You’re Losing Thousands If You Don’t Know About These 3 Insurance Hacks!

You know, insurance can feel like a big, confusing maze sometimes. You pay your premiums, hoping you’ll never need it, but then when something happens, it feels like a whole new battle. Turns out, insurance companies have some pretty sneaky ways they try to keep more of their money. It’s not always about helping you out. But if you know their tricks, you can actually save a lot of cash and make sure you’re getting what you deserve. Let’s talk about some of these hidden insurance strategies.

Key Takeaways

Bundling different types of insurance with the same company can lead to discounts.
Increasing your deductible can lower your monthly payments, but make sure you can afford the higher out-of-pocket cost if you need to make a claim.
Always ask about available discounts, like those for safe driving or low mileage, as these can add up over time.
Review your policy regularly to remove coverage you no longer need, especially on older vehicles.
Be aware that insurance companies might try to delay your claim, use your own words against you, or offer a quick settlement that’s less than your claim is worth.

Bundle Your Policies

You know how you have car insurance, maybe home insurance, and perhaps even life insurance? Well, most insurance companies love it when you buy all of those things from them. It’s called bundling, and it’s a pretty sweet deal for both you and them. By putting all your insurance needs under one roof, you can often snag a discount. Think of it like buying a whole set of furniture instead of just one chair – you usually get a better price for the package.

It’s not just about saving a few bucks, either. It simplifies your life. Instead of juggling different companies, payment dates, and customer service numbers, you’ve got one point of contact. This can make managing your policies way less of a headache.

Here’s a quick look at what you might be able to bundle:

Auto Insurance
Homeowners Insurance
Renters Insurance
Life Insurance
Motorcycle Insurance

Seriously, it’s worth checking if your current insurer offers this. Even if you have to switch providers, the savings can sometimes make it totally worth the hassle of moving your policies. It’s one of those simple things that can really add up over time.

Raise Your Deductible

So, you want to lower your monthly car insurance bill? One way to do that is by increasing your deductible. Think of your deductible as the amount you agree to pay yourself before your insurance company steps in to cover the rest after an accident.

By choosing a higher deductible, you’re essentially telling the insurance company you’re willing to take on a bit more financial risk upfront, and in return, they’ll lower your regular premium. It’s a trade-off, for sure. You’ll save money month-to-month, but you need to be prepared for that larger out-of-pocket cost if you ever need to file a claim.

Here’s a quick look at how it might work:

$500 Deductible: Might mean a higher monthly premium.
$1,000 Deductible: Often leads to a lower monthly premium.
$1,500 Deductible: Usually results in even lower monthly premiums.

It’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider to see the exact premium difference for various deductible amounts. Just make sure you actually have the cash saved up to cover that higher deductible. If you’re someone who doesn’t file claims often and has a decent emergency fund, this could be a smart move to cut down on your insurance costs.

Before you make the switch, really think about your financial situation. Can you comfortably afford to pay that higher deductible if something unexpected happens? It’s a balance between saving money now and being prepared for the future.

Take Advantage of Discounts

You know, insurance companies aren’t just handing out policies; they’re also looking for reasons to give you a break on the price. It’s like they want you to ask for it. Seriously, there are so many discounts you might be missing out on, and they can really add up. Think about it – why pay full price if you don’t have to?

Most companies offer a bunch of these, but they don’t always advertise them. You usually have to ask. Some common ones include:

Safe Driver Discount: If you’ve managed to avoid tickets and accidents for a few years, you’re probably eligible.
Low Mileage Discount: If you don’t drive much, like me since I started working from home, this is a big one.
Good Student Discount: If you have a teen driver on your policy who’s keeping their grades up, this can save you money.
Safety Features Discount: Cars with anti-theft systems or other safety tech might get you a discount.
Bundling Discount: Like we talked about before, if you have your home and auto with the same company, you often get a deal.

Don’t just assume you’re getting all the discounts you deserve. Make it a point to ask your insurance agent or check their website. It’s a simple conversation that could put more money back in your pocket each month.

It’s worth checking what’s available. You might be surprised at how much you can save just by asking about a discount or two. It’s not like they’re going to offer it automatically, you know?

