Cheap Gap Insurance in South Carolina (10 Most Affordable Companies for 2025)
Compare cheap gap insurance in South Carolina from top providers State Farm, Progressive, and Travelers, with rates from $60 per month. State Farm leads with Payoff Protector, offering financed vehicle owners added security with gap insurance in SC. Compare gap insurance in SC to save.
Free Car Insurance Comparison
Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Brad Larson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Brad Larson has been in the insurance industry for over 16 years. He specializes in helping clients navigate the claims process, with a particular emphasis on coverage analysis. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in Political Science. He also holds an Associate in Claims (AIC) and Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designations, as well as a Utah Property and Casual...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Mar 31, 2025
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Mar 31, 2025
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
18,154 reviewsCompany Facts
SC Gap Insurance
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Pros & Cons
18,154 reviews
13,283 reviewsCompany Facts
SC Gap Insurance
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Pros & Cons
13,283 reviews
1,733 reviewsCompany Facts
SC Gap Insurance
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Pros & Cons
1,733 reviewsState Farm, Progressive, and Travelers are the top providers of cheap gap insurance in South Carolina.
State Farm leads with its Payoff Protector, ensuring financed drivers avoid out-of-pocket losses if their vehicle is totaled.
Our Top 10 Company Picks: Cheap Gap Insurance in South Carolina
| Company | Rank | Monthly Rates | A.M. Best | Best For | Jump to Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | #1 | $60 | B | Trusted Brand | State Farm |
 | #2 | $71 | A+ | Online Tools | Progressive |
 | #3 | $72 | A++ | Industry Experience | Travelers |
 | #4 | $78 | A | Customizable Coverage | Safeco |
 | #5 | $80 | A+ | Comprehensive Coverage | Nationwide |
 | #6 | $83 | A | Policy Discounts | American Family |
 | #7 | $85 | A+ | Senior Drivers | The Hartford |
 | #8 | $90 | A+ | Customer Service | Allstate |
 | #9 | $113 | A | Tailored Policies | Farmers |
 | #10 | $125 | A | Flexible Options | Liberty Mutual |
Progressive dominates with its cutting-edge online tools, making policy management seamless. Travelers stands out for high-risk drivers, offering loan/lease gap coverage to bridge financial gaps effectively.
Get the best deals on cheap gap insurance in South Carolina using our free online quote comparison tool.
- Find the cheapest gap insurance in South Carolina with State Farm
- State Farm offers Payoff Protector for financed vehicle owners
- Gap insurance covers the difference if a car is totaled or stolen
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
#1 – State Farm: Top Overall Pick
Pros
- Reliable Gap Insurance: State Farm is known for its solid reputation and reliability, offering trustworthy gap insurance coverage in South Carolina.
- Cheap Gap Insurance Rates: State Farm gap insurance cost is the cheapest in South Carolina at $60 a month.
- Extensive Network: With a wide network of agents in South Carolina, State Farm provides easy access to personalized gap insurance assistance. Find additional details in our State Farm review.
Cons
- Complex Policy Details: Understanding the full extent of gap insurance coverage in South Carolina can be complex, and may require additional explanation from agents.
- Low Financial Ratings: Despite being the most popular company in the U.S., its low financial score makes it risky for gap coverage in South Carolina.
#2 – Progressive: Best Online Tools
Pros
- Cost-Effective Gap Insurance: Progressive offers some of the most affordable gap insurance rates in South Carolina, making it a budget-friendly choice.
- Easy Online Access: Progressive provides convenient online tools to manage and purchase gap insurance in South Carolina. Discover more in our Progressive review.
- Numerous Discounts: Progressive offers various discounts that can reduce the cost of gap insurance for South Carolinians.
Cons
- Basic Coverage Options: Progressive gap insurance may offer more basic coverage compared to other providers in South Carolina.
- Customer Service Issues: Some customers report less satisfactory customer service experiences with Progressive regarding cheap gap insurance in South Carolina.
#3 – Travelers: Best for Industry Experience
Pros
- Strong Financial Ratings: Travelers is one of the oldest and most reliable gap insurance companies in South Carolina. Find more ratings in our Travelers insurance review.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Offers comprehensive gap insurance coverage that meets various needs in South Carolina.
- New Car Discounts: South Carolinians buying gap insurance for a new car can earn a discount for vehicles less than three years old.
