The specific amount the insurer is deducting from your total loss settlement to allow you to keep the vehicle. Typically, this is the salvage value the insurer would have received at auction.
An typically refers to a policyholder purchasing their vehicle back from the insurance company after it has been declared a "total loss." While the specific text of a buy-back agreement is usually standard legal language provided by the insurer, a "solid" communication or agreement text should clearly outline the following key elements to protect your interests: Essential Clauses for a Buy-Back Agreement
A clear statement acknowledging that the vehicle will be issued a salvage or rebuilt title , which significantly impacts its future resale value (often by 30–40%) and your ability to secure full-coverage insurance later.
Some insurers have fixed salvage percentages that are non-negotiable.