7 Tips Toward Helping You Reduce Your Insurance Costs

Not a year goes by that insurance rates go up. At least it seems that way. You can control ? even reduce ? your insurance expenses by following these seven easy to remember tips.

1. Combine Policies. If you own a home and you own a car, purchase your insurance from the same company. Some insurance companies reward those customers who choose to bundle their insurance together with discounts as high as 10%.

2. Adjust Your Deductibles. Perhaps you don't need a $200 home deduction. If you can live with a deductible of $500 or more you can save significantly from year to year.

3. Special Discounts. Depending on your age, there may be special discounts you can take that will also reduce your premiums.

4. Examine Your Policy. Oh, we do think they are correct ? right? Well, if your address is incorrect you could be paying more than you should. Check to make sure that your correct zip code is listed...it could cost you money if your insurer has you living in another neighborhood.

5. Abstain From Bad Habits. If you do not smoke or drink, make sure that your insurance company knows this. Your rate will drop accordingly if this is news to them.

6. Eat Your Losses. If you have a small claim, consider not submitting this information to the insurance company. Any claims you make can push up your rates down the road thereby costing your more in the long run.

7. Pay Now, Save Later. Instead of breaking up your premium into monthly payments, consider paying the entire premium at one time. Usually, insurers tack on a surcharge for the privilege of monthly payments.

You may also be able to save yourself some money by sticking with one insurer as they will reward regular customers with "loyalty" discounts. In addition, it may pay for you to have an alarm installed on your car or home, especially if you live in a higher crime area. Finally, meet with your broker from time to time to see how you can reduce your payments.

Matt Keegan is The Article Writer who covers topics from business to human interest to politics. You can view his site at http://www.thearticlewriter.com