SelectQuote Car Insurance: Pros, Cons & How It Works

You see the name SelectQuote and probably think it’s just another insurance provider. But it’s not. Think of them as an insurance matchmaker. They don’t sell their own policies. Instead, they connect you with a network of well-known car insurance companies. This is a critical distinction. Understanding it is the key to properly evaluating their platform to find genuinely cheap car insurance. This article will explain exactly how SelectQuote car insurance works, how their agents get paid, and what it means for you when you’re trying to compare car insurance quotes.

Key Takeaways

Understand SelectQuote is a Broker, Not an Insurer: They provide a convenient way to compare quotes, but only from their specific network of partner companies. Think of their service as a helpful starting point rather than a complete view of the entire insurance market.
Use Agent Advice as a Guide, Not a Final Answer: While agents can offer valuable guidance, it’s important to remember they work on commission. Your best strategy is to use their help to gather options, then personally compare the policy details, coverage limits, and deductibles to find the best fit for you.
Take an Active Role in Your Rate and Policy: Don’t assume the first quote is the final price. Proactively ask about every available discount, like bundling or safe driving rewards. Once you purchase a policy, remember that all future service and claims will be handled directly by the insurance carrier you chose, not by SelectQuote.

What is SelectQuote Car Insurance?

When you’re looking for auto insurance, you might come across the name SelectQuote. It’s important to know that SelectQuote isn’t an insurance company itself. Instead, think of it as a large insurance agency, or broker. Their job is to act as a matchmaker between you and various insurance companies.

SelectQuote doesn’t underwrite its own policies. Instead, they partner with a network of different insurance providers. This means when you work with them, you’re not buying a “SelectQuote” plan. You’re using their service to compare plans from multiple well-known insurance companies to find one that fits your needs and budget. This approach can save you the time and effort of getting individual quotes from each company on your own.

Company Background

SelectQuote has been in the insurance industry since its founding in 1985. It’s important to understand that they operate as a broker, not a traditional insurance company. This means they don’t create or underwrite their own insurance policies. Instead, they act as a go-between, connecting customers with a variety of well-known insurance carriers. Think of them as a personal shopper for your insurance needs. This is a key distinction because it means they offer a convenient way to compare quotes, but only from the specific companies within their partner network. This gives you a solid overview of many options, but not necessarily the entire market.

One of the biggest advantages of using a service like SelectQuote is the time and effort you can save. Instead of contacting multiple insurance companies one by one for individual quotes, you can see a range of options all in one place. Their platform is designed to give you clear, side-by-side comparisons of different plans, making it easier to find coverage that fits your specific needs and budget. You can shop for policies from many highly-rated carriers without the hassle of repeating your information on several different websites, which simplifies the entire process.

While SelectQuote provides a helpful service, it’s also useful to know how their business works. They earn revenue from commissions paid by the insurance companies you sign up with, which is a standard practice for brokers. Because of this, it’s a good idea to use their agents’ advice as a starting point. They can provide valuable guidance, but you should always do your own final review of the policy details. Taking the time to personally compare your options ensures you find the best possible coverage at a price that works for you.

How Does the SelectQuote Process Work?

SelectQuote’s main goal is to simplify the insurance shopping experience. The process starts when you request a free quote, either online or over the phone. You’ll provide some basic information about yourself, your vehicle, and your driving history. A SelectQuote agent then takes this information and uses it to search for matching policies from their partner insurance companies.

They essentially do the comparison shopping for you. The agent will present you with several options, explaining the differences in coverage and price. Their aim is to help you find a suitable plan at a competitive rate. This service is free for you to use, as SelectQuote is compensated by the insurance company you ultimately choose.

What to Expect When Getting Car Insurance Quotes

The biggest advantage of using a service like SelectQuote is convenience. Instead of filling out multiple applications on different insurance websites, you only have to provide your information once. Within minutes, they can pull quotes from many different carriers, saving you a significant amount of time and potential frustration.

This process allows you to easily compare auto insurance quotes side-by-side. Seeing different prices and coverage levels in one place can make it much clearer which company offers the best value for your specific situation. The idea is to make a complex decision feel more manageable by streamlining the research phase for you.

