Lawley Insurance

Author: kturner

  • Navigating Medicare Insurance Disruptions

    Navigating Medicare Insurance Disruptions

    If you qualify for Medicare insurance, you may have already noticed some major changes this year.

    Companies like Independent Health, Highmark, and Univera have adjusted their Medicare Advantage options, changing premiums and prescription drug coverage, and provider networks at local care centers and hospitals are noting significant changes for 2026.

    Alyssa McGovern, Director of Medicare, commented in the Buffalo News “there’s so many different factors at play this year” and called the situation unprecedented for disruptions and confusion.

    Despite all these changes, you still have plenty of choices. Review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), compare available plans, and check which providers are covered.

    Open enrollment lasts from October 15 to December 7. If your current plan is being discontinued, you can pick a new one up until December 31. And if you find your new plan doesn’t suit you, you’re allowed to switch again between January 1 and March 31.

    We’re here to help.

    Lawley Medicare Solutions is here to help advocate for clients and assist in navigating available options, including decisions between Medicare Advantage and Supplemental plans to address coverage gaps. Our team wants to ensure you have the time and guidance you need to fully understand your options and make any updates that best fit your needs.

    Whether you’re newly eligible for Medicare insurance or have been on a plan for years, now’s the time to review your options.

    For more information, visit our Medicare Insurance page or contact our team via phone at 716.551.7070 TTY-711 or email at medicare@lawleyinsurance.com. There is no obligation to you when you work with a member of our team.

    Lawley Medicare Solutions is a NON-GOVERNMENT ENTITY. We do not offer every plan available in your area and currently represent 8 organizations offering 60 products locally. For comprehensive information on all your options, visit Medicare.gov, call 1-800-MEDICARE, or reach out to your local State Health Insurance Program.

  • Understanding Pet Care and Its Impact on Your Health

    Understanding Pet Care and Its Impact on Your Health

    The American Pet Products Association reports that two-thirds (66%) of U.S. households own a pet. Dogs are the most popular, followed by cats and freshwater fish. Not only are pets a great companion, but they can boost an owner’s health and overall well-being. Humans and animals can have a true symbiotic relationship.

    Read below to learn more about proper pet ownership, how to stay healthy and safe around pets, and the link between pet health and personal well-being.

    Taking Care of Pets

    Pets bring new responsibilities for owners—and part of that is knowing how to take care of the animal. To ensure your pet’s optimal health and happiness, consider these pet care tips:

    • Select proper food. Dietary needs vary for pets based on the type of animal and age. For example, puppies require different food than senior dogs. Like humans, pets may also have special diets (e.g., gluten-free, grain-free and vegetarian) and nutritional needs. Improper feeding can lead to health issues (e.g., skin problems, malnutrition and obesity), and some human foods and plants are even toxic to animals. A vet can advise on a pet’s ideal diet.
    • Provide 24/7 access to water. Pets always need access to clean and fresh water to stay hydrated and healthy. Hydration can lead to organ failure and potentially death. If pets live in water, such as fish or turtles, cleaning aquariums and tanks regularly is important so the pets don’t get sick. A contaminated tank can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem and harm the pet.
    • Designate a safe, cozy shelter. Most pets need protection from extreme temperatures and weather conditions, so they shouldn’t be expected to live exclusively outdoors. Provide the pet with an appropriate environment to retreat to and feel safe. For example, cats may want a covered bed indoors.
    • Socialize them early on. Pets can benefit from socialization, so it can be advantageous to get them out of the house or have guests over. For dogs, it’s important to socialize puppies with different sights, sounds, places and people and reinforce positive experiences. Many owners overlook behavioral issues, so it’s critical to address any problems right away so they don’t worsen.
    • Exercise them regularly. Movement is important for your pet’s mental and physical health. Misbehavior is often a result of boredom when pets are left alone. A walk or exercise can be an opportunity to socialize with the pet further.
    • Build healthy habits. Maintaining routine wellness checkups, vaccinations and teeth cleanings is important. Some pets also require regular grooming to stay happy and healthy. Many owners often neglect dental health, but this could result in periodontal disease and lead to tooth loss or systemic diseases. Similarly, if nails grow too long, they could cause health and mobility issues.

