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

Do I have to tell my car insurance company about my lien?

When I sign up for insurance, they are aware of the lien on my vehicle and who the lienholder is right?

Mar 2, 2026 Buffalo, NY

Answer
Author profile picture
Ava Lynch
Director of Insurance Content

Ava joined The Zebra in 2016 as a licensed insurance agent and writer. She now serves as director of insurance content, leading coverage strategy and…

Credentials
  • 9+ years of Experience in the Insurance Industry

You must report a lienholder to your insurer


Insurance companies do not know who the lienholder is without it being explicitly provided, but many insurance agents will ask for it when they write the policy if you mention that your vehicle is financed. In general it's always recommended that you be as transparent as possible when getting car insurance quotes.

Also keep in mind the lienholder – aka lender, which can be a bank or other financial institution – will likely require that you list them on your car insurance policy until your loan is paid off, and may even require that you purchase a certain type of vehicle coverage. Hope this helps!

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's the difference between HO-2, HO-3, HO-4, HO-5 and HO-6 policies?

HO-1 through HO-6 policies differ in covered perils, property types, and protection levelsGood question! These numbers correspond to either home, renters, or condo insurance. Here is a simple breakdown:HO-1: Basic form — this only covers you from 10 named perils. "Named-peril" means that your home …
Mar 2, 2026 Bedford, OH

Why does Allstate count hail damage against you?

It might feel unfair, but yes, insurance companies like Allstate can decide not to renew your policy, even for things like hail damage. The bottom line is that insurance companies are businesses, and if your overall claims history signals too much risk, they may decide it’s no longer profitable to …
Mar 18, 2026 Amsterdam, NY

Do I have to file a claim with my insurance even when I'm not at fault?

I would not recommend speaking with your insurance company unless the other driver refuses to pay for the damages. Because you have the police report and hopefully the other driver's insurance information, you should call their insurance company and begin the claims process. If you do not have thei…
Apr 20, 2023 Wallkill, New York

How many cars can I list on my State Farm policy?

Most insurers cap policies at four vehicles, requiring a second policy for moreMost insurers, including State Farm, cap a single policy at 4 drivers and 4 vehicles. But if your household includes more—like a few teen drivers and multiple cars—don’t worry. It’s common, and there’s a simple solution.…