Cons
- Limited Local Presence: Travelers may have fewer local offices or agents in South Carolina, impacting direct access to gap insurance services.
- Discount Availability: Fewer discount options might be available for gap insurance compared to other providers in South Carolina.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
#4 – Safeco: Cheapest Customizable Coverage
Pros
- Flexible Gap Insurance: Safeco provides highly customizable gap insurance plans, allowing South Carolinians to adjust coverage to their individual needs.
- Competitive Pricing: Safeco gap insurance rates in South Carolina are often competitive, making it a cost-effective choice for many.
- Good Customer Support: Safeco customer service is known for assisting with gap insurance inquiries and adjustments effectively in South Carolina. Safeco’s Review offers more details.
Cons
- Limited Local Agents: Safeco may have fewer local agents in South Carolina, potentially making face-to-face service less accessible.
- Coverage Options Complexity: The range of customization options for gap insurance might be overwhelming for some customers in South Carolina.
#5 – Nationwide: Cheapest Comprehensive Coverage
Pros
- Extensive Gap Insurance Coverage: Nationwide provides comprehensive gap insurance coverage in South Carolina with a wide range of options.
- Good Customer Support: Offers strong customer support for gap insurance inquiries and claims in South Carolina. Discover our Nationwide review for a full list.
- Multi-Vehicle Discounts: If you insure more than one vehicle with South Carolina gap coverage, Nationwide will knock 20% off your rates.
Cons
- Higher Premiums: Comprehensive coverage may come with higher premiums, which could be a concern for some gap insurance in South Carolina.
- Complex Policy Terms: The terms of Nationwide gap insurance policies might be complex and require careful review in South Carolina.
#6 – American Family: Cheapest With Policy Discounts
Pros
- Discounts on Gap Insurance: American Family offers several discounts on gap insurance, which can significantly lower costs for South Carolinians.
- Comprehensive Coverage Options: AmFam provides comprehensive gap insurance coverage with various policy options tailored to South Carolinians.
- Good Customer Satisfaction: Known for customer satisfaction, American Family ensures quality service for gap insurance in South Carolina. Get details in our American Family review.
Cons
- Availability Issues: American Family may have limited availability in some areas of South Carolina, affecting access to gap insurance.
- Higher Initial Costs: Initial costs for AmFam gap insurance might be higher before discounts are applied.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
#7 – The Hartford: Cheapest for Seniors
Pros
- Senior-Friendly Gap Insurance: The Hartford offers gap insurance tailored to the needs of seniors, providing valuable coverage options for this demographic in South Carolina.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Hartford gap insurance includes comprehensive features that are beneficial for seniors in South Carolina.
- Good Reputation: Known for its quality service, The Hartford provides reliable gap insurance options in South Carolina. Read more in our review of The Hartford.
Cons
- Potentially Higher Premiums: Gap insurance from Hartford may come with higher premiums for seniors in South Carolina compared to some other providers.
- Limited Discounts: The Hartford might offer fewer discount options for gap insurance in South Carolina compared to competitors.
#8 – Allstate: Best Customer Service
Pros
- Excellent Customer Service: Allstate is renowned for its top-notch customer service, assisting South Carolinians with their gap insurance needs effectively.
- Multiple Coverage Options: Allstate offers various gap insurance options, allowing South Carolinians to find a plan that suits their needs. See our Allstate review for further information.
- Usage-Based Savings: Safe and low-mileage drivers can save more money on Allstate gap insurance by signing up for Drivewise or Milewise telematics.
Cons
- Higher Premiums: Allstate gap insurance premiums in South Carolina may be higher compared to some competitors.
- Complex Policy Details: The range of coverage options might be complex, requiring a thorough review and understanding of South Carolina gap insurance.
#9 – Farmers: Cheapest Tailored Policies
Pros
- Tailored Gap Insurance: Farmers offers tailored gap insurance policies, providing customized solutions for South Carolinians.
- Wide Range of Options: Farmers’ broad range of coverage options meets the diverse needs of drivers who need South Carolina gap insurance.
- Good Reputation: Farmers has a strong reputation for offering reliable gap insurance solutions in South Carolina. Check out our Farmers review for more information.
Cons
- Complex Policy Details: The variety of tailored options can make understanding gap insurance policies more complex for South Carolinians.
