Tips for First Time Insurance Buyers

When you buy insurance, you're really buying something that you hope you'll never have to use. But if you ever do need to file an insurance claim, you'll understand why having the right amount and right types of coverage is important.

Decide how much insurance you need

You can't stop bad things from happening. But you can protect yourself financially by purchasing insurance. How much insurance you need depends on a lot of factors including how much you owe and own, how much your assets are worth, whether you have dependents, and how much out-of-pocket cost you could afford to bear. You can estimate your coverage needs using calculators or worksheets available on-line, but it's a good idea to sit down with an insurance agent or broker who can thoroughly evaluate your needs.

Comparison shop

No matter what type of insurance you're buying, the process is essentially the same. Once you've decided what type of insurance and how much coverage you need, you can begin contacting insurance companies online, directly by phone, or through an insurance agent or broker to obtain quotes. Get quotes from several different insurers because premium cost can vary widely.

But compare the coverage offered, too. A policy might cost less because it offers fewer, or different, features and benefits. And make sure the company you've settled on is reputable, with good customer service and claims-paying ability. All insurance companies are rated by major rating agencies (e.g. Standard & Poor's, Moody's, A.M. Best) on their ability to pay claims. You can access these ratings online, through public libraries, or through insurance company literature.