    Many necessities that people need to survive and stay healthy are the same that animals need. A veterinarian can provide pet care guidance and recommendations.

    Staying Healthy Around Pets

    Everyday activities that are part of caring for your pet can spread germs from pets to people. Handling pet food and toys, cleaning cages and kissing a pet can pass germs from the pet to you. Keep in mind that pets can spread germs even if they look clean and healthy.

    The risk of getting a disease from a pet is low for more people, but some groups are more likely to get sick from the germs that pets spread. Those groups include young children, older adults, people with weakened immune systems and pregnant women.

    One of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs or diseases is to practice good hygiene. Hand-washing can help people stay healthy around pets and protect themselves against diseases. As such, hand-washing is important after playing with, feeding and cleaning up after a pet. Pets can contaminate surfaces in the home with germs, which means owners may pick up illnesses that way as well. It’s best to keep pets away from food and areas where food and beverages are prepared, served, consumed or stored. Proper hand hygiene is key to keeping animals and humans healthy.

    Staying Safe Around Pets

    Animals can feel stressed just like humans, so it’s important to understand the signs of stress in a pet and know when not to approach them. A common sign of chronic stress is reduced appetite, increased digestive problems or lethargy. Dogs may growl, whine, bark or pace when stressed out, and cats may excessively scratch, groom or vocalize. Pets can also sense an owner’s stress levels and take on any anxious feelings. If something seems off about a pet, it’s best not to dismiss it; address the triggers and take extra care of them.

    Furthermore, a pet can help young children learn about compassion and responsibility, but they should be supervised while interacting with animals to ensure safety for all. Remember to teach children to wash their hands immediately after playing with animals or touching pet belongings (e.g., food and water dishes, beds and cages). Children are often the victims of bites and scratches and are more likely to get ill from pets.

    Understanding the Link Between Pets and Well-being

    The unconditional love of a pet can do more than offer companionship. Consider these benefits of owning a pet:

    • Stress relief—Being in the physical presence of an animal can decrease the stress hormone cortisol, lowering your blood pressure and helping you feel less stressed.
    • Boosted immunity—Pets can help lower blood pressure and the risk of developing allergic reactions (e.g., asthma and eczema).
    • Routine management—Routines are good for humans and animals alike. The nudge to wake up and take care of a pet is good as it gets you going for the day and keeps the routine on track. Also, putting something or someone before you can provide a physical and mental boost.
    • Increased socialization—Pets become companions, so developing more connections and socializing with others is beneficial. Animals can help an owner be more social and reduce loneliness. Going out in public with a pet often leads to more human connections.
    • Active lifestyle—Adults need at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, and pet ownership can help people get moving. Movement not only supports physical health but also mental and emotional health. It can reduce anxiety, depression and negative moods. Physical activity is good for your mind and body—and your pet, too.

    While these benefits focus on pet ownership, service animals can offer the same advantages. Service animals are trained to provide support for people with certain disabilities or conditions. This type of animal companionship can help those people feel less alone, guide them through outings or accomplish critical tasks.

    Proper pet care is the core of responsible pet ownership. Pets depend on their owners for their health and well-being. It comes down to providing the basic necessities of life (e.g., food, water and shelter) and offering opportunities for exercise and socialization. In return, pet ownership can positively impact owners’ physical, mental and emotional wellness. Pets can provide owners with a sense of belonging, happiness and connection.

    Talk to a veterinarian if you have questions about a pet or how to select the right animal companion for you.

  • Understanding Vitamin D: Benefits, Sources, and Supplementation

    Understanding Vitamin D: Benefits, Sources, and Supplementation

    Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for calcium absorption and bone health. It may also improve resistance to certain diseases. As such, vitamin D supplementation is prevalent in the United States, with 20% of adults taking a dietary supplement containing this vitamin.

    Explores the importance of vitamin D and discusses vitamin D3 supplements.

    The Importance of Vitamin D
    The National Institute of Health recommends 400 international units (IU) for infants under 1 year old, 600 IU for people ages 1-70, and 800 IU for individuals aged 71 and older. Vitamin D deficiency symptoms may include bone pain, frequent illness and fatigue. A blood test is the only way to determine if someone has a vitamin D deficiency. At-home tests are available, but a health care professional can offer personalized guidance and support.

