Kalon Schmidt

The team here at Kalon Schmidt - State Farm is anticipating Spring! However, with the mild winter we are having here in the Pacific NW, there are concerns that we need to keep in mind. Be sure to review all of your needs and coverages as soon as possible to protect yourself should an unfortunate mishap occur. Call today to schedule a coverage review but in the meantime, here's something to ponder. The lack of rain and snow this winter can lead to several challenges that could affect Oregon's spring and summer. For example:

• Reduced Water Supply: The snowpack acts as a natural reservoir for water, and its decline means less water for fish, farmers, and other uses during the hot, dry summer months.

• Drought Stress: Forests may face more drought stress, increasing the risk of wildfires.

• Streamflow and Water Tables: Shorter snowmelt seasons result in reduced streamflow and lower water tables, which can affect communities and ecosystems.

• Wildfire Risk: Increased drought stress in forests can lead to more severe wildfire seasons.

• Flood Risks: More intense rain events and periods between precipitation events can increase flood risks in low-lying communities.

Adapting to these challenges requires thought, such as improving irrigation systems, anticipating change, and preserving natural features like wetlands to support ecosystems during droughts. Since that topic is now on your mind, during our review, we can talk about income protection and determine whether you are protected in the case of an unplanned event! To determine whether you are adequately protected, we can consider several factors:

• Coverage Amount:

  • Calculate how much your dependents would need to cover living expenses, debts (like a home payoff), education costs, and other financial obligations.

• Policy Types:

  • A. Covers you for a specific period (e.g., 10, 20, or 30 years). Generally more affordable.

  • B. Covers you for your entire life and may build cash value but tends to be more expensive.

• Policy Term:

  • Choose a term length that aligns with your financial responsibilities (e.g., until children are independent or your home is paid off).

• Exclusions and Riders:

  • Check for exclusions such as suicide within the first two years or death caused by risky activities.

  • Consider riders such as critical illness, or accidental death benefit for additional coverage.

• Affordability:

  • Assess how much you can afford to pay regularly, and whether that amount is fixed or increases over time.

I can help you review your current policy or guide you through what to look for when considering income protection insurance. Do you have an existing policy or specific concerns you want to address? Call us to set up a phone call or in person conversation. The sooner, the better! May you and yours have a very happy 2026!

At the Kalon Schmidt State Farm office, we are dedicated to providing our customers with insurance coverage to meet the unique needs of each customer. Located in Keizer, Oregon, we proudly serve the surrounding communities of Salem, Dallas, and beyond. Our office offers a wide range of insurance products, including Auto, Home, Renters, Life, Health, Disability, and Business Insurance. We also offer coverage for travel trailers, boats, motorcycles, ATVs, and motorhomes, ensuring that no matter your lifestyle or needs, we have you covered.

With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, I bring a deep understanding and commitment to helping families and individuals protect what matters most. Inspired by my father, a former State Farm agent, I began my journey with State Farm in 2006 and have since grown into the proud leader of this office. I am also a graduate of Oregon State University with a degree in Financial Services, which equips me with the knowledge to guide you through complex insurance decisions confidently.

Choosing to insure with our office means choosing personalized service, attention to detail, and a team dedicated to what is right for you. We take the time to listen, answer your questions, and help you find the right coverage at the right price. Whether you’re buying a new home, starting a business, or protecting your vehicle, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today for a quote and experience the difference of working with a dedicated, local insurance partner who genuinely cares about you and your community.

I can also help you with saving for college for your kids, saving for retirement, and if you own a business set up your mandatory retirement plan for your employees.