Get a Military/First Responder Discount

A military/first responder discount is just one of the many auto insurance discounts you may be able to get for a nice reduction on your auto policy. It’s like a thank you for your service as a member of the armed forces or as a first responder.

If you’re looking for ways to save on your monthly auto coverage bill, be sure to check out other car insurance discounts for which you might qualify. Applying multiple discounts can save you a nice little bundle on your vehicle coverage.

The military discount is for both active and retired U.S. armed forces members, including those in the Reserves and the National Guard.

Your agent will likely need to see ID or paperwork, such as a DD-214, discharge certificate, or active-duty military orders that reflect your military service. You may also need to show your agent an NGB-22, leave and earning statement, a military academy appointment letter, or an ROTC contract to verify your military service status.

The first responder discount is for those who have served or are serving as first responders. First responders are those with specialized training, including police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians, who are first to respond to emergencies, such as accidents and natural disasters.

You may need to show paperwork or identification, such as a union ID, training certificates, a verification letter, or a pay stub that reflects your first responder status. Your agent can answer your questions to help with your specific situation.

If you are not a member of the armed forces and have not ever served, you do not qualify for this discount. Likewise, if you are not a first responder and have never been a first responder, you do not qualify for the discount.

If you are unsure whether you qualify due to your unique situation, your insurance agent can help.

Discounts typically vary, but for this discount, you can potentially save up to 15% off your bill.

Another way to save is by purchasing a non-owner auto insurance policy, which can perfectly fit the lifestyle of military personnel who choose not to own a car. This insurance covers vehicle damage and medical expenses you cause another person (up to the policy’s limits) if you cause an accident while driving a friend’s car or a rental. This coverage excludes your medical expenses and damage to the vehicle you are driving.

With costs for the non-owner policy usually ranging between $200 and $500 a year, many people find this type of insurance more affordable for their lifestyle. Rates can vary according to your driving history, residence zip code, and age, among other factors. If you have an SR-22 (high-risk status), your rates will likely be higher.

When you buy your car insurance, be sure to ask your agent about other (non-military) discounts to see if you can save even more money on your bill. You may be able to save between 10% and 30%, for instance, if you have a clean driving record. If you successfully pass a defensive driving course, you can shave another 5% off your bill.

A few more easy ways to save are by setting up automatic payments, which can save you another 5%, paying your premium in full up front, which can save you 9%, and insuring multiple vehicles, which can save you between 10% and 25% off your premium.

These are just a few examples — your neighborhood insurance agent can provide you with all the available discount options.