Insurance is a valuable tool for managing risk and providing financial security. When you purchase an insurance policy, you’re essentially making an agreement with the insurer about how costs will be shared in the event of a covered loss. A crucial element of this agreement is the deductible. In this article, we’ll demystify deductibles and explain how they can impact your insurance premiums.

What is a Deductible?

A deductible is the amount of money you agree to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in to cover the remaining costs of a claim. Deductibles are a common feature in various types of insurance.

Here’s how they work:

• Let’s say you have a $1,000 deductible on your auto insurance policy.
• You get into an accident, and the repair costs total $5,000.
• You’ll pay the first $1,000 (your deductible), and your insurance will cover the remaining $4,000.

The Relationship Between Deductibles and Premiums

The deductible amount you choose can have a significant impact on your insurance premiums. In general, there’s an inverse relationship between deductibles and premiums:

• Higher Deductibles: Choosing a higher deductible (e.g., $1,000 or more) usually results in lower insurance premiums. This means you’ll pay less for insurance each month or year.
• Lower Deductibles: Opting for a lower deductible (e.g., $250 or $500) typically leads to higher insurance premiums. You’ll pay more for insurance regularly, but you’ll have lower out-of-pocket costs when making a claim.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Deductible

Selecting the right deductible depends on your financial situation, risk tolerance, and budget. Here are some considerations:

• Emergency Fund: Do you have enough savings to cover the deductible comfortably in case of a claim?
• Risk Tolerance: How much financial risk are you willing to take on? A higher deductible means you’re responsible for more of the initial costs in a claim.
• Premium Costs: Evaluate how much you can save on premiums by choosing a higher deductible.

Let BCM help you find the right deductible and insurance plan to maximize your coverage while minimizing costs. Contact a BCM Advisor today for personalized insurance guidance and a plan that suits your budget and risk tolerance.