Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free
Question

Are insurance proceeds taxable?

I was in an accident recently where the other driver was at fault. When I get the payout for the damages to my vehicle, will I have to report them as part of my income?

Aug 4, 2023 Dudley, MO

Answer
Author profile picture
Ross Martin
Insurance Writer

Ross joined The Zebra as a writer and researcher in 2019. He specialized in writing insurance content to help shoppers make informed decisions.

Ross h…

Credentials
  • 5+ years in the Insurance Industry

Thanks for your question! In general, insurance proceeds, or money you receive as part of a claim or settlement, are not taxed. This is because insurance payouts are not actually making you money, but bringing you back to your previous status. The IRS only taxes income, while these proceeds are just "making you whole." This goes for bodily injury and property damage payouts.

If you have any further questions, please let us know

Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free

Insurance is complicated, but it doesn't have to be.

The Zebra searches all of the top insurance companies, in one place, so you can compare the cost and coverage you need to protect your car, home and other property.

Step 1: Tell us a little about yourself

Choose an insurance product and enter your zip code to get started.

Step 2: Sip your coffee while we find the best quotes

Enter the necessary information and then sit back while we find quotes from 100 top insurance carriers.

Step 3: Compare your quotes

Compare quotes side-by-side to find the right match for you, whether it's home, auto, or more.

Step 4: Let our agents do the hard work for you

Once you pick your policy, our agents are here to get you over the finish line. Then just relax and enjoy your savings.

Compare insurance rates today!

Pin
Shield checkmark No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Related Questions

Other people are also asking...

What happens if you hit your own car in your driveway?

If both vehicles were damaged in the same driveway accident, the best next step is to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to start a claim. How this gets handled depends on your coverage and how the vehicles are insured (as well as your specific company's policies).If both cars are o…
Apr 20, 2026 Carthage, MO

Safety’s quote is way cheaper, so am I missing something?

Safety Insurance often gives great rates, especially for drivers in Massachusetts, Maine, or New Hampshire. They’re not a scam; they’re actually a well-established regional company that’s been around since the 1970s. The reason their prices seem low is that Safety focuses mainly on lower-risk local…
Mar 26, 2026 Lynn, MA

Is Chubb really different, or just more expensive?

Chubb costs more due to premium coverage and serviceChubb does usually cost more, but what you’re paying for isn’t just the name. They’re known for handling things a little differently than a lot of bigger national insurers. Here are some of the key differences:Claims and service: Many customers sa…
Mar 2, 2026 Scottsdale, AZ

Will Travelers pay for OEM parts if my car needs repairs after an accident?

Travelers offers an OEM parts coverage option for newer cars, which guarantees original manufacturer parts are used in repairs. Without it, aftermarket or recycled parts may be substituted. So, it comes down to your specific vehicle and auto policy.OEM parts = made by your vehicle’s manufacturer (b…
Mar 26, 2026 Houston, TX