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RISK MANAGEMENT

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Business Travel Accident Insurance

Business travel accident insurance provides faculty and staff with accidental death & dismemberment benefits while on a business trip for Northwestern University. It covers both full-time and part-time faculty and staff except those working on a temporary or seasonal basis. Premiums are paid by the University.

Any accidents while traveling on Northwestern business should be reported to the Office of Risk Management as soon as possible. Risk Management will assist with filing any claims for benefits under this program.

AXIS Business Travel Accidental Death and Dismemberment Claim Form AXIS Beneficiary Designation Form

Were you looking for international medical insurance provided by GeoBlue? Information about coverage for international medical or emergency needs can be found on the Global Safety and Security website.

Northwestern Mutual

Types of insurance, protect today and every day after with insurance..

Insurance is the best way to protect the life you've worked hard to build and give you (and your family) more financial flexibility when it's needed most.

Insurance coverage that can do more for you

At Northwestern Mutual, managing risk is a key part of our financial planning philosophy. We help people live more and worry less—today and down the road. Our advisors will help you figure out the right types of insurance, and exactly how much you need. And with the highest financial strength ratings in the industry 1 and over 164 years in this business, we'll be here whenever you need us.

There are many types of insurance to choose from.

Life insurance.

What's included: a payout (that's guaranteed) 2 when you pass away, and if it's permanent life insurance, more financial flexibility throughout your life, even in retirement. Best for: people who want to know that their loved ones will be financially secure, no matter what happens.

Disability income insurance

What's included: money to replace a portion of your income, or close the gap between your work coverage, if you're ever too sick or injured to work. Best for: individuals (even stay-at-home parents), doctors, dentists, business owners, and employers who want to protect their income, career, or employees.

Long-term care planning

What's included: a comprehensive plan that will help you pay for care if a chronic illness or injury prevents you from properly caring for yourself, no matter your age. Best for: people (or a loved one) who want the freedom to either stay at home, or get care at a facility of their choice, should they need it.

Income annuities

What's included: an additional income stream for when you retire that's guaranteed 3 and that you can never outlive. Best for: people who want to have an additional stream of retirement income that's steady and cannot be outlived.

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Questions about insurance we've got answers., what is insurance coverage.

Insurance helps you and your loved ones recover financially if the unexpected happens, like if you get sick or injured and can't work or you pass away. Get answers to all your insurance questions, connect with an advisor .

What are the different types of insurance?

There are several types of insurance that can play an important part in your financial plan: life insurance , disability insurance , long-term care , and annuities . From having a financial safety net and protecting your income, to covering the cost of care when you're older and having a guaranteed income stream when you retire, we have industry-leading options to help you reach your goals. Talk with one of our advisors about which types of insurance are best for you .

How do I know what types of insurance I need?

The best types of insurance for you and your life will depend on your needs and goals. And if you're not sure what those are, that's ok. Our advisors can help you figure it out. From life insurance , disability insurance , long-term care , and annuities , we have everything you need to help make sure you can protect what matters most.

What are the different types of life insurance?

There are four kinds of life insurance that can give you the protection you need: term life insurance , whole life insurance , universal life insurance , and variable universal life insurance . Term life only covers you for a specified amount of time, while whole, universal, and variable universal life insurance all have lifelong coverage. Whole, universal, and variable universal builds cash value over time 4 that you can use for whatever you need, whenever you need it. And whole life can earn dividends that can be taken as cash, used to pay premiums, or buy more coverage. Get more details on our different types of life insurance .

What are the benefits of insurance?

Insurance will help make sure that your loved ones will be ok financially if the unexpected happens, like if you pass away, get sick or injured and can't work, or if a chronic illness or injury prevents you (or a loved one) from living on your own or properly caring for yourself. Talk with one of our advisors about which types of insurance are best for you .

How do I get insurance rates and quotes from Northwestern Mutual?

Everyone's insurance needs are different. Our advisors will show you what kind of insurance is right for you, and how much you'll need, to keep you and your family financially secure if the unexpected happens. The best way to get an accurate quote, and get answers to your questions, is to connect with one of our advisors .

Get matched with a financial advisor in four easy steps.

Insurance policies: making your financial plan smarter.

Insurance isn't often seen as a key part of a financial plan. Our advisors can show you how the right insurance and investment strategies can give you more options, flexibility, and confidence with a financial plan tailored to your priorities and goals—now and years from now. Here's what our version of planning can do:

• Protect what you've worked so hard for.
• Make the most of what you have with recommendations for saving and managing debt.
• Grow your money with the right investments to reach your goals.

Life Insurance Calculator

How much life insurance is right for you?

Put money back into your pocket with insurance dividends.

