SouthGroup Gulf Coast - Your Trusted Choice: 2026

Thursday, May 7, 2026

May 6-7 Storm Response and Claims Tips - Mississippi Insurance Department

May 6-7 Storm Response and Claims Tips

JACKSON, Miss. — If your home was damaged in the May 6-7 storms, now is the time to take action. The Mississippi Insurance Department (MID) suggests that you know your deductible, assess your damages, and then determine whether you need to file a claim with your insurance company.

If you need assistance with an insurance question or claim, call MID at 601-359-3569 or

1-800-562-2957, email consumer@mid.ms.gov or visit www.mid.ms.gov

Follow these steps when filing a claim:

· Prepare to file an insurance claim by gathering all relevant policy numbers.

· File your claim as soon as possible. Your policy may require that you make the notification within a certain time period.

· Be aware that if a widespread disaster has occurred, the company may set up special procedures.

· Be sure you cooperate fully with the insurance company. Ask what documents, forms, and data you will need to file a claim.

· Keep a record of all conversations with insurance companies, creditors, or relief agencies.

· If you are not staying on the property, make sure your insurance representative knows where and how to contact you.

· If your home is damaged to the extent that you can’t live there, ask your insurance company if you have coverage for additional living expenses.

· Take photographs/video of the damage. Inventory your home for damaged or lost items before your adjustor arrives. This will speed up your claim process.

· Make the repairs necessary to prevent further damage to your property (cover broken windows, leaking roofs, and damaged walls).

· Don’t have permanent repairs made until your insurance company has inspected the property and you have reached an agreement on the cost of repairs.

· Be prepared to provide the claims adjuster with records of any improvements you made before the damage.

· Maintain any damaged personal property for the adjuster to inspect.

· Ask the adjuster for an itemized explanation of the claim settlement offer.

· Be patient and assist claims adjusters assigned to your case. Small losses may be settled quickly; extensive claims will take longer.

· Save all receipts, including those from the temporary repairs covered by your insurance policy.

Media Contact:

Beth Reiss

Communications Director

601-359-2403

beth.reiss@mid.ms.gov

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About The Mississippi Insurance Department

The mission of the Mississippi Insurance Department is to impartially enforce state laws and regulations to create a competitive marketplace for the sale of insurance products and services while providing the State’s citizens with the maximum amount of consumer protection. We aim to create the highest degree of economic security, quality of life, public safety, and fire protection for the State’s citizens at the lowest possible cost.

Mississippi Insurance Department

501 N. West St, 1001 Woolfolk Building, Jackson, MS 39201

601-359-3569

www.mid.ms.gv

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Friday, May 1, 2026

What Insurance Do I Need in My 60s and 70s?

Your 60s are a time to enjoy the rewards of decades of hard work—but they also come with new financial and health considerations. As you enter your 70s, your insurance needs shift from income protection to preserving your health, assets, and legacy. As retirement approaches or begins, insurance becomes a vital part of protecting your lifestyle, your loved ones, and your legacy. Here’s a guide to the key insurance needs for this stage of life:

1. Medicare and Supplemental Health Insurance

Most Americans become eligible for Medicare at age 65. While Medicare covers many healthcare costs, it doesn’t cover everything. Consider a Medigap policy to help with deductibles, copays, and services not covered by traditional Medicare. Review your options annually to ensure your plan fits your evolving health needs.

2. Long-Term Care Insurance

The likelihood of needing long-term care increases with age. Long-term care insurance helps cover the cost of assisted living, nursing homes, or in-home care—expenses that can quickly deplete retirement savings. Purchasing coverage in your early 60s can help lock in lower premiums and broader benefits. Whole Life Insurance and Annuities may provide needed future funding for health needs.

3. Life Insurance

If you still have financial dependents or want to leave a legacy, life insurance remains important. Permanent life insurance can also be used for estate planning or to cover final expenses. If you no longer need coverage, consider whether surrendering or converting your policy makes sense.

