Consumer Tips

Find consumer tips on everything from credit to home safety to travelling on a budget and so much more!
Featured Post

Help to Customers Impacted by Wildfires in Colorado

MetLife Auto & Home’s claim organization stands ready to assist their customers impacted by the East Troublesome Fire in Grand County, Colorado.

Resources Available

MetLife’s National Catastrophe Response Team is ready to handle any incoming claims, and their claim personnel are prepared to:

  • Help customers secure shelter, as needed
  • Guide customers through temporary repairs
  • Issue advances for immediate expenses
  • Promptly compensate customers for any damage to property

MetLife Auto & Home urges residents to pay close attention to local authorities and evacuation orders. Important phone numbers, email addresses, and online resources are included below for customers. When disaster strikes, it is critical to contact MetLife as soon as possible and report the claim to the appropriate area.

Reporting Property Damage Losses
If you need to report property damage losses:

  • Phone: 800-854-6011
  • Fax: 866-743-1546
  • Email: MET_CAT@metlife.com

Catastrophe Van Service
Although MetLife's CAT Van is not deployed to minimize the spread of COVID-19 and to protect the safety of insureds and claims associates, they have emergency service providers engaged and have secured prioritized service for MetLife customers needing assistance.

Billing Accommodations
Updates on billing accommodations for impacted policyholders will be provided as they become available.

Tips for Staying Safe
These are other resources that can help you stay safe! Please share these links with your family and friends:


This important update was brought to you by Union Plus Auto and Home Insurance. MetLife Auto & Home® lets union members compare and save on home and auto insurance.

Call 855-666-5797 and mention your discount code: DJ7.

Get your personalized quotes today

Posted Date
Image
Disclaimer

MetLife Auto & Home is a brand of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and its affiliates, Warwick, RI.

© 2020 MetLife Auto & Home | 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886

Benefit Image
Benefit Subtext
Compare and save with multiple quotes from highly rated carriers.
Summary

Resources are available to MetLife Auto & Home customers who have been impacted by the East Troublesome Fire in Grand County, Colorado.

Topics
Author(s)
MetLife Auto & Home

How to Prepare for a Hurricane

Here are some ways you can prepare for a hurricane:

Know your neighborhood
Even far inland, flooding can occur in low-laying areas. Visit FloodSmart.gov to view flood maps and find out if you live in a mandatory evacuation zone. 

Plan your evacuation route
Your local emergency management office and American Red Cross are good sources for planning.

Stock up on supplies
Keep sandbags and plastic sheeting on hand. Be prepared to board up doors and windows, and secure or remove loose items outdoors. 

Stay on top of the news
Listen to local news outlets for evacuation orders, or check trusted social media sources, and list your city council's Facebook page Twitter feed. Act quickly to avoid traffic. 

Turn off your utilities
If you are in a hurricane surge zone, keep written instructions on how to turn off your home utilities in a central location. Gas, water, and electricity should be shut off before you evacuate. 

Make an emergency kit!
Your kit should include: 

  • A three-to-seven-day water supply (1 gallon per person per day)
  • Non-perishable food and cooking tools
  • A change of clothing, seasonal gear, and sturdy shoes
  • Blankets or sleeping bags
  • Emergency tools, including a NOAA weather radio, flashlight, extra batteries, and paper maps
  • A first-aid kit, including any prescription medication
  • An extra set of keys, cash, and a credit card
  • Important paperwork
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Phone charger
  • Recent family photo

Make sure your home and most valuable possessions are covered with home insurance from MetLife Auto & Home®. As a union member, you have access to home insurance with MetLife ChoiceSM allowing you to easily compare auto and home coverage from top carriers.

Call 855-666-5797 and mention your discount code: DJ7.

Get your free quotes

Posted Date
Image
Disclaimer

MetLife Auto & Home is a brand of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and its affiliates: Economy Fire & Casualty Company, Economy Premier Assurance Company, Economy Preferred Insurance Company, Metropolitan Casualty Insurance Company, Metropolitan Direct Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Metropolitan General Insurance Company, Metropolitan Group Property and Casualty Insurance Company, and Metropolitan Lloyds Insurance Company of Texas, all with administrative home offices in Warwick, RI. Coverage, rates, discounts, and policy features vary by state and product, and are available in most states to those who qualify. Met P&C®, MetCasSM, and MetGenSM are licensed in the state of Minnesota.

