Short answer: Tell your homeowners insurer that a parent is moving in, and ask whether they count as a resident relative covered for belongings and liability. Add them to your auto policy if they'll drive your cars. Check their health, Medicare and long-term care coverage, and get workers' comp or household employer coverage if you hire a caregiver.
Homeowners or renters
- [ ] Resident relative status. Many homeowners policies cover relatives who live in your household, but definitions vary. Ask the insurer whether your parent qualifies and whether their belongings are covered up to your personal property limit.
- [ ] Raise contents limits if they bring valuable items, and schedule jewelry or art.
- [ ] Their old policy. If they're keeping or selling their own home, keep it insured. See our inherited or vacant home checklist for vacancy rules.
- [ ] Modifications. Ramps, grab bars or an addition can increase rebuild cost, so update your dwelling limit.
Auto
- [ ] If they'll drive your cars, list them on the policy.
- [ ] If they keep their own car, it should be insured at your address.
- [ ] If they stop driving, ask about removing them or adding a driver exclusion where allowed.
Health, Medicare and long-term care
- [ ] If they're moving from another state, check whether their Medicare Advantage or Part D plan works at the new address. A move can open a special enrollment period. See Medicare.gov.
- [ ] Review any long-term care policy's benefits for home care.
Caregivers
- [ ] If you hire an in-home caregiver directly, you may be a household employer. Some states require workers' comp for domestic workers. See our workers' comp requirements by state.
- [ ] If you use an agency, ask for proof of its workers' comp and liability coverage.
Liability
More people in the home can mean more liability exposure. An umbrella policy adds limits above home and auto.
Bottom line
Make one call to your home insurer and one to your auto insurer before the move, then review health and caregiver coverage.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. Vea umbrella insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Is my parent covered under my homeowners policy if they move in?
Often, as a resident relative, but definitions vary. Ask your insurer.
Do I need to add my parent to my auto policy?
If they will drive your cars or keep a car at your address, tell your insurer.
Do I need workers' comp for a caregiver I hire?
Possibly. Some states require it for domestic workers; check your state's rules.
Will Medicare coverage change after the move?
A move can affect Medicare Advantage or Part D plans and may open a special enrollment period.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.