Quick tips for newlyweds: Insurance checkup

Making household financial decisions as a newlywed can be a chore. Deciding which companies to do business with and what products or services you need can be difficult without some steering or support. Those decisions can be even more complex if you or your partner are part of the military. So, whether you're new to USAA, a new military spouse or just trying to navigate all things insurance, we're here to help.

This guide will walk you through the different types of insurance, how to review your insurance needs and how to make sure you're getting the right coverage and rates for your unique situation.

What kind of insurance do you need?

Homeowners and renters insurance

When a storm rolls in, a leak happens or if someone breaks into your home, having the right insurance in place can help protect you financially.

If you own your home, having the right amount of homeowners coverage is important to help protect your property. You want to also look at your deductibles, coverage limits and other coverages that can help you if you have a claim.

If you're living in a rental home or apartment, you may already have renters insurance. It's common that your landlord or leasing company requires you to carry a policy. But with your new marriage, do you know if you have enough coverage?

If you or your partner are in the military, USAA Renters Insurance may cover your military uniforms and equipment worldwide.^{See note1See note,See note2}

Auto insurance

Maybe your driving habits changed. Or perhaps you moved or your new spouse is now a driver of your car. Whatever the situation, it's time to go over your auto insurance. Review your options so you can be sure you have the right coverage at the best rates available.

You may be eligible for new discounts with multiple drivers on your policy. Other ways to reduce your costs may be available, like safe driving features or programs.

Personal property

Your stuff may have just doubled, depending on what you kept – or were allowed to keep. Do you have enough coverage in place to cover the cost to repair or replace things like your TVs, computers or clothing? What about any family antiques or valuable jewelry like that new wedding ring?

While your renters policy or homeowners insurance will cover your personal items, some things may have coverage limits. If you have unique items, collectibles or property that the value exceeds your renters or homeowners policies, add this to your to-do list: a Valuable Personal Property (VPP) policy.

Umbrella insurance

It's not always about the things that happen to you or your stuff. Sometimes financial risk happens when something you own causes injury to someone or damage to something.

You don't need to be a millionaire to be sued like one. If your underlying liability coverage on your renters or homeowners policy is less than your net worth (what you own minus what you owe), then it may be a good idea to consider getting additional liability coverage through an umbrella policy.

Health insurance

Getting married usually is considered a qualifying event in which you can be added or add your spouse or partner to your respective health insurance plans. Health insurance can be a critical component of your overall financial well-being. Learn more about shopping for health insurance and the key terms to know.

Life insurance

Marriage means that you are connected to each other, emotionally and often financially. When you're financially dependent on someone else and they're dependent on you, you may need life insurance. Life insurance can help offset the financial burden that you could face if your partner dies. Learn more about the basics and key terms of life insurance.

Ways to save on your insurance

Bundling

Bundling or having your insurance with a single carrier may help you save on your overall insurance costs. Many insurance companies offer multi-policy discounts. For example, having auto and homeowners insurance could give you a discount on your premiums.

Check for discounts

Having multiple drivers on the same policy or taking defensive driving courses can provide additional auto insurance discounts. Technology can help you save money on your auto insurance, too. Consider an in-car device or a safe driving app.

Check if there are any discounts that you may qualify for based on safety or preventative items in your home like alarm systems. Discounts may be available for monitoring, water-detection sensors or smart home systems.

Review your policies at least yearly

If you're driving less than you have in prior years, it may be worthwhile to review your coverage. Fewer miles on the road may mean more money in your pocket. Life can change fast, and when you have a key life event like getting married, do your financial housekeeping and talk through your insurance policies with your partner to make sure you have the right types and amounts of coverage in place.

Manage your policies with the USAA app

Our mobile app is your best resource to conveniently review your policies, get new coverage as needed and review your overall financial well-being. Whether it's making a change to your policies or even filing a claim, you can manage the majority of your needs through the USAA mobile app.

Filing a claim is as easy as creating a claim notification, uploading pictures and estimates and communicating with your adjuster — all from the convenience of your phone or mobile device. And of course, usaa.com and our team of world-class service representatives are here for you as well.