    While vitamin D is vital for building and maintaining healthy bones, it also regulates other cellular functions. Its inflammatory and antioxidant properties support immune health, cognitive health and muscle function. Research also supports that vitamin D may improve resistance to certain diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, high blood pressure, heart failure, stroke, influenza and COVID-19.

    Vitamin D Sources
    There are multiple forms of vitamin D, with D2 (ergocalciferol) and D3 (cholecalciferol) being the most important. The vitamin D2 supplement is plant-derived, whereas D3 typically comes from animals.

    There are several ways that your body can get more vitamin D, including the following:
    • Sunlight – Your skin can produce vitamin D when exposed to UVB rays. However, various factors, such as skin tone, age, geographical location, sunscreen and clothing—can impact the process.
    • Diet—Fatty fish, seafood and egg yolks are rich natural food sources of vitamin D. Mushrooms are the only vegetarian source of this nutrient. Because few foods naturally contain high vitamin D levels, the nutrient is often added to staple goods. Common vitamin D-fortified foods include milk, yogurt and cereals, so check the ingredient lists.
    • Supplements—Vitamin D dietary supplements come in various forms, including gummies, tablets, powders, drinks and energy bars.
    • Prescriptions—Some doctors may prescribe patients to take over-the-counter vitamin D supplements. Prescription-strength vitamin D contains a higher dose. Commonly prescribed medications are Drisdol and Calciferol.

    Vitamin D3 Supplements
    Vitamin D3 supplements can be particularly useful for individuals with limited sun exposure or dietary intake. Research suggests that D3 may be more effective at raising and maintaining overall vitamin D levels than D2 supplements. As such, doctors often recommend D3 to those who need vitamin D supplements.

    Vitamin D3 supplements are taken by mouth as directed by a doctor or pharmacist. Forms of these supplements include capsules, gummies, liquid products, powders, and dissolving or chewable tablets. Since vitamin D is fat-soluble, it’s best absorbed with a meal with some fat. Vitamin D usually has no side effects at average recommended doses, so it’s crucial to contact your doctor immediately if you experience anything unusual.
    It’s important to purchase high-quality supplements that have been independently tested. Nutritional supplements aren’t regulated in the United States, which can negatively impact supplement quality.

    While dietary supplements, including vitamin D3, can be beneficial, they can cause harm when used unnecessarily. For this reason, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that all consumers consult their doctor or pharmacist before taking supplements. It is possible to get too much vitamin D. When you overdose on vitamin D, calcium builds up in your blood. This condition, known as hypercalcemia, can cause nausea, vomiting, weakness, decreased appetite, constipation and frequent urination. Vitamin D toxicity also has the potential to progress to irregular heart rhythms, kidney stones and even kidney failure.

    For More Information
    Talk to a health care professional to learn more about vitamin D and other essential nutrients. They can check your body’s vitamin D levels and help you determine if dietary supplements are right for you.

  • Director Of Medicare, Alyssa McGovern, Appears on Daytime Buffalo

    Director Of Medicare, Alyssa McGovern, Appears on Daytime Buffalo

    Navigating Medicare insurance can feel overwhelming.

    Alyssa McGovern, Director of Medicare, recently appeared on Daytime Buffalo to help clarify what beneficiaries need to know.

    Alyssa highlighted that the Annual Election Period for Medicare Insurance, which runs from October 15th to December 7th, allows individuals to review current coverage, assess new options, and make necessary updates for the upcoming year.

    With several carriers adjusting benefits and plan options for 2026,
    this year’s AEP is especially important to evaluate your coverage and costs.

    Alyssa advised viewers to review their Annual Notice of Change, recently delivered by mail, which details whether plans are continuing, changing, or terminating. She noted that if your plan is terminating, you’ll need to actively choose a new one; otherwise, you’ll be reverted to original Medicare. If your current plan is ending, you’ll receive a notice and be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period from December 8th through February 28th to select a new plan. To help tailor the best plan for your needs, Alyssa recommends bringing a list of your doctors, prescriptions, and any upcoming procedures, such as surgeries, to your consultation.

    We’re here to help.

    Lawley Medicare Solutions is here to help advocate for clients and assist in navigating available options, including decisions between Medicare Advantage and Supplemental plans to address coverage gaps. Our team wants to ensure you have the time and guidance you need to fully understand your options and make any updates that best fit your needs.

