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You’ve poured countless hours and hard-earned dollars into transforming your vehicle, from performance engine swaps and suspension overhauls to custom paint and high-end audio systems. But does your insurance policy see a unique masterpiece or just another car off the assembly line? Standard auto insurance is notorious for undervaluing or outright denying claims involving custom vehicles, typically only covering factory-spec components. This leaves you financially exposed if your car is stolen or damaged, potentially costing you thousands.

This guide is built to solve that problem. We're diving deep into the world of specialized coverage to help you find the best insurance for modified cars. We will compare top-tier providers like Hagerty, Grundy, and Progressive, detailing their specific policy endorsements for custom parts and equipment. You'll learn the crucial differences between a standard 'Actual Cash Value' policy and the 'Agreed Value' coverage your build truly needs. To truly understand the value of your custom ride and avoid undervaluation, it's essential to grasp the fundamental differences between OEM and aftermarket parts.

Forget the guesswork. This comprehensive roundup provides actionable insights, pros and cons for each insurer, and direct links to get you started. We’ll show you exactly how to document your modifications, navigate underwriting, and secure a policy that protects the full, true worth of your unique vehicle, whether it’s a daily driver with a few upgrades or a full-blown show car.

1. Hagerty

Hagerty has carved out a dominant niche as the go-to specialty insurer for enthusiasts, making it a premier choice for finding the best insurance for modified cars. Unlike standard auto insurers that often struggle to value aftermarket parts, Hagerty’s entire business model revolves around understanding the unique worth of custom, classic, and high-performance vehicles. They specialize in "agreed value" or "guaranteed value" policies, which lock in your car's total loss payout from the start, preventing disputes over depreciation or the cost of your modifications.

Their online platform is designed for owners of resto-mods, hot rods, tuners, and high-horsepower builds. You can get a quote directly through their website, which guides you through the process of declaring modifications and establishing an appropriate value for your vehicle. This is a crucial step for any owner who has invested significant time and money into their project.

A classic modified hot rod insured by Hagerty

Key Features and Unique Offerings

What sets Hagerty apart is its deep-rooted expertise and policies built specifically for car culture. Their coverage is designed for hobbyists, not daily commuters.

  • Guaranteed Value® Coverage: You and Hagerty agree on the car's value-including all modifications-when the policy starts. If you suffer a total loss, they pay that full agreed-upon amount, less any deductible.
  • Vehicle Under Construction: This endorsement is a game-changer for project cars. It automatically increases your car’s covered value by 10% each quarter (up to a $25,000 total increase) to protect your growing investment as you build.
  • Flexible Repair Options: Hagerty allows you to choose your preferred repair shop. In many cases, they even offer claim payouts that allow you to perform the repairs yourself, which is a huge benefit for hands-on owners.
  • Cherished Salvage®: In the event of a total loss, this option (where available) lets you keep your damaged vehicle and still receive the full Guaranteed Value® payout.

Pros & Cons of Hagerty Insurance

Pros Cons
✅ Deep expertise in valuing modified cars ❌ Not suitable for daily drivers; usage limits apply
✅ Guaranteed Value® coverage eliminates claim disputes ❌ Strict garaging requirements (e.g., locked garage)
✅ Owner-friendly claims (DIY repair, choice of shop) ❌ Certain coverages like Cherished Salvage® aren't available in all states
✅ "Vehicle Under Construction" coverage for projects ❌ May require a separate policy for your primary vehicle

Pro Tip: When applying for a Hagerty policy, be meticulous with your documentation. Have a detailed list of modifications, receipts, and high-quality photos ready. This strengthens your case for the agreed value you are seeking and streamlines the underwriting process.

Hagerty's policies are tailored for vehicles that are not primary transportation. This aligns with many of the classic car insurance requirements which often include secure storage, a clean driving record, and limited mileage.

Website: https://www.hagerty.com/insurance/modified-vehicles

2. Grundy Insurance

With a history stretching back to 1947, Grundy Insurance is a veteran in the specialty vehicle space and a formidable option for owners seeking the best insurance for modified cars. Like other top-tier collector insurers, Grundy centers its policies on an "agreed value" foundation. This ensures that the full, predetermined value of your car-including all your hard-earned modifications-is paid out in the event of a total loss, removing the uncertainty associated with standard policies.

