How to Compare Auto Insurance Quotes the Smart Way

Comparing auto insurance quotes can save time and surprises, but only if the quotes are truly comparable. A low number next to a different set of coverages is not a real comparison. This guide gives you a simple process you can follow whether you shop online, by phone or with an agent.

Step 1: Gather your information

Having details ready makes quotes faster and more accurate. Insurers commonly ask for the following.

• Driver names, dates of birth and license information for everyone in the household who drives
• Vehicle details: year, make, model and the vehicle identification number (VIN) if you have it
• Where the vehicles are parked overnight and roughly how many miles you drive each year
• Your current coverage and its renewal date, plus any recent tickets or accidents

Step 2: Decide on your coverage first

Look at your current declarations page to see what you carry today, then decide whether to keep it or change it. Settle on liability limits, whether you want collision and comprehensive, your deductibles and any extras. Then ask every insurer to quote exactly that. Our guide to liability versus full coverage can help you think it through.

Step 3: Get several quotes

Because insurers price differently, gathering more than one quote is the only dependable way to see the range available to you. You can approach companies one at a time, use a comparison service, or talk to an independent agent who can request quotes from multiple carriers. If you use a service that connects you with licensed agents, such as the request form on this site, remember that the agents you hear from will each represent specific companies.

Step 4: Compare line by line

Put the quotes side by side in a simple table or spreadsheet.

Step 5: Ask about discounts

Discounts are not always applied automatically. Ask about multi-policy, multi-car, safe-driver, good-student, telematics, paid-in-full, defensive driving and other credits. See ways to lower your car insurance bill for a fuller list. Which ones are available depends on the insurer and state.

Step 6: Look beyond the price

• Financial strength. Independent rating agencies publish financial strength ratings for insurers.
• Complaints. Your state department of insurance may publish complaint information.
• Claims experience. Ask how claims are reported, how repairs are handled and what rental help is included.
• Service options. Consider whether you want an app, an agent you can call or both.

Step 7: Switch carefully

When you pick a new policy, set its start date first, confirm you have proof of insurance, and only then cancel the old one so you never have a gap. Ask whether you are owed a refund of unused premium and whether any cancellation fee applies. Keep a copy of both policies' paperwork for your records.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Comparing quotes with different limits or deductibles
• Leaving drivers or incidents off an application, which can lead to a higher price or a denied claim later
• Choosing only on price and ignoring what is excluded
• Letting the current policy lapse before the new one starts