Newsroom | American Family Insurance

Life insurance facts every family should know

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 09:23:44 -0500

September often brings a return to routine, renewed goals and a closer look at household finances. American Family Insurance encourages consumers who use this time to review budgets, savings plans and other financial priorities, to also take another look at an important part of their family financial plan: life insurance.

While many people insure their car, home and health against unforeseen events, they may not have considered the role life insurance can play in a family's financial future. Although it is not always an easy topic to discuss, life insurance can help financially protect loved ones in the event of a death.

Common life insurance myths
Life insurance is often misunderstood. Many consumers have questions about affordability, coverage needs and when to purchase a policy. Understanding the facts allows consumers to make informed decisions and helps ensure their coverage meets their needs to protect those who matter most.

Myth: Life insurance is too expensive

Fact: Life insurance may be more affordable than many people think.

Many consumers overestimate the cost of life insurance and may be surprised to learn that coverage options are available to fit a variety of budgets. The cost of coverage can vary based on factors like age, health, coverage amount and the type of insurance selected. When viewed as a way to help financially protect those who matter most, life insurance can be an important part of a family's financial plan. For those with dependents, life insurance may help provide financial support for expenses such as funeral costs, mortgage payments and outstanding debts.

Myth: I don't need life insurance because I'm young

Fact: Getting life insurance earlier in life can help provide protection before major life milestones occur.

Some young adults assume life insurance isn't necessary because they don't yet have children or significant assets. However, obtaining coverage while younger and healthier may provide access to more affordable premium rates than waiting until later in life. Life insurance can also help address debts, final expenses and future financial responsibilities, even before major life milestones occur.

Myth: Life insurance through work is enough

Fact: Employer-provided life insurance may not provide all the coverage your family needs.

Workplace life insurance can be a valuable employee benefit, but it may not fully address a family's long-term life insurance needs. Employer-sponsored coverage often doesn’t follow you if you change jobs. A personal life insurance policy can help provide protection that remains with you regardless of your employment situation.

Myth: I don't need life insurance anymore because my children are grown

Fact: Life insurance can continue to provide value during every stage of life.

Even if your children are financially independent, you may still have final expenses, outstanding debts or legacy planning goals to consider.

Myth: Life insurance is too overwhelming and there are too many options

Fact: Choosing life insurance can be simpler when you have the right guidance and resources.

Life insurance doesn't have to be complicated. Speaking with an American Family Insurance agency owner can help consumers understand their options and make informed decisions.

When should you review your coverage?
Life insurance is not necessarily a one-time decision. As life changes, your coverage needs may also change. Major life events can be a good reason to review your coverage and determine whether it still reflects your current needs. September is a good month to review your family’s specific needs and coverages.

Consider reviewing your life insurance coverage if you have recently:

Married
Welcomed a child
Purchased a home
Changed jobs or experienced a significant change in income
Taken on additional financial responsibilities
Begun caring for a loved one

If your circumstances have changed since you last purchased or reviewed your policy, it may be worth discussing your coverage needs.

Understanding your life insurance options
Once you understand the facts, the next step is finding coverage that fits your needs and goals.

Term life insurance offers level premiums for a specific period, such as 10, 20, or 30 years, helping families replace lost income and maintain financial stability, including keeping up with mortgage payments and other ongoing expenses.
Whole life insurance provides lifelong coverage with premiums that remain the same and builds cash value over time.
Flexible life insurance allows policyowners to modify payments and coverage, subject to policy terms and conditions, offering greater flexibility to help meet changing financial needs throughout different stages of life.

Choosing the right life insurance policy is a personal decision that depends on your loved ones' needs, and your financial responsibilities and long-term goals.

Taking the next step
Consumers who are unsure how much coverage they need or which policy may be right for them can contact an American Family Insurance agency owner to discuss their options, estimate coverage needs and identify a policy that fits their circumstances. American Family also offers online resources and a life insurance calculator to help consumers evaluate their needs and explore some available coverage options.

