FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA (November 3, 2016) – MHG Insurance Brokers announced today that Michelle Rollins has joined the Business Insurance Division to provide administrative and customer service support for the company’s property and casualty clients in addition to quoting workers’ comp, errors & omissions, and general liability business.

Rollins has spent over 10 years in the business insurance market in South Florida working in various positions. Prior to joining MHG, Rollins worked at a brokerage as an Account Representative where she provided sales and customer service, policy renewals, late pays and rewrites for over 4,500 clients in addition to training new employees.

“Customer service is key at MHG and is what ultimately differentiates us from other insurance brokers.” said Sandra Heminger, Business Insurance Broker. “Michelle’s experience will allow us to process quotes, certificates, policies and renewal details faster than we have before which will be an advantage for clients.”

The Business Insurance Division specializes in hard to place insurance coverage for businesses with unusual or difficult risks, high losses, lapses in coverage or dangerous exposures. Most recently, the Insurance Specialists at MHG identified a potential liability risk for cruise line operators and designed a new liability plan to fill the gap in coverage.

ABOUT MHG INSURANCE

Established in 1991 in Miami, Florida, MHG Insurance is an independent, global, full service insurance brokerage and consultative facility. Through its extensive relationships with international underwriting markets, MHG develops and provides a full range of employee benefits, risk mitigation programs, business insurance and financial services all supported by comprehensive attention to service support for all of our clients. In the marine community, MHG is well known for its expertise in the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) and developing MLC-aligned crew insurance solutions. In the U.S., MHG provides group and individual employee benefits along with advice on federal regulations regarding Health Care Reform and the Affordable Care Act. For more information about MHG Insurance Brokers and the services we provide, please visit www.mhginsurance.com.

In case you haven’t heard, MHG is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year! Can you remember when you turned 25? You probably felt like time had flown by, and yet you were still ready to take on the world, which is exactly how we feel! A lot goes into a business achieving and maintaining success, so this year we are toasting to 25 years of excellence. Reaching this milestone is no small feat, so join us for a stroll down memory lane as we remember how MHG first began, where we are today, and the next 25 years. After all, you can’t know where you are going until you recall where you have been.

Company History

MHG was launched in 1991 in Miami, Florida when founders Andrew Dudzinski and John Haagensen saw that due to industry growth and ensuing competitive pressures, cruise lines needed new ways to attract and retain their officers and crew. Andrew, with particular expertise in expatriate insurance programs and John, a former seafarer and practicing insurance agent, saw the solution in creating and providing customized marine employee benefit plans. Andrew and John combined their extensive experience and contacts to convince the industry that marine crew are better motivated, remain more loyal, and work more safely when a benefit plan is provided as part of an employment package. While hesitant at first, the cruise lines listened and soon benefit plans were implemented by many lines and in due course by other marine industry sectors, such as luxury yachts and commercial shipping. As a result, a growing number of marine crew and their families are now able to enjoy the benefits of health, disability and life insurance plans and at the same time, marine industry employers have gained new and valuable attraction and retention incentives.

MHG Insurance Brokers is now recognized in the marine industry as a unique resource for developing innovative crew insurance programs for the world’s leading cruise lines, prestigious luxury yachts and other shipping and marine businesses around the globe. Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, MHG has offices and representation in the Isle of Man, London, Hamburg, Monaco and Houston to better serve clients and support the continued development, acquisition and servicing of marine clients on both sides of the Atlantic.

Throughout the years, MHG has seen fit to expand its portfolio of products outside the marine industry but has always remained focused on its core business in providing crew insurance advice and solutions for vessel owners, operators, management companies, captains and crew worldwide. Today, MHG counts as its clients a total of 18 cruise lines, representing some 40% of the most prominent lines and more than 450 luxury yachts, including 20% of the world’s 200 largest yachts.

The Next 25 Years

While MHG has successfully introduced and encouraged the industry to adopt customized benefits for people working at sea, our work is not done. MHG will continue to be at the forefront of developing and implementing a full range of innovative benefit and welfare incentives and risk management solutions, all designed specifically for the marine industry and making the industry a better place to work and live.

Let’s raise a glass to the next 25!