Which Car Insurance Companies Are on SelectQuote?

SelectQuote works with a curated list of national and regional insurance providers. They state that they partner with over 19 highly-rated insurance companies, many of which have strong financial strength ratings from A.M. Best. This is a good indicator that you’ll be choosing from stable, reputable insurers.

Some of the familiar names on their partner list include Progressive, Travelers, Safeco (part of Liberty Mutual), The Hartford, and Kemper. The exact companies available to you will depend on your location and other factors. Having access to this variety means you’re more likely to find a policy that aligns with both your coverage needs and your budget.

Partner Company Financial Strength Ratings

When you choose an insurance policy, you’re not just buying a piece of paper; you’re buying a promise that the company will be there to help when you need it most. That’s why a company’s financial health is so important. SelectQuote makes this a priority by partnering with insurers known for their strong financial strength ratings from A.M. Best, a leading credit rating agency for the insurance industry. These ratings tell you how capable an insurer is of paying claims. For instance, Travelers holds an impressive A++ rating, while other partners like Progressive and The Hartford have received an A+. Choosing a highly-rated company provides peace of mind, knowing your insurer is on solid financial ground.

What Coverage Options Does SelectQuote Offer?

When you use a comparison service like SelectQuote, you’ll find a mix of standard and optional coverages from their partner insurance companies. Understanding these options is the first step to building a policy that truly protects you and your vehicle. Let’s look at what you can typically expect to find.

The Basics: Standard Policy Coverage

Every auto insurance policy is built on a foundation of standard coverages. SelectQuote’s partners offer all the essentials you need to be a legal driver. This includes liability coverage, which pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others in an accident. It also includes collision coverage, which helps repair or replace your own car after a crash. Finally, comprehensive coverage handles damage from non-collision events, like theft, falling objects, or weather. Think of these three as the core building blocks of your auto protection.

Customizing Your Policy with Add-Ons

Beyond the basics, you can add extra protection to your policy for more peace of mind. Common add-ons include uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which protects you if you’re in an accident with someone who doesn’t have enough (or any) insurance. You might also consider Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Medical Payments (MedPay) to help cover medical bills for you and your passengers, no matter who is at fault. Other popular options are roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement, which can be lifesavers if your car is in the shop after a covered incident.

Common Policy Exclusions

While your policy is designed to protect you from many common risks, it’s equally important to understand what it doesn’t cover. Every auto insurance plan has specific exclusions, and being aware of them can prevent surprises later on. For instance, damage from intentional acts, like vandalism you cause yourself, is never covered. Similarly, if you use your personal car for business activities, such as ridesharing or delivery services, any resulting damage might be excluded unless you have a commercial policy. Other common auto insurance exclusions include theft of personal belongings from inside your vehicle—which is typically covered by homeowners or renters insurance—and damage from racing or high-speed competitions. Reading the fine print helps you know exactly where your coverage begins and ends.

When is Comprehensive Coverage Necessary?

Comprehensive coverage is your safety net for events that aren’t related to a collision. Think of it as protection against theft, fire, hail, falling tree branches, or hitting an animal. While liability and collision coverages handle accidents with other vehicles, comprehensive steps in for these other unpredictable situations. If you have a loan or lease on your vehicle, your lender will almost certainly require you to carry it. If you own your car outright, the decision is yours. A good rule of thumb is to consider your car’s value and whether you could comfortably afford to repair or replace it. If a total loss would create a significant financial hardship, keeping comprehensive coverage is a wise choice for your financial security.

Is SelectQuote Available Where You Live?

SelectQuote is licensed to operate and help you find insurance in all 50 states. This means you can use their service to compare quotes whether you live in Florida, California, or anywhere in between. However, it’s important to remember that auto insurance is regulated at the state level. The specific insurance requirements, coverage options, and available discounts can vary significantly depending on where you live. So, while SelectQuote is available nationwide, the policies you see will be tailored to your state’s laws and the insurance carriers that operate there.

