Use our tips to get the best deal on insurance, protect yourself from fraud, and learn what to do when you have a problem.
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Getting help with an insurance complaint
We can help with issues you’re having with your insurance company, agent, or adjuster. And learn about the most common complaints we receive.
Is your auto policy up for renewal? Here’s what to look for.
Most insurance companies renew your auto insurance every six months. It's a good time to look at your policy to be sure you're getting the coverages you need at a price you can afford.
When do policies pay for additional living expenses?
Most home, renters, and condo insurance pay some additional living expenses if you can’t live in your house while your insurance is paying to repair it.
Home insurance: What structures are covered?
Most policies define “other structures” as structures that aren’t attached to your house.
Umbrella policy: What is it and when do you need one?
Most insurance policies – like home and auto – only pay up to a certain amount for liability coverage. Umbrella policies offer more.
Was your home insurance canceled or not renewed?
Insurance companies decide to cancel or not renew home insurance policies for various reasons. If this happens, start shopping for a new policy.
Hail damage to your home or car? What to do next.
File an insurance claim as soon as you can if hail or strong winds damaged your home or car.
Public adjusters: What to know before you hire one to help with your claim
Learn about hiring a public adjuster if your homeowners claim is denied or you think your insurance company should pay more for repairs.
How to avoid costly mistakes with your health plan
Learn ways to avoid costly mistakes when you use your health insurance and go to the doctor.
How to get insurance for a manufactured home
Learn about your options if you’re shopping for homeowners insurance for your manufactured home.
Lower your home insurance cost by asking for discounts
Ask your insurance company if you’re getting all the home insurance discounts you qualify for. Here are some of the most common discounts.
Ways to save money on home insurance
Did your homeowners premium go up? Use these tips to see if you can get a lower rate.
What is windstorm insurance?
Windstorm insurance pays to repair or rebuild your house if it’s damaged by hail or wind, from a tornado, thunderstorm, or hurricane. Some people call it hurricane insurance.
Steps to getting your home or car insurance claim paid
Steps to help you understand the claims process for home and auto insurance claims.
What’s disability insurance and how does it work?
You can buy disability insurance to replace part of your income if you get hurt or sick and can’t work.
Accident not your fault? Here's how to deal with the other driver's insurance.
Steps to take when you think the other driver caused your accident but you’re not sure what to do next.
Retirement ahead? Think about your insurance.
Ask yourself some questions about your insurance to make sure you have the coverage you need when you retire.
Shopping for a health plan? Make sure you get what you pay for.
Tips to make sure you get what you pay for when health plan shopping.
Moving to Texas? What to know about insurance.
Before you buy your boxes and pack up, take some time to get your insurance in order and learn how it might work differently here. It will be one thing you can check off your to-do list.
Ways to save money on car insurance
Discover practical strategies for reducing your car insurance premium and saving money. Learn tips and tricks for lowering your car insurance costs today.
What to know about continuing care retirement communities
Tips for yourself or a family member moving into a continuing care retirement community (CCRC).
Insurance for RVs: Know your coverages
Be sure you have the insurance coverage you need for your RV or motorhome.
Do you have enough insurance coverage to pay for home or car repairs?
With the cost of nearly everything increasing, it’s a good time to look at your insurance to be sure you have enough auto and home coverage.
Grill tips for your next tailgate or cookout
There’s nothing more Texan than burgers and barbecue on a summer day. Follow these tips to make sure your cookout is a safe one.
What is private mortgage insurance? Learn why you might need it.
Private mortgage insurance protects your lender if you stop making mortgage payments.
Outdoor burning: What to know before you light the match
Most wildfires start with someone being careless. Make sure you know when you can burn outdoors and how to do so safely.
Are you prepared for a tornado? Here’s how to protect your home
Texas gets more tornadoes than any other state. When a tornado is coming, your only priority should be to get to a safe place. But there are things you can do ahead of time to prepare your home for these dangerous storms.
How to avoid scams after the death of a loved one
When it comes to making a quick buck, scammers don’t care who they victimize. We’ve compiled a list of common scams to avoid.
How to stay safe in the summer heat
Summers in Texas can be scorchers. Prepare your house and your family to be ready for the next heat wave.
How to save on home and car insurance by staying safe
You can save money on your house and car insurance by deterring criminals and preventing accidents.
Home building or renovation worries? Ask your contractor to buy a surety bond.