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About American Family Insurance
American Family Insurance, based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance company, ranking No. 226 on the Fortune 500 list. American Family has a current ‘a+’ credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for at least 75 years. The company offers American Family-brand products through a network of exclusive agency owners as well as nationwide through key strategic partnerships. American Family Insurance also includes Homesite and Main Street America. The company has approximately 10,500 employees nationwide.

Life insurance underwritten by American Family Life Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783. American Family Life Insurance Company has an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ (Excellent), the third highest of their 13 ratings; and an ‘a+’ (Excellent) long-term issuer credit rating, the fifth highest of their 21 ratings.

Back-to-school season: Five insurance questions for families

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0500

As families prepare for a new school year, many are focused on back-to-school shopping lists, tuition payments and extracurricular expenses. But amid the seasonal spending, it's also a good time to review insurance coverage and make sure students are protected from unexpected setbacks.

Students often head back to school with valuable belongings, whether they’re moving into a residence hall, living off campus or commuting from home. American Family Insurance encourages families to ask a few questions to help protect what matters most and identify potential opportunities to save.

As students head back to the classroom, here are a few insurance questions families should ask before the school year begins:

Will your homeowners insurance cover your child at college?
In many cases, your homeowners insurance may extend to your college student, especially if they live in university housing.

Moving into a residence hall or off-campus apartment often means bringing thousands of dollars’ worth of belongings, including laptops, tablets, gaming systems and other electronics. For students living off campus or those not considered insured under a homeowners policy, renters insurance may be a smart choice, providing affordable protection for personal belongings and liability exposure.

Taking time to review coverage before the semester begins can help avoid surprises later.

Are your student’s electronics protected at school?
Your student’s electronics may be protected by renters insurance, which can help cover possessions such as computers and other electronics.

From studying and streaming to staying connected with friends and family, technology plays a major role in student life. Students often bring valuable electronics to campus they rely on both in and out of the classroom. Before heading to school, families should review the electronics their student is bringing and understand their coverage options. Understanding what’s covered can help avoid unexpected expenses throughout the school year.

Reviewing coverage before the school year begins can help families better protect the devices students depend on and avoid costly replacement expenses if the unexpected happens.

Does your student’s auto insurance need to change for the school year?
A new school year often brings changes in how, when and where students drive, making it a good time to review auto insurance coverage.

Whether your student is driving to class, commuting from home or heading away to college, it’s a good time to review your coverage and available discounts.

Students under age 25 who attend school 100 miles or more from home and leave their vehicle behind may qualify for an away-at-school discount. Families should also review their policy when driving habits change to help ensure they have the auto protection they need throughout the school year.

Another option is DriveMyWay. At American Family, we’re all about protecting you and your loved ones. That includes helping reduce crash risk on the road, and DriveMyWay helps accomplish that. The DriveMyWay program allows you or your children to demonstrate safe driving habits and potentially be rewarded with lower rates.

Can good grades help lower your insurance costs?
Yes. Good grades may help eligible students qualify for insurance discounts and save on premiums.

American Family offers a Good Student Discount for qualifying high school, college and homeschooled students. Families may also be eligible for additional savings opportunities, including Away at School, Young Volunteer and Generational discounts.

A quick policy review can help ensure you’re taking advantage of available savings opportunities.

Should families consider life insurance for students and young adults?
Yes. Life insurance is often more affordable when purchased at a younger age and can help families plan for the future.

Back-to-school season often marks important life milestones and new levels of independence for students. Now is a great time to help protect your student’s future.

American Family Life Insurance Company offers options like whole life, term life and more, so you can choose what fits your family best. Because age and health can impact life insurance rates, getting coverage now can mean lower costs and more peace of mind.

Contact your American Family Insurance agency owner today
As students head back to the classroom, a simple insurance review can help families protect their budgets, safeguard valuable belongings and feel confident they've prepared for the school year ahead.

