Meet Mike Fernandez, State Farm Agent in New Lenox, IL

I’ve spent 29 years in insurance and financial services and so excited to be here in New Lenox, the place I've called home since 1990. Before that, I proudly served in the U.S. Air Force. Both jobs taught me the same thing: show up, do the work, and underpromise and overdeliver.

I’m licensed in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Iowa. My team and I help people in New Lenox and the surrounding towns - Mokena, Frankfort, Manhattan, Orland Park, Joliet - with everything from auto and home coverage to life insurance and small business protection.

I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all policies. Every review starts with a real conversation about what you actually own, what you’re actually worried about, and where your coverage might have gaps you don’t know exist. Then we build from there.

What Sets This Agency Apart

• U.S. Air Force veteran with 29 years in insurance and financial services

• Licensed in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Iowa

• Education-first approach where recommendations are personalized, not one-size-fits-all

• Long-term customer relationships built on integrity and follow-through

Common Insurance Questions in New Lenox, IL

Do I need more than minimum auto insurance in Illinois?

In most cases, yes. Illinois’ minimum liability limits often are not enough to cover a serious accident, which means the difference comes out of your own pocket. The right amount depends on what you drive, your assets, and who’s on your policy.

Does homeowners insurance cover a burst pipe?

Usually yes. Sudden and accidental water damage from a burst pipe is typically covered. Damage from gradual leaks or outside flooding (like a flooded basement from rain) usually isn’t. The distinction matters, and I’ll walk you through exactly where your policy draws that line.

Do I need an umbrella policy?

If you have real assets to protect, a teen driver, a pool, or a rental property, an umbrella policy is usually worth it. It extends liability coverage beyond your auto and home limits for a relatively budget friendly amount. Worth a five-minute conversation to see if it fits your situation.

How much life insurance do I actually need?

There’s no universal formula. It depends on your income, debts, and who depends on you financially. I’ll run the real numbers with you instead of relying on a generic multiplier.

What insurance do I need when buying a house in Illinois?

At minimum, homeowners insurance to protect the property and meet your lender’s requirements. Many new homeowners also reassess auto and umbrella coverage at the same time, since buying a house often changes what you have to protect.

Does renters insurance cover my belongings if I’m robbed?

Typically yes. Renters insurance covers theft of personal property, along with certain types of damage and liability, even though you don’t own the building. It’s one of the most affordable policies available and often gets overlooked.

What does business insurance cover for a small business owner?

It depends on your business type, but coverage typically includes general liability, property, and sometimes business interruption coverage. Every small business’s risk profile is different, so this is worth a direct conversation rather than a one-size-fits-all package.

How do I know if my coverage has gaps?

The only way to know for sure is a full policy review. We can compare what you’re currently covered for against what you actually own and what you’d lose in a worst-case scenario. If you haven’t reviewed your policy in a few years, or you have had a major life change, it’s worth checking.

Do I get a discount for bundling home and auto insurance?

Usually yes. Bundling multiple policies with the same company often reduces your overall cost. The savings vary based on what you’re bundling, so it’s worth asking directly.

Is pet insurance actually worth it?

It depends on your pet’s age, breed, and your risk tolerance for a large, unexpected vet bill. It typically pays off most for younger pets or breeds prone to health issues. I would be happy to walk through the numbers.

What insurance do I need for a motorcycle in Illinois?

Illinois requires liability coverage for motorcycles, similar to auto insurance, though minimums and risk factors differ. Many riders add coverage for gear and accessories too.

Does my condo association’s insurance cover my unit?

Typically not entirely. The association’s master policy usually covers the building structure and common areas, but your personal belongings, upgrades, and liability inside your unit usually need your own condo policy.

How does having a teen driver affect my insurance?

It typically raises the cost, but there can be a discount for safe-driving programs. Worth a conversation before your teen starts driving, not after.

What should I do after a car accident, and will my rates go up?

Contact your insurance agent or company as soon as possible to start the claims process; whether your rate increases depends on fault, your claims history, and your specific policy. We are available 24/7 by call or text if this happens to you.

Do I need boat insurance if my homeowners policy already covers some property?

Homeowners policies typically only cover small boats with limited liability, and often exclude larger or motorized watercraft entirely. A separate boat policy usually covers a broader range of risks.

What happens to my insurance if I start a home-based business?

Standard homeowners policies typically exclude business equipment and liability, even for a business run out of your home. A business policy or endorsement can close that gap.

If you’re buying a house, having a kid, starting a business, or just haven’t looked at your policy in a few years, then let’s talk. No pressure, no scripts, just a straight answer about where you stand.