Health insurance, life insurance, homeowners insurance, disability insurance, car insurance: there are lots of different types of insurance out there, but understanding what insurance you need is only half the battle. If you’re shopping for insurance, you may not know if you’re getting robbed or if the offer you have on the table is the best there is.
So how can you make sure you’re making the smartest choice and getting the best rate on your insurance?
Use online comparison tools: Calculators embedded into insurance websites can help give you a baseline of where you could save the most money. Use these calculators as a starting point, not necessarily the definitive decision for which insurance company will save you the most money.
Bundle whenever possible: If you already have insurance through one company, you could save money by bundling additional insurance plans with the same company. Your car insurance would happily offer you additional insurance, like renter’s insurance, if it means keeping you as a customer and getting more of your money! Just be sure to ask for a deal when you do decide to call and ask about additional insurance options.
Use a broker: Insurance brokers have the advantage of being able to compare and shop around for insurance policies across multiple companies. A broker likely knows your insurance options better than you do, and using a broker is usually free on your end. Finding an insurance broker is a great way to save time and money, and they may be able to shop around for multiple types of insurance for you.
Ask yourself how much insurance you really need: Your insurance premiums depend on a few factors, including how much coverage you need. If your health insurance plan covers everything from head to toe and you don’t have to pay a dime anytime you walk into a doctor’s office, you’re likely paying a higher premium than with a plan where you pay more out of pocket. Before signing up for any insurance plan, be sure to evaluate exactly how much you need. A plan with a higher deductible or less coverage could still meet your needs while lowering your interest rates.