What’s an insurance endorsement?
Last updated: December 2021
An insurance endorsement, also called a rider, is a change to your insurance policy that adjusts your coverage. Adding an endorsement to your existing insurance contract usually means adding or modifying coverage. For instance, if you choose to purchase an optional coverage to broaden your insurance protection, it may be called an endorsement.
A common endorsement is scheduled personal property coverage, which you can buy as extra coverage for specific types of belongings. For example, you might have an insurance endorsement to add coverage for a valuable piece of jewelry, like an engagement ring, or expensive artwork.
A standard homeowners, condo or renters insurance policy usually offers restricted coverage for certain types of belongings. A scheduled personal property endorsement may provide higher coverage limits for a specific item (usually up to the item's appraised value) and protect it against additional risks. For instance, if you drop your diamond ring down the drain and are unable to retrieve it, a standard property insurance policy probably won't provide coverage. But an endorsement may offer protection against an accidental loss like that.
Do endorsements have deductibles?
When you add an endorsement to your insurance policy, you may be able to choose a lower deductible or no deductible at all in some situations — when adding scheduled personal property coverage, for example. Your deductible will likely still apply for belongings that are protected by your policy's personal property coverage, though. Talk to your insurance provider to be sure you understand when a deductible may and may not apply.
How long is an endorsement valid?
An endorsement is part of your insurance policy, and it will remain in effect typically as long as your policy is in force, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Some endorsements can have a limited term, which would be specified in your policy. You can also renew an endorsement when you renew your policy.
Other types of endorsements may include water backup coverage, which you may be able to purchase to supplement a homeowners insurance policy. On an auto insurance policy, you may be able to purchase an endorsement to provide expanded protection for a new car.
If you have questions about what your endorsement options are or would like to learn more about how endorsements work, contact your insurance provider.