How to Get the Cheapest Auto Insurance Rate

Automobile insurance is a cost that can really push a family’s budget over the edge if they are not careful.  There is a delicate balance between getting just enough coverage to save money on premiums and getting more coverage than you need and paying high premiums.  Searching for good deals can be time consuming.  There are some easy ways you can save even more money with most insurance companies.  

•    Everyone has seen the advertisements on television that promise the lowest car insurance rates on one website or the ability to compare rates of multiple insurance companies on another.  These options are a safe bet to find low rates, but are not the only way you can save money on premiums while feeling confident about your coverage. 


• Invest in an anti-theft device for your vehicle.  Check with potential insurance policies to find out who gets you the biggest discount to maximize in your investment.


• Insure more than one car at once.  Most insurance companies offer volume discounts, so it is in your best interest to put all your vehicles on one policy.  Check to see which company will offer the largest discount to cover all your vehicles.  It is also easier to handle all your policies with one point of contact. 


• Get yearly policies.  You typically get better rates the longer your policy is active.


• Look into your mileage.  An important question asked by most policies is, “How far do you drive to work each way?”  If you are past their break-off point, you will pay more.  Look into cheaper commuting options, like public transportation. You might save money on gas as well.


• Seek group discounts.  Does your employer or credit union have a group discount with certain insurance companies?  Find out before you make your final decision and you might save more. 


• Set up automatic payments.  Some insurance companies charge extra for mailed payments.  Look into creating an automatic payment and find out how much you might save annually.


• Take courses.  Find out if a defensive driving course will reduce your premium.  Also, look into driver’s education courses for teen drivers.  Not only will they get a discount with most companies once they successfully complete the course, but they will also get discounts for good grades in school. 


• Watch your credit.  It is a sad reality that your credit score has an impact on your auto insurance rates.  If you have good credit, you should ask how this impacts your quote when it is offered to you.


• Think about combining other types of insurance with your vehicle insurance policy.  Many insurers also offer home, renters, life and other types of policies.  You may find you pay less the more policies you have under one insurance company.