Frequently Asked Questions

We know insurance can be confusing. To help you make a clear decision when it comes to selecting the right coverage, our insurance experts provide answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

General information

For both personal insurance and business insurance, you can get a quote directly through us or by contacting a local independent insurance agent using our Find an Agent tool.


Our employee-focused corporate culture, outstanding facilities, and top-tier benefits have led to our continued recognition as a great workplace. Visit our careers page to learn more about life at Acuity and career opportunities.


We love our agents. Contact us at sales@acuity.com to get started!


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Need Help?

Please contact the Acuity Help Desk at 800.242.7666, extension 4357 (HELP).

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday - Friday: 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., CST



Business insurance

DIRECT BILL COMMERCIAL LINES

Automatic Payment Options (paid directly from your bank account)

Description Term Length Minimum Premium Required Down Payment % Required Future Payments
1-Pay 12 None 100%  
2-Pay 12 None 50% 1 installment due in 5 months
4-Pay 12 None 25% 3 equal installments at 90-day intervals
5-Pay 12 None 20% 4 equal installments at 30-day intervals
11-Pay*  12 None 9.1% 10 equal installments at 30-day intervals

*For Arizona only, the 12-Pay option is available with an 8.3% down payment and 11 equal installments at 30-day intervals. 11-Pay option is not available.

 

Direct Bill Payment Options (paid by check or money order)

Description Term Length Minimum Premium Required Down Payment % Required Future Payments
1-Pay 12 None 100%  
2-Pay 12 500 50% 1 installment due in 5 months
4-Pay 12 1,000 25% 25% in 80 days, 25% in 170 days, and 25% in 260 days
5-Pay 12 500 20% 4 equal installments at 30-day intervals
11-Pay 12 3,000 15% 10 equal installments at 30-day intervals

 

  • Direct Bill Payment Options include a $7 installment fee per installment (no installment fee on down payments for Nebraska, New Hampshire, and Tennessee).
  • An application may be submitted without cash. In this case, policyholders will be billed directly for the down payment.
  • A $25 reactivation fee will be applied to a policy that has lapsed due to nonpayment of premium.
  • A $25 ($20 in Colorado, Idaho, and Utah) fee will be assessed when any premium payment is returned by the bank due to non-sufficient funds (NSF).
  • New business future installments assume policy was issued on or before effective date. If policy is issued after the effective date, the number of installments is determined by the number of months remaining in the term.
  • Down payments may be taken from the agency's account, insured's bank account, or insured's credit card and will be withdrawn/charged after a minimum of 48 hours.
  • Automatic Payment Option
  1. No installment fee if the 1-Pay option is chosen. Automatic payments withdrawn from checking or savings in installments include a $2 installment fee.
  2. For Arizona only, 12-Pay option is available with an 8.3% down payment and 11 equal installments at 30-day intervals. 11-Pay option is not available.
  3. Withdrawals are processed on the effective date of the policy for new business and renewals. Subsequent withdrawals are processed on the anniversary of the effective date as indicated. Choosing withdrawal date is not an option.
  4. At renewal, 13days notice (30 days for Tennessee) is given before the first withdrawal is processed for the item.
  5. To enroll, complete the Commercial Lines Automatic Payment Option Authorization (S-623CL) form. Insured can sign-up online, in the Billing Portal, at acuity.com.

 

AGENCY BILL COMMERCIAL LINES

New business, renewals, audits, and endorsements billed in full to the monthly agency statement, unless Agency Bill Deferred selected.

 

Agency Bill Deferred

Description Term Length Minimum Premium Required Down Payment % Required Future Payments
2-Pay 12 1,000 50% 1 installment due in 6 months
4-Pay 12 1,000 25% 3 equal installments at 90-day intervals
10-Pay 12 1,000 15% 9 equal installments at 30-day intervals
  • All installments include a $7 installment fee per installment (no installment fee on down payments for Nebraska and Tennessee).
  • Minimum premium of $2,000 required.
  • Minimum of $1,000 per installment required.
  • Down payment must be paid in the month the policy is effective or processed, whichever is later.
  • Future premium charges and additions including audit and reporting form premiums will be billed to the agency account in the usual manner. These amounts may not be deferred.

General liability protects your business against another’s claim of bodily injury, personal injury, or property damage arising out of your operations, your premises, or your products. Professional liability provides protection for similar claims arising out of specific professional services.


No. There is no coverage for data breach, cyber liability, or identity theft. Learn more about the Acuity Cyber Suite.


Unfortunately, this is not a simple answer. Your general liability policy provides coverage if your business does not sell, manufacture or furnish alcoholic beverages. A business that sells beer, wine, or liquor, such as a bar, restaurant or liquor store, would need to purchase a separate liquor liability policy.


The special form provides the most comprehensive coverage available. Each coverage situation is unique—your agent would be able to help you decide which cause of loss form is best for your situation. 


Sewer backup coverage is not provided under the standard property policy. You can obtain coverage with the Acuity water backup and sump overflow endorsement.


Acuity’s full building coverage endorsement ensures your building limits are high enough.


Not everyone is eligible for Bis-Pak®, but you should check it out if you are. Bis-Pak® automatically includes business income coverage, seasonal variations in your contents coverage, computer coverage, and much more. 


Yes, Acuity loves truckers and motor carriers. Our in-house trucking expert helps us understand truckers' needs, but also writes blogs, newsletters, and other material to help you with all aspects of your trucking business!


Yes, we make all required filings quickly to get or keep you on the road.


Yes, as long as the vehicles is identified as one that employees are allowed to use during off-business hours.


Many personal auto policies exclude coverage for business use; however, there are options to add a personal vehicle to a business policy. Make sure your agent knows of your business use, and he or she will be able to advise you on the right direction to take.


Many different factors affect workers' compensation premiums. Because some businesses are more dangerous than others, their employees have a higher risk of getting hurt. For example, manufacturing businesses generally have higher work comp premiums than offices. Location is also important as benefits can vary by states. 

 

An employer’s past claim experience may also be taken into account when determining cost. If they are large enough, employers may be assigned an E-Mod which reflects their accident history compared to others in the same industry. Acuity has the tools and experience to help your company improve it’s E-Mod. If you want to learn more about E-Mods check out our video.


Acuity workers’ compensation claims representative will work with you to formulate an individualized return-to-work plan, understanding each employee has different needs. A very important aspect of a return to work plan is  to establish light duty job tasks so your employee is able to be productive while recovering from the work injury.


Some businesses are not able to obtain coverage through a private carrier due to the nature of the business they peform or because of a negative claims history. Many states have created a residual market for employers for just this reason. Your insurance agent may be able to help you apply for this type of state-run plan.


Creating a culture of safety  is important to your employees’ health and your bottom line. You will attract more conscientious candidates leading to a better qualified workforce and less employee turnover. You will also save money on your workers’ compensation premium. Acuity has many resources to help your company improve its safety culture.  


No. The commercial excess liability coverage fits like a glove over and provides the same coverage as the liability coverage you schedule. Additional insured coverage in the underlying policy that is primary and noncontributory requires an endorsement to track the underlying coverage.


You can purchase increased limits as part of the commercial excess liability policy.


Acuity can provide almost any limit you might need.


One advantage of a package policy is you have a single bill for all your Acuity coverages. If you have seperate policies for workers’ compensation, business owners, and auto, you could have three bills.


Yes, you may cancel a line of insurance and keep the remaining insurance in an Acuity commercial package policy.


There are several key differences to be aware of. Bis-Pak® automatically includes business income coverage, computer coverage, and no coinsurance penalty, and 25% automatic increase for seasonal variations in your contents.


Sometimes you are asked to provide additional insured coverage to a business because of an agreement you have with them. They are asking for this because it gives them additional rights.


