Home Insurance

Should I Install a Home Security System?

Not so many years ago, a fail-safe home security system consisted of a good lock on the door, a large family dog, and perhaps a baseball bat propped up in the umbrella stand. Today, most locks can't keep experienced burglars out, fewer people can keep big dogs, and baseball bats provide little protection against well-armed intruders. More and more homeowners--and even apartment dwellers--are investing in home security systems to deter criminals, provide home protection, and give them peace of mind.

If you're wondering whether to install a home security system, then consider the following questions:

What are you trying to protect?

If you live alone with little more than a television and some furniture, and have little concern for your own personal safety (perhaps you have a black belt in karate), then your home security needs may be nil. If, however, you have children and/or other family to protect, you fear for your own personal well-being, and/or you own expensive antiques, art, jewelry, and other valuables, then your need for home security is probably much greater. The importance of what you are trying to protect should weigh heavily in your decision to install a home security system. You want to be able to sleep well at night knowing that both your loved ones and your valuable personal belongings are safe. If you can't do that now, then you may need some form of home security system.

Do you live in a high-crime area?

Another way to analyze your home security needs is to consider the likelihood that you will be the target of criminal activity. If you have lived in a neighborhood for a while, you probably already know whether it is safe to leave your doors unlocked at night, or whether you should barricade every window around the clock. If you live in a high-crime area, your need for home security is greater. If you are new in town, you might want to do a little research to find out about the level of crime where you live. The police station, local library, neighbors, and local real estate agents are all potential sources of information about the level of crime in your neighborhood. Use that information when making your decision.

Is your house a natural target for a burglar?

Even if you live in a low-crime area, be aware that there are certain types of homes that are more prone to burglary than others. For example, ground-level apartments are more likely to be targeted than apartments three or more stories up. Homes surrounded by thick bushes, plants, and trees are favored by prowlers because they offer plenty of places to hide. Old, weak, or cracked doors and windows are easier to break into. A house on a darkened street where the owners are seldom home is a very attractive target. In contrast, if your house has a wide-open lawn on a well-lit street that is posted with "Neighborhood Watch" signs, it is probably not the ideal spot for a burglar to ply his or her trade. Does your home invite or deter crime? The answer will help you make a decision about whether you need a home security system.

Does your homeowners insurance carrier offer discounts for home security systems?

Aside from safety, you may have a financial motive to beef up your home security. Most, if not all, insurers will give you a discount on your homeowners policy premium if you install a home security system. The available discount will vary from one insurer to another. It will also vary depending on what kind of security system you choose. Usually, insurers will give you a 5 percent discount merely for installing dead-bolt locks. A simple burglar alarm is likely to get you yet another 5 percent. If you decide to go with a more sophisticated home security system, complete with monitoring services, then you can expect a discount of up to 20 percent. (In addition to discounts for security devices, you can get discounts for installing safety devices such as smoke detectors or sprinkler systems.) Check with your insurance agent to make sure you're currently receiving any discounts you qualify for, and to see if you can save any more on premiums by installing additional security equipment.

Can you afford a system?

The price of a security system depends largely upon how sophisticated the system is. A typical higher tech solution is a full-perimeter system, which usually includes a series of sensors that, when armed, detect when a door or window is opened, broken, or tampered with. These systems typically operate on the principal that whenever one of the detectors is tripped, an alarm of some sort will sound. It may be a horn, bell, or beep and may be accompanied by flashing lights. If the system includes off-site monitoring, local police will be notified. Additionally, there are a host of other systems that can protect you if an intruder bypasses your perimeter system and succeeds in entering your home. Floor sensors can detect an intruder by the weight of his or her footsteps. Motion detectors sense any significant movements within their range.

The technology that goes into many modern systems is truly amazing, and if cost is not an object, very sophisticated systems are available. But don't let money discourage you until you have shopped around. There are many security systems to choose from, in a wide range of prices. Whatever you are trying to protect, you should be able to find something within your budget that will help you sleep better at night. Consult your local yellow pages, the Internet, or community newspapers for security system professionals and dealers.

Is there anything you can do to minimize the need for a home security system?

There may be steps you can take to minimize your need for a high-tech home security system. If you want to make your home safer and can settle for low tech, there are a number of things you can do.

• In addition to installing dead-bolt locks, replace old, cracked, or hollow doors with doors made of metal or solid hard wood.
• Don't rely on a slide chain to protect you if you are opening a door to see who's knocking. Install a wide-angle peephole device in the door.
• Make sure your sliding glass doors have keyed locks and cannot be lifted out of their frames from the outside. A pole or rod cut to the proper length and laid in the track of the door can prevent it from being slid open, even if the locks are compromised.
• Install removable pins, nails, and/or rods to prevent windows from being opened, and replace old or cracked windows and panes.
• Cut back bushes and trees that surround your house and windows.

Finally, try to create the illusion that you are well protected. Whether or not you have a home security system, purchase adhesive labels that say you do, and affix them to every door and window. Post a "Beware of Dog" sign, whether you have one or not. The illusion that you are well protected may deter a would-be burglar. If you are going to be away from your home, purchase an inexpensive timer that turns a lamp or two on at dusk, and off again at bedtime. It may create the illusion that someone is at home and deter a burglar who is waiting to make his or her move when the home is vacant.

Hurricanes: Are You Protected?

Hurricanes can wreak tremendous damage, devastation and death on a community. If a hurricane warning is issued, homeowners can board-up their houses and try to minimize the damage. But what if a storm damages their home regardless?

The most common homeowners policy - called a homeowners-3 policy or HO-3 - covers damage caused by a hurricane except for exclusions specifically outlined in the policy. For example, damage caused by hurricane flooding is usually not covered. Since policies vary, Insurance.com suggests homeowners review their policies before a storm hits to determine what would be covered.

For anyone whose home may be damaged by a hurricane, Insurance.com offers the following tips to help get back on their feet.

Secure the building with temporary repairs - Fix whatever is needed to make the home habitable and prevent further damage. Be careful not to invest in extensive repairs at this time, as an adjuster must appraise the damage first. Save any receipts so that your insurance company can reimburse you later.

Call your insurance agent to report the loss - Get any information you may need from your agent at this time. If the disaster is widespread, keep in mind that the agent may be very busy. Be patient.

Save receipts - If temporary living arrangements are needed, be sure to save receipts for living expenses, such as food, temporary housing costs, storage, and furniture rentals. Your insurance company should advance you the money for these costs.

Make a list of the damaged property - Try to include makes, models, and serial numbers. Take pictures of the damaged items, if possible. Organize old bills and receipts, if they are available, to establish value and age. Work from memory, if necessary. Don't throw anything away until the adjuster has a chance to inspect and appraise it.

Identify structural damage - Don't forget the garage, sheds, and pool. Look for cracks and missing shingles or roof tiles. You may want to hire a licensed engineer to identify damage you can't see. Have an electrician inspect the electrical system and a plumber review the plumbing system (most policies cover these inspections). Get bids for the repair work.