Dividends are given out when our earnings turn out better than we thought they would when premiums were set, and benefits established. 5 As a mutual company, we don't have stockholders so instead of paying dividends to Wall Street, we pay them to our policyowners. Even though they're not guaranteed, we've paid dividends every year since 1872. Here's what you can use them for:

• Anything you want (when you take it as cash)
• Paying your premiums
• Increasing your coverage

The Northwestern Mutual difference

No. 1  ranked insurance company for consumer experience Best life insurance company for consumer experience, 2023 6 Ranking for Northwestern Mutual Investment Services LLC, ©2017–2024 and TM, NerdWallet, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

No. 1  ranked for disability income insurance Top ranked for disability income insurance 7 Latest ranking for Northwestern Mutual based on direct premiums earned S&P Global Market Intelligence

A++  financial strength rating AAA, Aaa, and AA+—we've earned the highest financial strength ratings awarded to life insurers from all four major rating agencies. 1 Awarded in the Insurance category: Life & Health industry, Fortune® Magazine's annual survey, 2017

Boost your insurance knowledge

Disability insurance calculator.

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Life Insurance Guide

How much do you know about life insurance.

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Ready to find the right insurance coverage for you?

Our advisors are here to recommend the right types, and right amount, of insurance to fit your goals and budget.

It's easy to get started—no commitment, just a conversation.

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THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

• Services & Support

International Travel

Contact ogss.

Northwestern University cares about its students, particularly when traveling internationally for university-sponsored activities. In order to provide the best service, all graduate and professional students are required to register their travel with the Office of Global Safety and Security (OGSS).

OGSS provides comprehensive guidance and resources for all kinds of emergencies abroad  and travel requirements  for   graduate students  – including the International Travel Registry .

International Travel Registry

Students planning international university-affiliated travel (e.g., conference attendance, research, field studies, performance, competition) are required to register their international travel in Northwestern’s International Travel Registry . The travel registry provides travelers with important health and safety resources prior to departure and allows Northwestern to communicate with travelers while abroad.

Register Your INTERNATIONAL Travel  

**Domestic and personal travel does not need to be registered with OGSS. Students who are fully funded by external scholarships and who will not receive any Northwestern financial support (such as a fellowship or grant, stipend top-off, or supplement) during their time abroad are not required but are encouraged  to register their travel. Learn more  here .

Additional Resources

Students traveling internationally should review the information posted on the   Office of Global Safety and Security’s website , including:

• Advice for travelers with  pre-existing health conditions
• Enrollment link for  GeoBlue health insurance coverage  [required] during travel 
• Information related to   sexual misconduct abroad
• Specific resources for optimal travel   health, safety, and security
• Emergency messages and alerts   for travelers
• Security information resources   to register for travel security alerts 

LIFE SCIENCES FINANCIAL SERVICES

Travel & reimbursement, northwestern's travel program.

Northwestern provides faculty and staff* access to two travel agencies as well as numerous contracts and negotiated rates related to business travel for airfare, hotels (local, national, and international), and rental cars. The Travel program also allows Northwestern faculty and staff to directly bill some travel expenses to their department/unit chart string rather than submitting requests for reimbursement. For more information on the benefits of booking travel through Northwestern's program, visit the About the Travel Program page and the Want More Information section below.

*For information about program eligibility, including for part-time employees and graduate students, visit the Program Eligibility page.

Already Familiar with Northwestern's Travel Program? 

Book a trip using one of our three contracted travel agencies now:

For a detailed comparison of these agencies' services and fees, please visit the Travel Agencies page.

For more information on using Northwestern's online booking tool, please visit the Egencia page.

Need to Submit a Travel Reimbursement?

For information on Northwestern's Travel, Entertainment & Courtesy policy and how to be reimbursed for qualifying travel expenses, visit the Policies and Reimbursements page.

Printable reimbursement forms:

• Visitor's Expense Report
• Expense Policy Exception Request

Want More Information about the Travel Program and How to Book University Travel?

• Travel Agencies : Learn more about Northwestern's three travel agencies and how to book travel for faculty and staff, including an overview of agency fees and services as well as tips on how to book travel through Egencia.
• Air Travel : Learn about Northwestern's contract with United, other airlines included in the travel program, and how to book airfare through the three travel agencies. 
• Hotels : Learn which nationwide hotels offer discounts to Northwestern travelers, information on local hotels, and the options for booking hotels. Read important information about direct billing hotel reservations.
• Rental Cars: Learn about discounts available through National Car Rental and Enterprise Rent-A-Car and how to secure these discounted rates.
• Policies and Reimbursements : Learn about the key policies relevant to University travel, including sponsored program travel, and about how to get reimbursed for all travel-related expenses that are not directly billed through the Travel Program.
• International Travel : Learn about international health insurance and other considerations when traveling abroad.
• negotiated rates for local hotels (near the Chicago and Evanston campuses)
• booking guest travel through Northwestern's three travel agencies
• Dining Discounts for local restaurants
• guest-related policies
• reimbursement forms for guests

Northwestern Travel Services

1801 Maple Avenue, Suite 2300 Evanston, IL 60201 [email protected] 847-491-7569

Jeffrey Levin Manager of Travel Services [email protected] 847-491-5993

Compare the Top Cheap Life Insurance Policies

Affordable life insurance reviews, cheap life insurance frequently asked questions.

