Newlywed Checklist
You had a checklist for the perfect wedding. Now that the big day is over, you’re ready for the next step: the “to do” list after the “I do’s.”
We’ve put together the definitive checklist so that you won’t miss a thing as you transition into married life. It’ll be a piece of cake – pun intended – after planning a wedding. Remember, you’ve got this.
- Take care of the post-wedding details.
The wedding may be over, but there are likely some details that still need to be addressed. You’ll want to take care of them in a timely fashion, but most can wait until after the honeymoon.
- Returned rented clothing and items. Take your wedding dress to be cleaned, boxed, and preserved.
- Pay outstanding vendor bills. Many wedding vendors require payment on the day of your event, but for those who will bill you, make sure to pay them promptly.
- Order photos. Set aside several hours to review your photos and choose the top 20-30. Then create a flow that tells the story of the day from start to finish.
- Send thank you notes within 3 months of the wedding. Consider alternatives to handwritten notes, such as postcards with a photo of the wedding and a heartfelt sentiment.
- Request your marriage certificate.
This is not to be confused with your marriage license, which is the legal document that allows you to get married. A marriage certificate is legal proof that you are married. It often has a raised seal.
- After the ceremony, it is the responsibility of your officiant to bring the marriage license to the county clerk so that a marriage certificate may be generated.
- Contact the county clerk’s office and order 3-5 certified copies. Note that there will be a charge for each one that you request.
- Arrange to have the copies mailed, or for you to pick them up.
- Legally change your name (optional).
If you plan to change your name, there is a process to follow.
- You will need your marriage certificate to apply for a new social security card. That’s the first step in changing your name.
- Once you have a social security card, you can take that, your marriage certificate, and proof of address and visit the Department of Motor Vehicles for an updated driver’s license. You are now ready to use your new ID to update your name on your financial accounts. (See below.)
- You also may want to update your name on your social media accounts.
Pro Tip: If you don’t want to take the time to do it yourself, there are companies that provide name change services for a fee.
- Alert your employer.
If you changed your name and/or your address, you want to alert your employer so that they have the correct information on file.
- Provide a copy of your new driver’s license to your employer, which will include your new name and/or address.
- Make sure your employer has updated bank deposit information for payroll, health insurance, and your 401K.
- Request new business cards and/or an updated email address.
- Update your financial accounts.
Your financial accounts need to be updated if you changed your name and/or address. In addition, this is a good opportunity to take stock of your finances, create a budget, and how you will move forward as a married couple.
- Provide a copy of your marriage certificate, updated driver’s license, and proof of address to update the information at your bank.
- Do the same for any loans, such as car loans and mortgage providers, and for your credit cards.
- Set up a joint bank account if desired. Order checks with your married name and address.
- Update or change your insurance.
Now that you’re married, you will want to update your homeowner’s or renter’s policy and auto insurance so you’re together on the same policy.
- Contact your insurance provider to update them on your new name, address, and marital status. You will need to do this even if you do not change your name.
- Determine what changes need to be made on your homeowner’s or renter’s and car insurance policies. If you had individual policies previously, you would want to cancel them and have a new policy written for both of you.
- You may qualify for discounts through bundling Don’t forget to ask about those.
- Alert your service providers.
You’ll also want to update your service providers with your new name and address.
- Contact the utility providers for your home, including gas, electric, water, and Internet.
- Make a list of your doctors and other medical providers and alert them with new information, including updated health insurance if applicable.
- Update your memberships and subscriptions with any new information.
- Notify the government.
You’ll want to make sure that your married name is listed with your local town and various government agencies.
- If you own your home, check with the town/county clerk, and make sure your married name is listed on the property deed. This should also put your correct name on property taxes and sewer bills.
- Update your name (and if needed, address) with the post office and with your state’s voter registration.
- File for a new government-issued passport in your married name so that you’ll be ready for your next adventure.
- Merge your stuff.
You brought stuff to the marriage and so did your partner. Likely, you have duplicates. Now is a good time to decide what to keep and what to give away or sell. There are many Free Cycle and Buy Nothing Groups to donate right in your local community.
- Sell or donate your wedding dress, wedding décor, and any other wedding-related supplies that you no longer need.
