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What is gap insurance and why would I need it?

I have looked everywhere and don't understand what gap insurance means. What's an easy explanation of it? I'm buying my first car and I don't understand if I need it.

avatar
Emily Maracle · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“
Gap insurance
 stands for guaranteed asset protection.
Because vehicles lose value every year, cars aren’t worth what you originally paid for them. You may owe more on your loan than the current actual cash value of your vehicle. Gap insurance covers that difference if your car is marked a total loss after an accident or theft.
For example: you purchase your new car for $25,000. In one year, your car may only be worth 80% of that ($20,000), but you still owe $21,000 on your loan. If your car is totaled in an accident, you would owe the $1,000 left on your loan. Gap insurance would pay that $1,000 balance.
If you’re looking for gap insurance,
car insurance
 companies often offer it. Reach out to your current carrier or shop around to find competitive rates. “
Car Insurance
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