)
Licensed Realtor with 10+ years in personal finance content
Contributor to Nasdaq and USA Today
Daria is a licensed Realtor and resort property manager specializing in personal finance, real estate, and insurance topics. In her spare time, she practices photography.
Featured in
)
Sara Getman is an Associate Editor at Insurify and has been with the company since 2022. Prior to joining Insurify, Sara completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at Simmons University in Boston. At Simmons, she was the Editor-in-Chief for Sidelines Magazine (a literary and art publication), and wrote creative non-fiction.
Outside of work, Sara is an avid reader, and loves rock climbing, yoga, and crocheting.
)
)
David Marlett is the Managing Director of the Brantley Risk and Insurance Center. He is a professor in the Department of Finance, Banking, and Insurance at Appalachian State University and holds the IIANC Distinguished Professorship. David also serves on the Board of Directors for the Invest program and previously chaired the Loman Advisory Committee for the CPCU Society.
David has taught courses in Risk Management and Insurance for the last 25 years, starting at Florida State University while in the doctoral program. Prior to graduate school, David worked as a commercial lines underwriter for USF&G in Tampa.
He serves as a resource on insurance issues and is a frequent media contributor. He has been quoted by a wide range of outlets, including The New York Times, CNN, Reuters, and NPR.
David has been reviewing articles for Insurify since March 2025.
Updated
At Insurify, our goal is to help customers compare insurance products and find the best policy for them. We strive to provide open, honest, and unbiased information about the insurance products and services we review. Our hard-working team of data analysts, insurance experts, insurance agents, editors and writers, has put in thousands of hours of research to create the content found on our site.
We do receive compensation when a sale or referral occurs from many of the insurance providers and marketing partners on our site. That may impact which products we display and where they appear on our site. But it does not influence our meticulously researched editorial content, what we write about, or any reviews or recommendations we may make. We do not guarantee favorable reviews or any coverage at all in exchange for compensation.
Table of contents
First responders such as firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) make enormous personal sacrifices to provide vital services to their communities. Insurance companies sometimes reward that generosity with insurance discounts.
Not all insurance companies offer first responder discounts, so compare car insurance quotes from multiple insurers to confirm your eligibility and your potential savings.
This guide explains how first responder discounts work, how much they can save you, and some of the best companies that offer them.
First responders can save up to 15% on their auto insurance.
Some companies limit discounts to full-time career first responders.
California Casualty offers the most first-responder discounts, programs, and benefits.
Best car insurance companies for first responders
Several insurance companies offer occupation discounts, also referred to as “affinity” discounts, to people in first responder professions such as firefighting, law enforcement, and EMT services. Some offer additional benefits, including preferred pricing on products and services from partner merchants. Eligibility varies by insurer and by state.
You’ll find the best first responder insurance companies and discounts listed in the table below.
Insurance Company | Discount/Benefit | Eligibility | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| COUNTRY Financial | Up to 15% | Full-time firefighter, police officer, EMT, paramedic | Full-time first responders |
| Farmers | Varies | Firefighter, police | Former military members |
| GEICO | Up to 12% | Federal employees grade G7 and up | Current and retired federal employees |
| Liberty Mutual | 12% (average) | International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) members | Members of partner organizations |
| California Casualty |
| Firefighters, peace officers, EMS/rescue | Eligible first responders looking for benefits beyond discounts |
COUNTRY Financial: Best for full-time first responders
| User Reviews | 4.0 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 9.1 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $42/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $77/mo |
Customers appreciate the prompt claims service and personal touch but are frustrated by the constant rate increases and lack of discounts.
Customers appreciate the prompt claims service and personal touch but are frustrated by the constant rate increases and lack of discounts.
COUNTRY Financial’s first responder discount saves full-time firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and paramedics up to 15%. You can stack your savings by bundling your auto insurance with a home insurance policy. Because it’s for full-timers only, volunteers won’t qualify.
Unique discounts, including one for engaged couples
Low car insurance rates
AM Best financial strength rating of A+ (Superior)
Coverage limited to 19 states
No gap insurance
High number of complaints on the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) complaint index
Farmers Insurance: Best for active and retired military members
| User Reviews | 3.8 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 8.5 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $110/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $213/mo |
Customers appreciate the helpful agents and good initial quotes but dislike the consistent rate increases and lack of senior discounts. Some also reported issues with claim handling and communication.
Customers appreciate the helpful agents and good initial quotes but dislike the consistent rate increases and lack of senior discounts. Some also reported issues with claim handling and communication.