- Go through your household items to look for duplicates. Decide to regift or sell.
- Return any unwanted wedding gifts within 2 months. You may use the credit with the store to buy the items you still need.
- Make a newlywed bucket list.
The wedding may be over, but your adventures are just beginning. To help with the post-wedding blues, create your newlywed bucket list and start planning.
- Make a list of the things you’d like to do together. Then choose a few you’d like to try sooner rather than later.
- Remember that it doesn’t have to be costly. You just spent a lot on a wedding and honeymoon. Maybe it’s hosting your first dinner party as a married couple or trying out a new hobby together.
- Plan a one-year anniversary vacation. Follow these pro tips to save money when you travel. You’ll have a year to save for the trip, and it will be another wonderful celebration of your new life together.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
What to Ask Your Home Inspector
A home inspection is an important part of buying and selling a home. In fact, it can make or break a sale. That’s why the questions you ask your home inspector are so important.
We’ve compiled a list of questions so you can get the most out of your home inspection. Keep this list handy and share it with anyone who is buying or selling a home.
First, a quick explanation about home inspections vs. home appraisals…
It’s easy to confuse home inspections with home appraisals. The processes are similar.
- A home inspector looks at the condition of a home and its systems, from electrical and plumbing to heating and ventilation, foundation, and more. He or she points out any areas of major concern. These are repairs that can be negotiated before the home is sold. Otherwise, the home inspection report is a “to do” list for the future homeowner.
- A home appraiser’s job is to estimate the value of the home. He or she looks at the condition of the house and notes any upgrades. The appraiser compares the home to similar ones in the area. Then, they establish a value and share it with the lender. That way the loan amount does not exceed the value of the home.
Most lenders require home inspections for loan approval. If you’re buying a home, the home inspection helps you know exactly what you’re getting. If you’re selling a home, you may consider doing a pre-listing home inspection. That can flag any major issues that could cause buyers to withdraw their offer.
Here’s what to ask your home inspector before and during the inspection.
What are your credentials?
Maybe your realtor referred you to a home inspector. Maybe you found him or her through Google, a Facebook neighbors’ group, or old-fashioned word of mouth. Either way, you want to make sure your home inspector has the right training and experience.
- How long have you been doing this?
- Do you belong to a state or national association?
- Do you participate in any continuing education?
- Are you bonded and insured? (If anything happens to the property during an inspection, the bond will protect the homeowner.)
- May I get references from satisfied clients?
- May I get a copy of your inspector’s license and insurance?
What are the payment details?
Home inspection is a service that is paid for by the person requesting the inspection. It could be the prospective homebuyer, or it could be the seller who wants to make sure everything is in order before placing the home on the market. Home inspection costs vary, depending on the region, size, and age of the house.
- What will the home inspection cost?
- When do you need payment? (Most inspectors will need payment immediately after the inspection.)
- What type of payment do you prefer?
What does the report look like?
You want to know what you’re purchasing ahead of time, and an easy way to do that is to see a sample inspection report. You’ll be able to see your inspector’s reporting style, whether there are pictures, etc.
- Can I see a sample report?
- Do you provide digital photos?
- How long after the inspection do you provide the report?
- How do you send it?
What does the inspection cover?
A home inspection should comply with standard practice and meet all requirements in your state. If you live in a condo, your inspector does not have to inspect the common spaces, roof, or exterior walls. For single family homes and townhomes, you can expect the full home to be reviewed. However, this may not include radon or mold, so double check if you need additional inspections for those hazards.
- Do you walk the roof? (It’s better if your inspector does. Some just use binoculars to eyeball any roof damage.)
- Do you do sewer line or septic tank inspections?
- Do you test for radon or mold?
- Do you test for lead (for homes built before 1978)?
- Do you test for carbon monoxide or check the smoke detectors?
- What does the inspection not cover?
May I attend?
You should be allowed to attend your home inspection, and it’s a good idea. (It’s also a red flag if your inspector says you are not allowed. Consider getting another inspector.) It takes about 2-3 hours for a typical single family home inspection, so be sure to allocate enough time. Come prepared with a list of questions. This is a great learning experience about your new home.
- Where is the main water shutoff?
- Where is the main electrical breaker?
