FAQ: Whose name goes on the check?

Question: I got in an accident. Whose name goes on the check?

Answer: The named insured MUST be listed on the check under 99% of circumstances. If the car is repairable, the insured's name must be on the check. If the car is a total loss and you are upside down (you owe more than the car is worth), then they will only put the lienholder's name on the check.

After that, the answer is a little more gray. The registered owner's name should go on the check as well. The lienholder's name should go on the check if the car is repairable and you have not selected a body shop. If you have a body shop selected, then the shop's name should go on the check as well. If you own the car outright, only the insured's name and the owner's name should go on the check.

Clear as mud? Remember these simple rules:

1. The lienholder must be protected first.
2. The named insured must be protected.
3. The owner of the car must be protected.

If you keep that in mind, you can answer this anytime!