• Decide if you need permanent or term life insurance. Permanent policies will provide money to your family no matter when you die. Term policies will pay only if you die during a specific period of time.
• When you’re trying to decide between life insurance companies, ask family and friends for recommendations. You can also meet with an insurance agent to talk through your options.
• Ask for the outlines of several plans so you can compare the features of the various options you’re considering.
• Always answer the questions on your application truthfully.
• Once you select a plan, store the policy with your other important financial documents, but not in a safe deposit box. Upon death, boxes are sometimes sealed temporarily by the bank, which could delay your family’s access to the coverage.
• Review and update your policy from time to time, especially after major life events like marriages or children being born.

DETER - DETECT - DEFEND  against  IDENTITY THEFT

• Protect your social security number:
•   Don't carry your SS card with you
•   Don't write your SS number on checks
•  Give your SS number only when necessary - use other types of identifiers whenever possible.

• Treat your trash and mail carefully:         
• Shred charge receipts, copies of credit applications,  insurance forms, physician statements, checks and bank statements before discarding.
• Consider opting out of prescreened offers of credit in the mail by calling 1-888-567-8688        (NOTE: You will be asked to provide your Social Security number).
• Deposit outgoing mail containing personally identifying information in postal collection boxes or at your local post office, rather than in an unsecured mailbox.
• Promptly remove mail from your mailbox.
• If you are planning to be away from home contact the U. S. Postal Service at  1-800-275-8777 to place a vacation hold. 

• Be on guard using the internet:
•  For practical tips to help you be on guard against internet fraud, secure your computer and protect your personal information, go to: http://onguardonline.gov           

• Select intricate passwords:
•   Place passwords on your credit card, bank and phone accounts.
•   Don't use easily available information (i.e. mother's maiden name, birth date, last 4 of social security number).  Instead, for a strong password, use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.
•  Give your SS number only when necessary - use other types of identifiers whenever possible

• Verify a source before sharing information:
• Because identity thieves are clever and may pose as representatives of banks, internet service providers, etc., don't give out personal information on the phone, through the mail or over the internet unless you have initiated the contact.

• Safeguard your purse and wallet:
• Protect your purse and wallet at all times.  Don't carry your social security card, and carry only the identification cards, credit cards or debit cards that you will need when you go out.

• Store information in a secure location in your home.

• Gas Mileage Tips -- Find out how driving efficiently, keeping your car in good condition, and combining trips can help you save money.
• Traffic and Road Closures -- Get resources to keep you informed about road and traffic conditions.
•  Scenic Byways -- Find scenic drives that you might enjoy while traveling on the road.

The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass

•  Cost $80
  
•    Valid for 12 months from the month of purchase. Expires the last day of the month punched.
  
•     Includes two signature lines and any two individuals may sign the pass. Both are considered pass holders.
  
•     Admits pass holder and any accompanying passengers in a private non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee sites.
  
•     At per person fee sites, admits pass holder and up to three (3) persons age 16 and older. Children 15 and younger are admitted free of charge.
  
•     Photo identification may be required to verify ownership.
  
•     Passes are NON-REFUNDABLE, NON-TRANSFERABLE, and cannot be replaced if lost or stolen.
  
•     To plan your trip and determine if this pass is the right one for you, please contact the offices of the federal recreation sites where you plan to visit.

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Why the Price of Gas is Rising

Pasco County Property Appraiser Mike Wells will be speaking tonight, March 22nd, at the Beacon Square Civic Association meeting Thursday at 7:00 p.m.

Mr. Wells will discuss the  appraisal process, property values, legislation affecting those property values, among other topics.

The Beacon Square Civic Association is located at 3741 Bradford Drive, New Port Richey.  Heading south on U.S. 19, turn right onto Moog Road, and then turn right again on Bradford Drive. 

More information is available by calling the Association at 727-807-7007.

* Information provided by the Suncoast News / Pasco North edition.