Why is auto insurance in my state now baseing premiums on your credit? Isn't that discrimination?

Question

I received a notice saying that my auto insurance rates may be different based off of my credit starting in August. That's when I renew. They hadn't been doing it like this, so why are they doing it now? I pay my insurance on time every month, so why slap me with a major price increase because my credit score sucks? Does anyone know the stupid reasoning behind insurance companies adjusting prices based on creditworthiness for current and future customers?

Answer 1

It is above-board. The insurance companies say they have determined that people who have good credit are less likely to have accidents. While that may be true, I believe they should base rates for long term customers on driving history & the way the policy is paid. However, the insurance companies, who seem to be doing quite well financially, in these tough economic times don't really care. They want big fat profits. It is possible that your rate will be reduced if your credit is good.

Answer 2

Because their studies show that those with poor credit are more likely to damage or allow their car to be damaged intentionally for monetary gain. Yada yada yada

And they are doing this now on homeowners ins.

Answer 3

cococremejuju, For auto insurance the quick way to get a cheap quote is do a policy comparison. Be sure to choose the same coverage amounts, you can get an quick quote to compare against others. Use the same zip code, auto make/model, mileage and driving history to ensure you get accurate comparison. To get fast auto quotes, go to http://www.autoadviceonline.com/Auto-Ins... and you can compare all the major auto insurance companies.

Answer 4

No, because they are doing it to everyone else. They aren't discriminating against only you. Most companies have been doing this for years.

Answer 5

Insurance companies look at your credit because it's a good indicator of your ability to pay your premium on time and how many claims you will have.  Statistics show that people with poor credit tend to file more claims than people with good credit.

It's really not discrimination.  In todays world you have to have good credit for everything. It might not seem fair to you but insurance companies have to watch out for themselves.