Why You Might Like Using SelectQuote

Shopping for insurance can feel like a full-time job. Juggling different websites, comparing confusing policy details, and wondering if you’re getting a fair price is enough to make anyone’s head spin. Using a service like SelectQuote is designed to simplify this process. Instead of doing all the legwork yourself, you have a tool that gathers options for you. Let’s walk through the main advantages of this approach.

See All Your Car Insurance Quotes at Once

The biggest draw of using SelectQuote is convenience. Rather than visiting multiple insurance company websites one by one to get quotes, you can see several options in a single place. Their main goal is to help you compare insurance plans and find coverage that fits your needs and your budget. This saves you a significant amount of time and effort. You fill out your information once, and their system pulls up relevant policies, allowing you to see how different rates and coverage levels stack up against each other.

More Choices from Different Insurers

SelectQuote doesn’t just offer plans from one or two companies. They partner with more than 19 different insurance carriers, giving you a broader view of what’s available. Many of these are highly-rated companies with strong financial ratings from institutions like A.M. Best, which indicates they are financially stable and reliable. Having access to a variety of trusted insurance partners means you have a better chance of finding a policy that is the right match for your specific situation, rather than being limited to the offerings of a single insurer.

Good News: It’s Completely Free to Use

You might be wondering how SelectQuote makes money if they aren’t charging you for this service. The process is straightforward: their service is completely free for you to use. They earn a commission from the insurance company when you decide to purchase a policy through them. This is a standard practice in the insurance industry. What this means for you is that you can get help comparing quotes and finding a plan without having to worry about any hidden fees or charges for using their platform.

Get Help from a Licensed Agent

If you prefer talking to a person over filling out forms online, SelectQuote offers that, too. When you contact them, a licensed agent will discuss your specific needs, budget, and personal circumstances. Based on that conversation, the agent will do the comparison shopping for you and present a few of the best options from their partner companies. This personalized guidance can be incredibly helpful, especially if you have questions or aren’t sure what kind of coverage you really need. It adds a human touch to the insurance shopping experience.

What to Watch Out For with SelectQuote

While using a service like SelectQuote can simplify your search, it’s important to be aware of the potential downsides. Understanding how their business works can help you make a more informed decision and ensure you find the right policy for your needs, not just the one that’s most convenient. Let’s look at a few things to keep in mind.

Ethical Concerns and Legal Issues

It’s important to be aware of some serious legal issues involving the company. SelectQuote is currently facing a Department of Justice (DOJ) lawsuit that alleges the company was part of an illegal kickback scheme. The lawsuit claims brokers were paid to enroll people in specific Medicare Advantage plans. While this doesn’t directly involve auto insurance, it raises a critical question about the company’s practices. When an agent’s compensation might be tied to selling a particular plan, it’s fair to wonder if the advice you’re getting is truly unbiased and focused on your best interests. This is a significant concern to keep in mind as you evaluate their recommendations.

Reports of High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Another point to consider is the sales environment. Many customer and employee reviews describe a high-pressure atmosphere where agents are pushed to meet aggressive sales goals. For you, this could translate into persistent follow-up calls and emails after you’ve requested a quote. Being prepared for this can make the experience less stressful. Remember, you are in control of the process. You should never feel rushed into making a decision about your insurance. Take all the time you need to review the policy details and choose the plan that feels right for you, without any outside pressure.

Are Their Partner Options Limited?

It’s easy to assume that a comparison site shows you everything available, but that’s not always the case. SelectQuote is a broker, not an insurance company itself. This means they present you with plans from a specific group of insurance partners they work with. While this gives you options, it’s not a complete picture of the market. You could potentially miss out on a better rate or a more suitable policy from a company that isn’t in their network. This limited selection is a crucial point to consider when you compare insurance quotes.

How Do SelectQuote Agents Get Paid?

Understanding how agents are compensated can shed light on the recommendations you receive. SelectQuote agents earn commissions from the insurance companies for the policies they sell. This is a standard practice in the industry, but it can create a potential conflict of interest. An agent might be encouraged to highlight plans from companies that offer a higher commission. While they can provide valuable guidance, it’s wise to remember that their advice may be influenced by factors other than what is purely the best and most affordable fit for you.

