Do i Pay My Deductible Before Or After My Car Is Fixed?

Generally, you pay your car insurance deductible after your car is fixed. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Accident Occurs: You get into an accident and file a claim with your insurance company.

2. Assessment & Estimate: An insurance adjuster assesses the damage to your vehicle and provides a repair estimate.

3. Repair Approval: Your insurance company approves the repairs.

4. Repairs Completed: You take your car to an approved repair shop and the work is completed.

5. Payment & Deductible:

   • You pay your deductible directly to the repair shop.
   • Your insurance company covers the remaining cost of repairs (up to your policy limits, minus your deductible).

Why You Pay After

• Ensures Repair Completion: Paying after repairs are done guarantees the work has been performed to your and the insurance company’s standards.
• Protects You: This prevents situations where you pay a deductible upfront and the repairs are never completed.

Exceptions

There might be a few rare instances where you pay the deductible upfront:

• Shop Policy: Some repair shops have policies requiring upfront deductible payment .
• Total Loss: If your car is declared a total loss, you might pay the deductible before receiving a payout.

Important Notes:

• Check your policy: Always read your specific insurance policy to understand the exact terms and procedures related to deductible payments.
• Ask your adjuster: If you’re unsure, contact your insurance adjuster for clarification.