Have an adjuster appraise the damage - Your insurance agent should arrange this, and there should be no charge. Or, you can hire a public adjuster for a fee. When your adjuster comes, ask for a complete inspection and appraisal. If it can't be completed at one time, arrange for a second look. Be sure to identify all damaged areas.

Fill out the forms - Complete the "proof of loss" forms, which will be sent to you by your insurance company. Return them as soon as possible and keep copies of all forms you send back. Send copies of lists and other documents as needed to prove your losses, making sure to keep the originals.

Thinking About Remodeling?

You may be looking for ways to improve your home. Perhaps you want to upgrade your heating system or replace a leaky roof. Or add on that sunroom you’ve always wanted. Before you get started, however, you'll want to know how that remodeling project can affect your insurance needs.

Update your homeowners insurance

Whether you're updating your kitchen or adding on another room, a remodeling project will likely add value to your home. As a result, you'll want to check the property coverage limits on your homeowners policy to make sure that they reflect any changes you make to your home, no matter how small or large the improvements may be.

And if you're adding on to your house, you'll want the addition specifically mentioned in your policy. If it's not, your insurance company may not provide coverage for damages that occur to the new room.

If you hire someone to do the remodeling . . .

If you hire someone to do the remodeling, you'll want to make sure that he or she is properly insured. Any contractor that you hire should have a certificate of coverage for both workers' compensation and contractor's liability insurance.

Workers' compensation coverage protects you from liability claims that can result from a contractor (or his or her employees) getting hurt on the job. Contractor's liability insurance provides coverage for damages to your property caused by the contractor during remodeling.

If you hire a general contractor who is planning on handing off some of the work to a subcontractor (or if you plan on acting as a general contractor yourself), you'll also want to get a copy of the subcontractor's proof of insurance.

For the do-it-yourself remodeling project . . .

Before jumping into a home improvement project, make sure that you're prepared in case an accident occurs. If someone helping you on a remodeling project is hurt, his or her injuries will be covered under the liability portion of your homeowners policy. You may also want to look into a personal umbrella liability policy, which provides coverage above and beyond your regular homeowners insurance and is especially important if you have significant assets that you need to protect.

Other tips

• Some additional remodeling tips:
• Before you get started, make sure that your remodeling project meets local building codes--otherwise, damages may not be covered by insurance
• Check with your local Better Business Bureau to find out if any complaints have been filed against any contractor you are hiring, and ask to see the contractor's license
• Get copies of the contractor's insurance coverage--have the insurance agency or company send the certificate directly to you
• Check your homeowners policy (or your contractor's insurance policy) to make sure that building materials and other uninstalled items (e.g., carpet, tile, cabinets) stored on your property are covered against theft and vandalism
• Keep your insurance agent up-to-date about any improvements to your home--he or she can help make sure that you are adequately covered at all times

Insuring Your Wedding Ring

It's more than just a fashion statement. A wedding ring is a symbol of everlasting love and commitment. So it goes without saying that insurance is probably not the first thing that comes to mind when you glance down at the wedding ring on your finger. But while insurance can never replace the sentimental value of a wedding ring, it can give you some peace of mind in knowing that it would be covered if something ever happened to it.

Making sure you have proper coverage

Your homeowners/renters insurance policy won't cover your wedding ring if it is lost. However, it will probably cover your wedding ring to some extent if it is stolen. Keep in mind that you'll need to check your policy, since a coverage limit may apply for certain types of personal property (in this case, your ring). If you want to make sure that your wedding ring is covered for loss, or if the value of your wedding ring exceeds the coverage limits on your homeowners/renters insurance policy, you may want to look into purchasing either a floater or a stand-alone policy.

A floater provides you with a specific amount of coverage for your ring based on its appraised value. With a floater, the insurance company has the option of paying the appraised amount or replacing the ring. Keep in mind that more often than not, your insurer will replace the ring.

A stand-alone policy is a type of insurance that is specially designed to protect valuable items. If you purchase a floater or stand-alone policy, however, your insurance company will probably require you to have your ring appraised by a certified jeweler.

Finally, while you're at it, now may be a good time to review the adequacy of your insurance coverage for all of your valuable items (e.g., your engagement ring, china, silver, or crystal). If you need help finding out if your valuables are properly insured, contact your insurance agent or insurance company for more information.

Keeping your ring safe

• Have a jeweler periodically check your ring for loose prongs, worn mountings, etc.
• Whenever you take off your ring, always put it in the same place. That way, you won't ever forget where you put it!
• If you remove your ring when you wash your hands, be careful not to leave it by the sink where it can accidentally fall down the drain.
• Be careful while cleaning or doing household chores. Harsh chemicals can damage precious stones and metals, and a rough blow can easily dislodge a stone from its setting.
• Be careful not to lose your ring when you go for a swim, especially if your fingers are slippery from tanning lotion or sunscreen.

health insurance

College Student Health Plans

By the time your children toss their high school graduation caps into the air, they'll probably have already secured the college they will attend, their dorm room, and have their freshman year courses all picked out…But is their health insurance as securely in place as the rest of these issues?

Many times, a parent's medical plan will cover their children until they're 24 years old. If your health insurance plan does not cover college students, it would be beneficial to look into what college health plans are offered at your child's university.

College health insurance plans may be subsidized by tuition at some schools, though not subsidized by the student's spouses or dependents, and may ultimately save parents money. College health insurance plans are not free, and the benefits may vary from college to college. Health insurance companies meet with committees from different schools to design a plan, specifically tailored to that school's students. At times, the health insurance plans may limit preventative care, but free services may be offered at the health center.

On the average, there's no charge for office visits, but students may be charged for lab work, x-rays, physical therapy, prescriptions, and procedures such as treatment for a wound. Other services that may be covered include mental health, well-child care, newborn and infant care, routine pap and pelvic exams, routine AIDS/STD testing, as well as cholesterol screenings. Typically, benefits will pay 100% for covered services at the college health center, but for coverage outside, a deductible may be required and coverage could drop to 70%.

It should be noted that premiums and benefits vary from college to college, due to state laws and marketing factors.

Pre-existing conditions can create problems
In some states, health insurance companies can exclude pre-existing conditions from treatment. This is called "blanket disability." For example, under this law, health insurance companies won't cover asthma or any other pre-existing conditions that your college student may have. This is possible even if the state won't allow the exclusion on "group disability" products.

Many HMOs require referrals for visits to out-of-network providers. If your child chooses a college out of state, and you want them to get prompt medical care without having to call home for a physician's referral, it would be a good idea to consider the college health plan offered by their school.

Things to consider when evaluating a college health insurance policy Several factors can make a crucial difference in timely care. Be sure to find out:

• Can the student use any provider, or is the plan an HMO?
• Is prior approval required for emergency room visits?
• In the event of an emergency, what steps need to be taken?
• If the student is on vacation, what kind of coverage do they have?
• If the student is not enrolled in classes (during summer or winter break) do they still have health insurance coverage?
• Are the most efficient treatment facilities at the college easily accessible?
• What are the low-cost or free services that are offered through the campus health clinic?
• Are any pre-existing conditions included?

