If you’re 55 or older and drive in Nevada, taking an approved defensive driving course could help lower your auto insurance premium and keep you abreast on the rules of the road.
The AARP Smart Driver™ Course is designed for older drivers and provides a refresher on safe driving, Nevada traffic laws, defensive driving techniques, and navigating today’s roads.
Even better, Nevada law provides a three-year auto insurance premium reduction for eligible drivers age 55+ who complete an approved traffic safety course. The actual discount varies by insurance company.
How Much Does the AARP Course Cost?AARP Smart Driver classroom courses in the Las Vegas area are typically:
$20 for AARP members
$25 for non-members

Where Can You Take the Course in Las Vegas?AARP offers classes throughout Las Vegas and Henderson, including local recreation and community centers. Dates and locations change, so the easiest option is to use AARP’s Smart Driver course locator to find an upcoming class near you. https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits/auto/driver-safety/
Don’t Forget to Send Us Your Certificate!Once you complete the course, send your certificate to Blue Sky Insurance so we can make sure any eligible discount is applied to your auto policy.
Already took the course? The Nevada insurance discount generally lasts three years, so check the date on your certificate—it may be time to renew!
Looking for ways to save on auto insurance in Las Vegas? Give the team at Blue Sky Insurance a call. We’re always happy to review your policy and make sure you’re receiving the discounts you qualify for.
Written by:
Amy Miller/Agency Owner
Blue Sky Insurance Group

A common misconception among Nevada business owners is that if someone is paid on a 1099, they are automatically considered an independent contractor.

For workers' compensation insurance, it isn't always that simple.

Insurance companies look at the actual working relationship - not just how the person is paid. Some of the questions that may matter include:

• Who controls when and how the work is performed?
• Does the worker use their own equipment?
• Do they work for other businesses?
• Is the work part of the normal operations of the company?
• Does the worker carry their own workers' compensation insurance?

This becomes particularly important at the end of the policy year when the insurance company performs its workers' compensation audit.

A Las Vegas business may begin the year assuming certain workers are independent contractors, only to have the insurance company include some of those payments as payroll during the audit. That can result in a significant additional premium.
The important takeaway: issuing someone a 1099 doesn't necessarily settle the workers' compensation question.

If your Nevada business regularly uses subcontractors or independent contractors, it is worth discussing the arrangement with your insurance agent before the audit rather than after you receive an unexpected bill.

Blue Sky Insurance works with businesses throughout Las Vegas and Nevada on workers' compensation insurance and audit questions.
​
Written By:
Stephen Miller/Agency Owner
Blue Sky Insurance Group

If you're on Medicare in Las Vegas, your mailbox is probably starting to look a little… crowded.
Medicare advertisements. Postcards. Flyers. Letters marked “IMPORTANT.” More postcards. And probably a few envelopes featuring very happy-looking retirees walking on a beach. 😄
It's tempting to toss the whole pile into the recycling bin.
But there's one piece of Medicare mail you definitely want to keep: your Annual Notice of Change, or ANOC.
What Is a Medicare ANOC?
If you're enrolled in a Medicare Advantage or Medicare prescription drug plan, your plan sends you an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) each fall.
And unlike most of the Medicare mail filling your mailbox, this one is actually about the Medicare plan you currently have. And it's important because your ANOC explains what is changing with your coverage for the upcoming year.
Think of it as your Medicare plan saying:
“Hey… before you automatically keep me for another year, there are a few things you should know.”
And those “few things” can be pretty important! Look for changes to copay's, deductibles and ancillary benefits like dental coverage.

Your Medicare Plan Can Change Every Year
One of the most common things we hear from our Las Vegas Medicare clients is:
“I like my plan, so I'm just going to keep it.” And you absolutely may decide to keep it—but let's make sure you still like the new version of it first!
Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans can make changes from year to year. Your ANOC can alert you to changes involving:

• Monthly premiums
• Doctor and specialist copays
• Hospital costs
• Prescription drug coverage and costs
• Maximum out-of-pocket limits
• Dental, vision, hearing and other additional benefits

A Medicare plan that worked beautifully for you this year may still be a great fit next year. Or a few changes could mean it's worth comparing your other Medicare options in Las Vegas. That's exactly why an annual Medicare review is so important.

