Blackjack basics
Should I take insurance in blackjack?
No. Decline insurance every time it is offered.
These answers are for a 6 deck game where the dealer stands on soft 17, blackjack pays 3 to 2, and you can double on any two cards, including after a split.
Why
Insurance is offered when the dealer shows an Ace. It is a side bet of up to half your bet that the dealer has blackjack, and it pays 2 to 1 if so.
Fewer than one hand in three has a 10 under that Ace, so a bet that pays 2 to 1 on it loses money over time. It does not protect your hand; it is a separate bet on the dealer.
The play against every dealer card
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| When is it offered? | When the dealer shows an Ace |
| What does it cost? | Up to half your bet |
| What does it pay? | 2 to 1 if the dealer has blackjack |
| Should you take it? | No, never |
Questions players ask
- Is insurance ever worth it?
- Not with basic strategy. Decline it every time.
- Does insurance protect my hand?
- No. It is a separate side bet on whether the dealer has blackjack.
Related answers
- Should I take even money on blackjack?
- Common blackjack mistakes beginners make
- Blackjack basic strategy chart
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