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Since everything is getting pricier, you’re probably looking for ways to make room in your budget. Cutting entertainment expenses like eating out is an option, but don’t forget about your car insurance. Why? Because chances are, you can cut that expense with ease. Here are the simple tips that can make it happen that your agent probably doesn’t want you to know.

1. Take a course.

The safer and more responsible driver you are, the less you’ll pay for car insurance. One of the easiest ways to show your auto insurance provider that you’re trusty behind the wheel is to take a defensive driving course.

Ask your agent if making this move will lower your premium. If they say yes, schedule that course. Will it cost you a bit of cash upfront? Sure, but it’ll pay for itself over time, which makes it worth it.

2. Get rid of what you don’t need.

Have you ever sat down to read your auto insurance policy? If not, you should, as it could help you trim the fat so you can see significant savings. Here are some places you can trim to stop paying so much every month:

• Rental car coverage if you never travel.
• Roadside assistance if you can get it cheaper elsewhere.
• Comprehensive or collision coverage if your car is old.

3. Pay upfront.

If you’re fortunate enough to have a bunch of cash sitting around, you could get a discount for paying six months or a year of premiums up front. You’ll need to ask your agent if this is an option.

4. Ditch paper bills.

As silly as it sounds, car insurance discounts exist for customers who choose electronic billing versus a paper format. See if your insurer offers this option.

4. Ask for discounts.

Perhaps the easiest way to get deep discounts on car insurance is to ask for them. Your agent may be hiding discounts to increase his company’s profits. Ask about special discounts, and you could pay less for:

• Being in the military.
• Working for a specific company.
• Being part of a particular organization.

5. Get an alarm if you don’t have one.

Do you have an older car that doesn’t have an alarm? Then you may want to purchase one and have it installed, as it could lead to significant savings on your car insurance bill.

It’s no secret that an alarm can help secure your vehicle, which is why having such a device can reduce your premium. How much of a difference can an alarm installation make? A huge one, as GEICO has offered 25 percent discounts for adding alarms in the past.

6. Check competitors frequently.

The Internet makes it easy to shop for car insurance. If your provider is about to increase your premium and it’s almost time to renew, take some time to shop around for quotes from competitors. By doing this every one or two years, you can avoid overpaying for insurance.