Smart Ways to Protect Upcoming February Purchases

Christian Huth | Jan 28 2026 16:00

Prepare Now for February’s Biggest Purchases

February may be just around the corner, but for many people it’s one of the biggest months of the year for meaningful and high-value purchases. From Valentine’s Day jewelry and sentimental gifts to artwork, collectibles, and major Presidents’ Day car sales, these items often carry both emotional significance and financial value.

January is the perfect time to prepare— before you buy, gift, or bring home something special.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding the perfect gift or taking advantage of seasonal deals. But ensuring these purchases are properly insured from day one can make all the difference. This guide walks through what to consider before February arrives, helping you protect what matters most with confidence.

Why It’s Smart to Think About Insurance Before You Buy

Waiting until after you’ve purchased a valuable item to review your insurance can create a protection gap—sometimes right when the risk is highest. High-value items can be lost, damaged, or stolen before they’re even gifted or used.

Preparing ahead allows your insurance coverage to reflect the true value of your purchase immediately, especially if you’re planning to buy:

  • A Valentine’s Day ring, necklace, or luxury watch

  • Artwork or décor for your home

  • A collectible or heirloom-quality item

  • A new or used vehicle during Presidents’ Day sales

A little planning now can save you from unexpected stress later.

Jewelry, Art, and Collectibles: Why Standard Coverage May Not Be Enough

Many homeowners assume their insurance automatically covers valuables at full value—but most policies include strict limits for items like jewelry, fine art, and collectibles.

That means an engagement ring, rare watch, or original artwork may only be partially covered—or not covered at all for certain losses.

To fully protect these items, many policies require scheduled personal property coverage(also called an endorsement). Scheduling an item ensures it’s insured for its full appraised value and may include broader protection, such as coverage for accidental damage or mysterious disappearance.

Important reminders for February gift-givers:

  • Insurance coverage does not automatically transfer when a gift is given—the new owner must add it to their own policy

  • Some valuables are better protected under standalone personal articles policies

  • Keep receipts, appraisals, serial numbers, and photos—these are essential for coverage and claims

Valentine’s Day gifts often hold deep sentimental value. Making sure they’re properly insured protects both the memory and the investment.

Buying a Car This Presidents’ Day? Understand Your Grace Period

Presidents’ Day sales make February one of the busiest times of year for vehicle purchases. Most insurance companies offer a temporary automatic coverage extension for newly purchased vehicles—but only under specific conditions.

Typically, this grace period lasts 7 to 30 days and extends the broadest coverage you already carry on an insured vehicle. However, this protection is temporary and not guaranteed in every situation.

What to know before driving off the lot:

  • If you don’t already have auto insurance, coverage must be in place before you take delivery

  • Grace periods usually apply only if you already have an active policy

  • If your current vehicle has liability-only coverage, your new vehicle may also be liability-only

  • Financed or leased vehicles typically require collision, comprehensive, and sometimes gap coverage

Notifying your insurance agent promptly ensures your new vehicle is properly listed and fully protected.

Recordkeeping: The Small Step That Makes a Big Difference

No matter what you’re purchasing—jewelry, collectibles, or a vehicle— good documentation plays a critical role in protecting your investment.

Simple habits can make claims smoother and faster if the unexpected happens:

  • Store digital copies of receipts, appraisals, and photos in a secure cloud folder

  • Take clear photos, including close-ups of identifying details

  • Review your insurance annually and after major purchases

  • Ask whether new items qualify you for bundling or policy discounts

Being organized today can save time, frustration, and money down the road.

Haven’t Updated Your Insurance Yet? You’re Not Alone

It’s incredibly common for people to purchase something meaningful and forget to update their insurance. Whether the purchase happened last week or last year, it’s never too late to review your coverage.

A quick conversation with your agent can help determine:

  • Whether an item should be scheduled

  • If coverage limits need adjustment

  • Whether bundling home and auto policies could reduce costs

Final Thoughts: Set Yourself Up for a Worry-Free February

February often brings some of the year’s most meaningful purchases—from sparkling jewelry to new vehicles and cherished collectibles. Taking a proactive approach in January ensures those items are protected from the moment they’re yours.

If you have February purchases planned—or recently bought something that deserves extra protection—now is the ideal time to review your coverage. With a few thoughtful steps, you can enjoy your new purchases fully, knowing they’re safeguarded against the unexpected.