Find an American Family Insurance agency owner near you for a personalized coverage review. Learn how you can help protect what matters most while making the most of available savings opportunities.

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Homeowners insurance and swimming pools: Tips and reminders

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 11:19:24 -0500

Backyard pools are a summertime staple and a selling point for many homebuyers. They also come with added safety responsibilities and potential financial risk. When it comes to insurance, a pool can increase both property risk and liability exposure, so homeowners should take practical steps to help protect family, guests and their finances.

Why pools can raise liability concerns
As the property owner, you may be held liable if someone is injured in or around your pool and you were negligent in maintaining safety. When liability is evaluated, it’s important the homeowner took reasonable, common-sense precautions such as fencing, locked gates and appropriate supervision.

It’s important for pool owners to take extra steps to prevent unsupervised access, especially when children are involved. Pools are considered an “attractive nuisance,” meaning a homeowner may be responsible for injuries even if a child trespasses onto the property to access the pool.

A summer pool safety checklist
To reduce risk, start with the basics: barriers and access control, regular maintenance, water quality and consistent supervision. AAA recommends the following pool safety steps:

Barriers and access: Make sure your pool fence fully encloses the pool and meets local code requirements. Consider gates that self-close and self-latch, with latches placed out of children’s reach. For above-ground pools, remove or lock the ladder and secure the steps when the pool is not in use.
Doors and alarms: Consider alarms on doors and windows that open to the pool area. Pool surface alarms and underwater motion alarms can also provide an added layer of protection.
Structure and equipment: Inspect pool walls, decking, railings and ladders for cracks, loose areas or corrosion. Check drain covers and filters to confirm they are intact and securely attached.
Water quality: Clear water is safe water. You should be able to see the bottom of the pool at its deepest point. Keep your filtration system and pump running as recommended so you can maintain proper pH and disinfection levels.
Safety equipment and supervision: Keep a reach pole, an approved flotation device and a first-aid kit near the pool. When people of any age are swimming, consider assigning an adult as a dedicated water watcher whose only job is supervision.
Kids and weaker swimmers: Approved life jackets can help for non-swimmers. When children are in the water, an adult staying within arm’s reach is recommended. Remove toys and floats from the pool area when they are not in use to reduce the chance children are drawn toward the water unsupervised.

How a pool can affect your homeowners insurance
Owning a pool can change your homeowners insurance needs. Even if your policy already provides baseline coverage, it’s important to review your specific limits, exclusions and options with your insurance agency owner, particularly if you are installing a pool or buying a home that has one.

Pool ownership often increases the need for additional liability protection. Depending on your situation, you may want to increase liability limits or consider an umbrella policy that can help provide protection over and above what you already have on your home.

Two key areas to review:

Property coverage: In-ground pools and permanently installed above-ground pools are often covered as other structures. Smaller, movable above-ground pools may fall under personal property coverage instead. Coverage may exclude certain types of damage, such as wear and tear or lack of maintenance, so ask your agency owner to walk through your policy details and any exclusions that apply.
Liability coverage: Consider whether your liability limits are high enough for the increased risk that comes with pool ownership. Liability coverage can help pay legal expenses and medical bills up to your policy limits, if a non-household member is injured in or around your pool and you are found responsible.

You should also think about replacement cost. If a pool is destroyed by a storm or other covered event, make sure you have enough insurance protection to rebuild or replace it, including pool-related items such as deck furniture.

Steps to take before swim season begins
Before pool season starts, set expectations and confirm your safety plan.

Set clear pool rules: Post a short list of rules and enforce them consistently. Consider safety basics such as no running on the deck, no diving in shallow areas, no glass containers, and no swimming alone.
Document your safety measures: Take photos of fencing, locked gates, signage and safety equipment. Documenting can be helpful if a claim occurs and you need to show the precautions you had in place.
Refresh emergency skills: Consider CPR and first-aid training for adults who regularly supervise the pool. Swimming lessons for children can also help build skills and confidence.
Review your current coverage: Review your homeowners policy and contact your agency owner to see whether you should update your coverage, adjust your liability limits or consider umbrella coverage.