Building or renovating a house can be exciting and expensive. And you might be nervous thinking about everything that could go wrong. Asking your contractor to buy a surety bond could give you peace of mind.
How to avoid scams aimed at older adults
When it comes to making a quick buck, scammers don’t care who they victimize. Here are two common scams that target older adults and tips to help avoid them.
Ask for discounts to lower your auto insurance premium amount
Getting discounts is a great way to save on your auto insurance. Your company should sign you up for the discounts you qualify for, but it never hurts to ask about them and make sure. Companies don’t always offer the same discounts, but here are some common types you might get.
How to make your house winter ready
Before settling in for winter, prepare the inside and outside of your home.
Winter storms: Tips for preparing your house and pipes
How to protect your home and property in freezing weather.
Is your home policy up for renewal? Here’s what to look for.
Did you ignore that email or letter about renewing your homeowners insurance? Read it to make sure you’re not being overcharged or getting less coverage than you need.
How to avoid Medicare scams
With 4 million Texans using Medicare benefits, you can bet scammers are on the prowl. Use our tips to avoid becoming a victim:
Delivering packages? What to know about auto insurance
If you’ve turned restaurant or package delivery into a side hustle or a full-time job, make sure you have the right auto insurance coverage. Here’s what to ask.
Do I need insurance to run a daycare in my home?
Do you run a small daycare out of your home? If you do, or you’re thinking about starting one, here’s what you need to know about insurance.
Does my auto insurance cover my carpool in an accident?
Will your auto insurance cover an accident if you’re in a carpool? Ask these four questions to find out.
How to keep your dogs, cats, and other pets safe from fire
Pet safety in fires; tips to keep dogs, cats and pets safe from fire.
Adding a teen driver to your insurance policy?
If there’s a new teen driver in your household, you need to insure them. Adding a teen driver to your policy can be expensive, so check with your agent or insurance company first. They’ll help you find discounts and other ways to save money. Here’s what you need to know.
Collectibles: Why you may need extra insurance coverage
A standard homeowners or renters insurance policy may not cover collectibles and rare items. We explain how to insure them.
How can I avoid scams when I buy a used vehicle?
With many used car and truck sales taking place on an app or online, a lot can go wrong. Here are tips for avoiding auto scams.
Smoke alarms: Where to put them, how often to replace batteries
Nearly all alarm failures are caused by missing or dead batteries. A working smoke alarm cuts your risk of dying in a home fire in half.
How to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning at home
Carbon monoxide is an invisible killer. See why you need to get and maintain detectors in your home.
Five things your home policy won’t cover
Your home policy pays for damages from fire, tornadoes, hailstorms, and theft. But it doesn’t pay for repairs caused by other issues. Here are five things it doesn’t cover.
How to protect yourself from social media identity theft
If you use social media, you could be a target for identity theft. You can buy identity theft insurance – or it might be included in your homeowners or renters policy. But taking simple steps to protect your social media accounts can help you avoid most scams.
When should I call an ambulance, and how can I save money when I do?
An ambulance ride can be expensive, especially if the ambulance service isn’t in your health plan network. Here are some things to consider ahead of time.
What insurance do I need to run a business from home?
Running a home business? Your home policy may not cover all the equipment you rely on or injuries to your employees and customers. Here’s what you need to know.
When are water damage and mold covered by insurance?
Water damage to your home can be expensive and time-consuming to repair. Here’s what you need to know about your insurance coverage and how to prevent more damage.
How to protect your family from a home fire
A home fire can be devastating. The good news is most fires are preventable. Here are simple steps you can take to protect your family from fire.
Auto theft and insurance: How to protect your ride
Common sense prevention can help keep your vehicle and the things in it safer. But what happens if thieves break in or steal your ride? Here’s what you need to know.
How to avoid the most common insurance mistakes
Avoid these big mistakes to save money and get the coverage you need.
Does insurance cover ATVs and golf carts?
Many Texans use small vehicles to get around for work and play. Maybe you use an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) when you go hunting or a golf cart for short trips in your neighborhood.
What to know about winter fire safety
The holidays often come with wintry weather. Whether you’re celebrating or trying to keep warm, keep these fire safety tips in mind. They can save lives and protect your property.