MetLife Choice is used by MetLife Auto & Home Insurance Agency, Inc. and other independent agencies and captive agents to provide consumers a broad choice of insurance providers. Coverage may be underwritten by carriers unaffiliated with MetLife Auto & Home through MetLife Auto & Home Insurance Agency, Inc., with its principal place of business at 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886, CA License #0D25399; AR License #100116171, TX License #15811. Each insurer operates independently and has sole financial responsibility for its own products. 

L0720006028[exp0723][All States][DC] © 2020 MetLife Services and Solutions, LLC.

Benefit Image
Benefit Subtext
Compare and save with multiple quotes from highly rated carriers.
Summary

Whether it's coastal flooding or wind damage, there are several ways you can stay safe during hurricane season! 

Topics
Author(s)
MetLife Auto & Home

Must-See Halloween Movies

 

Essential horror movies

Get ready for a scary night of slashers and seances! Here are our all-time favorite horror movies. These are definitely fit for a mature audience looking for a thrill on this spooky night.

A Nightmare on Elm Street Scream movies
Halloween Sleepy Hollow
Panic Room The Cabin in the Woods
Paranormal Activity The Conjuring
Poltergeist The Exorcist
Rosemary’s Baby The Texas Chainsaw Massacre

 

Kid-friendly Halloween movies

If you’re looking for Halloween movies for the kids (that aren’t too scary like the one’s above) here are some of the best children’s movies for Halloween.

Beetlejuice Harry Potter movies
Casper Hocus Pocus
Coraline Hotel Transylvania
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown
Goosebumps The Addams Family
Halloweentown Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride

 

You can also show off your costume and invite friends for a virtual movie party. Here are ways you can virtually celebrate with loved ones this Halloween. Also, it wouldn’t be a Halloween movie party without candy and treats! Check out our huge list of union-made Halloween treats and how to safely celebrate.

Posted Date
Image
Union Plus Must-See Halloween Movies
Summary

What better way to safely celebrate Halloween this year than with a scary movie marathon?! Put your family’s terror tolerance to the test with our favorite scary movies. Stock up on popcorn, turn off the lights, and get ready for a proper fright night.

Author(s)
Union Plus Content Team

Homeownership Support for Service Members

A dedicated team — just for you

Wells Fargo has a team of financial professionals who have been specially trained to meet your specific needs. Their understanding of military and veteran culture makes them uniquely qualified to help you achieve your short-term and long-term financial goals.

Programs and options that put you first 

  • VA Loans – Wells Fargo's VA loans for eligible military, veterans, and surviving spouses have features that fit your homeownership needs, including1:
    • Up to 100% financing may be available for qualified borrowers
    • The ability to use gifts or grants to help cover your down payment and closing costs
    • A maximum entitlement amount that may make you eligible for more than one VA loan
  • Permanent Change of Station (PCS) – Wells Fargo has a specialized relocation team that is familiar with PCS transfers and understands how to navigate Federal Travel Regulations (FTR).
  • Worldwide Military Banking – Offers valuable discounts and benefits plus convenient access to your checking account with services, tools, and resources to help you manage your finances even if you are deployed.
  • Hands on Banking® for Military – A free, fun financial education website tailored to the needs of active duty service members, veterans, and their families, ranging from the basics of banking to planning for retirement.

Helping you make a smooth transition 

Wells Fargo has a number of innovative programs and initiatives to assist you and your family through your transition from the military:

  • Career transition – Wells Fargo values the leadership, discipline, and service record of military members and veterans, employing more than 8,000 team members today who self-identify as veterans. They are committed to increasing our veteran team member population.
  • “Hiring Our Heroes’ Military Translator” tool – Helps veterans translate their military skills into job skills.
  • Educational support – Through renewable scholarships, we provide education funding to veterans and spouses of disabled veterans.
  • Disabled veteran support – Wells Fargo is a proud sponsor of No Barriers Warriors, a series of expeditions that provides a grueling, yet rewarding mental and physical challenge for disabled veterans who want to make a change in their lives.
  • Home awards for disabled veterans – Wells Fargo has donated, or is in the process of donating, more than 400 properties valued at more than $60 million to wounded warriors.