Taking time to optimize your pool area, review your coverage and set ground rules helps you protect what matters most and enjoy your home with absolute confidence. Find an American Family Insurance agency owner near you to explain your options and review your coverage.

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Before you launch: Insurance reminders for boat and personal watercraft owners

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 11:45:17 -0500

As summer boating season ramps up, many families are focused on the fun: choosing the right watercraft, stocking safety gear, and mapping out weekends on the water. But insurance is often an afterthought, and that can lead to expensive surprises when something goes wrong.

To help boaters and personal watercraft users avoid common coverage gaps, American Family Insurance encourages customers to review their policies so coverage keeps pace with their plans.

A quick review now can help you avoid surprises later and provide peace of mind.

Understanding your coverage options
Just as no two boaters are alike, neither are the risks that come with different watercraft and how you use them. Whether you’re heading out for a quiet fishing trip, cruising on a pontoon with family and friends, or spending the day on a personal watercraft, your time on the water should be defined by the experience, not the what ifs.

That’s why boat and personal watercraft insurance deserve a closer look. If you own a boat, a personal watercraft (such as a Jet Ski, Sea-Doo or WaveRunner), or both, it’s worth taking a moment to confirm each one is insured appropriately for how you use it.

One thing to keep in mind is that homeowners insurance alone may leave boaters and riders without the liability protection or physical damage coverage they expect. A home policy typically provides limited liability coverage for some boats but excludes certain boats and personal watercrafts.

Summer coverage checklist for boaters and riders
Before heading out on the water, American Family Insurance recommends reviewing these basics:

Make sure every watercraft is insured: Confirm that each boat and personal watercraft you own is listed correctly on your policy, especially if you recently purchased a new watercraft or changed where it’s stored or transported.
Review liability coverage: Liability coverage can help when you are legally responsible for injuries or property damage resulting from an accident. If you frequently have passengers onboard, this is an especially important conversation.
Understand physical damage coverage: Physical damage coverage may help protect your boat or personal watercraft against many types of accidental damage or loss while it’s in the water, in transit or in storage. Ask what situations are typically covered and what exclusions or limits apply.
Check medical expense coverage: Medical expense coverage may help cover medical services, within policy limits, for you and your passengers regardless of fault. This can be an important consideration for families who often bring guests.
Ask about towing and on-water assistance: Depending on the policy, emergency roadside and on-water service coverage may help with on-water towing, mechanical labor at the breakdown site or fuel delivery. Confirm what is available and what the limits are.
Account for upgrades and gear: If you have upgraded equipment, added accessories or regularly transport fishing or watersports gear, confirm whether that property is covered, how it is covered and whether higher limits make sense.
Confirm where and when you are covered: Coverage can vary based on where the boat or personal watercraft is used and how it is transported or stored. If your summer plans include multiple waterways or travel across state lines, ask what that means for your policy.

What boat insurance may cover
Coverage details vary by policy, but boat insurance may help cover situations such as:

Collision with another boat or object
Fire or explosion
Theft or vandalism
Capsizing or sinking
Liability costs if you’re responsible for injuries to others or damage to their property
Fuel or oil spill cleanup (where included)

Common limits and exclusions to ask about
Depending on the policy, exclusions or limits may apply, including for:

Damage caused by an uninsured or underinsured boater
Damage to your property
Loss of personal effects and fishing equipment

For boaters and personal watercraft users, a quick review now can help avoid surprises later and keep the focus where it belongs: enjoying time on the water.

Talk with an agency owner before you head out
When it comes to boat and personal watercraft insurance, there are many options and add-ons available. Contact your local American Family Insurance agency owner to review your policy and discuss coverage options that fit your needs. The right conversation now can help you feel confident later, so you can focus on protecting what matters most.