Space heater safety: Tips to prevent fires
A space heater can be a cost-effective way to stay warm, but it can also be a fire hazard. In the last few years, several fatal fires in Texas were started by space heaters. Here are tips for keeping your family safe.
What you need to know about telehealth
Not sure if an illness or injury is serious? Can't get a same-day appointment with your doctor? Telehealth might be a good option for you. Telehealth includes all the ways you can interact with a medical professional without being in the same room. Here’s what you need to know.
Flood insurance: Why you need a policy
If it can rain, it can flood. And your home insurance policy doesn’t cover flood damage. To make sure your property is covered, you’ll need a separate flood policy.
Using a generator? Stay safe from carbon monoxide
If you lose power, having a portable generator can be a life saver. But if you don’t use your generator properly, it can be deadly.
How to escape from a house fire
Would your family know what to do if they woke up to the sound of an alarm with smoke all around? You need a fire escape plan to get everyone out quickly and safely.
Can I sell my life insurance policy?
A life insurance policy, whether it’s a term life or whole life policy, is your personal property. You can sell it just as you would anything else you own, but there are some things to consider.
How to save money on insurance and health care
These six suggestions can help you trim your insurance costs and stretch your budget.
Help for military members and spouses who work in insurance
The Texas Department of Insurance is offering a helping hand to those serving our country. Here are some incentives Texas offers insurance professionals in the military:
Will my premium go up if I file a claim?
It depends on the type of claim and how many you file. But, yes, your home and auto premiums can go up if you file claims. You could also lose any discounts you’re getting for being claim free.
How you drive could save you money on car insurance
Many auto insurance companies offer policies that adjust what you pay based on how much you drive or how well you drive. Here are some things to know when deciding if this type of policy is right for you.
Home insurance policies: All risk or named peril
Learn about the differences between all-risk policies and named perils policies in homeowners insurance.
Wildfire risks: Projects to help you protect your home
There are several simple steps you can take to protect your home from a wildfire. Make each of these a weekend project, and you’ll be ready in no time.
Hurricane season: How to prepare your home and property
Hurricane season begins June 1. Is your home ready? Here’s what you need to know before the next storm heads your way.
Prevent kitchen fires with our cooking safety tips
Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and home injuries, according to the National Fire Protection Association. The State Fire Marshal Office investigates several fires a year caused by cooking.
Thinking about a new job? Don’t forget the insurance.
Whether you’ve landed the job of your dreams or you’re ready for a career change, don’t forget to think about how changing jobs could affect your insurance.
How do I find an insurance agent or company?
Whether you’re buying a policy for the first time or shopping for a better deal, choosing an agent or company can seem overwhelming. But we can help.
Need health insurance? How to find a new health plan now.
Most insurance companies only sell health plans during an open enrollment period that starts in November. There are other options if you need health insurance.
How to save money at the doctor
Asking a few questions about your health insurance and knowing your options can protect your wallet after a doctor’s visit.
How consumers are protected from surprise medical bills
Patients get surprise medical bills if they get care outside their health plan’s network without realizing it. State and federal laws protect patients from surprise medical bills.
Is it OK for a contractor to waive my deductible?
No. A deductible is part of your home insurance policy. It’s illegal for contractors to waive your deductible or help you avoid paying it.
Five winter driving safety tips to keep your family safe
Even in Texas, winter weather can turn your daily commute into an icy obstacle course. These tips can help you stay safe if you take to the road in the cold.
How to get a CLUE about your claims history
Wondering how much it will cost to insure that home you’re thinking of buying? Or why you’re paying more for home insurance than your neighbor? You may want to check the property’s history of insurance claims.
What is title insurance? Why do I need it for my new house?
Title insurance protects you from problems with an ownership title when you buy real estate. These may be problems that existed before the purchase, such as: (1) unpaid property taxes, (2) fraud or forgery of previous paperwork, or (3) a spouse or unknown heir who claims they own the property.
Home insurance: What you need to know before buying a policy
If you’re shopping for home insurance, here are five questions you should ask about every policy you consider.
How to keep your family safe in your RV
RVs, motorhomes, and campers can help you feel at home when you’re on the road. But because you can use them for living as well as traveling, there are unique fire safety issues to keep in mind.
Home policies: Replacement cost or actual cash value?
Most home insurance policies pay to repair or replace your damaged home and items based on current costs. This allows you to rebuild, make repairs, and replace things with items similar to your damaged items. This is called replacement cost coverage.
