Which Problem Do You Think Needs To Be Solved?

Let's assume for a moment that you had "purchase life insurance" on your list of "things to do in 2025" but you put it off and forgot about doing it. Now it's 2026 and, unfortunately, you are dead. There's no life insurance to pay out and your family (or business) is in financial trouble. Monthly bills need to be paid. Since you were either the main breadwinner, that lack of income is becoming consequential. 

Of course, there are other problems as well. There's the issue of your funeral cost and perhaps even medical bills that came with your demise. Assuming you went quickly, your family may be facing a hospital bill for the ER, but on the other hand, you could have been sick for months, racking up expenses until you meet your medical insurance "out-of-pocket" limits. 

Finally, if you are leaving behind children, their education costs could be at risk. Not to mention any other future "milestones" you may have planned, like paying for a daughter's wedding or helping your spouse start their "dream business". 

Of course, if you're reading this, it's not too late to get started. We make it easy for you in two ways. You can visit our site and get a quote* for yourself without an agent helping you, or you can schedule a short phone call and we'll run a quote for you. 

Let us help you mark one very important item off your 2026 "to do" list.

*Quotes are only estimates and rates are subject to underwriting. 

Chris Castanes is the president of Surf Financial Brokers, helping people find affordable life and disability insurance coverage. He's also is a professional speaker helping sales people be more productive and efficient and has spoken to professional and civic organizations throughout the Southeast. Please subscribe to this blog!

3 Reasons Why Self-Employed People Should Consider Critical Illness Insurance

Being your own boss has plenty of perks — freedom, flexibility, and control over your career. But it also comes with unique financial risks, especially when it comes to health. Without the safety net of employer-provided benefits, a major illness could threaten not only your wellbeing but also your livelihood. That’s why critical illness insurance is a smart move for self-employed professionals. Here are three reasons it deserves a spot in your financial plan.

1. Protect Your Income When You Can’t Work

As a self-employed individual, your ability to earn depends on your ability to work. A serious diagnosis like cancer or heart disease can suddenly put your business — and your income — on hold. Critical illness insurance provides a lump-sum payment if you’re diagnosed with a covered condition, giving you the financial breathing room to pay bills, maintain your business, and recover without draining your savings.

2. Keep Your Business Running During Recovery

Even short-term illness can stall self-employed work. The lump-sum benefit from critical illness insurance can help you keep operations afloat — whether that means paying a contractor to fulfill client work, covering rent for office space, or maintaining marketing efforts while you’re focused on recovery. It helps ensure your business survives even while you step back to heal.

3. Cover the Costs Health Insurance Doesn’t

Traditional health plans rarely cover all expenses. High deductibles, treatment-related travel, or home care costs can take a real toll, especially when income has stopped. Critical illness insurance fills the gaps by providing cash you can use for anything — medical bills, mortgage payments, or even personal expenses while you recover.

A Critical Illness policy can cover a list of "specified illnesses"* like cancer, heart attack, stroke, major organ transplants and other health events. We offer an online quotes system that lets you find a rate for you (or your family). You can even apply online if you like!

Critical Illness insurance can be an affordable way to cover deductibles and other expenses. If you have any questions about the coverage, reach out to us. 

*Policies differ in coverage. Please read the Outline of Coverage before applying.

Chris Castanes is the president of Surf Financial Brokers, helping people find affordable life and disability insurance coverage. He's also is a professional speaker helping sales people be more productive and efficient and has spoken to professional and civic organizations throughout the Southeast. Please subscribe to this blog!

The 11th Hour: Can You Still Get Insured Before 2026? (And Why You Must Try)

The clock is ticking. As December rushes to a close, you might be wondering if it's too late to secure a vital piece of your financial puzzle: life or disability insurance. The reality is that the new year often brings higher rates, especially if your birthday is just around the corner, and the complicated underwriting process requires time—time you are rapidly running out of. While the window isn't completely shut, but you must act as soon as you can, especially if you want to lock in your current age and health rating before the calendar flips to 2026.

Insurance isn't an instant purchase like a streaming subscription. When you apply for a comprehensive life or disability policy, you enter a process called underwriting. This involves reviewing your medical history, ordering third-party reports, and potentially scheduling a medical exam. Even in the best of times, this can take a few weeks. If you wait until the middle of December, your application will get stuck in the holiday backlog, virtually guaranteeing it won't be approved and in force until well into the new year. By starting now, you give our team the time needed to push your application through the final stages before year-end cutoffs.