Special endorsements or policies are required to provide coverage for any professional liability lawsuits you may face.


Equipment breakdown coverage protects refrigeration, air conditioning, electrical, communication, computer, and other systems due to electrical or mechanical breakdown.


Yes. Bis-Pak® automatically insures computers for the additional electrical and mechanical breakdown exposures they face wherever they are located.


Absolutely! Just let us know you need it taken care of, and we will get right to it.


Insurers have covered cargo carried on ships for hundreds of years. Once the cargo landed across the ocean, insurers continued to provide coverage for the cargo while it was transported on land to it's final destination and inland marine coverage was born.


That depends on why you have the property. We offer warehouse liability if you provide storage space, bailee coverage if you are working on the property (like a dry cleanerL, and more, including coverage for machine tools and dies owned by others that you are using.


Sometimes good people do bad things, we know you’ve chosen your employees carefully but the fact remains that almost 90% of all theft losses involve employees.  Employee Theft protects you against theft losses caused your employees.


Yes! Our Cyber Suite offers an enhanced coverage package that includes costs to recreate your data, loss of business income, public relations services, and third-party coverage for compromise (or breach) of data affecting another business that is connected to yours.


Data compromise coverage includes data that is stored on paper such as applications to rent an apartment or employment applications.


The eRiskHub® portal gives you access to resources such as a risk assessment survey, tools to estimate the anticipated cost of a breach, a learning center with articles, white papers, and webinars, as well as a news center so you can keep up with the latest cyber news.


Once you've purchased Acuity Cyber Suite coverage, you just need to login to acuity.com, go to the cyber suite resources page and look for the eRiskHub® banner. 


Some of the equipment covered includes:

  • Telephones
  • Computers
  • Bar-code scanners
  • Cash registers
  • Restaurant point-of-sale systems
  • Security and alarm systems
  • Generators, fans, motors, compressors, and pumps
  • Computer controlled equipment
  • Fax machines, copiers, and printers
  • Pay-at –the-pump machines
  • Heating and air conditioning equipment
  • Boilers and pressure vessels

Equipment breakdown is usually associated with a sudden event that causes operation to cease. Wear and tear occurs over time. 


Coverage does not apply for that situation. However, if an accident results, coverage applies for the loss, damage, or expense caused by the accident.


If multiple pieces of equipment fail at the same time, it will be considered a single event for claims purposes. That’s good news for you, as your deductible would only be applied once.


Warranties and service contracts do not cover many of the causes of equipment breakdown. For example, Acuity’s equipment breakdown coverage protects you from damage due to operator error.  Additionally, loss of income, spoilage, and data restoration are three coverages provided by Acuity’s equipment breakdown coverage that you would not see in a warranty or service contract.


If your employee calls the Acuity Nurse Helpline, the nurse will automatically report the incident to Acuity.


By addressing a case when it first occurs, a quick and accurate care plan can be made.  This often prevents unnecessary emergency room visits, keeping your medical costs down and your experience mod in check.


The nurse will immediately refer your employee to an appropriate provider for further treatment.


No – there is no additional charge for loss control representatives to visit a customer’s location.


Our reps have an average of 27 years experience. Loss control reps have a bachelors degree in safety and certifications such as an associate in risk management and certified safety professional.  Some are also authorized OSHA outreach trainers.


Check out the links above to check out official safety and regulation websites.


Use the link www.nfpa.org and serach the site for the fire protection related information that you need.



Personal insurance

Automatic Payment Options (paid directly from your bank account or credit card)

Description Term Length Minimum Premium Required Down Payment % Required Future Payments
1-Pay 6 &12 None 100%  
6-Pay 6 None 16.7% 5 equal monthly installments
2-Pay 12 None 50% 1 installment due in 5 months
4-Pay 12 None 25% 3 equal quarterly installments
5-Pay 12 None 20% 4 equal monthly installments
12-Pay 12 None 8.3% 11 equal monthly installments

 

Direct Bill Payment Options (paid by check or money order)

Description Term Length Minimum Premium Required Down Payment % Required Future Payments
1-Pay 6 & 12 None 100&  
2-Pay 12 500 50% 1 installment due in 5 months
4-Pay 12 500 25% 25% in 80 days, 25% in 170 days, and 25% in 260 days
5-Pay 12 None 20% 4 equal installments at 30-day intervals
11-Pay 12 1,000 15% 10 equal installments at 30-day intervals

 

  • Direct Bill Payment Options include a $5 installment fee per installment (no installment fee on down payments for Georgia and Tennessee).
  • Applications must be submitted with a down payment.
  • A $20 reactivation fee will be applied to a policy that has lapsed due to nonpayment of premium.
  • A $25 ($20 in Colorado, Idaho, and Utah) fee will be assessed when any premium payment is returned by the bank due to non-sufficient funds (NSF).
  • New business future installments assume policy was issued on or before effective date. If policy is issued after the effective date, the number of installments is determined by the number of months remaining in the term.
  • Down payment may be taken from the agency’s account, insured’s bank account, or insured’s credit card and will be withdrawn/charged after a minimum of 48 hours.
  • Automatic Payment Option
    • Automatic payments withdrawn from checking or savings include a $2 installment fee.
    • Automatic payments charged to a credit card include a $5 installment fee ($2 installment fee for Kansas).
    • No installment if the 1-Pay option is chosen.
    • Withdrawals are processed on the effective date of the policy for new business and renewals. Subsequent withdrawals are processed on the anniversary of the effective date as indicated. Choosing withdrawal date is not an option.
    • To enroll, complete the Personal Lines Automatic Payment Option Authorization (S-623PL) form. Insured can sign-up online, in the Billing Portal, at acuity.com.
  • 11-Pay and 12-Pay payment plans are not available in AR, GA, IA, or TX.


You can access virtual ID cards through our app or you can print a copy of your insurance cards from our website by logging in to your account and clicking on vehicle ID cards from the Your Covered Items page. 


Yes, both your friend and your vehicle are covered under your policy. Our insurance always follows the vehicle, so if you drive a friend’s car, his or her insurance would cover you.


It depends on your comfort level. The same limits and deductibles you have on your personal car also apply to a rental car. However, there are a couple gaps. If you have an accident with your rental car, the rental agency could charge you for the loss of use while the car is being repaired and/or for the diminished value of the car. Purchasing coverage from the rental agency or adding the auto enhancements endorsement to your policy would protect you from these charges.


Both coverages protect against damage to your car. Comprehensive (sometimes known as “other than collision”) pays repair costs for your vehicle when it is damaged by something other than another vehicle, such as animal hits, hail, vandalism, or theft. Collision pays repair costs for your vehicle when it is damaged by another vehicle or a stationary object like a tree or lamppost. 


It's the amount you agree to pay for repairs before Acuity starts covering costs. 


If you have comprehensive coverage on your vehicle, yes, the vehicle repairs are covered, subject to your deductible.


Yes, your motorcycle policy provides coverage for passengers on your bike, as well as friends you let borrow your bike.  


Yes, collision coverage pays for damage to helmets and safety apparel with no maximum limit.


Roadside assistance is part of towing and labor coverage. Purchase towing and labor coverage and you have roadside assistance!


Yes, but payment for services will have to be made up-front.


Emergency roadside assistance is available by calling 866.732.1466. This number can also be found on the back of your Insurance ID card.


It depends. First, you must have a sewer or drain backup endorsement on your policy. Second, the water damage is only covered if the sump pump fails or water is coming through drains. Water damage is not covered if it’s due to flooding. That would be covered under a separate flood insurance policy.


Homeowners insurance can include coverage for damage to the house, damage or loss of personal property, personal liability to others, and additional living costs if your home is uninhabitable.


Yes, your medical payments coverage will kick in to pay for the medical bills of the injured neighbor. If you were found to be negligent, your liability coverage will apply instead of medical payments.


