September is Life Insurance Awareness month, and AAA Western and Central New York has important insurance tips to assist consumers. Life insurance needs change based on major life events, so it’s important to review coverage regularly. Here are AAA’s five most important tips to ensure policy owners keep up with their ever-changing needs.

1. Make note of your major moments
It’s important to reassess life events that may require changes to policy coverage such as:

•    Accruing new debt
•    Buying a home
•    Changing jobs
•    Getting married
•    Having a baby
•    Having health changes
•    Planning to retire
•    Receiving an inheritance

AAA also has tailored advice for empty nesters, retirees, or those looking to retire.

"We have many different options available to our members, whether it's someone looking for a whole life policy to cover end of life expenses or term life coverage for more immediate needs like paying off a house or college costs," said AAA Insurance Sales Operations Manager David Kirst.

2. Analyze your life insurance policy
Reexamining life insurance coverage annually is helpful. Key items to examine are:

•    How much do you have? 
•    Who is covered? 
•    What kind of policy will fit me best? 
•    Are you paying for any supplemental insurance? 
     o    If so, how much coverage does it offer?

These questions will help paint a picture to evaluate all of your options.

"Our Insurance Advisors spend time getting to know you, determine what your specific needs are, and then tailor a life insurance plan that is affordable while also covering your needs," Kirst said.

3. Ask yourself: Is my work coverage enough?
Perhaps you have life insurance coverage through your employer. The coverage may not be enough, and does not guarantee you and your family will have adequate coverage. Typically, employers provide the minimum amount of coverage – often only 1 or 2 times your yearly salary, while many people use 7 times their annual salary as a starting point.

Additionally, if you change jobs, employer-provided life insurance does not travel with you. That’s why AAA recommends an individual policy through a third party is ideal as you’re in control no matter what happens with your job.

4. Keep your details updated
See that your address and contact information are up to date – to make it easier for your life insurance provider to contact you or notify you of any changes to your accounts.

5. Take the time for what matters most
Keep your family protected with just a little extra effort with ample life insurance coverage. By taking extra time to examine your policy, you’ll have the confidence of knowing how much coverage you should have to help protect those most important to you.

"I always tell people, especially when it comes to life insurance, consider your options sooner rather than later," said Kirst. "You don't want to wait until something happens and it's too late."

After considering these five tips, contact a AAA Insurance agent to discuss customized life insurance options. AAA Western and Central New York offers a variety of insurance products: auto, home, renters, life, commercial, motorcycle, RV, pet, and Medicare.