• Why You Should Trust Us

How to Pick a Life Insurance Policy that Fits Your Budget

Affordable life insurance: find the right life insurance for your budget.

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Life insurance is a great way to care for your family's short-term needs once you're gone. In the right circumstances, it can also be a retirement tool and build generational wealth for your descendants. Compare cheap life insurance options that fit your budget below. 

Best Cheap Life Insurance

• Ethos Life : Best for Guaranteed Coverage
• State Farm Life Insurance : Best for Customer Satisfaction
• Guardian Life Insurance : Best for Preexisting Conditions
• New York Life Insurance : Best for Whole Life
• Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance : Best for Customized Coverage
• USAA Life Insurance : Best for Military and Veterans
• Transamerica Life Insurance : Best for Foreign Nationals

Apply for life insurance online in just a few minutes with Ethos' simple application. No medical exams are required. Just answer a few health questions—many customers enjoy same-day coverage!

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 100% online application process, quotes in minutes
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage starts immediately once approved
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Term policies renewable up to age 94 for qualifying applicants
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No conversion options to turn term policies to whole life for no exam policies
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Whole life policy limits are lower

Bundling is standard, and agents often quote with multiple discounts.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Best in JD Power customer service ratings
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Company offers a range of different insurance products to meet buyer needs
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Agents are knowledgeable about its products
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Life insurance products are conservative and limited
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Buyers may be subject to multi-year waiting periods before they qualify for full payouts on life insurance policies
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. State Farm agents cannot offer alternative options if State Farm is unable to bind a life insurance policy

State Farm is one of the insurance industry's most prominent insurers offering auto, home, and other insurance. Bundling is standard, and agents often quote with multiple discounts. Its term, universal, and whole life insurance products are no exception.

• Life insurance products include term and permanent life
• Ranks highly for customer satisfaction

A++ (Superior)

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offered nationwide
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Financial stability rating of A++ from AM Best
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. No medical exam is available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Unique coverage options like survivorship insurance and insurance for HIV applicants
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Although you can get an online quote, you will need an agent to purchase a policy
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Site pushes buyers towards term policies first
• Life insurance provider with online insurance calculator tool
• Survivorship insurance and no medical exam policy

Offers aggressive financial products and extensively trained agents.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong life insurance options for financial planning and wealth building
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Policies available nationwide
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Knowledgeable life insurance agents
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. May require a medical exam
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Buyers looking for more modest policies may not find the most competitive pricing

If you're preparing for a comfortable retirement or looking to build generational wealth, New York Life is one of the strongest options. If you have questions or genuinely want to understand your life insurance options, New York Life agents are among the most qualified professionals in the business.

• Life insurance provider with policies available across the US

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong financial stability rating
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High customer satisfaction
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Company offers advising and financial planning
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No easy way to get a quote to compare prices
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Life insurance agents may not be able to effectively discuss the full range of available Northwestern Mutual life insurance products
• 5/5 for claims satisfaction according to JD Power
• Offers whole, universal, variable universal, and term life insurance policies

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable pricing starting with $12/month on some policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. May offer coverage to military members other companies won't cover
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers term and permanent life insurance options
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. 2 year waiting period for full benefits on some policies
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. May focus on death benefits only more than other companies
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. All permanent policies are underwritten and serviced by other companies, not by USAA
• USAA offers life insurance for the military, veterans, and the public.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Available in all 50 states
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Wide range of life insurance products including term, universal, foreign nationals, and more
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Policies available for foreign nationals
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Can only be quoted and sold by licensed Transamerica life insurance agents
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Life insurance not available for certain high-risk clients

Best for Customer Satisfaction: State Farm Life Insurance

State Farm Life Insurance took the top spot in the most recent JD Power US Life Insurance Study. Its agents are well versed in its auto, home, life, and other insurance products, quoting with all applicable discounts, claims management, and more. State Farm sells several types of whole life policies ranging from a single premium option (for immediate protection) to a whole life policy with fixed payments. Adults between 50 and 80 may also qualify for a final expense policy with a $10,000 death benefit.

