Ohio DOI

The Ohio DOI continues to offer valuable support to Ohio residents with questions on insurance. They provide information on auto insurance, health insurance, life insurance, homeowners insurance and even more. They even have an online toolkit that is worth checking out.

Ohio senior citizens can turn to the DOI for assistance at any time. The Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program is a completely free benefit for Ohio citizens which provides accurate information on insurance programs and Medicare. There are free seminars to attend and representatives to talk to.

With all the misinformation out there on insurance in general it's very beneficial to have a team of professionals looking out for the consumer. As health care reform approaches there will be even more confusion with insurance so knowing you have someone to turn to with accurate information is very reassuring.

Ohio DOI Bringing Value to the Buckeye State

The Ohio Department of Insurance offers many valuable services for the residents of Ohio. The Ohio DOI has the important function of licensing insurance agents and brokers to ensure practices are consistent. They provide the exams and monitor the important continuing education since insurance laws are constantly changing.

The Ohio DOI has a unique online system the enables quick and simplified testing, fingerprinting, background checks and licensing distribution. Agents can also keep track of their mandatory credits needed in education.

Another very important function of the Ohio DOI is making information easily available to consumers. They offer an online toolkit specifically designed for those who are looking for health insurance or life insurance because of job loss or loss of benefits. There are numerous programs available to these consumers to help ease the financial burden associated with such events. The Ohio DOI brings much value, and it's important to ensure you are educated on their responsibilities.

Auto Insurance Rates

Auto insurance rates in Ohio aren't falling like North Carolina rates are, but Ohio auto insurance rates are still pretty darn affordable.

A pricing report from insurance.com shows annual auto insurance premiums nationwide have declined 1 percent on average since 2006. Rates decreased in 41 of the 48 surveyed states.

The average national premium in 2007 is $1,896, down from $1,916 in 2006.

Ohio's average premium again ranked as the second-lowest in the nation at $1,342 a year, down 1 percent from $1,358. The only state with lower rates is Wisconsin, whose premiums dropped 1 percent to $1,335.

The states with the highest car insurance premiums are: Louisiana, $2,740; New York, $2,601; and New Jersey, $2,568.

While the decrease in average Ohio premiums is in line with the nationwide trend, North Carolina saw a 16 percent drop from 2006. Rates there are at $1,945, down from $2,261.

The Insurance.com report drew data from the lowest average car insurance rates in the first half of 2007 from about a dozen leading carriers. About 700,000 car insurance consumers participated in the survey.