How Getting Married Changes Your Insurance Landscape
There is a lot of truth the saying that once you get married, things will never be the same again. Marriage affects just about every aspect of your life, including the various forms of insurance you carry. In some cases, these changes have some positive ramifications. Here is a quick look at some various types of insurance coverage and how getting married may impact them.
Auto Insurance
Ready for some good news? Getting married may very well reduce your auto insurance rates! Apparently, insurance companies believe that somehow getting married makes you more responsible and a better driver. Don’t argue. Make sure you let your insurance agent know you have gotten married and ask if that qualifies you for a better rate. If there is a name change involved, you’ll also want to have that noted as well.
Life Insurance
When you get married you may want to have a review to see if you have enough life insurance. You likely have more responsibilities upon getting married, and if there are children involved, you’ll want to take them into consideration. At the very least, you’ll want to consider making your new spouse the beneficiary of any life insurance you may already have. If a name change is involved, now is the time to get that done as well.
Health Insurance
You may qualify for a variety of new “family” health insurance plans upon getting married. Contact your health insurance provider to determine the plans for which you may qualify. Oh, and that name thing again.
Renters and Homeowners Insurance
If you are renting and previously didn’t carry renters insurance, now is a good time to reconsider. Merging households usually increases the number of belongings and valuables you may have. These include electronics, jewelry, furniture, clothing, and other valuables. Renters insurance is inexpensive and a good investment, especially for newlyweds. You’ll also want to let your insurance agent know if one of you owns a home when you get married. Again, merging households may bring new assets together including “toys” like boats, motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, etc. Once again, don’t forget that name change.
There’s much to think about when getting married and insurance coverage may not be at the top of the list. It is, however, one of those significant life changes that may call for a complete insurance review. Our independent insurance agents can review all of your policies, no matter what company issued them. Contact your independent insurance agent to discuss the changes in your life…including if your name has changed.