- Potentially Higher Rates: Customized gap insurance policies may have higher rates than more standardized options in South Carolina.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
#10 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Flexible Options
Pros
- Flexible Gap Insurance: Liberty Mutual offers flexible gap insurance options, allowing South Carolinians to adjust coverage as needed.
- Multiple Discounts: Liberty Mutual offers various discounts that can lower the cost of gap insurance in South Carolina. Learn more in our Liberty Mutual review.
- New Car Replacement: South Carolinians can add this coverage to gap insurance, and Liberty Mutual will replace your totaled car with a new similar make and model.
Cons
- Complex Policy Options: The flexibility in options might make choosing the right gap insurance policy more complicated for South Carolinians.
- Customer Service Variability: Customer service experiences with Liberty Mutual may vary, affecting the overall satisfaction with gap insurance in South Carolina.
South Carolina Gap Insurance Monthly Rates
If you’re looking for affordable gap insurance coverage in South Carolina, comparing rates from various providers can help you save money. Below is a list of monthly rates for gap insurance from top companies in the state so you can easily find the best option for your needs.
South Carolina Gap Insurance Rates by Provider
| Insurance Company | Monthly Rates |
|---|---|
| $90 |
| $83 |
| $113 |
| $125 |
| $80 |
| $71 |
 | $78 |
 | $60 |
| $85 |
| $72 |
By reviewing these monthly rates, you can make an informed decision and select the gap insurance provider that fits your budget and coverage requirements in South Carolina. Always consider both price and service when choosing the best option for you.
Read More: Best South Carolina Auto Insurance Companies
Accidents and claims can vary significantly depending on the city. Below is a breakdown of the number of accidents and claims per year across major cities in South Carolina, offering insights into areas with higher incidents.
South Carolina Accidents & Claims per Year by City
| City | Accidents per Year | Claims per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Charleston | $4,200 | 2,900 |
| Columbia | 5,500 | 3,800 |
| Greenville | $3,400 | 2,300 |
| North Charleston | 3,800 | 2,600 |
| Rock Hill | 2,100 | 1,400 |
Knowing the frequency of accidents and claims in different cities helps drivers anticipate insurance costs and choose the right coverage. Below is a breakdown of the top five auto insurance claim types in South Carolina, along with their frequency and average cost, to provide insight into potential risks and expenses.
5 Most Common Auto Insurance Claims in South Carolina
| Claim Type | Portion of Claims | Cost per Claim |
|---|---|---|
| Collision | 35% | $3,600 |
| Comprehensive | 22% | $2,400 |
| Property Damage | 18% | $4,200 |
| Bodily Injury Liability | 15% | $16,000 |
| Personal Injury Protection (PIP) | 10% | $9,000 |
By knowing the common types of claims and their costs, South Carolina drivers can make informed decisions when selecting their insurance coverage, ensuring they’re adequately protected from unforeseen expenses.
How Gap Insurance Works in South Carolina
If your car gets totaled or stolen, regular car insurance only pays what the car is worth at that time (which could be less than what you still owe on your loan or lease). This is where guaranteed auto protection (gap) insurance steps in. It covers the “gap” between what the car is worth and how much you owe.
Many drivers looking for affordable gap insurance in South Carolina found practical ways to minimize their expenses while ensuring adequate coverage
South Carolina auto insurance discounts report card, where we evaluate popular discounts offered by major providers in the state. Use this guide to see how different discounts stack up in terms of savings and participating insurers, helping you make informed decisions to save on your auto insurance.
South Carolina Report Card: Auto Insurance Discounts
| Discount Name | Grade | Savings | Participating Providers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good Driver | A | 25% | State Farm, Geico, Allstate, Progressive |
| Good Student | A | 20% | State Farm, Allstate, Liberty Mutual |
| Multi-Policy | A- | 20% | Liberty Mutual, Nationwide, USAA, Farmers |
| Defensive Driving | B+ | 15% | The Hartford, Geico, Travelers |
| Low Mileage | B | 10% | Nationwide, Progressive, Allstate |
By taking advantage of these discounts, you can significantly lower your auto insurance costs in South Carolina. Compare options from different providers to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible on your policy.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Smart Ways to Lower Gap Insurance Costs in South Carolina
The South Carolina report card on auto insurance premiums offers a comprehensive overview of how the state measures up in key areas related to insurance costs. By examining categories such as average premiums, rates for high-risk drivers, and discount availability, this report provides valuable insights for drivers seeking affordable coverage.
