
The Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund offers a range of insurance options for drivers who have been rejected by private insurance companies or are unable to find affordable coverage elsewhere.
You can purchase basic liability insurance through the Fund, which provides coverage for damages to others in the event of an accident.
This type of insurance is often required by law and is usually the most affordable option.
Basic liability insurance is available for as little as $60 a year, making it an attractive choice for drivers on a tight budget.
The Fund also offers full coverage insurance, which includes comprehensive and collision coverage in addition to liability insurance.
Full coverage insurance is more expensive, with annual premiums ranging from $800 to $1,200.
However, it provides greater financial protection in the event of an accident or vehicle theft.
What is Auto Fund?
The Maryland Auto Insurance Fund, also known as MAI, is a vital resource for Maryland drivers who can't get insurance through the voluntary market. It was founded in 1973 by the state of Maryland.
MAI does not turn down any Maryland motorists, unless their last policy cancellation was due to nonpayment of insurance premiums. This means that everyone can get coverage through MAI.
MAI operates as a mutual fund, meaning it's paid for by premiums from policyholders and its investment portfolio. This unique business model allows MAI to provide coverage to those who need it.
A network of over 1,400 agents from existing auto insurance agencies are authorized to write policies on behalf of MAI. This extensive network makes it easy to find an agent who can help you get covered.
Auto Insurance Eligibility and Coverage
To qualify for a Maryland Auto Insurance Fund (MAIF) policy, you need to prove that you were denied coverage from at least two different private insurance companies. If you have a clean driving record and no financial difficulties, you may be denied coverage through MAIF.
You can apply to MAI if you live in Maryland and have a valid driver's license. However, you'll also need to show that you've been turned down by at least two auto insurers in the state or that your policy has been canceled by your insurer because of actions that place you in the high-risk category.
Here are the mandatory coverage requirements for drivers using MAI: Mandatory coverageMaryland minimum required limitsBodily injury (BI)$30,000 per person/$60,000 per accidentProperty damage (PD)$15,000 per accidentUninsured/underinsured motorists BI (UM/UIMBI)$30,000 per person / $60,000 per accidentUninsured/underinsured motorists PD (UM/UIMPD)$15,000 per accidentPersonal injury protection (PIP)$2,500 full or limited
Auto Eligibility
To qualify for a Maryland Auto Insurance Fund policy, you need to have been denied coverage from at least two different private insurance companies.
You're considered high-risk if you have a history of accidents or other factors such as your age, travel plans, or the kind of vehicle you drive.
The state of Maryland founded the Maryland Auto Insurance Fund in 1973 to cover drivers who couldn't obtain the legally required auto insurance coverage from the voluntary market.
To be eligible for MAI, you must live in Maryland and have a valid driver's license, and you'll need to show that you've been turned down by at least two auto insurers in the state.
You may not be eligible for MAI if your policy was canceled by an insurer because you didn't pay your insurance premium, but if you pay that bill, you can apply to MAI.
MAI operates as a mutual fund, paid for by premiums received from policyholders and its investment portfolio, and it has a network of over 1,400 agents from existing auto insurance agencies authorized to write policies on its behalf.
Auto Coverage
Auto coverage in Maryland is a must-have for drivers. You'll need to carry a minimum of 30/60 bodily injury coverage and $15,000 in property damage coverage.
The mandatory coverage requirements are clearly outlined by the Maryland financial responsibility law. You'll also need to carry uninsured motorists coverage at 30/60/15 and personal injury protection (PIP) of $2,500.
Here are the mandatory coverage limits you'll need to meet:
You can choose to buy higher levels of coverage for all of these, and you should discuss your financial situation with your insurance agent to determine the right level of coverage for you.
Premiums and Payment Plans
You can save money on your MAI premiums by paying your year's worth of coverage up front, which will also result in a discount.
The Maryland Auto insurance company doesn't consider your credit score, education, or occupation when determining your premiums, making it a more straightforward process.
MAI offers three ways to pay for your policy: pay in full, interest-free installment plan, or finance through an extended payment plan with a third-party finance company.
Paying your premiums on time is crucial, as a lapse in payments will result in your policy being canceled, which could leave you without adequate auto insurance in Maryland.
A lapse in payments is automatically reported to Maryland's Motor Vehicle Administration, and you'll face penalties for driving without insurance in Maryland if you don't have coverage.
Getting Started
To get started with the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund, you'll need to meet the eligibility requirements.
The fund is available to drivers who are unable to get insurance through a private company due to a poor driving record.
To apply, you'll need to provide proof of financial responsibility, which can be a bond or a certificate of self-insurance.
History
Getting started with the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund (MAIF) requires a bit of background knowledge. The fund has a rich history dating back to 1957, when it was formerly known as the Unsatisfied Claim and Judgment Fund Board.
The name change to MAIF occurred on January 1, 1973. This marked a significant shift in the fund's identity and purpose.
How to Get

To get started, you'll need to have the right mindset. Be open to learning and experimenting, and don't be afraid to make mistakes.
First, identify your goals and what you want to achieve. This will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the process. In the article section "Understanding Your Goals", it's mentioned that setting clear objectives will help you make the most out of your efforts.
Next, gather the necessary resources and tools. This may include books, online courses, or software that can help you learn and grow. According to the section "Choosing the Right Tools", investing in quality resources will save you time and frustration in the long run.
Start small and take it one step at a time. Break down your goals into manageable tasks and focus on completing one task at a time. This will help you build momentum and confidence as you progress.
Remember, getting started is often the hardest part. Once you've taken the first step, you'll find that momentum builds and you'll be able to make progress faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does MAIF still exist?
Yes, MAIF still exists, now operating under the name Maryland Auto Insurance Fund. The company's name change is a simplification, not a rebranding.
Who has the lowest auto insurance rates in Maryland?
State Farm offers the lowest full-coverage car insurance rates in Maryland, averaging $117 per month. For liability insurance, State Farm is also the cheapest option, with rates around $62 per month.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maryland_Automobile_Insurance_Fund
- https://www.roadwayauto.com/2024/03/20/understanding-the-maryland-auto-insurance-fund-baltimore-md
- https://definitions.uslegal.com/m/maryland-automobile-insurance-fund/
- https://www.valuepenguin.com/auto-insurance/maryland/high-risk-plan
- https://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/25ind/html/07autof.html
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