Grundy's platform is particularly welcoming to a broad spectrum of enthusiast vehicles, from classic muscle and resto-mods to modern exotics and highly tuned imports. You can begin the process of securing coverage through their online quote system, which is designed to capture the details of your specific build. This focus on individual vehicle assessment makes them a reliable choice for owners who need an insurer that understands the difference between book value and true market value.

A classic car insured by Grundy Insurance

Key Features and Unique Offerings

Grundy distinguishes itself with comprehensive agreed value coverage and unique multi-vehicle solutions designed for serious collectors and enthusiast households.

  • Agreed Value Coverage: The cornerstone of their policies. You and Grundy agree on your car's value upfront, and that is precisely what you receive if the vehicle is deemed a total loss, less any deductible.
  • Broad Vehicle Acceptance: Grundy is known for its willingness to insure a wide range of vehicles, including professionally built hot rods, modern muscle cars, tuners, and exotic sports cars that standard carriers often decline.
  • The MVP Program: A standout feature, the "Motor Vehicle Program" allows you to bundle your daily drivers, collector cars, and even other vehicles like trailers or motorhomes onto a single policy. All vehicles benefit from agreed value coverage, simplifying insurance management for households with multiple cars.
  • Enhanced Policy Options: Depending on your state, you may be able to add endorsements like a 150% replacement value guarantee, which provides a buffer if your vehicle's market value increases significantly.

Pros & Cons of Grundy Insurance

Pros Cons
✅ Agreed value policies provide financial certainty ❌ Primarily for hobby use; not intended for daily commuting
✅ Broad acceptance of many modified vehicle types ❌ Track day and racing use is typically excluded from coverage
✅ Unique MVP program for bundling collector and daily vehicles ❌ Availability of enhanced endorsements can vary by state
✅ Long-standing, reputable specialty underwriter ❌ Requires secure storage, such as a locked garage

Pro Tip: If you own both a modified car and a daily driver, ask about the MVP program during the quoting process. Consolidating your policies with Grundy can often streamline your insurance needs and ensure all your vehicles are protected under an agreed value framework, which is a significant advantage.

Grundy's policies are built for pleasure use, aligning with the typical requirements of collector car insurance. This means they expect the vehicle to be used for hobbyist activities and not as primary transportation.

Website: https://www.grundy.com/classic-cars/

3. American Collectors Insurance

American Collectors Insurance offers a strong alternative for owners seeking the best insurance for modified cars, focusing specifically on the collector and hobbyist market. Like other specialty insurers, they understand that a modified vehicle's value is more than the sum of its parts; it’s an investment of passion and labor. Their core offering is an agreed value policy, ensuring you receive a predetermined payout for a total loss, which is essential for custom builds like hot rods, resto-mods, lowriders, and tuners.

The platform is built for enthusiasts, providing a streamlined online quote process that recognizes the unique nature of modified vehicles. You can quickly enter your car's details, declare your customizations, and get a clear picture of your premium. This direct-to-consumer approach simplifies securing coverage for a vehicle that standard insurers might outright reject or undervalue significantly.

A custom car insured by American Collectors Insurance

Key Features and Unique Offerings

American Collectors Insurance tailors its policies with features that resonate with car enthusiasts who actively build, show, and enjoy their vehicles.

  • Agreed Value Coverage: This is the foundation of their policies. You work with them to set a fair, guaranteed value for your car, including all modifications, which protects you from disputes over depreciation.
  • Flexible Mileage Tiers: They offer various mileage plans (e.g., 1,000, 2,500, 5,000, or 7,500 miles annually), allowing you to pay only for the usage you need, whether your car is a weekend cruiser or a show regular.
  • Restoration Coverage: For vehicles undergoing restoration or modification, this coverage protects your investment while the car is in the shop or being worked on at home.
  • Inflation Guard: A standout feature that automatically increases your vehicle’s agreed value by 2% every quarter (up to a maximum of 8% per year) at no extra cost, helping your coverage keep pace with rising restoration costs and vehicle values.