State Farm Life Insurance operates in all states except Massachusetts, New York, and Wisconsin. State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company offers similar life insurance policies in New York and Wisconsin. Wherever you are within the US, quoting is easy, especially if you're already a customer.

Read our State Farm Life Insurance review here.

Best for Preexisting Conditions: Guardian Life Insurance

Guardian Life Insurance  offers easy online quotes in minutes with no insurance agent required. In addition, the company offers term policies as short as 10 years and as long as 30 years. It also provides whole, universal, and other life insurance products.

What sets Guardian Life apart from other life insurance companies is its unique HIV life insurance. Of course, conditions apply, such as a two-year history of antiretroviral therapy, no AIDS-defining illnesses, and an undetectable HIV viral load. Recently, the company has expanded this program to allow buyers up to age 65. Buyers with a history of IV drug use also have more flexibility as the company can offer coverage after seven years instead of the previous 10 years. The HIV plan is just one of the innovative life insurance products offered by a select few life insurance providers, including Guardian Life.

Read our Guardian Life Insurance review here.

Best for Guaranteed Coverage: Ethos Life Insurance

Ethos Life  is known for its efforts to work with difficult-to-insure populations. The company offers easy online quotes and term and permanent life insurance options. It also has guaranteed issue policies, meaning guaranteed acceptance if you fall between predefined age limits. At this time, all guaranteed issue policies with Ethos are whole life policies. While some companies may offer no medical exam term life insurance , issuance requires underwriter review.

Ethos' guaranteed coverage plans can offer death benefits up to $25,000 for applicants between 65 and 85. Guaranteed plans primarily cover funerals and other final expenses. If you're seeking a higher death benefit, Ethos offers whole, term, and no medical exam policies. Its monthly premiums start at just $7 per month, but interested customers should get a quote on their preferred life insurance plan to nail down exact premiums.

Read our Ethos Life Insurance review here.

Best for Whole Life: New York Life Insurance

New York Life Insurance  specializes in multi-million dollar investment policies great for retirement planning with term, whole, and universal life insurance options . However, it does not provide online quotes. In addition, New York Life insurance agents complete extensive training to answer all questions about its policies and help buyers identify the right policy. New York Life agents can add riders to customize plans to meet your needs. Even with some of its smaller policies, policyholders may earn dividends.

Read our New York Life Insurance review here.

Best for Customized Coverage: Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance

Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance  temporarily unseated State Farm as the top life insurance company in customer satisfaction. While it may not top JD Power's rankings currently, the company continues to offer easy quoting, strong customer service, and a streamlined process overall. Northwestern Mutual also allows buyers to utilize diverse riders to customize plans to meet their needs.

Adding a rider to protect your life insurance benefits if you're sick and can't make payments is just one of the affordable life insurance riders offered by Northwestern Mutual. Working with a qualified life insurance agent is the best way to ensure you can customize your plan to meet your needs.

Read our Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance review here.

Best for Military and Veterans: USAA Life Insurance

USAA Life Insurance is available to buyers with no connection to the military, though USAA as a whole has become synonymous with financial services for veterans. What makes it unique is its life insurance policies are open to active-duty military members. Outside of SGLI (servicemember's group life insurance), many life insurance companies restrict coverage for military members in specific ways. SGLI may be generous while you're involved with the military. But once you separate, the coverage would no longer be available.

USAA offers whole life insurance policies with expedited coverage for deployed soldiers. It also provides severe injury benefits and coverage for wartime. One key selling point for veterans is USAA guarantees SGLI replacement when separating from the military.

Read our USAA Life Insurance review here.

Best for Foreign Nationals: Transamerica Life Insurance

Transamerica Life Insurance  (AEGON) offers life insurance limits of up to $10 million with many universal life insurance policies and other permanent options. Visa holders can also buy plans with Transamerica. When evaluating your risk class, some restrictions may apply depending on the country of origin.

Transamerica has decades of history in the life insurance market. It also reports faster underwriting and processing times than its competitors. If you're interested in life insurance with Transamerica, we recommend contacting an agent. It offers limited quotes online, but many of the best policies are only sold through licensed insurance agents.

Read our Transamerica Life Insurance review here.

The average cost of life insurance is $40-$55 a month. Keep in mind that your monthly premium will vary depending on the type of policy you purchase and how much coverage you select.

The cheapest life insurance is term life insurance. Term life insurance policies only last for a set amount of time (usually 10 to 30 years) and they don't accrue any cash value like whole life policies do. Read our guide to the best term life insurance companies to learn more.