What Is Their Customer Service Really Like?

If you value building a relationship with a single agent who knows your history, SelectQuote’s model might not be the best fit. They operate on a large call-center system, which means you’ll likely speak with a different person each time you call for support. This can make it difficult to get consistent advice or build a rapport with someone who understands your specific situation. Some customers have also reported receiving a high volume of follow-up calls and emails, which can feel more focused on making a sale than on providing personalized service.

A Look at Customer Service Statistics

Online reviews can paint a complex picture, and SelectQuote is no exception. On one hand, the company holds an “Excellent” 4.3-star rating on Trustpilot, which shows many customers are satisfied with their initial experience. However, a closer look at their customer support practices reveals a potential concern: they have responded to only 3% of their negative reviews. This lack of engagement can be a red flag if you value responsive service. This impersonal approach is also reflected in their call-center model, where you’re unlikely to speak with the same agent twice. Many reviews also describe a high-pressure sales environment, with frequent follow-up calls and emails. These factors suggest that while the quote process is efficient, the long-term service might not offer the personal connection you’d get from a dedicated agent.

How Accurate Are the Initial Quotes?

The initial quote you receive is a great starting point, but it may not be the final price you pay. Some people have found that the actual cost of their policy is higher than what was first quoted, occasionally by a significant amount. This can happen after the insurance company does a full review of your driving record and other personal details. When you get a quote, think of it as an estimate. Be sure to confirm the final premium before you commit to and purchase a policy.

What Determines Your Car Insurance Rate?

Ever wonder why your auto insurance quote is so different from your neighbor’s or your sister’s? It’s because insurance rates are highly personalized. Companies look at a variety of factors to assess risk and determine what your premium will be. While the exact formula can vary between insurers, they all tend to focus on the same core areas. Understanding these factors can help you see where you have some control over your costs and why your rate is what it is. Let’s walk through the main elements that shape your auto insurance premium.

How Your Driving History Impacts Your Rate

It probably comes as no surprise that your history behind the wheel is one of the biggest factors in your insurance rate. A clean driving record, free of accidents and traffic violations, signals to insurers that you’re a low-risk driver, which usually translates to lower premiums. On the other hand, a history of speeding tickets or at-fault accidents can raise your rates significantly. Beyond your record, other personal details matter, too. Your age plays a role, and in many states, companies may also look at your credit-based insurance score to help predict your likelihood of filing a claim.

Rates After a Ticket, Accident, or DUI

A single speeding ticket or at-fault accident can cause a significant jump in your premium. These incidents stay on your record for several years, influencing your rates long after the event. The exact increase depends on the severity of the violation and the insurer. For example, recent data shows that after a speeding ticket, a driver might find a more competitive full coverage rate with a company like Travelers, while someone with a DUI on their record might find a better option with Progressive. This is a clear financial reason to maintain a safe driving history, as insurers view these events as direct indicators of future risk.

Does the Car You Drive Change Your Premium?

The type of car you own has a direct impact on your insurance costs. Insurers consider the car’s make, model, age, and value. A brand-new luxury vehicle will cost more to insure than a 10-year-old sedan simply because it would be more expensive to repair or replace if it were damaged or stolen. Insurers also look at a car’s safety record and the likelihood of theft. Cars with high safety ratings from the IIHS and features like anti-theft devices can sometimes earn you a discount, as they reduce the insurer’s risk.

Examples of Cars That Are Cheaper to Insure

So, which cars tend to get the thumbs-up from insurance companies? Generally, you’ll find that reliable, safe vehicles with reasonable repair costs are the most affordable to insure. For example, the Subaru Outback is consistently one of the cheapest cars to cover, thanks to its strong safety features. Similarly, SUVs like the Honda CR-V and the more compact Hyundai Venue are popular choices for their low insurance costs. If you’re looking for a dependable sedan, the Honda Civic often has favorable rates. Even trucks can be affordable; the Toyota Tacoma is frequently highlighted as a budget-friendly option. These models share common traits: they are not typically targets for theft, parts are widely available, and they have excellent safety records, all of which help keep your premiums down.

