How Does Insurance Work in Blackjack? The Basics Explained

How does insurance work in blackjack? This is a common rule that many people aren't too familiar with. Luckily, this guide has you covered.

Have you ever wondered how does insurance work in blackjack?

Blackjack has been around since the 16th century, and it’s been a firm favorite for years. Many people playing blackjack enjoy the strategy element of the game and enjoy trying to beat the dealer. However, many are unsure how the game works, especially with insurance being a part of it.

If you’ve never been sure about the specifics of insurance, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn all about how insurance works and how it is a part of classic blackjack games.

Offering Insurance

In the world of blackjack, the best online casino will offer their players the option of insurance, which is a side bet available when the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace.

When the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace,  the dealer will pause the game and offer players the option to take insurance. The dealer will then ask players if they wish to place an insurance bet before revealing their hole card (the face-down card). Players are given the chance to place an insurance bet before any additional actions, like hitting or standing, are taken.

Insurance Bet

An insurance bet is typically half the amount of the player’s original bet. For example, if a player initially bet $20 on their hand, they would have the option to place a $10 insurance bet.

It’s important to note that the specific amount of the insurance bet can vary depending on the rules of the blackjack game and the casino. Some casinos might have slightly different rules regarding the insurance bet amount, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with blackjack rules.

Outcome Scenarios

If the dealer does not have a blackjack (a 10-point card as their hole card), the insurance bet is lost. However, the main bet is still in play, and the game continues as usual.

If the dealer does have a blackjack, the player who took insurance wins the insurance bet at a payout rate of 2:1. This means that if a player placed a $10 insurance bet, they would receive $20 in winnings.

Additionally, the player’s original bet is lost unless they also have a blackjack, in which case it’s a push (a tie), and they get their original bet back.

Effect on Player’s Overall Outcome

If the dealer doesn’t have a blackjack and the player took insurance, the player loses the insurance bet but continues playing the hand with their original bet. Depending on the outcome of the hand, they can either win, lose, or push (tie).

If the dealer does have a blackjack and the player took insurance, the player wins the insurance bet but loses their original bet unless they also have a blackjack. In case of a blackjack push, the player gets their original bet back, and the insurance bet is also a push (no win or loss).

Learn the Basics of How Does Insurance Work in Blackjack

Having a basic knowledge of how does insurance work in blackjack will come in handy at the table. From when to take insurance to how it works in certain gaming scenarios – understanding the basics can provide a strategic edge and increase the odds of winning. For a closer look into how insurance works, give blackjack insurance a try at your local casino.

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