Umbrella insurance can help protect your family’s assets. It can help cover the cost of a legal defense or a large judgment against you, so you’re not forced to liquidate assets to pay a settlement. But what happens if an incident involves your spouse specifically?
Automatic Coverage
Most spouses automatically qualify for coverage under an umbrella policy, provided they share the same residential address. Typically, they also need to be listed on the same home or auto policy as you. If you don’t own your home but carry renters insurance, your spouse would need to be listed on that policy as well. An agent at AW Burchell Agency Inc. in New York can help you understand these requirements in more detail.
Adding Them to the Policy
Most companies recommend formally adding a spouse as an "additional insured person" on the policy. Even if they automatically qualify for coverage by living with you, they generally can’t file claims independently without being listed. Adding them to the policy allows them to file claims and communicate directly with the insurance company if something happens, which is typically more convenient for everyone involved.
Exceptions
There are always exceptions. If your spouse maintains a separate residential address for any reason or carries their own separate policies, such as an individual auto policy, they may not automatically be covered under yours.
Umbrella policies also don’t cover business liabilities or intentional acts, and those same exclusions apply even if your spouse is included on the policy.
It’s best to speak directly with an agent at AW Burchell Agency Inc. rather than assuming your spouse is automatically covered. Contact us today to discuss your situation. We’re currently serving the New York area.