How Your ZIP Code Affects Your Quote

Your home address is more important than you might think. Insurance rates can vary not just by state but by ZIP code. If you live in a densely populated urban area with high rates of traffic, vandalism, and theft, you’ll likely pay more than someone living in a quiet, rural community. Each state also has its own laws and minimum coverage requirements, which establishes a baseline for insurance costs in that area. So, even if you don’t move, changes in your neighborhood’s accident or crime statistics can affect your premium at renewal time.

State-by-State Rate Differences

Because auto insurance is regulated at the state level, the rules can change dramatically when you cross state lines. Each state sets its own minimum liability requirements, and some even mandate specific coverages like Personal Injury Protection (PIP). This means the policy you buy in Texas will look different from one you’d get in New York. These state-specific regulations also influence which insurance companies operate in the area and what kinds of discounts they can offer. So, while a service like SelectQuote is available nationwide, the actual policies and prices you see are always customized to your state’s unique laws and insurance market. This is why your location is such a fundamental piece of the pricing puzzle.

Past Claims and Your Future Insurance Costs

Insurance companies are all about managing risk, so they pay close attention to your past claims. If you have a history of filing claims, especially within a short period, an insurer may view you as a higher risk and charge you a higher premium. This is why it’s sometimes wise to think twice before filing a claim for a very minor incident, as paying for a small repair out-of-pocket could save you more in the long run by keeping your rates down. Your claims history gives the insurer a glimpse into how likely you are to cost them money in the future.

How Your Age and Marital Status Affect Rates

Your life stage plays a significant role in what you pay for car insurance. Insurers rely on large sets of data to predict risk, and age is a key variable in their calculations. As NerdWallet points out, “Younger drivers (especially under 25) often pay more.” This is because statistics show they are more likely to be involved in accidents. As you get older and gain more driving experience, your rates typically decrease, which is good news for many seasoned drivers. Marital status can also be a factor in your premium. Many insurance companies offer slightly lower rates to married couples, as data suggests they tend to file fewer claims than single individuals.

The Role of Your Credit Score

This one can come as a surprise, but in many states, your credit history can influence your car insurance premium. Insurers use what’s called a credit-based insurance score to help predict the likelihood that you’ll file a claim. The logic is that individuals who manage their finances responsibly are also more likely to be responsible in other areas, including driving. The financial impact can be substantial. According to NerdWallet, “Poor credit can make your insurance about 67% more expensive than good credit.” It’s important to know that this practice is not allowed in every state, but where it is, a good credit score can be a valuable asset in securing a lower rate.

How Do SelectQuote’s Rates Compare to the Market?

Since SelectQuote isn’t an insurer, it doesn’t set its own rates. Instead, its value comes from its ability to quickly pull quotes from its network of partner companies, helping you find a competitive price. The rates you’re offered will come directly from carriers like Progressive or Travelers. This model is designed to save you the time and effort of visiting multiple websites and filling out the same information over and over. By presenting several options at once, they make it easier to see how different companies stack up for your specific needs, giving you a clearer picture of the market without the legwork.

One of the most effective ways to lower your costs is by bundling policies, and this is an area where a comparison service can be particularly helpful. For example, SelectQuote notes that customers save an average of $693 when they combine their home and auto insurance. This is a common discount across the industry and one that a broker can help you easily explore across multiple companies at once. Instead of just seeing the bundling discount from a single insurer, you can compare the bundled rates from several, ensuring you find the best overall value for your combined coverage.

Average Costs for Full vs. Minimum Coverage

The amount of coverage you choose is one of the biggest levers you can pull to adjust your premium. Minimum coverage, or liability-only, is the cheapest option because it only covers damages you cause to others. Full coverage adds collision and comprehensive protection for your own vehicle, which naturally costs more. The price difference can be significant. For example, data from NerdWallet shows that for liability-only coverage, GEICO is often one of the most affordable options, averaging around $41 per month. For full coverage, a company like Travelers might be the cheapest, averaging about $143 per month. Understanding this trade-off between cost and protection is key to choosing the right policy.

