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How do you buy a car insurance policy?

I need to get new car insurance, and I want to make sure I'm getting a good deal. What’s the best way to buy insurance?

avatar
Joshua Levy · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
You can buy a car insurance policy through a broker, agent, or directly from a provider.
But keep in mind that buying coverage is much easier than
finding a good deal
. Here are a few steps you should take to make sure you get the best possible rate:
  • Step 1: Decide on the coverage you want. Knowing what you want before you start asking for quotes will help you get a more accurate estimate of how much car insurance will cost. If you aren’t sure what you want, you can start by looking at your state’s
    minimum insurance requirements
    .
  • Step 2: Gather the information you need. You’ll need to know your VIN, car make/model, mileage, prior insurance information, and personal information to get an accurate quote.
  • Step 3: Gather quotes. Get quotes from at least three insurance providers and compare the offers.
  • Step 4: Pick a provider. Your cheapest option won’t always be your best. Consider your needs and pick a company that you feel will best meet them.
  • Step 5: Buy your new policy and cancel your old one. Only cancel your old policy once you have a new one. Lapses in coverage can lead to increased car insurance rates.
If this sounds like too much work, you can always make it easier with
Jerry
. A licensed broker, the Jerry app can help you gather and compare quotes from the top insurance providers in minutes. Jerry can even help you purchase your new plan and cancel your old policy. All you need to do is pick the coverage that works best for you, and Jerry will do the rest!
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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