Review and Adjust Your Coverage

When was the last time you really looked at your insurance policy? Like, not just glancing at the bill, but combing through the types of coverage you pay for. It’s not uncommon for people to keep the same policy year after year—even as life changes. It’s easy to spend hundreds (sometimes thousands) on coverage you simply don’t need anymore.

Here’s how to make sure you’re getting what you pay for:

Review your policy once a year, especially after big life changes (new car, marriage, moving, kids moving out, etc.).
Check if you’re carrying unnecessary extras, like collision on an older car that’s already lost most of its value.
Know your state’s minimum required coverage—there’s no sense paying double unless you truly need the extra cushion.
Ask your agent to walk you through every line item, so you actually understand what each coverage means.

Coverage Type	When to Reduce	Common Savings
Collision	Car is older and paid off	$100–$400/yr
Roadside Assistance	Already included with your credit card or car warranty	$15–$60/yr
Rental Reimbursement	Have a backup car or public transit	$30–$100/yr

Sticking with the same coverage just because “it’s what you’ve always had” is a quick way to waste money. Double-check every option—being informed is your best strategy for keeping costs down.

Take Advantage of Low Mileage Discounts

Do you find yourself driving less these days? Maybe you work from home, use public transport, or just don’t have a long commute. If so, you might be sitting on a goldmine of savings without even realizing it. Many insurance companies offer a discount specifically for drivers who don’t rack up a lot of miles each year. It’s a straightforward way to lower your car insurance bill.

Think about it: if you’re not on the road as much, you’re statistically less likely to be involved in an accident. Insurers recognize this reduced risk and are often willing to pass those savings on to you. It’s a win-win situation. You get cheaper insurance, and they have fewer claims to worry about.

So, how do you tap into this? First, figure out roughly how many miles you drive annually. Many insurers consider drivers who put in under 10,000 miles a year to be low-mileage drivers, but this number can vary. Some might even go lower, like 7,500 miles.

Here’s what you can do:

Check your current policy: See if a low mileage discount is already applied. Sometimes it’s automatic, but often you need to ask.
Contact your insurer: If you don’t see it, call them up and ask about their low mileage discount program. Be ready to provide an estimate of your annual mileage.
Consider telematics: Some companies offer apps or devices that track your mileage (and sometimes driving habits) to verify your low usage and potentially offer even better rates. Just be sure you’re comfortable with that level of tracking.
Shop around: If your current insurer doesn’t offer a good low mileage discount, or if you’re not getting a good rate overall, it might be time to compare quotes from other companies. You might find a better deal elsewhere.

Don’t just assume you won’t qualify. Even if you drive a bit more than the typical low-mileage driver, it’s worth asking. You might be surprised at how much you can save just by letting them know you’re not spending all your time on the road. It’s a simple adjustment that can lead to significant savings over time, helping you keep more money in your pocket instead of sending it to your insurer.

Remember to be honest about your mileage. Misrepresenting your driving habits could lead to issues with your policy down the line. But if you genuinely drive less, this is a fantastic way to reduce your car insurance costs.

Install an App to Track Your Driving Habits

You know, insurance companies are getting pretty smart about how they price policies. One way they’re doing this is by looking at how you actually drive. Many insurers now have apps you can put on your phone that track your driving habits. This can be a really good way to save money if you’re a safe driver.

These apps usually monitor things like how fast you’re going, if you brake hard, accelerate too quickly, or if you’re using your phone while driving. It’s all about rewarding good behavior behind the wheel. If you’re someone who generally drives smoothly and avoids risky maneuvers, you could see a nice discount on your premium. It’s kind of like getting points for good driving, but instead of bragging rights, you get lower insurance bills.

Here’s a quick look at what these apps typically track:

Speeding
Hard braking
Sudden acceleration
Time of day you drive (some insurers might charge more for late-night driving)
Phone usage while driving

It’s not just about saving money, though. These apps can also give you feedback on your own driving. You might not even realize you have a habit of braking too hard, for example, until the app points it out. This kind of insight can help you become a safer driver overall, which is a win-win. You get a discount, and you improve your driving skills. You can explore smartphone apps designed to enhance safer driving for learner drivers, which often monitor acceleration, speed, cornering, and phone usage. Some even offer crash detection and roadside assistance, giving you peace of mind on the go. Check out driving behavior apps to see what’s available.

Just remember to read the app’s privacy policy carefully. You want to know what data they’re collecting and how they’re using it before you agree to install it. Most reputable companies are transparent about this, but it’s always good to be informed.