Cheapest Car Insurance Companies Overall

If you’re looking for a single answer to which company is the cheapest, you won’t find one. As NerdWallet explains, “The cheapest car insurance company is different for everyone.” Your ideal provider depends entirely on your unique profile. Factors like your driving record, the car you own, where you live, and the amount of coverage you need all come together to create your final premium. This is why comparison shopping is so critical. A company that offers the best rate to your friend might be one of the most expensive for you. The only way to know for sure is to gather quotes that are tailored to your specific situation.

How to Find Cheap Car Insurance with SelectQuote

Everyone loves a good deal, and car insurance is no different. While your premium is based on things like your driving history and the car you own, discounts are one of the best ways to lower your final cost. The good news is that most insurance companies offer a variety of ways to save, but they aren’t always advertised front and center. This is where working with a service like SelectQuote can be really helpful. Their agents are familiar with the discounts offered by different carriers and can help you identify which ones you qualify for. It’s all about knowing what to ask for, and they can help you find savings you might have missed on your own.

Save More by Bundling Your Policies

One of the easiest and most significant ways to save is by bundling your policies. This simply means you’re buying more than one type of insurance—like auto and home or renters—from the same company. Insurance carriers love this, and they reward you with a discount for your loyalty. According to SelectQuote, customers who bundle their policies save an average of $693. Not only does this cut down your costs, but it also simplifies your life by letting you manage multiple policies with a single provider. It’s a win-win that’s definitely worth asking about when you get your quotes.

Are You a Safe Driver? Get Rewarded

If you have a clean driving record, you should absolutely be rewarded for it. Insurance companies offer safe driver discounts to customers who avoid accidents and traffic violations. But the savings don’t stop there. Many carriers also provide discounts for customer loyalty, for being a student, or for military service. When you speak with a SelectQuote agent, make sure to mention any of these that might apply to you. These discounts can add up and make a real difference in your monthly premium, so it pays to be thorough and see what you’re eligible for.

More Ways to Save on Your Policy

Beyond the big ones like bundling and safe driving, there are often other discounts hiding in plain sight. The key is that you usually have to ask for them. Don’t assume every possible saving has been automatically applied to your quote. Ask your agent about potential discounts for things like taking a defensive driving course or enrolling in a safe driving program that uses telematics to monitor your habits. It might feel like you’re hunting for coupons, but a few simple questions could easily trim more off your bill. It never hurts to ask what other savings you might qualify for.

Discounts for Automatic Payments

Here’s a simple way to lower your premium: sign up for automatic payments. Many insurance companies offer a small discount when you have your monthly payment automatically withdrawn from your bank account or charged to a credit card. It might only be a few dollars a month, but those savings add up over the course of a year. Insurers like it because it guarantees they get paid on time, and they pass a bit of that administrative saving on to you. This is just one example of the many small discounts available that you might not know about unless you ask. Similar savings can often be found for going paperless with your billing or paying your entire premium upfront.

Shop Annually to Find the Best Rates

It’s tempting to find a policy you like and stick with it for years, but that loyalty could be costing you. Auto insurance isn’t a “set it and forget it” purchase. Rates change often, and the company that gave you the best deal last year might not be the most competitive one this year. That’s why it’s a smart financial habit to compare quotes from at least three different insurers every year before your policy renews. The cheapest car insurance company is different for everyone, as it depends on your age, driving record, and even your ZIP code. Taking an hour once a year to shop around ensures you’re not overpaying and that you always have the best rate available for your specific situation.

Ready to Buy? Here’s How to Get Your Policy

If you decide to move forward with SelectQuote, the process is fairly straightforward. It’s designed to take you from initial curiosity to a purchased policy with guidance along the way. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect.

Step 1: Start with Your Free Quote

The process begins when you request a quote, which you can do online or over the phone. You’ll provide some basic information about yourself, your vehicle, and your driving history. This first step is all about gathering the initial data needed to see what’s out there. SelectQuote’s main goal is to help you compare insurance plans and prices from different companies in one spot. Think of it as the starting point that gives you a broad overview of potential options that might fit your budget and coverage needs.

