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File-a-Claim Break-Even Calculator

Compare paying for minor damage yourself against filing a claim, once your deductible and a likely multi-year premium increase are both counted.

Ask your agent, or estimate 10-40% of your current premium — it varies a lot by insurer and state.
Not legal, financial, or insurance advice. This tool gives a general, educational estimate only. Insurance laws, deadlines, and formulas vary by state, by policy, and by insurer, and they change over time. Verify anything important with your insurance policy, your state department of insurance, or a licensed attorney before relying on it. Actual surcharge amounts and duration vary by insurer, state, and driving record — call your agent for an exact number before deciding.

The real cost of filing a small claim

For minor damage close to your deductible, the sticker cost of a claim (your deductible) is often not the full story — many insurers apply a surcharge to your premium for several years after an at-fault claim, which can add up to more than the repair itself.

Frequently asked questions

Will filing one small claim really raise my rate for years?

It depends on your insurer and state, but a single at-fault claim commonly affects your premium for 3-5 years (sometimes called a claim's 'surcharge period'), even after you've paid it off.

Does a not-at-fault claim still raise my premium?

In most states, a claim where you weren't at fault shouldn't raise your premium — but 'claim surcharging' rules differ by state and insurer, so it's worth confirming with your agent.