It’s different for everyone. The cost of homeowners insurance depends on the type of home you have, how it’s constructed, where it’s located, and much more. Get an online home insurance quote to see how much home insurance is for you.


Yes, your belongings are covered while traveling anywhere in the world. There may be limits for specific items, so check with your agent before you leave. 


If you have towing and labor coverage, you also have 24/7 emergency roadside assistance coverage. Just call 866.732.1466. 


An insurance package combines separate insurance policies into one plan. Your car, home, and umbrella information may often be organized under one policy number.


Certain packaged policies, like Road and Residence, also come with special, built-in features that benefit you. Plus working with one carrier, instead of multiple, is easy and convenient.


The Road and Residence program is a combination of auto, home, and other personal lines policies. Special coverages are automatically included, and special features apply, such as having one high property limit and a single deductible regardless of the types of property damaged.


A Per-Pak combines any of your personal lines policies into one package with one common annual policy period and one billing plan. This option works best if you don’t need both auto and home insurance.  For example, you can package a car and boat under a Per-Pak policy. 


Maybe not. You have a lot to lose. The more you own, the more you can lose if someone sues you. In addition to an extra layer of coverage, a personal umbrella policy provides peace of mind.


Once you’ve exhausted the limits on your auto, home, or other policies, your personal umbrella policy will kick in.


Yes, both your auto and homeowners coverage must be with Acuity, and they must have certain minimum limits. 


We offer personal umbrella limits from 1 million up to 10 million.


No, your landlord’s insurance only covers the rental building itself, not your belongings or liability for accidents.


Renters insurance covers loss or damage to your belongings caused by things like fire, theft, smoke, vandalism, explosion, and windstorms. It also covers your liability—things like guest’s medical expenses if an accident happens. 


Accidents happen. You can end up on the hook for legal fees or medical expenses if someone were to get hurt at your apartment. Renters insurance helps pay for those types of bills. 


No, your roommate’s insurance policy will cover his or her own possessions, but not yours.  To cover your belongings, you need your own renters insurance policy.


No, condo association coverage will only cover the exterior of the condo. You will need separate condo insurance to protect the inside of your condo, your possessions, and your liability.


You can determine the contents coverage needed by going through each room and making an inventory of your belongings, including things like furniture, appliances, electronics, and clothes. Add up the value of all your items, and that’s how much coverage you need.


Condo insurance only covers the interior of a condo, whereas homeowners insurance covers both the interior and the exterior of a home. Condo owners only need to cover the interior because their condo association takes care of the exterior.  


Call us at 800.242.7666. We will connect you to a fraud specialist from CyberScout who will guide you through the resolution process.


Members of your household can receive one-on-one advocacy services for several scenarios including account takeover or identity theft, lost wallets or purses, compromised personal information, worldwide travelers, disaster recovery, tax fraud, email compromise, phishing scams, and so much more.


Just $35 annually. 


Unfortunately, there are many ways thieves commit identity theft. A few common ways include mail theft, dumpster diving, phishing, and shoulder surfing in a public setting.


Yes, a 5% discount applies if the principal operator of the yacht has successfully completed a course through the U.S. Power Squadron or U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.


Yes, passengers on the boat are covered under the liability portion of the policy.


A $5,000 limit for accessories and personal effects is included at no charge. Higher limits are available—just talk to your agent.


ATV insurance covers physical damage to your 4-wheeler, damage to other people’s property, as well as medical costs for others if they get injured. 


No, trailers are not covered under ATV insurance. Trailers can be covered as a separate item. Talk with your agent if you’d like to add coverage for a trailer. 


Yes, your ATV policy provides coverage for passengers. Coverage is also available if you let your friend borrow your ATV, as long as the operator is over age 16.


Yes, there are more risks to consider than simply the cost of repairing your boat.  You should also be prepared to cover the medical bills of others if there is an accident. You may also need to pay the cost to repair another person’s property or boat.


Yes, as long as you give permission, your friend can drive your boat under your insurance.


You have coverage for claims occurring on land, inland waters, or coastal waters within 100 miles of the continental United States or Canada.


Snowmobile insurance covers physical damage to your snowmobile, damage to other people’s property, as well as medical costs if others get injured.


Yes, your snowmobile policy provides coverage for passengers. Coverage is also available if you let your friend borrow your snowmobile, as long as the driver is over age 16.


No, trailers used to transport the snowmobile, as well as trailers or sleds designed to be towed by the snowmobile, need to be insured separately. Talk with your agent if you’d like to add coverage for a trailer. 


It all depends on the type of snowmobile you have, your location, and how you’re using your snowmobile. Contact your agent to see how much snowmobile insurance would cost for you.


If you have towing and labor coverage, you also have 24/7 emergency roadside assistance coverage.


No, your policy coverages do not apply while renting or leasing your motor home to others. 


Pretty much! There is coverage while the RV is in the U.S., its territories, Canada, or between their ports. 



Billing

Automatic Payment Options (paid directly from your bank account or credit card)

Description Term Length Minimum Premium Required Down Payment % Required Future Payments
1-Pay 6 &12 None 100%  
6-Pay 6 None 16.7% 5 equal monthly installments
2-Pay 12 None 50% 1 installment due in 5 months
4-Pay 12 None 25% 3 equal quarterly installments
5-Pay 12 None 20% 4 equal monthly installments
12-Pay 12 None 8.3% 11 equal monthly installments

 

Direct Bill Payment Options (paid by check or money order)

Description Term Length Minimum Premium Required Down Payment % Required Future Payments
1-Pay 6 & 12 None 100&  
2-Pay 12 500 50% 1 installment due in 5 months
4-Pay 12 500 25% 25% in 80 days, 25% in 170 days, and 25% in 260 days
5-Pay 12 None 20% 4 equal installments at 30-day intervals
11-Pay 12 1,000 15% 10 equal installments at 30-day intervals

 

  • Direct Bill Payment Options include a $5 installment fee per installment (no installment fee on down payments for Georgia and Tennessee).
  • Applications must be submitted with a down payment.
  • A $20 reactivation fee will be applied to a policy that has lapsed due to nonpayment of premium.
  • A $25 ($20 in Colorado, Idaho, and Utah) fee will be assessed when any premium payment is returned by the bank due to non-sufficient funds (NSF).
  • New business future installments assume policy was issued on or before effective date. If policy is issued after the effective date, the number of installments is determined by the number of months remaining in the term.
  • Down payment may be taken from the agency’s account, insured’s bank account, or insured’s credit card and will be withdrawn/charged after a minimum of 48 hours.
  • Automatic Payment Option
    • Automatic payments withdrawn from checking or savings include a $2 installment fee.
    • Automatic payments charged to a credit card include a $5 installment fee ($2 installment fee for Kansas).
    • No installment if the 1-Pay option is chosen.
    • Withdrawals are processed on the effective date of the policy for new business and renewals. Subsequent withdrawals are processed on the anniversary of the effective date as indicated. Choosing withdrawal date is not an option.
    • To enroll, complete the Personal Lines Automatic Payment Option Authorization (S-623PL) form. Insured can sign-up online, in the Billing Portal, at acuity.com.
  • 11-Pay and 12-Pay payment plans are not available in AR, GA, IA, or TX.


DIRECT BILL COMMERCIAL LINES

Automatic Payment Options (paid directly from your bank account)

Description Term Length Minimum Premium Required Down Payment % Required Future Payments
1-Pay 12 None 100%  
2-Pay 12 None 50% 1 installment due in 5 months
4-Pay 12 None 25% 3 equal installments at 90-day intervals
5-Pay 12 None 20% 4 equal installments at 30-day intervals
11-Pay*  12 None 9.1% 10 equal installments at 30-day intervals

*For Arizona only, the 12-Pay option is available with an 8.3% down payment and 11 equal installments at 30-day intervals. 11-Pay option is not available.

