Make sure your college kid has all the coverage they need this school year.

Starting college can be an anxious time for both new students and their parents. From the stress of moving your newly graduated high-schooler to a brand new environment to the pressure of starting an all new academic and social environment on their own, your college student will have a lot on their plate. To give you and your student peace of mind, you’ll want to make sure they (and you) are protected while they and their belongings are away at school. It’s natural for parents to be concerned and a little bit anxious about their children embarking on this new journey. Here are some tips for reviewing your insurance coverages that will give you both peace of mind.

Student Healthcare

Most universities require that students have some form of health insurance, and many schools offer a student health plan.  School health plans are a generally affordable way to ensure that your child has basic health coverage.  If you want to keep your child on an existing family health plan, check with both your insurance company and the school to ensure that your student will be adequately covered.

Renters Insurance for Students

While your student is living in campus housing, it’s important to consider getting renters insurance.  With the portable nature of laptops, tablets, cell phones, and even speakers, theft is a big concern on college campuses.  While homeowners insurance policies may extend coverage for your child’s electronic devices, their residence in college housing might affect this protection.  If your student is living off-campus, additional renters insurance may be necessary. Check with your insurance agent to review your family insurance and for recommendations to continue protecting your student while they are living away at school.

Student Auto Insurance

If your student is planning on taking a car with them to school, make sure that they and their car are covered.  Your student’s auto insurance rates depend on the state you live in and on other individual factors (full-time student status, location of the school, student’s age, etc.), so check with your insurance company to find the best fit for you and your family. Plus, to insure your coverage continues, information on your student’s driving /car usage while in college and where their car might be located need to be updated with your agent so the policy coverage is accurate.

Umbrella Insurance for Parents

As previously mentioned, college is an all new experience for young college students away from home for the first time.  If your child is still a dependent, you can be held liable for any damage or injuries that your student cause or be involved in.  An umbrella insurance policy provides extra protection for you, your child, and your assets in the case of a lawsuit against your child. While increased coverage can translate to slightly higher premiums, the additional coverages will give you peace of mind and protection which can be invaluable.

This fall, make sure your college student is well protected insurance-wise.  Contact us at Randy Jones Insurance Services in Pleasanton, California to review the insurance you have and to make sure you have the best coverage to protect your family and meet your particular needs.