Pay Your Premium in Full

You know, sometimes the simplest things can save you a bit of cash. Paying your car insurance premium all at once, instead of spreading it out over months, is one of those things. Many insurance companies actually give you a little break on the total cost if you can swing it. It’s like a thank you for not making them chase you for payments all year.

Think about it: instead of paying, say, $100 a month for 12 months, you pay $1150 upfront. That might seem like a lot to fork over at once, but you could end up saving $50 or more compared to paying monthly. It really depends on the company, but it’s definitely worth asking about. This is a straightforward way to cut down on your overall insurance expenses without changing your coverage at all. It’s a good idea to check with your provider about potential payment discounts when you’re reviewing your policy options.

Paying your premium in full upfront can sometimes lead to a discount. It’s a simple financial move that many insurers offer as an incentive for prompt payment.

It’s not always feasible for everyone, of course. If your budget is tight, monthly payments are probably the way to go. But if you have some savings and can manage the lump sum, it’s a pretty easy hack to put a little extra money back in your pocket. Just make sure you factor it into your budget so you don’t end up short on other important bills.

Delaying the Claims Process

Insurance companies sometimes use delays as a tactic to wear you down. They might take a really long time to get back to you, or ask for the same paperwork multiple times. It’s like they’re hoping you’ll get tired of waiting and just accept a lower offer to get things over with.

This can be especially tough when you’re dealing with mounting bills and lost income. They know that the longer they drag things out, the more pressure you’ll feel to settle quickly, even if it means getting less than your claim is actually worth. It’s a way to make you feel desperate.

Here are some common delaying tactics:

Taking ages to respond to your calls or emails.
Putting you on long holds when you do get through.
Claiming they haven’t received documents you’ve already sent.
Taking an unreasonable amount of time to review your claim.
Waiting until important deadlines have passed before making a decision.

Don’t let them rush you into a bad settlement. It’s important to stay patient and persistent. If you feel like the process is being unreasonably delayed, it might be a good time to talk to a legal professional who can help push things along.

Using Your Words Against You

You know, it’s wild how much what you say can impact your insurance claim. Insurance adjusters are trained to listen carefully, and sometimes, they can twist your own words to work against you. It’s not always malicious, but it happens. They might ask you for a recorded statement early on, and while it seems like a normal part of the process, it’s really a chance for them to gather information.

Think about it: if you say you’re “feeling better” after an accident, even if you’re still in pain, they could use that to argue your injuries aren’t that serious. Or if they ask about your activities and you mention going for a short walk, they might try to say that contradicts your claim of being unable to do anything. It’s like they’re looking for any little thing to minimize your claim or even deny it.

Here are a few things to watch out for:

Recorded Statements: Be cautious. You’re often not required to give one right away, especially to the other party’s insurance. If you do, stick to the facts and avoid speculation.
Casual Conversation: Even talking to friends or family about your accident can be risky if it’s overheard or recorded. What you say casually might be taken out of context.
Social Media: What you post online can also be used. If you post pictures of yourself doing activities that seem to contradict your injury claims, it could be used against you.

It’s really important to be mindful of what you say to anyone representing the insurance company. They are professionals whose job is to assess claims, and sometimes that involves finding reasons to reduce payouts. If you’re unsure about what to say or how to phrase things, it’s always best to have a legal professional guide you.

So, what’s the best approach? Generally, it’s a good idea to let your attorney handle most of the communication. They know how to talk to adjusters and protect your interests. If you have to speak with them directly, keep your answers brief, factual, and avoid guessing or exaggerating. Your words are powerful, so use them wisely.

Offering a Quick or Simple Settlement

You know, after an accident, things can get pretty overwhelming. Bills start piling up, and you might be feeling the pressure to just get things sorted out quickly. That’s exactly when an insurance company might swoop in with what seems like a “quick settlement.” They’ll offer you a lump sum, making it sound like the easiest way to wrap things up. But here’s the catch: this offer is often way less than what your claim is actually worth.

They’re hoping you’ll take the money before you fully understand the extent of your injuries or the long-term costs. It’s a classic tactic to save themselves money, and it can leave you seriously shortchanged down the road. Think about it – if you haven’t seen all your doctors yet or know how your recovery will go, how can you possibly know what a fair settlement looks like?