Health insurance: 5 things you may not know
Traditional health insurance, the kind you get through your employer or buy on Healthcare.gov, covers a wide range of services if you get sick or hurt. This is called major medical or comprehensive health insurance.
Do you have enough home insurance?
Could you rebuild if a tornado or fire destroys your home? Some experts say half of all homes may not have enough insurance. Here are tips to make sure you have the right amount of coverage.
Do I need to buy insurance when I rent a car?
Some rental car companies will offer to sell you insurance when you rent a car on vacation. Should you buy it? Here’s what you need to know before you pay for their coverage.
Do I need insurance for my self-storage unit?
If you keep furniture, collectibles, or valuables in a self-storage unit, you may want to buy extra insurance for them. Here are some tips on insuring belongings you don’t keep at home.
What is uninsured motorist coverage, and do I really need it?
It’s bad enough when you’re in a car wreck. But it can be much worse if the driver who caused the accident doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance. Uninsured motorist coverage can help.
Do you need gap insurance for your car? How does it work?
Maybe, but only if your car is worth less than what you owe on your car loan. Here are some common questions about gap insurance.
Car fires: What to do in an emergency and how to prevent one
Collisions and mechanical failures cause most car fires. Passenger compartment fires are less common but can be more frightening. Here’s what to do if your car is on fire, and tips for preventing fires.
Your health plan can help you quit smoking or lose weight
If you’re trying to quit smoking or lose weight, your health plan may be able to help. Most health plans in Texas have tools and programs to help your reach those goals. Here are tips for the most common health goals.
Careers in insurance: How to become an insurance agent or adjuster
Considering a career in insurance? You’ll need to get an agent or adjuster license. Here are some tips for getting a license and starting a career.
Electric scooter insurance: What to know before you hop on
Electric scooter rentals are popular in Texas’ big cities and near college campuses. If you’ve been using one or want to try it, here’s what you need to know about scooters and insurance.
How to get help with a mental health issue
If your health plan covers mental health issues, the law requires it to give the same level of benefits, such as the number of office visits, as it does for a physical illness or injury. This is known as mental health parity. Here’s what else you should know about parity and getting help.
Understanding an explanation of benefits
Going to the doctor can be hard on your mailbox. One of the many documents you’ll get after a health care visit is an explanation of benefits, often called an EOB. What is it, and why is it important?
How to check for apartment fire safety
You found an apartment or high-rise in your price range and the location is great. When you’re checking out the space, take a few minutes to check the fire safety features. And make sure you learn the building evacuation plan.
Working with an insurance adjuster
When you file an insurance claim, the insurance company’s adjuster probably will be the person you deal with most often. Understanding the adjuster’s role and your options can help the claims process go more smoothly.
How your credit score can affect your insurance rates
Most insurance companies use your credit history to help them decide whether to sell you insurance and how much it will cost. Here’s what you should know about your credit and how it can affect your insurance.
Were you in a wreck? Tips for auto insurance claims
Were you in a wreck? We explain what to do at the scene and after you get home.
Thunderstorms: How to protect yourself from lightning
If you hear thunder, find shelter fast. Lightning strikes kill more Americans than hurricanes most years, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Here are some tips for staying safe in a thunderstorm.
A home inventory: Why you need it and how to do it
Having a detailed home inventory is important if you ever need to make an insurance claim. Here are four things to know about making a home inventory.
Do you need life insurance?
Think about your age, your financial situation, and if you have people who depend on your income. If you do decide to shop for life insurance, here are some things to consider.
Insurance and your roof: What to know when buying a policy or filing a claim
Your roof is the first line of defense against severe weather. In Texas, a roof can take a beating from the weather, so here’s what you need to know when you buy a home insurance policy, file a claim, or replace your roof.
Shopping for auto insurance: What to know before you buy a policy
Shopping for auto insurance is like shopping for any major item. It's a good idea to shop around to find the policy that best meets your needs and budget.
Tips to help you shop for homeowners insurance
Shopping for insurance is like shopping for any major item. It's a good idea to shop around to find the policy that best meets your needs and pocketbook.
What if my insurance isn't paying enough?
If you believe your insurance company didn’t pay enough to cover your damages or unfairly denied your claim, you have options. Click on the type of policy to learn more. You can also call our Help Line at 800-252-3439, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday.
