PriceProtect™
DriveShield™
GarageGuard™
Services
Insurance
Car Insurance
Compare Car Insurance with Jerry
Jerry’s Expert Advice
Car Insurance Estimates
Home & Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Repairs
Car Repair Estimates
Repair Estimates for Popular Services
Advice
Read Car Content
Browse Jerry Car Advice
Check Out Expert Car QnA
Learn About How We Create Content
Jerry Data & Research
How long should you keep old car insurance policies?
How long do you need to keep car insurance records? I recently received a new set of policy documents in the mail. I still have my previous documents, can I discard those or should I keep them as well?
Phoebe Mah · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“That is a great question!
According to Bankrate, you do not need to keep your policy documents for more than one year. New policy documents are sent either annually or semi-annually, in which case you can toss your old records and simply keep your new policy.
You can also discard any records that are no longer in effect, like documents for a vehicle you no longer own.
But remember to file away your new documents somewhere safe! If you accidentally throw out your new policy copy, simply contact your insurance agent for another one or access it online.
There’s one caveat: If you have any open
claims
related to a car accident or have claims filed against you by another driver, you must keep all of your insurance documents and anything related to the accident—even if your policy is no longer active.Claims can take years to resolve. Until they are, it’s best to have access to all documents, medical invoices, repair receipts, towing bills, and so on just in case.
If you feel you are paying too much for your current auto insurance and are looking for a new company,
Jerry
can provide you with competitive quotes in under a minute for free. Jerry takes care of all the paperwork and phone calls and even can assist you in canceling your old policy!”View full answer
- Gregory R.
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance
You Might Also Be Interested
Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry
What Others Are Asking
Browse More Content
Car Repair Resources
Insurance for Your Car
Insurance in Your State
Insurance In Your City
Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance
No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls
Quotes from top insurance companies