Step 2: Connect with a Licensed Agent

After you’ve submitted your information for a quote, you’ll connect with a licensed agent. This is where the service becomes more personalized. The agent will call you to discuss your needs in more detail, asking questions about your budget, your driving habits, and what you’re looking for in a policy. They use this conversation to understand your specific situation. Based on what you tell them, the agent will then sort through plans from their partner companies to find a few that seem like a good match for you.

Step 3: Tailor Your Coverage Options

With your information in hand, the agent will present you with a few tailored policy options. You’ll get to see specific quotes from some of SelectQuote’s partner carriers, which include well-known names like Progressive, Safeco, and Travelers. This is your opportunity to compare the details of each plan, from coverage limits to deductibles. You can work with the agent to adjust the policy until it feels right for you. They can help explain the fine print and answer any questions you have before you make a final decision.

What if You Need to File a Claim?

It’s important to know that SelectQuote’s role ends once you’ve purchased your policy. Because they are an insurance broker, their job is to connect you with an insurance company. If you get into an accident and need to file a claim, you won’t call SelectQuote. Instead, you will work directly with the insurance carrier that issued your policy, such as Progressive or Safeco. All the contact information for claims and customer service will be on your official policy documents, so be sure to keep those in a safe place.

How to Choose the Right Car Insurance Policy

After you’ve received a few quotes and spoken with an agent, you’ve reached the most important part of the process: deciding which policy is the right one for you. This is about more than just picking the one with the lowest monthly payment. A great policy gives you peace of mind, knowing you’re protected without overpaying. To get there, you need to look closely at the details, weigh your options, and understand what you’re truly paying for. Let’s walk through a few key steps to help you make a confident choice that fits your life and your budget.

Don’t Skip the Fine Print

An insurance policy is a contract, and it’s essential to understand what you’re agreeing to before you sign. Don’t hesitate to ask your agent direct questions, like what the policy doesn’t cover—these are often called exclusions. Confirm the deductible, which is the amount you’ll pay out of pocket before your coverage kicks in. A higher deductible usually means a lower premium, but make sure it’s an amount you could comfortably afford on short notice. Understanding these key insurance terms will help you feel much more in control of your decision.

Comparing Your Top Car Insurance Quotes

Once you have a few solid quotes, lay them out side-by-side. This is where using a service like SelectQuote really helps, as they’ve already done some of the legwork for you. Look beyond the premium price. Does one policy offer better roadside assistance? Is the coverage limit for property damage higher on another? Comparing your final choices isn’t just about finding the cheapest rate; it’s about identifying the best value. You’re looking for the sweet spot where comprehensive coverage meets a price that fits your budget. This process ensures you don’t leave better protection on the table just to save a few dollars a month.

Look Beyond the Premium: The True Cost

Your insurance rate is a personalized number based on a whole host of factors. Insurers look at your driving record, your age, where you park your car at night, and even the type of car you drive. Your credit history and the amount of coverage you select also play a big role in the final price. Understanding what affects your car insurance rates can help you see why your quote looks the way it does. The “true cost” includes your premium, your deductible, and the financial risk you take on if your coverage falls short after an accident. A cheap plan might feel good now, but it could be costly later.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Getting Quotes

When you’re eager to find a good rate, it’s easy to rush through the quoting process, but a few common missteps can cause major headaches later. The first is providing inaccurate information. It might be tempting to fudge the numbers on your annual mileage or forget a minor fender bender, but honesty is crucial. If an insurer discovers incorrect details, they could deny a future claim or even cancel your policy. The second mistake is focusing only on the price tag. The cheapest policy is rarely the best one. It’s important to compare the actual coverage and make sure it provides enough protection for your assets, not just the lowest possible monthly payment.

Key Questions to Ask Your Agent

Treat your conversation with an agent as an interview where you’re in charge. Don’t be afraid to ask specific questions to make sure you understand exactly what you’re buying. Start with the basics: “How much insurance do I really need?” While states have minimum requirements, your personal situation might call for more. Then, get into the details. Ask, “What deductible do you suggest for me?” and “What discounts can I get?” Finally, and most importantly, ask, “What things are not covered by this policy?” Understanding a policy’s exclusions is just as important as knowing what is covered, as it prevents surprises when you need to file a claim.

