Actuarial Decision Model

The 10% Insurance Rule

Stop Overinsuring Older Cars 10% • Max Annual Premium Ratio

Millions of drivers pay full coverage on aging vehicles that insurers would total for pennies. Here is how the actuarial 10% rule works.

The Core Disconnect

Depreciation vs Flat Premiums

Value Drops, Rate Stays High -15%/yr • Car Value Depreciation

Your cars actual cash value falls every year, but your collision premium barely drops. Over time, you pay more than the vehicle is worth.

The Formula

How to Calculate the 10% Rule

Simple Math Test Step 1 • Check Actual Cash Value

Look up your cars fair market value on Kelley Blue Book (KBB). Subtract your deductible to find your maximum insurance payout.

Step 2 • The Threshold

Compare Against Comp & Collision

Is Premium > 10% of Value? 10% Cap • Maximum Sensible Cost

If your annual comp and collision premiums exceed 10% of your maximum payout, drop them. You are mathematically losing money.

Real Example • Drop Case

2014 Sedan Worth $4,000

$500 Deductible + $600 Premium $3,500 • Max Insurance Payout

With a $500 deductible, max payout is $3,500. Paying $600/yr for comp and collision is 17% of total value—a clear financial loss.

The Self-Insurance Hack

Build Your Own Sinking Fund

Save $50/mo Into High-Yield $600/yr • Liquid Cash Saved

Drop physical coverage and divert that $50/mo into a savings account. Within 3 years, you have $1,800 cash without paying insurer markups.

Important Exception

When You MUST Keep Full Coverage

Active Auto Loans & Leases Mandatory • Lender Contract Requirement

If you have an active auto loan, your lienholder contractually requires full coverage with a maximum $1,000 deductible until paid off.

Liability Priority

Never Skimp on Liability

Protect Assets, Not Metal 250/500/100 • Recommended Limits

Dropping collision is smart, but never reduce bodily injury liability. State minimum limits leave your personal wages exposed to lawsuits.

3-Step Execution

How to Execute Today

3 Quick Actions 15 Mins • Policy Adjustment Time

1. Check KBB value. 2. If premium exceeds 10%, call carrier to drop collision. 3. Reinvest savings into emergency cash reserves.

Run the 10% Rule Coverage Calculator