Coverage may vary by state and may be subject to change. Some products are not available in every state. Please read your policy and contact your agency owner for assistance.

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Protecting your home starts with understanding your policy

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 09:05:45 -0500

Owning a home is a major milestone, and it can be both exciting and intimidating. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or you’ve owned a home for years, protecting that investment is important. Understanding your insurance options can help you choose coverage that fits your needs and budget.

Knowing what your policy covers, and what it doesn’t, can help you avoid costly surprises. Standard home insurance policies include several coverages for common perils, each with limits you can typically adjust. You may also be able to add coverage for certain risks that may not be included in a standard policy, such as floods or earthquakes.

What does homeowners insurance cover?
Homeowners insurance typically provides a broad set of protections for your home, your belongings and your personal liability. Coverage and limits vary by policy, so it’s important to understand what you have and what you may need.

Most policies include:

Dwelling coverage to help protect your home’s structure, such as the roof, walls, floors, siding and windows.
Personal property coverage to help repair or replace belongings, from furniture and clothing to certain valuables such as watches and jewelry.
Other structures coverage to help protect structures on your property that are not attached to your home, such as detached garages, sheds, fences and pools.
Loss of use coverage to help pay for additional living expenses, such as food and temporary housing, if a covered event leaves your home uninhabitable.
Liability coverage to help protect you if someone is injured on your property.
Deductibles are the dollar amount or percentage you pay out of pocket before insurance pays its portion of a covered loss.

Your local American Family Insurance agency owner can help you compare options and help you choose what fits your budget.

What does homeowners insurance not cover?
It’s important to know that a standard home policy does not usually cover every type of loss.

While this list is not exhaustive, many policies do not typically cover:

Earthquakes
Equipment and home appliance breakdown
Floods
Hidden water damage
Service line breakdown
Sewer/septic backup and sump overflow damages

Some items listed above may be available as optional add-on coverage you can purchase and add to your policy. Talk to your agency owner to see what makes sense for you and your budget.

Talk with an agency owner
Your home is an investment. Understanding your coverage and making informed choices can help you avoid costly surprises when you need your policy most.

Keep in mind that as your home changes, your coverage should, too. Updates such as a new roof, a finished basement, an updated room or a new deck can change your coverage needs. Since most homeowners policies renew annually, renewal is a good time to check in with your agency owner to review your home's value, your deductible and what is and isn't covered.

Choosing the right homeowners policy for your needs and budget doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Find an American Family Insurance agency owner near you to explain your options and help protect what matters most, so you feel confident in your coverage and can keep pursuing your dreams.

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Hurricane season is here: Protect your home and review coverage

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 13:17:30 -0500

With the Atlantic hurricane season officially beginning June 1, homeowners can take steps now to prepare for the hazards that hurricanes can bring. Strengthening your home and reviewing your insurance coverage ahead of time can help you respond faster and recover more smoothly if a storm impacts your community.

This doesn’t just apply to those who live in coastal states. Hurricanes can travel hundreds of miles inland, bringing excessive rainfall, high winds, severe thunderstorms, possible tornadoes, and high risks of flooding.

Hurricanes can create multiple hazards:

Storm surge is water pushed onshore by a tropical system and causes the most damage of any of the hurricane hazards.
Extreme winds can top 200 mph in the strongest storms, causing massive damage to buildings in its path.
Inland flooding from heavy rainfall can damage homes and wash out roadways far from the shoreline.
Tornadoes are common as a hurricane moves ashore and even prior to landfall can cause significant damage.
Rip currents and rough seas are common before and after hurricanes, making swimming and surfing dangerous.