South Carolina Report Card: Auto Insurance Premiums
| Category | Grade | Explanation | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discount Availability | A- | Good for safe drivers, multi-policy holders, and students | Liberty Mutual, Nationwide, USAA, Farmers |
| Customer Satisfaction | B+ | Positive overall, claims handling needs improvement | Nationwide, Progressive, Allstate |
| Average Premiums | B | Moderate rates, slightly above average | State Farm, Geico, Allstate, Progressive |
| Regional Variation | B- | Urban rates higher than rural | The Hartford, Geico, Travelers |
| Premiums for High-Risk Drivers | C+ | Higher premiums for accidents or DUIs | State Farm, Allstate, Liberty Mutual |
High-risk drivers and those in urban areas may face higher costs, but discounts and positive customer satisfaction offer savings opportunities. Drivers can save by comparing policies, bundling, or taking advantage of safe driving rewards.
Explore auto insurance discounts from top providers for gap insurance in South Carolina. Our table highlights discounts available from leading companies, including multi-policy, safe driver, and good student discounts.
Auto Insurance Discounts From the Top Providers for Gap in South Carolina
| Insurance Company | Available Discounts |
|---|---|
| Multi-policy discount, Safe driver discount, Anti-theft discount, Good student discount |
| Multi-vehicle discount, Early bird discount, Safe driver discount, Loyalty discount |
| Multi-policy discount, Good student discount, Safe driver discount, Alternative fuel discount |
| Multi-policy discount, Homeowner discount, Military discount, New car discount |
| Multi-policy discount, Accident-free discount, Defensive driving discount, Good student discount |
| Multi-policy discount, Continuous insurance discount, Snapshot program discount, Good student discount |
| Multi-policy discount, Telematics discount, Homeowner discount, RightTrack discount |
| Multi-policy discount, Safe driver discount, Good student discount, Defensive driving discount |
| Multi-policy discount, AARP member discount, Defensive driving discount, Vehicle safety discount |
| Multi-policy discount, Safe driver discount, Homeowner discount, Early quote discount |
Compare these to other auto insurance discounts to ask for to find the best gap insurance savings for your needs. By staying proactive and informed about the rewards and discounts available to you, you can maximize your savings.
To secure the best rate, compare quotes from multiple providers, utilize available discounts, and consider adjusting your auto insurance deductible. Regularly reviewing your coverage can also help you avoid over-insurance and maintain essential protection.
3 Case Studies: Best Gap Insurance Companies in South Carolina
Real-world experiences highlight why choosing the right gap insurance provider is crucial for financial protection.
- Case Study #1 – State Farm’s Payoff Protector Saved a Family After an Accident: A couple from South Carolina paid for a new SUV, but only six months later, it was completely damaged in a big storm. Due to State Farm’s Payoff Protector service, the loan left of $5,200 was taken care of and they didn’t have to bear debt on their wrecked car.
- Case Study #2 – Progressive’s Online Tools Helped a First-Time Buyer Navigate a Claim: A person who just finished college in Charleston funded a sedan, but it got hit from the back, and their vehicle was told to be damaged. Thanks to Progressive’s digital tools for managing claims, they were able to sort out their gap insurance claims rapidly, which saved them many weeks of financial uncertainty.
- Case Study #3 – Travelers’ Loan/Lease Gap Coverage Benefited a High-Risk Driver: A driver with a prior accident history financed a compact car and needed gap coverage to protect against depreciation. When their car was totaled after another driver ran a red light, Travelers’ Loan/Lease Gap Coverage covered the $4,800 difference between their insurance payout and the remaining loan amount.
Choosing the right gap insurance provider can make a significant financial difference when unexpected accidents occur.
Read more: How long does an accident affect your auto insurance rate?
Best Budget-Friendly Gap Insurance Companies in South Carolina
The most affordable gap insurance options come from State Farm, Progressive, and Travelers, with rates starting at $60 per month. Whether it’s State Farm’s Payoff Protector for financed vehicles, Progressive’s user-friendly digital tools, or Travelers’ Loan/Lease Gap Coverage for high-risk drivers, comparing quotes ensures you secure the best rate.
Gap insurance prevents financial loss if your car is totaled while you still owe on it. For example, a $5,000 loan balance could be fully covered.Justin Wright Licensed Insurance Agent
Understanding how gap insurance works can help prevent financial strain if your car is totaled or stolen, making it a crucial add-on for drivers with loans or leases. Find out how the best auto insurance for seniors can help you save on premiums.