- What is the age of the home’s systems? The roof?
- What is the routine maintenance needed for each of the home’s systems?
- What kind of pipes does the home’s plumbing system have (e.g. copper, CPVC water piping or polybutylene)? Polybutylene is defective water piping that is no longer being made.
- Are there any ungrounded outlets? These can become a fire hazard or short-circuit your appliances.
- Is the home well insulated? This will impact your energy bill.
- Does the home appear to be a flip (and therefore lower quality materials used in the renovation)?
Pro Tip: Verify that all permits have been pulled by the city or county for any renovations to the home. Failure to do so can tip you off that there were corners cut.
What should I do about the problems identified?
If you’re the buyer, you can use the problems as a negotiating point with the seller. If the problems are too costly, or living conditions are unsafe, you could walk away from the sale. While some states and associations forbid an inspector from performing repairs, you can ask your home inspector for guidance.
- Can you recommend a professional for this repair?
- What would you fix first if this were your home?
- Will you answer questions after the inspection?
- Do you perform re-inspections of a home to make sure everything is fixed? Not all inspectors do this due to liability issues.
With a successful inspection behind you, you’re ready to take the next step as a new homeowner. Protect your new home with the right insurance. Looking for a quote? Call us today.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com
Graduation – When to Remove Your Child from Your Auto Policy
Your son or daughter has graduated college and is ready to start his or her adult life. Is now a good time to take them off your car insurance?
It’s a decision that many parents tend to put off. Unlike health insurance, there is no maximum age for children on a vehicle policy. As long as they live with you, and drive a car you own, they could remain on your policy indefinitely. However, you may also choose to remove them, and that’s the case even if they do live with you. Here are some reasons why you might consider it.
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- It will likely save you money. It is more costly to insure younger, less experienced drivers and so removing them from your policy will likely lower your premium.
- It will teach your child responsibility. Car insurance premiums are usually among the first bills that a young person is responsible for paying.
- It can improve their credit score. Paying the premiums on time will help build your child’s credit score.
- You both may qualify for a multi-vehicle household bundles or discounts.
- In some cases, children move to a new address and don’t update their auto insurance right away. Getting your child his or her own policy will ensure that there is no gap in coverage when they move out.
When you need to remove your child
If you’re thinking about removing your child from your auto policy, read on. We’ve compiled a list of situations when it is recommended that young adults have their own policy.
Your son or daughter no longer lives with you.
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- Your policy is tied to your home address. If your child has moved away, they can’t be on your policy.
- If, however, your son or daughter is simply living at college, their home address is likely still yours. That allows them to remain on your policy, with some modifications.
- If the college is enough of a distance away, and they are not driving, the insurance premium may be temporarily discounted or reduced.
- If they take their car to college, the new location will be incorporated in the premium quote.
Your son or daughter is covered under another auto policy.
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- The car that your child drives can only go on one policy. If your son or daughter is covered under another policy, such as in cases of separation or divorce, you do not need to pay for a second policy.
- If your son or daughter lives mostly at one location, your teen may be listed on the policy at that home.
- If your son or daughter regularly parks his or her car at both parents’ homes, your child will still be covered at both locations under one policy.
Your child has bought his/her own car.
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- Insurance companies generally require that any vehicles on your policy be in the primary policyholder’s name.
- If your child buys his/her own car, the insurer may require a separate policy.
- If you do not get a separate policy, then you remain the primary policyholder. If your child gets into an accident with his/her car, and the claim is covered, the check will be written to you.
How to remove your child from your policy
1. Contact your insurer. Ask to have your child removed from the policy.
Insurance companies usually require you to list all household members of driving age when you apply for, or renew, your policy. If your child gets his or her own policy, and still lives at home, you will need to exclude them from your coverage. That means they won’t be covered in an accident even if they had an occasional use with permission. Note that you may be charged a fee or excluding a driver that lives in your household.
2. Provide proof of other insurance.
When you remove your child from your policy, your insurer will require proof that your child has his/her own policy. You can choose to get a new policy with your current insurer and maybe take advantage of household discounts. You also could change insurance companies. Make sure to set up the timing so that one policy kicks in when the other one lapses.
3. Provide proof of new address.
If your child has moved to a new address, your insurer may ask for proof of residence. This may include a utility bill or other authorized mail.