Steps to help strengthen your home
The National Weather Service recommends homeowners take the following steps to help prepare for severe weather:

Trim trees: Keep trees around your home trimmed well before a storm to reduce damage from broken branches.
Have materials ready: Gather supplies in advance such as Hurricane shutters or board up or protect windows from flying debris.
Secure outdoor items: Bring in loose items such as patio furniture and decor. High winds can turn them into projectiles and cause damage to homes.
Check the doors: Secure all doors on your property. The garage door is often one of the most vulnerable.
Protect vehicles: Move vehicles into a garage or another secure location when possible.

Insurance reminders for hurricane season
A hurricane is not the time to learn what your policy does and does not cover. Consider these steps before severe weather strikes:

Review your policies: Understand what is covered, what is excluded, and what is subject to deductibles.
Consider flood insurance: Flooding is a leading cause of hurricane-related damage, and flood coverage is not included in many standard homeowners policies. Talk to your agent. For more information about what is covered and to find a policy, visit floodsmart.gov.
Build a kit: Prepare a basic emergency supply kit, which could include water, food, medications, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, copies of your insurance policies, and other essential items in case you need to leave your home.
Keep documents accessible: Store your insurance documents and carrier contact information where you can grab them quickly if you need to evacuate.
Take photos before and after: Document your home and belongings now. If damage occurs, take detailed photos as soon as it is safe to do so. Before-and-after photos can help support a claim.
Save receipts: If you are ordered to evacuate, your policy may include additional living expense coverage for eligible costs such as hotel stays, meals and pet boarding. Keep all receipts for potential reimbursement.

Understand your coverage
In many states, wind-related hurricane damage is typically covered under a homeowners policy, subject to policy terms, conditions, deductibles and exclusions. Be sure to confirm your coverage reflects your home’s current reconstruction cost.

Contact an American Family Insurance agency owner to review your policy and discuss coverage options that fit your needs, providing you with confidence and helping you protect what matters most.

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About American Family Insurance
American Family Insurance, based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance company, ranking No. 202 on the Fortune 500 list. American Family has a current ‘a+’ credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for at least 75 years. The company offers American Family-brand products through a network of exclusive agency owners as well as nationwide through key strategic partnerships. American Family Insurance also includes Homesite and Main Street America. The company has approximately 10,500 employees nationwide.

Road trip ready: Summer travel car-prep and auto coverage reminders

Thu, 21 May 2026 08:45:26 -0500

Summer is peak vacation season, and a little planning can go a long way to help keep your trips on track.

For many, Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer. The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects 45 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home over Memorial Day weekend in 2026.

Before you hit the road, take time to prepare your vehicle and make sure you’re covered.

Road trip car checklist
A few quick checks can help you avoid breakdowns and unexpected delays:

Check your oil and fluids: Check engine oil before a long trip and top off as needed. Also check other key fluids, such as transmission fluid, and recheck during and after your trip.
Check your brakes: Inspect brake pads and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for replacement. When driving, pay attention to how far you need to press the brake pedal to slow down, and listen for unusual noises. If anything feels or sounds off, have your brakes inspected.
Test your tires: Check tire pressure and treads before you go. Inflate to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended PSI. Pay attention to dashboard tire pressure alerts. Keeping your tires at correct pressure can also improve fuel economy and handling.
Check your windshield: Replace worn wiper blades and top off washer fluid for clear visibility in rain, dust or road spray.
Review car seat installation: If you are traveling with young children, confirm car seats are installed correctly and secured tightly using the proper anchors and straps.
Keep an emergency kit: Consider jumper cables, reflectors, a basic tool kit, blankets, bottles of water and nonperishable snacks.
Bring a first aid kit: Stock supplies for minor cuts, headaches and other common travel issues.

Review your auto coverage
Before you leave, contact an American Family Insurance agency owner to discuss your travel plans and confirm your auto policy is up to date. Ask about optional coverages that may be helpful for road trips, such as emergency roadside assistance and travel insurance.

