Homeowners: Don't make these common insurance mistakes

Catastrophes, thefts, natural disasters, accidents, fires – they happen. If such misfortunes strike, a well-researched and up-to-date homeowner's insurance policy can keep your family's finances afloat during trying times. Proceeds from a homeowner's policy can provide necessary funds to replace your house and belongings. A good policy can also protect against unexpected liabilities. If you're considering a new homeowner's policy (or already have one), watch out for some common pitfalls, including the following:

Update your beneficiary designations

Who have you designated as beneficiaries for your insurance policies and retirement accounts? If you can't remember, you're not alone. But it's worth checking. If you make the wrong decision, it could affect who inherits those assets. In some cases, it could also change the taxes your beneficiaries will pay and the value they'll receive. Here are some key facts about beneficiary designations.

Ask whether you should carry life insurance on your children and you'll receive a variety of answers. Here's a look at the arguments for and against.

* Financial security. Traditionally, you take out life insurance to provide for the financial security of dependents.