Your life insurance will be cheaper the younger you are. As you age, the probability that your insurer will have to pay out on your policy rises and therefore, your premium will be higher.

Term life insurance is generally the cheapest type of life insurance, but it's the cheapest for a reason: It expires after a set term. You can buy a 30-year term life insurance policy, but if you outlive the policy, your relatives won't receive any payout when you die.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Chose the Cheapest Life Insurance

We look beyond the obvious factors like online quote calculators and affordable pricing to see what life insurance companies offer. Our life insurance ratings methodology reflects aspects including:

• Customer satisfaction (as rated by JD Power)
• Financial stability (as rated by AM Best)
• Policy types offered
• Average monthly premiums/affordability
• Waiting periods required for complete life insurance benefits
• Exclusions that would prevent you from getting life insurance with the company being reviewed
• What you can expect from life insurance agents who quote a company's policies
• How available are a company's life insurance products? (is it licensed to sell life insurance in all 50 states and Washington, DC?)
• How ethical company practices are measured by recent controversies, charitable activities or donations, etc.

We recommend starting with online research if you want a life insurance plan. You can get quotes online if you want a plan to cover funerals and other limited costs. But first, decide what you want your life insurance plan to do, how much you can afford to spend each month, etc.

Next, we recommend talking to at least one licensed insurance agent. Some of the best life insurance products can only be quoted or sold through a licensed insurance agent. Ask questions about the things you don't understand. Let an agent help you calculate the ideal benefit for your needs. Ask which riders customers add to the policies you're looking at, and compare three life insurance quotes.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

**Enrollment required.

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Is It Safe in Moscow?

Stanislav Solntsev / Getty Images

When you visit Moscow , Russia, you’re seeing one of the world’s largest, and most expensive, capital cities . While there is a history of violent crime against foreign journalists and aid personnel in Russia, a trip to Moscow is usually safe for mainstream travelers. Most tourists in Moscow only face potential issues with petty crime, though terrorism is also a concern. Visitors should stick to the principal tourist areas and abide by the local security advice.

Travel Advisories

• The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to avoid travel to Russia because of COVID-19 and to "exercise increased caution due to terrorism, harassment, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws."  
• Anyone exploring more of Russia should avoid "The North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus, due to terrorism, kidnapping,   and   risk of civil unrest." Also, travelers should stay away from "Crimea due to Russia’s occupation of the Ukrainian territory   and   abuses by its occupying authorities."  
• Canada states travelers should use a high degree of caution in Russia due to the threat of terrorism and crime.  

Is Moscow Dangerous?

The Moscow city center is typically safe. In general, the closer you are to the Kremlin , the better. Travelers mainly need to be aware of their surroundings and look out for petty crime. Be especially careful in tourist areas such as Arbat Street and crowded places like the Moscow Metro transit system. The suburbs are also generally fine, though it is advised to stay away from Maryino and Perovo districts.

Terrorism has occurred in the Moscow area, leading authorities to increase security measures. Be more careful at tourist and transportation hubs, places of worship, government buildings, schools, airports, crowds, open markets, and additional tourist sites.

Pickpockets and purse snatching happen often in Russia, perpetrated by groups of children and teenagers who distract tourists to get their wallets and credit cards. Beware of people asking you for help, who then trick you into their scheme. Don’t expect a backpack to be a safe bag bet; instead, invest in something that you can clutch close to your body or purchase a money belt . Always diversify, storing some money in a separate location so that if you are pickpocketed, you'll have cash elsewhere. Keep an eye out for thieves in public transportation, underground walkways, tourist spots, restaurants, hotel rooms and homes, restaurants, and markets.

Is Moscow Safe for Solo Travelers?

Large cities like Moscow in Russia are overall fairly safe if you are traveling alone, and the Moscow Metro public transit is a secure and easy way to get around. But it is still a good idea to follow basic precautions as in any destination. Avoid exploring alone at night, especially in bad areas. You may want to learn some basic Russian phrases or bring a dictionary, as many locals don't speak English. However, in case you need any help, there are tourist police that speak English. Also, exploring with other trusted travelers and locals or on professional tours is often a good way to feel safe.

Is Moscow Safe for Female Travelers?

