Sending Your Student Off to College?

It’s that time of year—dorm supplies are piling up, campus maps are printed, and the bittersweet goodbye is getting real. But before you wave as your student drives off (or you pull away after move-in day), there’s one crucial detail that can save you headaches—and money—later: Your auto insurance coverage.

At CH Insurance, we’re in your corner—making sure families in New York State have the proper protection for life’s big transitions, including this one.

In most cases, if your college student is still considered a dependent and is using a family-owned vehicle, they can remain on your existing auto policy. But every situation is different—especially if:

• They’re taking a family car with them to school

• They’re moving out of state for college

• They’re leaving their car at home

If your student is attending school in another state—even just across the border—insurance laws and minimum coverage requirements may be different.

• Notify your insurance company of your new garaging address (where the car will be kept most of the year).

• Adjust coverage if state laws require higher limits or additional protections.

• Consider the risks of their new location: traffic patterns, weather, and theft rates can all influence coverage needs.

Even if your student isn’t driving on campus, it’s smart to keep them listed on your policy. Why?

• They’ll have coverage when they’re home on breaks.

• They’ll be insured if they drive a friend’s car or a rental.

• Maintaining continuous coverage can help keep premiums lower in the future.

Sending your student off to college can save you money on your premiums:

• Good Student Discount – For students maintaining a high GPA.

• Distant Student Discount – If your student is more than 100 miles away and not driving regularly.

• Driver Safety Courses – Completing an approved course can reduce rates.

College is full of firsts—for your student and you. The last thing you want is to find out after an accident that coverage wasn’t set up correctly. With CH Insurance, you have a local team that understands New York State laws and can guide you through any adjustments—whether your student is in Buffalo, Boston, or Boise. We’re in your corner so you can focus on their education, not on worrying about insurance fine print.

📌 Ready to make sure your family is covered? Call us today or visit CHInsurance.cc to connect with an advisor. And don’t forget to follow CH Insurance on social media for more resources, tips, and tools for New York families.