FAQs
Q: What sets Sunshine Insurance apart from the other insurance agents & brokers?
A: Since November 1994, Sunshine Insurance has consistently provided sound insurance solutions to both private and commercial clients. Sunshine Insurance is small enough that we know you by name, but big enough to provide all of the insurance products you may need in your lifetime. Sunshine Insurance has a team of qualified staff (locally and internationally qualified) who care about educating the customer. We want you to know what your policy covers and what it does not, so that you can make informed decisions. We are a company with a good legacy and we strongly believe in partnering with stable insurance companies that have the ability to pay in the event of a claim – after all, that is when insurance really proves its worth. Sunshine Insurance is also committed to being a good corporate citizen. Our work with Junkanoo groups, Junior Achievement, the Elmira College Scholarship and the Sunshine Insurance Race Weekend (SIRW) is our way of giving back to the wider Bahamian community.
Q: What types of insurance does Sunshine Insurance provide?
A: Sunshine Insurance offers the following insurance products: motor, home, commercial, aviation, health, life, taxi, jitney and marine.
Q: Why should I use an agent and broker rather than go directly to the insurance company?
A: By law in The Bahamas, general insurance cannot be purchased directly from the insurance company. Such purchases must take place through a licensed insurance agent or broker. The agent or broker plays an important role for you. When it comes to insurance, things aren’t always so simple. In fact, at times, it can be downright confusing. When you are a Sunshine Insurance customer, not only do you have someone in your corner who will educate you on the insurance products, but you also have an advocate who will put your interests above their own. There’s also added benefits. Rather than you calling around to various insurance companies to look for rates, we do the shopping for you. At times, we’re able to secure a better rate for you than you would have gotten on your own.
Q: What does Sunshine Insurance’s affiliation with Marsh mean for me?
A: It means a lot, actually. There’s a great sense of security that our clients feel knowing that Sunshine Insurance is the Bahamian correspondent for Marsh, a global insurance broking giant. Marsh is one of the world’s leading risk advisors and it doesn’t align itself with just anyone. Sunshine Insurance has to meet very specific standards in order to be in compliance and remain in good standing year-after-year. Our affiliation with them also allows us to draw on their international expertise and access specialized overseas insurance markets. Marsh helps Sunshine Insurance find some of the best insurance products and services for our local commercial clients and certain private clients.
Q: Do you offer payment plans?
A: Yes, we do! We offer flexible plans for most of our insurance products. Contact an agent today to discuss your options.
Q: How can I pay my bill?
A: We have several ways that you can pay your bill. You may pay over the counter at our Shirley Street and Baillou Hill Road offices between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Mondays to Fridays and on Saturday at our Shirley Street office between the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. We accept cash, credit cards and cheques. For your convenience, you may also pay online through FirstCaribbean, Scotiabank and RBC. Online payments require your Customer Code. Please contact an agent to confirm this code before making online payments.
Q: What happens if I’m late or miss a payment?
A: Unfortunately, a late or missed payment would result in your policy being cancelled for non-payment. You will not be covered. You also jeopardize chances of financing future premiums. It is important to pay installments on time and remain in contact with our Credit & Collections Officer.
Q: How do I check on the status of a claim?
A: The claim process is not handled by Sunshine Insurance (the broker). Sunshine Insurance will direct you to the insurance company (the insurer) that issues the policy. Claims professionals at the insurance company will investigate and settle the claim. Sunshine Insurance will work with you and the insurer throughout the claims process.
Q: How do I make a change to my existing policy?
A: We understand that things change and that might require amendments to your policy. Please visit our Shirley Street or Baillou Hill Road offices to make changes. Policy changes cannot be made over the phone.
Q: How do I cancel my policy?
A: We’re sorry to see you go, but if you have to cancel your policy, please visit us at one of our offices to sign off on the cancellation forms.
Q: Can I view my policy online?
A: Unfortunately, not at this time.
Q: Can I have multiple agents?
A: Absolutely. All Sunshine Insurance agents are trained to handle your questions and concerns.
Q: Who do I contact if I have questions about billing or payments?
A: All of Sunshine Insurance’s professional and knowledgeable agents are able to assist you with billing and payment queries.
Q: What do I do if I am involved in a car accident?
A: Firstly, stay calm. Secondly, call the police, even if the accident seems minor. Do not sign any documents unless it’s for the police or your insurance company. Limit your discussion about the accident. Contact one of our friendly agents at your earliest opportunity to report the incident and discuss options.
Q: Is VAT charged on all of my insurance products?
A: The simple answer is no. As of July 1, 2015 the Government of The Bahamas imposed a 7.5% value-added tax (VAT) on the insurance industry. The tax applies to all general insurance (i.e. all insurances, other than life insurance) transactions for new, renewal and endorsed business. The 7.5% tax will also apply to other insurance services, including, but not limited to finance fees, duplicate certificate fees and change vehicle/driver fees. VAT is charged in full at the policy’s inception/amendment. However, there is an exception: VAT does not apply to life insurance products at all.
