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Introduction
A mutual (cooperative)
insurance company is a "mutual endeavor" between the
company and its policyholders and the local community. We are
proud of our strong local ties and the important contributions
made by our company to the future growth of our community in the
form of taxes, investments and leadership.
What
is a Cooperative (Mutual)
Insurance Company?
A mutual insurance company
is "owned" by the policyholders, who are similiar to
stockholders in a corporation. Our policyholders elect the company's
board of directors, play a critical role in the decision-making
process and the setting of the company's future direction. A mutual
company is the essence of a cooperative enterprise.
Our company primarily provides policyholders with property and
liability insurance in three major areas: homes, businesses, and
farms, including livestock and farm equipment. This offers policyholders
protection against such dangers as fire, lightning, wind, hail,
theft, and for the claims of others against you (liability insurance).
Our local roots are strong, long-established and unique with a
special expertise in the areas of concern to the rural and farm
communities.
What Makes Us Special?
As a co-operative insurance
company we offer our policyholders a number of unequaled and special
features including and obvious one: a stake in the ownership of
the company.
Our policyholders receive prompt, personal and attentive claims
service from a nearby central office which often is located in
your hometown. In fact, it would not be extraordinary for you
to have your claim processed by individuals you already know personally.
We offer a variety of policies and coverages tailor-made to the
personal needs and situations of our policyholders. This is complemented
by a strong force of insurance agents who sell our products and
maintain a special relationship with our mutual company.
Our company's fountain, as well as it hopes and dreams, rests
in the local communities of New York State. We look forward to
continue serving as good neighbors and community leaders.
Other Associations and Memberships
Our mutual company is a member of the
New York Insurance Association, a trade association established
in 1882, which represents 80 mutual property/casualty insurance
companies spread across New York State. The more than 2,000,000
policyholders of the NYIA member companies represent 35% of the
premium dollars in New York State.
We are also members of the National Association of Mutual Insurance
Companies headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. This International
Association represents approximately 2,000 mutual insurance companies
and associations throughtout the world and complements many of
the legislative and educational functions offered through NYLA.
Underwriters Rating Board is a statistical and rate making
association that enables us to offer credible, reliable and competitive
rates to our members. They also aid us in designing acceptable
forms.
The Property Insurance Loss Register is a joint effort
by all companies to combat fraud in insurance, by placing in a
central clearinghouse, information on fraudulent acts experienced
by companies.
Serving your insurance needs for over one hundred and twenty five
years.
Founded May 3, 1877
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