January 2026: Asking for a Friend
Insurance can be confusing — and most people have questions they feel like they should already know the answer to.
That’s where Asking for a Friend comes in.
This monthly feature tackles real insurance questions we hear all the time — the ones people hesitate to ask because they don’t want to sound uninformed. (Spoiler: you’re not.)
No jargon. No judgment. Just clear, honest answers to help you make sense of how coverage actually works in real life.
Have a question of your own?
You’re probably not the only one wondering.
We’ll answer one or more questions each month — anonymously — in our newsletter and on the blog.
👀 ASKING FOR A FRIEND
JANUARY 2026
Can My College Student’s Belongings Be Covered Under My Insurance?
College comes with enough surprises — insurance coverage shouldn’t be one of them.
The question:
If my college student’s laptop, backpack, or personal belongings are stolen from their car or damaged in an accident, is that covered under auto insurance?
The short answer:
In many cases,
no — it’s not auto insurance.
It’s often
homeowners insurance.
How That Works
Most homeowners policies include personal property coverage that extends beyond the physical home. That means your student’s belongings may still be covered — even if they’re living in a dorm or apartment and even if the loss happens away from home.
For example:
- A laptop stolen from a parked car
- Personal items damaged during a covered incident
- Belongings lost due to theft while away at school
These situations are often handled under homeowners insurance, not auto insurance.
A Few Important Caveats
Coverage depends on:
- The specific policy
- Coverage limits
- Whether the student qualifies as a dependent
- The type of loss and circumstances
There may also be deductibles to consider, and in some cases, additional coverage (like a renter’s policy) makes more sense.
Why This Matters
This is one of those areas where assumptions can lead to frustration — or unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses. A quick conversation before something happens can make a big difference.
If you have a student in college (or heading there soon), it’s worth reviewing how their belongings are protected and whether your current coverage still fits your situation.
Not sure how your policy handles this? We’re happy to walk through it with you.
