Being deployed? Home and auto insurance issues to consider before you leave

Soldiers preparing for deployment have no shortage of to-dos to take care of before they ship out. One item on your checklist that might be easy to forget - yet should not be ignored - is making the necessary adjustments to your home and auto insurance.

Since you'll be leaving the country for an extended period of time, it's in your best interest to make sure you are not paying for coverage you won't need when you are abroad. On the other hand, you'll want to make sure you do everything you can to protect your property - both what you leave behind and what you take with you.

Homeowners and renter's insurance

While you make adjustments to your home to keep it safe while you are away, it's equally important to check with your home insurance company to see how your homeowner's policy might change during that period.

If you live alone and don't plan on anyone occupying your home during your absence, it's a good idea to check to see if there's a vacancy clause in your home insurance coverage. Many policies have vacancy clauses that kick in after 60 days of absence, meaning you may not be able to file a claim if something happens after that period of absence. However, many companies also offer an endorsement that will allow coverage to continue during your deployment. The National Association of Insurance Companies recommends meeting with your agent to make sure your coverage can be continued while you are gone.

Renters should check with their providers of home renters insurance to see what is covered - both for items taken with you and left at home. Many soldiers don't pack a lot for their overseas duty, but laptops and other small electronic musical and movie devices are common. And a lot of the larger items like cars, sports equipment, jewelry and stereo systems are left behind. Homeowners may also want to consult their agents about coverage for personal property - left behind or taken with, which is likely spelled out in their personal property coverage.

Car insurance

If you are the only one who drives your car, you may want to consider suspending some or all of your coverage if it's allowed by your provider, according to the Connecticut Department of Insurance. If you have an auto loan, be sure to check with the lien holder first before canceling all coverage; some may require you to maintain continuous coverage. If friends or family members will be using your car while you are gone, you may want to look into temporarily removing yourself from the policy but keeping the other parties on the policy.

Once you've squared away these insurance issues, you'll feel better that your home and belongings may be protected while you are away.