Sioux Falls: 
605-275-4041
Lake Lillian: 
320-664-4444

What Happens If You Miss a Payment? Insurance Lapses Explained!

What Happens If You Miss a Payment? Insurance Lapses Explained!

Life can get busy, and sometimes, even important things like paying your insurance premium can slip through the cracks. But what happens if you miss a payment? Let’s break it down in simple terms so you know exactly what to expect and how to avoid trouble.

The Immediate Impact of a Missed Payment

Missing an insurance payment doesn’t mean you’re immediately without coverage. Most insurance companies offer a grace period, ranging from 10 to 30 days, depending on your policy. During this time, your coverage remains active, giving you a chance to make the payment without penalties.

However, if you don’t pay by the end of the grace period, things can get serious. Your policy may lapse, which means you lose your insurance coverage entirely.

Risks of a Lapsed Insurance Policy

A lapse in coverage can leave you exposed to significant risks. For example:

  1. Car Insurance: If your car insurance lapses, you’re no longer protected against accidents or damages. Worse, driving without insurance is illegal in most states and can lead to fines, license suspension, or even legal trouble.
  2. Health Insurance: A lapse in health insurance could leave you footing the bill for medical expenses, which can be overwhelming in case of an emergency.
  3. Life Insurance: Missing a payment on your life insurance might mean your family loses the financial safety net you’ve worked hard to set up.

Reinstating a Policy After a Lapse

If your policy lapses, many insurers offer reinstatement options. You may have to pay the overdue premium and possibly a reinstatement fee. In some cases, you might even need to go through underwriting again, which could lead to higher premiums or denied coverage if your health or circumstances have changed.

Tips to Avoid Missing Payments

  • Set Up Auto-Pay: Ensure your premiums are paid on time every month.
  • Calendar Reminders: Mark due dates to stay on top of payments.
  • Communicate with Your Insurer: If you’re facing financial difficulties, contact us. We will offer flexible payment options.

Missing a payment doesn’t have to lead to disaster, but it’s essential to act quickly. Staying on top of your payments ensures you and your loved ones are always protected. After all, peace of mind is what insurance is all about!

Your Hobby Room Is Now a Home Office? Here’s What Changes When You Make Money From It!

Turning a hobby room into a home office can feel like a small shift—same space, same cozy chair, maybe just a better lamp. But the moment that space starts helping you earn money, a few behind-the-scenes financial rules begin to change, especially around taxes, budgeting, and everyday risk. 1. Your Home Office Changes How You […]

Read More

New Year, New Car? 5 Hidden Costs First-Time Buyers Miss Before Signing!

A new year and a new car can feel like a fresh start—no more worrying whether your old ride will make it through another icy commute or holiday road trip. But before you sign on the dotted line at the dealership, it helps to zoom out and look at the full picture of what owning […]

Read More
© 2026 First State Agency Designed by Amplispot
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram Skip to content