Can I switch my auto insurance anytime?
Asked by: Barbara Stokes DDS | Last update: December 13, 2025Score: 4.2/5 (14 votes)
Do I need to cancel my car insurance before switching?
When changing car insurance companies, it's typically your responsibility to cancel coverage with your previous insurer. Your new insurance company can provide proof of insurance to your old company if necessary, but they generally aren't authorized to cancel a policy with another insurer on your behalf.
Can you change your car insurance plan at any time?
Yes. You can change car insurance anytime. But it's a good idea to check with your current insurer to see if they charge cancellation fees and to turn off auto-renew, if you have it.
Does switching car insurance affect credit?
However, they may use your credit score as a factor to help determine your premiums. It's important to maintain good credit so you can receive competitive rates but changing insurance providers should not impact your credit score directly.
Is there a penalty for switching insurance?
If at any time and for any reason you want to make a switch to another insurer mid-policy, you typically have the right to cancel your policy. Even if you just started your coverage or have a pending claim, you should be able to cancel your current policy with no penalties.
When and How to Switch Your Insurance Company? | Insurance Explained
Is it a good idea to switch auto insurance?
Switching car insurance providers may seem like an inconvenience, but depending on your situation, it could save you hundreds of dollars per year. It's generally a good idea to shop around for car insurance once a year to ensure you're still getting the best deal.
Is Progressive or Geico better?
When it comes to the provider rankings from the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study, both carriers scored below the industry average — but Geico takes the lead with a score of 692 compared to Progressive's score of 672.
Do I get a refund if I switch car insurance?
Switching insurance companies
If you switch car insurance companies and find better rates with a different insurer, you may want to cancel your existing policy before it expires. In this case, if you switch insurance companies you can get a refund. Depending on your insurer, you may have to pay a cancellation fee.
What happens if you switch car insurance mid policy?
The carrier refunds the unused part of the premium, although some companies may charge a small fee or penalty. Even if you've already decided to switch, you may want to calculate whether it makes more financial sense to wait until a policy term ends before making the change.
Can I switch insurance companies at any time?
You have the flexibility to change car insurance at any time, even mid-policy. Timing the start of your new policy and end of the old one is important for avoiding a gap or overlap in coverage.
Is it too late to change my insurance plan?
Remember – while you can usually cancel your health insurance anytime, you can't usually enroll anytime: only during annual open enrollment or a special enrollment period. Before canceling your health insurance plan, make sure you've thought through what you'll do if you need medical care – and how you'll pay for it.
Does State Farm have a cancellation fee?
You will need to provide certain information, including your name, date of birth, and your insurance policy number to cancel your coverage. Luckily, State Farm doesn't charge a cancellation fee and lets you cancel your policy any time. You can also receive a prorated refund if you have prepaid your insurance premiums.
Does Geico have a cancellation fee?
If you want to cancel your policy, GEICO makes it easy with no cancellation fee*.
How soon can I change my auto insurance?
The short answer is yes:
You can make changes to your coverage any time throughout the year. Simply call your insurance agent. Policy changes usual take effect immediately. Coverage on a new car added during the policy term starts when you take possession.
Does Progressive charge a cancellation fee?
In some states, Progressive will charge a $50 cancelation fee if you cancel within your first term; meaning your policy has not yet renewed. Once the policy has renewed there will no longer be a cancellation fee. To know for sure, check your policy or call us and we can help you determine if there is a fee.
Can I switch my car insurance to another company?
You can switch at any time, but it's not always advantageous. For example, you may want to stick with your current insurer when you have: Accident forgiveness. Accident forgiveness prevents your car insurance company from raising your rates after an at-fault accident.
Does it cost to transfer insurance to another car?
Transferring your auto insurance isn't necessarily fun, but it's just as important. And timing is critical. The transfer itself doesn't cost any extra money, but having a new loan or lease on the vehicle may require an increase in coverage, depending on what you already have.
When should I start my new insurance policy?
When you buy a new car, your existing car insurance will protect your new car temporarily with the same amount of coverage. Get around 7 to 30 days to officially add the car to your policy.
How often should I shop for car insurance?
It's recommended that you shop around for car insurance quotes at least once a year. However, to make sure you're getting the absolute best rates, consider shopping for new quotes every six months — the length of a standard policy. An easy way to remember when to shop is to watch for the end of your current policy.
Does Progressive have a grace period?
Yes, in most cases, you'll have a grace period between missing a payment and your policy officially lapsing.
Can I change my car insurance coverage at any time with Geico?
You have the right to change your coverages and policy limits at any time, even if you are not near your renewal date. If you select lower policy limits or cancel nonmandatory coverages to save money, you have a right to a refund of your unused premium within 60 days.
Will my insurance go up if I switch cars?
Your agent will also compare your current coverage with the coverage you want on your new vehicle. In most cases, newer vehicles will cost a little more to insure than older ones. In addition, a different make and model might cost more to insure.
What is Geico's weakness?
Weaknesses of GEICO
The major drawbacks are as follows: Research and Development: GEICO has a good share of expenditure on the research and development department but it is spending way less than a few of the players within the industry which have benefitted as a result of their innovative products.
Is Geico cheaper than State Farm?
GEICO vs State Farm: Which is Better for You? GEICO is cheaper and has better ratings than State Farm. Your experience with GEICO and State Farm will vary based on individual rating factors.