    Whether you’re newly eligible for Medicare insurance or have been on a plan for years, now’s the time to review your options.

    For more information, visit our Medicare Insurance page or contact our team via phone at 716.551.7070 TTY-711 or email at medicare@lawleyinsurance.com. There is no obligation to you when you work with a member of our team.

    Lawley Medicare Solutions is a NON-GOVERNMENT ENTITY. We do not offer every plan available in your area and currently represent 8 organizations offering 60 products locally. For comprehensive information on all your options, visit Medicare.gov, call 1-800-MEDICARE, or reach out to your local State Health Insurance Program.

  • Lawley Welcomes New Hires – October 2025

    Lawley Welcomes New Hires – October 2025

    Lawley is pleased to welcome new team members who will contribute to providing tailored services to our clients throughout our network. The expansion of our Medicare Insurance, Employee Benefits,  Business Insurance, Personal Insurance, and Risk Management divisions strengthens our ability to deliver dedicated service across our footprint.

    Please join us in welcoming our newest additions to our team.

    Aimee Bick, Business Insurance Certificate Assistant | Manages certificate processing, reviews certificate requirements, and escalates any compliance gaps to the account manager. Aimee earned a bachelor’s degree from University at Buffalo.

    Andrea Boudreau, Business Insurance Assistant Account Manager | Andrea supports the business insurance department by validating audits, managing renewal processes, and identifying cross-sell and up-sell opportunities. She holds a Designated Home State (DHS) All Lines Adjuster License in Texas.

    Anna Shaffer, Business Insurance Account Manager | Serves the Real Estate team by overseeing renewals, preparing summaries, and coordinating the issuance of binders, certificates, policies, and proposals. Anna holds a Property & Casualty License.

    Aracely Arencibia, Business Insurance Account Manager | With 10+ years of experience, Aracely manages an established book of business which includes renewals, summaries, ordering and issuing binders, certificates, policies, and proposals to support the Select team. She holds a Property & Casualty license.

    Ben Verrico, Retirement Account Executive | Coordinates fund and plan design changes, conducts plan review meetings, and works with the Retirement Plan Advisors to make recommendations that are beneficial to each client’s needs. Ben holds FINRA Series 6, 63, & 65 licenses, a NYS Life, Accident, & Health License, and a Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) License.

    Candy Sweet, Business Insurance Account Technician | Candy underwrites products, processes financial documents, and identifies coverage gaps to ensure all documentation meets agency standards and supports smooth account servicing. She earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida.

    Cody Crandall, Receptionist | Provides administrative support by scanning and downloading insurance information, routing faxes, processing incoming and outgoing mail, and maintaining smooth communication with customers, carriers, and employees.

    Colleen Boyle, Business Insurance Assistant Account Manager | With 15+ years of experience, Colleen produces summaries, certificates, policies, and proposals within designated timelines while identifying cross-sell and up-sell opportunities.  She holds a Life, Accident & Health license and a Property & Casualty license.

    Gabrielle Sordetto, Billing Analyst | Gabrielle oversees Employee Benefits billing operations by performing audit procedures, processing transactions, and preparing monthly agency bills. She earned a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Fredonia.

    Karen Kennelly, Accounts Payable Specialist | Bringing 20+ years of experience, Karen manages expenses, prepares monthly reports, and processes vendor payments and agency checks.

    Keisha Peele, Business Insurance Account Manager | With 10+ years of experience, Keisha prepares summaries, oversees renewals processes, and coordinates the issuance of certificates, proposals, binders, and policies within designated timelines.  Keisha holds a Life, Accident & Health License and a Property & Casualty License in 5 states.

    Kristin Porter, Personal Insurance Account Manager | Manages an assigned book of business, handling renewals, endorsements, and insurance documents while delivering exceptional service to support the Personal Lines team. Kristin holds a NYS Property & Casualty license.

    Kyle Shirvani, Workers’ Compensation Claims Advocate | With 10+ years of experience, Kyle conducts claim reviews, monitors open claim activity, and assists with experience mod analysis to ensure proper handling. He holds a Property and Casualty License, a NY Independent Adjuster License, and a FL Workers’ Compensation General Lines License and is also a CT Casualty Adjuster and NH Workers’ Compensation Adjuster.