If you are interested in getting a health insurance quote for your college bound student, log on to Insurance.com. Here you will be able to evaluate multiple rates from best-in-class health insurance providers - helping find the best health insurance coverage for your freshman.

Long-Term Care: Choices and Options

As you grow older, you may be concerned about your housing options. Will you be able to take care of the family home, mow the grass, and rake the leaves? Will you be able to take care of your own personal needs, cook your meals, and bathe yourself? If you think you might need long-term personal care in the future, now's the time to consider your options.

In-home Care
If you need personal or health-care assistance but want to remain as independent as possible, you might consider in-home care as an alternative to nursing homes or other facilities. In-home care may include health care (nursing services), household help (homemaker services), and personal care (companion or caretaker services). You can obtain these services by hiring private individuals or contracting with a home health agency, such as the local Visiting Nurse Association. Such agencies, if they are certified, comply with Medicare and Medicaid regulations.

Continuing care retirement communities
A form of assisted living, continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) are also known as life care communities. They offer you housing, meals, social activities, and health care ranging from minimal personal assistance to skilled nursing care. Such communities may be ideal for you if you are in good health but are worried that you may need such care in the future.

In exchange for a one-time entrance fee (which can range from $50,000 to over $300,000) and a monthly maintenance fee ($800 to over $4,000), you're guaranteed that the CCRC will provide you with housing and nursing home care for the rest of your life. Depending on your contract with the facility, the CCRC may keep your entrance fee and then assign your apartment to someone else when you die.

Make sure the CCRC offers you the level of health-care coverage that you feel you may need, and find out if the cost of that coverage is included in your basic contract or is an additional expense. You should also find out how much say you have in decisions such as determining when you must leave your apartment and move into the nursing home portion of the facility.

If you choose a CCRC as a long-term care option, be sure to read the fine print of the contract. Make sure you understand the entrance and maintenance fee requirements. You'll also want to be aware of any additional requirements that the contract might impose on you. In some cases, you may have to purchase additional insurance to cover your short-term or long-term health-care costs. Because this is a long-term commitment, you need to check the financial stability of the facility and the company that operates it. For assistance, contact the Continuing Care Accreditation Commission.

Nursing homes
Generally speaking, nursing homes take care of you when you cannot care for yourself. Such care may be short-term while you recover from an illness or injury, or long-term because either physical or mental incapacitation makes it impossible for you to care for yourself. Nursing homes offer round-the-clock medical care. This care may be:

• Skilled nursing care, which is ordered by a doctor and provided by qualified personnel such as registered nurses or professional therapists. Such care is designed to treat a medical condition from which you're expected to recover.
• Intermediate care or nursing and rehabilitative assistance provided as you need it by qualified medical personnel under a doctor's supervision.
• Custodial care or assistance with personal needs such as bathing, eating, or dressing. Such care is performed under a doctor's supervision but is provided by personnel without professional medical training.

If you're thinking of entering a nursing home, you'll have many factors to consider. If you'll need medical care (or think you might), find out if the nursing home provides the level of care you'll need. Beyond that, consider whether the facility itself is clean and well maintained, the environment is one that stimulates you, and the staff members are people whom you trust and enjoy. Take a family member or friend with you to visit the nursing home and ask for his or her honest opinion. If a nursing home is to be your home, you want it to be a place where you can feel at home. For more assistance with this search, contact your state department of elder services.

Paying for it
The choice you make from among these options may depend in part on what you can afford. Nursing homes typically charge a fixed daily rate, and the cost can vary widely, depending on the care you receive and the geographic location of the facility. You can pay the bill with private funds, the proceeds from long-term care insurance, or (if you're eligible) government assistance from Medicaid.

In most cases, you'll have to pay for a CCRC or other assisted-living option, either with your own funds or with the proceeds of a long-term care insurance policy. Medicare covers only your health-care-related expenses, and only at facilities licensed to provide medical care.

Under certain conditions, Medicare covers short-term in-home health care that's medically necessary. Most long-term care insurance policies now also cover in-home care. In many cases, you might elect to pay for in-home health care with your own funds; be aware that you may be able to deduct the expense on your tax returns.

Although long-term care isn't a topic most people are eager to consider, don't put off doing so until the last moment. The longer you wait to make a plan, the more likely you won't be able to afford one.

Why You Need Disability Insurance

Typically, people buy property and casualty insurance to protect their possessions (houses, cars, and furniture) and life insurance to provide income for their survivors. However, many people don't think about protecting their income with disability insurance. But how well could you live if you weren't able to work? Disability is an unpredictable event, and if you become disabled, your ability to make a living could be restricted. Although you may have enough money in the bank to meet your short-term needs, what would happen if you were unable to work for months, or even years? The real value of disability insurance lies in its ability to protect you over the long haul.

A look at the odds
Statistically, your risk of being disabled is great. In a given year, the following events occur with the following frequency:

Event	Frequency
Home fire	1 out of every 88 homes
Serious auto accident	1 out of every 70 autos
Death	1 out of every 106 people
Disability	1 out of every 8 people

A further look at disability statistics reveals the following:

• A 30-year-old man has a one in five chance of suffering a long-term disability before his planned retirement.
• A 30-year-old woman has a one in three chance of suffering a long-term disability before her planned retirement.
• Roughly 50 percent of people who suffer disabilities lasting longer than six months remain disabled after five years.
• Heart disease and back problems are the two most common causes of disability.
• More people lose their homes through disability than through fire or death.
• One in seven employees will be disabled for five years or more before retirement

As these statistics show, your chances of being disabled for longer than three months are much greater than your chances of dying prematurely. One reason for this is that medicine has found ways of treating many illnesses and injuries that previously would have been fatal. Although this is good news, it increases your need to protect your income with disability insurance.

Of course, statistics can be misleading. You might never become disabled, especially if you're healthy and work in a low-risk occupation. But then again, how many people do you know who have had cancer or have suffered a heart attack? How many of your friends and family members have been in car accidents or have had back problems? Illness, as well as injury, is disabling. If you were hurt or got sick, how would you support yourself or your family?

What would happen if you became disabled?
What would happen if you suffered an injury or illness and couldn't work for days, months, or even years? If you're single, you may have no other means of support. If you're married, you may be able to rely on your spouse for income, but you probably also have many financial obligations, such as supporting your children and paying your mortgage. Could your spouse really support you and your family? In addition, remember that you don't have to be working in a hazardous occupation to need disability insurance; accidents happen not only on the job but also at home, and illness can strike anyone. For these reasons, everyone who works and earns a living should consider purchasing disability insurance.

But isn't disability coverage through an employer or the government enough?
You might think that you are adequately insured against disability because you have coverage through your employer or through government programs such as Social Security and workers' compensation. However, only 50 percent of employers cover short-term disability, and only 40 percent cover long-term disability. Government programs may pay you benefits, but only if you meet a strict definition of disability. Here's an idea of the benefits you may already have, as well as their limitations:

• Social Security
  Although you shouldn't overlook the disability benefits you may be eligible to receive from Social Security, you shouldn't rely on them either. Social Security denies more than 50 percent of the claims submitted, in part due to its strict definition of disability. Even if you are deemed eligible for benefits, you still won't begin receiving them until at least six months after you become disabled because Social Security imposes a waiting period. In addition, your benefit may replace only a fraction of your pre-disability income.
  
