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Can I Get My Learner’s Permit Online in Hawaii?

Posted on May 30, 2025May 28, 2025 by admin

Reaching the legal age to operate a motor vehicle in Honolulu, HI, is a significant milestone in a young person’s life. It signifies their transition towards adulthood. As this important event approaches, our agents at Innovative Insurance Resources are ready to discuss insurance options to ensure everything is in place for legal driving in Hawaii.

When Can I Obtain My Learner’s Permit?

In Hawaii, a person can apply for a learner’s permit once they reach the age of 15 years and 6 months. The application process involves a written test consisting of 25 questions, with a time limit of one hour.

How Do I Take the Test Online?

All counties in Hawaii offer online testing for the learner’s permit. You can take the test at home, provided you follow the instructions. These include having access to a computer, mouse, and webcam. The test can only be taken on a laptop or desktop computer.

You will need to access the online driver’s exam, pay the fee using a credit card, and provide your identification. As you are under 18 years old, an adult over 18 with a current driver’s license must provide their identification and stay with you throughout the test. They must stay out of the webcam’s view, and you must remain on the test screen without interacting with the other person.

Once you pass the test, the next step is to schedule a driving test at a county center. You’ll have 30 days from the date you pass the test to complete the remaining requirements.

Contact Innovative Insurance Resources

Our team at Innovative Insurance Resources is committed to ensuring your first driving experience on the streets of Honolulu, HI, is a safe one. Call us so we can include you in your family’s insurance coverage, ensuring you’re ready to hit the road.

Does Commercial Insurance Protect Against Floods and Disasters?

Posted on April 30, 2025April 23, 2025 by admin

Operating a business in Honolulu, HI, necessitates comprehensive commercial insurance to safeguard against potential liabilities, damages, or injuries that might occur on your premises. As you set up your business in Hawaii, securing the appropriate insurance policy is vital for optimal protection. Regrettably, conventional commercial insurance does not cover floods and natural disasters. However, collaborating with an agency like Innovative Insurance Resources can help you find suitable policies that offer extended coverage when you need it the most.

Conventional Commercial Insurance

In Hawaii, conventional commercial insurance does not cover natural disasters, including significant floods. Traditional commercial insurance offers protection against fire, theft, and even vandalism in most cases. Currently, standard commercial insurance does not protect business owners from floods, hurricanes, or earthquakes that may occur in Hawaii.

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)

If you’re considering flood insurance in Hawaii, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) might be a good option. The National Flood Insurance Program covers flood damage and unexpected flooding disasters that could damage or infiltrate your business premises. Consulting with your preferred agency can help determine whether a federal program like NFIP is the right choice for you.

Private Flood Insurance

Securing private flood insurance is a viable option for business owners in Honolulu. Private insurance policies may offer more flexibility and customization. If you’re looking for an alternative to NFIP insurance policies, consider a private flood insurance add-on.

Whenever you’re starting a business, securing the right insurance policy is crucial for protection and peace of mind. If you’re based in Honolulu, HI, we’re here to assist. For more information, contact Innovative Insurance Resources so we can help design a commercial, flood, and disaster insurance policy that suits your needs.

Is Flood Insurance Included in Standard Home Insurance Policies in Honolulu?

Posted on March 28, 2025March 27, 2025 by admin

As a homeowner in Hawaii, it’s important to know that flood insurance is not standard in traditional policies. This is vital, as Hawaii is home to many natural disaster risks and potential floods. Although high-risk areas have at least a 1% chance of flooding, the peace of mind of flood insurance is priceless. At Innovative Insurance Resources in Honolulu, HI, we work with clients to ensure maximum coverage for their homes, year-round.

Am I at Risk?

Hawaii has plenty of natural disasters, making it critical for homeowners and tourists alike to remain vigilant year-round. Throughout the Hawaiian islands, there are high-risk areas, moderate (to low-risk) regions, and undetermined risk areas. The State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources Engineering Division provides a Flood Hazard Assessment Tool, or FHAT, to help those located in Hawaii determine their personal flood and disaster risk.

Flood Insurance is Separate

Unfortunately, a typical homeowner’s insurance policy does not provide flood insurance. However, it is possible to find a separate flood insurance policy via the National Flood Insurance Program, or NFIP. Flood insurance may also be obtained by working with private providers. Remember, there may be a 30-day waiting period (unless your selected policy is purchased at the same time as the closing of your new home). Flood insurance helps cover physical damage to your property and the replacement costs of lost damages.

Flood insurance in Honolulu, HI is imperative, whether you’re protecting your main home or a vacation property. At Innovative Insurance Resources, we’ll work with you to review your flood insurance policy options, coverage needs, and protection guarantees so you can maintain your sense of security. Contact us today to learn more about flood insurance for your Hawaii home or investment.

I Just Bought a New Car, Do I Need Gap Insurance?

Posted on February 28, 2025February 26, 2025 by admin

Buying a new car is exciting but comes with serious responsibilities. Before you drive off the lot in Honolulu, HI, you’ll need proof of insurance. But have you considered gap insurance?

