Summer is wedding season! If you are planning to walk down the aisle this summer (or anytime of year), there are some things you should consider when it comes to your insurance.
Car Insurance
Good news! Getting married can save you money on your car insurance. Most companies offer multi-car discounts as well as discounts for married couples. It is also important to account for any additional “toys” a spouse might bring to the marriage. This includes boats, motorcycles, collectable cars, etc.
Life Insurance
Now that you have to worry about more than just yourself, life insurance is important to consider. It is designed to take care of your family if you pass away. Already have a life insurance policy? The first thing you need to do is update your beneficiary to your spouse. This ensures he/she will receive the money from the policy if you die. If you (or your spouse) don’t have a life insurance policy, now is the time to get one. Consider how much debt you have and how much income you would need to replace if your spouse passes away. This will help you determine how much life insurance you need.
Renters and Homeowners Insurance
The Insurance Information Institute states that, ironically, homeowners or renters insurance questions frequently begin when couples buy engagement and wedding rings – things of actual as well as symbolic value – or accumulate expensive household items. A standard homeowner policy includes a limit (usually a fixed percentage of the broader coverage) on personal possessions, so an endorsement or floater may be needed to cover high value items. Merging two households presents a good opportunity to do a home inventory. This helps couples understand what their insurance coverage needs are – and provides a record of what to claim if a real disaster strikes.
The Insurance Information Institute offers a helpful home inventory software, Know Your Stuff, where you can catalog your possessions in case of a home disaster. Knowing what you have and how much it is worth will help determine the kind of coverage you need – whether you are renting an apartment or buying a home together.
If you (or your spouse) are moving into a home with an existing insurance policy, you need to review any additions to the household that may affect the policy. For example, adding a dog may require additional insurance in case the dog injures someone or destroys personal property.
Plan Ahead
The best thing you can do is sit down with your Independent Insurance Agent before you get married (or as soon as possible afterwards). He/She will review your current insurance policies and determine what changes or additions you may need to make, and recommend the best coverage at the best price to meet your needs.