Here at MHG Insurance Brokers, we offer a variety of different insurance solutions for many areas of business. From yacht crew insurance, to general liability and marine general liability coverage, individual and group health insurance, even life insurance, we offer a number of products to cover you, your family, or business. To see some advice directly from our team of insurance professionals, read our previous blog, “ If You Could Give One Piece of Advice to Your Clients, What Would It Be? ” If you are interested in purchasing marine crew insurance , contact us at mhginsurance.com or call us at +1 954 828 1819 or +44 (0) 1624 678668. Our insurance specialists have the knowledge and experience to guide you to the best coverage for your budget, and can also assist you with any insurance questions you may have.

DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN (September 15, 2016) – MHG Insurance announced today that Emma Bell has joined the company’s European office as Underwriting and Claims Assistant, reducing response times for new proposals and claims enquiries.

Bell joins MHG with an extensive background in the insurance and financial industries, having worked for various insurance companies in a number of different positions. Most recently, Bell worked as an Underwriting Support Technician where she performed risk management assignments, maintained records, and supported upper level management with allocation of tasks.

“We are lucky to have someone of Emma’s experience and skillset to join our team.” said Cathy Lane, Director of European Operations for MHG’s Isle of Man office. “Emma’s career in the insurance industry is what we need in order to expand our business and offer more support for our clients. We are eager for her to hit the ground running, and we are certain that she will be a perfect fit for the company.”

MHG’s Isle of Man office opened in 2009 with a remit to capitalise on opportunities from within the yacht sector as well as increasing the licensing reach of MHG globally. To date, the Isle of Man office is responsible for obtaining and administering over 35% of all business for the company’s Yacht Division.

About MHG Insurance

Established in 1991 in Miami, Florida, MHG Insurance is an independent, global, full service insurance brokerage and consultative facility. Through its extensive relationships with international underwriting markets, MHG develops and provides a full range of employee benefits, risk mitigation programs, business insurance and financial services all supported by comprehensive attention to service support for all of our clients. In the marine community, MHG is well known for its expertise in the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) and developing MLC-aligned crew insurance solutions. In the U.S., MHG provides group and individual employee benefits along with advice on federal regulations regarding the Affordable Care Act. For more information about MHG Insurance and the services we provide, please visit mhginsurance.com

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA (September 8, 2016) – MHG Insurance announced today that Sherry Wertz has joined the company’s Cruise Division as Administration Manager. Wertz will provide administrative and customer service support to cruise clients while working closely with the Division Manager and Claims Specialist, further developing business relations.

Wertz joins MHG with a tremendous amount of cruise industry experience having worked in various positions both ashore and on board. Most recently, Wertz worked as Senior HR Manager for a staffing company handling crew appointments for some of the world’s leading cruise lines.

“We have been looking for someone of Sherry’s caliber for quite some time to fill this newly created position.” said Edward “Mole” Telfer, MHG’s Cruise Division Director. “Sherry’s career in the cruise industry combined with her management background are exactly what we need to further the capabilities of the cruise division. I’m very happy to welcome her to the team.”

As MHG celebrates its 25th anniversary, the company continues to be at the forefront of developing insurance solutions and products to meet the changing needs of the cruise industry, businesses, and individuals around the world. Most recently, the Insurance Specialists at MHG identified a potential liability risk for cruise line operators and designed a liability plan to fill the gap in coverage.

About MHG Insurance

Established in 1991 in Miami, Florida, MHG Insurance is an independent, global, full service insurance brokerage and consultative facility. Through its extensive relationships with international underwriting markets, MHG develops and provides a full range of employee benefits, risk mitigation programs, business insurance and financial services all supported by comprehensive attention to service support for all of our clients. In the marine community, MHG is well known for its expertise in the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) and developing MLC-aligned crew insurance solutions. In the U.S., MHG provides group and individual employee benefits along with advice on federal regulations regarding the Affordable Care Act. For more information about MHG Insurance and the services we provide, please visit mhginsurance.com

Hurricane season is here! Even though the past few hurricane seasons have been quiet, all it takes is one serious storm to cause enough damage to shut your business down. Now is the perfect time for you to begin preparing your business for a natural disaster. Don’t be one of those who are scrambling to get ready at the last minute. While preparing your family and your house for a hurricane may be something you can do in the days leading up to a storm, preparing your business should be met with a bit more urgency. After all, chances are you, along with your employees, rely on the business in order to support your lives. Start preparing your business now by following these 5 steps.