    Lindsey Yahn, Employee Benefits Account Executive | With 15+ years of experience, Lindsey works directly with the carriers on behalf of her clients and oversees the preparation of annual renewals, plan analyses, and reporting.  She earned a bachelor’s degree from Buffalo State University.

    Macuen Harper, Business Insurance Marketing Assistant | Supports the business marketing team by responding to internal placement requests, compiling loss summaries, preparing supplemental applications, and assisting with proposal development. Macuen earned a bachelor’s degree from Liberty University.

    Michelle Unger, Business Insurance Training Specialist | With 20+ years of experience, Michelle delivers workflow, procedure, and coverage training for staff and new hires, collaborates on sales and service initiatives, and maintains departmental communication resources. She earned a master’s degree from University at Buffalo and a bachelor’s degree from Buffalo State University.

    Paige Arndt, Retirement Account Associate | Prepares plan review materials for client meetings, submits paperwork to providers, and provides administrative support including document management and scheduling. Paige earned a bachelor’s degree from West Virginia University.

    Robert Etzel, Senior Financial Analyst | Robert coordinates budgeting, assists in payroll operations, and manages financial reports. He earned a master’s degree from the University at Buffalo.

    Summer Morin, Business Insurance Claims Consultant | With 15+ years of experience, Summer guides clients and third-party claimants through the claims process from the very first report, ensuring they receive attentive support and clear communication.

    Tabitha Tirado, Business Insurance Account Manager | Excels at building effective working relationships by providing a thorough hands-on approach and conducting consultative conversations. Tabitha earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida.  

    Theresa Holden, Claims Assistant | Serves the claims department by providing administrative support, responding to internal and external requests, and preparing insurance policies and reports. Theresa earned a bachelor’s degree from Buffalo State University.

    Thomas Fabiano, Business Insurance Marketing Assistant | Thomas works closely with sales advisors to process new business applications and review submissions for completion and accuracy. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Canisius University.

    Victoria Lindhorn, Business Insurance Assistant Account Manager | Serves the business insurance department by creating summaries, certificates, policies & proposals, and completing coverage reviews. Victoria holds a Property & Casualty License.

    William Lawley III, Business Development Representative | Supports insurance operations by collaborating with internal and external partners, maintaining accurate records, and completing rotational project-based assignments. William earned a bachelor’s degree from Loyola Chicago University.

    Looking to take your successful career to the next level? As a family-owned company, we provide the support, care, and resources for you to take your career to new heights.
    View our open careers page here or contact us today to learn more.

  • Top 50 Insurance Broker Expands with New Role

    Top 50 Insurance Broker Expands with New Role

    Alyssa McGovern joins Lawley in newly-created role of Director of Medicare

    Lawley is proud to announce the creation of the Director of Medicare position. Alyssa McGovern has been appointed to this newly established role.

    This strategic decision reflects Lawley’s dedication to expanding its Medicare Solutions division in response to increasing demand and evolving market conditions. It further promotes the growth of Lawley’s Medicare division throughout our service areas and builds upon the expansion into the Rochester, NY region, following the recent merger of ROC Insurance Services to the Lawley team.

    With 15+ years of experience in the insurance industry, McGovern will oversee operations for Lawley Medicare Solutions. She will lead and develop a team of Medicare insurance consultants and service consultants to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, deliver ongoing training, and foster ethical practices. Additionally, McGovern will collaborate across departments to drive lead generation, client retention, and cross-selling initiatives, supporting the agency’s overall growth.

    Prior to joining Lawley, McGovern held leadership roles at AAA Western and Central New York, including Medicare Sales Manager and Insurance Retention and Training Manager. She also served as a Customer Service Manager at a national insurance company, where she helped scale a team from just a few individuals to over 400 in under a year. Her ability to drive referral growth and exceed business targets ahead of schedule underscores her strategic insight and leadership strength.

    McGovern holds multiple professional designations, including Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) and Associate in Insurance Services (AIS). She holds a NYS Life, Accident & Health License and a NYS Property & Casualty License. She also earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester.