Here’s why you should be wary of these speedy offers:

Incomplete Medical Picture: You might not know the full scope of your injuries, including future medical needs or long-term pain.
Lost Earning Potential: Calculating future lost wages can be tricky, and a quick offer won’t account for this.
Hidden Costs: There could be rehabilitation, therapy, or other expenses you haven’t even considered yet.
Finality: Once you accept a settlement, that’s usually it. You can’t go back for more money later, even if your situation worsens.

It’s tempting to grab that cash and move on, especially when you’re stressed. But taking the first offer, especially if it comes quickly, is a gamble you’re likely to lose. It’s always better to wait until you have a clear picture of your damages and have consulted with someone who knows the ropes.

Discourage You From Contacting a Lawyer

You might hear things like, “This is a straightforward case, no need for a lawyer,” or “Hiring an attorney will just cost you more money and slow things down.” Insurance companies often prefer to deal directly with you because they believe they can get you to accept a lower settlement. They want to avoid having a legal professional on the other side who knows how to properly value your claim and protect your rights. Don’t fall for the idea that lawyers are just an unnecessary expense. A good lawyer can actually help you get a much larger settlement, often far exceeding any fees they charge, especially if they work on a contingency basis where you only pay if you win.

Here’s what they might say:

“We’re here to help you; we’ll take care of everything.”
“It’s a simple claim, you don’t need to involve anyone else.”
“Why pay an attorney when we can settle this quickly with you directly?”

These statements are usually designed to keep you from getting professional advice that could significantly increase your payout. They know that an experienced attorney can spot tactics they use to minimize your compensation.

Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to make a profit. One of the main ways they do this is by paying out as little as possible on claims. While they might seem helpful, their tactics are often aimed at reducing the amount of money you receive.

Confuse Policyholders with Cryptic Fine Print

You know, insurance policies can sometimes feel like they’re written in a secret code. It’s like they want you to get lost in the details. Many policies are packed with jargon and complex sentences that are really hard to understand. Even if you try to read it all, you might not actually grasp what you’re agreeing to. This is a tactic some companies use to make things difficult later on.

Think about it: you pay your premiums faithfully, expecting coverage, but then a specific clause you never really understood comes up and changes everything. It’s frustrating, right? For example, some policies might have clauses about specific types of damage that aren’t immediately obvious. You might think you’re covered for wind damage, but a hidden clause could say flood damage, which often happens alongside wind, isn’t included. This can leave homeowners in a tough spot, especially after major weather events.

It’s not just home insurance, either. With auto policies, you might assume if your car is totaled, you’ll get the full market value. But then depreciation comes into play, and you could end up owing money on a car you no longer have. It’s a real shocker.

Here’s what you can do:

Read your policy thoroughly, even the parts that seem boring. If something doesn’t make sense, ask your agent for clarification.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Seriously, no question is too small. You’re paying for this, after all.
Keep records of all your conversations and any documents you receive. This can be helpful if there’s ever a disagreement.

It’s important to be skeptical of insurance hacks shared online, especially those promising unrealistic savings. Always verify insurance information with trusted sources to avoid falling for scams.

Disputing the Severity of Your Injuries

So, you’ve been in an accident, and you’re dealing with the aftermath. The insurance adjuster might seem helpful at first, but don’t be fooled. One of their favorite tactics is to question just how bad your injuries really are. They might suggest your pain is exaggerated or that the issue you’re having is something you dealt with before the accident even happened. It’s a way for them to try and lower the amount they have to pay out.

They might even bring in their own medical folks to give an opinion that doesn’t quite match what your doctor is saying. It can be really confusing and frustrating when you’re just trying to get better.

Here’s what they might do:

Claim your injury is a pre-existing condition.
Suggest you’re exaggerating your symptoms to get more money.
Hire their own medical experts to contradict your doctor’s findings.
Downplay the impact your injuries have on your daily life.

It’s important to remember that insurance companies are businesses, and their main goal is to make a profit. This often means minimizing payouts on claims. They’re not necessarily looking out for your best interests.

Don’t let them convince you that your pain isn’t real or that your recovery isn’t as serious as you know it to be. Keep all your medical records organized and be honest about how you’re feeling. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to talk to a lawyer who understands these tactics.

