Insurance Tips for Connecticut College Students and Their Parents

The end of summer means move-in day for college students in Connecticut and their parents. It can be a bittersweet moment as parents part with the babies they raised from diapers to dorms. The need to protect those young adults doesn’t go away.

Connecticut Insurance Department (CID) offers a few simple tips to help parents and students stay protected this school year.

Living On Campus or At Home

Insurance needs can differ based on where a student is living. If a student lives at home and commutes to class, their belongings are usually covered under their parent or guardian's homeowner’s insurance policy, with certain limitations. Homeowners insurance generally provides coverage for students residing in dormitories or on-campus housing as well. Check with your agent or insurance company to verify that you have this coverage. Students may also be able to get additional coverage for their smart phones, laptops and other personal electronic devices.

Renting or Leasing

For students who rent or lease housing while attending school, renter’s insurance protects personal belongings and typically includes liability protection in case of an accident in the rental unit. It may also be required by landlords. Note that a landlord's insurance policy does not cover a student's personal items.

Auto Insurance

College students may qualify for auto insurance discounts based on good grades, safe driving records, or participation in extracurricular activities. Let your agent or insurance company know if your child is bringing a car to campus. Changing the vehicle's location can impact premiums and coverage. Out-of-state students should also confirm that their policy extends across state lines. And even if a student is not taking a car, maintaining coverage can help prevent gaps in insurance history, which could lead to higher premiums later.

Cyber Protection

As students increasingly rely on laptops, smartphones, and online accounts, cyber risks are a growing concern. Coverage for identity theft and cyber protection can sometimes be added to renters or homeowner’s insurance policies. This coverage can assist with costs associated with fraudulent credit card use, hacked accounts, or stolen personal information.

Emergency Preparedness

Students should have quick access to their insurance information in case of an emergency. Save digital copies of policies, ID cards, and contact numbers in a secure and easily accessible location, such as a password-protected phone folder or cloud storage. Having a clear record of policy details will streamline the claims process if belongings are stolen, damaged, or lost due to severe weather. To help you organize your policies and possessions, the Insurance Department provides an inventory checklist and online tool from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

Useful Tips

• Consider obtaining renters insurance if your student is living off-campus.
• Ask your college if they partner with insurance providers for student discounts.
• Compare quotes to find the best price and coverage that meets your needs.
• Create an inventory of belongings with photos before moving in. This makes claims easier.
• Secure coverage before moving day. Some insurers may not issue new policies if severe weather is in the forecast.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Connecticut Insurance Department via email at insurance@ct.gov or by calling 860-297-3900.

The information on this site is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Any description of coverages and policies are necessarily simplified and should not be construed as specific coverage, legal or other professional advice. You should read your policy for a complete description of coverage. Certain coverages and policy features may vary by state and individual policy terms. Please consult with your insurance producer or insurance company to determine your specific coverage needs. The CID makes no representations or warranties that the materials on this site are suitable for your needs, are complete, timely, reliable, accurate or free from errors, inaccuracies or typographical mistakes.