Pros & Cons of American Collectors Insurance

Pros Cons
✅ Collector-focused underwriting with relevant features like spare parts and inflation guard ❌ Not intended for daily drivers; garaging and driver history requirements apply
✅ Fast online quoting and turnaround ❌ Full annual premium may be required to bind coverage
✅ Flexible mileage plans fit various hobbyist needs ❌ Less brand recognition compared to giants like Hagerty
✅ Automatic quarterly value increases with Inflation Guard ❌ Limited availability for certain high-risk modifications

Pro Tip: Use the American Collectors Insurance online quote tool to experiment with different mileage tiers. You might find significant savings by accurately estimating your annual usage, freeing up funds for your next modification or car show entry.

Their policies are designed for secondary vehicles, which means they are not suitable for your primary daily transportation. This focus allows them to offer competitive rates while understanding that a minor accident can have a major financial impact, which is why owners should also understand how a diminished value claim after a car accident works to protect their investment.

Website: https://americancollectors.com/agents/insurance/hotrods-customs/

4. Heacock Classic

Heacock Classic is another strong contender in the specialty market, offering some of the best insurance for modified cars, particularly for owners of American muscle and hot rods. With a heritage dating back to the 1980s, Heacock understands the enthusiast mindset and provides policies that protect the unique value of restored and customized vehicles. Their approach blends the security of an agreed value policy with personalized service from collector car specialists.

The platform is geared toward owners who are actively involved in the car hobby, whether that means attending shows, participating in club events, or dedicating weekends to a restoration project. You can start the quote process through their website, but they emphasize agent-assisted service, ensuring an expert helps you accurately document your modifications and establish a fair, agreed-upon value for your prized vehicle.

A classic American muscle car insured by Heacock Classic

Key Features and Unique Offerings

Heacock Classic's policies are designed with the hands-on enthusiast in mind, offering specific coverages that standard insurers simply don't provide. Their wide availability across the U.S. makes them an accessible choice for many collectors.

  • Agreed Value Coverage: Similar to other specialty insurers, Heacock locks in your car's value at the start of the policy. This figure, which includes your modifications, is what you receive in the event of a covered total loss, with no arguments about depreciation.
  • Included Spare Parts Coverage: A standout feature is the automatic inclusion of spare parts coverage. Policies often come with up to $2,000 in coverage for spare parts associated with your insured vehicle at no additional cost, which is ideal for owners who are in the middle of a build or keep valuable components on hand.
  • Nationwide Availability: Heacock Classic offers coverage in 48 states, providing a broad footprint that makes their specialty policies accessible to a vast number of enthusiasts across the country.
  • Specialist Support: The company prides itself on its team of collector specialists who can guide you through the underwriting process, helping you accurately value a car that is undergoing restoration or has significant custom work.

Pros & Cons of Heacock Classic Insurance

Pros Cons
✅ Policies are tailored for muscle cars and hot rods ❌ Not designed for daily drivers; strict usage limitations
✅ Includes spare parts coverage at no extra cost ❌ Secure garaging (e.g., locked garage) is typically required
✅ Agreed value policies prevent claim disputes ❌ Online self-service is less robust; agent interaction is often necessary
✅ Specialist agents assist with valuing modifications ❌ May not be the most competitive for every type of modified vehicle

Pro Tip: When speaking with a Heacock Classic agent, be prepared to discuss your car's intended use in detail. Highlighting its role in club events, shows, and pleasure drives will reinforce its status as a hobby vehicle and help you qualify for their specialty collector policy.

Heacock Classic is a fantastic option for restorers and hobbyists who value direct interaction with an expert. Their policies are built to protect cars that are more than just transportation; they're a passion.

Website: https://heacockclassic.com/collector-cars/muscle-cars-hot-rods/

5. Progressive

For owners of daily-driven vehicles with light to moderate upgrades, Progressive offers a practical and accessible solution. While not a specialty insurer like Hagerty, Progressive stands out as a mainstream carrier that provides a clear pathway to obtaining the best insurance for modified cars through its Custom Parts & Equipment (CPE) endorsement. This add-on coverage is specifically designed to protect the value of your aftermarket parts, from custom wheels and exhaust systems to upgraded audio and interior components.

Their website provides a seamless online quoting process where you can easily add CPE coverage to a standard policy. This approach is ideal for the enthusiast who uses their modified car for daily commuting and needs comprehensive protection without the usage restrictions often associated with classic or collector car policies. It bridges the gap between a basic auto policy that ignores modifications and a full specialty policy that may be overkill for a street-driven build.