Pay Special Attention to Your Prescriptions.
This is a big one. The annual out of pocket maximum for prescription is going up from $2,100 in 2026 to $2,400 in 2027.  Once a member reaches the $2,400 threshold, they enter the catastrophic phase and have $0 cost sharing for covered Part D drugs for the rest of the calendar year.

Medicare Annual Enrollment in Las Vegas Is Almost Here
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15 through December 7 each year. This is your opportunity to review your Medicare Advantage or prescription drug coverage and determine whether your current plan still fits your needs for the upcoming year.

At Blue Sky Insurance, we help Medicare members throughout Las Vegas and Southern Nevada review their coverage, compare available Medicare options and understand what's changing—without making Medicare more complicated than it needs to be.

Ready to Start Your Las Vegas Medicare Review?
You don't have to wait until October 15 to start getting organized. Start your Medicare review with Blue Sky Insurance here: 
https://www.sunfirematrix.com/app/blazesync/medicareadvocates/17929301/2025/#/blazesync/launch
You can enter your  providers and prescriptions ahead of time so we'll have the information needed to help review your Medicare options for 2027. You can even schedule a phone, zoom or in office appointment here: calendly.com/amyblueskyinsurance

Whether you're happy with your current Medicare plan or wondering if there's a better fit, an annual review can help you make an informed decision.
So when that ANOC arrives…Open it. Read it. Keep it.

And then you have our permission to recycle the other 47 Medicare postcards that showed up this week. 😉

Written by:
Amy Miller
Blue Sky Insurance/Agency Owner

Your car might think it's just running to the grocery store. But if it's spending evenings delivering tacos, chauffeuring passengers, or hauling your work gear across town, it may have a second job—and your insurance company should know about it.
The truth is, personal auto insurance isn't always designed for business use. If you're earning money with your vehicle, your coverage may not protect you the way you think it does.
Is Your Car Working Overtime?
If you use your personal vehicle to:

• Deliver DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Grubhub orders
• Drive for Uber or Lyft
• Transport clients throughout the day
• Transport tools or equipment for work
• Make deliveries for your business

...your personal auto policy may have coverage limitations.
Wait… Doesn't Uber Cover Me?
Sometimes. But not always.
Rideshare and delivery companies often provide insurance during certain parts of a trip, but there can be coverage gaps depending on whether you're waiting for a ride request, driving to a pickup, or completing a delivery. That's why it's important to understand where their coverage ends—and where yours begins.
Don't Let a Side Hustle Become a Major Headache
Whether you're delivering dinner, driving passengers, or using your vehicle to grow your business, the last thing you want is to discover you weren't properly insured after an accident.
A quick policy review can help determine if you need rideshare coverage, a business-use endorsement, or another coverage option that fits how you actually use your vehicle.
Because making extra money is great, but paying for an uncovered claim? Not so much.
Written by:
Amy Miller
Blue Sky Insurance/Agency Owner

Shopping for Medicare can sometimes feel like ordering coffee. Suddenly there are dozens of options, unfamiliar terms, and everyone seems convinced their choice is the "right" one.
When it comes to Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and Medicare Advantage plans, the truth is simple: neither is better for everyone. The best choice depends on your health, budget, and lifestyle.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap): More Freedom, Fewer Surprises
Think of a Medicare Supplement plan as the "predictable" option. It works alongside Original Medicare to help pay many of the costs that Medicare doesn't cover. These plans do have a monthly premium. 
A Medicare Supplement plan may be a good fit if you:

• Like seeing providers nationwide who accept Medicare
• Travel frequently or split time between states
• Prefer more predictable out-of-pocket healthcare costs

Medicare Advantage: Bundled Convenience
A Medicare Advantage plan combines your Medicare benefits into one plan and often includes extras like prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, hearing, and fitness benefits. These plans have a very low to no monthly cost. 
A Medicare Advantage plan may be a good fit if you:

• Want an all-in-one plan that is little to no extra cost
• Don't mind using a provider network
• Like having extra benefits beyond Original Medicare

