Frequently Asked Questions
General Insurance Questions
What does an independent insurance agency mean?
An independent insurance agency represents multiple insurance companies rather than just one. This allows us to compare coverage options and help you choose a policy that fits your needs, goals, and budget — instead of forcing you into a single company’s solution.
Why should I use an insurance agent instead of buying online?
Buying insurance online may seem convenient, but it often lacks guidance and advocacy. An agent helps you understand your coverage, avoid costly gaps, and stands with you before, during, and after a claim. Your insurance is only as good as your agent — and we take that promise seriously.
How are independent agents different from captive agents?
Captive agents represent only one insurance company. Independent agents represent many. That independence gives you more options, flexibility, and advocacy — especially when your needs change or a claim occurs.
Do insurance agents cost extra?
No. Using an insurance agent does not increase your premium. In many cases, we can help you find better value by matching coverage more accurately to your needs.
How often should I review my insurance coverage?
We recommend reviewing coverage at least once a year or whenever a major life change occurs — such as buying a home, adding a driver, starting a business, or retiring.
Claims & Advocacy Questions
What happens if I need to file a claim?
If you need to file a claim, our team stays actively involved. We help guide you through the process, explain next steps, assist with communication, and advocate on your behalf — so you’re not navigating it alone.
Do you help during the claims process?
Yes. We believe claims are where insurance truly matters. Our team advocates for you before, during, and after a claim to help ensure fair treatment and clear communication.
What happens after a claim is resolved?
After a claim, we review your coverage with you to make sure it still fits your needs and make adjustments if necessary — so you’re better prepared moving forward.
Auto Insurance Questions
How much auto insurance do I really need?
The right amount of auto insurance depends on your vehicle, driving habits, family situation, and assets. We help you understand coverage options and choose protection that makes sense for your situation.
Does auto insurance cover teen drivers?
Yes, but coverage should be reviewed carefully. Adding teen drivers often requires adjustments to limits and coverage types to ensure proper protection.
What’s the difference between liability and full coverage?
Liability covers damage you cause to others. Full coverage typically includes liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage — protecting both you and your vehicle.
Life Insurance Questions
How much life insurance do I need?
The right amount of life insurance depends on income, debt, family needs, and future goals. We help you determine coverage that protects the people who depend on you.
What’s the difference between term and permanent life insurance?
Term life covers a specific period of time. Permanent options, such as whole life or indexed universal life, provide lifelong coverage and may include additional benefits.
Can life insurance change as my life changes?
Yes. Life insurance should be reviewed and adjusted as your family, income, or goals evolve.
Long-Term Care & Retirement Planning Questions
What retirement options do you offer?
We help clients explore Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, Annuities, Indexed Universal Life (IUL), and long-term care solutions — always with education and clarity first.
How do I know which retirement option is right for me?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Our team explains each option, answers questions, and helps you weigh benefits and trade-offs based on your goals and comfort level.
Do you represent multiple companies?
Yes. As an independent agency, we represent many of the most respected companies in the industry, giving you flexibility and choice.
Umbrella Insurance Questions
What is umbrella insurance?
Umbrella insurance provides additional liability protection beyond your auto and home policies, helping protect your assets and future.
Who should consider umbrella coverage?
Homeowners, families, business owners, and individuals with significant assets or higher liability exposure often benefit from umbrella coverage.
Is umbrella insurance expensive?
Umbrella coverage is typically very affordable relative to the protection it provides. We help determine if it makes sense for you.
Medicare Insurance Questions
When should I start planning for Medicare?
It’s best to start planning a few months before you become eligible to ensure you understand timelines and options.
Do you help with Medicare enrollment?
Yes. We help explain your Medicare options, guide you through enrollment, and remain available as your healthcare needs change.
Will you still help me after I enroll?
Absolutely. We continue to review coverage and assist with questions or changes after enrollment.
Business Insurance Questions
What types of business insurance do you offer?
We help with liability, property, workers’ compensation, and other coverage tailored to your business’s risks and goals.
How often should business insurance be reviewed?
Business insurance should be reviewed annually or anytime your business grows, changes locations, adds employees, or expands services.
Do you help business owners during claims?
Yes. Our team stays involved during business claims so you can stay focused on running your business.
Working With Lew Griffin Insurance
Are you a local agency?
Yes. We are a family-owned, independent insurance agency serving the Columbus area for over 30 years.
How can I contact your team?
You can reach us by phone, text, or email — and we’re known for being easy to reach and quick to respond.
What makes Lew Griffin Insurance different?
We focus on relationships, clarity, and advocacy. We don’t just sell policies — we guide, support, and advocate for our clients before, during, and after claims.
How do I get started?
Simply reach out. We’ll listen, answer questions, and help you decide next steps — without pressure.
Call or text 614-475-0036 today to be connected with one of our knowledgable staff members