Melissa Barnickel - Women of Influence - I95 Business Magazine - Baltimore

Melissa Barnickel was interviewed by I95 Business for Women of Influence.

Read more to learn about Melissa's personal and professional background and how she helps clients and their trusted advisors to preserve their hard-earned assets by incorporating insurance with their financial plan.  

Excerpts from "Baygroup Insurance" on i95business.com

By: Linda Esterson

Background

As an independent broker, Barnickel compares carriers, doing the necessary “legwork” to shop for the best rates for clients. She is licensed in 12 states, including Maryland, Florida, Colorado, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, as well as Washington, D.C., and adds additional state licenses as needed for clients all over the country. She works directly with other brokers, financial planners, CPAs, attorneys and other trusted advisors to meet the needs of clients within their budgets to integrate long-term care insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and health insurance, all essential components of a comprehensive financial plan. She also provides product assistance to other agents and coordinates relations with insurance carriers.

Start the Conversation with Your Family

“It’s important to have the discussions with your spouse and family members about your preferences on issues like senior living, caregivers and how to pay for care,” she says. “It is much better to be prepared rather than working in a crisis mode".

Customizing Policies and Education

Barnickel’s extensive financial background allows her to provide clients with a customized policy, which blends well with their retirement income and resources. The planning process includes a commitment to educating clients before they make decisions, but it doesn’t end there. Barnickel provides continuing service after the purchase.