A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance starts paying on a claim. Texas auto policies have separate deductibles for collision and comprehensive.
How it works
If your collision deductible is $500 and the repair estimate is $4,000, the insurer pays $3,500 and you pay $500. If the repair is less than $500, you pay for everything yourself.
Choosing your deductible
- $250 – higher premium, lower out-of-pocket
- $500 – common balance
- $1,000 – meaningfully cheaper premium, but you need the $1,000 available
- $2,500+ – lowest premium but high out-of-pocket risk
Special deductible rules
- Comprehensive deductibles often lower than collision
- Glass damage often has a $0 deductible add-on in Texas
- UMPD deductibles often lower than collision
- Pet injury and personal property coverages may have separate deductibles
Refund through subrogation
If you paid your deductible on a first-party claim and your insurer recovers from the at-fault driver, your deductible is refunded pro rata.
Frequently asked questions
What is a deductible?
The amount you pay out of pocket before insurance pays. Applies separately to comprehensive and collision in Texas.
What deductible should I choose?
$500 or $1,000 is typical. Pick what you can actually afford in an emergency.
Do I pay the deductible if I'm not at fault?
Yes initially, on a first-party claim. Refunded if your insurer recovers through subrogation.
Does liability have a deductible?
No. Liability coverage has no deductible.
Can I lower my deductible mid-policy?
Yes, but it raises the premium and a pending claim cannot retroactively use a lower deductible.
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This guide is part of our Claims Resource Center hub – see every related guide, or start from the El Paso auto insurance overview.
This article is for general information only and is not legal or tax advice. For guidance specific to your situation, talk to a licensed Texas insurance agent. Ready to put it into practice? Get a free quote or request a policy review.