The coverage that your personal auto policy (PAP) provides can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Aside from any required minimum coverages that may apply (and subject to financial concerns), you can select the coverages and amounts you’d like. In addition to the various coverage options, there are also general policy options. Within certain parameters, you can make decisions here as well.
Your PAP is only in effect during the policy period. This period of time is determined when you enter into the contract with the insurer. Typically, auto policies are in effect for one year. You may also be able to purchase auto insurance for longer or shorter periods of time.
Generally speaking, your premiums should be slightly lower when you purchase a policy with a longer period. With longer policies, the insurer can spread out the administrative costs of writing the policy over a longer period of time.
Canceling the policy
Although you can cancel your PAP at any time before the expiration date of the policy, insurers have procedures that must be followed in order to do so. If you ever cancel before the end of the policy agreement there may also be a cancellation fee or penalty. Therefore, it’s advisable to check first if you ever find yourself considering early cancellation.
Paying your premium
Insurers typically give you three general options for paying your insurance premium:
Pay the entire annual premium up front,
Make a down payment on the premium and then divide the remainder into monthly installments, or
Each method has pros and cons. Paying the entire amount up front might be financially impossible for you, but if you can afford it, you can expect to receive some savings. A payment plan, for most, is the preferred approach, but you can expect to pay an additional small service fee in order to enjoy this convenience.