Insurance rates are heavily influenced by your age. If your birthday falls early in the new year, waiting just a few weeks means you'll be rated at the older age, resulting in a permanent, higher premium for the life of the policy—a cost that can add up to thousands of dollars over 20 or 30 years. Furthermore, insurers frequently review and adjust their rates at the start of a new quarter or year. Locking in a policy today secures the current, potentially lower rates, safeguarding your family's protection against inevitable 2026 increases. 

Most importantly, consider the peace of mind you secure by purchasing insurance. The holiday season is a time for family, reflection, and planning for the future. Leaving your loved ones' financial security exposed is a risk no one should take, especially when protection is within reach. Life insurance is the tax-free safety net that replaces your income, ensuring the mortgage is paid and future dreams (like college) remain intact if you pass away. Disability insurance protects your income stream while you are living, covering monthly bills if an illness or injury prevents you from working. Don't let indecision leave your family vulnerable to a financial crisis in the new year.

The simple truth is this: if you want a policy in force before 2026 to lock in your age and avoid potential rate hikes, you need to start the application process right now. Even if the final policy isn't issued until January, initiating the paperwork in December secures your current eligibility and locks in your effective date. Don't gamble with your family's security or wait until the next birthday makes coverage more expensive. Take control of your financial future today.

Are you ready to beat the clock? Click here to start your free, no-obligation life insurance quote and application process before our year-end underwriting deadline! (For Disability Insurance, click here to schedule a short phone call).

Chris Castanes is the president of Surf Financial Brokers, helping people find affordable life and disability insurance coverage. He's also is a professional speaker helping sales people be more productive and efficient and has spoken to professional and civic organizations throughout the Southeast. Please subscribe to this blog!

Why Millennials Like Return Of Premium Term Life Insurance

Millennials have traditionally been wary of purchasing life insurance, mostly because they have student debt, mortgages and other debt. Another factor is that the vast majority of term life policies don't pay out death claims because the insured outlives the policy. (Depending on who you ask, only about 1-3% of term policies actually pay out).

With this in mind, a great solution for younger people is Return Of Premium (ROP) term life insurance. Unlike traditional term life policies, ROP life insurance refunds 100% of paid premiums at the end of the term if no claim is made — essentially, “life protection if you need it, cash back if you don’t”. For millennials wary of “wasting money” on insurance they might never use, this structure reframes the purchase as a low-risk investment rather than a sunk cost. 

As more millennials enter milestones such as marriage, homeownership, and starting families, the appeal of ROP term insurance grows. It allows them to plan for their family’s safety while viewing premiums as a form of deferred savings that can later be used for goals such as paying off a mortgage, funding a child’s education, or investing in retirement.

Millennials favor Return of Premium life insurance because it speaks to their desire for financial empowerment and dual-purpose value — protection today with guaranteed returns tomorrow. It’s a modern solution that transforms a traditional safety net into a confidence-building financial tool suited to their lifestyle and mindset.

If you have questions about ROP life insurance, visit our site and leave us a message OR schedule a short phone call. One of our agents will be happy to help you.

Chris Castanes is the president of Surf Financial Brokers, helping people find affordable life and disability insurance coverage. He's also is a professional speaker helping sales people be more productive and efficient and has spoken to professional and civic organizations throughout the Southeast. Please subscribe to this blog!

How To Get A Quick Price For Insurance Without An Agent

We can all agree that we live in a world of TV ads, social media posts and lots of other noise pertaining to most products, their benefits and other information. But the one thing that the majority of people want to know is the price of the product before they do a deep dive for the rest of the information. 

This is why we make it as easy as possible for you to get a price estimate* for most of our insurance products. No matter if you're looking for life insurance, cancer insurance, dental, vision or another product, you can visit our site and find out quickly by just entering some basic information. The whole process can literally take less than 10 minutes. 

You have probably seen the commercials for a life insurance brokerage that claims to get you a quote quickly. The ugly truth is that you won't get your rate quickly, because they sell your information to an agent who is purchasing their "leads". In other words, instead of getting your price, you'll have one or more agents begin calling you. That is not what you signed up for.

Just to be clear, if you get a quote from our site, we will contact you via email just to see if you have questions or concerns. And if you decide to purchase a policy we will need to get extra information to complete the application and for the subsequent underwriting process. 

If you are curious as to how much travel insurance or a hospital indemnity plan would cost you, get a premium estimate quickly from our site, without having to talk to an agent. And if you do need some help, drop us a note and one of our agents will contact you.

*Insurance rates given on our site are "estimates" and the final premium is subject to underwriting. 

Chris Castanes is the president of Surf Financial Brokers, helping people find affordable life and disability insurance coverage. He's also is a professional speaker helping sales people be more productive and efficient and has spoken to professional and civic organizations throughout the Southeast. Please subscribe to this blog!

