What Is a Personal Article Floater?

Were you gifted with something sparkly or sentimental this Holiday Season?

Here’s How to Protect Them All Year Long

The holiday season has a way of bringing magic into our homes — twinkling lights, family gatherings, and sometimes even a little extra sparkle under the tree. If you were blessed this holiday with a new piece of jewelry, a meaningful heirloom, or a unique art treasure, you’re probably still enjoying that warm glow that comes with receiving something truly special.

But once the excitement settles, there’s an important question many people overlook:

Is your new treasure properly protected?

For many households, the answer is not yet — and that’s where a Personal Article Floater (PAF) becomes invaluable.   https://www.insurance-financial.net/personal-insurance/

Why Your Standard Policy May Not Be Enough

Most homeowners and renters’ insurance policies include some coverage for personal belongings, but high‑value items like jewelry, watches, fine art, collectibles, and family heirlooms often fall under strict coverage limits. In many cases, the standard policy won’t come close to covering the full replacement cost if something happens.

Common limitations include:

  • Low dollar caps on jewelry or collectibles
  • Coverage only for certain types of loss
  • No protection for accidental loss or mysterious disappearance
  • Deductibles that reduce your payout

Imagine losing a diamond ring or having a cherished heirloom damaged — only to discover your policy covers just a fraction of its value. It’s a situation no one wants to face.

What Is a Personal Article Floater?

A Personal Article Floater (PAF) — sometimes called a scheduled personal property endorsement — is an add‑on to your insurance policy that provides expanded, item‑specific protection for your most valuable belongings.

With a PAF, you can insure items such as:

  • Engagement rings and fine jewelry
  • Watches
  • Art and sculptures
  • Antiques and heirlooms
  • Musical instruments
  • High‑end cameras or equipment
  • Collectibles

This coverage is designed to fill the gaps left by your standard policy, giving you peace of mind that your treasures are protected no matter what life brings.

Benefits of Adding a PAF

A Personal Article Floater offers several advantages that standard policies simply don’t provide:

  1. Higher Coverage Limits -You can ensure each item for its fully appraised value, ensuring you’re not left underinsured.
  2. Broader Protection– PAFs often cover losses that standard policies exclude — including accidental losses, mysterious disappearance, or damage.
  3. Worldwide Coverage– Your valuables are protected whether you’re at home, traveling, or anywhere in between.
  4. No Deductible Options– Many PAFs allow you to choose coverage with no deductible, meaning you receive the full insured value if a loss occurs.

Do You Need an Appraisal?

In most cases, yes — especially for jewelry, art, and antiques. An appraisal:

  • Establishes the item’s true value
  • Ensures accurate coverage
  • Helps streamline the claims process

While it may feel like an extra step, it’s a small effort that pays off significantly if you ever need to file a claim.

Start the New Year with Peace of Mind

The holidays are a time for joy, generosity, and creating memories. Protecting the treasures that come with those moments is one of the simplest ways to honor their meaning.

If you received something special this holiday — or if you’ve been meaning to insure items, you already own — now is the perfect time to review your coverage and consider adding a Personal Article Floater.

Your valuables hold both financial and sentimental value. A little preparation today ensures they remain protected for years to come.

Contact Connie Phillips Insurance  888-439-0479