How to Get an Insurance Declaration Page

An insurance declaration page, often called a “dec page,” serves as a concise summary of an insurance policy. It acts as the initial section of your policy documents, providing a high-level overview of the coverage you have in place. This document offers a snapshot of essential policy details, making it a quick reference for understanding your protections.

What an Insurance Declaration Page Contains

An insurance declaration page consolidates key details about your coverage. It typically lists the policyholder’s name and address, along with any other individuals or entities covered under the policy. The page also displays the unique policy number, which identifies your specific insurance contract and is essential for communication with your insurer.

The page outlines the policy’s effective and expiration dates. It details the types of coverage included, such as liability, collision, comprehensive for auto insurance, or dwelling, personal property, and liability for homeowners insurance. For each coverage type, the declaration page specifies the coverage limits, which represent the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for a covered loss.

The document states the deductible amount, which is the out-of-pocket sum you must pay before your insurance coverage begins to cover a claim. The declaration page also describes the insured property, such as the vehicle’s make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for auto policies, or the physical address of the property for home policies.

It also lists the total premium for the policy term, and may include a breakdown of discounts applied. Any endorsements or riders, which are additions or modifications to the standard policy, may also be noted.

Information to Gather Before Requesting

Gathering specific information streamlines the process of obtaining your insurance declaration page. Insurers require certain details to verify your identity and policy, which helps prevent delays.

You will need your full legal name as it appears on your policy, along with your current mailing address and potentially your date of birth. The policy number is also a foundational piece of information that uniquely identifies your coverage and allows the insurer to quickly locate your records. While not always required, some insurers may ask for the last four digits of your Social Security Number or other personal identification details for enhanced security verification.

For auto insurance policies, having the vehicle’s make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for each covered vehicle can be helpful. For homeowners insurance, confirming the insured property’s address is important. If you have multiple policies with the same insurer, knowing which specific policy you need will also prevent confusion.

Methods for Obtaining Your Declaration Page

Online Portal/Mobile App

Many insurance companies offer online portals or mobile applications that provide immediate access to policy documents. To use this method, you typically need to log in to your insurer’s website or app using your username and password. Once logged in, navigate to sections labeled “My Policies,” “Documents,” “Policy Details,” or similar. You should find an option to view, download, or print your declaration page directly from this section. This is often the fastest way to get your document.

Directly from the Insurer (Phone/Email)

If online access is not available or preferred, contacting your insurance provider directly is another common method. You can call the customer service number, usually found on your insurance card or the company’s website. Be prepared to provide the verification details, such as your full name, policy number, and date of birth, to confirm your identity. The representative can then email or mail the declaration page to you. When requesting by email, ensure you include your policy number and full name in the message, and specify that you need the declaration page sent to your email address on file or a secure alternative.

Through Your Insurance Agent/Broker

If you purchased your policy through an independent insurance agent or broker, they can assist you in obtaining your declaration page. Your agent acts as an intermediary with the insurance company and can often access your policy documents on your behalf. Contact your agent’s office and provide them with the necessary verification information. They can typically retrieve the document and send it to you via email, fax, or mail, often expediting the process.

Via Mail

Insurance companies frequently send updated declaration pages via postal mail when your policy renews or when significant changes are made to your coverage. If you prefer a physical copy or need a historical declaration page, you can request one be mailed to you. This method usually takes longer, typically 7 to 10 business days, depending on postal service and insurer processing times. Ensure your mailing address on file with the insurance company is current to avoid delivery issues.