• Workers' compensation
  If you're injured at work or get sick from job-related causes, you may receive some disability benefits from workers' compensation insurance. How much you receive depends on the state you live in. However, when you review your disability insurance needs, remember that workers' compensation only pays benefits if your disability is work-related, so it offers only limited disability protection. Some states also cover only the diseases or disabilities outlined in that state's workers' compensation laws.
  
• Pension plans
  Some government and private pension plans pay disability benefits. Often these plans pay benefits based on total, permanent disability, or reduce your retirement benefit in proportion to what you have already received for a disability. In addition, remember that these benefits are usually integrated with Social Security or workers' compensation, so your benefit may be less than you expect if you also receive disability income from these government sources.

Short-Term Health Insurance

You've just graduated from college or moved out on your own, and you're no longer covered under your parents' health insurance plan. Or perhaps you've flown the coop on your cubicle job and you're looking for the next big thing. Maybe you've found a new job, but your new employer's group health insurance plan won't kick in until you've been with the company for three months. These are good reasons to look into short-term health insurance if it's available in your state.

What's in a name . . .
As the name implies, short-term health insurance typically offers coverage for 30 to 180 days, although some plans will cover you initially for up to 12 months. If your short-term need runs longer than the coverage, you may be able to renew the plan, but don't count on anything beyond a year.

Most short-term plans will cover you in the event of an accident or a sudden illness. As you might expect with almost any health insurance plan, short-term plans may have benefit limits, and you'll be required to cover an initial deductible and to make co-payments. You'll be allowed to pick your own doctors, hospitals, or other health-care providers. You'll get coverage for inpatient and outpatient services, hospital room (including intensive care unit) and board charges, lab examinations, and X rays. These plans rarely require a physical exam, and coverage often begins as soon as the insurer receives your application and first premium payment. Applications may be mailed in or submitted over the Internet, and payments may be made by check or credit card. Check with the provider for complete information on coverage and the application process.

. . . And what's not
To keep the premiums down, short-term health insurance plans don't offer all of the benefits of permanent plans. Most won't cover treatment of a pre-existing condition (i.e. an illness or injury that has produced signs or symptoms, or for which you've received treatment, in the past five years). In addition, these plans don't cover routine medical exams, preventive care, dental or optical care, or pregnancy and childbirth expenses.

Short-term health insurance policies are exempt from the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. Insurance carriers issuing these policies don't have to guarantee their renewability, and most don't. They also don't have to waive any pre-existing condition limitations for individuals otherwise eligible for those waivers.

But despite their limitations, short-term health insurance plans can help you fill the gaps in your health insurance coverage. And that's just what the doctor ordered!

life insurance

Top 10 Things to Know About Life Insurance

We all recognize the importance of life insurance. After all, we want to make sure that our loved ones are taken care of when we die. But before you run out and purchase a policy, do some research ahead of time. That way, you'll be sure to get the best possible coverage at the right price. Here are some helpful tips to get you started:

1. Shop around
2. Never buy more coverage than you need
3. The healthier you are, the better the rates
4. Buy sooner rather than later
5. Realize the importance of periodically reviewing your coverage
6. You don't necessarily have to pay a commission
7. You may be paying more for monthly premium payments
8. Don't rely solely on the life insurance offered by your employer
9. Tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth
10. Buying more is sometimes cheaper

Shop around
When it comes to life insurance, it pays to shop around because premiums can vary widely. And thanks to the Internet, it's now easier than ever. Try out one of the many insurance websites that can provide you with instant quotes. Make sure the website you shop from takes into consideration the factors in your medical history that can affect the premiums.

Never buy more coverage than you need
The key to purchasing the right amount of life insurance is to have just enough coverage to meet your needs. If you have more life insurance than you need, you'll be paying unnecessarily for higher premiums. On the other hand, it's important not to have too little coverage, resulting in you being underinsured.

The healthier you are, the better the rates
It's true – healthy people get better rates on life insurance. You will be asked to pay a higher rate for anything that shortens your life expectancy (e.g., if you smoke, take medications regularly, are overweight, have a bad driving record).

Buy sooner rather than later
If you've been putting off purchasing life insurance because you don't want to pay the premiums, you may be doing yourself a disservice in the long run. The younger you are when you purchase life insurance, the lower your premiums will be.

Realize the importance of periodically reviewing your coverage
Any life change signals the need for a review of your overall financial plan. When it comes to life insurance coverage, you'll want to make sure that this major life event (e.g., birth of a child, children are grown) won't leave you underinsured or overinsured.

You don't necessarily have to pay a commission
One of the reasons for higher premiums is that most life insurance policies pay commissions to the agent/broker. However, you may be able to purchase a no-load policy through an insurer that sells no-load policies directly to consumers.

You may be paying more for monthly premium payments
You may not realize it, but you may be paying more for your life insurance if you pay your premium in monthly installments. Many insurance companies charge extra fees if you make monthly premium payments instead of paying the annual premium.

Don't rely solely on the life insurance offered by your employer
Many employers offer their employees some sort of group life insurance. But this amount of coverage is usually not enough to adequately meet your life insurance needs. In addition, group life insurance policies are not portable, meaning that if you leave your job, you can't take your life insurance coverage with you.

Tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth
If you're thinking about lying on your insurance application, think again. If your insurance company finds out that you lied about a health-related condition or your lifestyle (e.g., smoking habit), they may be able to terminate your coverage.

Buying more is sometimes cheaper
Life insurance usually costs less per thousand dollars once you get into higher coverage amounts (e.g., $250,000). If the numbers work out, you may be able to pay a lower premium while increasing your coverage.

Love, Marriage, and Insurance

Marriage can be one of the most significant events and times in a person's life, and just as important as it is to love and cherish your spouse, it's equally important to be sure you have enough insurance coverage so that you are both taken care of. That is why it's important to review your life, homeowners and car insurance coverage and see if any adjustments can be made to help you out financially in your new married life.

Life Insurance
Life insurance should be the first thing you consider or review when you become married. Life insurance helps your spouse financially in the event of your death by covering debts you may have incurred, and is equally important to have if you are considering having children or even buying a new home.

Health Insurance
Combining health insurances is another thing that you may want to take a peek at once you are married. If you have a good employer-sponsored health insurance plan, it may be more cost effective to move your spouse over to your plan. Then of course, your spouse may have a better plan than you, and you may need to switch to theirs. It's most important to review the features and benefits of both health insurance plans and compare them to see which will work best for you and your spouse.

Additional Coverage
When it comes to married couples' valuables, it is very important to be sure you have adequate coverage in the event something happens to your engagement or wedding rings. It's important to note that homeowners insurance and renter's insurance, though they do protect the physical structure of your home and its possessions, they don't always cover jewelry. Your homeowners insurance agent or insurance company, will be able to determine what kind of insurance coverage is best for your valuables, and may determine if a rider is needed on your homeowners policy to cover your valuables, such as jewelry.