So... Which One Is Better?
Here's the secret: the best Medicare plan is the one that fits your needs—not your neighbor's.
The plan that worked perfectly last year may not be the best choice this year, which is why it's smart to review your options during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period.
A licensed Medicare advisor can help you compare Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage plans, explain the pros and cons of each, and help you choose coverage that fits your healthcare needs and your budget.
Because when it comes to Medicare, the goal isn't picking the "best" plan...It's picking the best plan for you.
Written by:
Amy Miller
Blue Sky Insurance/Agency Owner

Whether you're starting a new business, renewing a professional license, or bidding on a project, chances are you'll need a surety bond. Many industries require bonds before you can legally operate or secure contracts, and having the right bond helps protect your customers and the public. Surety bonds are a financial guarantee that the bonded individual or business will comply with applicable laws, regulations, or contractual obligations.
Common Types of Surety Bonds
Some of the most frequently requested bonds include:

• Contractor License Bonds – Often required to obtain or renew a contractor's license.
• Notary Bonds – Required for notaries public in many states.
• Auto Dealer Bonds – Required for vehicle dealerships to become licensed.
• Probate and Court Bonds – Commonly needed during estate administration or legal proceedings.
• Performance and Payment Bonds – Frequently required for construction projects and government contracts.

Find and Purchase Your Bond Online
Not sure which bond you need? We've made the process simple. Visit our online bond portal to search for the bond required for your profession or business, receive a quote, and in many cases purchase your bond in just minutes.
Start your bond search today:
https://blueskylv.propeller.insure/axelerator-public/
Whether you're a contractor, notary, business owner, or professional needing a license bond, we're here to help make the bonding process fast and hassle-free.
Written by:
Amy Miller
Blue Sky Insurance/Agency Owner

Most homeowners know their insurance protects their home from fire, theft, and storms—but what about cybercrime? A cyber coverage endorsement on your homeowners insurance policy can provide valuable protection against today's growing digital threats.
What Does Cyber Coverage Include?Depending on your insurance carrier, a homeowners cyber insurance endorsement may help cover:

• Identity theft recovery expenses
• Cyber extortion and ransomware attacks
• Online fraud and financial scams
• Data recovery after a cyberattack
• Legal expenses related to cyber incidents

These endorsements are designed to help you recover both financially and emotionally after a cyber event that standard homeowners insurance may not cover.
Is Cyber Coverage Worth It?As more of our personal and financial lives move online, cyber risks continue to grow. Adding cyber coverage to your homeowners policy is often an affordable way to gain peace of mind and protect yourself from costly digital threats.
If you're unsure whether your current policy includes cyber protection, contact your insurance agent to review your coverage options. A small endorsement today could save you thousands tomorrow.

Written by: 
Amy Miller
Blue Sky Insurance/Agency Owner

For years, Medicare beneficiaries seeking GLP-1 medications for weight loss faced a major challenge: Medicare generally did not cover these medications when prescribed solely for obesity. That is changing with the new Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program.

Beginning July 1, 2026, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is launching the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge, a temporary demonstration program that gives eligible Medicare beneficiaries access to certain GLP-1 weight-loss medications at a significantly reduced cost. The program runs through December 31, 2027.

Unlike traditional Medicare Part D coverage, the GLP-1 Bridge operates through a separate CMS-managed system. This means Medicare drug plans are not responsible for approving or paying for these medications under the program. Eligible beneficiaries will pay a flat copay of approximately $50 per month for covered GLP-1 medications.

Which GLP-1 Drugs Are Covered Under the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge?
1.Wegovy®

• Injectable formulations
• Oral formulations (where available)

2. Zepbound®

• KwikPen formulation only

3. Foundayo® (orforglipron)

• All approved formulations

It's important to note that Ozempic® and Mounjaro® are not included in the Bridge Program because they are primarily approved for diabetes treatment rather than weight management.

