How to Save on Car Insurance - Tips for Lowering Your Rate

It Pays to Have Choices 

If you are looking for ways to save on your personal auto insurance, consider using an independent insurance agent. Independent insurance agencies work with a variety of insurance carriers, meaning they can give you options. While you may be able to research and gather different rates online, without a careful understanding of plan types and the industry, you could end up comparing plans that offer different coverages. When you work with an insurance agent, you can ask about discounts that may be available that you might not know exist. At Cross Insurance, we work with the nation’s leading carriers as well as regional insurers to give you options. See our list of carriers here.

Save on Auto Rates with Multi-Policy Discounts 

Often, insurance carriers offer discounts for buying multiple policies through them. Reach out to your local insurance agent to see what multi-policy discounts are available for the types of insurance you need. Typically you can combine home and auto, or multiple auto policies to save. Other types of policies you may be able to bundle are motorcycle insurance, boat insurance, and RV insurance. If you are recently married, combining your auto insurance with your spouse’s may get you a lower rate.

Your Job May Get You a Discount 

It may come as a bit of a surprise, but some insurance companies offer discounted rates for certain occupations. If you are a teacher, first responder, or medical professional, some carriers may offer discounted rates for you. Many carriers also offer military discounts for active-duty members as well as retired military members, as well as their immediate family. Discounts can vary, and some carriers may not advertise offers on their website, so asking your insurance agent about potential discounts that may be available to you is a smart choice.

Focus on Your Credit Score 

Depending on what state you live in, your credit score can have a significant impact on your monthly auto insurance rate. Typically, the higher your credit score, the lower your car insurance rate will be. A handful of states ban the use of credit reports as a factor determining insurance rates.

Pay Your Bill in Full 

If you pay your auto insurance premium in full versus monthly payments, your insurance carrier could give you a discount. Some carriers may also offer discounts if you opt to receive and sign your documents online. Discounts can vary, so check with an insurance agent to see what may be available for your situation.

Discounts for Staying with the Same Company 

If you have stayed with the same insurance carrier for more than six months, ask your insurance agent about a continuous coverage insurance discount. Depending on the company, the longer that you have been insured with them, the more you could save.

Home Ownership Discounts 

Owning a home could qualify you for a discount on your auto insurance, even if it is not insured through the same company.

Research Before You Buy 

If you are thinking about purchasing a new vehicle, be proactive and get a rate for what the insurance may run. Vehicles with high list prices generally have higher insurance premiums. Doing some research before hand on what models cost more to insure can save you a significant amount down the road.

Recap 

Working with an independent insurance agent that can compare policies from several carriers is one way to save on your auto insurance. You may qualify for discounts depending on if you pay your bill in full, or have stayed with the same company for more than six months. Being a homeowner or working in certain professions such as teaching can also qualify you for some discounts with certain insurance companies.

Car Insurance Quotes

Comparing multiple car insurance quotes is a great way to save. While many websites may show an average price for an insurance company, what you may pay could be dramatically different depending on the state you live in, your claims history, and the amount of coverage you choose. Requesting a custom quote for your auto insurance is a great place to start when it comes to comparing coverages and saving. Reach out to one of our local offices to start the process today.

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This article is for general informational purposes only and is not to be relied upon or used for any particular purpose. Cross Insurance shall not be held responsible in any way for, and specifically disclaims any liability arising out of or in any way connected to, reliance on or use of any of the information contained in this article. The information contained or referenced in this article is not intended to constitute and should not be considered legal, insurance, accounting or other professional advice, nor shall it serve as a substitute for the recipient obtaining such advice. The views expressed in this article are that of its author and do not necessarily represent the views of Cross Financial Corp. and its subsidiaries and affiliates (“Cross Insurance”) or Cross Insurance’s management or shareholders.