Farmers offers special insurance for certain affinity groups but doesn’t explicitly list any companies or occupations. But many firefighters, police officers, and EMTs are ex-military, so they’re eligible for Farmers’ military discount.[1] Affinity discounts also extend to spouses of insured members.
Comprehensive coverage options
Fewer complaints than expected on the NAIC complaint index
Can schedule or change claim-related repairs via self-service
May not be the cheapest insurer
Must talk to an insurance agent to find out about discount options
Participating in telematics program can result in higher premiums
GEICO: Best for current and retired federal responders
| User Reviews | 4.0 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 9.2 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $90/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $140/mo |
Customers appreciate the reliability and customer service but find the rates to be high and increase frequently, even without claims or accidents. The app has improved, but some find the claims process lacking.
Customers appreciate the reliability and customer service but find the rates to be high and increase frequently, even without claims or accidents. The app has improved, but some find the claims process lacking.
GEICO doesn’t have a specific discount for first responders. But it does offer Eagle Discounts of up to 12% to federal employees who are G7 or higher (or GS-11 equivalent for non-GS employees), so your service can still qualify you for savings.
Coverage available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C.
Optional mechanical breakdown coverage
Highly transparent discount information
Must be a federal employee or retiree to qualify
Can’t combine federal employee discount with another affinity discount
Below-average J.D. Power claims satisfaction rating
Liberty Mutual: Best for Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) and International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Members
| User Reviews | 3.5 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 7.7 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $157/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $213/mo |
Drivers appreciate the ease of making payments and the company’s helpful customer service. But they dislike the frequent and unexplained rate increases, and some report difficulties in communication and claim handling.
Drivers appreciate the ease of making payments and the company’s helpful customer service. But they dislike the frequent and unexplained rate increases, and some report difficulties in communication and claim handling.
Liberty Mutual’s first responder discount is for FOP and IAFF members only. While limited in scope, it’s a strong choice for members of those organizations.
Excellent optional coverages
Good selection of discounts
High J.D. Power claims satisfaction rating
EMTs not eligible for discount
More expensive than some other companies
Higher-than-expected number of complaints with the NAIC
California Casualty: Best for benefits beyond discounts
| User Reviews | NR |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | NR |
California Casualty is a top choice for first responders, and the company goes above and beyond to offer discounts and benefits to first responders.
The company offers discounts and special programs to EMTs, firefighters, and peace officers. It’s generally available to a broader range of responders (including nurses) compared to competing companies. The biggest downside is that it’s available in only seven states.
Outstanding benefits in addition to discounts
Specializes in first responder services
Partners with Mexican insurer for easier trips across the border
Available in only seven states
No mobile app
Limited customer service hours for non-claim issues
Who qualifies for first responder car insurance discounts?
When insurance companies use the term “first responder,” they typically mean firefighters, law enforcement officers (police officers, sheriffs, constables, corrections officers), emergency medical technicians, paramedics, 911 dispatchers, and, in some cases, nurses.
Every company has its own policy for who qualifies for the discount. For example, some give discounts to all active and retired first responders, while others offer it only to active or full-time paid responders. Depending on the company, discounts may also apply to the spouses of first responders.
You’ll have to show proof that you’re eligible for the discount. Plan to show your employee ID, recent pay stub, or proof of membership in a qualifying first responder organization when you apply for a policy.
How much first responders can save on car insurance
First responder discounts can save you up to 15% on your auto coverage. To see what that means in terms of actual savings on your insurance premium, consider this example: If your premium is $1,500 per year, a 15% discount would save you $225 per year.
First responder discounts are just one way to save money on your insurance policy. Many insurance companies also offer bundling discounts for customers who buy more than one policy type. Maintaining a clean driving record and taking a defensive driving course can lead to additional savings.
Other car insurance discounts to qualify for
First responders also qualify for other common car insurance discounts. Here are some discounts and perks first responders should look into:
Affiliation: Some companies offer services for first responder affiliation. For example, AAA offers free roadside assistance to all first responders, even if they aren’t AAA members.[2] Additionally, a high percentage of first responders are military veterans and may qualify for military discounts or better rates from USAA, a military-focused insurer.
Safe driver: Drivers with a clean record save 22%, on average. Many top insurers offer a good driver discount.
Multi-car: You can save up to 25% if you insure multiple personal cars under the same policy.
Bundling: Like a multi-car policy, bundling your auto and home or renters insurance can save you up to 25%.