1. Take Before Pictures

Prior to the start of hurricane season we suggest taking pictures of your property and building. In the event your business sustains damage and you need to make a claim, it may make the process easier. Pictures help keep our memory fresh, and offer proof of damage that may have occurred during the storm.

2. Have Enough Money Stashed Away for Payroll 

Hurricanes can easily shut down business for a couple of weeks, with loss of electricity, road closures, and flooding. Your employees may not be able to come to work for weeks. Even worse, your entire business may be shut down until repairs are done and everyday life gets back to normal. If your company is unable to make money for a period of time, does it have enough money in the reserves to continue paying employees? It’s a good idea to have the ability to pay your employees without 2 weeks’ worth of revenue.

3. Paperless Record Keeping

Many times hurricanes bring record breaking winds, and sometimes over a foot of rainfall. Both of which can easily ruin any paperwork you might have stashed around your office, warehouse, building, etc. To cover yourself, keep a digital copy of all important documents.

4. Keep Valuable Information at an Off-site Location

After making digital copies of all important records and documents, make more copies to store at an accessible, off site location. Store your licenses, contracts, operational records, proof of ownership, and of course any insurance paperwork. Also, try to keep them stored somewhere that is not in the path of the storm.

5. Make Sure You Have Proper Insurance Coverage

It is very important for business owners to understand their insurance policies, before a storm shows up on the radar. We recommend that you review your policy annually, and make sure that your policy still fits your needs. For example, your company could have grown over the last year, and now you may need coverage for areas that you didn’t need coverage for last year, such as new equipment or updated property. Also, if you have property that is covered, you can purchase “Business Interruption” which can cover the loss of income you may experience while your business is shut down.

Be prepared this hurricane season by performing all of these tasks before a hurricane is heading your way. Hopefully this will be a light season, but better to be safe than sorry.  If you own a business, and are looking for protection and would like more information on what you do to prepare your business for a hurricane, MHG Insurance Brokers would be happy to assist you. Also, if you are looking to purchase business insurance such as General Liability or Professional Liability, our insurance specialists have the experience to assist your business and offer advice in finding the perfect plan to fit all of your needs. Contact MHG Insurance Brokers today at +1 954-828-1819 or visit us online at mhginsurance.com.

In many cases, business owners and decision makers see insurance as something they need only because a law makes it mandatory for them to remain in business. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Insurance is here to protect your business, it’s employees, the equipment, etc. We have also found that some aren’t aware what insurance is protecting them from, and don’t know what their exposures are. While recognizing certain buzzwords such as general liability, and workers’ compensation is great, we want people to understand why they have to have these insurance policies. After all, accidents happen, but there is no need for an accident to ruin your business.

Workers’ Compensation

A workers’ compensation insurance policy provides wages, medical treatment, disability, and if necessary a death benefit to employees who are injured on the job. While workers’ comp makes up a large portion of many businesses expenses, it is necessary because without it, businesses would liable for any injuries an employee experiences while working. It also protects the business from any lawsuits that could be filed by the injured employee.

General Liability

Commercial general liability policies protect businesses in a lot of ways. Typically, it provides coverage for bodily injury, property damage, and personal and advertising injury which protects the insured from slander and false advertising. General liability may also cover fire damage that is caused by the negligence of the insured.

Marine General Liability

Marine general liability policies are similar to general liability policies except they are designed specifically for those who work at sea, as general liability insurance will not cover those who work near or on the water. These policies include coverage for marine contractors and others who work on or near water.

Professional Liability (PLI or E&O)

Professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions (E&O), will cover your business if you provide advice, or provide a service. It will protect you against negligent claims and damages that are awarded from a lawsuit.

Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI)

Employment practices liability insurance protects your business against claims made by your employees. It can protect you from claims alleging discrimination based on sex, race, age, or disability. It can also protect you from claims alleging wrongful termination, harassment, and many other employment-related issues.

United States Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (US L&H)

Thanks to the United States Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA also known as USL&H), those who work in the maritime industry and fall into certain categories, will have coverage backed by the federal government, not just the state. The law ensures that workers’ comp benefits are provided to those who work in the maritime industry, which will protect your business from any lawsuits associated with a workplace injury.