 

Direct Bill Payment Options (paid by check or money order)

Description Term Length Minimum Premium Required Down Payment % Required Future Payments
1-Pay 12 None 100%  
2-Pay 12 500 50% 1 installment due in 5 months
4-Pay 12 1,000 25% 25% in 80 days, 25% in 170 days, and 25% in 260 days
5-Pay 12 500 20% 4 equal installments at 30-day intervals
11-Pay 12 3,000 15% 10 equal installments at 30-day intervals

 

  • Direct Bill Payment Options include a $7 installment fee per installment (no installment fee on down payments for Nebraska, New Hampshire, and Tennessee).
  • An application may be submitted without cash. In this case, policyholders will be billed directly for the down payment.
  • A $25 reactivation fee will be applied to a policy that has lapsed due to nonpayment of premium.
  • A $25 ($20 in Colorado, Idaho, and Utah) fee will be assessed when any premium payment is returned by the bank due to non-sufficient funds (NSF).
  • New business future installments assume policy was issued on or before effective date. If policy is issued after the effective date, the number of installments is determined by the number of months remaining in the term.
  • Down payments may be taken from the agency's account, insured's bank account, or insured's credit card and will be withdrawn/charged after a minimum of 48 hours.
  • Automatic Payment Option
  1. No installment fee if the 1-Pay option is chosen. Automatic payments withdrawn from checking or savings in installments include a $2 installment fee.
  2. For Arizona only, 12-Pay option is available with an 8.3% down payment and 11 equal installments at 30-day intervals. 11-Pay option is not available.
  3. Withdrawals are processed on the effective date of the policy for new business and renewals. Subsequent withdrawals are processed on the anniversary of the effective date as indicated. Choosing withdrawal date is not an option.
  4. At renewal, 13days notice (30 days for Tennessee) is given before the first withdrawal is processed for the item.
  5. To enroll, complete the Commercial Lines Automatic Payment Option Authorization (S-623CL) form. Insured can sign-up online, in the Billing Portal, at acuity.com.

 

AGENCY BILL COMMERCIAL LINES

New business, renewals, audits, and endorsements billed in full to the monthly agency statement, unless Agency Bill Deferred selected.

 

Agency Bill Deferred

Description Term Length Minimum Premium Required Down Payment % Required Future Payments
2-Pay 12 1,000 50% 1 installment due in 6 months
4-Pay 12 1,000 25% 3 equal installments at 90-day intervals
10-Pay 12 1,000 15% 9 equal installments at 30-day intervals
  • All installments include a $7 installment fee per installment (no installment fee on down payments for Nebraska and Tennessee).
  • Minimum premium of $2,000 required.
  • Minimum of $1,000 per installment required.
  • Down payment must be paid in the month the policy is effective or processed, whichever is later.
  • Future premium charges and additions including audit and reporting form premiums will be billed to the agency account in the usual manner. These amounts may not be deferred.

Yes! We provide multiple ways to pay your bill.

  • You can pay online by logging into your account or use your Policy Number, ZIP code, and Agency Code to make a payment without logging in.
  • You can pay over the phone by calling billing at 800.242.7666 ext. 5511. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (CST).

No. Its easy to make a payment. All you need is your Policy Number, Zip Code, and Agency Code.


Never. We will not charge additional fees to pay online or by phone. However, standard installment fees outlined in your pay plan will still apply. 


For security reasons, only you can make an online or phone payment.


If you have an online account with us, you can view your current balance on the Billing Portal. If you have not registered for an account online, select Pay My Bill and enter your Policy Number, Zip Code, and Agency Code. The next screen will show the amount currently due, if any.


Payments will be applied to your policy the same day they are received. Payments entered or made after 6:00 p.m. (CST) will be considered received the next business day.


Unfortunately, payment due dates are based on the effective date of your policy and cannot be changed.  If you would like to discuss different payment options, please call billing at 800.242.7666 ext. 5511.


Sorry, withdrawals are based on the effective date of your policy and cannot be changed.


Please call billing at 800.242.7666 ext. 5511 to request a stop on your automatic payment option. From there we can discuss other options.


You can update bank account and credit card information in the Billing Portal at acuity.com.


We will submit the request for payment after midnight on your policy's payment date. It can take up to 3 days for your bank to process the payment.


  • For policies with Direct Bill Payment Options, a bill or notice of cancellation may be sent if your payment is returned due to insufficient funds.
  • For policies with Automatic Payment Options, the policy will be placed on Direct Bill Payment Options and a bill or cancellation notice may be sent. Please call billing at 800.242.7666 ext. 5511 to discuss options.

No.  Policies are billed and must be paid separately.  Each payment should include the identifying policy number.


Your policy number can be found on several documents, including:

  • The "Payment Remittance" portion of your bill, next to the due date
  • Your vehicle ID cards
  • Your policy declaration page

Not exactly. However, you can always view your billing activity in your billing history on the Billing Portal. Or, if you are a personal insurance policyholder you can sign up for email notifications when your bills and/or policy documents are available to view.


Yes, you can sign up for payment reminders with your online account. Create an account to get started. Already have an account? Visit My Account. Reminders are sent 5 days prior to your payment due date.


You can discuss payment options by calling billing at 800.242.7666 ext. 5511.


Contact your agent for more details on policy reinstatement.


To help make sure we receive your payment on time, we recommend mailing your payment a minimum of 10 business days before your payment due date.



AcuitySmartPay

To issue a policy on AcuitySmartPay, you will need to submit the following:
AcuitySmartPay Agreement
AcuitySmartPay billing contact name, phone number, and email address
Banking information to set up automatic withdrawals of your monthly premium payments from a checking or savings account of your choice


To access your AcuitySmartPay monthly report, you must sign in to the Acuity website using the login ID and password you created;  then click on the AcuitySmartPay link.  If you do not have a login ID and password, go to www.Acuity.com and click on New User.  If you are unable to create a login ID and password, contact an Acuity customer service representative at 800.242.7666, extension 4357.


Log into the Acuity website. Click on your name in the upper right-hand corner. Update your name or email address. If you need to update other contacts on your policy, please contact an Acuity customer service representative at 800.242.7666, extension 5533.


Log in to the Acuity website.  Click on your name in the upper right-hand corner.  When the question “Do you want to be designated as an AcuitySmartPay contact?” is displayed, select “Yes.”  A message stating “Your information has been successfully updated.” will be displayed.


Log in to the Acuity website.  Click Next report available on the Customer Care page. On the Reporting Periods screen, click Enter in the Action column for the next available report.  Enter exposure information for all class codes displayed and submit the information.  For more detailed instructions, please review the AcuitySmartPay User Guide. 


Monthly reports are due on the 15th of each month even if the 15th falls on a holiday or weekend.  The due date for the first monthly report may vary based on policy effective date.  To access pending and completed monthly reports, click on the AcuitySmartPay link located on the Customer Care page of the Acuity website.


If you forget to submit your monthly report, Acuity will calculate an estimated report based on 2/12 the current estimated annual exposures.  In addition, Acuity will add the monthly installment for your other commercial lines coverages. A second missed report in the same policy term will result in removal from the AcuitySmartPay program.


If you have entered an incorrect payroll amount, please contact an Acuity customer service representative at 800.242.7666, extension 5511.


A report will be created for each month within the policy term once the policy is issued.  The report for the first month must be completed before the next month’s report will become available.  Report due dates may be adjusted based on the date the policy was issued. 


It is important to submit your report every month even if you do not have any payroll to report.  Simply enter zero in the gross payroll fields when submitting payroll information.


You can be logged out of your AcuitySmartPay session if: 
Connectivity with your internet service provider was lost.
A technical problem occurred within the AcuitySmartPay system.
The session was inactive for more than 30 minutes.  This is referred to as “timing out.”


