Should I File an Insurance Claim? Calculator
Filing a claim isn't free — premiums typically rise for 3–5 years afterward. Compare what insurance would pay against what the claim will cost you in surcharges, and check whether a higher deductible would save you money.
Should I file this claim?
Rules of thumb: never file below the deductible; think twice when damage is less than deductible + one year's surcharge. Multiple claims in 3 years can also trigger non-renewal. Liability claims (injuries, other vehicles) should almost always go through insurance regardless.
Is a higher deductible worth it?
When filing a claim makes sense — and when it doesn't
The math is simple: insurance pays your damage minus the deductible, but an at-fault claim typically raises premiums 20–50% for 3–5 years. On a $2,400/year policy, a 30% surcharge for three years costs about $2,160 — so a claim that nets you $1,500 after the deductible actually loses money.
Always file when others are injured, another vehicle is involved, or fault is disputed — liability protection is the core reason insurance exists. The pay-out-of-pocket question only applies to single-car damage you fully control.
Choosing your deductible
A higher deductible lowers premiums, and the break-even calculator shows how quickly the savings cover the extra risk: if raising your deductible $500 saves $180/year, you break even after 2.8 claim-free years. Since the average driver files a collision claim every 6–10 years, higher deductibles win for most people — provided the deductible sits comfortably in your emergency fund.
Frequently asked questions
How much does insurance go up after a claim?
At-fault accident claims raise premiums roughly 20–50% on average (nationally ~40-50% for a $2,000+ claim), typically for 3–5 years. Comprehensive claims (hail, theft) usually cause smaller increases.
Should I file a claim for damage under $1,000?
Rarely. With a typical $500–1,000 deductible the payout is small or zero, while the surcharge can cost thousands over 3–5 years. Pay small repairs out of pocket.
Do claims I'm not at fault for raise my rates?
They can, depending on the state and insurer — some states prohibit surcharges for not-at-fault claims. Multiple claims of any kind within 3 years can also affect renewal.
What deductible should I choose?
The highest amount you could comfortably pay from your emergency fund tomorrow. For most households that's $500–1,000; the break-even calculator shows whether the premium savings justify going higher.
This tool provides general information and estimates only — it is not insurance advice, and requirements can change. Verify current rules with your state insurance department or a licensed agent. Data verified July 2026.