4. Homeowners and Auto Insurance

Ensure your home and auto policies reflect current values and offer sufficient liability protection. If your home is paid off, you may be tempted to reduce coverage—but maintaining full protection is wise, especially if you plan to age in place.

5. Umbrella Insurance

Umbrella insurance provides extra liability coverage beyond your home and auto policies. It’s a smart way to protect your retirement savings from unexpected lawsuits or claims.

6. Travel Insurance

If retirement means more travel, consider travel insurance for trip cancellations, medical emergencies abroad, and lost luggage. It’s a small investment for peace of mind while exploring the world.

Final Thoughts Your 60s and 70s are about enjoying life while safeguarding your financial future. Reviewing and adjusting your insurance portfolio ensures you’re prepared for life’s uncertainties and can focus on what matters most—health, family, and freedom.

Angelyn Zeringue is President of SouthGroup Insurance Services, a CPA, PWCAM, CBIA, and licensed Trusted Choice Insurance Agent. Reach Angelyn at www.southgroupgulfcoast.com, (228) 385-1177, azeringue@southgroup.net.

Your Trusted Choice Insurance Agent, SouthGroup Insurance Gulf Coast wants you to know you can call on us with your questions or concerns seeking more helpful advice or answers to your pressing insurance questions. A full insurance review is always your best bet to make sure you have all of the adequate coverage for your personal insurance needs. Remember, we offer a personalized insurance review to anyone who is interested at no charge – just visit any one of our convenient locations!

To help you through the maze of coverages, carriers, premiums, and find ways to save money on your insurance, if you are on the Gulf Coast, contact your Trusted Choice agent, SouthGroup-Gulf Coast http://www.southgroupgulfcoast.com/ , SERVICE TEAM: Angelyn Treutel Zeringue, Tammy Garfield, Tammy Hogue, Melissa Dunn, Anne Gillam, Mark Strickland, Joseph Eagle, Michael Scardino, Melinda Teaford, Wendy Butler, Gabriella Scardino, Tiffany Nguyen, Alexa Weldon, Denise Pickers and Brittany Eagle at SouthGroup Gulf Coast. You can reach us by snail-mail: 412 Hwy 90, Suite 6, Bay St Louis MS 39520, email: info@southgroupgulfcoast.com, phone or text:228-466-4498 or 228-385-1177, fax:888-415-8922, FaceBook www.facebook.com/southgroup.gulfcoast , or Twitter www.twitter.com/atreutel ! We now have more locations to serve you - 2505 Pass Road - Biloxi and 412 Hwy 90 Ste 6-Bay Saint Louis, MS.

We offer the following Lines of Coverage: Workers Compensation, Auto, Home, Life, Health, Disability, Motorcycle, Boat, Wind, Flood, Commercial Property, General Liability, Directors and Officers Liability, Bonds, Group and Individual Life/Health/Dental/Disability/ Vision/Long Term Care, Business Owners, Builders Risk, Commercial Crime, Errors and Omissions, Dwelling Fire, Commercial Flood, Group Accident, Garage Dealers, Inland Marine, Law Enforcement Liability, Pollution Liability, Professional Liability, Personal Umbrella, Commercial Fire, Commercial Umbrella, Excess Flood, Identity Theft, more…

We serve Alabama - District of Columbia - Florida -Georgia - Indiana - Kentucky - Louisiana - Michigan - Mississippi - Missouri - North Carolina - Ohio - Pennsylvania - South Carolina - Tennessee - Texas – Virginia. We specialize in coastal exposures.
Insurance is stressful, but we make saving easy. We help you save money on insurance! Save time, money and stress!
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Wednesday, April 1, 2026

What Insurance Do I Need When I Am in My 50s?

Your 50s are a critical time for financial planning. With retirement on the horizon, children becoming independent, and aging parents possibly needing care, insurance plays a critical role in protecting your assets and ensuring peace of mind. Here’s a guide to the essential insurance coverage you should review and consider during this decade.