Another factor you should discuss with your homeowners insurance agent when applying for your rider policy is whether the extension provides "actual cash value" or "replacement cost coverage". Though replacement cost coverage is more expensive than actual cash value, it is better to have it because actual cash value factors in time depreciation for the item. Which means you will only be paid back what the item was worth at the time it was stolen or damaged, not the price you initially paid for it.

Car Insurance
It's important to inform your auto insurance company or agent that you are married, because many auto insurance companies offer discounted rates for couples who have "tied the knot". Also, check to see if they offer any other discounts, such as multi-car or multi-policy-who knows, you may be able to save more than you thought!

If you are interested in getting a life insurance, homeowners insurance or car insurance quote, log on to Insurance.com. Here you will be able to evaluate multiple rates from best-in-class life insurance providers - helping you find the best life, homeowners and car insurance coverage for you and your spouse.

Ways To Save When Buying Life Insurance

When it comes to shopping, savvy shoppers get the most for their money. This stays true not only when shopping for groceries or food, but for life insurance as well. So to help you get the most bang for your buck, Insurance.com has compiled a list of ways you can save the most when you're in the market to buy a life insurance policy.

1. Is term life insurance for you? If most of your goals are short-term and you're not as interested in saving for the long run, term life insurance is for you. Term life insurance typically offers you the most coverage for the least amount of money, and is set up based around spans of time. For example, you may get a term life insurance plan that is set to pay out after five, ten or 20 years.


If your main goal is to save money, and you don't mind paying a higher premium, it would be wise to look into a whole life insurance policy. Whole life policies offer a "cash value" feature that helps you save money each time you make a payment on your premium. However, though you can withdraw funds from the cash value, your death benefit will decrease. If you take out a loan and it exceeds the amount you have already paid for on the premium of your whole life insurance policy, you will receive a tax bill. Also, it's good to note that as time moves on, the cost of insuring you will go up, and your cash value will begin to decrease.


2. No-load policies. To find lower premiums for variable life insurance, be sure to keep an eye out for "no-load" or "low-load" life insurance policies. These policies have fewer added fees, such as agent commission or fees for marketing, which makes a higher percentage of your premium go to your cash value. To find theses policies, check with a financial advisor who doesn't collect commission from life insurance companies, or inquire around. Some insurance agencies even sell these directly to the customer!
3. If you're healthy, stay away from guaranteed issue policies. Guaranteed issue policies, also know as "simplified" or "quick" policies, may sound too good to be true, because they really are. They do not require a medical exam, making them seemingly ideal, but ultimately much riskier for the insurer. If you are healthy, you will get much better rates by buying a life insurance policy that requires a medical test.


However, the problem for those who buy into guaranteed issue policies is that many may end up paying more in premiums than their beneficiaries receive from their death benefits. The National Association of Insurance Commissioner (NAIC) is trying to find a solution or way to put an end to this. Regulation of rates is not something they plan on doing, but a disclosure statement warning consumers is in the works.


4. Check online. When shopping around for any kind of insurance, looking online is a great way to compare prices and see what different companies have to offer. The more information you give, the more accurate your insurance quote will be.
5. Make a change for the better. If you are overweight, are a smoker, have heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes, finding affordable life insurance may be difficult. This is because the better your health is, the easier and more affordable it will be for you to buy life insurance. Insurance companies will issue lower premiums if the policyholder is in good health standing. The less things that may give you a risk of dying sooner, the more affordable your life insurance policy will be. Also, if you do have an outstanding medical condition, you are a smoker or overweight, and you are trying to better your health, be sure to document it. By showing the insurance company your medical files and that you have been trying to improve your health, you may save yourself some money in the long run.


Many life insurance companies have different categories for medical conditions or combinations of medical conditions, when it comes to issuing you a policy. They also have different tests and medical exams you may need to go through before they will issue you a policy. This may have a major impact if you're a smoker. Even if you quit the day you apply, you will still be considered a smoker, because to be completely "nicotine free," you would have had to quit smoking for two to five years prior. Smokers do generally pay at least three times more than nonsmokers for a life insurance policy, so by quitting, you're not just saving money from not buying tobacco, but also by bettering your standing.

Being overweight is another reason you may have a higher life insurance premium. Though you may not be obese, once your weigh reaches a certain level, you become more of a death-risk. So by taking the steps to lose weight and get healthier, you are not only helping yourself live longer and feel better, but also helping to get more affordable life insurance rates.


6. Buy what you need. It's not a good idea to under-buy insurance, nor is it beneficial to over-buy, so when you're in the market for insurance, be sure to evaluate what your exact needs are and go from there. A good way of doing that is in the form of an equation: Short-term needs + long-term needs - resources = how much life insurance you will need.
7. Rider policies are helpful. A rider policy is an extension to an insurance policy that helps you extend you coverage. If your needs change, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a rider policy for additional life insurance-it also doesn't affect your cash value. Be sure to shop around though, you may save more by actually buying a second policy.
8. Buy early. Instead of waiting until there is a real problem with your health, buy life insurance early in life. As you age, the price of your life insurance will increase, so the younger you start, the more you will save. To keep your premium low, you may want to inquire about a "level premium" policy. Which keeps your premium rates the same for a set amount of time.
9. Run your credit report. If there are problems with your credit, you may be denied for an insurance policy or your premiums will sky-rocket because you are considered high-risk. If your credit score is low, the insurance company's main concern is that you will let your policy lapse due to non-payment of premiums. So by rebuilding your credit, you are not only helping that financial aspect of your life, but also the one concerning your insurance.
10. Fractional premiums. Some insurance agencies charge less depending on how you schedule your payments. By paying fractional payments-those are fewer payments over the year-you may pay less over all. For some life insurance companies the same also goes for electronic funds transfer (EFT), which is when they take out the amount of the premium directly from your checking account.
11. Being responsible saves you money. This goes along with making a change for the better. If you are in an expensive rate class due to high cholesterol (for example), but make a point of going to your doctor regularly and establish a history of lowering your cholesterol, your life insurance company may be willing to lower your premium.

If you are interested in finding out more about life insurance, or getting a life insurance quote, log on to Insurance.com. Here you will be able to evaluate multiple rates from best-in-class life insurance providers - helping you find the best life insurance coverage that benefits you, as well as your beneficiaries, while still being within your budget.

Life Insurance Medical Exam

When applying for a life insurance policy, you may be asked to take a medical exam. Generally, if you’re under age 40 and applying for life insurance coverage of less than $100,000, you probably won't have to take a medical exam. However, the older you are, the less life insurance you can buy without a medical exam. Of course, these figures also depend on your health history and the underwriting guidelines of the insurance company you choose.

