It is a known fact that married couples can share a car insurance policy, but what about unmarried couples? Well, the thing is, unmarried couples can combine car insurance. However, there are certain things you need to keep in mind. You should only add someone with whom you have a serious relationship to your policy, even if you guys are not married.
This article contains information to help unmarried couples get car insurance. Read to the very end to know everything about car insurance for unmarried couples.
Is it Possible for Unmarried Couples to Combine Car Insurance?
Yes, unmarried couples can combine car insurance. If you share a car, the owner should be listed as the main policyholder, with the partner added as an additional driver. If each of you has separate vehicles, you can just go for a combined policy as members of the same household.
When searching for options, keep in mind that different insurance companies may use various terms or names for these policies. The common ones are:
- Unmarried Couple Insurance
- Domestic Partner Insurance
- Domestic Partnerships Insurance
- Non-Married Insurance
- Roommate Insurance
- Non-Relative Insurance
If you’re unsure if your insurer offers these policies, you can contact them and ask directly.
When is it Smart to Share an Insurance Policy?
Let’s take a look at the best time to share an auto policy as an unmarried couple.
• When it’s required by your insurance company
If you live with another individual or they frequently use your car (more than 12 times a year), you should consider a shared car insurance policy. Most insurers require household members to be listed as drivers or excluded from the policy. If excluded, they shouldn’t drive your car, as they won’t be covered in an accident. Note that some states, like New York, don’t allow household members to be excluded drivers.
Different companies might have various names for this type of policy, but the common requirement is a shared address. You don’t even have to be in a romantic relationship—as long as you live together and meet other criteria, you can qualify.
• When you can get a discount
Adding another driver and their vehicle to your policy can earn you a multi-vehicle or multi-driver discount. This can be especially useful if you’re bundling home and auto or auto and renters insurance with the same company. Always compare quotes from different carriers to ensure you get the best deal.
• Engaged Couples
Some insurers offer policies for engaged couples. They allow you to share a policy even if you don’t yet live together. Typically, you’ll need to get married within 12 months of starting the policy.
Is Unmarried Couple Insurance the Same as Joint Auto Insurance?
Yes, insurance for unmarried couples falls under the umbrella of joint auto insurance. This is usually referred to as multi-car policy. However, you need to keep in mind that not every insurer offers this option to unmarried couples; some may require you to be married to be eligible.
Is Sharing Car Insurance as an Unmarried Couple a Good Decision?
If you trust your partner’s driving skills and want to save money, adding them to your car insurance may be a very good decision. It’s also safer if you both drive each other’s cars to list each other as drivers.
However, if you’re unsure about their driving record or habits, combining policies might not be the right option. Since you’re not married, you don’t have to be financially responsible for each other’s driving. You can even consider excluding your partner from your policy to keep costs low.
Even if you don’t share car insurance, here are some of the good ways to save on a car policy:
- Reduce coverage amounts: Consider dropping full coverage or lowering current coverage options.
- Choose a usage-based policy: Have a discussion with your insurance provider about a policy based on how much you drive.
- Search for discounts: Look for discounts for young adults, college students, or bundling home/renters and auto insurance.
- Improve your credit: In some companies, having better credit scores can help in lowering your insurance rates.
Deciding whether to share car insurance is important for your financial well-being. Make sure to consider all these above-listed factors to ensure a smart choice for you and your partner.