    “The creation of the Director of Medicare role comes at a pivotal time,” says Chuck Allesi, partner of Lawley. “As the Medicare insurance market continues to evolve, this position allows us to expand services to our clients throughout our footprint.”

    “Alyssa brings a client-first, consultative approach that aligns seamlessly with our team. We’re very excited to bring her on board to help continue the growth of this division,” says TJ Revelas, partner of Lawley.

  • Lawley expands Rochester presence by partnering with ROC Insurance Services

    Lawley expands Rochester presence by partnering with ROC Insurance Services

    Buffalo, NY, (October 15th, 2025) | Lawley, a family-owned, independent insurance brokerage, employee benefits, and wealth management firm, is proud to announce its merger with ROC Insurance Services.

    Effective September 1, 2025, this strategic partnership deepens Lawley’s roots in the Rochester region, adding a 19th location to its growing footprint.

    The merger is led by Lawley Principal Christopher D. Ross, TJ Revelas, Partner, and Leah Abram, MBA, PMP, Director of Mergers & Benefit Operations, in collaboration with ROC Insurance Services founders Rick and Lynda Grossmann. Together, they unite two like-minded teams passionate about delivering exceptional service and innovative solutions to their clients and communities.

    Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Rochester, NY, ROC Insurance Services has earned a strong reputation for excellence in Medicare and Individual Health insurance. Known for providing objective advice, simplified research, and customized plans, ROC Insurance Services has become a trusted name in the region. Its 13 dedicated team members will now join Lawley, which boasts over 600 associates nationwide.

    The timing of this merger is especially significant as Medicare insurance enters its busiest season. With ROC Insurance Services’ deep expertise and Lawley’s expanded resources, the newly combined Lawley ROC Insurance Services team is uniquely positioned to guide clients through understanding and enrolling in the best Medicare insurance plan that fits their needs.

    “We’re excited to join forces with Lawley and continue serving our clients with the same heart and dedication they’ve come to expect,” said Rick Grossmann, Co-Founder of ROC Insurance Services.

    “This addition reflects Lawley’s long-term vision of sustainable growth through meaningful partnerships that honor local expertise and relationships,” said Leah Abram, MBA, PMP, Director of Mergers & Benefit Operations.

    “ROC Insurance Services’ legacy of personalized care and community commitment aligns perfectly with our mission,” added Chris Ross, Lawley Principal. “We’re thrilled to welcome ROC’s talented team and deepen our commitment to the Rochester community.”

    Together, Lawley and ROC Insurance Services are entering this Medicare insurance season with renewed energy, expanded capabilities, and a shared dedication to helping individuals with innovative solutions.

  • Lawley expands footprint to Florida by partnering with Professional Insurance Services

    Lawley expands footprint to Florida by partnering with Professional Insurance Services

    Buffalo, NY, (October 1st, 2025) | Lawley, a family-owned, independent insurance brokerage, employee benefits, and wealth management firm, is thrilled to announce its expansion into Florida through a strategic partnership with JL Insurance, Professional Insurance Services, based in Tampa.

    This exciting move marks Lawley’s 18th location and first in the Sunshine State, further solidifying its growing national footprint.

    The partnership led by Lawley Principal Christopher D. Ross and Lawley Partner Stuart Scheff, alongside Founder and President of Professional Insurance Services, Jason Levy, brings together two like-minded teams passionate about delivering exceptional service and innovative insurance solutions.

    “Planting roots in Tampa is a bold step forward in our strategic growth journey,” added Ross. “We’re excited to continue to build strong, trusted relationships across the country.”

    Professional Insurance Services will operate under the Lawley name and be Lawley’s 18th location, it’s first in Florida. With 18 team members joining Lawley, the firm now boasts 600 associates across the country.

    Founded in 2004 and guided by the motto “Protecting Tomorrow, Today”, Professional Insurance Services has earned the trust of clients by designing smart insurance programs that blend traditional coverage with alternative risk financing. Now, as part of the Lawley family, they gain access to robust national resources, cutting-edge practice groups, and expanded expertise, without sacrificing their local independence.

    “Our team is energized to join a firm that shares our core values and brings national strength to our local mission,” says Levy. “Together, we’re unlocking new opportunities for our clients, our staff, and our communities.”