A typical medical exam may include a basic physical, blood work, and urine tests. Some insurance companies also require EKGs and/or treadmill EKGs (stress tests), especially for large life insurance policies. You'll also have to provide information on your medical history, including the names of doctors you've seen, dates you saw them, and any treatment recommended. A nurse or doctor (often an independent contractor) who is paid by the insurance company will normally conduct the exam.

If you have a medical condition, there's really nothing you can do to hide it. In fact, you shouldn't even try. Insurance companies have access to an amazing amount of medical information through the Medical Information Bureau, so even if you attempt to obscure the facts, there's a good chance an insurance company will find the information it needs. In addition, if the insurance company discovers you have withheld information, it will look at everything else much more closely. And if you died as a result of the illness, your insurance company may opt not to pay your death benefit.

There are a number of simple steps you can take to make sure you get the best possible results at your medical exam:

• Get a good night's sleep the night before the exam
• Fast for eight hours before the exam if possible to ensure the most accurate results
• Don't smoke for at least one hour before the exam
• Avoid caffeine for at least one hour before the exam
• Avoid alcohol for at least eight hours before the exam
• Don't engage in strenuous exercise for 24 hours before the exam
• Limit your consumption of salt and cholesterol for 24 hours before the exam
• Cancel the exam if you get sick – even a minor infection can distort the results

Auto Insurance

Insurance.com's Steps to Take When You're in a Car Accident

If you've been in a car accident, then you know how scary and confusing it can be. It is easy to find yourself

mixed up and unsure of the details you need to protect yourself and your passengers. Your auto insurance company will handle a lot of the logistics out of your control. To help you remain organized and focus on what you can control, the following are steps to take when you're in a car accident.

Car Accident Kit

Just in case the worst ever happens, prepare a car accident kit to keep in your glove box. Your kit should include a pen, a pad of paper, your vehicle's registration, a copy of your auto insurance card, emergency contact numbers and a disposable camera. Also, you should include road flares (available from many auto part stores) or 'light sticks' that can be used at night to warn drivers of the accident. Small reflective road signs are also available that can be placed several hundred feet before and after the accident to make other drivers know they have to slow down or avoid the area.

Stay Calm

Car accidents can happen quickly. That is why it is important to stay calm, collect your thoughts and evaluate the situation at hand. Staying calm will not only help you remember the details of the accident, but it will also help keep all parties involved focused on the accident.

Make Sure No One is Hurt

Check for injuries to yourself, your passengers and the other parties involved. Do not move any injured people; instead call 911 for medical assistance.

Move Your Car

In the case of a minor impact or fender bender, you should pull over into a shoulder, taking your vehicles out of the main stream of traffic. However, if the accident is more serious, do not move any vehicles. Instead, set down flares, warning triangles, light sticks or other such items to alert both oncoming and following traffic. Set these warning signs up both ahead and behind the incident, and if the accident occurred near a bend in the road, set up the warnings on either side of the bend.

Call the Police

No matter how minor of an accident, call 911 to report the incident. If the police are unable to come to the scene, make sure to exchange the following information with all parties involved including;

• Name
• Address
• Phone number
• Auto insurance company name and phone number
• Policy number
• Driver's license number
• License plate number
• Year, make, model and color of car

In addition, make sure to get the names, address, phones and driver's license numbers of all witnesses.

File a Report

In the event that the police are not able to respond to your call, you'll need to go to the nearest police station and file an accident report. This report will also help your auto insurance company during the claims process.

Document the Accident

Use your disposable camera from your car accident kit to photograph the cars involved, the position of the cars and any damage done to the vehicles. If you don't have your camera available, make sure to write down detailed notes of the accident for your auto insurance company.

Insurance.com's Steps to Take When You're in a Car Accident

If you've been in a car accident, then you know how scary and confusing it can be. It is easy to find yourself

mixed up and unsure of the details you need to protect yourself and your passengers. Your auto insurance company will handle a lot of the logistics out of your control. To help you remain organized and focus on what you can control, the following are steps to take when you're in a car accident.

Car Accident Kit

Just in case the worst ever happens, prepare a car accident kit to keep in your glove box. Your kit should include a pen, a pad of paper, your vehicle's registration, a copy of your auto insurance card, emergency contact numbers and a disposable camera. Also, you should include road flares (available from many auto part stores) or 'light sticks' that can be used at night to warn drivers of the accident. Small reflective road signs are also available that can be placed several hundred feet before and after the accident to make other drivers know they have to slow down or avoid the area.

Stay Calm

Car accidents can happen quickly. That is why it is important to stay calm, collect your thoughts and evaluate the situation at hand. Staying calm will not only help you remember the details of the accident, but it will also help keep all parties involved focused on the accident.

Make Sure No One is Hurt

Check for injuries to yourself, your passengers and the other parties involved. Do not move any injured people; instead call 911 for medical assistance.

Move Your Car

In the case of a minor impact or fender bender, you should pull over into a shoulder, taking your vehicles out of the main stream of traffic. However, if the accident is more serious, do not move any vehicles. Instead, set down flares, warning triangles, light sticks or other such items to alert both oncoming and following traffic. Set these warning signs up both ahead and behind the incident, and if the accident occurred near a bend in the road, set up the warnings on either side of the bend.

Call the Police

No matter how minor of an accident, call 911 to report the incident. If the police are unable to come to the scene, make sure to exchange the following information with all parties involved including;

* Name
* Address
* Phone number
* Auto insurance company name and phone number
* Policy number
* Driver's license number
* License plate number
* Year, make, model and color of car

In addition, make sure to get the names, address, phones and driver's license numbers of all witnesses.

File a Report

In the event that the police are not able to respond to your call, you'll need to go to the nearest police station and file an accident report. This report will also help your auto insurance company during the claims process.

Document the Accident

Use your disposable camera from your car accident kit to photograph the cars involved, the position of the cars and any damage done to the vehicles. If you don't have your camera available, make sure to write down detailed notes of the accident for your auto insurance company.

Know What to Say and Not Say

While at the scene, do not tell the other drivers or the police officer that you think the car accident was your fault and don't discuss the specifics of the accident with anyone other than the police officer or your auto insurance company agent. In addition, do not accept any monetary compensation from the other driver; your auto insurance agency will take care of reimbursing you for the damage.

Call Your Auto Insurance Company Immediately

As soon as you can, report the car accident to your auto insurance company. To help expedite the call, make sure to have the following information in front of you,

* Date and time of the car accident
* The direction and speed you and the other drivers were going
* How the car accident occurred
* Name and information of the parties and witnesses involved
* If anyone was injured in the car accident
* Where and what damage was done to your car
* Police report number

Know What Your Car Insurance Policy Covers

Depending on the damage to your car, you may need to rent a car while your vehicle is in the repair shop. If part of your car insurance coverage, your auto insurance company will reimburse you for the use of the rental car. However, if rental coverage is not part of your auto insurance policy, then you will be responsible for the cost of the rental car - a hard lesson to learn after you've been involved in a car accident.

Your best option is to do your homework first and find out if rental coverage is part of your policy and if not, call your auto insurance company and request to have it added. To assist you with your research, Insurance.com offers an auto comparison application that helps you compare the rates of up to 12 auto insurance companies - helping you save time and money on your auto insurance.

