Insuring Your College Student

Along with books, computers, and dorm room furnishings, parents should ensure that their college students are equipped with the proper insurance coverage.

Health Insurance

Will your family health insurance plan provide coverage while your student is away? Most policies continue to cover dependents between 19 and 25 years of age—as long as they are enrolled in school full-time. You should review your health insurance plan carefully to make sure you know the provisions. Full-time is usually measured by the number of credit hours the student is taking. A semester off, or a dropped class (or two), may put your student at less than full-time status and jeopardize insurance coverage. Most insurance companies periodically ask for proof of full-time enrollment or may check at the time a claim is submitted.

If your family is insured under an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) or a PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), you may have higher co-payments for services received outside of the network. Again, make sure you review your plan carefully so you understand your coverage and know what to expect.

If your current policy does not provide coverage for your student, or if the added expense of out-of-network charges are a worry, temporary insurance coverage may be a workable and affordable solution. A number of companies offer short-term or temporary health coverage, with some designed specifically for students. Since eligibility requirements vary from company to company, do your homework when looking at the various plans available. Your local AAA insurance agent can help you find the plan that's best for you.

Renters Insurance

Attending college doesn't always mean leaving home, but if your child is moving away, the protection your homeowners policy has provided for his or her possessions and liability exposure (property damage or bodily injury you or another family member may cause to other people) most likely won't go with your student. Renters insurance can help fill this gap. Like homeowners insurance, renters insurance provides protection for possessions and liability. It costs less since it does not cover the physical dwelling—the building is the responsibility of the landlord. Again, you need to look into what coverage is needed, and your local AAA insurance agent can be a vital resource.

The college years can be one of the most enjoyable times of your child's life, even if it means some added stress for parents. However, with a little planning, you can take the right steps to make sure that your prize student is properly insured.

For additional information about health or renters insurance for your college student, contact us toll-free at 1-866-209-8442.