    Scheff, who merged his own agency with Lawley in 2008, added, “Joining Lawley was the best business decision of my career. It gave me access to more markets, enhanced client service, and fueled growth. I’m confident this move will be transformational for Jason and his team.”

    “Expanding into Tampa with such a well-respected partner allows us to elevate our offerings and serve even more communities with excellent customer service, something we pride ourselves upon,” adds Mike Lawley, Principal

    ABOUT PROFESSIONAL INSURANCE SERVICES
    Founded in 2004, Professional Insurance Services has assisted its clients with property and casualty insurance and personal insurance. Created with the motto of “Protecting Tomorrow, Today”, Professional Insurance Services consists of a dedicated team who works to design and execute specific programs that can incorporate traditional insurance coverages and alternative risk financing techniques.

  • Update on Flood Insurance Lapse

    Update on Flood Insurance Lapse

    Congress failed to act to fund the federal government prior to the September 30th midnight deadline, resulting in a government shutdown. Not only are federal workers impacted, including our military, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is also suspended. Here’s how this suspension impacts you.

    Please review these FAQs issued by FEMA, the agency that oversees the NFIP.  Hopefully, Congress will act quickly to restore the funding.  We will keep you informed as we learn more.  *Note:  Private Flood Insurance policies/carriers are not impacted by this lapse.*

    Implementation Guidance on Lapse in National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Authority

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How does the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP’s) lapse in authority to enter into
    new contracts for flood insurance affect me and how long will it last?
    After the NFIP expires, you will not be able to purchase or renew an NFIP flood policy.
    In addition, the ability to pay claims on an existing policy would be limited to available funds in the National Flood Insurance Fund and the Reserve Fund. FEMA does not know how long a NFIP lapse will last. Congressional action is required to authorize the NFIP.

    Has this lapse in Congressional authority for the NFIP ever happened before?
    Did Congress make the reauthorization retroactive before?
    Yes, there have been several lapses in authority for the NFIP in the past.
    In most of those cases, Congress reauthorized the NFIP retroactively.

    If I purchased flood insurance coverage as part of a mortgage loan closing
    that occurs prior to a lapse, will my policy be issued?
    Your insurance company will issue your policy, becoming effective on the date of your loan closing, so long as your insurance company receives your application and full amount due either:

    • Within 30 days from the closing, if the premium payment was made from an escrow account (lender’s check), title company, or settlement attorney.
    • Within 10 days from the closing, if the premium payment was not made from an escrow account (lender’s check), title company, or settlement attorney.

    If I purchased flood insurance coverage before a lapse in authority, but not in connection with a mortgage loan closing, will my policy be issued?
    Yes, your insurance company will issue the policy if you applied for coverage prior to a lapse AND your flood insurance company receives application and full amount due within 10 days from the application date.

    If your application was in a pending status prior to the lapse and required documents are received during the lapse period, your policy will be issued by the insurance company IF all documents received satisfy FEMA’s underwriting requirements and full amount due is received per the required timelines.

    My flood insurance policy is set to expire on the day after the lapse in authority. I received my renewal notice already from my insurance company and sent my payment to my insurance company before the lapse in authority. Will my insurance policy be renewed?
    Yes. As long as your insurance company sent the renewal notice before lapse in authority and the insurance company received your payment before the end of the 30-day renewal grace period or extension of time to pay the renewal premium, the company may renew your policy. However, NFIP insurers may not issue new renewal notices during a lapse in authority.

    I have a loan closing schedule after the lapse in authority and my lender told me to purchase flood insurance before my closing date. Will I be able to purchase a new flood insurance policy?
    Insurance companies may not issue new NFIP insurance policies for loans closing during a lapse of authority, unless the application was made prior to the lapse in authority AND full amount due is received within 10 days (if payment made by policyholder) or 30 days (if payment made through escrow, title company, etc.) of the closing date. FEMA does not prevent insurance companies from receiving and holding new applications and premium payments during a lapse, but insurance companies may not act upon those new applications during a lapse.

    Will my insurance company pay a claim for a loss that occurs during a lapse in authority?
    A lapse in authority will not affect the handling of a claim made against an NFIP flood insurance policy issued or renewed prior to a lapse. Your insurance company will adjust and pay your claim in accordance with the terms of your insurance policy. However, funding available to pay claims may be limited.

