If you haven't chatted up your insurance company lately, it's time to give your rep a call. You may be due for a discount, whether because of your age, your exemplary behavior, or the type of car you drive.
Here's a peek at the breaks sometimes offered by major carriers. Grab a magnifying glass to check the specifics of your policy, or just call your insurance carrier to determine your eligibility.
Rewards for your wheels
Among other perks related to the vehicle you drive, you may be eligible for savings if you have:
- A new car, economy car, utility vehicle, or farm vehicle
- Daytime running lights
- ABS brakes
- A passive restraint system (seat belts or air bags)
- An anti-theft device
- Multiple car policies with same insurer
Your maturity quotient
According to your insurance company, you're not just getting older, you're getting better. You'll save with many insurance companies if you're:
- Over 65
- 55 and retired
It's not just a job; it's a discount
Who knew your career wasn't just good for a paycheck? You may get a discount if you're:
- Military
- On emergency deployment
- A member of a partnering organization
- A member of a professional group
- A senior-level federal employee
On your best behavior
Insurance companies reward good behavior. Consider it a behavior modification system for grownups. You may save if you:
- Have good credit
- Are a low-mileage driver
- Have been accident-free for five years
- Have taken a defensive driving course (typically only elective courses, not mandated ones)
- Are a good student (with restrictions)
- Are a resident student
- Regularly use your seat belt
- Take a driver's ed course (for young drivers)
- Carry multiple types of insurance (home and auto) from same carrier
- Renew your policy (or in some cases, if you're bringing "new business")
It's all up to the states
You'll also want to grill your insurance carrier about state-specific benefits. Some states offer qualifying college grads a discount. Others offer a break for those who participate in a traffic reduction driving program.
To obtain a discount from your insurance carrier, you'll want to:
- Research the types of discounts they offer. Often, this information is available online.
- Determine whether any supporting documentation is needed to qualify (e.g., report cards for young drivers).
- Carefully comb through your existing policy to determine what discounts are offered.
- Check and see whether life changes will positively affect your rates. For example, if you've left work to stay at home with the kids, you may qualify for a lower rate, since you won't be commuting in peak traffic hours.
- Don't hesitate to shop around, since insurance rates and discounts may vary widely from company to company.
For more ways to save, see:
