Though the end of winter is finally in sight, this may be the best time to consider bundling up. Of course, this means layering to stay warm – Here in NY, Old Man Winter still has 30 to 60 days to wreak havoc -- but it also means bundling your insurance policies. While the idea of bundling has caught on like wildfire with cable and Internet providers, cell phones companies and investment banking, it has just started to flicker to life with insurance agencies and policy holders alike.

The value statement with policy bundling is just that: value. By consolidating your policies with one agency you can not only save money, but you can also reduce the amount of paperwork you have to chase each month. So, for instance, if you were to bundle your homeowners and auto policies, you could save as much as 15% to 20% on your statements and only have paperwork from one agency to read through. And keep in mind, dealing with one agent – across all policies – is extremely convenient.
 

If bundling your policies has stoked your enthusiasm for saving and consolidating, here are two more tactics you can try. In terms of consolidating, you can ask to have your policy statements mailed together, at the same time. In terms of savings, you could increase your deductible but a factor of 2. While an increase from $500 to $1,000 may make you wince, you could be enjoying as much as 25% in additional savings! Most homeowners do not put in claims under $1000 anyway. Be warned though, once you start bundling, you may find it hard to stop.