10 Ways to Lower Your Auto Insurance Rates
1. Shop around
Since prices do vary from company to company, it’s smart to shop around for the best price. Ask friends and relatives for some recommendations. Most importantly pick a insurance company that takes the time to answer all your questions.
2. Compare costs before you buy a vehicle
Auto insurance premiums are based on the car’s worth, the cost to replace or repair it, and safety records. Make sure to note if the vehicle you are buying has any prior damage, theft, or title issues as those rating factors can impact your rates.
3. Get higher deductibles
By asking for higher deductibles, your insurance premium will go down. For example going from a $500 deductible to $1,000 could save you 40 percent or more.
4. Lower coverage on older vehicles
If your car is worth less than about 10 times the total premium, full coverage might not be worth the additional cost.
5. Bundle your Auto Insurance with home or renters
Consider purchasing home or renters with the same company. Many companies offer a discount for bundling auto and home or auto and renters.
6. Maintain a good credit score
Since most companies use your credit information to determine your insurance rates, it’s important to pay bills on time, and keep balances low to keep your record in good standing.
7. Always ask for what additional discounts are available to you
some companies differ in the auto discounts they offer, so it’s important to ask. For example: one company may offer a low mileage discount, and not offer a discount for a driving course.
8. Take advantage of Auto pay or EFT discounts
Set up automatic payments through your company if you are paying monthly. Not doing so can mean higher rates each month.
9. Pay in Full for 6 months or a year
If you are able to do so, paying in full for 6 months or a year can save $100’s on your auto insurance versus paying monthly.
10. Avoid Auto-Renewal
when you are up for renewal, call your provider and see what they can do to lower your premium by either doing a rewrite or shopping around various carriers for the best price.