we take our mission to build a superior restaurant BOP just as seriously as Iowa takes their contributions to food greatness! You may know Iowa's claim to corn fame, but did you know that Iowa is home of the world's ice cream capital? Le Mars, Iowa has earned this title as the home of Blue Bunny ice cream 😍

Rainbow helps restaurant owners effectively navigate the rises and falls of the industry and make informed decisions about insurance coverage, and is 100% built for restaurants. 

Rainbow agents offer restaurant owners: 

• Diverse payment plan options that fit every restaurant’s needs
• Discounted premiums for demonstrating safe business practices
• Credits for affinity memberships that promote improved loss control
• Free access to training and safety resources

Rainbow agents empower restaurant owners to evolve their operations to address the new set of risks present in the space and navigate the shift to digital technology. Rainbow can work with a restaurant owners’ existing agent or refer them to one of our preferred restaurant experts. 

If you’re an agent looking to partner with Rainbow, get appointed here. You’ll be connected with our Agency Success Team!

Admitted Business Owner’s Policy Program Now Available to Independent Agents Across Three New States

RSAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rainbow, the digitally-enabled managing general underwriter specializing in tailored small business insurance products, is excited to announce the launch of its admitted restaurant insurance program in New Jersey, Virginia, and Iowa. This expansion strengthens Rainbow’s footprint across critical U.S. markets to work with more agents in key geographic regions such as the Tri-State, Mid-Atlantic, and the Upper Midwest. Read our latest press release here!

Rainbow's Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) and Excess Liability (XS) for restaurants is live in New Jersey! 

Here at Rainbow, we take our mission to build a superior restaurant BOP just as seriously as New Jersey takes their contributions to food greatness! You may know New Jersey's claim to hoagie, diner, and tomato pie fame, but did you know that New Jersey is one of the top cranberry contributors in the world? Thanks NJ!

Rainbow helps restaurant owners effectively navigate the rises and falls of the industry and make informed decisions about insurance coverage, and is 100% built for restaurants. 

Rainbow agents offer restaurant owners: 

• Diverse payment plan options that fit every restaurant’s needs
• Discounted premiums for demonstrating safe business practices
• Credits for affinity memberships that promote improved loss control
• Free access to training and safety resources

Rainbow agents empower restaurant owners to evolve their operations to address the new set of risks present in the space and navigate the shift to digital technology. Rainbow can work with a restaurant owners’ existing agent or refer them to one of our preferred restaurant experts. 

If you’re an agent looking to partner with Rainbow, get appointed here. You’ll be connected with our Agency Success Team!

Dive into the future of underwriting with Bobby Touran, CEO, and Co-Founder of Rainbow, at ITC Vegas October 15-17th!

In his session, "Underwriting Reinvented: Embracing Innovation for Smarter Risk Assessment ," Bobby and the panel delves into innovative tools and methodologies that enhance risk assessment, streamline workflows, and improve accuracy. Attendees will learn how to leverage data analytics, AI, and machine learning to make more informed underwriting decisions. Discover strategies for integrating these advancements to drive efficiency and competitive advantage. Join us to uncover the future of underwriting and learn how to embrace innovation for smarter, more effective risk management in the insurance industry.

With over 15 years of experience in insurance and software development, Bobby spearheads Rainbow, a tech-enabled specialty insurance MGU revolutionizing insurance programs tailored for specific industry verticals, starting with restaurants. Rainbow's innovative approach to program administration and underwriting seamlessly integrates software, data, and human expertise to craft superior insurance products.

Join Bobby at ITC Vegas to gain insights into leveraging modern technologies for data-driven underwriting and discover how Rainbow is shaping the future of commercial insurance. See you in Vegas!

Explore 2024 Federal and State labor law changes in the United States. Minimum wage updates, workplace violence reporting, and more. Stay compliant!

Federal Updates‍

EEOC Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal Effective 06/2023

Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) - Federal Minimum Wage Effective 05/2023

EEOC Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal Effective 10/2022

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Effective 01/2015

2024 Labor Law Updates‍

Alaska Labor Law Poster
Alaska Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

Arizona Labor Law Poster
Arizona Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

California Labor Law Poster
Unemployment Insurance Effective June 5, 2024

California Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

Discrimination Notice Effective January 1, 2024

CALOSHA – Health and Safety Protection Effective January 1, 2024

Paid Sick Leave Notice Effective January 1, 2024

Colorado Labor Law Poster
Discrimination in Employment Effective July 1, 2024

Colorado Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

Connecticut Labor Law Poster
Connecticut Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

District of Columbia Labor Law Poster
EEOC Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal Effective July 18, 2024

Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) - Federal Minimum Wage Effective July 18, 2024

Minimum Wage Effective July 1, 2024

Paid Family Leave Effective February 1, 2024

Universal Labor Law Effective January 1, 2024

Florida Labor Law Poster
Florida Equal Opportunity is the Law Effective September 1, 2024

Georgia Labor Law Poster
Equal Pay for Equal Work Act Effective September 1, 2024

Guam Labor Law Poster
Guam Minimum Wage Effective August 21, 2024

Hawaii Labor Law Poster
Unemployment Insurance Effective February 20, 2024

Illinois Labor Law Poster
Paid Leave Effective February 1, 2024

Illinois Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

Paid Leave Effective January 1, 2024

VESSA - Victims Economic Security and Safety Act Effective January 1, 2024

Indiana Labor Law Poster
Veteran's Benefits and Services Effective July 1, 2024

Kansas Labor Law Poster
Worker's Compensation Effective June 1, 2024

Kentucky Labor Law Poster
EEOC Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal Effective September 9, 2024

Louisiana Labor Law Poster
Earned Income Credit Effective September 30, 2024

Massachusetts Labor Law Poster
Workers' Compensation Effective September 1, 2024

Paid Family and Medical Leave Effective January 1, 2024

Maine Labor Law Poster
Workers Compensation Effective February 1, 2024

Maine Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

Regulation of Employment Effective January 1, 2024

An Act to Protect Employee Freedom of Speech Effective January 1, 2024

Veterans Benefits and Services Effective January 1, 2024

Maryland Labor Law Poster
Maryland Minimum Wage and Overtime Law Effective January 1, 2024

Michigan Labor Law Poster
Michigan Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

Discrimination Effective January 1, 2024

Discrimination Effective January 1, 2024

Minnesota Labor Law Poster
Minnesota Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

Veterans Benefits and Services Effective January 1, 2024

Missouri Labor Law Poster
Missouri Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

Mississippi Labor Law Poster
Unemployment Insurance Effective May 1, 2024

Victims of Domestic Violence Effective July 1, 2024

Nevada Labor Law Poster
Rules to be Observed by Employers Effective July 1, 2024

Minimum Wage Bulletin Effective July 1, 2024

Daily Overtime Bulletin Effective July 1, 2024

New York Labor Law Poster
Discrimination Notice Effective June 17, 2024

New York Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

Ohio Labor Law Poster
Ohio Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

Oklahoma Labor Law Poster
Unemployment Insurance Effective June 5, 2024

Oregon Labor Law Poster
Captive Audiences Effective July 1, 2024

Oregon Minimum Wage Effective July 1, 2024

Notice to Agricultural Workers Effective July 1, 2024

Breaks & Overtime Effective July 1, 2024

Equal Pay Law Effective July 1, 2024

OFLA - Oregon Family Leave Act Effective July 1, 2024

Oregon Sick Time Law Effective July 1, 2024

Victims of Domestic Violence Effective July 1, 2024

Occupational Safety and Health Protection Effective April 1, 2024

Rhode Island Labor Law Poster
Rhode Island Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

Rhode Island Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

South Dakota Labor Law Poster
Reemployment Assistance Effective March 1, 2024

Tennessee Labor Law Poster
Payday Notice and Child Labor Laws Effective June 17, 2024

Texas Labor Law Poster
Reporting Workplace Violence Effective January 8, 2024

Utah Labor Law Poster
Unemployment Insurance Effective April 1, 2024

Vermont Labor Law Poster
Vermont Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024

Virginia Labor Law Poster
VOSH - Virginia Health & Safety Protection

Unemployment Insurance Effective April 2, 2024

VOSH - Virginia Health & Safety Protection

Wisconsin Labor Law Poster
Unemployment Insurance Effective February 20, 2024

Washington Labor Law Poster
Paid Family and Medical Leave Effective January 1, 2024

‍West Virginia Labor Law Poster
Unemployment Insurance Effective September 1, 2024

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*above changes pulled from the following link.

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The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has recently received an extension, with funding secured until December 20, 2024. This update is crucial for independent insurance agents who need to stay informed about how the extension affects their clients, policies, and overall business operations.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into what the NFIP extension means for independent insurance agents, the impact on the flood insurance market, and how agents can leverage this opportunity to better serve their clients.

What is the NFIP and Why Is It Important?

The NFIP is a federal program managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that provides flood insurance to property owners, renters, and businesses. It aims to reduce the financial impact of flooding, which is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States. Through the NFIP, property owners in participating communities can obtain flood insurance coverage, helping to protect their investments and recover more quickly after a flood event.

