Questions, answered straight.

If yours isn't here, ask it — or call (763) 807-3523.

Working with us

Does an insurance quote cost anything?

No. Quotes are free and carry no obligation. You pay the carrier's filed rate whether you buy through an agent or directly — our advice doesn't add to your premium.

What states do you serve?

All of Arkansas and all of Minnesota. Gerald Burns is a licensed insurance agent in both states.

Which insurance carriers do you work with?

We quote with Geico, Progressive, Foremost, National General, Liberty Mutual, GUARD, Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies, and additional markets. Availability varies by state and line of business.

How fast can I get a quote?

Simple auto and home quotes can often be turned around the same business day. Commercial quotes depend on the trade and carrier — straightforward contractor GL can bind within a day or two.

What is an independent insurance agent?

An independent agent represents multiple insurance carriers rather than one brand, shops your risk across those markets, and gives you the comparison. One application, several quotes, one person to call afterward.

Contractors & small business

Do I need general liability insurance as a contractor?

If you work on other people's property, yes. Most general contractors, commercial jobs, and permit offices require proof of general liability before you can start work.

Is workers' compensation required in Arkansas and Minnesota?

Minnesota requires workers' compensation for most employers with employees. Arkansas generally requires it once you have three or more employees, with exceptions by industry. Sole proprietors and subs have options either way — ask us about your specific setup.

What is a certificate of insurance (COI) and how do I get one?

A COI is the one-page proof of coverage a GC, landlord, or client asks for. If you're our client, ask and we issue it — usually the same day.

What should I have ready to get a commercial quote?

Business name and entity type, what you do, where you operate, rough payroll and revenue, claims history, and any lease or contract insurance requirements. Don't have it all? Start with what you have.

Landlords & rental property

Can I insure a rental property under my homeowners policy?

No. Tenant-occupied property belongs on a dwelling fire / landlord policy. A homeowners policy on a rental is a common reason claims get denied.

My rental property is owned by an LLC. Does that change the insurance?

Yes — the policy must name the titleholder. If the LLC owns the property, the LLC goes on the policy. Getting this wrong complicates or jeopardizes claims.

Restaurants

Do restaurants need liquor liability insurance?

If you serve or sell alcohol, general liability alone won't cover alcohol-related claims. Liquor liability fills that gap, and many leases and licenses require it. Premium scales with alcohol sales.

Home & auto

What affects my auto insurance rate?

Driving record, vehicle, coverage limits, deductibles, location, and credit-based insurance scores where allowed. Because carriers weigh these differently, the same driver can see very different prices — which is why we shop several carriers at once.

Does bundling home and auto actually save money?

Usually yes — multi-policy discounts are real. But not always: sometimes splitting carriers wins. We quote it both ways and show you the math.

Can you quote my insurance if I'm just shopping my renewal?

Yes — send your current declarations page. If we can beat it, we'll show you. If your current deal is good, we'll tell you that too.

Claims

How do I file a claim?

Call us first if you're unsure — we'll tell you straight whether it's worth filing and route you to the carrier's claims line. You can also report directly to your carrier 24/7; the number is on your policy documents.