Anti-theft features: Police officers are likely very familiar with car thefts, as there were more than 800,000 in 2024.[3] Adding a steering-wheel lock, a PASSLock system, or automatic locks can help you secure an anti-theft discount from many major insurers.
Additional benefits for first responders
Insurance companies sometimes offer first responder benefits in addition to discounts, such as the following:
Accident forgiveness: With accident forgiveness, your premium won’t increase the first time you cause a crash.
Vanishing deductible: Vanishing deductibles lower your deductible after each policy term you keep your driving record clear, so you pay less out of pocket if you file a claim.
Roadside assistance: This benefit saves you on towing and other emergency services without having to buy a separate membership.
Rental car reimbursement: If your car is out of commission after a crash, rental reimbursement saves you money on a car rental.
Priority claims handling: Being first in line for claims processing gets you back on the road sooner.
Pet coverage: Pet coverage helps pay vet bills if your pet is hurt in a car accident.
How to get car insurance as a first responder
Getting car insurance is easy, but you’ll have to take extra steps to get your first responder discount. Here’s how to do it:
1. Verify eligibility
Discounts are usually for full-time career first responders. Firefighters and EMTs working for volunteer fire departments or ambulance squads might not qualify.
2. Gather proof of employment or membership
You might need a verification letter to prove your first responder status.
3. Compare car insurance quotes
Compare similar coverage levels for liability-only or full coverage.
4. Ask about stackable discounts
Cumulative discounts can maximize savings.
5. Purchase your policy
You can usually buy online, or through an agent, either in person or by phone.
First responder car insurance FAQs
Not every insurer offers first responder discounts, and those that do might have differing benefits and eligibility criteria. Learn more with these answers to frequently asked questions.
Companies that give auto insurance discounts to first responders include COUNTRY Financial, Farmers, GEICO, Liberty Mutual, and California Casualty. This is not an exhaustive list, but it provides a good opportunity for comparison.
Retired first responders might qualify for discounts, depending on the insurer. GEICO is one company that discounts auto coverage for eligible retirees.
Some companies offer discounts on auto insurance premiums or extend benefits to the spouses of first responders. California Casualty’s fallen hero benefit helps pay insurance premiums of eligible first responders killed in the line of duty.
The national average for liability coverage is $99 per month, and full coverage averages $176 per month, according to Insurify data.
But these rates aren’t just for first responders who could save up to 15%. Your rate might be higher or lower, depending on your policy options, driving history, claims history, and other factors.
Related articles
)
Best Car Insurance for Doctors
)
Best Car Insurance for Nurses
)
Car Insurance for Unemployed Drivers: What to Know
)
Best Car Insurance Rates and Discounts for Teachers
)
Car Insurance for Self-Employed People
)
Best Car Insurance for Federal Employees
)
Best Car Insurance for Military and Veterans
)
Best Car Insurance for Delivery Drivers
Sources
- SpringerNature. "Veterans as First Responders."
- Aaa.com. "First Responders Roadside Assistance."
- NCIB. "2024 Vehicle Theft Trends."
)
Daria Uhlig is a freelance writer and editor with over a decade of experience creating personal finance content. Her work appears on USA Today, Nasdaq, MSN, Yahoo Finance, Fox Business, GOBankingRates and AOL. As a licensed Realtor and resort property manager, she specializes in real estate topics, including landlord, homeowners and renters insurance. In her spare time, Daria can be found photographing people and places on Maryland's Eastern Shore. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
Daria has been a contributor at Insurify since October 2022.
)
Sara Getman is an Associate Editor at Insurify and has been with the company since 2022. Prior to joining Insurify, Sara completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at Simmons University in Boston. At Simmons, she was the Editor-in-Chief for Sidelines Magazine (a literary and art publication), and wrote creative non-fiction.
Outside of work, Sara is an avid reader, and loves rock climbing, yoga, and crocheting.
)
)
David Marlett is the Managing Director of the Brantley Risk and Insurance Center. He is a professor in the Department of Finance, Banking, and Insurance at Appalachian State University and holds the IIANC Distinguished Professorship. David also serves on the Board of Directors for the Invest program and previously chaired the Loman Advisory Committee for the CPCU Society.
David has taught courses in Risk Management and Insurance for the last 25 years, starting at Florida State University while in the doctoral program. Prior to graduate school, David worked as a commercial lines underwriter for USF&G in Tampa.
He serves as a resource on insurance issues and is a frequent media contributor. He has been quoted by a wide range of outlets, including The New York Times, CNN, Reuters, and NPR.
David has been reviewing articles for Insurify since March 2025.
)
)