An Easy Way To Determine How Much Disability Insurance You Need

Recently we have had clients (and prospective clients) ask questions about our Disability Insurance plans. Specifically, they have been asking how much coverage should they purchase. 

One of our carriers has developed a Disability Insurance worksheet that helps people determine how much will be needed. Generally, we advise that people use the MUG (mortgage, utilities, rent) to find the amount needed in the event that someone is sick or hurt and unable to work. For many of us, not being able to work does not stop the bills from coming.

We are offering the worksheet to you at no charge! Simply fill out the form for our newsletter (which is also FREE!) and your Disability Insurance worksheet will be in your inbox shortly thereafter. Take a few minutes to determine how much coverage you need and let us know if we can help you find a policy that fits into your budget. 

To get your copy, click here and we'll send your worksheet to you soon. If you don't see it, check your spam/junk file. And please let us know if we can be of assistance. 

Chris Castanes is the president of Surf Financial Brokers, helping people find affordable life and disability insurance coverage. He's also is a professional speaker helping sales people be more productive and efficient and has spoken to professional and civic organizations throughout the Southeast. Please subscribe to this blog!

3 Little Known Advantages Of A Cancer Insurance Plan

When most people think of cancer insurance, they think about paying for medical bills. But cancer insurance can offer much more than just coverage for hospital stays and treatments. Here are three lesser-known benefits that could make a significant difference for you and your loved ones:

1. Coverage for Non-Medical Expenses

Cancer treatment doesn’t just affect your health— it can disrupt your entire life. Many cancer insurance plans provide cash payouts that you can use for non-medical costs such as:

• Travel to treatment centers, sometimes far from home

• Lodging for both patients and accompanying family members during treatment away from home

• Everyday living expenses like rent, groceries, and childcare when your income is affected by your diagnosis

This flexibility allows you to focus on recovery, knowing that your policy can help with much more than doctor’s bills.

2. Lump-Sum Payouts with No Hospitalization Required

A little-known advantage is that many cancer insurance policies pay out a lump sum upon diagnosis—no hospitalization or long claim processes necessary. This cash benefit is often available immediately after your diagnosis and isn't restricted to medical spending. You could use it for travel, experimental treatments, or simply as a financial cushion while you’re unable to work. 

3. Income Replacement and “Waiver of Premium” Benefits

Facing cancer often means missing work and losing income. Some cancer insurance plans offer income replacement benefits—regular payments to help you manage monthly expenses if you’re unable to work. Additionally, certain policies provide a “waiver of premium” option, so you don’t have to continue paying your policy premiums after a diagnosis, keeping your coverage active without extra financial strain.

While often overlooked, these advantages can provide critical support during a challenging time, making cancer insurance a valuable supplement to traditional health coverage—especially for expenses that standard policies don’t touch.

Feel free to visit our site and run a rate for you or your family. You can even start an application online. And if you have questions, please drop a note. 

Chris Castanes is the president of Surf Financial Brokers, helping people find affordable life and disability insurance coverage. He's also is a professional speaker helping sales people be more productive and efficient and has spoken to professional and civic organizations throughout the Southeast. Please subscribe to this blog!

Surf Financial Brokers Now Offering UnitedHealthcare Ancillary Products

Surf Financial Brokers is thrilled to announce the addition of UnitedHealthcare ancillary products to our suite of offerings. This expansion allows us to deliver even greater value and flexibility to our clients, helping employers and individuals access a broader range of health and financial protection solutions.

What Are Ancillary Products?

Ancillary products*—also known as specialty benefits—go beyond traditional medical insurance. They include essential coverage such as:

• Dental

• Vision

• Life and Supplemental Life Insurance

• Supplemental Health Coverage (accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity)

These policies don't pay the doctor or hospital, but instead pay the policy holder. This way, the insured can use the money for deductibles, copays, loss of income or any other bills that need to be seen to.

Adding UnitedHealthcare’s ancillary products enables Surf Financial Brokers to support a whole-person approach to health and wellness. This integration helps identify and manage chronic conditions, increase engagement in preventive care, and provide holistic protection for life’s uncertainties. 

One of the best parts is that you can visit our site and compare plans, run quotes and apply online! It's really easy!

Whether you’re an employer looking to enhance your benefits package or an individual seeking comprehensive coverage, Surf Financial Brokers is ready to help you explore the new UnitedHealthcare ancillary product options. Contact us today to learn how these solutions can make a difference for you and your team.

*Not all products are available in all states and some policies may be subject to underwriting. 

Chris Castanes is the president of Surf Financial Brokers, helping people find affordable life and disability insurance coverage. He's also is a professional speaker helping sales people be more productive and efficient and has spoken to professional and civic organizations throughout the Southeast. Please subscribe to this blog!

