5 Simple Ways to Save on Auto Insurance

Finding cheap auto insurance is a priority for most families in America. Fortunately, it is not as hard as you think. A few simple tips can help families to stay safe, and start saving more money each month.

Simple Ways to Save On Auto Insurance

You probably do it with your telephone/internet and cable company, so why not bundle with insurance. Purchasing a car and home insurance policy with the same company can save up to 15 percent on both premiums, for a total combined savings of 30 percent when compared to separate policies. This can add up to big savings. You can tack on a life insurance policy and additional insurance coverage where necessary for even deeper discounts. This gives you more protection for your money.

Use Advertised Discounts

Insurance companies don’t like to be underbid by competitors, so ask your company about common discount offers you may see on television commercials or printed advertisements. For example, ask about a safe driver discount, loyal customer, safe vehicle, secure vehicle, low mileage, and good student discounts for students. A good agent may add in some discounts on their own, but it’s up to the policy holder to ask about eligibility for some discounts. So make sure to ask your agent about any additional offers or special promotions that may be available that will save you money.

Increase Your Deductible

The bottom line of insurance is the higher your deductible is, the cheaper your monthly rates will be. It’s a risk, because it means more money out of your pocket in the case of an accident, but if you calculate the risk and it’s worth it, it could save you up to 40 percent off your monthly bill. Increasing your deductible from $250 to $1,000 means the cost of an accident will be $750 more expensive, but the savings on your rate could make it well worth it.

Pay Upfront if Possible

It generally costs more for customers who live month-to-month and paying the insurance every four weeks than those who pay as much as possible upfront. Extra "convenience" fees are often applied to payments when you split your premium into installments. Even a small monthly fee can add up over the year, so if you can pay for the entire year, or even six months upfront, it’s well worth it.

Shop Around

This may seem like one of the most obvious tip, but many consumers pick an insurance company and stick with them for convenience, even if another company can offer the same service at a better cost. Because life circumstances change all the time, it’s important to review your current policy, and their competitors to be sure you’re getting the best deal.

If you don't compare rates every once in a while you'll never know if you could find cheaper auto insurance. Switching companies every year is not a good idea, because then you’ll never be eligible for significant savings for loyal customers, however, when life circumstances change such as new drivers in the house, or removing older children from your policy, it’s worth it to shop around. Simply being aware of other rates could save you hundreds of dollars.

By Matt Reynolds - Google+

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