Learn more about Wells Fargo Home Mortgage

Posted Date
Image
Disclaimer

1. Customers must meet all eligibility requirements for the VA program. Please discuss with a home mortgage consultant to review current VA eligibility requirements.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage has a services agreement with Union Privilege in which Union Privilege receives a financial benefit for providing agreed-upon services. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage encourages you to shop around to ensure you receive the services and loan terms that fit your home financing needs. Home equity financing does not qualify for the benefits of this program.

Information is accurate as of date of distribution. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801 AP5205979.

Benefit Image
Benefit Subtext
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage can help with your home buying needs!
Summary

You’ve served our country — and Wells Fargo is committed to serving you. Our goal is to enable long-lasting, sustainable homeownership, provide financial education, and support you with career transition.

Topics
Author(s)
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Company

Creative, free + low cost fun to help when the whole family is stir-crazy

 

Online Cooking Lessons – Bon Appetite!

Sur la Table Online Classes
Sur la Table is more than just an awesome kitchen store — they also have one of the largest cooking class programs in the country.  Join expert chefs live from the comfort of your own kitchen for hands-on classes. You can book online classes for only $29 per household.

America’s Test Kitchen Online Lessons
America’s Test Kitchen is famous for helping at-home chefs cook smarter. With 320+ online classes led by trusted experts, you can learn how to master your all-time favorite recipes. Start with a free 3-week trial!

Milk Street Online Cooking Courses
Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street recorded cooking courses are now free! Learn new ways to approach food and how to put dinner on the table fast. Livestream classes are also available — most for under $30.

Virtual Tours and Events

Virtual Tours of Museums, Zoos and Theme Parks
Bring the aquarium and zoo to you! Broaden your horizons with this huge list of free virtual museums, zoos, and theme park virtual tours. Enjoy virtual attractions for all ages – from virtual rollercoaster rides at Walt Disney World to The Sistine Chapel at The Vatican Museum in Rome.

Virtual Smithsonian Events
The Smithsonian Institution offers free virtual classes and events, including tours of gardens, flower arranging lessons and writing hour. Get inspired to try something new!

10 Games to Play on Zoom
Break out the word games, Bingo, trivia and more for your next virtual game party! Get extra competitive and invite friends and family to join the fun. Check out the ways you can virtually connect with loved ones for game night.

Kids Virtual Learning Activities

PBS Kids Learning Resources
PBS Kids has free online resources that support your child’s education and are customized by age. You can also access an online book finder and child development tracker for free.

Whole Foods Kids Foundation – Kids Club
From building your own puppet to making “Eat the Rainbow Roll-Ups,” Whole Foods Kids Club has lots of online arts and crafts activities and creative recipes for your child to choose from.

Spark!Lab Invention Virtual Activities
Spark!Lab is a hands-on invention activity center at the Smithsonian Institute that has free at-home activities for young inventors.

Smithsonian's National Zoo Virtual Activities
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute offers free virtual resources for children in grades pre-K to 12. Your child can choose from interactive learning activities, games, live animal webcams like the giant and newborn baby panda cams, and more!

Posted Date
Image
Creative, free + low cost fun to help when the whole family is stir-crazy
Summary

Lots of families still have a full house this fall as we stay hunkered down to stop the further spread of coronavirus. If you have school-aged children, this means you’ve likely become part teacher, part short order cook, part referee, part entertainment coordinator, plus full-time parent! We get it. We’ve gathered some online activities to help give families more outlets for creativity and fun!

