Families encouraged to review insurance as new school year resumes

Special to The Canton News 

As students return to school or enter college this fall, Mississippians are encouraged to consider how their insurance and preparation needs may evolve.
“We’re in the midst of hurricane season now, so get kids involved in building their own emergency kit,” said Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney. “Make sure to include your child’s medication and supplies in your go-bag. For school-aged children, update school records and discuss emergency contact numbers with them. If your child is home alone after school hours, make sure they know how and when to dial 911, how to evacuate your home, and where to meet in case of an emergency.”

Families with teenage and college drivers are advised to review their current deductibles to ensure they are affordable in the event of a claim. On older vehicles, consider lowering or eliminating the physical damage deductible, unless required by the bank.

Parents and guardians can also control student auto premiums, in some cases, with accident forgiveness, and students may also qualify for a good student discount on auto insurance.

For college students planning to live off-campus, Chaney advises that looking into renters’ insurance is crucial. If the student will share a rental property with one or more unrelated roommates, they should each buy their own individual renter’s policy.

Whether living on or off-campus, documenting students’ valuables is important. Students are advised to create an inventory of expensive items like laptops, tablets and phones, which will make filing an insurance claim easier if these items are stolen, lost or damaged. Mississippians can download the NAIC Home Inventory app at content.naic.org/consumer/home-inventory.

Before a child heads off to college, parents and guardians should provide them with copies of all of their insurance cards for any medical needs, as well as discuss the distinction between in-network and out-of-network health providers and locate a nearby hospital or clinic close to campus, in case they require medical attention.

College students are particularly vulnerable to identity theft, due to the abundance of personal information and the casual way it is often handled. Identity theft insurance can cover the expenses of reclaiming financial identity, including the costs of copying documents, mailing paperwork, lost wages from taking time off work, and hiring legal assistance.