Total Loss Payout Calculator

Tip: use negative numbers for condition reductions.

Formula used

Some insurers apply taxes/fees differently. Adjust inputs to match your settlement letter.

How to use this calculator

1. Enter ACV from your valuation report or adjuster estimate.
2. Add condition changes and eligible add-ons (if documented).
3. Include deductible, tax rate, and any title/registration fees.
4. Enter reimbursements shown on receipts or coverage schedules.
5. Add loan payoff and select gap coverage if it applies.
6. Click Calculate payout to view the breakdown.
7. Use CSV or PDF exports to save and share results.

Settlement components and benchmarks

Total loss settlements usually start with Actual Cash Value (ACV) from market comparables. Condition adjustments commonly range from -5% to +3% of ACV, reflecting mileage, tires, and prior damage. Documented add-ons (new tires, upgraded stereo) are added when receipts exist. If your policy has a stated limit, the calculator caps the vehicle value at that limit to avoid overstating settlement expectations. A 1% change in ACV moves the payout by the same percent before taxes and deductions applied later.

Deductions and salvage choices

After the gross amount is built, deductibles are subtracted. Typical deductibles fall between $250 and $1,000, but commercial or specialty policies may differ. If you keep the salvage, insurers often reduce payout by the salvage value because you retain the remaining asset. Salvage values frequently sit near 10%–25% of ACV, yet high-demand parts can push that higher.

Taxes, fees, and reimbursements

Sales tax and fees can materially change the gross settlement. Many jurisdictions apply tax to the settlement base; common inputs are 0%–10%. Title and registration reimbursements are often fixed, typically $40–$200 combined. Reimbursable items like towing and storage commonly run $100–$600. Rental reimbursement is often $20–$60 per day with 20–30 covered days, depending on coverage limits.

Loan payoff and gap exposure

When a lien exists, settlement funds generally pay the lienholder first up to the payoff balance. If the payoff exceeds the net payout, the difference is a shortfall. Optional gap coverage can reduce that exposure; entered limits of $2,500–$10,000 are common. Use the “gap on/off” comparison to see whether a remaining shortfall persists after the gap payment.

Using exports for review

Exports help you review and communicate numbers. Save the CSV to track scenarios, or generate a PDF for email and printing. Validate the ACV basis against comparable listings, confirm which fees are reimbursable, and match reimbursements to receipts. If the insurer taxes a different base, update the tax rate and rerun so your report reflects a clear, auditable revision trail.

FAQs

1) What is ACV in a total loss settlement?

ACV is the vehicle’s market value just before the loss, based on age, mileage, condition, and comparable sales or listings used by the valuation report.

2) Why does keeping salvage reduce my payout?

If you retain the vehicle, the insurer typically subtracts salvage value because you keep the remaining asset. This is modeled as a salvage retention deduction.

3) Are taxes and registration always included?

Not always. Some settlements include tax and certain fees, while others reimburse them only under specific rules. Enter values that match your settlement letter and local practice.

4) How does the deductible apply in total loss claims?

The deductible is commonly subtracted from the gross settlement to reach net payout. Confirm the exact treatment in your coverage terms and adjust inputs accordingly.

5) What happens when the loan payoff is higher than payout?

The difference becomes a shortfall. The calculator shows the shortfall and can apply optional gap coverage up to the limit you enter.

6) What documents improve estimate accuracy?

Use the valuation report, comparable listings, upgrade receipts, towing and storage invoices, rental statements, and a payoff letter from the lender to support each input.