Make sure you know who your current agent is and how to reach them. Even better if you have a copy of your policies and know what you have for coverages. Both parties should know where they stand on insurance until they are on their own policies.
Know that your credit can impact your insurance score as it is often one of the factors in insurance rating. Separation can impact your credit score as you are working to detangle financial responsibilities. Make sure you work to maintain your credit scores to help save money down the road.
- Car insurance: Cannot remove your ex without consent- typically in writing. If you have separate addresses, separate vehicle titles, One person will have to get a new policy.
- If you move, you need to notify your insurance provider- a new Zipcode can alter your car insurance premiums.
- Typically the insurance follows the car registrations. This means whoever officially owns the car and registers it, is the person who typically has the insurance coverage on the car.
- Never have a lapse in coverage if you can avoid it- even if it is only a day. This can significantly increase premiums. The person getting new coverage should get the new policy in place BEFORE being removed from the prior policy. In other words, do not allow yourself to have a lapse in coverage as this can be quite costly- even only if for a short period of time.
- Children in divorce situations: typically the parent with primary coverage will provide the insurance, but this can be part of the child support obligation negotiations.
- Best time to separate policies- when divorce is finalized. Once the divorce is final, one party will need a new policy.
- If your ex is paying for insurance after the divorce, make sure the insurance company has all your contact info as well so you are notified if payments are no longer made.
- The widow penalty- when you are widowed some company’s increase rates by as much as 20%. This is because that person is now considered “single” and single drivers pay higher insurance than married couples. Have your insurance company let you know if premiums will be increasing when you change your status. If so, a good independent agent can shop for these things.
- If you need a new vehicle know the purchase price, theft rate, cost of repairs, accident rate, and safety tests all impact the insurance price on the car- so it is not one thing.
- Consider AAA or roadside assistance options to keep you protected if you have car troubles.
- Partner with a good licensed agent who is responsive, supportive, and educates you on the process and your options. An independent agent can help you find the best insurance options for your particular needs by shopping a variety of carriers on your behalf. By doing so, they can reduce a lot of stress that can be part of this transition process.
