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- You can get lower car insurance rates based on your marital status, but the exact savings vary by state, company and each spouse’s driving record.
- On average, married drivers can save up to 9% on insurance, depending on the insurer and individual’s driving history.
- Insurers view married drivers as more stable and less risky, which can translate to lower premiums, especially if both spouses have clean driving records.
- If your spouse has a poor driving history, a high-risk vehicle or you move to an area with higher accident rates, your premium could go up.
- It’s important to compare quotes and consider bundling your policies to see if you can save more together.
Getting married changes more than just your relationship status; it’s going to influence your finances in ways you might not expect. One of the subtler perks? Lower car insurance premiums.
Based on decades of claims data, many insurers view married drivers as lower risk than their single counterparts, which can translate into savings of up to 9% on auto insurance premiums.
But why does tying the knot make you seem like a safer bet behind the wheel, and does this marital discount apply to everyone? Let’s break it down for you.
How much do married drivers save on car insurance?
Married drivers typically save an average of 9% on their policy, though the exact discount varies by insurer, state, driving history and coverage levels.
Insurance companies base this discount on long-standing claims data showing that, on average, married drivers file fewer accidents and insurance claims than single drivers.
The savings may be even higher when couples bundle multiple vehicles on the same policy or combine auto insurance with home or renters coverage, while drivers with poor records or high-risk factors may see a smaller discount or none at all.
Should you combine policies or keep separate coverage after marriage?
For most newly married couples, combining your car insurance policies makes sense. Insurers usually give bigger discounts when you bundle multiple vehicles on one policy, plus any marriage-based savings they offer. It also streamlines payments, renewals and claims, so you’re not juggling separate policies or dealing with different insurance companies.
However, there are times when keeping separate policies might work better. If one spouse has a spotless driving record and the other has recent tickets or accidents, two policies could keep the lower-risk driver’s premium from going up.
To determine the best strategy for you, compare quotes for both combined and standalone policies and evaluate the total cost and coverage.
Can marriage raise your car insurance costs instead of lowering them?
Yes, while marriage usually lowers car insurance rates, there are situations where it can actually raise costs.
- One of you has a bad driving record: If your partner has a history of accidents, DUIs or traffic violations, it can raise the premium on a shared policy. Insurance companies factor in both drivers’ records when calculating premiums.
- You live in a high-risk area: Your ZIP code plays a significant role in your premium. If you move in together after marriage and your new location has higher theft rates, accidents or claims, your insurance might increase.
- Age and vehicle type: If one of you is significantly younger or drives a high-performance or luxury vehicle, the combined risk may outweigh any marriage-related discount. Insurers calculate risk based on more than just relationship status.
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How to maximize marriage-related insurance savings
If you’re getting married or already are, you can save money on your car insurance costs. Insurers often see married drivers as lower risk, which can translate into real savings. Here’s how to make the most of marriage-related discounts:
- Combine your policies for multi-car discounts. This is where the real savings kick in. If you and your spouse each have a car, insuring both vehicles under a single policy can unlock a multi-car discount.
- Bundle your home and auto insurance. Save 14% on your policy by bundling your car insurance with homeowners insurance with the same provider.
- Shop around and compare before committing. Don’t just add your spouse to your existing policy. Instead, get quotes from multiple insurers to see which companies offer the best rates for married couples.
- Update your marital status immediately. Contact your insurer as soon as you’re married to update your status. Some companies require notification within 30 days of major life changes to avoid coverage issues.
Can marriage save you money on car insurance? Here’s the final verdict
Marriage doesn’t automatically lower your car insurance bill, but it does give you more leverage as a policyholder. Being married often opens the door to additional pricing options, such as multi-car policies, higher bundling discounts and simplified coverage management, all of which can improve your overall cost.
Couples who review coverage together, adjust deductibles strategically and re-shop their insurance after major life changes tend to benefit the most. In other words, marriage creates opportunities for savings, but thoughtful planning is what turns those opportunities into actual dollars saved.
Frequently Asked Questions: Married drivers
Do I have to tell my insurance company I got married?
Yes, you should notify your insurance company of your marriage. Marriage is considered a major life change, and updating your marital status can make you eligible for lower rates or additional discounts. Some insurers also require you to report changes like marriage within a certain time frame, so it’s best to update your policy as soon as possible.
Does a domestic partnership qualify for marriage discounts?
It depends on the insurance company. Some insurers offer similar discounts for domestic partners or long-term cohabitating couples, while others reserve those savings strictly for legally married couples. If you’re in a domestic partnership, ask your insurer directly what documentation they require and whether you qualify for the same discounts.
What if my spouse and I have different insurance companies?
That’s very common, especially before marriage. After you’re married, you can compare costs to see whether it makes sense to combine policies with one insurer. In many cases, switching to a single provider can help you get a discount, but it’s not always cheaper. Getting quotes from both companies and a few new ones will help you decide the most cost-effective option.
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