The Consequences of Not Having Auto Insurance

When young adults graduate college they have aspirations of starting their first "real world" job, getting their own place and buying a brand new car - one that does not need a screwdriver to start. However, college students are also graduating with much more than just a college degree and a dream, they are graduating with a substantial amount of debt. In fact, many students graduate with an average of $3,262 in credit card debt - 10 percent of that group owing more than $7,000 in credit card charges.

Students forget to factor in other life costs, such as health care, 401K deductions, income taxes, car payments, auto insurance, rent, utility bills, student loans, credit card bills and food expenses into their monthly budget. "After you graduate and land your first job, you do not think about having to pay for all of these expenses," stated a graduate from Ohio University. "Unfortunately, reality sets in pretty fast and you realize you do not have the money to make ends meet - it is a hard lesson to learn!"

College Debt
Why is there so much credit card debt among college students? "Many credit card companies set up kiosks on college campuses offering free pizzas and t-shirts to try and entice students to sign up for a credit card," noted David Roush, CEO of Insurance.com. "The problem is many college students do not have the income or financial knowledge to manage a credit card - a problem that is leading students into a lifetime of financial despair."

In addition to the outrageous credit card bills, students are also graduating with student loans ranging from $10,000 to $52,000 or more. Often students figure they will be able to pay everything off once they get a job and start making "real" money, but that simply is not the case.

Not only are credit card and student loan bills financially crippling to many new graduates, it is also forcing grads to cut back on other necessary expenses, such as auto insurance - one bill you legally cannot drive without! "Driving without auto insurance is illegal in all 50 states, however, many young adults elect to go without auto insurance because they think they cannot afford to have it," stated Roush. "A scary thought when 15.3% of all automobile accidents are caused by drivers between the ages of 20 - 24."

While deciding not to pay for auto insurance may seem like a good idea at the time, graduates are not considering the expense of getting caught without auto insurance or the cost of getting into an automobile accident. "Imagine if you had to pay the medical bills of someone who gets injured in car accident when you are at fault - suddenly paying for car insurance does not seem so bad," says Roush.

The Penalty of Driving Without Auto Insurance
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the cost of driving without auto insurance can vary from state to state, depending on the percentage of drivers who are uninsured in that state. For instance, in Massachusetts residents can be charged anywhere from $500 to $5,000 in fines and receive a one-year jail sentence. In Florida, Louisiana, Connecticut and New Jersey, drivers operating a vehicle without the state required minimum will have their vehicles impounded - which can cost you thousands depending on how long it takes you to get your car out.

To find out the auto insurance state minimum and fines and penalties for driving without insurance in your state, visit the Department of Motor Vehicles' website.

How to Budget For Auto Insurance
As you look for auto insurance, make sure to check if the insurer offers a 6-month or 12-month payment plan to help you manage your auto insurance payments better. In addition, many auto insurance providers offer a variety of discounts, including alumni discounts. So make sure to ask if your college or university is eligible for a discount, because every bit helps when you are first starting out on your own.

To help make researching auto insurance rates easier, Insurance.com offers an auto insurance comparison application. Here, you will be able to evaluate multiple rates from best-in-class insurance providers - helping you find the best auto insurance coverage for your newly graduated budget.
Helping Named Drivers Keep Their Auto Insurance Premiums Down

Many teenagers see their driver's license as a passage of independence from their parents or a chance to head out on the open road with their friends. That is until they find out how much auto insurance is going to cost them - then being on Mom and Dad's policy doesn't seem so embarrassing!

Due to the lack of funds, many teenagers elect to become a named driver on their parent's auto insurance policy. This solution works for a while, but eventually these teens graduate from school, land their first job and purchase their first automobile - only to be faced again with the high cost of auto insurance premiums as a first time policyholder. It's a vicious cycle many young adults just can't seem to avoid.

However, one auto insurance company in England has developed a solution to help named drivers develop a driving history while they are on their parents' or guardians' insurance policy. This new plan allows the named driver to build up a no-claims discount in the event they do not make a claim while on another driver's policy. For instance, under this arrangement a teenager who spends three years as a named driver and does not make a claim could potentially receive up to a 50% discount when they switch over to their own plan. That's a considerable discount when you are just starting out on your own!

Even though this policy is not yet available in the U.S., there are steps young adults can take to help reduce their auto insurance premium, such as:

1. Buying an older car vs. a newer model. Typically older cars cost less to insure verses newer, faster models
2. Avoid modifying your car. Adding chrome rims and grills, customized murals, Spree wheels (spinner rims), pipes, decked out stereo systems, ground effects and hydraulics will only increase your auto insurance premium, possibly making it more than you can afford.
3. Drop collision coverage on less valuable cars. Multiply your current annual insurance premium by 10. If your vehicle is worth less than that amount, consider dropping the collision and /or comprehensive coverage portion of your policy. Not sure how much your car is worth? Visit the Kelley's Blue Book website to find out.
4. Ask for higher deductibles. Requesting a higher deductible can help lower your auto insurance rate by 15 to 30 percent. However, if you decide to do this, make sure you have enough money set aside in the event you have to make a claim.
5. Take a defensive-driving class. Often, auto insurance companies will offer drivers a 10% discount just for taking a defense-driving course. Check with your local city or town to find a class near you.
6. Combination discounts. Many times insurance companies will give a 10% - 20% discount to customers who insure both their house and car, multiple cars or take out renters' insurance and car insurance with the same company. It's a potential savings worth inquiring about.
7. Maintain a good credit history. Numerous insurance companies base your insurance premium on your credit score. So the better your credit score, the lower your insurance rate will be!
8. Low mileage discount. Some insurance companies offer discounts to motorists that drive lower than the average number of miles allotted per year. So if you work close to home or take the train or bus to work each day you might be eligible for this discount.
9. Group insurance discounts. Membership has its rewards! If you belong to an alumni group, club or organization then you might be eligible for a group discount just for being a member. Check with your organization or ask your insurance company if your club is eligible.
10. Shop around. Prices vary from insurance company to insurance company. So make sure to do your research first before you make your final decision. For assistance, logon to Insurance.com's auto quote comparison module. Here you will be able to compare the quotes of up to 12 insurance providers, helping you save time and most importantly money on your auto insurance rate.

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Insurance Articles

* Insurance.com's Steps to Take When You're in a Car Accident
* The Consequences of Not Having Auto Insurance
* Helping Named Drivers Keep Their Auto Insurance Premiums Down

More Auto Insurance Articles
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Know What to Say and Not Say

While at the scene, do not tell the other drivers or the police officer that you think the car accident was your fault and don't discuss the specifics of the accident with anyone other than the police officer or your auto insurance company agent. In addition, do not accept any monetary compensation from the other driver; your auto insurance agency will take care of reimbursing you for the damage.

