Back-to-school season: Five insurance questions for families

Back-to-school season: Five insurance questions for families

As families prepare for a new school year, many are focused on back-to-school shopping lists, tuition payments and extracurricular expenses. But amid the seasonal spending, it's also a good time to review insurance coverage and make sure students are protected from unexpected setbacks.

Students often head back to school with valuable belongings, whether they're moving into a residence hall, living off campus or commuting from home. American Family Insurance encourages families to ask a few questions to help protect what matters most and identify potential opportunities to save.

As students head back to the classroom, here are a few insurance questions families should ask before the school year begins:

Will your homeowners insurance cover your child at college?
In many cases, your homeowners insurance may extend to your college student, especially if they live in university housing.

Moving into a residence hall or off-campus apartment often means bringing thousands of dollars' worth of belongings, including laptops, tablets, gaming systems and other electronics. For students living off campus or those not considered insured under a homeowners policy, renters insurance may be a smart choice, providing affordable protection for personal belongings and liability exposure.

Taking time to review coverage before the semester begins can help avoid surprises later.

Are your student's electronics protected at school?
Your student's electronics may be protected by renters insurance, which can help cover possessions such as computers and other electronics.

From studying and streaming to staying connected with friends and family, technology plays a major role in student life. Students often bring valuable electronics to campus they rely on both in and out of the classroom. Before heading to school, families should review the electronics their student is bringing and understand their coverage options. Understanding what's covered can help avoid unexpected expenses throughout the school year.

Reviewing coverage before the school year begins can help families better protect the devices students depend on and avoid costly replacement expenses if the unexpected happens.

Does your student's auto insurance need to change for the school year?
A new school year often brings changes in how, when and where students drive, making it a good time to review auto insurance coverage.

Whether your student is driving to class, commuting from home or heading away to college, it's a good time to review your coverage and available discounts.

Students under age 25 who attend school 100 miles or more from home and leave their vehicle behind may qualify for an away-at-school discount. Families should also review their policy when driving habits change to help ensure they have the auto protection they need throughout the school year.

Another option is DriveMyWay. At American Family, we're all about protecting you and your loved ones. That includes helping reduce crash risk on the road, and DriveMyWay helps accomplish that. The DriveMyWay program allows you or your children to demonstrate safe driving habits and potentially be rewarded with lower rates.

Can good grades help lower your insurance costs?
Yes. Good grades may help eligible students qualify for insurance discounts and save on premiums.

American Family offers a Good Student Discount for qualifying high school, college and homeschooled students. Families may also be eligible for additional savings opportunities, including Away at School, Young Volunteer and Generational discounts.

A quick policy review can help ensure you're taking advantage of available savings opportunities.

Should families consider life insurance for students and young adults?
Yes. Life insurance is often more affordable when purchased at a younger age and can help families plan for the future.

Back-to-school season often marks important life milestones and new levels of independence for students. Now is a great time to help protect your student's future.

American Family Life Insurance Company offers options like whole life, term life and more, so you can choose what fits your family best. Because age and health can impact life insurance rates, getting coverage now can mean lower costs and more peace of mind.

Contact your American Family Insurance agency owner today
As students head back to the classroom, a simple insurance review can help families protect their budgets, safeguard valuable belongings and feel confident they've prepared for the school year ahead.

Find an American Family Insurance agency owner near you for a personalized coverage review. Learn how you can help protect what matters most while making the most of available savings opportunities.

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About American Family Insurance
American Family Insurance, based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance is the nation's 12th-largest property/casualty insurance company, ranking No. 226 on the Fortune 500 list. American Family has a current 'a+' credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a "Standing the Test of Time" company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of 'A' or better for at least 75 years. The company offers American Family-brand products through a network of exclusive agency owners as well as nationwide through key strategic partnerships. American Family Insurance also includes Homesite and Main Street America. The company has approximately 10,500 employees nationwide.