What to Do When it’s Renewal Time
What to Do When it’s Renewal Time
Well, it’s that time of the year again. Your insurance policy is up for renewal. Does the thought of renewing your insurance policy overwhelm you? Did your premium take a dramatic increase? If so, you may be considering switching insurance companies, but you aren’t sure whether you should or not.
The first step is deciding how and why you should change insurance companies.
What reason would there be to change insurance companies?
- Changing residence
- A dramatic increase in premium
- Non-renewal
So, what exactly is the process to change your company?
- The best thing about purchasing insurance from an independent agent is that you now have the privilege to shop different companies at your convenience. Most IAs have access to several insurance companies. At the time of renewal, ask your agent to surf the available rates for your specific policy. Have them help you compare rates and coverages to your existing policy. Easy as pie!
- Before making your final decision, ask a few friends who use the insurance company in question what their opinions are. Search for reviews on the internet. That way, you’ll know what to expect–and whether or not to use that company as your insurance provider.
- When working with an independent agent, they’ll be sure that you’ve got all the necessary coverages. It is advised to get the maximum coverage available to ensure maximum protection from a crisis.
- The final step is canceling your current policy. You can do this through a written notification. During renewal, there is no charge to cancel your policy.
What are the cons of switching insurance companies?
- You could be risking losing the relationship you had with your previous insurance company.
- Loyalty discounts are not available for a period of time.
- You may lose your ability to bundle policies if one policy remains with your prior insurer.
Staying with your current insurance company may or may not be worth the increase in premium. Either way, you are able to shop around for better rates, regardless of whether you choose to bind the policy or not. Talk to your independent agent at renewal to get the process of switching carriers going at your convenience.
Do you have questions about your insurance? Find an insurance agent near you with our Agent Finder
Search All Blogs
Read More Insurance Blogs
Why Life Insurance for a Child (or Grandchild) Is a Good Idea
Why is the purchase of a life insurance policy on a child a good decision? There are multiple reasons, including helping to ensure their financial future. Learn more in our blog.
Pet Peeves: Dogs and Liability Insurance
Are you covered from a liability claim should your dog bite a friend, neighbor, relative or stranger? Most renters’ and homeowners’ policies offer some protection, but is it enough? Find out more.
6 Reasons to Choose an Independent Insurance Agency
Once you understand the difference between a “captive” insurance agency and an independent one, you begin to understand the value of independence.
Your Smartphone and Insurance
Your smartphone can be an important tool to document what happened in an automobile accident and to document your personal belongings in a homeowners’ insurance claim.
What Would You Pay for a Genie in a Bottle?
What if it was possible for you to buy a Genie in a bottle? Would you be interested and what would it be worth? Read how we can potentially make this possible for you and your family.
Is Buying Insurance Gambling?
Is buying insurance gambling? While there are some similarities, one could argue that NOT having insurance is more of a gamble that not having insurance.
Water isn’t always just water. Sometimes it’s a Flood. There’s a Difference!
What is and isn’t covered under flooding insurance? Is flooding even covered under your insurance policy? Get the answers to your questions about water, flooding and your home.
Employee Practice Coverage
What is Employee Practice Coverage
9 Easy Ways to Prevent Yourself from Becoming “Insurance Poor”
What is “insurance poor” and how can you prevent yourself from getting there? Here are nine quick suggestions to help you stay in control of insurance costs.
Pitch: Insurance? Nah…My Landlord’s Got Me Covered.
Renting can be a smart move financially, but not if you are putting your personal possessions at risk. Learn how affordable renter’s insurance can protect your stuff and cover you from a liability claim.