Find your cheapest gap insurance quotes by entering your ZIP code below into our free comparison tool.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Frequently Asked Questions
Does South Carolina require gap insurance?
No, gap insurance is not a mandatory requirement in South Carolina. However, it is recommended for those who owe more on their vehicle than its current market value or have a loan with a high loan-to-value ratio. Find out why the best gap insurance is essential for financed or leased vehicles.
What is the average cost of gap insurance in South Carolina?
The best gap insurance in South Carolina typically ranges from $10 to $22 per month, depending on the provider and coverage options. Rates can vary based on the insurer, your vehicle, and your driving profile.
How does gap insurance work in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, gap insurance covers the difference between the car’s actual cash value (as determined by your primary insurance) and the amount you owe on your car loan or lease if your vehicle is totaled or stolen. It helps protect you from financial loss in such scenarios.
Can I purchase gap insurance separately from my South Carolina auto insurance company?
Yes, you can purchase gap insurance separately from your auto insurance policy by buying it through the dealership where you leased or bought your vehicle. Many insurance companies also offer it as an add-on, while others provide it through third-party providers. Enter your ZIP code to compare your options and find the cheapest Gap insurance in SC.
What is the maximum amount gap insurance will pay in South Carolina?
Gap insurance typically covers the difference between the amount you owe on your car loan or lease and the actual cash value (ACV) of your vehicle at the time of a total loss. The maximum payout is generally the remaining balance on your loan or lease after your primary insurance has covered the vehicle’s value.
What should I consider when choosing gap insurance in South Carolina?
When choosing gap insurance in South Carolina, consider factors such as coverage limits, cost, provider reputation, and any additional benefits or exclusions. Compare quotes from multiple insurers and review policy details to find one that fits your needs.
How often should I review my gap insurance coverage in South Carolina?
It’s a good idea to review your gap insurance coverage annually or whenever you make significant changes to your vehicle or loan terms. This ensures that your coverage remains adequate and that you’re not paying for more than you need.
What are the best ways to find affordable South Carolina auto insurance?
Comparing quotes from multiple providers helps you find affordable South Carolina auto insurance. Bundling policies and maintaining a clean driving record can lower your monthly rates.
Are there any discounts for gap insurance in South Carolina?
Yes, many insurers offer auto insurance discounts for gap insurance in South Carolina. Discounts may be available for bundling policies, maintaining a clean driving record, or having safety features in your vehicle. It’s a good idea to ask your provider about available discounts.
How can you qualify for low-income car insurance in South Carolina?
You can qualify for low-income car insurance in South Carolina by looking for state-sponsored programs, discounts for safe driving, and usage-based insurance plans to reduce monthly costs.
Who offers gap insurance for financed and leased vehicles?
Major insurers like State Farm, Progressive, and Travelers offer gap insurance for financed and leased vehicles. Dealerships and third-party providers also provide coverage options. Secure affordable gap insurance by entering your ZIP code into our instant quote tool.
What factors help you secure cheap South Carolina car insurance?
Maintaining a good credit score, choosing a higher deductible, and qualifying for discounts can help you secure cheap auto insurance in SC with lower monthly premiums.
Is gap insurance available for leased vehicles in South Carolina?
Yes, the best auto insurance for leased vehicles includes gap coverage in South Carolina. In fact, it’s often recommended for leased vehicles because lease agreements typically have higher gaps between the vehicle’s value and the lease balance.
Who offers Direct Auto Insurance in Greenwood, SC?
Direct Auto Insurance in Greenwood, SC is available from national providers like Direct Auto, State Farm, and Progressive. Comparing quotes helps you find the best monthly rates.
Where can you find the best gap insurance deals?
The best gap insurance deals come from top providers like State Farm, Progressive, and Travelers. Comparing policies ensures you get the most coverage at the lowest monthly cost.
What is the minimum car insurance required in South Carolina?
South Carolina minimum auto insurance requirements are 25/50/25 in both liability coverage and uninsured motorist protection.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Brad Larson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Brad Larson has been in the insurance industry for over 16 years. He specializes in helping clients navigate the claims process, with a particular emphasis on coverage analysis. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in Political Science. He also holds an Associate in Claims (AIC) and Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designations, as well as a Utah Property and Casual...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.