You know how important it is to protect your credit information. You may work hard to keep your score as high as possible. Why do auto insurance companies need this information?
Many people do not know their insurer is using this information. Most often, insurers use this information to make key decisions about the type of coverage they will provide to you. They also will use it to determine the rate you will pay.
Will a Car Insurance Company Access Your Credit Report?
State laws differ in terms of what information auto insurance companies can access. They also differ based on when they can obtain this information. In some states, you must give permission for them to process your quote and use your Social Security number or credit rating. In other states, there is no such requirement.
Will an Inquiry from an Auto Insurance Company Hurt Your Credit Score?
The type of credit report pulled by a car insurance company is a soft inquiry. These do not impact your credit score in any way. By contrast, if you request a credit card from a lender, this creates a hard inquiry on your record. This will impact your score for up to two years. The reason is simple. Because an insurer is not a lender, their look at your credit will not impact your score in any way.
What Does the Insurer Look for on Your Report?
Most of the time, insurers are looking for your credit score. They do not necessarily look at the details of your credit report. If you have a high credit score, you may be more responsible than those who do not. Simply, your credit score indicates to the insurer if you will make payments on time. It also indicates the level of maturity you have in regards to being a good driver. Insurance companies base this information on statistics compiled from other drivers’ driving habits and patterns.
If you apply for a new auto insurance policy, ask the company if they will access your credit. Determine what they are looking for as well. Then, discuss any concerns you have in advance. You can also check your credit history in the months after to verify there is no negative impact on your score. Car insurance companies reward drivers with a good credit score with a lower premium and easier acceptance, generally.
FAQ’s About Do Auto Insurance Companies Have Access to Credit Information
Why do auto insurance companies need access to credit information?
Auto insurance companies may use credit information to determine a driver’s level of risk and set appropriate rates.
Is it legal for auto insurance companies to access credit information?
Yes, it is legal for auto insurance companies to access credit information as long as they comply with state and federal laws.
How do auto insurance companies obtain credit information?
Auto insurance companies may obtain credit information from credit bureaus or other sources that collect credit data.
Does having bad credit affect my auto insurance rates?
Yes, having bad credit can affect your auto insurance rates as it may indicate to the insurance company that you are a higher risk driver.
Can I request a copy of my credit report from my auto insurance company?
No, auto insurance companies are not required to provide you with a copy of your credit report, but you can obtain a free copy of your credit report from the three major credit bureaus.
Is there a way to improve my credit score to get better auto insurance rates?
Yes, you can improve your credit score by paying bills on time, reducing credit card balances, and checking your credit report for errors.
Are there any states that prohibit auto insurance companies from using credit information?
Yes, some states have laws that restrict or prohibit the use of credit information by auto insurance companies.
Can auto insurance companies use my credit information to deny coverage?
Yes, auto insurance companies may use credit information to deny coverage or charge higher rates, but they must comply with state and federal laws.
How long does credit information stay on my credit report?
Credit information can stay on your credit report for up to seven years, depending on the type of information.
Can I dispute errors on my credit report that may be affecting my auto insurance rates?
Yes, you can dispute errors on your credit report with the credit bureaus and request that they correct any inaccuracies.