Disability Insurance During Economic Uncertainty

In today's ever-changing economic landscape, protecting your income has never been more important. Disability insurance serves as a vital financial safety net, especially during periods of economic uncertainty. Here's why this often-overlooked insurance is so vital.

As difficult as it is to deal with job losses and reduced income, it can be even more challenging to cope with an unexpected disability. Disability insurance provides a steady income stream if you're unable to work due to illness or injury, helping cover essential expenses like housing, groceries and utilities. This income replacement allows you to focus on recovery without the added stress of financial instability.

During economic uncertainties, you may be tempted to dip into your savings or retirement funds to cover expenses. Disability insurance helps protect your savings by providing an alternative source of income. Preserving your savings is crucial for maintaining your long-term financial goals and stability.

Economic fluctuations often coincide with increasing healthcare costs. If you become disabled, these rising costs can also quickly deplete your finances. Disability insurance helps offset these expenses, ensuring you can afford necessary medical care without sacrificing your financial wellness.

According to the Social Security Administration, one in four adults will experience a disability before reaching retirement age. Having disability insurance in place provides peace of mind and financial protection.

With the rise of the gig economy and freelance work, many individuals lack traditional employer benefits. Individual disability insurance becomes even more critical for these workers, offering portable coverage that moves with them regardless of their employment status.

Remember, disability insurance is a crucial component of financial planning, particularly during times of economic uncertainty. It provides income protection, preserves savings, and offers peace of mind in an unpredictable world. As we navigate through economic challenges, having this financial safety net in place can make all the difference in maintaining stability and security for yourself and your loved ones.

Chris Castanes is the president of Surf Financial Brokers, helping people find affordable life and disability insurance coverage. He's also is a professional speaker helping sales people be more productive and efficient and has spoken to professional and civic organizations throughout the Southeast. Please subscribe to this blog!

Why Hospital Indemnity Insurance Is A Must For Self-Employed And Small Business Owners

Being your own boss comes with a unique set of rewards – freedom, flexibility, and the satisfaction of building something from the ground up. But it also comes with unique risks, especially when it comes to healthcare. For self-employed individuals and small business owners, a sudden hospital stay can wreak havoc on both personal finances and business operations. That's where hospital indemnity insurance steps in, offering a crucial safety net.

Unlike employees with employer-sponsored health insurance (and options for HRA's and company funded HSA's), self-employed individuals and small business owners often shoulder the full burden of healthcare costs. Even with a solid health insurance plan, unexpected hospital stays can lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles, copayments, and non-medical costs.

Here's why this is especially concerning:

• Lost Income: When you're running your own show, time off means lost income. A prolonged hospital stay can severely impact your ability to work and generate revenue.
• Business Disruption: For small business owners, a health crisis can disrupt operations, potentially impacting employees, clients, and overall business continuity.
• Financial Strain: The combination of medical bills and lost income can create a financial burden that's difficult to recover from.

Hospital Indemnity Insurance: Your Financial Buffer

Hospital indemnity insurance provides a fixed cash benefit for each day you're hospitalized. This benefit is paid directly to you, regardless of your other health insurance coverage. Here's how it can be a game-changer:

• Covers Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Use the cash benefit to pay deductibles, copayments, and other medical expenses not covered by your primary health insurance.
• Replaces Lost Income: The cash benefit can help offset lost income during your hospital stay, allowing you to focus on recovery without financial stress.
• Pays for Non-Medical Expenses: Use the money for things like childcare, transportation, or even hiring temporary help to keep your business running.

Why It's Ideal for Self-Employed and Small Business Owners:

• Flexibility: Hospital indemnity plans typically offer flexible benefit options, allowing you to choose a level of coverage that fits your needs and budget.
• Direct Payment: The cash benefit is paid directly to you, giving you the freedom to use it as you see fit.
• Supplement to Existing Coverage: It works alongside your existing health insurance, filling in the gaps and providing extra financial protection.
• Affordability: Compared to major medical insurance, hospital indemnity plans can be relatively affordable, making them accessible to those on a tight budget.

Investing in Your Well-being and Business Continuity

As a self-employed individual or small business owner, your health is directly tied to the health of your business. Hospital indemnity insurance is a smart investment that can protect you from the financial fallout of an unexpected hospital stay, ensuring you can focus on what matters most: your recovery and your business.

Chris Castanes is the president of Surf Financial Brokers, helping people find affordable life and disability insurance coverage. He's also is a professional speaker helping sales people be more productive and efficient and has spoken to professional and civic organizations throughout the Southeast. Please subscribe to this blog!