Top 5 Most Overlooked Insurance Add-Ons That Save Thousands

When it comes to insurance, most people stick with the basics—auto, home, health, and life. But hidden in the fine print or tucked away in optional coverage sections are add-ons (also called riders or endorsements) that can offer powerful protection and unexpected savings.

These extras are often ignored because they sound unnecessary—until the moment you desperately need them. The truth is, some of the most overlooked insurance add-ons can save you thousands of dollars and a ton of stress.

Here are the top five worth your attention—and possibly your next policy update.

1. Rental Car Reimbursement (Auto Insurance)

You probably don’t think about transportation until your car is in the shop. After an accident, you could be without a vehicle for days—or even weeks—while it’s being repaired. That’s where rental car reimbursement steps in.

Covers the cost of a rental vehicle while your car is out of commission due to a covered loss.
Typically only adds $2–$10 per month to your premium.
Can save hundreds in rental costs if your claim drags on.

💡 Worth it if: You rely on your car daily and don’t have a backup.

2. Water Backup Coverage (Home Insurance)

Standard homeowners insurance doesn’t usually cover damage from backed-up drains or sump pump failures—and that kind of water damage can be devastating.

This add-on typically costs $30–$100 annually.
Covers cleanup, property loss, and repairs due to drain or sewer backups.
Average claim cost? $5,000 to $10,000.

💡 Worth it if: You live in an older home or a flood-prone area—even if you don’t have a basement.

3. Gap Insurance (Auto Insurance)

If you finance or lease a car, standard insurance might not fully cover your loan balance if your car is totaled. Enter: Gap insurance.

Covers the “gap” between your car’s current market value and what you still owe on your loan or lease.
Especially helpful during the first 2–3 years of vehicle ownership when depreciation is steep.
Can prevent you from owing thousands out of pocket on a car you no longer have.

💡 Worth it if: You put little or no money down on a new car, or have a long-term loan.

4. Disability Income Protection (Life/Health Insurance)

What happens if an injury or illness keeps you from working for months? Most people assume health insurance covers it—but your income isn’t protected unless you have disability coverage.

Short- and long-term disability add-ons replace a portion of your income while you recover.
Premiums depend on your job and age, but can be surprisingly affordable.
Protects against the financial fallout of temporary or permanent disability.

💡 Worth it if: Your lifestyle depends on your paycheck—and you don’t have 6+ months of savings.

5. Personal Property Rider (Home or Renters Insurance)

Standard policies have caps on what they’ll pay out for valuables like jewelry, art, electronics, or collectibles. A scheduled personal property rider raises those limits.

Covers specific high-value items at full value (often with no deductible).
Includes broader protections, like accidental loss or mysterious disappearance.
Can save thousands on lost or stolen valuables.

💡 Worth it if: You own expensive items that aren’t fully covered under your base policy.

Final Thoughts

Insurance isn’t just about covering the obvious—it’s about protecting against the unexpected. These five often-overlooked add-ons may seem minor at first, but they can be lifesavers in a crisis and keep you from paying massive bills out of pocket.

The next time you review your policy, don’t just ask “What am I covered for?”—ask “What am I missing?”

The right add-on, at the right time, could be the smartest financial move you ever make.