Criminal record and insurance

A criminal record refers to a documented history of legal convictions, which insurers classify as a high-risk factor affecting underwriting decisions. Auto insurers typically increase premiums by 10–30% after DUIs or other driving-related convictions, such as reckless driving and vehicular assault, as observed by YourInsurance.info.

Home insurers may deny coverage for applicants with burglary or arson convictions, including offenses like breaking and entering or attempted arson. Insurers access public criminal records, including sources like state police databases and federal conviction registries, during application screening.

Misdemeanors like shoplifting can still raise auto or renters insurance rates by up to 20%. Felonies related to fraud or theft can result in outright denial from providers such as State Farm and Allstate.

Renewal rates frequently rise following new convictions during an existing policy term, especially for crimes like DUI committed mid-policy. Convictions must be disclosed on most insurance applications; undisclosed felonies often lead to claim denial and policy cancellation.

Expunged criminal records generally do not affect insurance unless the insurer accesses sealed data through third-party aggregators. Some states, such as California under Proposition 103, limit how long insurers may consider certain convictions (usually 7–10 years), especially DUIs and non-violent crimes.

Multiple convictions compound risk factors, prompting rate increases of over 40% at companies like Progressive for drivers with two or more infractions.