A user navigating the Progressive car insurance quote page

Key Features and Unique Offerings

Progressive's strength lies in its ability to integrate modification coverage into a standard, everyday insurance policy, making it convenient and widely available.

  • Custom Parts & Equipment (CPE) Coverage: This is the core offering for modified cars. It's an endorsement that adds coverage for aftermarket parts, typically up to a specified limit like $5,000, though limits can vary.
  • Nationwide Availability: As one of the largest insurers in the U.S., Progressive offers policies in all 50 states, making it an easy-to-find option no matter where you live.
  • Full Online Service: You can get a quote, purchase a policy, and manage your account entirely online, including declaring your need for CPE coverage.
  • Clear Definitions: Progressive's website offers transparent guidance on what constitutes a "custom part," helping you understand exactly what is and isn't covered under the endorsement.

Pros & Cons of Progressive Insurance

Pros Cons
✅ Excellent for daily-driven cars with moderate mods ❌ CPE coverage limits may be too low for extensive builds
✅ Simple to add CPE coverage via online quote ❌ May decline coverage for highly modified or high-risk vehicles
✅ Transparent information on what's covered ❌ Not an "agreed value" policy; claims are based on actual cash value
✅ One policy can cover both your car and its mods ❌ Lacks the deep specialty expertise of a dedicated classic insurer

Pro Tip: Before finalizing a policy with Progressive, have a spreadsheet of your modifications and their costs ready. During the quote process, be upfront about your upgrades to ensure the CPE coverage limit you select is sufficient to cover them in case of a loss.

For vehicles with modifications exceeding the standard CPE limits, it might be necessary to get a professional valuation. An exotic and custom car appraisal can provide the documentation needed to secure adequate coverage, whether with Progressive or a more specialized carrier.

Website: https://www.progressive.com/answers/insurance-for-modified-cars/

6. American Modern Insurance Group

American Modern Insurance Group offers a robust national collector car program that is a fantastic find for owners seeking the best insurance for modified cars, particularly classics and resto-mods. While not always a household name directly with consumers, American Modern is a major player behind the scenes, powering insurance products offered through a vast network of independent agents and partner programs. Their strength lies in providing specialized policies with the key features that custom car owners need most.

Like other specialty insurers, American Modern focuses on "agreed value" total loss settlements. This ensures the full value of your modifications is locked in from day one, protecting your investment from depreciation. Their platform is primarily accessed through agents, who are equipped to handle the detailed process of documenting and valuing a modified vehicle, making it a solid choice for those who prefer expert guidance over a purely digital experience.

A classic modified muscle car insured by American Modern

Key Features and Unique Offerings

American Modern's collector programs are built around flexibility and comprehensive protection, recognizing that not every enthusiast uses their car the same way. Their policies are designed to accommodate the hobbyist lifestyle.

  • Agreed Value Settlement: Your vehicle's value, including all custom parts and labor, is agreed upon when your policy begins. In the event of a covered total loss, you receive that full amount, with no surprise depreciation deductions.
  • Flexible Mileage Plans: They offer multiple mileage options, from very limited plans for show cars to more generous or even unlimited mileage tiers for owners who enjoy driving their modified vehicles more frequently.
  • Built-In Extra Coverages: Many policies automatically include valuable extras like spare parts coverage (often up to $2,000), towing and labor, and trip interruption coverage, adding significant value.
  • Agent-Based Expertise: Working through an appointed agent means you get a professional to help you properly document your build and find the right coverage combination for your specific needs.

Pros & Cons of American Modern Insurance

Pros Cons
✅ Agreed value coverage protects your investment ❌ Primarily accessed through agents, not a direct-to-consumer website
✅ Flexible mileage plans to suit different usage levels ❌ Hobby and garaging requirements make it unsuitable for daily driven modified cars
✅ Valuable built-in extras like spare parts coverage ❌ May have a less brand-focused community feel than enthusiast-centric insurers
✅ Transparent discount options (car clubs, anti-theft) ❌ Online quoting and policy management tools can be limited

Pro Tip: When looking for an agent that offers American Modern policies, seek out one who specializes in classic or collector car insurance. They will be far more knowledgeable about the unique requirements of valuing a modified vehicle compared to a generalist agent.

The agent-driven model is a key differentiator. It provides a layer of professional assistance that can be invaluable for owners with complex or high-value builds who want to ensure their documentation and valuation are submitted correctly the first time.