Catcalling and street harassment are infrequent in Moscow and the rest of Russia and females traveling alone don't usually have problems. There are plenty of police officers on the streets as well. Still, it serves to stick to Moscow's well-lit, public areas, avoid solo night walks, and use your instincts. Women frequenting bars may take receive some friendly attention. Females can wear whatever they want, but those entering Orthodox churches will be required to cover up. Though women in Russia are independent, domestic violence and other inequality issues take place regularly.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Russia is not known as a gay-friendly country. However, Moscow is one of the more welcoming cities with a blooming LGBTQ+ community and many friendly restaurants, bars, clubs, and other venues. Hate crimes in Russia have increased since the 2013 anti-gay propaganda law. Openly LGBTQ+ tourists in this conservative country may experience homophobic remarks, discrimination, or even violence, especially if traveling with a partner. Also, while women hold hands or hug publicly—whether romantically involved or not—men should avoid public displays of affection to prevent being insulted or other issues.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Moscow  and other big cities in Russia have sizable populations of various cultures, so discrimination against BIPOC travelers is rarer than in other parts of the country where it can become dangerous. Some people living in Russia who are Black, Asian, Jewish, and from other backgrounds have experienced racial discrimination and violence. Tourists won't usually experience overt racism but may be the recipients of some stares. If anyone should bother you, be polite and resist being taunted into physically defending yourself.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Travelers should consider the following general tips when visiting:

• It's best not to drink the tap water. If you do, boil it before drinking, though showering is safe and the amount used to brush teeth is generally not harmful. Mineral water is widely drunk, especially at restaurants, and if you prefer not to have it carbonated ask for “ voda byez gaz” (water without gas).
• If you need emergency assistance in case of fire, terrorism, medical issues, or more, dial 112 in Russia for bilingual operators.
• Be judicious about taking photographs, especially of police or officials. This can potentially bring unwanted attention to yourself by members of law enforcement who won’t mind asking to see your passport. Also avoid snapping photos of official-looking buildings, such as embassies and government headquarters.
• Carry your passport in as secure a manner as possible. If you get stopped for any reason by the police, they can fine or arrest you if you don't have the document with you. Also, keep photocopies of your passport, the page on which your travel visa appears, and any other documents that relate to your stay in Russia.
• Use official taxis only and steer clear of illegal taxi companies, especially at night. Ask your hotel to call a reputable taxi company.

U.S. Department of State. " Russia Travel Advisory ." August 6, 2020.

Government of Canada. " Official Global Travel Advisories ." November 19, 2020.

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Is It Safe in Russia?

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Alabama vs. UConn: Predictions and odds for Final Four March Madness game

The UConn Huskies continued their streak of dominance in the NCAA Tournament with a win over No. 3 Illinois in the Elite Eight . However, their strong run could come to an end on Saturday, April 6 as the Alabama Crimson Tide , fresh off a win over No. 6 Clemson , look to punch their ticket to their school's first-ever NCAA Finals.

Saturday will be Alabama's first Final Four contest in school history. UConn, meanwhile, has been here a time or two before. Not only are they the reigning champions, but they've won two other national titles since 2010.

Alabama does not have the same experience in these big moments that UConn has. Of course, that doesn't mean the Huskies are destined to defeat Alabama this weekend. After all, the Crimson Tide have been one of the best offensive teams in college basketball all year. Taking down North Carolina in the Elite Eight was no easy task either. UConn is on a different level entirely though. This will certainly be Alabama's toughest test of the year.

Here's everything you need to know about Saturday's Final Four matchup.

Men’s March Madness live updates: Elite Eight predictions, NCAA bracket, how to watch

FOLLOW THE MADNESS: NCAA basketball bracket, scores, schedules, teams and more.

Predictions for No. 4 Alabama vs. No. 1 UConn:

On3 : UConn 86, Alabama 77

Griffin McVeigh writes, "For this game between UConn and Alabama, KenPom agrees with Vegas, projecting the Huskies to walk away with a victory."

Not only does KenPom believe the Huskies will win this game though, but KenPom believes the Huskies will win without much struggle, giving UConn an 88 percent chance to come away from Saturday's contest victorious.

VSiN : UConn wins

Adam Burke writes, "It is scary, though, that UConn beat Northwestern going 3-of-22 from 3 and beat Illinois by 25 going 3-of-17 from 3. The task at hand for Alabama is a big one and they’re going to have to shoot the lights out and then some to pull the upset based on what we’ve seen over the last 10 NCAA Tournament games for UConn."

Action Network : UConn 83, Alabama 77

Action Network points out that outside of tempo and free throw rate, the UConn Huskies have the statistical edge over Alabama in practically every category. Although Alabama is playing their best basketball of the season right now, we've seen UConn be able to win games even when not playing their best, as was the case with Northwestern and Illinois. Alabama will have to kick their offense into an even higher gear if they want any chance of winning.

No. 4 Alabama vs. No. 1 UConn odds, lines:

The Huskies are favorites to defeat the Crimson Tide, according to the  BetMGM NCAA odds . Looking to wager? Check out the  best mobile sports betting apps  offering  NCAA betting promos in 2023 .

All odds as of Sunday, March 31.

