JW2,

CDW is a very complicated matter, so it is no wonder you feel overwhelmed. Also, it is a constantly changing situation. Currently many people are getting notices that their particular MasterCard will not cover them anymore starting in September of this year. I have phoned mine and been assured that I will still have coverage beyond that date. It seems to be in flux.

If you go through Kemwel on my "Car Rental" page you just book it and you can put the CDW on your MasterCard. I have the booking engine especially set up to assume you will put the CDW on your card.

If you use MasterCard's MasterRental insurance plan and decline the car rental's CDW there is zero deductable. However, they do not cover tires or windshields (nor do most insurance that you buy). You must read the fine print as to what is covered. Some very expensive vehicles are not covered either. There is also a time limit on how long your rental can be. Mostly it is 15 days. I have a business card and it is longer at 31 days.

I hope that clears up some of the confusion. Let me know if I can help in any other way.

Michele