What is Gap Insurance?

Gap, or guaranteed auto protection, is an add-on policy that protects your investment if your car is damaged beyond repair or stolen before you’ve paid off your car loan or lease. For example, if you get into an accident and the damage is beyond repair, your insurer may decide the car is a total loss and appraise it at its current market value.

But if your car is financed, you’re still responsible for any remaining balance on your vehicle beyond the appraised value. Gap insurance covers the difference between the appraised car value at the time of the incident and the total finance value of your loan. This would save you from paying out of pocket for that difference.

Gap Insurance Isn’t Always Optional

There are times when gap insurance isn’t optional. If you bought a car outright in cash, then gap insurance is optional. But if you financed your car, your lender may require gap insurance as a safety precaution. However, there are criteria to qualify for gap insurance. You must:

Be the original loan or leaseholder on a new vehicle
Have a vehicle currently covered by comprehensive and liability insurance

Research Insurance Agents in the Honolulu, HI Area

Do your research before agreeing to be insured by any agent. One trusted agent in the area is Clockwork Insurance Services. We can provide you with a quote and answer any questions you may have regarding this or other insurance services to put your mind at ease. We can also explain everything covered by the policy you are interested in.

Clockwork Insurance Services would be happy to answer any lingering questions you may have about jewelry insurance or any other policy you may need. Call us today for a quote.

Every Good Business Plan Includes Commercial Insurance Solutions

Posted on January 31, 2025January 30, 2025 by admin

There are many components to a successful business plan, including strategies to help companies survive catastrophic events like fires and natural disasters, as well as plans to protect companies from issues like downtime and liability concerns. That’s why many business owners in Honolulu, HI, rely on commercial insurance solutions from the trusted team at Innovative Insurance Resources to protect their businesses from a variety of potential risks. A solid business plan is an essential part of helping a company succeed, and it can also play a key role in helping companies survive, even when a crisis strikes.

Commercial Insurance and Successful Business Planning

A business plan covers many areas, from marketing and management styles to a company’s executive summary or mission statement. For many companies, commercial insurance solutions play a vital part in business planning, helping them deal with and manage major problems when they arise. This is why business owners in the beautiful Honolulu area work with experienced and knowledgeable agents to help them prepare and plan for worst-case scenarios and, more importantly, to keep their companies operational during the most daunting situations.

Insurance Solutions for Honolulu Area Business Owners

Every good business plan includes commercial insurance solutions. If you own or operate a Honolulu, HI-based company and would like to learn more about commercial insurance for your business, we’re here to help. Contact us to find out more and schedule an appointment with our friendly and professional team for the planning and protection your business needs and deserves at Innovative Insurance Resources today.

Home Insurance – Benefits Your Coverage Provides for Personal Property

Posted on December 31, 2024January 5, 2025 by admin

Your home insurance policy can protect the personal property stored in your home or on your property. Let’s explore the benefits associated with insuring your personal items.

What is Personal Property?

Personal property refers to any items you have purchased or received as a gift. The amount of personal property protection you acquire is entirely up to you.

Typically, a homeowner’s insurance policy will protect items of monetary value and items that hold sentimental value. Commonly insured items include heirlooms, collectibles, furnishings, and jewelry. Furnishings that would be difficult to replace may also be added to a home insurance policy.

What Does Insurance Cover?

Personal property insurance covers items that are unexpectedly damaged. Here are some situations in which personal property coverage would be beneficial to a homeowner:

Damage from inclement weather (hailstorms, hurricanes, etc.)
Loss of property due to theft
Damage from vandalism or other criminal activity

Filing an Insurance Claim

If any listed items on a home insurance policy are damaged or stolen, the property owner must contact an agent from the agency where the policy was acquired. The agent will initiate an insurance claim.

Insurance Assessment

An assessment will be conducted during the claims process to validate a home insurance claim.

The extent of damage will be determined. If any items are stolen from a residence, the person conducting the assessment may examine the police report associated with the incident. After an approved claim, affected personal possessions can be refurbished or replaced.

Contact an Insurance Agent in Honolulu, HI

Meet with one of our Innovative Insurance Resources agents for further assistance with a home insurance claim. An agent will explain your rights and benefits.

Things you should always have in your auto glove box

Posted on November 27, 2024November 26, 2024 by admin

Certain items are essential to keep in your glove box when you’re on the road. Some are legally required, while others are simply practical. At Innovative Insurance Resources in Honolulu, HI, we offer personalized service to ensure our customers have the right insurance for their needs at the right price.

Your Vehicle Registration

You’ll need your vehicle registration if you’re involved in an auto accident or pulled over for a traffic violation. The glove box is the safest place to store it.

Your Proof of Insurance

Hawaii state law requires at least minimum auto insurance for your vehicle. Your insurance carrier will provide a card you can print and keep as proof of insurance in your vehicle.