Maritime Employers Liability (MEL)

This policy generally covers employees who are working onboard a vessel, whether owned by the company they work for or as a contractor. Think of workers’ compensation insurance for those who work at sea.

Having the necessary insurance policies isn’t all you should be doing to protect yourself. Practicing good risk management also includes taking precautions around your workplace to make it as safe as possible. Read our previous blog, “10 Tips on Creating a Safe Work Environment”, for help in deciding what steps you should take in order to further protect you and your employees. If you have any questions, or are interested in purchasing workers’ compensation insurance, USL&H or other types of business insurance, or group health insurance for your employees, please contact us at954-828-1819 or visit us online at mhginsurance.com. Our insurance specialists have the knowledge and experience to cover your company’s risks appropriately.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA (May 3, 2016) - MHG Insurance, a full-service insurance brokerage serving the marine industry, businesses, and groups and individuals around the world, has been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in South Florida by the South Florida Business Journal, a program that celebrates excellence and employee satisfaction in the workplace.

Results were based on a survey evaluating ten areas of engagement, including employee benefits and recognition, leadership, turnover, employee and leadership management and more. Results of the survey were submitted to Quantum Workplace for analysis. Employees were encouraged to answer freely as all answers remain anonymous.

“What an honor to be recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in South Florida!” said Andrew Dudzinski, Chairman and CEO of MHG Insurance. “John (Haagensen, President of MHG) and I have made the working culture of MHG a priority for a long time, so it’s very flattering to be recognized by such a prestigious publication with other top companies in our community.”

Many of the companies in attendance had similar benefits or characteristics that made them worthy of the honor of being a Best Places to Work in South Florida. Some characteristics that made MHG stand out are its family atmosphere, excellent benefits that are 100% funded by the company, flexibility, and MHG’s entrepreneurial spirit which encourages employees to present new opportunities and initiatives for the company.

About MHG Insurance

Since 1991, MHG Insurance has been committed to providing expert insurance advice and innovative solutions for the marine, aviation, energy and related industries. Today, with over two decades of experience and relationships with some of the world’s top insurance markets, MHG has established an enviable reputation for providing quality advice, products and service for groups, businesses and individuals around the world. Based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida MHG has insurance specialists worldwide, with offices in Houston, Isle of Man, the Cote d’Azur and Hamburg. For more information, please visit mhginsurance.com MHG Ocean Benefits Limited, trading as MHG Ocean Benefits, MHG Insurance and MHG Underwriting Services, is registered with the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority as an insurance intermediary in respect of General Business. Registered in the Isle of Man, company number: 120885C.

It’s that time of the year! That time where everyone looks back on the past year and makes changes for the upcoming one. Whether it is taxes, budgets, even weight loss, the motto is “out with the old, in with the new!” However, you may have not originally thought to review your life insurance policy. It’s always a good idea to review any insurance policy periodically, but the end of the year brings a perfect time to look at your current policy, and see if it still offers the coverage you need.

 Do You Have New Dependents or Family Members?

A lot can change over the course of a year, especially when it comes to relationships and families. Did you get married? Did you have children? Do you have new dependents in your life that may need to be made a beneficiary of your life insurance policy? These are all questions you should ask yourself when reviewing your policy. Also, maybe you need to increase the overall value of the policy to account for new dependents.

Did You Have Any New Major Purchases or New Debts?

Many times, people decide on the value of their life insurance policy based on their outstanding debt. For example, if you have a mortgage of $200,000, it would be smart to include $200,000 in your calculation for your life insurance to cover the cost of the house if something were to happen to you. Purchases such as buying a house, buying a car, starting a business are all ways to increase your debt, and should be taken into consideration when deciding the value of your policy.

Did Something Change at Your Job?

There are scenarios of changes at the workplace that should give you a reason to review your life insurance policy. One is if you were to start a new job. There is a chance that your job offers employee sponsored life insurance based on your salary. This is a great benefit to have, so take the amount of coverage provided into consideration if you are purchasing a policy.

If you didn't start a new job, there are still changes that may have occurred over the past year that warrant a policy review. Getting a raise may give you more expendable income to increase your policy value. Also, if you received a promotion, there may be changes to the benefits provided to you such as the value of your life insurance policy.

