WHY CHOOSE EASTERN INSURING AGENCY?

What Is Actual Cash Value (ACV)?

Actual Cash Value (ACV) is the value of damaged or stolen property after depreciation has been deducted for age and wear.

Get a Smarter Quote →
Phone
Talk with an Advisor
Review My Policy

Definition

Actual Cash Value (ACV) is the value of damaged, destroyed, or stolen property at the time of a covered loss after depreciation has been deducted for age, condition, and normal wear and tear.

In simple terms, ACV equals what your property was worth immediately before the loss—not what it costs to replace it with a brand-new item.

Why It Matters

Why It Matters

While ACV policies often have lower premiums, they generally pay less after a claim because depreciation is deducted before payment is issued.

Knowing the difference between ACV and Replacement Cost can help you choose the right coverage and avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

Example

Roof Damage Example

Homeowners Insurance

Replacement Cost

$20,000

Depreciated Value (ACV)

$11,500

Deductible

$1,000

=

Insurance Payment

$10,500

Where You'll See This

Homeowners Insurance
Homeowners Insurance
Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Condo Insurance
Condo Insurance
Commercial Property Insurance
Commercial Property Insurance
Personal Property Coverage
Personal Property Coverage

Related Terms

Replacement Cost
Depreciation
Deductible
Covered Property
Defense Cost Coverage

Need Help Understanding Your Coverage?

Our licensed advisors are here to help you review your policy and make sure you have the right protection.

Get a Smarter Quote →
Phone
Talk with an Advisor

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Actual Cash Value include depreciation?
Down Arrow

Yes. Actual Cash Value (ACV) pays the item's current value after depreciation for age, wear, and condition.

Is ACV the same as Replacement Cost?
Down Arrow

No. ACV subtracts depreciation, while Replacement Cost pays to replace the item with a similar new one without deducting depreciation.

Can I change my policy to Replacement Cost coverage?
Down Arrow

In many cases, yes. Contact your insurance agent to see if your policy is eligible and to review any additional premium.

Site Logo
An independent insurance agency providing personal, commercial, and life insurance solutions across New York.
phone

1-800-698-1222  
Call or Text

Quick Links

Get a Smarter QuoteClient Service CenterPersonal InsuranceBusiness InsuranceResourcesContact Us

Resources

CarriersCommunity InvolvementPrivacy PolicyTerms of UseAccessibility

Our Locations

Map

Amsterdam

2 Guy Park Avenue
Amsterdam, NY 12010
Map

Carmel

72 Gleneida Avenue
Carmel, NY 10510
Map

Malone

7 Rockland Street, Suite A
Malone, NY 12953
Map

Plattsburgh

1645 Military Turnpike Hwy
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Email

Stay Informed

Helpful insurance tips, agency updates and more -straight to your inbox.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Eastern Insuring Agency is licensed to provide insurance services in New York State. There is no guarantee insurance will be obtained, and any omissions or misstatements in the process of obtaining coverage can result in a declination of coverage
Trusted Choice independent insurance agent logo with a stylized bird and text.Big I Insurance Agents logo with stylized letter I in a circle.NYIA New York Independent Agents logo with flame icon.
© 2026 Eastern Insuring Agency. All rights reserved.