Consider Travel Peace of Mind car insurance
If your vehicle is disabled during a trip, getting back on the road can mean unexpected expenses. Travel Peace of Mind coverage can help pay for repairs, meals, lodging, and alternate transportation after an accident or breakdown, when you have covered comprehensive or collision and the incident happens 100 miles or more from home.

Get the MyAmFam app before you go
Emergency roadside assistance is available for policyholders in the MyAmFam app. You can also manage your account and track claim information.

Get a quote today
Save up to 40% when you bundle home and auto. Visit amfam.com or call 1-800-MYAMFAM.

To learn more, review your coverage options and confirm you have the right protection in place, contact an American Family Insurance agency owner. They can help you review your policy and choose options that fit your needs, so you can head out with confidence and protect what matters most.

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About American Family Insurance
American Family Insurance, based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance company, ranking No. 202 on the Fortune 500 list. American Family has a current ‘a+’ credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for at least 75 years. The company offers American Family-brand products through a network of exclusive agency owners as well as nationwide through key strategic partnerships. American Family Insurance also includes Homesite and Main Street America. The company has approximately 10,500 employees nationwide.

Storm season is here: How to prepare before severe weather hits

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 09:59:27 -0500

When Spring weather rolls in, it can bring severe storms, including thunderstorms, strong winds, damaging hail and tornadoes. Taking a few simple steps now can help protect your home and make recovery smoother if a storm hits.

Here are tips to help you get storm-ready:

Be weather aware
Stay informed with real-time severe weather forecasts in your area. Sign up for emergency alerts from the National Weather Service. Monitor local forecasts and warnings so you have time to prepare and move to safety. Consider purchasing a weather radio to stay up to date on alerts without needing Wi-Fi or a power outlet.

Storm safety plans
Review with your family what to do during a severe storm. Identify the safest place to shelter in your home for different storm scenarios. Make a communication plan for times when family members are apart. Check emergency supplies so you can shelter safely if needed.

Evaluate your home
Do a seasonal walk-around to spot vulnerabilities before a storm arrives.

Check for missing shingles and look for siding that is missing.
Trim tree branches that could fall during a storm.
Secure detached structures (sheds, gazebos) and bring in or secure patio furniture and other outdoor items.
Check gutters and downspouts, and clear gutters in spring and fall to help move runoff away from your home and spot issues.
Test your sump pump, clear debris and confirm any backup system is working.
If you’ve had leaks in the past, consider addressing them now before heavier spring rains cause additional damage.

Review your insurance policy coverages
Severe weather is unpredictable, and having the right insurance in place can help reduce stress before, during and after a storm. If it’s been a while since you reviewed your policy, contact your insurance agency owner to confirm your coverage and ask whether endorsements are available to strengthen protection.

Create a home inventory
A home inventory can help support an insurance claim if your home or belongings are damaged. List major items, especially valuables, with descriptions, photos and estimated values. The more detail, the better. To take things a step further, consider recording a video walk-through of your home.

Know how to file a claim
The aftermath of a severe storm can be stressful. Filing a claim quickly can help speed up the process. Contact your agency owner as soon as possible to get started. American Family customers can report a claim:

Through the MyAmFam app or via MyAccount at amfam.com.
By texting STORM to 26326 (AMFAM) to receive a link to file a claim from a smartphone (message and data rates may apply).
By calling 1-800-MYAMFAM (1-800-692-6326), where trained representatives are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

To learn more, review coverage options and confirm you have the right protection in place, contact an American Family Insurance agency owner in your area today. They can walk through your options, helping ensure your policy is built to protect what matters most.

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About American Family Insurance
American Family Insurance, based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance company, ranking No. 202 on the Fortune 500 list. American Family has a current ‘a+’ credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for at least 75 years. The company offers American Family-brand products through a network of exclusive agency owners as well as nationwide through key strategic partnerships. American Family Insurance also includes Homesite and Main Street America. The company has approximately 10,500 employees nationwide.