1. Health Insurance

Health care costs tend to rise with age. If you're still working, take full advantage of employer-sponsored health plans. If you’re self-employed or transitioning to retirement, explore marketplace options or early Medicare planning. Consider supplemental policies that cover dental, vision, and long-term prescriptions.

2. Life Insurance

If you still have dependents or outstanding debts, maintaining life insurance is important. Term policies may be expiring, so review your coverage. Permanent life insurance can also serve as a financial tool, offering cash value and estate planning benefits.

3. Long-Term Care Insurance

This is one of the most important types of coverage to consider in your 50s. Long-term care insurance helps cover the cost of assisted living, nursing homes, or in-home care—expenses that aren’t typically covered by health insurance or Medicare. Buying early can lock in lower premiums and broader coverage.

4. Disability Insurance

While some may think disability coverage is only for younger workers, it’s still relevant if you're working into your 60s. A long-term disability policy can protect your income if illness or injury prevents you from working during your peak earning years.

5. Homeowners and Auto Insurance

Ensure your coverage reflects the current value of your home and vehicles. Consider increasing liability limits and adding umbrella insurance to protect your growing assets from lawsuits or major claims.

6. Umbrella Insurance

This extra layer of liability protection is especially valuable in your 50s, when your net worth is likely higher. It covers claims that exceed your home or auto policy limits and can safeguard your retirement savings.

Final Thoughts Your 50s are about securing your financial future and preparing for life’s next chapter. Reviewing and updating your insurance portfolio ensures you’re protected from unexpected setbacks and positioned for a comfortable retirement. Consult with a Trusted Choice advisor to tailor coverage to your evolving needs.

Sunday, March 1, 2026

What Insurance Do I Need When I Am In My 40s?

Life is flying by... the kids are growing and getting on with their own lives, but life is fun. You are traveling more, and you have more toys. Life is enjoyable and exhilarating! Your 40s are often a time of peak responsibility—career advancement, raising children, caring for aging parents, and building long-term financial security. With so much at stake, having the right insurance coverage is essential to protect what you’ve worked hard to build. Take the time to review and be certain you have the right insurance for your protection. here are some things you need to know to make an informed decision, suggested by www.businessinsider.com.

Purchasing a Vacation Home?  You will need a policy to protect the structure of your vacation home, your liability exposure, and any personal belongings. Your Trusted Choice agent will work with your realtor and your lender and will assist you in determining the appropriate Replacement Cost to protect your vacation home from natural disasters and other risks.  Ask about discounts and credits you can apply to your policy for bundling policies with the same carrier.

Got Toys? Be sure you have your expensive toys insured. Now is the time for motorcycle insurance and boat insurance. Even golf carts and ATVs and jet skis need coverage. Any large purchases of jewelry and furs and artwork should be added as a Scheduled Item on your home policy.

Looking to the future?  The younger you are when you purchase Long Term Care protection, the lower your rate will be. This insurance covers people who are aging or disabled and need help with daily living whether in a nursing home or at their own home. Also consider whole life insurance which can provide you with flexibility as you age and have to deal with catastophic situations.  Your income is your most valuable asset. Disability insurance protects you if illness or injury prevents you from working. Many employers offer basic coverage, but consider supplementing with a private policy for more comprehensive protection.

Got to have an Umbrella!  You have much to lose, and if you now have young drivers, your odds of a loss are significantly higher.  An umbrella will give you extended protection over your underlying policies. Your Trusted Choice agent will offer you options to enhance your protection.

Final Thoughts Insurance in your 40s is about protecting your family and securing your financial future. Regularly review your coverage with a trusted advisor to ensure it evolves with your life. A little planning today can prevent major setbacks tomorrow.

Sunday, February 1, 2026

What Insurance Do I Need When I Am In My 30s?

Another decade of your active life... time for settling in with a new home and family and growth in your assets. Life is stressful but fulfilling. Your 30s are often a time of major life milestones—career growth, homeownership, marriage, and starting a family. With these changes come new responsibilities, and insurance becomes more important than ever. Having the right coverage ensures that you’re protecting your income, assets, and loved ones from unexpected events. You realize you have more responsibilities and more at risk. Do you have the right insurance for your protection? Maybe yes, and maybe no --- here are some things you need to know to make an informed decision, suggested by www.businessinsider.com.

