I’ve been reading about state programs and other ways to lower car insurance costs. It seems like California, Hawaii, and New Jersey have programs to help with insurance, and there are also ways to lower your premium. Anyone have experience with these options or advice on how to get affordable car insurance?
I’m in California, and I used their Low-Cost Auto Insurance program. It’s definitely cheaper than a regular policy, but it’s only basic coverage. I pay around $25 a month, but keep in mind it doesn’t cover damage to my own car if I get in an accident.
@Micah
That sounds like a pretty good deal. Do you have to meet a lot of requirements to qualify?
Corey said:
@Micah
That sounds like a pretty good deal. Do you have to meet a lot of requirements to qualify?
Yeah, there are income limits, and your car has to be worth less than $25k. You also need a valid driver’s license. It’s not for everyone, but it helps if you meet those conditions.
In New Jersey, there’s the Special Automobile Insurance Policy (SAIP). It’s only $1 a day, but it’s really limited—covers emergency care and some long-term injury stuff, but not property damage. It’s mainly for people who are on Medicaid.
@Zayden
Doesn’t sound like much, but $365 a year is super cheap. Does it include regular checkups or just emergencies?
Adair said:
@Zayden
Doesn’t sound like much, but $365 a year is super cheap. Does it include regular checkups or just emergencies?
It’s mostly for emergencies. If you need long-term care after an accident, it might help, but for regular checkups or fixing your car, you’d need other insurance.
I tried finding help through local nonprofits when I was between jobs, but they mostly offered temporary assistance. It covered a couple of months, which gave me time to figure things out. If you’re struggling, it’s worth checking what’s available nearby.
@Paz
That’s helpful to know. Did you have to provide a lot of documentation to get the assistance?
Corey said:
@Paz
That’s helpful to know. Did you have to provide a lot of documentation to get the assistance?
Yeah, I had to show proof of income and why I needed help. Each group has its own rules, so it depends on where you go.
If you can’t qualify for a state program, try lowering your premiums by shopping around or looking for discounts. I got a discount by bundling my home and auto insurance, and it saved me a lot.
Hux said:
If you can’t qualify for a state program, try lowering your premiums by shopping around or looking for discounts. I got a discount by bundling my home and auto insurance, and it saved me a lot.
I’ve heard bundling helps. Does it really make a big difference in price?
@Joss
For me, it did. I saved about 20% on my car insurance. It might not be as much for everyone, but it’s worth asking your provider about.
Anyone else try telematics? I signed up for a usage-based program where they track my driving habits, and I got a lower rate since I drive safely.
Clove said:
Anyone else try telematics? I signed up for a usage-based program where they track my driving habits, and I got a lower rate since I drive safely.
I’m curious about that. Do they track everything, like speed and braking?
@Corey
Yeah, they track things like your speed, how hard you brake, and what times you’re driving. It might sound invasive, but if you’re a safe driver, it can lead to some decent savings.