Deciding How Much Coverage You Really Need

The legal minimum coverage required by your state is just a starting point, and it’s often not enough to fully protect you in a serious accident. Insurance experts frequently suggest getting more than the basic required coverage for better financial protection. To make the right choice, it helps to understand the main types of car insurance coverage. Liability protects you if you’re at fault, while collision covers damage to your own car from a crash. Comprehensive handles non-collision events like theft or storm damage. Think about your personal assets and what you could afford to pay out-of-pocket. Choosing higher limits might increase your premium slightly, but it could save you from financial disaster down the road.

Your Final Checklist Before You Commit

Before you make your final decision, run through this quick checklist. First, ask about bundling. You can often save a significant amount by purchasing your auto insurance from the same company that provides your home or renters insurance. Next, be sure you’ve gotten every discount you’re entitled to. Ask about savings for being a safe driver, a loyal customer, or a military member. Finally, remember that the goal is adequate protection. The cheapest policy isn’t always the best. Make sure the coverage limits are high enough to protect your assets and give you real security on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is SelectQuote my actual insurance provider? No, it’s helpful to think of SelectQuote as an insurance marketplace or a broker, not the company that insures your car. Their role is to help you compare plans from many different insurance companies. When you buy a policy, your contract and coverage will be with a well-known carrier like Progressive or Travelers, not with SelectQuote itself.

Does it cost me anything to use SelectQuote? Their comparison service is completely free for you to use. SelectQuote makes money by earning a commission from the insurance company you ultimately choose to buy a policy from. This is a standard industry practice, so you don’t have to worry about hidden fees or receiving a separate bill for their help.

If I have an accident, do I file a claim with SelectQuote? Once you’ve purchased your policy, SelectQuote’s job is done. For any future needs, including filing a claim, making a payment, or asking questions about your coverage, you will work directly with the insurance company that issued your policy. All the necessary contact information will be on your official insurance documents.

Why shouldn’t I just get quotes directly from insurance companies myself? You absolutely can, but it requires more time and effort. The main advantage of using a service like SelectQuote is efficiency. Instead of filling out separate applications on multiple websites, you provide your information once and can see several options side-by-side. It simplifies the comparison shopping process so you can get a broader view of the market more quickly.

Is the first quote I see the guaranteed final price? You should treat the initial quote as a strong estimate rather than a final, locked-in price. The premium can sometimes be adjusted after the insurance carrier does a full review of your driving history and other personal information. It’s always a good practice to confirm the final cost with the agent before you commit to the policy.

Are There Alternatives to Using a Quote Comparison Site?

While a service like SelectQuote offers a convenient starting point, it’s helpful to know it’s not your only path to finding the right auto insurance. Their platform shows you options from their specific network of partners, but that isn’t the entire market. If you want to be certain you’re seeing every possible option, or if you prefer a more personal touch, there are other excellent ways to shop for a policy. Exploring these alternatives can sometimes lead to better rates, more suitable coverage, and a more supportive customer experience. Taking a little extra time to look beyond a single comparison tool can give you greater confidence in your final decision.

Working with an Independent Insurance Agent

One of the most effective alternatives is to work with an independent insurance agent. Unlike agents at a large brokerage who are limited to a curated list of partners, an independent agent has the freedom to shop around for you across a much wider range of insurance companies. This gives you a more complete view of your options. An independent agent can also provide dedicated, one-on-one support, getting to know your specific needs and finding policies that truly fit. This personalized approach is especially valuable when you have unique circumstances or simply want the confidence that comes from having a trusted professional in your corner.

Considering Smaller, Regional Insurers

Another smart strategy is to look into smaller, regional insurance companies. While SelectQuote partners with many large, reputable national carriers, they don’t include every insurer out there. Smaller companies that focus on a specific state or region can sometimes offer more competitive rates because they have a better handle on local risks and driving conditions. They might also provide more tailored coverage options that you won’t find with the bigger players. While it takes a bit more research to find these local gems, exploring them can uncover a policy that offers better value and is a perfect fit for where you live.