Cheapest Car Insurance for Low-Income Drivers in Washington (October 2024)

The cheapest car insurance for individual drivers with low income and poor credit history in Washington is PEMCO at $15 per month. For families with low incomes, the most affordable provider is Capital Insurance Group at $72 per month.

Washington does not offer state-backed car insurance programs for low-income families and individuals. Finding the provider with the most affordable rate is one option to manage costs, and there are also ways to get discounts to help alleviate the cost of car insurance.

While state minimum coverage will help you drive legally, there are downsides. For example, in an at-fault accident, minimum coverage may not fully cover the damages, leaving you to pay out-of-pocket.

Income is not considered by car insurance companies in Washington when calculating your rates. Instead, factors like age, driving record, insurance score and type of car play a significant role. At-fault accidents and moving violations can increase your rates, making it essential to maintain a clean driving record. To find the cheapest rates, it's best to compare quotes from several insurance companies.

This approach gives you a clearer picture of the most affordable options available. If your budget is tight, opting for a basic minimum coverage policy is often the cheapest way to stay legal on the road. Additionally, if you rarely drive, pay-per-mile insurance can save you money. MoneyGeek found the cheapest insurers for low-income drivers in Washington to help you save.

To legally operate a vehicle in the Evergreen State, you must carry minimum car insurance requirements that include the following coverages:

• $25,000 for bodily injury liability per person.
• $50,000 for bodily injury liability per accident.
• $10,000 for property damage liability per accident.

Choosing a liability-only car insurance is an affordable option that covers expenses for the other driver if you're at fault in an accident, but it won't cover damages to your own car. To ensure your vehicle is also protected, consider a full coverage car insurance policy, which includes collision and comprehensive coverages. These coverages are essential for safeguarding your car against a range of non-collision events such as theft, natural disasters, or vandalism.

In Washington, a full coverage policy is particularly advantageous. Imagine a scenario where your car is damaged due to a fallen tree during a windstorm in the Cascades; full coverage would be instrumental in covering the repair costs. Understanding the risks and benefits of different coverages is crucial in choosing the right policy for your needs.

Your credit record can affect your car insurance rates in Washington. A lower credit-based insurance score may signal to insurers that you're a higher risk, which can lead to more expensive premiums.

Washington drivers with poor credit records can find affordable rates with:

• PEMCO: $184 per year; $15 per month
• Auto-Owners: $405 per year; $34 per month

The cheapest car insurance in Washington for low-income drivers with a good credit history are:

• PEMCO: $184 per year; $15 per month
• Auto-Owners: $405 per year; $34 per month

Driving without insurance in Washington is considered a misdemeanor and can lead to suspension of your driver's license and vehicle registration, fines ranging from $175 to $1,000 and other penalties. Make sure you're covered to drive legally and safely.

Car insurance premiums are influenced by your family situation rather than your income. In Washington, a single parent's annual rate can be higher by $479 compared to a married couple with a teen, with the latter enjoying a more affordable rate by $479 per year.

The most budget-friendly car insurance companies for married couples with a teen in Washington are:

• Capital Insurance Group: $867 per year; $72 per month
• GEICO: $908 per year; $76 per month

For single parents with a teen, the most economical options are:

• Capital Insurance Group: $1,346 per year; $112 per month
• GEICO: $1,642 per year; $137 per month

Married couples with a teen tend to receive lower car insurance quotes than single parents with a teen. This difference highlights the impact of family structure on insurance costs. To secure the best rates, maintaining a solid credit history is crucial, as it can significantly influence your insurance premiums.

Car insurance premiums typically decrease as you reach your early senior years (around age 55 to 65), especially if you maintain a clean driving record.

The two cheapest car insurance for senior drivers with low-income and poor credit history are:

• PEMCO: $199 per year; $17 per month
• Auto-Owners Insurance Co: $371 per year; $31 per month

After the age of 70, car insurance rates generally increase, as older drivers are statistically considered higher risk. This trend continues each year, meaning premiums typically rise as seniors age. In Washington, there are specific guidelines for senior drivers regarding car insurance.

Many factors influence car insurance rates. Although your income doesn't affect the price directly, you might pay more if a low income leads to a poor credit record. Understanding these factors can help you find the best car insurance for your needs.

There are several strategies to help you find affordable car insurance in Washington. Whether or not there are state-sponsored programs for low-income drivers, you can still find ways to save on your premiums. Here are some tips to lower your car insurance premiums:

Finding affordable car insurance in Washington can be tough for drivers with low incomes. Here are answers to some of your most common questions on how to save.