An auto insurance declarations page is a document that summarizes your car insurance policy. The declarations page is an overview of your policy contract for that coverage period.
You will receive a declarations page when you buy a new car insurance policy, renew an existing policy or make changes to your policy.
What information is on an auto insurance declarations page?
The declarations page outlines various important details of your car insurance policy. It covers almost everything you need to know about your policy at a glance. Here’s what an insurance declarations page may include:
Policy details
Your declarations page typically includes information about your policy, such as your policy number and the period your policy is in effect.
Named insured
The declarations page identifies the person designated as the primary policy holder on the policy contract, who is referred to as the “named insured.” A named insured differs from an insured driver because only the named insured can modify the policy.
Company/agent information
Your insurance company and/or agent’s contact information is typically listed on a declarations page, as well as important numbers for claims reporting or customer service.
Vehicle details
Vehicles covered under the policy are listed on the declarations page, along with their Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN). Loss payees for each vehicle are also listed, if applicable.
Lender/Loss payee
Declarations page usually identifies the lender/loss payee, which is an entity that is entitled to payment if there is a claim. This will be the lienholder if you’ve financed your car, or the lease company if you’re leasing it.
Insured drivers and household members
The declarations page lists the members of your household who have access to the insured vehicles, including yourself. The listed people are covered drivers under your policy.
It’s important to disclose all drivers in your home to your insurance company to maintain accurate coverage.
Discounts and credits
The declarations page identifies the discounts and credits applied to your policy, if any. If you see that you’re missing a discount you believe you’re eligible for, let your insurance company know!
Driving history
Past accidents and violations are listed on the declarations page. This can include claims, violations and tickets incurred by household members.
Endorsements
The declarations page identifies any endorsements, which are any modification, additions and/or changes to your policy.
Coverage details
Coverage information for each insured vehicle is listed on the declarations page. This includes the types of coverage, their limits and deductibles, and any enhancements to your coverage:
- Limits. The maximum amount the insurance company will pay in the event of a claim.
- Deductibles. What you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage starts paying.
- Enhancements. Any optional additional coverage types you may have purchased.
The coverage details will also break down the individual costs of each coverage, for each vehicle.
Total premium
The declarations page will contain the total amount your insurance policy costs for the stated period. Keep in mind that the declarations page is not your insurance bill.
What is the difference between a declarations page and proof of insurance?
In most states, you must be able to provide proof of insurance when operating a vehicle. This will typically be in the form of an official insurance card provided by your insurer. In some states, a digital card will suffice.
While the declarations page indicates that you have an active policy, it should not be used as proof of insurance. Instead, use your insurance card or a certificate of insurance. The declarations page contains personal information that is irrelevant to a third party.
What are the uses of a declarations page?
The declarations page can be used as a handy reference for your insurance policy used to check accuracy, to switch providers and to file a claim
Check accuracy of your policy
The declarations page reflects what’s on your car insurance policy. You can use this as a quick reference to see what coverage you have, and if you have all the coverage you intended to purchase.
If something on the declarations page is incorrect, contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
Switching insurance providers
When shopping for insurance, you should use the same coverage and limits to compare quotes. Lower prices can mean less coverage, so use your declarations page to check that your coverage types, limits and deductibles are the same.
Filing a claim
When contacting your insurance company or agent about a claim, the declarations page is a quick way to check and confirm your coverages.
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