Call Your Auto Insurance Company Immediately

As soon as you can, report the car accident to your auto insurance company. To help expedite the call, make sure to have the following information in front of you,

• Date and time of the car accident
• The direction and speed you and the other drivers were going
• How the car accident occurred
• Name and information of the parties and witnesses involved
• If anyone was injured in the car accident
• Where and what damage was done to your car
• Police report number

Know What Your Car Insurance Policy Covers

Depending on the damage to your car, you may need to rent a car while your vehicle is in the repair shop. If part of your car insurance coverage, your auto insurance company will reimburse you for the use of the rental car. However, if rental coverage is not part of your auto insurance policy, then you will be responsible for the cost of the rental car - a hard lesson to learn after you've been involved in a car accident.

Your best option is to do your homework first and find out if rental coverage is part of your policy and if not, call your auto insurance company and request to have it added. To assist you with your research, Insurance.com offers an auto comparison application that helps you compare the rates of up to 12 auto insurance companies - helping you save time and money on your auto insurance.

The Consequences of Not Having Auto Insurance

When young adults graduate college they have aspirations of starting their first "real world" job, getting their own place and buying a brand new car - one that does not need a screwdriver to start. However, college students are also graduating with much more than just a college degree and a dream, they are graduating with a substantial amount of debt. In fact, many students graduate with an average of $3,262 in credit card debt - 10 percent of that group owing more than $7,000 in credit card charges.

Students forget to factor in other life costs, such as health care, 401K deductions, income taxes, car payments, auto insurance, rent, utility bills, student loans, credit card bills and food expenses into their monthly budget. "After you graduate and land your first job, you do not think about having to pay for all of these expenses," stated a graduate from Ohio University. "Unfortunately, reality sets in pretty fast and you realize you do not have the money to make ends meet - it is a hard lesson to learn!"

College Debt
Why is there so much credit card debt among college students? "Many credit card companies set up kiosks on college campuses offering free pizzas and t-shirts to try and entice students to sign up for a credit card," noted David Roush, CEO of Insurance.com. "The problem is many college students do not have the income or financial knowledge to manage a credit card - a problem that is leading students into a lifetime of financial despair."

In addition to the outrageous credit card bills, students are also graduating with student loans ranging from $10,000 to $52,000 or more. Often students figure they will be able to pay everything off once they get a job and start making "real" money, but that simply is not the case.

Not only are credit card and student loan bills financially crippling to many new graduates, it is also forcing grads to cut back on other necessary expenses, such as auto insurance - one bill you legally cannot drive without! "Driving without auto insurance is illegal in all 50 states, however, many young adults elect to go without auto insurance because they think they cannot afford to have it," stated Roush. "A scary thought when 15.3% of all automobile accidents are caused by drivers between the ages of 20 - 24."

While deciding not to pay for auto insurance may seem like a good idea at the time, graduates are not considering the expense of getting caught without auto insurance or the cost of getting into an automobile accident. "Imagine if you had to pay the medical bills of someone who gets injured in car accident when you are at fault - suddenly paying for car insurance does not seem so bad," says Roush.

The Penalty of Driving Without Auto Insurance
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the cost of driving without auto insurance can vary from state to state, depending on the percentage of drivers who are uninsured in that state. For instance, in Massachusetts residents can be charged anywhere from $500 to $5,000 in fines and receive a one-year jail sentence. In Florida, Louisiana, Connecticut and New Jersey, drivers operating a vehicle without the state required minimum will have their vehicles impounded - which can cost you thousands depending on how long it takes you to get your car out.

To find out the auto insurance state minimum and fines and penalties for driving without insurance in your state, visit the Department of Motor Vehicles' website.

How to Budget For Auto Insurance
As you look for auto insurance, make sure to check if the insurer offers a 6-month or 12-month payment plan to help you manage your auto insurance payments better. In addition, many auto insurance providers offer a variety of discounts, including alumni discounts. So make sure to ask if your college or university is eligible for a discount, because every bit helps when you are first starting out on your own.

To help make researching auto insurance rates easier, Insurance.com offers an auto insurance comparison application. Here, you will be able to evaluate multiple rates from best-in-class insurance providers - helping you find the best auto insurance coverage for your newly graduated budget.

Helping Named Drivers Keep Their Auto Insurance Premiums Down

Many teenagers see their driver's license as a passage of independence from their parents or a chance to head out on the open road with their friends. That is until they find out how much auto insurance is going to cost them - then being on Mom and Dad's policy doesn't seem so embarrassing!

Due to the lack of funds, many teenagers elect to become a named driver on their parent's auto insurance policy. This solution works for a while, but eventually these teens graduate from school, land their first job and purchase their first automobile - only to be faced again with the high cost of auto insurance premiums as a first time policyholder. It's a vicious cycle many young adults just can't seem to avoid.

However, one auto insurance company in England has developed a solution to help named drivers develop a driving history while they are on their parents' or guardians' insurance policy. This new plan allows the named driver to build up a no-claims discount in the event they do not make a claim while on another driver's policy. For instance, under this arrangement a teenager who spends three years as a named driver and does not make a claim could potentially receive up to a 50% discount when they switch over to their own plan. That's a considerable discount when you are just starting out on your own!

Even though this policy is not yet available in the U.S., there are steps young adults can take to help reduce their auto insurance premium, such as:

1. Buying an older car vs. a newer model. Typically older cars cost less to insure verses newer, faster models
2. Avoid modifying your car. Adding chrome rims and grills, customized murals, Spree wheels (spinner rims), pipes, decked out stereo systems, ground effects and hydraulics will only increase your auto insurance premium, possibly making it more than you can afford.
3. Drop collision coverage on less valuable cars. Multiply your current annual insurance premium by 10. If your vehicle is worth less than that amount, consider dropping the collision and /or comprehensive coverage portion of your policy. Not sure how much your car is worth? Visit the Kelley's Blue Book website to find out.
4. Ask for higher deductibles. Requesting a higher deductible can help lower your auto insurance rate by 15 to 30 percent. However, if you decide to do this, make sure you have enough money set aside in the event you have to make a claim.
5. Take a defensive-driving class. Often, auto insurance companies will offer drivers a 10% discount just for taking a defense-driving course. Check with your local city or town to find a class near you.
6. Combination discounts. Many times insurance companies will give a 10% - 20% discount to customers who insure both their house and car, multiple cars or take out renters' insurance and car insurance with the same company. It's a potential savings worth inquiring about.
7. Maintain a good credit history. Numerous insurance companies base your insurance premium on your credit score. So the better your credit score, the lower your insurance rate will be!
8. Low mileage discount. Some insurance companies offer discounts to motorists that drive lower than the average number of miles allotted per year. So if you work close to home or take the train or bus to work each day you might be eligible for this discount.
9. Group insurance discounts. Membership has its rewards! If you belong to an alumni group, club or organization then you might be eligible for a group discount just for being a member. Check with your organization or ask your insurance company if your club is eligible.
10. Shop around. Prices vary from insurance company to insurance company. So make sure to do your research first before you make your final decision. For assistance, logon to Insurance.com's auto quote comparison module. Here you will be able to compare the quotes of up to 12 insurance providers, helping you save time and most importantly money on your auto insurance rate.