Author(s)
Union Plus Content Team
Featured Image

Help to Policyholders Impacted by Tropical Storm Sally


Tropical Storm Sally developed over the weekend and is in the Gulf of Mexico, and rapidly making its way Northwest. MetLife Auto & Home’s claim organization stands ready to assist their customers impacted by Tropical Storm Sally in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

Resources Available

MetLife’s National Catastrophe Response Team is ready to handle any incoming claims, and their claim personnel are prepared to:

  • Help customers secure shelter, as needed
  • Guide customers through temporary repairs
  • Issue advances for immediate expenses
  • Promptly compensate customers for any damage to property

MetLife Auto & Home urges residents to pay close attention to local authorities and evacuation orders. Important phone numbers, email addresses, and online resources are included below for policyholders. When disaster strikes, it is critical to contact MetLife as soon as possible and report the claim to the appropriate area.

Reporting Property Damage Losses

If you need to report property damage losses:

  • Phone: 800-854-6011
  • Fax: 866-743-1546
  • Email: MET_CAT@metlife.com

Filing a Flood Claim

If you need to file a flood claim:

Billing Accommodations

Updates on billing accommodations for impacted policyholders will be provided as they become available.

Tips for Staying Safe

These are other resources that can help you stay safe! Please share these links with your family and friends:


This important update was brought to you by Union Plus Auto and Home Insurance. MetLife Auto & Home® lets union members compare and save on home and auto insurance.

Call 855-666-5797 and mention your discount code: DJ7.

GET YOUR PERSONALIZED QUOTES TODAY

Posted Date
Image
Help to Policyholders Impacted by Tropical Storm Sally
Disclaimer

MetLife Auto & Home is a brand of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and its affiliates, Warwick, RI.

© 2020 MetLife Auto & Home | 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886

Benefit Image
Benefit Subtext
Compare and save with multiple quotes from highly rated carriers.
Summary

Resources are available to MetLife Auto & Home policyholders who have been impacted by Tropical Storm Sally in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

Topics
Author(s)
MetLife Auto & Home

From Renter to Owner: Buying Your First Home!

 

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Company has programs and services that may help you overcome common first-time homebuyer obstacles, such as a modest income, limited credit history, or limited funds for a down payment.

Buy a home with little to no money down 
Wells Fargo has several loan programs that provide flexible income qualifying guidelines, and low down payment and out-of-pocket costs:

  • yourFirst Mortgage® could help you become a homeowners with as little as 3% down payment on a conventional fixed-rate mortgage
  • FHA and VA loans — Most low down payment programs require mortgage insurance, which will increase your monthly payment and the cost of the loan. Talk to a consultant about loan amount, type of loan, and property type eligibility.

Get dedicated support 
Wells Fargo has dedicated home mortgage consultants, who knows your local area and can provide you with one-on-one guidance and help you understand how different loan programs work, so you can make informed decisions.

Enjoy convenient tools and resources
Learn about the financing process by watching educational videos and using shopping tools and calculators found on the Wells Fargo website. Plus, you can track your loan’s progress from a computer, smartphone, or tablet with yourLoanTracker℠.
 

Learn more about Wells Fargo Home Mortgage

Posted Date
Image
Looking to Buy a Home? Wells Fargo Home Mortgage can help
Disclaimer

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage has a services agreement with Union Privilege in which Union Privilege receives a financial benefit for providing agreed-upon services. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage encourages you to shop around to ensure you receive the services and loan terms that fit your home financing needs.

Home equity financing does not qualify for the benefits of this program.

Information is accurate as of date of distribution. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801 AP5186779.

Benefit Image
Benefit Subtext
Let Wells Fargo Home Mortgage help with your home buying needs!
Summary

Getting a new home or your first new home is exciting! You get to choose your own paint colors, get a pet and even grill with your neighbors. As a union member, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Company can help first-time homebuyers like you find home financing that supports your homeownership goals.

Topics
Author(s)
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Company

Tips to Finding the Right Car Insurance for You


Here are some tips to help you evaluate if your car insurance is the right fit — and to ensure you're getting the best deal possible.

Ask About Customization

  • You should look for an insurance company that understands how unique you are and your desire for individualized coverage.
  • From your driving habits to the style of your car, choose a provider whose benefits and discounts can be tailored to you.

Review Customer Service Ratings

  • Choose a company that provides you with the peace of mind knowing that you are cared for during the unexpected.
  • It's important you're with a highly-rated provider that can handle your claims with the expert service you need to protect your assets and help you quickly get back on the road.
  • Human connection, 24/7 claims processing, and common courtesy are all paramount.

