As a service member or Veteran, you face unique challenges when it comes to car insurance. From frequent moves to deployments, your military lifestyle requires special consideration. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about military car insurance to keep you and your vehicle protected.
PCS Moves and Your Car Insurance
Every Permanent Change of Station (PCS) affects your car insurance, and your other insurance categories as well. When you move, use this checklist for your military car insurance situation:
- Contact your insurer before you move
- Update your policy with your new address
- Check if your new state has different minimum coverage requirements
- Consider how your new location might affect your rates (urban vs. rural, crime rates, etc.)
- Don’t let your coverage lapse during the move
State Registration vs. Insurance Location
Military car insurance can get tricky when your car is registered in one state but garaged in another. Generally, you should insure your car where it’s primarily garaged. However, some states allow active duty members to keep insurance from their home of record. Check with your new state’s DMV for specific military exemptions. Always inform your insurer about your military status and where your vehicle will be located to ensure proper coverage.
SCRA Protections for Military Car Insurance
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides important protections for your car insurance. It prevents policy cancellation for non-payment during deployment and allows suspension of coverage for stored vehicles. The SCRA may also provide early termination of auto leases without penalty. Familiarize yourself with these rights to ensure you’re taking full advantage of the protections available to you.
Military Discounts and Special Rates
Many insurers offer special military car insurance rates:
- USAA: Exclusively serves military members and their families
- GEICO: Offers up to 15% off for active duty and retired military
- Armed Forces Insurance: Specializes in coverage for military personnel
- Many other providers offer military discounts – always ask!
Remember, the best military car insurance isn’t just about price. Consider coverage limits, customer service, and claims process too. See our comparison table below to find a good discount on military car insurance:
Deployment and Your Car Insurance
Deploying? Don’t forget about your car insurance. If you’re storing your vehicle, consider reducing coverage to comprehensive only. Some companies offer military-specific storage policies. At a minimum, maintain some coverage to avoid a lapse. Just remember to reactivate full coverage before driving again post-deployment.
Deployment can also be a good time to expand your life insurance coverage. Learn more about military life insurance here.
Handling Insurance Claims While Deployed
Filing a claim from halfway around the world can be challenging. Set up a power of attorney for a trusted individual to handle insurance matters in your absence. Opt for insurers with robust online claims processes, which can make managing your policy easier from afar. Keep digital copies of your policy information and important documents for easy access when needed.
International Assignments and Car Insurance
Overseas orders present unique car insurance challenges. Some countries require the purchase of local insurance, and your U.S. policy may not be valid overseas. Check with your current provider about international coverage options. It’s crucial to research insurance requirements for your specific location well in advance of your move to avoid any coverage gaps or legal issues.
Usage-Based Insurance for Military
Consider usage-based insurance programs that base your rates on how much and how safely you drive. These can be particularly beneficial during deployments or periods of low vehicle use. They may offer significant savings for safe drivers, making them an attractive option for many service members.
Beyond Basic Coverage: Protecting Military Families
For comprehensive protection, consider these additional coverages:
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Personal injury protection or medical payments coverage
- Gap insurance for financed vehicles
- Rental car coverage for when your vehicle is in the shop
Military Car Insurance for Young Drivers
If you have a teenage driver, keep in mind that rates and requirements vary by state. Some companies offer good student discounts, and you may qualify for discounts if your teen is away at college. Consider whether adding them to your policy or getting a separate policy makes more financial sense.
Regular Policy Reviews: A Military Must
Your military car insurance needs can change rapidly. Review your policy annually and update it after any life changes such as marriage, divorce, buying a new car, or a PCS move. Regularly reassess your coverage needs and eligibility for discounts to ensure you’re always adequately protected at the best possible rate.
Take Command of Your Military Car Insurance
Navigating car insurance as a service member or Veteran doesn’t have to be a minefield. Stay informed, ask questions, and review your policy regularly to ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your unique needs.
Ready to dive deeper into managing your military car insurance and other financial matters? Join The Edge, a free financial education platform designed specifically for the military community. With The Edge, you’ll gain access to interactive tools to compare military car insurance rates and coverage options, calculators to help you budget for auto expenses, articles and videos explaining complex insurance topics, and personalized action plans to optimize your insurance coverage.
Don’t leave your military car insurance to chance. Take control of your coverage and join The Edge today. It’s free, it’s comprehensive, and it’s tailored to your unique needs as a member of the military community.
By leveraging the resources available through The Edge, you can make informed decisions about your military car insurance, ensuring you and your family are protected wherever your service takes you. Sign up now and start your journey to smarter, military-savvy auto insurance management!
