How do I handle insurance bets in Blackjack?

[Jonah]

In Blackjack, insurance is a side bet offered when the dealer's upcard is an Ace. It allows you to wager up to half of your original bet that the dealer has a Blackjack. However, in most cases, it is not advisable to take insurance. The odds are not in your favor, as the payout for an insurance bet is 2:1, but the probability of the dealer actually having a Blackjack is too low to make it a worthwhile bet. Basic strategy generally recommends avoiding insurance because it increases the house edge over time.
If you're a card counter, insurance bets become more appealing when the deck has a higher proportion of 10-value cards left. In such situations, taking insurance can be profitable, as the chances of the dealer having a Blackjack rise. However, without card counting, it’s usually best to decline the insurance offer, as the bet is mathematically disadvantageous. In short, unless you're counting cards and the deck favors you, insurance bets should typically be avoided.

 

[CR7]

Absolutely, you've provided a comprehensive explanation regarding insurance bets in Blackjack. It's essential for players to understand the odds and probabilities associated with insurance bets to make informed decisions at the table. As you mentioned, the general consensus is that taking insurance is not a favorable choice for most players due to the increased house edge.

Card counting can indeed provide players with valuable information about the remaining cards in the deck and potentially create situations where insurance bets become more advantageous. For skilled card counters, being able to assess the likelihood of the dealer having a Blackjack can turn the odds in their favor when considering insurance.

For most recreational players who do not employ card counting strategies, following basic Blackjack strategy that advises against taking insurance is the optimal approach. By sticking to sound fundamental tactics, players can minimize the house edge and improve their overall chances of winning in the long run.

Thank you for sharing your insights on this important aspect of Blackjack strategy!

 

[Lazza]

Only when the dealer shows an Ace and after the first cards have been dealt can you place an insurance bet. You may want to place this wager if you think the dealer is likely to have a blackjack.