To qualify for the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program, beneficiaries must:
1. Be enrolled in Medicare Part D either through a standalone Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) or a Medicare Advantage Plan with Drug Coverage.
2. Meet BMI and/or Health Criteria

How Do I Get GLP-1 Medications Through Medicare?
1. Talk With Your Doctor to review your heath goals and eligibility.
2. Provider submits Prior Authorization to the CMS Bridge Program process, rather than your Medicare Part D Plan, if you qualify
3. Receive Approval and Prescription is sent to pharmacy for you to pick up after $50 copay is paid!

If you believe you may qualify, the best next step is to speak with your physician and review your Medicare prescription drug coverage before the program launches. Preparing your medical records and understanding the eligibility requirements now can help streamline the approval process once applications open.
​
Written by:
Amy Miller
Blue Sky Insurance/Agency Owner

Planning a summer getaway? Before you hit the road in a rental car, make sure you understand your insurance coverage. Many personal auto insurance policies may extend coverage to rental vehicles, but protection can vary based on your policy, destination, and rental type.
Here’s what to know before traveling:
🚗 Rental Car Coverage May Include:
• Collision & comprehensive protection
• Liability coverage
• Medical payments coverage
• Theft protection
💳 Credit Card Benefits
Some credit cards offer rental car coverage or even roadside assistance, if you use the card to book the vehicle. However, many only provide secondary coverage and may have exclusions.
🌎 Traveling Internationally?
Your auto insurance may not apply outside the U.S. Countries like Mexico often require separate insurance policies.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Assuming you’re fully covered
• Declining physical damage coverage without checking your policy
• Renting luxury or specialty vehicles not covered by insurance
• Renting a car through a peer to peer company like Turo, without checking your policy
• Forgetting to document existing vehicle damage
Before your summer road trip, review your policy and understand your deductible, liability limits, and rental car protection options.
At Blue Sky Insurance, we help drivers stay protected wherever summer takes them. Contact us today for a quick policy review and travel coverage check! 🚘☀️
Written by:
Amy Miller
Blue Sky Insurance/Agency Owner

If your teenager is ready to earn their Nevada learner’s permit, you’re not alone. Between DMV appointments, required documents, online classes, and practice tests, the process can feel overwhelming at first. Let’s break it down.

What Age Can Teens Get a Permit in Nevada?
In Nevada, teens can apply for a learner’s permit at 15½ years old.
Best resource is the DMV website which provides documents required, practice tests, the handbook for new drivers and a link to make an appointment.
https://dmv.nv.gov/dlipteens.htm
 
Get Ready for the Permit Test: Parents can help by encouraging practice tests and reviewing the handbook together. They will need to know:

• Road signs
• Traffic laws
• Safe driving practices
• Nevada-specific driving rules

• Right-of-way rules
• School zone laws
• Parking regulations
• DUI and distracted driving laws

Feel ready to get their permit? Proceed to Next Step- documents, documents, documents!
One of the biggest reasons families get delayed at the DMV is missing or outdated paperwork. Here’s what your teen will typically need when applying for a Nevada permit:
1. Proof of Identity:

• Certified birth certificate or U.S. passport

2. Proof of Nevada Residency:

• Utility bills, Bank statements, Lease agreements

3. Proof of Good Attendance
4. Application for Driving Privileges or ID Card (DMV 002)
5. Minor Affidavit & Information Sheet
#3-5 can be found here: https://dmv.nv.gov/dlipteens.htm
Now you’re ready to make your appointment at the DMV!

Where to Take the Permit Test in Las Vegas
Las Vegas families can visit several DMV offices, including:

• Sahara DMV
• Flamingo DMV
• Decatur DMV
• Henderson DMV

How Parents Can Help Teens Pass the Permit Test
1. Use Practice Tests- Online Nevada permit practice tests are one of the best study tools
2. Study Road Signs Daily- Flashcards and quiz apps help teens memorize signs faster.
3. Practice Driving Vocabulary- Understanding terms like “yield,” “blind spot,” and “following distance” makes a huge difference.
4. Schedule the Test at the Right Time- Avoid scheduling appointments right after school or sports when teens are tired.

LAST STEP! Once they’ve secured their permit, contact your insurance company or agent to make sure they are added as a permitted driver. Don’t worry, most companies won’t raise your rates until they are fully licensed.

​Written by:
Amy Miller
Blue Sky Insurance/Agency Owner