Sales - Money
66 Ways to Save Money: Insurance
Auto Insurance You can save several hundred dollars a year by purchasing auto insurance from a licensed, low-price insurer. Call your state insurance department for a publication showing typical prices
Tuesday, December 19th 2000, 10:54 AM EST
Updated:
Auto Insurance
- You can save several hundred dollars a year by purchasing auto insurance from a licensed, low-price insurer. Call your state insurance department for a publication showing typical prices charged by different companies. Then call at least four of the lowest-priced, licensed insurers to learn what they would charge you for the same coverage.
- Talk to your agent or insurer about raising your deductibles on collision and comprehensive coverages to at least $500 or, if you have an old car, dropping these coverages altogether. Taking these steps can save you hundreds of dollars a year.
- Make certain that your new policy is in effect before dropping your old one.
Homeowner/Renter Insurance
- You can save several hundred dollars a year on homeowner insurance and up to $50 a year on renter insurance by purchasing insurance from a low-price, licensed insurer. Ask your state insurance department for a publication showing typical prices charged by different licensed companies. Then call at least four of the lowest priced insurers to learn what they would charge you. If such a publication is not available, it is even more important to call at least four insurers for price quotes.
- Make certain you purchase enough coverage to replace the house and its contents. "Replacement" on the house means rebuilding to its current condition.
- Make certain your new policy is in effect before dropping your old one.
Life Insurance
- If you want insurance protection only, and not a savings and investment product, buy a term life insurance policy.
- If you want to buy a whole life, universal life, or other cash value policy, plan to hold it for at least 15 years. Canceling these policies after only a few years can more than double your life insurance costs.
- Check your public library for information about the financial soundness of insurance companies and the prices they charge.
(Information provided by Consumer Literacy Consortium)