If you are logged out of the system due to inactivity, you will be returned to the Log In screen and any unsaved changes will be lost.


If you are logged out of the system or close your AcuitySmartPay session before completing your monthly report, any unsaved changes will be lost and you will be required to reenter the report.  You can save the monthly report by clicking on the “Save Without Submitting” button at the bottom of the screen.  Your report will not be submitted until you accept the AcuitySmartPay Terms and Conditions and click the “Continue” button on Step 4 of the monthly reporting process.


At this time, AcuitySmartPay is only available for Workers’ Compensation.  However, any other lines of insurance on your policy will be billed monthly in conjunction with Workers’ Compensation.


Yes.  When you log in to submit your monthly AcuitySmartPay Report, you will also see the monthly installment for your other commercial lines coverages.  By using AcuitySmartPay, you authorize Acuity to make a withdrawal from the account of your choice for ALL of your monthly premium.


Yes.  If you would like to switch from AcuitySmartPay to another payment plan, please contact an Acuity customer service representative at 800.242.7666 extension 5511.


No.  All Workers’ Compensation policies are subject to an audit.   If the payroll information is entered accurately during the policy term, there should be no surprises when the audit is completed.


Audits are handled just like any other Acuity payment plan. 


Possibly.  However, any refunds or owed premium balances typically are significantly smaller than traditional payment plan audits.  Also, because your premium is calculated monthly based on what you report every month, the more accurate you are in your reporting, the less chance of any surprises during your audit.


Fixed charges include the following:
Class codes which are not based on payroll
Expense constant
Flat fees


Fees would include the following:
Automatic payments withdrawn from checking or savings include a $2 service charge.
A $25 ($20 in Arizona and Tennessee) fee will be assessed when any premium payment is returned by the bank due to non-sufficient funds (NSF).
A $20 fee will be assessed if an Acuity employee enters the monthly payroll for you.


Yes. A down payment of 10% of the estimated Workers’ Compensation and other commercial lines premium is required when a policy is initially set up on AcuitySmartPay. The Workers’ Compensation portion of the down payment is credited to the Workers’ Compensation premium paid at audit. For any non-Workers’ Compensation lines of insurance, the 10% down payment is applied to the amount due, with the remaining 90% of premium being spread out over the remaining installments.



Account information

Creating an account is easy. Simply click "Sign in" at the top screen, then click "Create account". All you will need is your policy number, mailing street address, and ZIP code to get started.


Creating an account will give you access to an entire suite of tools including make a payment, report a claim, and view copies of your policy documents of vehicle ID cards all with a click of a button.


If you already have an account with us but have another policy, you will have to register your new policy with us for it to appear on your account. On the customer care page click "Register another policy." You'll need your policy number, mailing street address, and ZIP code.


There are a few things to consider when changing your password. Make sure your new password is 6 characters long, at least one alpha character, and one numeric character. It also can't be a password you've used with us before. Once you click submit, exit out of your browser. When you come back to our site your new password should be ready to use.


No fear! Our Help Desk team is here to save the day. If your with us during standard business hours, our live chat will be available from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Or, you can call 800.242.7666 ext. 4357 (HELP) or email us at help.desk@acuity.com.


Find your vehicle ID cards by logging into your account and clicking on Vehicle ID Cards on the Customer Care page.


You can access a copy of your policy by logging into your account. From the customer care page click on View Policy Documents then simply choose which document you would like to see.


Sorry, online policy changes are not available at this time.  Please contact Acuity or your agent for assistance.



Claims

If you’re involved in an auto accident, contact our claims office at 800.242.7666. You can also contact your local agent or report the claim online. When reporting a claim, please have all the pertinent information available, such as the date, time, location of the loss, and names and contact information of the parties involved.


Once the claim is reported to our claims office, you will be contacted by your assigned claims representative who will walk you through our claims process and answer any questions.  Our goal is to contact you the same business day or within 24 hours of when the loss is reported.


There are a lot of factors that go into establishing your rates. Ask your agent for more information on how your policy is rated.


Yes. However, if a lienholder or loss payee is listed for the vehicle, their name must be included on the check to protect their interest.


No you can remain anonymous. If you are comfortable providing your information, please do, so we may follow up with any questions.


There are a variety of insurance scams, but here are some to keep an eye out for.

Storm chasers. Be leery of contractors from out of town who show up at your door after a storm. Use a reputable local contractor and be sure to read and understand any contract before signing. Report the claim to us before a contractor repairs the damage.

Staged accidents. Some crooks may intentionally cause an accident and even add passengers to their vehicle after the crash. If this happens to you, please call the police to the scene of the accident. Take photos of involved vehicles and the scene. Count the number of passengers in the other vehicle and get their information.  Also, be sure to collect information from any witnesses to the accident.

Windshield claims. If you are approached unsolicited by somebody who offers to replace your windshield for free, please contact us first. We will get you connected with a reputable company that can inspect and determine if your windshield needs repair or replacement.

Towing claims. After you’re involved in an accident, a towing company shows up at the scene without anyone calling them. Take advantage of our roadside assistance network to get access to a reliable towing company that you can trust.

Workers’ Compensation claims. A coworker gets injured off the job or doesn’t get injured at all, but submits a claim against the company’s workers’ compensation policy. Contact your supervisor or Acuity to report this information.


This is a myth we often hear, but rest assured, you are not responsible for just being in an accident. Depending on the circumstances, another party can be solely responsible for an accident.


Yes. The other insurance carrier needs to complete their investigation similar to how we complete ours. If you are uncomfortable with anything they may be asking, please contact us to discuss your concerns. It is your right to refuse a recorded statement to the other person’s insurance carrier.


The claim should be reported to Acuity as soon as practicable or reasonable.


Acuity offers a number of preapproved auto repair shops (PARS). By taking your vehicle to an approved shop, you will save time, reduce paperwork, and the shop guarantees their work. However, you may still choose to use your own repair shop and provide an estimate. On occasion, we may ask for more than one estimate, or we may need to inspect your vehicle.


Our checks state void after 60 days. However, please contact Acuity or your bank to see if the check can be honored past the issued date. If your bank will not accept the check, please notify Acuity and a new payment can be issued.


When filing a collision claim for damage to your own auto, your policy deductible will apply. If someone else is legally responsible for your damage, Acuity will seek reimbursement from the responsible person or their insurance company. We will attempt to recover your deductible and any additional out-of-pocket expenses on your behalf. Once reimbursement is received, your deductible will be forwarded to you.


If you are at fault and cause damage to another person’s property or injure them, a deductible will not apply to that portion of the loss, the portion using your liability coverage. Your deductible only applies to claims made for damage to your vehicle.


The value is determined based upon the vehicle’s options, mileage, and condition.  Your vehicle may be inspected by an Acuity representative.  


Please notify Acuity or your agent immediately. Please submit a copy of the suit papers directly to us. There is a specific timeline in which a response to the lawsuit needs to be filed. In most cases, Acuity will hire an attorney on your behalf. 


Contact the police to report the incident. This is considered a collision loss and your collision deductible applies. We will set up a claim and ask that you get an estimate for your damage.


Your auto policy is strictly for damage to your vehicle. Any personal belongings should be covered under your rental or homeowners coverage. However, please review any endorsements you may have which could provide a limited amount of coverage to your personal property.


Insurance follows the vehicle rather than the driver.  The insurance carrier of the vehicle (or the owner if there is no insurance) has the responsibility for any damages caused by the at-fault vehicle, regardless of who was driving.  If your friends does not have insurance, please contact your agent or Acuity to discuss if your policy may have any applicable coverage.


Insurance follows the vehicle rather than the driver.  It is your responsibility for any damages caused by your vehicle if you had given permissive use of your vehicle to the driver involved in the accident.