    What happens if my flood insurance company receives the premium for a new policy or an endorsement for added coverage during a lapse of authority and I suffer a flood loss before Congress reauthorizes the NFIP?
    If you make the application for a new policy or endorsement request adding coverage prior to a lapse in authority and your flood insurance company receives the application and full amount due within 10 days of the date of application, the policy or coverage increase will be effective on the applicable date, based on the NFIP waiting period rules.

    If you were to experience a claim during the lapse, the insurance company may process your claim based upon the new application or endorsement request received during the lapse as long as payment is received per the timeline noted above.

    My policy is up for renewal days before the lapse in authority. Was my policy renewed?
    If your renewal premium payment was received by your insurance company prior to or within the 30-day renewal grace period or extension of time to pay the renewal premium, your policy should be renewed. Check with your insurance agent or carrier to make certain your policy was renewed.

    How will I know when the NFIP has been reauthorized?
    FEMA will notify NFIP stakeholders so they can pass the information on to their customers.

    Hopefully, Congress will act quickly to restore the funding. We will keep you informed as we learn more.

  • Key Insights from Buffalo Business First’s HR Panel, Featuring Lawley’s Brian Murphy

    Key Insights from Buffalo Business First’s HR Panel, Featuring Lawley’s Brian Murphy

    Navigating today’s dynamic workplace requires thoughtful strategies, proactive management, and a commitment to employee wellbeing.

    Recently, our very own Brian Murphy, Partner, joined fellow experts Collin Gehl, and Lindsey Zajac in a panel led by Buffalo Business First.

    Together, they took a deep dive into rising healthcare costs, generational shifts, and evolving expectations for pay, benefits, and company culture.

    Read some key insights below and click here to read the full article. 

    Rising Costs & Health Plans

    Rising health insurance costs are a significant concern for small employers, especially those with fewer than 100 employees, with increases expected to continue into 2026. Managing these costs effectively requires strategic approaches that balance expense reduction with improving health outcomes.

    “What employers have to do is understand what their options are and determine what type of path they want to go down from a risk perspective and from an employee disruption perspective, because the costs are just escalating,” Murphy said. “That’s the future of managing these costs.”

    Generational Shift

    As baby boomers retire rapidly over the next five years, millennials and Generation Z will dominate the workforce, bringing new expectations and challenges for employers. These younger workers seek more support, flexibility, and a voice in their roles, while also requiring guidance on professional skills and realistic salary expectations.

    Pay & Benefits

    Younger workers today are confident and prioritize pay, benefits, and flexible work hours that reflect their perceived value, yet they require support in developing interpersonal skills and consistent leadership engagement. They expect to have a voice in the workplace, reflecting their upbringing, and understand that salary progression is tied to experience.

    Attracting Talent

    Effective hiring focuses on assessing intangible skills such as emotional intelligence and cultural fit, which are harder to teach than technical abilities. Employers observe candidates’ behaviors during the recruitment process to predict their future workplace conduct and alignment with company values. The main aspects to evaluate with a candidate are to assess intangible skills, observe candidate behavior, and evaluate overall cultural fit.

    Company Culture

    Company culture expresses the values and the mission of an organization. It determines the environment and the behaviors that are accepted or rejected. It can also influence the success of the business.

    Brian shared how here at Lawley our values of Relationship building, Respect and integrity, Passion, Accountability, Commitment to our community fostered an environment where employees feel connected both in-person and remotely. Efforts to maintain this culture include organizing enjoyable social events and forming a culture committee to address challenges posed by the shift to remote work during the pandemic, ensuring all staff members feel included regardless of location.

    “The world has changed, and so now we have events that fit different employees where they are,” Murphy said. “We have to work hard to make sure that we make them feel included,” which extends to remote workers as far away as Kansas and Wisconsin. “When you go to work you know we’re all in this together,”

     

    At Lawley, we’re here to be your strategic partner in assessing the benefits program that best fits the needs of your organization. From developing customized healthcare programs to helping you understand and execute compliance audits and claims management, our team of consultants can act as your Human Resources department, or as a partner to your current HR team. We have experts in your business category, so our team understands the nuances of how you do business, what your employees really need, and how to reduce risks and costs to your bottom line. Visit this page to learn more and get in touch with our team.