Underestimating Your Future Medical Needs

When you’ve been injured, figuring out all the medical care you’ll need down the road can be tough. Insurance companies know this, and they often try to lowball your claim by not fully considering future treatments. They might say a surgery isn’t necessary or that physical therapy isn’t needed anymore, even if your doctor recommends it. This is a common tactic to save themselves money, but it can leave you paying a lot out of pocket later.

They’re hoping you won’t fully grasp the long-term costs associated with your injuries.

Here’s what they might do:

Downplay the severity of your current condition.
Argue that your injuries are from a pre-existing issue, not the accident.
Suggest that your recovery will be much faster than it actually is.
Ignore or minimize the need for ongoing therapy or specialized care.

It’s important to get a clear picture of your medical prognosis. This often involves consulting with multiple specialists to understand the full scope of your recovery. Don’t let an insurance adjuster dictate your future health needs. Understanding the potential costs of future medical care is a key part of getting fair compensation for your injuries. You can get more information about future medical care costs in personal injury claims here.

Insurance companies are in the business of making money, and that means paying out as little as possible on claims. Underestimating your future medical needs is a classic way they try to achieve this. They might even bring in their own medical experts to contradict your doctor’s opinion, hoping to convince you that extensive future treatment isn’t required.

Minimizing Non-Economic Damages

Insurance companies often try to lowball you when it comes to things like pain and suffering, emotional distress, or the general loss of enjoyment in life after an accident. These aren’t as easy to put a number on as, say, your medical bills, so they’ll often offer a settlement that doesn’t really reflect how much the incident has impacted your daily life and overall well-being.

They might argue that your pain isn’t that bad, or that you’re exaggerating how much you’re suffering. Sometimes they’ll even bring in their own medical experts to say your condition isn’t as serious as you claim, or that it’s not directly related to the accident.

Don’t accept the first offer without carefully considering how the accident has truly affected you.
Keep a journal detailing your pain levels, emotional state, and how your injuries prevent you from doing things you used to enjoy.
Gather statements from friends and family who can attest to how your life has changed.

It’s important to remember that compensation for non-economic damages is meant to acknowledge the real, albeit intangible, losses you’ve experienced. Don’t let an insurance company tell you your suffering isn’t worth much.

Exploiting the Statute of Limitations

You know, insurance companies can be pretty sneaky. One tactic they might use involves something called the statute of limitations. Basically, every state has a deadline for when you can file a lawsuit. If you’re trying to settle a claim, the insurance company might intentionally drag things out. They’ll keep you talking, ask for the same documents over and over, or just take ages to respond.

Their goal is to get you close to that deadline, hoping you’ll feel pressured to accept a lower settlement just because you’re worried about running out of time to take legal action. It’s a way to wear you down and get you to settle for less than your claim is actually worth.

Here’s how they might do it:

Unreasonable Delays: They might take weeks or even months to respond to your calls or emails.
Constant Requests for Information: They could ask for the same paperwork multiple times, even after you’ve already sent it.
Slow Decision-Making: They might take an excessively long time to review your claim or make an offer.

It’s important to be aware of these delay tactics. If you feel like negotiations are dragging on too long, especially as a deadline approaches, it might be time to talk to a lawyer. They can help make sure you don’t miss your chance to get a fair settlement.

Shifting Blame

It’s a classic move: when something goes wrong, the first instinct for some is to point the finger elsewhere. Insurance companies are masters at this, especially after an accident. They might try to pin some of the blame on you, even if it seems minor. This is often done to reduce the amount they have to pay out.

For example, if you were in a car accident, the insurance adjuster might claim you were speeding, even if you weren’t, or that you weren’t paying enough attention. They might even use something you said right after the accident, when you were probably shaken up, to suggest you were at fault. They want to make sure you understand that any fault on your part will directly lower your settlement.

Here’s how they might try to shift blame:

Exaggerating your role: They’ll look for any tiny detail to suggest you contributed to the accident.
Misinterpreting your statements: Something you said casually could be twisted to imply fault.
Ignoring other factors: They might conveniently forget about road conditions or the other driver’s actions.

It’s important to remember that insurance companies are businesses. Their goal is to make money, and that often means paying out as little as possible on claims. Being aware of these tactics is the first step in protecting yourself.

