Consumption and Real Estate
Switch car insurance from 21st Century to Farmers?
Question : Switch car insurance from 21st Century to Farmers?
I was looking into updating my homeowner’s insurance at Farmers because I just added a room to my house. My insurance agent said my premiums would go up about $ 150, but if I switched my car insurance over from 21st Century to Farmers I would get a significant discount, such that my homeowners premium would be reduced by $ 200, effectively saving $ 350 per year. On top of that, if I raised the deductible on my collision to $ 1000 I could save an additional $ 150, making a total savings of $ 500 per year. I sent my agent all the details of my current profile with 21st Century, and she said the costs were pretty much identical.
I’m wondering what possible implications there are in switching from 21st to Farmers? What else do I need to think about besides the financial savings? I’ve read good and bad regarding both companies (actually I’ve had pretty decent experiences with 21st). I’m in my 40s and I’m a careful driver, my driving record is clean, so I’m definitely not high-risk. Thanks!
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Best answer:
Answer by Justin H
You should probably shop rates with more than just Farmers. If you’re in your 40′s with a good driving record, you should be able to get much better rates from other companies. I had always used companies like Esurance, Geico, and 21st Century. About 3 years ago I switched to AAA and saved about $ 200 a year with much better insurance.
There’s nothing wrong with having all you policies under one company, but you should ask around and see if anyone has anything to say about their experience with Farmers. I had them for my car insurance when I first go my license, but that was so long ago I don’t remember if they were any good or not.
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#3 written by oklatom 1 year ago
I’d suggest you find a local agent who is also independent, and give him all your information. He will search his data base and find what is best for you. Or perhaps give you a list of 2 or 3 that are similar to pick one.
The immediate advantage of course it that you will have a local agent rather than an 800 number or web page should you ever need help.
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#4 written by jmrob29 1 year ago
Most insurance companies offer a multi-line discount for insuring both home and autos with them. It helps them keep your business because it’s a hassle to move everything. Be sure you’re getting the same coverages with both companies–I’d hate to have you comparing apples to lemons. Sometimes shady agents quote you a higher deductible or lower liability limits just to get your business and you don’t notice the lower coverages until you need them (file a claim). Make sure Farmers isn’t offering you a “new business discount”. What that means is after 6-12 months they’ll remove that discount and increase your rates. Also, make sure your quote from Farmers is accurate and that it will be your rate. The old “bait and switch” technique. Another thing to look at is how available is this Farmers agent? Do they have a local office? How about if you have an emergency at 2:00 a.m. – who will be there and how do you contact them?
Just be careful – with discount premiums can come discount service. Buyer beware!
But, if the agent is available when you need him/her, they have excellent claim handling, the coverages are the same and there are no hidden charges, then go and save money.
Good luck.
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Hello Scott,
While I don’t know much about 21st Century, Farmers Insurance is a horrible company. They give incentives (pizza parties and bonuses) for lowballing and denying claims. Farmers Insurance was rated worst by Consumer Reports, BBB and JD Power and Associates. Stick with 21st Century or look at some alternatives.