• Spread:  UConn (-11.5)
• Moneyline:  UConn (-800); Alabama (+550)
• Over/under:  161.5

How to watch Saturday's Final Four matchup Alabama vs. UConn:

• When:  Saturday, April 6, 2024
• Where:  State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ
• Stream: FuboTV , Paramount+

Stream the game: Watch NCAA Final Four action with Fubo

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A.M. Best ratings evaluate insurance companies' financial strength — here's what you need to know about these scores

How a.m. best ratings can help you shop for an insurance company.

A.M. Best is a credit rating agency that began reviewing insurance companies back in 1899. Issued annually, its grades illustrate an insurer's ability to pay out on claims and meet other financial obligations.

CNBC Select often uses A.M. Best's ratings to help determine the best insurance companies in many different categories .

Here's what you need to know about A.M. Best ratings, including what they rank, how grades are determined and how you can use them when shopping for insurance.

A.M. Best ratings

What is a.m. best, how does a.m. best rate insurance companies, what is the a.m. best rating scale, how to use a.m. best's ratings, bottom line, find the best auto insurance.

An insurer has to be financially healthy to be able to pay out claims. As an independent credit rating agency, A.M. Best translates balance sheets and other data into letter grades that can be understood by consumers, investors and others in the insurance industry.

A.M. Best reviews and rates over 16,000 insurance companies globally, from household names to niche providers. Grades range from A+ to D, and each grade may also have a notch (or an additional "+") to indicate its strength within that grade. For example, an A+ company with an outstanding ability to meet its obligations would be categorized as A++.

A.M. Best's grades are relevant to all kinds of insurance. A life insurance policy , for example, may not pay out for decades. So it's important for a life insurance company to be in good financial standing for the long haul.

Northwestern Mutual , New York Life and MassMutual all received A++ ratings from A.M. Best in 2023.

Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance

The best way to estimate your costs is to request a quote

App available

Policy highlights.

As the largest life insurer by market share in the U.S., Northwestern Mutual is an established choice with a proven record. And, it offers a number of types of policies across the country. 

MassMutual Life Insurance

MassMutual has been in business for over 170 years, and carries the highest ratings for financial security from AM Best. 

There are also companies that issue homeowners and auto insurance policies with A++ ratings, including State Farm , Geico , Travelers and USAA .

State Farm Auto Insurance

State farm is one of the largest auto insurers based on market share and has an excellent reputation for customer satisfaction. It offers 13 discounts, including ones for safe driving and young drivers.

Terms apply.

Read our State Farm Auto Insurance review.

Geico Auto Insurance

Geico coverage and services are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia and there are 16 different types of discounts available. In addition to the standard coverage options, Geico offers various optional add-ons, such as emergency roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement and mechanical breakdown insurance.

Read our Geico Auto Insurance review.

• Lowest average rates
• Inclusive coverage options, including high-risk drivers
• Available nationwide
• High premiums for high-risk drivers 
• Fewer branches for in-person services

Travelers Auto Insurance

Travelers auto insurance policies are affordable and backed by the sixth largest company for car insurance by market share according to the NAIC. The company also offers a number of discounts to customers, including discounts for bundling, owning a hybrid or electric car, and good student discounts.

USAA Auto Insurance

USAA's auto insurance is available in all 50 states, Washington D.C. and some international locations. In addition to low rates and coverage options for unique circumstances, such as for active-duty members, customers have access to an intuitive mobile app.

A.M. Best grades insurers' credit in several categories , including their ability to meet their short- term, long-term and ongoing financial obligations. It's best known for its financial strength ratings (FSRs), however, which look at a company's ability to meet all of its policy and contract obligations.

According to A.M. Best , the ratings are predictions based on balance sheet strength, performance, business profile information and other data. As such, they're not a guarantee of future performance or meant as investment advice.

To calculate ratings , A.M. Best says its analysts make "quantitative and qualitative evaluations of balance sheet strength, operating performance, business profile and enterprise risk management" and bring their findings to a committee, which votes on a rating recommendation.

A.M. Best grades insurance companies on financial health by assigning them letter grades ranging from A+ to D. These grades can also include a notch to further distinguish financial strength within a grade.

An A+ company with superior financial strength, for example, would be graded as A++. And a B company with less solvency could be graded as B-.

These are the grade categories, based on A.M. Best's belief in a company's ability to meet ongoing obligations.

• Superior : Rating: A+, Notches: A++
• Excellent : Rating: A, Notches: A-
• Good : Rating: B+, Notches: B++
• Fair : Rating: B, Notches: B-
• Marginal: Rating: C+, Notches: C++
• Weak : Rating: C, Notches: C-
• Poor : Rating: D

An Under Review modifier, or "U," may also be added to a company's grade if there is a potential for a near-term change to its score, usually within the next six months. The Under Review marker can imply positive or negative results.