Talk to your insurer about options so that you can find the best fit for your family, and also meet state and insurance requirements.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
How to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft
You’ve probably heard of someone stealing a catalytic converter, but never thought it could happen to you in your neighborhood. Well, think again…
The number of catalytic converter thefts reported in insurance company claims has greatly increased over the past three years, and the National Insurance Crime Bureau estimates that these thefts increased by 1,215% between 2019 and 2022. Stolen catalytic converters can garner anywhere from $20 to $350 on the black market, with the replacement cost to vehicle owners averaging over $2,500 according to the National Automobile Dealers Association.
What are catalytic converters?
Catalytic converters are part of your car’s exhaust system. They turn harmful emissions into harmless gases. These essential car parts contain precious metals like platinum, palladium or rhodium, which can be worth hundreds to thousands of dollars when sold to scrap yards. Catalytic converters are especially attractive to thieves because they are not easily tracked. Plus, they can be removed from your vehicle in a matter of minutes.
What vehicles are thieves targeting?
Any car manufactured after 1974 has a catalytic converter, and is a potential target. However, thieves often look for taller vehicles like pickup trucks or SUVs because they can slide underneath them more easily. They also look for hybrids, which have a greater supply of those precious metals in their catalytic converters. The only vehicle without a catalytic converter is an electric vehicle (EV).
What steps can you take to prevent a theft?
You want to make it more difficult for thieves to steal your catalytic converter, and harder for them to profit if they do. Here are some of the most popular ways to help prevent a theft.
Keep things well-lit and secure.
For thefts that occur at night, keeping your property lit up could be a deterrent. Install motion sensor lights in your driveway which could surprise a thief and potentially scare him away. A home security system with visible cameras also can help prevent thefts.
Park in the right place.
Park in your locked garage if you have one, or in your driveway. Avoid street parking that is beyond the scope of your security cameras. If you’re in a public space, choose the first row of parking spaces near the building. These are generally the ones that are well lit and covered by the building’s security camera. They have the added advantage of being the places where people are most likely to pass by.
Pro Tip: For cars with lower clearances, you might find that parking on hills, gravel or uneven surfaces can help make it harder for thieves to get underneath. They may pass by your car for a converter on another vehicle that’s easier to reach.
Mark your converter.
Etch your car’s VIN or license plate number onto your catalytic converter. This will help alert scrap dealers that it’s a stolen part. While thieves could file off the etching, the filing marks will still be noticeable. Alternatively, paint your catalytic converter a bright color. It’s unsellable in that condition; thieves will have to clean off the paint, which is a time-consuming process. They may decide not to bother with your catalytic converter and look elsewhere.
Install an anti-theft device.
Aftermarket devices can be installed that make it difficult or impossible to remove a catalytic converter. These include cages, panels and shields. You can weld the bolts of your converter so they cannot be turned. You also can weld your converter in place. Add a warning sticker on your vehicle’s window saying that your car has an anti-theft device. Thieves will see it and take notice.
Add an alarm.
You can install a motion sensor alarm that will go off if someone is using a vibrating power tool on your car. It’s easy to install. The downside is that it’s also easy to remove, and so it may not be the deterrent you want.
Start a neighborhood watch group.
Catalytic converter theft is often a crime where a whole neighborhood is targeted on a single night. Forming a neighborhood watch group will help prevent a series of thefts. Set up a text chain and share information from your doorbell and security cameras. Report suspicious behavior, such as unknown cars circling the block. If you see someone tampering with vehicles on your street, report it immediately to the police—and alert your neighbors.
How do you know if your converter is stolen?
You don’t have to know cars to know when your catalytic converter is stolen. You’ll hear it as soon as you start your car. It will make a loud roar which will become even louder when you accelerate. Your car also may sputter. It will not drive smoothly. You may notice an increase in exhaust and/or exhaust smells. The check engine light may go on. The theft may have been silent and secretive, but the aftermath is not.
The cost to replace a catalytic converter can be pricey, but if you have comprehensive insurance for your vehicle, that will help to cover the replacement part, after the deductible has been met. Make sure that your auto insurance policy is up to date and that you are fully covered should anything happen.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.