The BC Alliance for Arts + Culture has teamed up with Saskia Vermeulen (Southlands Financial Services) to bring our members access to a wide range of types of individual insurance. After living through a global pandemic for the last few years, we know all too well how difficult it can be to face health challenges, deal with the emotional and financial strain of losing a loved one, or unexpectedly losing an income. Having individual insurance can help you mitigate the financial stress of dealing with health challenges so you can focus on what matters – your and your family’s health.
Each person’s situation is unique and deserves individual consideration. Please reach out to Saskia; she is available as a resource to support you and your family.
The table below outlines a few common types of individual insurance, as well as when and how you might use them.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have group insurance through work. Do I need individual coverage?
Many group plans (including the BC Alliance for Arts + Culture plan) include life insurance and disability insurance. The coverage you have through work is great but may not be sufficient. For example, a general rule of thumb for life insurance suggests coverage should be ten times your annual earnings plus any outstanding mortgages/debts. This amount could be reduced by any assets that will be sold, bearing in mind that the timing may not be ideal for selling if markets are down. Additionally, if you change jobs, you will likely lose the insurance you hold through work. Individual coverage is recommended for most people irrespective of their work plan. It allows you to stay in control of your insurance and have coverage regardless of your employment status.
When should I get insurance?
The sooner, the better. The younger you are, the lower your premiums will be, and it is easier to qualify for insurance if you’re in better health. However, insurance is very flexible, so it is usually possible to find something that works regardless of your age and current health status.
What if I have a pre-existing condition or was previously turned down for insurance?
There are many different types of plans, so don’t count yourself out! Many insurance companies now have options for guaranteed issue coverage, meaning that if you haven’t qualified in the past or are worried about health concerns, you may still be able to qualify for insurance with limited to no medical disclosure.
How much does insurance cost?
There are many different types of insurance and many ways to structure a policy. The actual premium will depend on factors like the type of insurance, how much insurance you get, your demographic and health, the company you use, etc. An insurance broker can help you find a plan that works for you.
About Saskia Vermeulen and Southlands Financial
Saskia Vermeulen is a third-generation insurance broker specializing in employee benefits as well as health and life insurance. She completed her BA at the University of British Columbia. After a successful career in marketing, she moved into the insurance and financial services industry. In 2016, she launched her own practice, Southlands Financial. She is proud to provide high levels of service to her group and individual clients.
Saskia has high ethical standards and the needs of her clients are her top priority. By carefully researching and identifying financial goals and objectives she is able to help clients set up, implement, and review their personal financial plans on an ongoing basis. She is committed to continuing education and has earned her Certified Health Specialist (CHS) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designations.
Saskia is on the Advocis board for the Financial Advisors of Canada professional association in the Greater Vancouver chapter. She is an active member of a charity that raised money for women’s education. She is passionate about the arts and making sure that artists are afforded the same standards of employee benefits and health and life insurance that other industries are able to enjoy. Saskia has been working with the BC Alliance for Arts + Culture since 2016 and also manages BCAAC’s extended medical plan.
Individual Health + Life Benefits Inquiries
Saskia Vermeulen
Insurance Advisor
604 862 7891
saskia@southlandsfinancial.com
www.southlandsfinancial.com