• Under review with positive implications: There is a reasonable likelihood the grade will be raised as a result of recent information.
• Under review with negative implications: The company is facing unfavorable financial or market conditions and has a good possibility of a rating downgrade.
• Under review with developing implications: There is still uncertainty as to the outcome of the review.

FSRs distill a lot of financial information into an accessible format, providing an important metric you can use to evaluate an insurance company.

• To ensure a score is current and accurate, get it from the A.M Best website directly.
• Major carriers like State Farm and Allstate have numerous subsidiaries for property, auto and other insurance categories and A.M. Best grades each separately. Make sure you're looking at the right one.
• Look beyond the score to the factors that led A.M Best to give a company its grade and notch to see if they concern you.
• Review an insurer's grade over time for an idea of its long-term financial health.
• Look at scores from other credit rating agencies for comparison, including S&P Global and Moody's .

FSRs shouldn't be the sole reason to purchase or switch to a particular carrier, especially since they don't consider rates and terms for a specific policy. They also don't address customer satisfaction — the National Association of Insurance Commissioners ' Complaint Index, J.D. Power's customer satisfaction ratings and the Better Business Bureau 's grades are more helpful there.

Shop for your next homeowners insurance policy

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

A.M. Best creates ratings for the insurance industry, including a measure of a company's ability to pay claims and meet financial obligations, called its financial strength rating. It's another factor you can use to decide which insurance company is a good fit for you.

Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every insurance review is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of insurance products . While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics.

Catch up on CNBC Select's in-depth coverage of  credit cards ,  banking  and  money , and follow us on  TikTok ,  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date.

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F.D.A. Authorizes New Drug to Protect High-Risk Patients From Covid

Pemgarda, available in the coming weeks, is intended for immunocompromised people who are unlikely to mount an adequate response after vaccination.

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By Dani Blum

The Food and Drug Administration has greenlit a new medicine to protect some of the people most at risk from Covid.

The agency granted emergency use authorization for Pemgarda, a monoclonal antibody infusion, in immunocompromised people ages 12 and older. The drug is intended to protect against Covid for people who are not likely to mount an adequate immune response after vaccination. This includes those who have received stem cell or organ transplants and cancer patients taking medications that suppress the immune system.

“It’s going to be for a very small section of Americans,” said Dr. Michael Mina, a former Harvard epidemiologist who is now the chief science officer for eMed, a telehealth company. But, he said, it’s a vital group to protect: the people who most feel left behind at this stage in the pandemic.

“For people who are immunocompromised and literally defenseless because their immune system doesn’t really work, this is really an important development,” said Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly, the chief of research and development at the Veterans Affairs St. Louis Healthcare System.

Pemgarda will become available within the next week or two, said David Hering, the chief executive of Invivyd, the company that makes it. The company is still evaluating what the drug will cost, Mr. Hering said; he expects that Medicare and private insurance plans will cover it.

The drug is given as an infusion in doctors’ offices and other health care settings; it takes about an hour to complete the infusion. The most common side effects in a clinical trial included reactions at the infusion site, cold and flulike illness, fatigue, headaches and nausea. Four out of 623 participants in the trial experienced anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction.

The goal is to give people the drug before they encounter the virus, to reduce the risk of severe outcomes from Covid and lower the chance of contracting the virus at all. “You think about it like vaccines,” Dr. Al-Aly explained. The drug is not a treatment for those who have Covid: You cannot take Pemgarda if you currently have the virus or were recently exposed.

People may opt to get a dose of the drug as often as every three months, Mr. Hering said. It’s not clear whether some people will have to get additional doses of the drug indefinitely, said Dr. Joseph Bailey, a pulmonologist with the Northwestern Medicine Comprehensive COVID-19 Center.

Pemgarda is not yet fully approved . “They haven’t taken it all the way across the finish line with their study yet,” Dr. Bailey said. The agency authorized the drug based on data that gauged people’s titers, a measure of antibodies, and so it’s too soon to assess exactly how effective the medication will be at preventing infections in the real world.

Previous monoclonal antibody treatments, like Evusheld , were removed from the market as they became less effective against new Covid variants. The company making Pemgarda is gearing up to target new variants as they emerge, Mr. Hering said. But it remains to be seen what will actually happen if and when the virus evolves, said Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California, San Francisco.

Still, experts are hopeful. “As long as there’s still this slice of the population that remains highly vulnerable, the whole community has to really be massively cognizant of the virus,” Dr. Mina said.

Dani Blum is a health reporter for The Times. More about Dani Blum