Protect your college graduate with the right insurance

College graduation is an exciting time for students and their parents alike.  And, while it’s easy to be immersed in graduation parties and focused on first-job jitters, it’s a time of major transitions and big decisions, and it’s essential to prepare graduates for what comes next.

One area new college graduates need to address is insurance.  As insurance professionals in the Metro Atlanta, Georgia area, we know insurance can be a confusing topic.  We also know that seemingly small missed details can result in very large losses.  We want to ensure your college graduate is protected before heading out into the real world, so we have compiled the following pointers.

• Review your family’s current insurance. The first step when considering insurance for your new graduate is evaluating the coverage you currently have.  Make an appointment with your agent, who can advise on whether it’s appropriate given the pending changes, and whether it will cover your son or daughter.
• Know the law. Georgia requires drivers to have auto insurance. Many states have different laws regarding car insurance and most states have very low minimum policy limit requirements. Research the law in your son or daughter’s state, or consult with us to make sure they are covered adequately. 
• Read your lease. Many apartment, condominium and home rental properties require tenants to maintain a certain level of renter’s insurance, which covers the contents of the home in the event of a robbery, fire, or other loss. Make sure you know the terms of your son or daughter’s new lease, and insure them accordingly.
• Don’t end up liable. Any home renter or homeowner is exposed to liability risk. To ensure there is adequate coverage in the event someone gets injured on your son or daughter’s property, speak with us or your agent about renter’s liability insurance.
• Check your Health Insurance. Graduation can trigger changes to your health coverage if your student is no longer a student. There are many changes in our nation’s health care laws. It is a good idea to check with your employer to see what the options are for your new graduate.
• Don’t gamble! Never go without. It’s simple: your son or daughter should always have auto and life insurance in place. Be sure to discuss with us what types of insurance they need.
• Know your company benefits. Many college graduates move straight into the workforce, and most companies have benefits. Study the company’s human resources handbook to learn what benefits are available, when they go into effect, and what their limitations are. Many companies require a waiting period before certain coverages become available. Look for potential gaps to ensure that your graduate remains adequately covered. 

All of us at Cowart Insurance Agency congratulate you on the graduation of your daughter or son!  Please contact us with any questions, or to request a review of your family’s insurance portfolio.