A Phone Charging Cord

It’s frustrating when your phone battery is about to die while you’re out and about. Keeping an extra charging cord in your glove box is as essential as having an insurance policy.

A Halo

What is a Halo? A charging unit can charge your vehicle battery, inflate your tires, and even power a laptop. It’s an instrumental piece of equipment to have in your vehicle.

A Snack

Keeping a bottle of water and a non-perishable snack can be a lifesaver if you’re stuck in traffic for hours or your vehicle breaks down.

Contact Innovative Insurance Resources in Honolulu, HI today to ensure your auto insurance provides the protection you need.

Disaster Assistance for Hawaii Businesses

Posted on October 28, 2024October 25, 2024 by admin

When you own a business, one of your responsibilities is to protect the assets of your business. To do so, you’ll need commercial insurance. If you live near Honolulu, HI, and you have questions about which types and amounts of commercial insurance your company needs, our team at Innovative Insurance Resources will take the time to discuss all your insurance options. Our experienced team has the knowledge and resources to find insurance solutions for every budget.

SBA Disaster Loans for Flood Damage

As a community-minded insurance company, we want our clients to be aware of resources that can help their businesses. For example, if your company sustained damage from the adverse weather conditions affecting the Honolulu area (as well as other nearby counties), on April 11-12, 2024, the SBA (Small Business Association) is offering low-interest federal disaster loans. The SBA is an agency of the U.S. government and declared those storms a disaster after a request from Hawaii’s governor, Josh Green.

According to the SBA’s website, loans are available to all area businesses, non-profit organizations, and homeowners with property damage from the disaster. You can find details on applying for these benefits on SBA’s website. Customer service agents are available at their District Loan Outreach Center in Kauai. The agents can answer all your questions and facilitate your completion of an application.

Call Us Today for Your Appointment

Whether you’re looking for property or liability policies, we can help you find the right one. You may also be looking for new employee health insurance or wonder if your workers’ compensation policy is the best choice for your company. Clients near Honolulu, HI, can feel confident when choosing their commercial insurance policies from Innovative Insurance Resources. Call us for an appointment today, and let us help you protect your business.

Insurance Coverage for A New Residential HVAC System

Posted on September 30, 2024September 29, 2024 by admin

Installing a new residential HVAC system may warrant additional insurance coverage. Begin by assessing the components of the new HVAC system you plan to install. Then, include these parts in your home insurance policy.

HVAC Components

Some of the primary HVAC components include the duct pieces, condenser unit, thermostat, heat exchange system, and evaporator coil. Many HVAC parts encompass mechanical equipment that could sustain damage over time.

Assessing your HVAC system can help you identify parts that are most prone to damage. These components should be protected under your home insurance policy.

For example, if the condenser unit is installed outdoors, it may be at risk of damage from falling tree limbs or adverse weather events. Based on the outcome of your assessment, decide which HVAC components need to be incorporated into your existing homeowner’s insurance policy.

System Upkeep

Regular maintenance of your HVAC system is imperative. Scheduled servicing could prevent premature damage to the unit, which could, in turn, reduce instances requiring you to file an insurance claim.

HVAC System Upgrades

If you choose to upgrade your HVAC system in the future, a subsequent assessment would be necessary. Different types of HVAC equipment may require various levels of insurance coverage.

Your Checklist

Incorporate your HVAC unit into a checklist that includes other household items insured. Employ this checklist during inspections of items covered by your existing home insurance policy.

Contact Innovative Insurance Resources for Insurance in Hawaii

If you need to insure your new HVAC system or have any questions about insurance, contact one of our agents at Innovative Insurance Resources. An agent serving Honolulu, HI, will gladly assist you with your home insurance questions or concerns.

Add-on to customize your auto insurance

Posted on August 30, 2024August 29, 2024 by admin

Auto insurance is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some people only need a basic policy, while others require full coverage. Additionally, there are plenty of special add-ons available to tailor your policy more precisely to your needs. At Innovative Insurance Resources in Honolulu, HI, our experienced team of independent insurance agents devotes time to providing the customized service you deserve.

Gap Coverage

If you own a newer vehicle and have a loan, and unfortunately, your vehicle encounters an accident and is considered a total loss, the Blue Book price may be lower than what you still owe. This situation would mean you end up paying for a vehicle you no longer possess. Having gap insurance ensures that there is no gap between what you receive from insurance and what you owe.

Full Glass

Comprehensive coverage usually includes glass coverage, but it also comes with a deductible. By adding full glass coverage to your auto policy, you can replace your windshield without any financial outlay.

Rental Car

Rental car coverage can be very beneficial if your car is damaged in an accident and you need to drop it off at the repair shop. It provides you with a rental car so that you can continue your normal activities without any disruptions.

Roadside service

Roadside service is similar to the services offered by an auto club. It covers assistance such as jump-starting your battery or changing a flat tire. Additionally, it provides a towing service if you break down or have an accident.

If you have questions or concerns about your auto insurance coverage, contact our office at Innovative Insurance Resources in Honolulu, HI.