U.S. Car Insurance: Address Change Guide

Changing your address on USAA vehicle insurance is a simple process that can be done online or over the phone. It is important to update your address with USAA when you move to ensure that your insurance coverage remains valid and that any claims can be processed without issues. USAA will need your new address to calculate your rates and send policy and claim documents. Failing to update your address could result in higher rates, denied claims, or even policy cancellation.

Contact USAA customer service via phone, email, or their online portal

To change your address on USAA vehicle insurance, you will need to contact USAA customer service. You can do this by phone, email, or through their online portal.

Contacting USAA Customer Service by Phone

USAA's customer service phone number is available 24/7 and works with most carriers. The main number is *(800) 531-8722*, and you can also use the shortcut mobile number #8722. For international customers, the toll-free number in the U.S. and Canada is (866) 509-7711, and for collect calls outside of the U.S. and Canada, the number is +1-603-328-1720.

Contacting USAA Customer Service by Email

To contact USAA via email, reach out to their Customer Service Resources team at **. For media inquiries, the email address is *[email protected]*.

Contacting USAA Customer Service through Their Online Portal

You can also contact USAA customer service through their online portal. Visit the USAA website and use their virtual agent for assistance. The chat function is available anytime you need help. Additionally, you can log in to your USAA account on the website to manage your coverage and make changes to your policy.

Provide details such as the make, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN) of your new car

When updating your address for USAA vehicle insurance, you may be required to provide details about your new car. This is because your insurance premium is influenced by the type of car you drive.

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique, 17-character code assigned to each car sold in the United States. The VIN can be used to identify a car's make, model, and various other specifications. The VIN is usually located at the base of the windshield or on the driver's door jamb. It is also stamped on the engine's firewall.

The first three digits of a VIN are the World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI). The first digit defines the country of origin or the final point of assembly. The second digit indicates the manufacturer and the region of production, and the third digit indicates the vehicle type or manufacturing division.

Digits four through nine make up the Vehicle Description Section (VDS). These describe the vehicle's model, body type, restraint system, transmission type, and engine code. The ninth digit is the check digit, used to detect fraudulent VINs.

The tenth digit indicates the model year, and the eleventh digit indicates the manufacturing plant. The twelfth through seventeenth digits are the unique production serial number.

In addition to the VIN, you may be asked to provide the make and model of your new car. This information, along with the VIN, can be used to determine the various specifications of your vehicle, including engine size, body style, and trim level.

By providing these details, you can ensure that your insurance coverage is accurate and up-to-date for your new car.

Understand the potential changes in premium due to the new address

When updating your address with USAA, it's important to understand how your new location may affect your vehicle insurance premium. Your premium is the amount you pay for your car insurance coverage, and it can vary depending on several factors related to your address.

Firstly, the state you live in plays a significant role in determining your premium. Each state has its own laws and requirements for car insurance coverage, so moving to a different state may result in changes to your premium. Some states mandate that drivers have Personal Injury Protection (PIP), while others do not. The higher the minimum insurance requirements in your state, the higher your premium is likely to be.

Secondly, your premium can be influenced by the population and traffic conditions in your area. Moving from a rural area to a densely populated city will typically increase your insurance rates because there is a greater likelihood of accidents and claims. More traffic also means a higher chance of encountering uninsured drivers, which further increases the potential for claims.

Additionally, crime rates in your new area can impact your premium. If you move to an area with higher crime rates, particularly vehicle theft and vandalism, your premium is likely to increase. Insurance providers are aware of areas with higher rates of stolen vehicles and vandalism claims and will adjust premiums accordingly.

Your parking situation at your new address can also affect your premium. If you are unable to secure a garage parking spot and have to park on the street, your car insurance premium may be higher due to the increased risk of damage or theft. On the other hand, if you have access to a secure garage or parking lot, your premium could be lower.

It's worth noting that insurance companies use your ZIP code to help assess your risk level and set rates. Your premium can vary even within the same state, as different ZIP codes may have different claim rates, accident statistics, and population densities.

While it's essential to update your address with your insurance provider when you move, it's also a good opportunity to shop around for car insurance if you're unhappy with the post-move premium offered by your current insurer.

Update your registration with the DMV

Updating your registration with the DMV is a crucial step when changing your address. Here are the details on how to do it:

In most states, you are required to update your address with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within a certain timeframe, often within 10 days of moving. This update includes changing your address on your driver's license, vehicle records, and registration. While you may be able to write your new address on the back of your license and registration documents, it is recommended to officially update your address with the DMV to avoid any legal issues.

Online Address Change:

Many DMVs offer the convenience of updating your address online through their websites or mobile applications. To do this, you will need to create an account on the DMV website and provide your old and new addresses. Keep in mind that not everyone is eligible for an online address change. For example, in California, you cannot change your address online if you have a commercial driver's license (CDL) issued by the state and reside in another state.

In-Person or Mail Address Change:

If you are ineligible for an online address change or prefer a different method, you can update your address by visiting a local DMV office in person or by mailing in the required form. For instance, in California, you can download and fill out the DMV 14 form and submit it by mail or in person. Be sure to have your old and new addresses ready, along with any other relevant information.

Timing and Processing:

Keep in mind that address changes may take a few days to process. For example, in California, it can take up to three days for an online address change to be processed. Therefore, it is recommended to complete the address change before applying for or renewing other DMV services.

Vehicle Registration and Title Certificate:

When you change your address for vehicle registration, the DMV may also update the title certificate record. If the name on your registration record does not match the title certificate, you may need to contact the DMV to update the address on your title record. Additionally, if you have a leased vehicle, you may need to use a different form or process to update your address.

Voter Registration Update:

In some states, such as California, you may have the option to update your voter registration information during the online address change process. You can choose to register to vote, provide voter preferences, or notify the Secretary of State of your new address.

Be aware of the consequences of not changing your address, such as legal charges, policy cancellation, higher rates, and claims denial

Failing to update your address with USAA after moving to a new state can have several consequences, including:

Legal Charges

Using a different address for car insurance is considered insurance fraud and is a violation of auto insurance laws. Providing false information to receive cheaper rates can result in penalties such as fines, suspension of your driver's license, or even jail time.

Policy Cancellation

Not updating your address could result in your policy being cancelled. Insurance companies require up-to-date information to keep your coverage valid. For example, State Farm policyholders must update their garage address if they move to ensure their policy remains in force.

Higher Rates

If your insurer discovers that you have provided a incorrect address, you may face higher insurance rates. Insurance companies use your address to determine your premiums, taking into account factors such as crime rates, traffic, population, and the number of uninsured drivers in your area.

Claims Denial

Failing to update your address may result in your insurance claims being denied. When you file a claim, the insurance company needs to know your correct address to process it accurately. Additionally, if you move to an area where your current insurer does not provide coverage, your claim may be denied.

To avoid these consequences, it is essential to update your address with USAA as soon as possible after moving. Keeping your insurance information accurate and up-to-date ensures that you maintain valid coverage and helps you avoid potential legal and financial issues.

Frequently asked questions