If they can prove you were even partially at fault, they can reduce your compensation by that percentage. So, if they say you were 20% responsible, you could lose 20% of your settlement. It’s a tactic designed to wear you down and make you accept less than you deserve.

Keeping Tabs on Your Social Media Accounts

It might seem a little invasive, but insurance companies sometimes check out your social media profiles after you file a claim. They’re looking for anything that might contradict what you’ve told them about your situation. For instance, if you’ve claimed a serious back injury, but your Facebook photos show you lifting heavy objects or participating in a strenuous activity, they could use that against you. Even innocent posts can sometimes be twisted to question the validity of your claim. It’s wise to be mindful of what you share online, especially when a claim is pending.

Here’s what they might be looking for:

Photos or videos showing you engaging in activities inconsistent with your reported injuries.
Posts that suggest you’re exaggerating your condition or pain levels.
Check-ins or tags at locations that don’t align with your stated limitations.

Remember, anything you post publicly can potentially be seen by the insurance company. It’s best to err on the side of caution and perhaps limit your social media activity or adjust your privacy settings during this time. You can find more information on how insurers operate on sites like this insurance resource.

Think of it this way: if you’re claiming you can’t lift anything due to an injury, but you post a picture of yourself at a concert standing for hours, that’s a red flag for them. They want to make sure your claim is legitimate, and sometimes they use social media as a tool to verify that. It’s not about being dishonest; it’s about being aware that your online presence can impact your claim.

Cancelling a Policy After a Mere Phone Call

It sounds a bit wild, right? You pay for insurance, you have a question about a potential claim, you call them up, and suddenly, they decide they don’t want your business anymore. But this actually happens. Some insurance companies, when you call just to inquire about filing a claim, will flag your policy. They might not even renew it when the term is up, or worse, they might cancel it outright. It’s like they see a phone call about a possible claim as the same as actually filing one.

This whole practice really feeds into that “you use it, you lose it” mentality that many people feel about insurance. It makes folks hesitant to even pick up the phone, even when they’re just trying to understand their options.

Here’s what you should know:

Insurers might view an inquiry as a claim: Even if you never submit the paperwork, a simple phone call to ask about coverage could be noted on your policy.
Non-renewal or cancellation can follow: This can leave you scrambling to find new coverage, potentially at a higher rate.
Fear of calling is a real issue: Many policyholders avoid asking questions for fear of repricing or cancellation.

It’s a tough spot to be in when you’re paying for protection but feel like you can’t even ask a question without risking your coverage. This tactic can make people feel trapped, unsure of how to get information without negative consequences.

The key takeaway here is to be aware that even asking about a claim can sometimes impact your policy’s future. Always check your policy documents or speak with a trusted advisor if you’re unsure about how your insurer handles inquiries.

Conjure Any Excuse to Deny the Claim

You know, sometimes it feels like insurance companies are masters of finding reasons not to pay out. It’s like they have a whole playbook dedicated to this. They might twist your words, take statements out of context, or even claim your policy has some obscure clause that means they don’t have to cover what happened.

It’s pretty wild how they can sometimes argue that an accident wasn’t really an ‘accident’ if they think it was intentional, or that your injuries aren’t as bad as you say because you mentioned feeling ‘better’ on a phone call. They might also try to say you were partially at fault, even if it’s a stretch, to reduce what they owe you.

Here are some common tactics they might use:

Misinterpreting Policy Language: They’ll dig into the fine print, looking for any loophole or ambiguity to get out of paying.
Questioning the Cause: Sometimes they’ll argue the cause of the damage or injury falls outside the policy’s scope.
Downplaying Severity: They might suggest your injuries or the damage aren’t as serious as you’re making them out to be.
Claiming Exclusions Apply: Insurers can try to argue that specific exclusions in your policy mean they aren’t liable.

It’s important to remember that while insurance companies are businesses, their goal is to protect themselves financially. This means they’ll often look for ways to minimize payouts. Staying informed and keeping good records is your best defense.

Wrapping It Up

So, there you have it. Insurance doesn’t have to be a black hole where your money disappears. By taking a few simple steps, like bundling policies, adjusting your deductible, and always asking about discounts, you can keep more cash in your pocket. It’s not about tricking the system, but rather understanding how it works so you can get the best deal. Don’t just set it and forget it; a little bit of attention can really pay off over time. You’ve got this!