The start of the school year always brings a flurry of activity: Target runs, campus tours, financial aid forms, new schedules, and late-night Amazon orders.

Whether your child is heading of to college for the first time or returning for another semester, one important item often gets left of the checklist, insurance.

At Crain Insurance Group, we know back-to-school season is exciting, hectic, and emotional. But it’s also a perfect time to review how well your student is protected, whether they’re living on campus, commuting from home, or renting an apartment of-site.

Let’s break down the key types of coverage college students and their families should consider so you can send them of with peace of mind.

Is Your Student’s Stuff Covered in a Dorm? (Hint: Maybe)

If your student lives in a college dorm and is still considered a dependent, their belongings are likely covered under your existing homeowners or renters’ policy.

Most homeowners’ policies provide 10% of personal property coverage of-premises. So, if you have $100,000 in personal property coverage, up to $10,000 may extend to their dorm room.

But here’s the catch:

• Coverage may be limited in value and types of loss (theft, fire, vandalism).

• High-value items like laptops, musical instruments, or bikes may require scheduled coverage or a separate rider.

• Your deductible applies, so small claims might not be worth filing.

Pro tip: Create an inventory of what your student is taking with them. Photos, serial numbers, and receipts make claims smoother if something gets damaged or stolen.

What If They’re Renting an Apartment Of-Campus?

Once your child moves of campus into a rented apartment or shared house, the coverage changes.

Your homeowner’s insurance no longer applies.

This is where renters’ insurance becomes essential.

A renter’s policy:

• Covers personal belongings (clothing, electronics, furniture, etc.)

• Provides liability coverage in case someone is injured in the unit

• May include loss of use if the apartment becomes uninhabitable

Bonus: Renters insurance is very affordable, often $10–$20/month. It’s a small price for big peace of mind, especially when most students have thousands of dollars in electronics and gear.

Auto Insurance: Are They Taking a Car to School?

Depending on whether your student is bringing a vehicle to campus, your auto insurance may need an update.

Here’s how it breaks down:

If They’re Taking a Car to School:

• Notify your insurance agent of the new address (especially if out of state).

• Ask if rates will change based on the new garaging location.

• Make sure the student is still listed as a primary driver on the vehicle.

If They’re NOT Taking a Car:

• Don’t remove them from your policy completely.

• Ask about a “student away at school” discount (usually applies if they’re over 100 miles away and don’t have regular access to a car).

• Keeping them on your policy ensures they’re still covered when they come home for breaks and holidays.

Pro tip: Even without a car, your student might need non-owner coverage if they borrow or rent cars occasionally.

Identity Theft Protection for Tech-Savvy Students

College students are particularly vulnerable to identity theft and online fraud:

• They share Wi-Fi networks

• Use public computers

• Sign up for tons of apps and services

• Rarely check their credit reports

Some homeowners or renters policies offer identity theft endorsements for as little as

$1–2/month. This provides restoration services and may cover legal or documentation expenses if your student’s identity is compromised.

Health Insurance: Are They Still on Your Plan?

Under current U.S. law, children can remain on their parents’ health insurance until age 26—even if they’re full-time students.

If your family has employer-provided health insurance, it may still offer the best network and benefits, even across state lines. But it’s smart to double-check:

• Are there in-network providers near campus?

• Is telehealth covered?

• What’s the process for emergency or urgent care out-of-state?

If your student is moving far away or your coverage is limited, the college may offer a

student health insurance plan. These typically provide:

• On-campus clinic access

• Preventive and mental health care

• Prescription drug coverage

Tip: Compare costs and benefits before deciding between family coverage and school- provided plans. You may also consider a supplemental accident or critical illness policy for added protection.

Liability Coverage: Umbrella Policies for Extra Protection

College life comes with risk, parties, social activities, shared housing, and online exposure. If your family owns significant assets (home equity, retirement accounts, investments), a single lawsuit could threaten your financial security.

That’s where an umbrella policy comes in. An umbrella policy provides:

• Extended liability coverage beyond your auto or renters’ policy

• Legal defense coverage for libel, slander, or lawsuits

• Protection for accidental injury or property damage involving your student It’s especially worth considering if:

• Your student is living of-campus and hosting guests

• They’re driving or sharing a vehicle

• They’re active on social media, have a large online presence, or are involved in athletics

Good news: Umbrella coverage is surprisingly affordable, starting around $150–$300/year for $1 million in extra protection.

Life Insurance for Student Loan Co-Signers

While it’s not fun to think about, life insurance is something to consider if:

• You’ve co-signed a private student loan for your child

• You’re paying for their education out of pocket

• They’re financially dependent on you

A term life insurance policy on your child (with you as the beneficiary) can help protect your financial investment in case the unthinkable happens.

On the flip side, if you’re the co-signer and something happens to you, your child may struggle to take on the debt or financial load. A simple term policy on your own life can cover student loans and tuition costs in the event of your death.

Job or Side Hustle? Time to Talk Business Coverage

Many students now take on freelance gigs, internships, or side hustles, whether it’s dog walking, content creation, tutoring, or DoorDash.

Here’s what many don’t realize:

• Personal auto insurance often doesn’t cover delivery driving or ride-share.

• Homeowners/renters policies may not cover business-related losses (like a stolen camera used for freelance work).

If your student is starting a business or earning income on the side, we can help evaluate whether they need:

• A business owner’s policy (BOP)

• Ride-share/delivery endorsements

• Professional liability coverage

Crain’s Back-to-School Insurance Checklist

Let’s recap with a quick checklist of what to review before your student heads back to campus:

• Dorm living: Confirm what’s covered by your homeowner’s policy

• Of-campus housing: Set up renters’ insurance

• Auto: Update address and usage, ask about discounts

• Health: Review current coverage or explore student health plans

• Identity theft: Consider adding protection

• Umbrella policy: Consider if you want added liability coverage

• Life insurance: Evaluate needs if loans are co-signed

• Side hustle: Discuss business-related risks

Final Thoughts: Sending Them Of with Confidence

At Crain Insurance Group, we know this season of life is full of transition, excitement, and uncertainty. And while you’re focused on dorm decor and financial aid forms, we’re here to handle the big-picture stuff, like making sure your student is covered from every angle.

A quick coverage review now can prevent big headaches later.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for general recommendation purposes only. Please consult with your own licensed insurance agent for advice specific to your situation. Insurance can vary by state. If you don’t have a trusted agent, we’re happy to assist with quotes and guidance.