Best Car Insurance for Military and Veterans
How Much Does Military Car Insurance Cost?
Car insurance rates vary widely based on your location, age, driving history, vehicle, and other factors. However, on average, military members pay substantially less than civilians for comparable policies. Here are some average full coverage costs:
- National Average for Civilians: $1,771 per year
- USAA Average for Military: $1,209 per year
- Geico Average for Military: $1,297 per year
While costs differ across providers and individuals, military members can expect to save $500 per year or more over average civilian rates. This adds up to thousands in savings over the course of your policy!
Ways to Save on Military Car Insurance
Beyond access to military rates and discounts, there are other ways to minimize what you pay for coverage. Here are some smart tips:
1. Bundle Services – Most insurers offer a discount for bundling multiple policies, like your car and home or renters insurance. This provides around 10-15% off.
2. Increase Deductibles – Choosing a higher deductible before coverage kicks in brings down monthly premiums substantially. Only do this if you have ample emergency savings.
3. Maintain Good Credit – Insurers favor those with higher credit scores, offering significant discounts. Keep up on payments and bills to keep your score high.
4. Enroll in Defensive Driving – Many providers discount rates for those completing an approved safe driving course every few years.
5. Compare Quotes Regularly – Revisiting your options at renewal periods ensures you always benefit from the lowest rates.
Finding the Best Value and Service
Price shouldn’t be the only consideration when choosing military car insurance. You also want great service, reliable claims handling, and quality when it comes to repairs or replacements.
Look at these key factors when comparing providers:
- Customer Service Reputation – Check ratings and reviews from places like JD Power & Associates. Top insurers excel at member support.
- Satisfaction Ratings for Claims – If you do have to use your coverage, you want your claim settled promptly, fairly, and hassle-free. Ask friends or check online reviews.
- Repair Shop Options – For collision coverage, make sure your insurer offers quality local repair shops suited to your vehicle type.
- Financial Strength – Companies should be in solid financial standing to withstand claims. Look for A ratings from firms like A.M. Best.
Answering Common Military Car Insurance Questions
We know you likely have plenty of questions about finding the right coverage. Here we’ll address some frequently asked ones:
What Documents Do You Need to Get a Military Discount?
Requirements vary slightly by insurer but expect to show one or more of the following:
- Armed forces ID
- DD Form 214 / discharge papers
- Military orders showing active status
- ROTC contract or academy appointment letter
- Proof of relation to military member if a family member
Does Deployment Impact My Coverage or Rates?
Often yes – in positive ways! Many insurers offer discounts or refunds for deployment overseas to hazardous areas. Some also cover your vehicle while stored during deployment.
What If I’m Stationed Overseas – Can I Get US Coverage?
Absolutely. Providers like USAA are very familiar with overseas military life. Make sure to inform them of your duty station and deployment status to get the best rates and options.
Do I Need Extra Coverage If I Transport Weapons or Ammunition for Duty?
Most standard policies do not cover transport of weapons, explosives, or other hazardous materials. Contact your provider about exclusions and any optional riders to cover this exposure.
Finding the Best Fit for Your Situation
Your individual needs should drive your military car insurance decision. Here are some final tips for selecting the right provider:
If you want access to military-exclusive rates and benefits, USAA is hard to beat for both cost and service given its sole focus on the armed forces community.
If you want a mix of military discounts plus broader coverage, a mass insurer like Geico gives you solid pricing with the breadth of a huge nationwide company.
If you want a regional company with military discounts, explore options like Arbella for New England residents that provide military pricing.
If you want maximum discounts applied to an existing policy, ask your current provider about any military, multi-policy, good driver or other savings.
Regardless of the company you choose, the key is shopping around, comparing rates regularly, and taking advantage of every military-exclusive discount you’ve earned! By following the guidance above, you can keep more money in your pocket and gain peace of mind with comprehensive coverage.