Did You Move?

Moving always seems to bring more changes to someone's life than they originally expected. If you moved to a foreign country, there is a strong possibility that your life insurance coverage didn't follow you to your new home. Many life insurance policies are only covered in the country of purchase. However, it should be noted that there are several options for international life insurance coverage. If you would like more information on international life insurance, read our previous blog " Your Life Insurance May Not Have International Coverage ".

Our wellness and security is important to us. For other things to consider with the New Year right around the corner, read our previous blog, “ Learn Why the Start of a New Year is Important to Your Insurance Benefits ”. Whether you are purchasing  life insurance  for the first time, looking for better coverage or are interested in learning more about other types of insurance available to you, we can help! Visit our website at  mhginsurance.com  or speak with an Insurance Specialist at 954 828 1819. Don’t forget the deadline to enroll in a full-time health insurance plan is January 31st, 2016!

Many people consider the "Holiday Season" their favorite time of the year. With so much going on from decorating the house, to baking treats, and getting all of your holiday shopping done in time, this time of the year can also bring some stress. Especially if you have a trip scheduled!

Packing for a trip can be difficult, no matter how many times you double check to make sure you have everything, it can feel like you are still forgetting something. Going on a trip this time of year also leaves you less time to complete all of your other holiday tasks. Don’t become overwhelmed and not properly prepare for your trip, follow these tips to help get you ready to go.

1. Do Your Research

No matter where you are going for your holiday trip, it is important to do your research. Even if you have been there multiple times, it's important to see what the weather forecast and temperatures are expected to be. This will let you pack the proper clothing needed to stay warm, or cool.

Also, it's a good idea to make a list of all the items that you need to pack. Cross off each item as you put it into the bag in order to keep track of everything and minimize your chances of forgetting something.

2. Bring Cash

I'm sure you have heard this saying time and time again, "Cash is king!" Carrying large amounts of cash may not always be the best idea, but going a trip is an exception. If your credit card happens to get compromised while you are away, it will be shut down leaving you with no other way to pay for things. Also, there is a chance that some places you are going don't accept credit cards. Don't take a chance and find yourself stranded in a foreign place.

3. Carry-On Luggage

If traveling on an airplane, there are certain items that should be put in your carry-on bag. Any breakables you are taking should be kept with you at all times. Also, your toiletries should be put in your carry-on luggage in case you need to freshen up at the airport. Most importantly, any prescriptions you have or medications you are taking should be kept in your carry-on. In the event that your luggage is lost, you will still have the medicine you need.

4. Save Space

Whenever you are packing for a trip, saving space is a must. There are several different tips to help you get the most out of your luggage. Try rolling your t-shirts instead of folding them. Also, you can stick rolled up clothing inside your shoes. If you have any large jackets, it may be a good idea to wear them or carry them so they don't take up space in your suitcase.

5. Gifts and Souvenirs

If you are going on a holiday trip to see family or friends, there is a good chance that you will be traveling with gifts. Depending on the gift, it may be better to ship the gift to your destination separately. Or you can plan ahead by only getting small presents that you know will be able to fit in your luggage. Be sure to leave space in your bag for any souvenirs that you may buy, or gifts that you may receive.

Before setting off on your next adventure, call MHG Insurance Brokers at +1 954-828-1819 or +44 (0) 1624 678668 or visit us online at  mhginsurance.com  to obtain  trip cancellation and travel insurance , along with other insurance plans that will make your trip an exciting, hassle-free experience! MHG Insurance Brokers hopes that you arrive and return safe and sound. For more holiday travel tips, read our previous blog, " Save Time and Money with These Holiday Travel Tips ". Happy Holidays!

Fort Lauderdale (December 10, 2015) – MHG Insurance Brokers announced today that Kelly Morris has joined the company as Claims Specialist. Morris will be part of the claims team, based in the US, extending MHG’s claims support capabilities across 3 time zones. Her primary focus will be on claims support for international health policies.

Morris joins MHG Insurance Brokers with over 12 years of international insurance experience. Throughout her insurance career at International Medical Group (IMG) she has had several responsibilities from sorting mail in the missionary claims department in her early days to becoming the primary sales service contact for mission, marine and Bahamian brokers, who represented over $25 million in annual premiums.