The government requires social security numbers in all files in which there is an injury in which Medicare may be involved. Other insurance companies may request this information as well.


Acuity will pay for a rental vehicle depending on the applicable coverage or endorsements on your policy. This is an optional coverage which can be purchased.


To request roadside assistance (including towing, tire changes, jump starts, fuel and fluids delivery, lockouts, and winching), please contact Acuity Roadside Assistance at 866.732.1466. 



Acuity Nurse Helpline

There is no enrollment procedure. Simply call the Acuity Nurse Helpline number, with an active Acuity policy number, for nonemergency work-related injuries.


There is no cost to insureds. Acuity pays for the service. 


Yes, any active Acuity workers’ compensation policyholder can use the program.


The only piece of information really needed is the policy number. The triage nurse will guide the injured worker through the triage assessment. 


The nurse is not an Acuity employee. We have contracted with Medcor to provide the service.


es, Medcor always sends Acuity a report of the triage call. The triage report is used to set up the claim in our system as a record-only claim or a first-report claim, depending on whether treatment was sought.


If the claim remains in record-only status and the injured worker does not seek treatment, the call will not count against the experience mod.


Depending on treatment outcomes, the use of the program may have a positive impact on policy cost. 


No, all nurses contracted through Medcor are licensed and carry medical malpractice insurance.


Yes, as our insured, you will receive a Notice of Receipt of Claim by mail, outlining each helpline call.


The service is available 24/7. Acuity is notified of the call the next business day. 


Acuity’s WC Medical Reps see all nurse helpline reports and determine if the claim should remain as record-only or if the claim needs further attention/handling. Please be assured, all information in our files is confidential and never sold to any outside parties.



Trucking insurance

Our standard coverages will meet most of your needs. Optional coverages tailor your policy to your unique business. Work with your agent to see what optional coverages are right for you.


If your insured vehicle is involved in a loss, that often means you lose the income that vehicle would have earned. Business income coverage protects your business by replacing the lost operating income during the period your vehicle or equipment is being repaired or replaced.


Most states require employers to have this coverage. If an employee gets hurt on the job, workers’ compensation pays for  medical costs so you don't have to. It also pays for lost wages if the injury causes missed time from work. Work comp also comes with employment liability coverage, which pays your defense costs if an employee claims the injury was caused by unsafe working conditions.


We started out as Mutual Auto Insurance Company of the Town of Herman in 1925 and have been insuring truckers for over 40 years!


We insure all kinds of motor carriers—common carriers, milk haulers, sand & gravel, flatbeds, refrigerated freight, and much more! 


Both—and everything in between! We have the expertise and coverages to adequately insure large trucking firms, yet we understand the unique needs and market demands of small operations. 


Yes. Acuity will make the necessary federal and state filings your operation needs. Whether it is a financial proof of responsibility or a cargo filing, Acuity knows these filings are critical to your business and will handle them for you when you need them.


We are one of the rare companies that maintain A+ financial ratings from A.M. Best and Standard and Poor’s.  Of the 3,000 property-casualty carriers in the nation, we’ve consistently been ranked as one of the best-run companies by Ward Financial Group.


Having been in the trucking business many years, it was important for me to find a company I was comfortable working with that demonstrated ongoing honesty and integrity in their business practices. I believe I found that with Acuity. In addition, I believe we can revolutionize the relationship between the trucker and insurance company so both understand each other and can partner to obtain the best results possible.


The working knowledge I’ve gained in my 30 years of trucking industry experience allows me to understand our trucking customers’ real-world issues and provide information and training to Acuity employees to better evaluate trucking operations, help reduce their risks, and handle claims. I also assist in developing better products and services for our trucking customers.


Do your due diligence in putting together a good business plan is the best advice I can give. Understand who your customers will be and whether you can find a niche market that sets you apart from others. Consider your accounts receivable and operating cash flow. Will you have enough to buy diesel and pay for repairs, wages, and fees before your cash flow stabilizes? Ask yourself why a professional driver should work for you. What do you offer to meet a driver’s needs and promote a mutually beneficial and long-term relationship? How will your company successfully manage the regulations specific to the trucking industry and employees?  How will you instill safe operations within your company’s culture, so unnecessary and preventable losses do not occur and eat away at profits? Partner with reputable businesses for your fuel, tire, parts, and equipment dealers and  a strong insurance company that understands your industry. A comprehensive business plan will impact how you begin and finance your business and at what speed you may wish to grow.


I like to make a difference in people lives, so working to make Acuity the best insurance company for truckers is very rewarding for me. This reputation has to be earned every day through meeting people’s needs and helping them prepare for any eventuality.


For good or bad, comfortable or not, change is the one thing that is certain in the trucking industry of tomorrow. Change is coming in technology, including communication, planning, logistics, and equipment. Regulations, customer needs, driver availability, and ideas on driver retention need to be considered and planned for. Those who do not plan and just wait for tomorrow to happen may have a harder time catching up in the competitive world of the trucking industry.  As a result, the trucking industry of tomorrow will be more formal, utilizing accepted best practices to ensure efficiencies within their operations.



Contracting insurance

Our standard coverages will meet most of your business needs. Optional coverages tailor your policy to your unique business. Work with your agent to see what optional coverages are right for you.


We understand contractors and realize many have a need for all the coverages in a businessowners policy except property coverage. This is why we created a special no-property businessowners policy for contractors.


Most carriers offer a general liability policy with a limit that is the most they will pay through the policy period no matter how many projects or locations you’ve been working at. Acuity extends this limit to automatically apply separately to each of your projects for no additional charge.   


A contractor or owner may request that you add a waiver of subrogation to your policy. A waiver of subrogation prohibits the insurer from collecting payment from parties responsible for damages to you, when you have agreed in writing to waive our right to collect those payments.


We provide a full range of additional insured options. If your job owner is requesting it, odds are we can provide it!


We insure all kinds of contractors, including everything from steelwork and wallpapering to framing and road building! 


Both—and everything in between! We have the expertise and coverages to adequately insure large construction firms, yet we understand the market demands of small operations. We write thousands of contractors of all sizes.


You can easily get a certificate of insurance from your independent insurance agent or online through our website 24/7!


We started out as Mutual Auto Insurance Company of the Town of Herman in 1925 and have been insuring contractors for over 40 years!


We are one of the rare companies that maintain A+ financial ratings from A.M. Best and Standard and Poor’s. Of the 3,000 property-casualty carriers in the nation, we’ve consistently been ranked as one of the best-run companies by Ward Financial Group.


I’m helping to revolutionize the relationship between contractor and insurance company so both understand each other and can accomplish tasks together as a team.


There is no substitute for experience. Having worked as a carpenter all the way up to a business owner gives me a unique perspective of all aspects of construction. Teaching Acuity’s employees the processes of a construction company helps them better understand contractors, more accurately assess risk, and ensure they have the proper coverages and products to best serve the industry.


Many tradesmen start their own business because they are very skilled and confident in their abilities. On the business side, finding a good construction attorney to review your business practice can eliminate many problems. Let the attorney know how much money you can allocate to get started. Then,  set aside some funds for a business review each year. Get help managing the office if needed. Look for any weaknesses in your company and find the best person to put in that position.


To make Acuity the “go-to” insurance company for contractors—a place where employees, agents, and our insured contractors can continue to be educated on the industry. Understanding the processes and the heart of construction in simple ways can show we know more about the industry than simply writing policies.


I believe we will see rapid advancements in technology, such as 3-D models, intelligent machines, mobile devices, and software. More drones are being used on the job site. Advancements in development of materials, tools, and equipment will continue. Skilled craftsmen will be in high demand, and continuing education will be highly sought out in the changing industry. Developments in industry safety, energy efficiency, and green building design will also continue to develop. As some companies outsource more work, others will self-perform more for project control. Larger companies will obtain in-house legal counsel. Reducing overhead expense and minimizing risk will continue to be priorities.     



