Purchasing insurance can be one of the most headache-causing tasks that any one person can ever do. Unfortunately, it has to be done. Whether you are in the market for life, health, or car insurance, you must always research all options and then, only get the coverage you can afford.
Next time you’re shopping for insurance, approach one of the companies you currently use for another type of insurance to see if they will give you a preferred rate. Your homeowner’s insurance company may give you a significant deal, if you approach them and ask about whether they can offer you a preferred customer auto insurance rate.
If you want insurance companies to deal fairly with you, then you must do the same for them. You might be tempted to pump up your claim or say you lost more than you did, but if you do this, you will add fuel to their concerns about claimant fraud and they are less likely to deal with you in an honest way. It’s the Golden Rule, once again: report your loss fairly and honestly, with all the details needed, and accept what appears to be fair value (if in fact that is what you’re offered).
Small business owners should always make sure that they have small business insurance. It provides you with financial protection against things like natural disasters and power shortages. Things that are unpredictable like that can cause a business to quickly go under if you are not properly covered with the correct insurance.
Your insurance rates are likely set by zip code. If you live near a big city, the closer your zip code to the actual city center, the higher your rates will be. Consider this when looking for a new place to live. Just one zip code away could seriously lower your payment.
Read over insurance policy paperwork several times a year. You might find there are discounts you should have been receiving, inaccuracies in the policy, or that there are extra people you thought had been removed. All of these can cost you extra money that you should not be paying, so pull out that letter and read through it one more time.
Make sure that your pet care insurance policy includes preventative care packages, as well. Paying for things like flea, tick, and heartworm prevention medications can get very expensive. Be positive you have a policy where preventative care is included for your pets, to save yourself both the extra time and money.
Make your insurance premium one of the first payments you make every month. Most polices have language written into them that a missed payment cancels your insurance coverage. This can be especially dangerous as your health or risk status may have changed since you first purchased your insurance. A lapse in coverage will end up meaning higher premium payments so make it a priority.
Bundle your home owner’s or renter’s insurance with your car insurance and you should save on overall costs. Don’t buy insurance “a la carte.” Most major insurance companies will offer significant cost-savings when you bundle different insurance policies under their umbrella. Shop around for the best deals and then make your purchase from one provider.
If you’re planning on switching insurance providers, make sure you open your new policy BEFORE canceling your old one. If you cancel your policy first you could find yourself uninsured at the worst possible time, leaving you uncovered and paying for the situation yourself. Saving money isn’t worth the risk!
Now that you have done your research, it’s time to apply for the coverage you have chosen. Remember, your ultimate goal is to have the best possible insurance you need for the least possible amount out of your pocket. Also, do not forget to enter this into your budget.