Discount car insurance programs are available to low-earning individuals who may not be able to afford to insure their automobiles on a monthly basis. Car owners quickly learn that operating and maintaining motor vehicles can be an expensive task. In fact, the costs can multiply, even after drivers purchase their automobiles. For individuals who do not earn much income, affording comprehensive car insurance may feel impossible. In order to avoid this expense, claimants who cannot afford insurance may be tempted to forgo purchasing these plans altogether. However, this can lead to more expensive investments in the future, should the drivers be involved in any accidents. For these reasons, different states offer discount programs for qualifying car owners to enroll in.
Automobile owners who are looking for cheap car insurance because they cannot afford high premiums have various opportunities available to them. In addition to enrolling in state-specific programs that are designed to lower their monthly rates, there are also general programs that drivers can enroll in and precautions they can take to lower their payments. Car owners who are aware of these money-saving tips can effectively reduce their spending on auto insurance each month.
Who can qualify for discount car insurance?
Discount auto insurance programs are available to low-income drivers who may not have the financial means to afford standard premiums for car insurance. Often, these discount programs are available to car owners who are enrolled in their state’s public assistance programs. In some instances, these reduced auto insurance rates are also offered to candidates whose vehicles are valued low. However, individual states are responsible for setting individual enrollment rules for these programs, and beneficiaries need to be aware of these prerequisites.
In any case, claimants who qualify for cheap car insurance in the states where they reside should take advantage of these opportunities. In most states, it is unacceptable for motorists to drive their own vehicles without having proper insurance. This is especially important when accidents occur because drivers may be financially accountable for whatever damage is done to their cars or other drivers’ vehicles. In some instances, drivers may face legal consequences if they are driving without automobile insurance. Therefore, it is safest for these motorists to ensure that they have the proper paperwork before they begin operating their own motor vehicles.
What states offer cheap insurance for cars to low-income individuals?
Different states can decide to offer discount motor insurance quotes to qualified motorists. Furthermore, individual states are responsible for establishing rules that drivers must meet before they may take advantage of these benefits. These states can also decide what types of insurance packages they can offer to eligible enrollees. Examples of certain individual states’ programs are outlined below.
California
The California Low Cost Automobile Program (CLCA) makes it easier for drivers to obtain more economical car insurance quotes. This program aims to break down barriers for motorists who may not be able to purchase standard insurance packages because they cannot afford them. Since California requires that all individuals have auto insurance if they drive within the state’s borders, this program helps to ensure that all drivers are meeting the state’s insurance laws. In order to qualify, individuals must:
- Possess valid CA driver’s licenses.
- Be 16 years of age or older.
- Own vehicles that are valued at less than $25,000.
- Meet the state’s income eligibility requirements.
New Jersey
New Jersey’s Special Automobile Insurance Policy (SAIP) offers low-cost motor insurance plans to individuals who have financial limitations that prohibit them from affording standard plans. Specifically, this insurance program is available to individuals who are enrolled in the Medicaid with hospitalization package. Therefore, claimants who wish to enroll in this cheap auto insurance package must first meet the state’s Medicaid requirements and seek insurance through that program. Once motorists are eligible for SAIP, they may then purchase the insurance for $365, which they can pay in two installments at established points in the year. Alternatively, this plan costs $360, if drivers pay in full when they purchase their plans.
Additional Discount Car Quotes & Insurance Programs
Even if there are not specific full coverage car insurance discounts that are available to low-income drivers, motorists can see if they qualify for other discount programs based on their personal circumstances. For example, the United Services Automobile Association (USAA) can help veterans and military personnel to save on their car insurance payments each year. This car insurance for veterans may cost less than what drivers would need to pay in their own states if they independently searched for insurance. Furthermore, individuals who only drive for short distances each year might be eligible for additional discounts.
Likewise, different car insurance companies offer low mileage discounts to drivers who drive less than a certain number of miles each year. Usually, these benefits are useful to older drivers who are not as active on the road anymore. To learn about specific rates, motorists should reach out directly to insurance providers. Elderly drivers may also be able to save money on their auto insurance each month by enrolling in AARP’s Smart Driver Course. This defensive driving course provides senior citizens with the opportunity to learn new defensive driving techniques and to review traffic rules.
Ways to Lower Motor Vehicle Insurance Rates
Drivers who may not have access to official discount car insurance opportunities where they live may still be able to lower their payments each month. No matter how much income claimants earn, there are always ways they can work to reduce their motor insurance fees. For example, drivers can take advantage of the following opportunities to help them save money:
- Automated payments: Some auto insurance companies offer discounts to enrollees who schedule automated payments.
- Safe driving: Enrollees who have not had many automobile accidents may be eligible to pay reduced insurance rates through their providers.
- Good grades: Individuals who have auto insurance group plans may be eligible to receive discounts for students on their plans who earn satisfactory grades at school.
- Hybrid cars: Drivers who own or lease green, environmentally-friendly cars may be eligible for insurance discounts.