Manufacturing insurance

Our standard coverages will meet most of your business needs. Optional coverages tailor your policy to your unique business. Work with your agent to see what optional coverages are right for you.


Most states require employers to have this coverage. If an employee gets hurt on the job, workers’ compensation pays for medical costs so you don't have to. It also pays them for lost wages if the injury causes missed time from work. Work comp also comes with employment liability coverage, which pays your defense costs if an employee claims the injury was caused by unsafe working conditions.

 


For manufacturers, it’s important to know that a standard GL policy excludes product withdrawal from the market as well as errors and omissions. Realizing this, Acuity offers standard product withdrawal coverage and a proprietary E&O coverage to make sure our manufacturers are properly protected.


We started out as Mutual Auto Insurance Company of the Town of Herman in 1925 and have been insuring manufacturers for over 40 years!


We insure all kinds of manufacturers, from food processing and woodworking to plastic and metal goods manufacturing!


We have the expertise and coverages to adequately insure large manufacturing plants, yet we understand the market demands of very small operations. We write thousands of manufacturers of many different sizes.


We are one of the rare companies that maintain A+ financial ratings from A.M. Best and Standard and Poor’s. Of the 3,000 property-casualty carriers in the nation, we’ve consistently been ranked as one of the best-run companies by Ward Financial Group.


Artificial intelligence (AI) is finding its way into manufacturing. Machine maintenance—especially predictive maintenance (PdM)—will benefit greatly from this technology, with improved accuracy and real-time updates. New sensor technology, big data, and analytics have improved CBM (condition-based maintenance) effectiveness. Potential breakdowns can now be predicted within minutes allowing operations and maintenance teams to be more proactive.

 

A safety tool that has found great acceptance and is being used widely within the manufacturing sector is exoskeletons, which range from full body suits to small add-ons like shoulder or arm support to eliminate repetitive motion injuries. New exoskeletons are so customizable that they can easily be user adjusted as well as job and task specific, which should help reduce workers’ compensation issues.


At Acuity, we take your business as seriously as we take ours. I have decades of manufacturing experience and stay up to date on issues and technologies. We attend trade shows and interact daily with the industry. We know manufacturing and want to partner with you and help you achieve continued success in your business.


Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, has found wide applications within manufacturing. Over the last few years, it has become more than a prototype tool. The list of material that can now be “printed” ranges from plastics to a variety of metals, ceramics, and carbon fiber. This makes 3D printing even more versatile than most predicted even a few years ago. We are also seeing hybrid machines within manufacturing that have combined traditional subtractive machining, the removal of material, with the additive capability of 3D printing. Hybrid machines have increased capabilities and efficiencies unlike anything we have seen since CNC machines become the new machining standard.


Lean is about adding value to the product and focuses on removing waste from the manufacturing process. It starts with simple workplace organization, like 5S and the identification and elimination of the eight types of waste. Lean is not one simple thing—it is a culture in which everyone is empowered and focused on continuous improvement. Lean is as critical, even in today’s modern manufacturing, as it was when it started. It should be the foundation of any successful manufacturing operation.



Retail insurance

Equipment breakdown coverage is broader and covers air conditioning equipment, whereas food spoilage coverage is specific to food spoilage caused by equipment or mechanical breakdown or failure.


A return-to-work (RTW) program is a way to get injured workers back to work more quickly. Job duties may be modified to accommodate an injured worker’s temporary impairment. Employers embracing a RTW program gain reward across every area of operational effectiveness. Most people want to be productive, generating value for themselves, their family, and their employer. An effective RTW plan reassures your employee that he or she is respected and valued. Additionally, if you are a company that has an E-Mod applied to your work comp insurance premium, an RTW program can help limit the negative impact a loss has on the E-Mod calculation.


Thankfully, bringing charges against an employee who stole from you isn’t required for you to make a claim. This can help you through some awkward situations and may make the process easier. However, a filed police report will be required during the claims process.


We started out as Mutual Auto Insurance Company of the Town of Herman in 1925 and have been insuring mercantile risks for over 40 years!


We insure a wide variety of retail risks, from restaurants and grocery stores to sporting goods and hardware stores. 


We are one of the rare companies that maintain A+ financial ratings from A.M. Best and Standard and Poor’s.  Of the 3,000 property-casualty carriers in the nation, we’ve consistently been ranked as one of the best-run companies by Ward Financial Group.


While it isn’t mandatory, it is recommended for safety purposes. A bathroom log not only assigns cleaning tasks, but also creates a culture of responsible safety practices. If water or soap is left on the floor, employees or customers could slip and get seriously injured.


A sick leave policy is important for two reasons. First, if your employees come to work ill, they may get other employees and customers sick, spreading illness and creating staffing and service issues for your business. Second, it is a way for you to let your employees know you care for their health and respect them, which will help improve their morale and performance.


We all hope that a crisis never happens, but the truth is they do happen. If you are unprepared, a crisis can easily lead to loss of your business. Make plans to ensure you and your employees are prepared for a fire, tornado, or other unforeseen event. That way, if a crisis does happen, it will be less chaotic and recovery will be more efficient.



Premium audit

According to your insurance policy, we have up to three years after the expiration date on the policy in order to conduct an audit. The vast majority of audits are completed a few months after the expiration date.


Keep detailed records. It will be to your advantage to:

  • Show payroll with summaries by employee, by department, and by class code.

 

  • Provide clear information on the type of work or job duties each employee completed during the policy term.

 

  • Keep up-to-date certificates of insurance for all subcontractors used. (This applies to Contractors.)

 

  • Show sales information type by week or month.

 

  • Provide receipts and costs by type and by source.

The rules vary by state. Each state decides which rules to apply by statute. These rules are found in the basic manual for each state. The interpretation of rules are from the Premium Audit Advisory Service (PAAS) which is an independent industry organization dedicated to the fair and consistent treatment of audit issues. There are also some Acuity company procedures that are based on common practices found throughout the property and casualty insurance industry.


In your Workers’ Compensation policy, owners, officers, partners, and members can elect to be covered or elect not to be covered depending on the rules that vary by state. This must be done before the policy is issued. Your agent can show you how to do this. You do not have this choice under your General Liability policy.


If the owner, partner, officer or member is covered under the policy, those wages will be included at either a fixed amount or a variable amount subject to maximums and minimums depending on your state rules for your business type.


According to state rules we are required to show an annualized payroll instead of actual payrolls. There also is a “short rate” cancellation charge. Individual rates are adjusted on the statement to make the final premium appropriate to your reported payroll.


Audit payroll is called remuneration in the basic manual rules. Remuneration means money or substitutes for money.


Remuneration can be defined as “the total remuneration for services performed by an employee.” This may be money and substitutes for money and includes: y Wages and Salaries (including retroactive wages)

  • Bonuses and Stocks

 

  • Commissions and Draws

 

  • Incentive Pay and Profit Sharing

 

  • Payment for Piece Work y Premium Overtime Pay

 

  • Pay for Holiday, Vacation and Sickness (except South Dakota)

 

  • Meals Received as Pay

 

  • Lodging received by an employee as part of their pay

 

  • Store certificates or Merchandise

 

  • Payments for salary reduction, employee savings plans, retirement or cafeteria plans (IRC 125) that are made through employee-authorized salary reduction from the employee's gross pay

 

  • Payment by an employer of amounts that have been withheld from employees to meet statutory obligations for insurance or pension plans such as the Federal Social Security Act or Medicare

  • Tips or other gratuities received by employees

 

  • Payments by an employer to group insurance or group pension plans for employees, other than those covered by Rule 2-B-1-f and Rule 2-B-1-m

 

  • Payments by an employer into third-party trusts for the Davis-Bacon Act or a similar prevailing wage law provided the pension trust is qualified under IRC Sections 401(a) and 501(a)

 

  • The value of special rewards for individual invention or discovery

 

  • Dismissal or severance payments except for time worked or vacation accrued

 

  • Payments for active military duty

 

  • Employee discounts on goods purchased from the employee's employer

 

  • Expense reimbursements to employees to the extent that an employer's records confirm that the expense was incurred as a valid business expense

 

  • Supper money for late work

 

  • Work uniform allowances

 

  • Employer-provided perks

 

  • Employer contributions to employee benefit plans

When preparing for your audit, refer to these helpful tips:

  • If your audit is based on payroll, separate any overtime (regular pay plus overtime pay) you paid to your employees. Summarize this overtime by classification. We will exclude the excess payroll in our calculations.