Website: https://blog.amig.com/insurance/collector-car/collector-car-details/

7. Safeco

Safeco, a Liberty Mutual company, offers a path for owners who prefer the guidance of a local agent while securing coverage for their collector or modified vehicles. Unlike online-only specialty insurers, Safeco leverages its vast nationwide network of independent agents, providing a more traditional, hands-on approach to finding the best insurance for modified cars. This model is ideal for individuals who want to discuss their vehicle's specific modifications and coverage needs with a professional in person or over the phone.

While Safeco is a major national carrier, it offers a dedicated classic car insurance product that can accommodate certain types of modified vehicles. The process typically starts on their website, where you can use their agent locator to find a local expert. This agent then acts as your guide, helping you navigate the underwriting requirements and determine if your specific build qualifies for their "agreed value" coverage, which is essential for protecting your investment.

Key Features and Unique Offerings

Safeco's strength lies in its blend of big-carrier resources and localized agent service. Their classic car policy is designed for more than just stock vehicles, with features that appeal to the hobbyist.

  • Agreed Value Coverage: Similar to specialty insurers, Safeco offers agreed value policies through its classic car program. This means you and the company agree on your car's value, including modifications, at the start of the policy, ensuring a predictable payout in a total loss.
  • Nationwide Agent Network: The primary differentiator is access to thousands of local agents. This provides a personal touch, allowing you to build a relationship with a professional who understands your car and can advocate for you.
  • Flexible Usage: Safeco's classic car policies are designed for pleasure use, which includes driving to car shows, club events, and occasional cruises. The specific mileage limitations can be discussed with your agent.
  • Bundling Discounts: As a large insurer, Safeco offers significant opportunities to save money by bundling your classic car policy with your home, daily driver, or other insurance products.

Pros & Cons of Safeco Insurance

Pros Cons
✅ Nationwide agent network for hands-on service ❌ Modification acceptance varies by agent and state
✅ Stability and discounts of a major national carrier ❌ Quotes and binding usually require agent interaction
✅ Agreed value coverage available for qualified vehicles ❌ Not a specialty insurer; may be less flexible for extreme builds
✅ Bundling opportunities can lead to significant savings ❌ Less emphasis on owner-centric claims like DIY repairs

Pro Tip: Before contacting a Safeco agent, have your modification list, receipts, and photos organized. Ask the agent directly about their experience insuring modified vehicles and their process for establishing an agreed value. Their initial response will tell you a lot about whether they are the right fit for your needs.

Safeco is an excellent choice for owners of mildly modified classics, resto-mods, or collector cars who value the stability and discount potential of a large carrier and prefer a personal relationship with a local agent.

Website: https://www.safeco.com/products/classic-car-insurance

Top 7 Modified-Car Insurance Comparison

Provider Implementation complexity 🔄 Resource requirements ⚡ Expected outcomes 📊 Ideal use cases 💡 Key advantages ⭐
Hagerty Moderate — specialty endorsements and U/C options require valuation/usage details Moderate — agreed-value appraisals, photos, garaging info High ⭐⭐⭐ — agreed/guaranteed value, U/C increases, owner-friendly claims Collectors, resto-mods, hot rods, vehicles-under-construction (non‑daily) Deep collector expertise; flexible DIY repair & U/C endorsements
Grundy Insurance Moderate — MVP bundles and endorsements often handled via specialty underwriting Moderate — valuation, usage limits, possible agent involvement High ⭐⭐⭐ — 100% agreed-value settlements; replacement endorsements available Multi-vehicle collectors, exotics, modified classics Longstanding specialty carrier; broad vehicle acceptance; replacement options
American Collectors Insurance Moderate — online quoting fast but binding may need full premium/payment Moderate — restoration/in-shop details, mileage tiers, spare parts tracking High ⭐⭐⭐ — agreed value, restoration cover, inflation guard Restorations, show vehicles, modified enthusiasts needing quick quotes Fast online quoting; restoration and spare-parts features; flexible mileage
Heacock Classic Moderate–High — agent or specialist contact common for tailored policies Low–Moderate — spare parts included; specialist evaluation during restoration High ⭐⭐⭐ — modification-friendly wording and spare-parts cover Muscle cars, hot rods, active restorations and show use Spare-parts inclusion; collector specialist support; wide state availability
Progressive Low — CPE endorsement added online with clear guidance Low — simple CPE limits and documentation; fast online binding Medium ⭐⭐ — protects modest aftermarket parts (typical limits ~$5k) Daily-driven cars with modest cosmetic/performance mods Practical for street-driven mods; fully online and transparent
American Modern Insurance Group Moderate–High — agent/partner program setup and appointed-agent sales Moderate — mileage plans, spare parts, towing info routed via agents High ⭐⭐⭐ — agreed-value settlement, towing, trip interruption Collectors working through agents or programs; modified classics Strong agent network; flexible mileage and collector-focused extras
Safeco Moderate–High — classic/collector options set up via local agents; state variance Low–Moderate — agent-assisted documentation; discounts via agent channels Medium ⭐⭐ — classic product with variable agreed-value/mod acceptance Customers preferring local agent service and big-carrier stability Nationwide agent network; major-carrier backing and local support