Ready to close on a New Home? Homeowners insurance is required to protect the structure of your home, your liability exposure, and your belongings. Your Trusted Choice agent will work with your realtor and your lender and will assist you in determining the appropriate Replacement Cost to protect your home and belonging from fire, theft tornadoes, flood and other natural disasters. Liability coverage will protect you if a visitor is injured on your property Also ask about discounts and credits you can apply to your policy for well-maintaining your property and removing hazards, as well as fortifying your home to protect against perils, and making your home more energy efficient.

Increasing the size of your family? Life insurance and Disability Insurance should be on your horizon for the future needs of those you love if you should be injured of die. Check with your Trusted Choice Agent for options. Calculate your coverage needs at www.lifehappens.org

How Are You Feeling? Comprehensive health insurance is a must. Look for plans that offer good coverage for preventive care, chronic conditions, and family needs. If you're planning to start a family, review maternity and pediatric benefits closely. If someone depends on your income—like a spouse, child, or aging parent—life insurance is essential. Term life insurance is affordable and provides coverage for a set period, often 20 or 30 years. It can help pay off debts, replace lost income, and cover future expenses like college tuition.

Cruising in a Fun Family Vehicle or Nice Ride? By your 30s, you may be driving a more valuable vehicle or have a family to protect. Make sure your auto policy includes adequate liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. Consider bundling with home insurance for discounts.

Ready for a Umbrella? As you accumulate assets and wealth, you have more to lose, so you should look at adding a low cost umbrella insurance policy to your portfolio which will give you extended protection over your underlying policies. Your Trusted Choice agent will offer you options to enhance your protection.

Thursday, January 1, 2026

What Insurance Do I Need When I Am in My 20s?

Life speeds by... you have fun and work hard in college, get a degree, and you open your eyes and find yourself out on your own. You must make your own decisions and embrace life. You have a new job and are finalizing major purchases. Do you need insurance for your protection? Maybe yes, and maybe no --- here are some things you need to know to make an informed decision.

Buying a New Car?  You will definitely need auto insurance, but the rate varies based on the make and model of vehicle. Before you make your final decision, check with your Trusted Choice agent to find out which of your favorite models is the least expensive to insure. Also ask about discounts and credits you can apply to your policy for good grades, safe driving record, and more.

Getting a New Apartment?  Renters insurance is highly recommended and is very inexpensive. Liability coverage will protect you from property damage or injuries if something bad happens on your property. Contents coverage protects your furniture and electronics in the event of a fire or theft. Check with your Trusted Choice Agent for options.

Hunting For A New Job?  At every age, health insurance is highly recommended. The cost is less when you are young, and will protect you in the event of an unfortunate accident. Ask your employer what is offered, and take advantage of wellness programs. If your employer does not provide the coverage, discuss with your Trusted Insurance Advisor.

Walking Down the Aisle?  Many things change when you combine households. Combining auto policies may even save you money. Look into a Wedding Event Policy to protect yourself from liability exposure and problems with your venue or cancellations. You will want to be sure that your new beautiful ring is covered too!

Thinking You Will Live Forever? Even if you’re healthy, health insurance is non-negotiable. A single emergency room visit can cost thousands. If you're not covered under a parent's plan, explore employer-sponsored options or marketplace plans. Look for coverage that includes preventive care, mental health services, and prescriptions. You might think life insurance is only for older adults, but buying a term life policy in your 20s can lock in low rates. It’s especially important if you have student loans with a co-signer or dependents who rely on your income.

Taking a Big Trip? For frequent travelers, especially internationally, travel insurance can cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind on your adventures

Final Thoughts Insurance might not be the most exciting part of adulting, but it’s one of the most important. A little planning now can save you from major financial headaches later. Talk to a trusted advisor to tailor coverage to your lifestyle and goals.

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