The Recent NFIP Extension: Key Facts

• New Expiration Date: The NFIP has been extended until December 20, 2024, through a continuing resolution (CR) passed by Congress on September 25, 2024.
• 31st Short-Term Extension: This extension marks the 31st time the NFIP has received a short-term extension since its last long-term reauthorization expired in 2017.
• No Significant Program Changes: While the extension provides additional time for the program to continue operating, it does not include any significant changes or reforms to the existing NFIP structure.

Why the NFIP Extension Matters to Independent Insurance Agents

1. Continuity of Coverage: The extension ensures that existing and potential policyholders can continue to obtain flood insurance coverage without interruption.
2. Opportunity for Growth: With the NFIP in place until December 2024, agents have more time to educate clients about the importance of flood insurance, particularly in high-risk areas. This extension allows agents to grow their book of business by targeting new customers who may be unaware of their flood risk.
3. Reinforcing the Importance of Flood Insurance: Despite being an essential form of protection, many business owners still lack flood insurance coverage. News of the NFIP extension gives agents an opportunity to emphasize the importance of flood insurance, especially as climate change continues to increase the frequency and severity of flood events.

Tips for Independent Insurance Agents During the NFIP Extension Period

With the NFIP extended for another year, now is the perfect time for independent insurance agents to take proactive steps to serve their clients better and grow their business. Here are some actionable tips:

• Stay Informed and Educate Your Clients
  • Know the Details: Keep up with the latest news and updates about the NFIP, as well as any potential changes or reforms that might arise before the next expiration date.
  • Client Education: Use this extension period to educate your clients about the risks of flooding, even if they live outside high-risk flood zones. Emphasize that flood damage is not covered under standard property owners or renters insurance policies, making flood insurance a crucial addition.
• Identify Potential Clients
  • Identify High-Risk Areas: Utilize FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) to identify high-risk flood areas in your region. Reach out to business owners in these zones to inform them about the benefits of flood insurance.
  • Target Gaps in Coverage: Many business owners may believe they’re adequately covered by their existing policies. Take this opportunity to review your clients’ coverage and identify any gaps, particularly in areas prone to flooding.
• Leverage Marketing Channels to Spread the Word
  • Digital Marketing: Use email marketing, social media, and blog content to keep your clients and prospects informed about the NFIP extension and the importance of flood insurance.
  • Host Educational Webinars: Consider hosting webinars or workshops that provide valuable insights into flood insurance coverage
• Develop Partnerships with Real Estate Professionals
  • Collaborate with Realtors: Real estate agents are often the first point of contact for property buyers. By partnering with them, you can ensure that potential property owners are aware of flood insurance requirements and options, leading to more informed insurance decisions.

Understanding the Long-Term Outlook for the NFIP

While the current extension provides a temporary solution, the future of the NFIP remains uncertain. The program has faced numerous challenges over the years, including:

• Financial Sustainability: The NFIP is currently over $20 billion in debt, raising concerns about its long-term financial viability.
• Climate Change and Increased Flooding: As climate change continues to contribute to more frequent and severe flooding, the demand for flood insurance is expected to rise, putting additional pressure on the NFIP.
• Need for Program Reforms: There have been ongoing discussions about reforming the NFIP to make it more financially stable and effective at addressing flood risks. Potential reforms may include updated flood mapping, revised premium rates, and improved mitigation strategies.

Alternative Flood Insurance Options for Clients

While the NFIP remains a primary source of flood insurance, independent insurance agents should be aware of private flood insurance options. Private flood insurance can oftentimes offer:

1. Higher Coverage Limits: The NFIP has coverage limits of $250,000 for buildings and $100,000 for contents. Private insurers often offer higher coverage limits, making them an attractive option for clients with higher value properties.
2. Flexible Policy Terms: Private insurers may offer more flexible coverage options, such as additional expenses, basement contents, and lower deductibles.
3. Competitive Pricing: In some cases, private flood insurance may be more affordable than NFIP policies, especially for clients in low-to-moderate risk areas.

Key Takeaways

Now is the time to take action and help your clients understand their flood risk, coverage options, and the benefits of securing flood insurance through the NFIP or private insurers. By doing so, you’ll not only protect your clients’ investments but also strengthen your role as a knowledgeable and reliable insurance professional.

Rainbow CEO Bobby Touran and Agency Success Manager Naomi Brown are attending American Agents Alliance 2024 Conference in Palm Desert, California. Bobby

If you will be in attendance and would like to schedule time to connect, please reach out to Bobby or Naomi individually via LinkedIn.

Thanks to American Agents Alliance and their agents for being such a valuable partner and putting together these incredible events.

See you all in Palm Desert!