Return-Path: Received: from nova.ece.cmu.edu by K.GP.CS.CMU.EDU id aa18248; 11 Oct 91 13:30:29 EDT Received: by nova.ece.cmu.edu (5.54-ECE2/5.17) id AA23485; Fri, 11 Oct 91 13:30:26 EDT Date: Fri, 11 Oct 91 13:30:26 EDT From: Chris Newburn Message-Id: <9110111730.AA23485@nova.ece.cmu.edu> To: bovik@k.gp.cs.cmu.edu Subject: Some interesting rate-influencing info I talked to an auto insurance agent who was trying to help me keep my rates down. He said that many companies will try to assess the character and stability of their client by asking a few objective questions. They use a point system to keep track of these, and if you can accumulate 7-9 points, you get a lower risk index. One agent was nice enough to give me the list. I don't guarantee its accuracy, and I have intentionally left out the name of the agent and agency. married 1 called 2 weeks before policy expiration 2 homeowner or 2 years at residence 1 5 years at same job 2 2-5 years at same job 1 3 years at combination of 2 jobs 1 offered renewal from preferred risk company 3 offered renewal from assigned risk company 2 multiple cars 1 car less than 2 years old 1 other insurance with same company 3 currently purchasing other ins, same company 2 pay up front 1 For example, if you're married, call early, stay in the same place for 2 years, are offered renewal, and pay up front, you're in with 8 points. You don't call early and you lose!