The Rate Calculator will not download or it downloads unintelligible gibberish.

This problem will occur if the browser that you are using to access the internet is Netscape (all of the time), AOL (occasionally) or Internet Explorer (if the default settings have been messed around with). Internet Explorer will perform the download correctly about 98% of the time so the best solution is to use that browser for this function, if possible. Otherwise, go to the Rate Calculator link (Directory Page, black side bar, "Rate Calculators," "EXCESS Liab") place the mouse on the link and right click (on a PC) or option click/click and hold (on a Mac). You will then see a pop-up menu with several options one of which will be a "Save As" function. It may, depending upon the version of the browse that you are using, say "Save Target Link As," "Save File As," "Save XXX As," etc. Whatever it is, select it and either download it (save it) as an Excel file (if given the option) or as a text file, preferably to your desk top. If it downloaded as an Excel file you should be able to then double click it on your desk top (or wherever you put it) to open. If it came down as a text file you will need to open it from inside your Excel application. Start your Excel application, unless it is already running, then go to the File pull down menu in the upper left-hand corner of the screen. (File-Open-select xs_rating.xls).

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How do I get information into the system and get coverage bound?

First, be sure you give the record you are about to enter an identity. You can use whatever 2, 3, or 4 numbering sequence you wish followed by a dash and the last four numbers of your agency FIEN (Tax ID) number, i.e., (XXX-1234). Enter the data in the fields provided. When you wish to record the information in the database and submit it for underwriting review and acceptance select " Send Policy Order" from the pull down menu and hit either one of the "Enter" buttons.

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The entry is complete now I need to bind coverage.

When you want a policy issued that has been placed on hold pending additional information/explanation go to the entry screen, select "Edit Record" from the pull down menu, enter the record number,"Transaction ID" and hit enter. Go to the bottom of the form fill in the required data in the text box and hit the "RE-Send Policy Order" button. You should receive an immediate conformation of your transmission. If you do not get a conformation of the transmission call 1-800-880-0808.

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How do I know when coverage is in force?

The ONLY thing that effects coverage is our assignment of a specific policy number to your file. Provided that the information you provide is complete, accurate and within the underwriting parameters set out on these pages, you will receive an E-mail policy number within a few hours of your transmission. In an emergency, we will expedite this process via phone.

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I need to update a record but the system will not show me the file.

As a safety precaution, you cannot work with a record once it has been entered unless you FIRST SELECT the record. To select a record, you must enter the record number in the field provided, "Transaction ID." Go to the pull down menu and select "Show Record" and hit the "Enter" button. When you are finished, return to the pull down, select "Edit" and hit the "Enter" button again.

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A record was accidentally deleted; now what?

If you do delete a record by accident after you select it, you can simply hit the back button on your browser then choose "Add Record" "Enter" and your record will be restored. You must do this immediately after the deletion, otherwise, you may have to reenter the entire record.

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Will the system store my pending business securely?

For maximum security it is recommended that you append the last four digits of your FIEN (Tax ID number) and preface that with whatever numbering sequence you wish. Remember, if you lose or forget the number you assigned, there is very little hope that we will be able to find it for you.

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How long will my data be maintained in the database?

The information you input will be maintained until it becomes necessary for us to purge the database. You will be given ample notice of this infrequent event and the option of downloading your data to your own database program.

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Can we use the database to store our quotes?

No, the database capability is to record actual business and, to a limited extent, pending business only. In fact, it is much more convenient to simply print the quote form directly from the rate calculator and maintain it in file until actual entry becomes necessary. Remember, however, that for coverage to be issued you will have to enter all of the information into the database.

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What about backups and power failures?

The servers maintaining this site are connected to battery backups with emergency generators standing by. Each server and each piece of hardware in the network is connected to a APC battery backup unit to prevent servers from being rebooted or even damaged in case of a power surge or brown out. In addition, we have emergency gas powered generators standing by that can carry the site for days in the unlikely case of a long term power failure. In sum, it is backed up, it is safe and as long as you have power the system remains available and functional.

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How long are quote valid?

Quotes are valid for thirty days from the date they are generated by the rate calculator. It is a good idea to print a copy of every quote(s) that you generate since the rate calculator will automatically date stamp these transactions for you.

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I selected " Send Policy Order" but get "Record" or "key" already exists message?

In course of entering your data you, accidentally or otherwise, pressed either the "Return" or "Enter" key on your keyboard (remember, use the "tab" key and/or the mouse to navigate the form) which created the record prematurely. Not a problem, just hit the back command on your browser to bring up the data you wish to enter then select "Edit Record" from the pull down menu and hit "Enter."

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