Best Car Insurance Agencies for WFH

COVID-19 has changed the workplace forever. Although some companies are calling for a return to the office, many have updated their policies to allow for more flexibility in the workplace. Since the pandemic, many progressive companies have altered their in-office work policies to allow for hybrid or remote work. With more telecommuters, there are fewer drivers on the road. Many auto insurers recognized this change early on and updated their car insurance rates to offer refunds and discounts for telecommuters. However, that’s not the only way to save money on your car insurance. Below are potential discounts that many top companies offer, along with our recommendations for remote workers who need a low-cost, low-mileage policy. 

Potential Discounts for Telecommuters

It’s important to understand the potential discounts to look for when comparing side-by-side automobile policies. Many insurers offer discounts for drivers based on how many miles they drive in a year. In some cases, remote workers can save up to half off of their policies with certain car insurance discounts and programs. Auto insurance for remote workers is often cheaper than average for a frequent driver. Annual mileage is one of the primary factors that impact car insurance rates. Less driving means a lower risk for auto coverage, which is why it’s essential to let your insurer know if you are a telecommuter. Speak to a representative to see how much you can save on an auto policy when you work from home. 

Short commute

Telecommuting isn’t the only way to save on your auto policy. If you are a worker with a flexible work schedule or a student who attends online classes, then consider a low mileage discount. According to Kelley Blue Book, a short commute is considered under 20 miles or 7,000 miles annually. If you’re someone who doesn’t have to go to the office or class every day, a short commute can save you cash on your insurance policy. 

Pay-by-the-mile insurance rates

Although each company has different parameters around pay-by-the-mile insurance policies, many companies do offer this option for telecommuters. Pay-per-mile insurance means the company charges a low base rate and then an additional fee per mile that you drive. Infrequent drivers can get cheap car insurance rates. This may be a good option for folks who don’t drive every day. 

Usage-based insurance

Safe drivers can save a lot of money on their auto policies. While pay-per-mile auto rates depend on total mileage, usage-based auto insurance tracks much more than mileage. These programs put a device in your car or use an app on your phone to track driving behavior, such as braking force and speeding, which can impact your risk factor and your rates accordingly. 

Best Auto Insurers for Remote Workers

Based on customer reviews and extensive research, we’ve compiled a list of the best car insurance agencies for telecommuters. If their rates aren’t online, make sure that you confirm with a representative. No matter which insurer you choose, you should expect transparent rates and clear communication about possible savings. 

Best for safe drivers: State Farm

With a maximum discount of 30% off your policy, State Farm’s Drive Safe and Save program is one of the best in the business. State Farm makes it easy for drivers to track their safe driving habits. With an enrollment discount of 5%, drivers have the option to use a mobile app or a plug-in on their smartphone to save an average of $25 on their auto policy. Under this program, drivers can significantly lower their rates through safe driving. Keep in mind that your rate fluctuates based on driving behavior, so any unsafe driving habits will make your rate go up. 

Best for discount hunters: Geico

With the cheapest full auto coverage auto in the industry, Geico boasts more insurance discounts than its competitors, including member discounts. Their low rates and high customer satisfaction make Geico one of the best insurers when you need to find an affordable policy. While everyone can benefit from the excellent rates, teens and drivers with low credit scores can particularly benefit from Geico’s offerings. With availability in all 50 states, including Washington D.C., Geico can help lower your current rate with its discount options. 

Best for pay-per-mile: Nationwide

If you’re an infrequent driver, Nationwide features a pay-per-mile program called SmartMiles, along with other usage-based savings options. Multiple discount options and excellent claims handling make Nationwide one of the top auto insurers for folks who work from home. People with bad credit can also receive excellent rates, especially if you consider bundling services through them. For parents with a teen driver, Nationwide also has a multitude of customizable policies and exceptional rates. Nationwide has a robust savings program for remote workers, which regularly places them as one of the top providers in the U.S. 

Best for distracted drivers: AAA

No matter if you stay in the right lane or pass people on the highway, AAA won’t change your rate. Their AAA Drive program is similar to other safe driving programs that track distracted driving, speeding, and even fatigue through a mobile app. However, AAA won’t raise your rate for poor driving habits, but you certainly won’t receive as many discounts in the program as a safe driver would. You’ll receive a 5% enrollment discount, and the app can provide personalized feedback when you’re driving distracted so you can adjust your driving habits and be present on the road. 

Best for military members: USAA

USAA is consistently one of the leaders in the insurance industry for its reasonable rates and high customer satisfaction. USAA offers some of the best rates for drivers with short commutes and low annual mileage. While USAA members must be affiliated with the U.S. military either directly or indirectly, those not directly affiliated with the military qualify if they’re spouses, parents, or legal guardians of a military member. USAA’s fast handling of auto claims and extensive coverage are great for military members and their families looking to save money while they work a remote or hybrid schedule.