Tips on insurance, car maintenance & ID theft protection for college students heading back to campus

As the 2024-2025 school year begins, it’s crucial to remind parents and college students how to stay safe on campus. Though being apart from your child can be challenging, the following tips and tricks will help provide peace of mind.

Insurance tips

• Dorm living: While living in a dorm, some personal items may not be covered under parents’ homeowners or renters insurance policies. According to AAA Home Insurance Services, in some states, some personal items may be subject to coverage limits or require a special student endorsement. Review your insurance coverage with your agent before heading to campus.
• Off-campus living: If you live off-campus, consider getting renters insurance to safeguard your belongings and protect yourself from liability if someone is accidentally injured on the property. AAA offers Renters Insurance. You can learn more and get in contact with an agent at aaa.com/insurance/home.

Auto insurance tips

• Insurance coverage: Coverage varies by location. If you bring a car to campus and stay on your parents’ policy, you’re likely still covered. For out-of-state students, confirm your coverage extends with you. If you’re away year-round, check with your agent to ensure you’re still covered. AAA offers Automotive Insurance. You can learn more and get in contact with an agent at aaa.com/insurance/auto.

Car maintenance tips

• Repair facility: Find a trusted repair facility near your college campus for routine or unexpected repairs. com/repair provides a list of AAA-approved auto repair facilities across the country.
• Oil changes: AAA Automotive Services recommends oil changes every six to 12 months or every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Ensure your college student is ready for the road by getting their oil changed before they head back to campus. With a AAA membership, you can receive $25 off an oil change every Thursday at Jiffy Lube.
• Roadside assistance: Parents can provide their student with a AAA membership (which can often be added to parent’s membership at no or very low cost) to provide peace of mind in case of a dead battery, flat tire, or other car problems. AAA membership services are available to members no matter whose vehicle they are in. All drivers are background checked and vetted.

Identity theft protection tips

• ProtectMyID: ID theft is the most common type of reported fraud, making up about 24 percent of all fraud complaints. College-bound students can protect themselves from identity theft by using ProtectMyID, the Experian Identity Theft Protection service that’s free to AAA members.

“Sending your child off to college is a big step, and we want to ensure that both parents and students have peace of mind when it comes to safety and security,” AAA Hoosier Motor Club President & CEO Matt Goins said. “From protecting personal belongings with the right insurance coverage to ensuring reliable car maintenance and safeguarding against identity theft, AAA is here to help families prepare for the school year ahead.”