Look for Features & Benefits That Make Life Easy

  • Shop for an insurance provider that provides easy and convenient coverage so you have one less thing to worry about.
  • Online claims processing can help you quickly gain access to documents you need, review your account, and directly connect with adjustors so you can start the repair and recovery process right away.
  • When choosing insurance providers, find out how long it would take to receive claim-settlement funds so you know what to expect from your coverage.
  • Look for a provider who offers online bill payment — or automatic deductions from your paycheck — so you can save time and ensure you never miss a payment.

MetLife Auto & Home® lets union members compare and save on home and auto insurance.

Call 855-666-5797 and mention your discount code: DJ7.

GET YOUR PERSONALIZED QUOTES TODAY

Posted Date
Image
find the right car insurance with MetLife Auto and Home
Disclaimer

MetLife Auto & Home is a brand of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and its affiliates, Warwick, RI.

© 2020 MetLife Auto & Home | 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886

Benefit
Benefit Image
Benefit Subtext
Compare and save with multiple quotes from highly rated carriers.
Summary

When shopping for new car insurance, there's a lot to consider. MetLife Auto & Home is here to help you find the right car insurance that meets your needs! 

Topics
Author(s)
MetLife Auto & Home

Help to Customers Impacted by Wildfires in California, Montana, Oregon and Washington


MetLife Auto & Home’s claim organization stands ready to assist their customers impacted by the recent wildfires in California, Montana, Oregon and Washington.

Resources Available

MetLife’s National Catastrophe Response Team is ready to handle any incoming claims, and their claim personnel are prepared to:

  • Help customers secure shelter, as needed.
  • Guide customers through temporary repairs.
  • Issue advances for immediate expenses using debit cards and electronic fund transfers.
  • Promptly compensate customers for any damage to property.

Report Property Damage Losses

If you need to report property damage losses:

  • Phone: 800-854-6011
  • Fax: 866-743-1546
  • Email: MET_CAT@metlife.com

Tips for Staying Safe

These are other resources that can help you stay safe! Please share these links with your family and friends:


This important update was brought to you by Union Plus Auto and Home Insurance. MetLife Auto & Home® lets union members compare and save on home and auto insurance.

Call 855-666-5797 and mention your discount code: DJ7.

GET YOUR PERSONALIZED QUOTES TODAY

Posted Date
Image
help to those who have been impacted by wildfires
Disclaimer

MetLife Auto & Home is a brand of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and its affiliates, Warwick, RI.

© 2020 MetLife Auto & Home | 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886

Benefit Image
Benefit Subtext
Compare and save with multiple quotes from highly rated carriers.
Summary

Resources are available to MetLife Auto & Home customers who have been impacted by the recent wildfires in California, Montana, Oregon and Washington.

Topics
Author(s)
MetLife Auto & Home

Legal Help for California and Oregon Wildfire Survivors

With the Disaster Relief Plan, MetLife Legal Plan attorneys are able to provide advice and consultations for many issues that these individuals may face, at no cost through 12/31/2020, such as:

  • Reviewing documents related to federal aid and insurance claims
  • Providing assistance with identity theft issues due to lost personal documents
  • Providing legal help for renters or home owners related to damaged property
  • Dealing with creditors and bill collectors

If you need assistance call the Customer Service Center at 1-800-821-6400.

Please note that you are with Union Plus and that you are interested in the document review and consultations services being offered as part of the Disaster Relief Plan. You may be asked to provide the last four digits of your Social Security Number.

Posted Date
Image
happy man talking to lawyer for help
Disclaimer

Group legal plans are provided by MetLife Legal Plans, Inc., Cleveland, OH. In certain states, group legal plans are provided through insurance coverage underwritten by Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and Affiliates, Warwick, RI. Please contact MetLife Legal Plans for complete details.

Benefit
Benefit Image
Benefit Subtext
Get quality legal advice at an affordable price
Summary

MetLife Legal Plans has activated its Disaster Relief Plan for union members who may be impacted by the wildfires in California and Oregon.

Topics
Author(s)
MetLife Legal Plans, Inc.