Secure Your Investment: Take Control of Your Modified Car's Valuation

Navigating the world of insurance for a modified car can feel like driving through a dense fog. Standard policies often fail to see the true value of your vehicle, leaving your hard-earned investment dangerously exposed. As we've explored, finding the best insurance for modified cars isn't just about picking a name; it's about a strategic approach to valuation, documentation, and policy selection that ensures you're fully protected.

The journey starts with choosing the right partner. For dedicated classic, collector, or show cars, specialists like Hagerty, Grundy, and American Collectors Insurance offer the gold standard: Agreed Value policies. This upfront valuation locks in your car's worth, eliminating guesswork and lowball offers during a total loss claim. For modified daily drivers, insurers like Progressive and Safeco provide crucial endorsements like Custom Parts and Equipment (CPE) coverage, but you must be diligent in declaring the correct coverage limit.

Key Takeaways: Your Protection Checklist

Your responsibility doesn't end after you select a policy. Protecting your modified vehicle requires proactive, ongoing effort. The most critical actions you can take boil down to three core principles:

  • Radical Transparency: Never hide a modification from your insurer. Full disclosure is non-negotiable. An undeclared supercharger or custom interior could be grounds for claim denial, rendering your policy useless when you need it most.
  • Meticulous Documentation: Your build binder is your best defense. Keep every receipt, invoice, and dyno sheet. Take high-resolution photos and videos of your car from every angle, inside and out, and store digital copies in the cloud. This evidence proves the value you've added.
  • Policy Scrutiny: Understand the fine print. Know the difference between an Agreed Value, Stated Value, and Actual Cash Value policy. Confirm your endorsements (CPE, OEM parts, etc.) are active and have adequate limits to cover your upgrades.

Pro Tip: Annually review your policy and documentation. As you add new modifications or as parts appreciate in value, your coverage needs may change. A quick call to your agent can ensure your policy keeps pace with your build.

When Your Best Policy Isn't Enough

Even with the right coverage, a total loss claim can become a contentious battle. The insurer's initial settlement offer is often generated by valuation software that fails to account for the unique nature of a modified vehicle, the quality of craftsmanship, or the current market for similar custom builds. Their first offer is a starting point for negotiation, not the final word.

This is the moment where you must advocate for your vehicle's true worth. Your policy likely contains an "Appraisal Clause" or "Right to Appraisal," a powerful tool that allows you to challenge the insurer's low valuation. By invoking this clause, you can hire a certified, independent auto appraiser who specializes in modified and custom vehicles. Their expert report provides an unbiased, market-correct valuation that forces the insurance carrier to reconsider their position and negotiate in good faith. You are not obligated to accept an unfair settlement.

Choosing the best insurance for modified cars is the foundation of your protection strategy. But knowing how to enforce your rights and challenge a lowball offer is what truly secures your investment. Your passion, time, and money deserve to be respected and fully compensated. Take control of the valuation process, and never settle for less than what your unique creation is truly worth.


If you're facing a total loss and believe your insurer's offer is too low, don't accept it without a fight. The team at Total Loss Northwest specializes in creating certified, independent appraisals for modified, classic, and custom vehicles to ensure you receive a fair settlement. Visit Total Loss Northwest to learn how to invoke your policy's appraisal clause and get the compensation you deserve.

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