Ask NJM

What Is a Declarations Page?

Your declarations page includes many details about your insurance policy, including your name and address, the policy endorsements, and limits for each coverage. The declarations page is often referred to as the “dec page.”

The additional information included in your declarations page depends on the policy type (auto, homeowners, or umbrella) and the selections you make. Here is basic information you’ll find in each.

Auto

  • Named Insured(s)
  • Policy Number and Policy Period
  • Covered Vehicle Information
  • Garaged location
  • Deductibles
  • Premium
  • Endorsements
  • Name of the Lienholder, Lender, or Loss Payee, if applicable

Homeowners

  • Named Insured(s)
  • Address of Property
  • Type of Homeowners Insurance (HO-3, HO-5)
  • Deductibles
  • Premium
  • Endorsements
  • Mortgage Holder
  • Policy Effective Date

Where can I find my declarations page?

The declarations page is usually the first page of your insurance policy. If you can’t find or access your policy packet, log in or call your insurance company to request a copy.

When would I need it?

The declarations page comes in handy when filing a claim. With it, you can confirm many of your coverages, limits, and deductibles.

Your declarations page is an official document and verifies your coverages, limits, and the insured(s) named in the policy. It is updated when changes are made during your policy term. For example, if you add an endorsement, your insurance company will update the dec page and send you a revised copy.

A declarations page is a great resource for quick, up-to-date information on your insurance policy.

Is a declarations page the same as proof of insurance?

Yes! When you’re purchasing a home or auto, your lender will require proof of insurance. Your declarations page can show your lender that you have the coverages and limits they require.

You can also use your declarations page as proof of insurance if you lose your auto insurance ID card.

What is the difference between a binder and a declarations page?

An insurance binder shows that you have temporary coverage. Both an insurance binder and a declarations page will indicate the start and end dates of coverage. A binder can last between 30 and 90 days, whereas a declarations page lasts the full term of the policy (typically six months to a year).

You might receive a binder if:

  • You need to have proof of coverage before your new insurance policy arrives in the mail

  • An insurance company needs time to confirm that you meet their underwriting criteria

  • You apply for an insurance policy with a future start date, but need to show proof of coverage to a lender in the meantime

The information and descriptions on this site are general in nature. The coverage afforded for a particular loss depends on the specific facts and the terms, exclusions, and limits of the actual policy. Nothing on this site alters the terms or conditions of any policy, as the policy controls coverage. Coverage options, limits, discounts, deductibles, and other features are subject to underwriting criteria, state availability, and effective dates. Coverage provided and underwritten by NJM Insurance Company and its subsidiaries, 301 Sullivan Way, W. Trenton, NJ 08628.