 

  • If you are in a construction business, make sure you have current certificates of insurance for each of the subcontractors that you used during the policy period. Also make sure that the certificate of insurance is for the same type of insurance coverage being audited. For example, if we audit your Workers’ Compensation policy, be sure the certificate of insurance indicates Workers’ Compensation coverage.

 

  • Make sure that the corporate officer pay or owner/partner pay is available separately. There are different rules that apply.

 

  • If you have any questions about the upcoming audit, please call the auditor or your agent before the audit appointment.

 

  • If you have any questions about the audit process, please ask the auditor. Many problems or disputes can be best handled during the audit when both parties can talk directly.


Texas HCN

A health care network is an organization certified by the Texas Department of Insurance and under contract with an insurance carrier to deliver health care to injured workers.


  • Networks control costs by contracting with health care providers to perform health services at pre-negotiated rates below Texas State Fee Schedule. Employers who complete the enrollment process as required by Texas workers’ compensation statutes are eligible for a premium reduction.
  • Networks are required to offer an adequate number of providers per state-certified geographic service area to ensure appropriate access to medical care.
  • With the use of return-to-work guidelines chosen by the network, the employee’s medical progress can be monitored as well as their ability to return to the job.
  • The use of a treating provider as a gatekeeper helps closely supervise patient care and progress under treatment.
  • Physicians are required to work with case managers to help facilitate treatment for injured workers.
  • A quality improvement program is in place to continuously evaluate the network’s overall effectiveness and ensure continuous improvement.

Most eligible policyholders will receive an annual network premium discount of 10 percent. For mid-term endorsements, the 10 percent is prorated for the remainder of the policy term. The network discount is only applicable to Texas premium.


Yes, eligible accounts can opt into the network during the policy period, and the discount will be applied pro-rata. Contact your agent for assistance.


Yes, you must complete the enrollment process to participate in Acuity’s health care network.


Following the completion of the steps outlined in our Enrollment Checklist & Instructions document located at acuity.com/TexasHCN, fill out and send to Acuity the Attestation Form also on our website.


No, once the notice has been distributed and the acknowledgment form is signed, the network requirements remain in place as long as the policyholder stays with Acuity. However, a second acknowledgment form is required when an injury occurs.


The employer should keep records of the distribution, method of delivery, date of delivery, and any refusals to sign the form. An employee who receives the employee notice but refuses to sign the acknowledgment form is subject to network requirements, unless the employee has pre-designated his/her HMO treating doctor. Pre-designation must be done directly with the network prior to injury. An injured employee who seeks care outside the network and has not pre-designated his/her HMO treating doctor, may be financially responsible for his/her medical costs.


A list of network providers is available at corvel.com/ppo-lookup/. From the website, choose the ‘Texas CorCare Certified Network’. You may also email Texas@corvel.com, or call CorVel at 866.353.9768.


Each network determines what specialties are included as treating physicians. CorVel’s current network does not include physical therapists, occupational therapists, or chiropractors as treating physicians.


Employer compliance will be examined on a case-by-case basis. Acuity will work with policyholders to ensure they understand their responsibilities and are fully informed. The Texas Health Care Network Endorsement allows Acuity to remove the credit for making the network election if the employer does not comply with their responsibilities.


You will be able to opt out of the network mid-term. Fill out and send to Acuity the HCN Enrollment Termination Form located at acuity.com/TexasHCN.


CorVel has a strategic advantage by owning their own contracts and building relationships with providers directly. CorVel’s Texas Health Care Network program has a state required Annual Work plan that is overseen by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) to ensure all providers are properly being evaluated and credentialed on a continuous basis. All providers may be nominated to the network for consideration. The network’s Quality Improvement Program Committee (QIPC) will review the provider before executing a contract with the provider/group.


CorVel’s Texas HCN program has a state certified resolution process to review complaints within a timely fashion as required in the Texas Admin Code Chapter 1305.


All claims prior to the HCN effective date will need to get network approval before enrolling into the HCN.



EPLI

The limit of insurance applies to defense expenses as well as damages you must pay.


Acuity offers a wide range of limits to meet your needs. We offer limits from $10,000 to $1,000,000. Your agent can help you determine the amount that is best for you.


EmployerProtection.Net is a useful resource for employment-related policies and practices. The site provides suggested  workplace rules and prohibitions, sample employment applications and performance reviews, as well as web training modules to help you.


Once you've purchased employment practices coverage, you just need to log in to acuity.com, go to the customer care section, and click on EmployerProtection.Net. 



Proxy

The proxy notice informs you that as a policyholder at Acuity, you have a right to attend the annual meeting held in March in Sheboygan, WI. Since many policyholders choose not to attend this meeting, Acuity sends the proxy card for those who wish to appoint a proxy.


As a mutual insurance company, Acuity is owned by our policyholders, not shareholders like a stock company. Having visibility is one of the many benefits of choosing a mutual insurance company like Acuity. Being a mutual insurance company allows Acuity to focus on the long term, resulting in greater stability, more consistent pricing, and higher claims satisfaction.

 

As history demonstrates, Acuity’s leadership team is committed to:

  1. World-class claims service
  2. Strength and stability
  3. Growth with the heart of a regional
  4. Products and pricing stability
  5. Employee empowerment

 

Simply put, and most importantly, happy employees lead to happy customers.

 

To learn more about Acuity’s past performance, view our annual reports.


By signing and submitting your proxy card, you are appointing the CEO of Acuity, the President of Acuity, the Secretary of Acuity, or any of them, to vote on your behalf at Acuity’s annual member meeting.


At an annual member meeting, Acuity’s directors are elected, and any other matters that properly come before the members will be voted on as well. Your proxy submission enables the election of Acuity’s Board of Directors, which allows them to continue overseeing and guiding company operations. The Board of Directors at Acuity is a diverse group of leaders from a variety of industries. Their collective experiences and insights help guide Acuity’s long-term vision of stability and viability to pay future claims for our policyholders.


You are not required to submit your proxy, and there will be no impact on your policy if you choose not to. However, the opportunity to attend an annual meeting or submit a proxy is one of the benefits of choosing a mutual insurance company, and your vote is extremely important to us. Acuity receives more proxy votes from our policyholders than the industry, so while it is not required, we truly want ALL our members’ voices to be heard.


As a mutual insurance company, we are required to send our policyholders notification that they have a right to attend and vote at the annual meeting held each March.

 

If you have not submitted your proxy, you will receive two notices each year. Additional reminders are sent with installment bills. You can opt out of receiving the proxy notices in your installment bills by contacting Acuity at 800.242.7666 or email.


You can contact Acuity to find out if you have already submitted your proxy.

Call us at 800.242.7666 or email.


There are several ways you can change your proxy status after it’s been submitted:

  1. You can write to Secretary of Acuity stating that you wish to revoke your proxy.
  2. You may choose to attend an annual meeting in person, which will revoke your proxy.
  3. Your proxy will automatically expire 5 years from the date the proxy is received.