How to pick the right Medicare plan
Most people need to enroll in Medicare through Social Security when they turn 65. It can be a confusing process, but knowing some key facts can help you decide on the best plan.
Beware of buying flood-damaged vehicles
Once an engine gets waterlogged, it’s almost impossible to ever make it right. Unfortunately, some unscrupulous sellers will buy these salvage cars at auction and resell them to unsuspecting buyers across the state and nation. Here’s what to do if that used car deal looks too good to be true.
What you need to know about windstorm inspections
If you live along the Texas coast, your property must meet certain building standards to get a windstorm insurance policy through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association. Here are some things to keep in mind for new construction, repairs, or renovations.
My home was damaged by a storm
Depending on the kind of damage your home has and where you live, you may need to file more than one insurance claim.
Flooded cars: What to know about insurance claims and repairs
Here are answers to some common questions if your car was flooded.
What to know about deductibles
Here are some things to know about deductibles when deciding what policy to buy.
How to avoid contracting scams
Out-of-town scam artists may be the first to arrive at your front door after a disaster. To protect what you invest in repairs, hire local contractors, get written bids, and check references. Use these tips to avoid problems.
What insurance do college students need?
Whether you’re an entering freshman or about to wrap up your senior year, it pays to make sure your insurance needs are in order. Here are some things to consider.
How to stay safe when using fireworks
Fireworks are a big part of many holiday celebrations, but they also can be dangerous. For the best and safest experience, look for a professional show in your community. Here's what you need to know about using fireworks.
Travel insurance: What does it cover and when do you need it?
Not all travel insurance is the same. Some policies only cover certain kinds of trip cancellations. Here are some questions to help you decide if you need travel insurance and what kind of policy will work best for your trip.
Does homeowners insurance cover swimming pools?
Summer is the time for getting the most out of your swimming pool. Take a minute to review your homeowners insurance to make sure your pool is fully covered.
Do you need boat insurance?
If your summer plans include boating, make sure you know what’s covered and what isn’t.
Welcoming a child to the family? Don’t forget the insurance.
Bringing a child into your life can be joyous, but it’s also hectic. Here are some tips to help you get your insurance in order. Diaper changing is on you.
What to know about identity theft insurance
Victims of identity theft can be left with a bad credit record that can take months to correct. Here’s what you need to know about identity theft insurance and how to protect yourself.
Ride sharing: 3 questions to ask
Ride-sharing services are popular and convenient, but here are three questions to ask before giving or requesting a ride.
My car was totaled! Now what?
If your car is declared a total loss after an accident, you may be wondering about your options. Here are answers to three common questions.
Make the most of your annual insurance review
Hey, we know reviewing your insurance isn't the most fun way to spend an afternoon, but it beats cleaning out the garage. Here are some tips to get you started.
Four ways of getting health care to avoid big bills
Did you wake up with a sore throat but can’t get an appointment with your doctor? You have several options to get the care you need – and avoid a big bill later.
Renting amusement rides: 5 tips for a safe event
Rides like inflatables, rock walls, mobile mechanical rides, mechanical bulls, and trackless trains can provide your guests hours of amusement. Before renting an amusement ride, check out our five tips to help you have a safe event.
Do I need insurance for a motorcycle or moped?
Yes. The state of Texas requires all drivers – including motorcyclists – to prove financial responsibility for any accidents they may cause. In most cases this means buying a basic liability insurance policy.
What you need to know about continuing ed
Continuing education keeps you informed and helps you better serve Texas consumers. Stay current with your requirements to avoid penalties.
Deploying? 5 things to know about your insurance
If you’re in the military, it’s a good idea to ask your insurance agent about possible deployment issues before you buy a policy. If you’re getting ready to deploy, here are some things to keep in mind.
5 questions to ask when buying pet insurance
Pet insurance can help cover the cost of expensive vet bills if your dog, cat, or other pet is injured or gets sick. Here’s what to ask when looking at plans.
Renters insurance: What does it cover and how much does it cost?
Your landlord’s insurance won’t cover your personal items, but renters insurance is usually very affordable.
How to shop smart for insurance
Shopping for insurance can be a confusing maze of jargon, polices, and prices. We have a few tips to help you get the protection you need at the best price.
Renting out your home? Check your insurance
If you rent out your house, a room in your house, or rides in your car, there’s a good chance your personal insurance policy won’t cover any damage or injuries.