Marriage offers many benefits. For instance, evidence suggests married couples—and particularly men—live longer than single people or those who simply cohabit with their partners. Married people receive beneficial tax treatment when filing returns and—under certain circumstances—enjoy each other's Social Security benefits. They may also qualify for lower auto insurance rates. Here’s a look at how marriage affects the premiums you pay.

How Does Marriage Affect Auto Insurance Rates?

Married Couples Pay Less

Personal characteristics, including age, sex, and marital status, are all important factors when it comes to insurers setting car insurance rates. Typically, single men under age 25 pay the highest rates. However, even they can reduce their premiums by getting married. Whether it's because of the calming influence of a healthy partnership or the fact that married couples tend to drive less, the fact is that married people get in fewer accidents and receive fewer moving violations, so insurers consider them statistically safer bets when it comes to coverage.

When to Combine Coverage

In addition to the marital benefit, married people can often enjoy an additional "bundle" discount by combining their two auto insurance policies with a single insurer. However, these savings only apply if each has a relatively clean driving record.

On the other hand, if one of you has a large number of points on their license while the other qualifies for the safe driver discount, it may make more financial sense to keep your policies separate. Another time this may be the right option is if one of you drives an expensive, high-end vehicle. Either differential might offset the marital benefit and end up costing you more for auto insurance.

To discuss your auto insurance options with a helpful, experienced agent, contact Aaron Insurance Agency in Dothan, AL. They’ve been helping Houston County residents design the right coverage for nearly 20 years. They also specialize in ATV, boat, RV, motorcycle, and renters insurance and can search through their large network of 15 providers to find you the best coverage at the right price. Visit their website for a map and business hours or call (334) 712-0777 to request an affordable car insurance quote.