News  New Year, New Insurance Needs

The New Year isn’t just a time to reflect and set goals—it’s also an ideal time to review your insurance coverage and make sure you’re protected if the unexpected happens. As 2026 begins, Massachusetts residents should take a few simple steps to ensure their insurance policies still meet their needs.

• Review insurance policies. Check with your insurance agent or company to confirm that your coverages and limits are appropriate, as well as whether you’re receiving all available discounts. You should also consider purchasing additional insurance that you may not currently have, such as flood insurance for your home, or renter’s insurance if you rent an apartment.
• Notify your insurer of any changes. Life changes can affect your insurance needs. Be sure to update your insurer if you’ve added a newly licensed driver to your household, completed a renovation or addition, or experienced any other change that could impact your coverage.
• Consider optional endorsements. Optional coverage, such as oil leak coverage or collision coverage, will increase your premium, but they can provide valuable protection in the event of a covered loss. Talk with your agent about which endorsements or optional coverages make sense for your situation.
• Create a home inventory. An accurate home inventory gives your insurance carrier the information they need to help settle your claims. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners offers a helpful app to get you started: Home Inventory
• Know your network.  Even though you can’t shop for new health insurance outside of open enrollment, it’s still wise to review your current plan. Confirm what is and isn’t covered, check whether your doctors remain in-network, and note any changes to co-pays or other cost‑sharing requirements.
• Minimize risks. Take proactive steps to reduce the likelihood of future losses. This can include simple habits like driving more cautiously or adopting healthier routines, as well as larger tasks such as trimming tree branches that could fall during a storm.

Consumers with questions or concerns about their insurance coverage can call the Division’s Consumer Services Unit at (617) 521-7794 or visit the Division’s website at www.mass.gov/doi for valuable information regarding all lines of insurance.