Do I have to cancel my car insurance if I switch?

Asked by: Mrs. Lizzie Littel  |  Last update: December 24, 2025
Score: 4.7/5 (61 votes)

Car owners may switch providers if they're moving, buying a new car, or want to pay less for their policy. When switching car insurance, cancel your old policy on the day your new policy starts to avoid a coverage gap.

When should I cancel my car insurance after switching?

Wait until your new insurance is in place, example effective on Nov 1. Then call and cancel the old policy effective same date. But you don't have to wait until your renewal date to cancel. You can cancel your current policy midterm, just be certain the new policy is issued and in place already before canceling.

Do I have to notify my insurance company if I switch?

It's your responsibility to notify your existing car insurance company that you plan to make a change. If you're canceling your policy early, you might need to pay an early cancelation fee subject to your policy's terms and conditions.

What happens if I switch auto insurance?

While your rate could be lower when quoting a new auto insurance company, their protection and claims fulfillment may not match your current insurer's standards. If you decide to change car insurance companies, make certain there's no gap in your coverage and remember to cancel your previous policy.

Can you get a refund on car insurance if you switch?

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.

Insurance Companies to AVOID!

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Is there a penalty for cancelling car insurance?

At the same time, you might also be subject to a cancellation fee. Many companies don't charge such penalties, but with those that do, you can expect to pay a flat fee of under $100 or around 10% to 15% of the remaining policy premium.

Can I switch car insurance in the middle of a policy?

Yes! Most car insurance policies have 6 or 12-month terms. 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.

Can I cancel my car insurance if I am not using it?

Depending on your state's rules and insurer, you may be able to pause your car insurance if you won't be driving for an extended period. If putting a pause on your car insurance isn't possible, you can reduce your coverages or cancel your policy for the time you don't need it.

Does it cost money to switch insurance from one car to another?

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.

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.

What happens if I don't tell my car insurance that I moved?

Why Does It Matter If I Forget To Tell My Auto Insurance Company That I Moved? The short answer: Because they can refuse to cover you if you are in a car wreck and failed to change your address.

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 charge a cancellation fee?

If you want to cancel your policy, GEICO makes it easy with no cancellation fee*.

Should I cancel my old car insurance before getting a new one?

Purchase new coverage, if you will be driving again.

This should be done before you cancel the old policy, to avoid a lapse in coverage.

Can I reinstate my car insurance after cancellation?

If your car insurance was canceled because you didn't pay your premiums, you may be able to reinstate it. Many insurance companies offer a grace period after you've failed to make a payment. During the grace period, your car insurance can be reinstated once you pay the missed premiums and any fines, interest or fees.

When should I cancel my insurance when moving?

Once you've secured a new policy in your new state, it's time to cancel your old insurance. Just make sure your new coverage kicks in before you cancel the previous policy to avoid any gaps in protection. Notify your old insurance provider of your move and request a cancellation.

When to cancel auto insurance when switching?

Car owners may switch providers if they're moving, buying a new car, or want to pay less for their policy. When switching car insurance, cancel your old policy on the day your new policy starts to avoid a coverage gap.

How do I change my insurance when I get a new car?

To drive your new car off the lot, the dealership may require you to show proof of insurance. If you already have an active auto insurance policy, you can just call your agent or insurance company to have them add it to your policy.

Are there penalties for switching car insurance?

By giving proper notice, you'll generally be able to switch carriers in the middle of a coverage period. The carrier refunds the unused part of the premium, although some companies may charge a small fee or penalty.

Do I have to keep insurance on a car I don't drive?

Even if you're temporarily not driving your car, the lender may insist that you carry a minimum amount of comprehensive and collision coverage, along with the minimum amount of state-required liability insurance.

Can I remove my son from my car insurance when he goes to college Progressive?

You can remove a listed driver from your car insurance policy if they no longer live with you and no longer drive your vehicle. If you have a child away at college or who moves out temporarily, it's a good idea to keep them on your policy. Doing so ensures that they can drive your vehicle during breaks.

Does it hurt to cancel car insurance?

Canceling your policy too soon means you may face legal repercussions, like hefty fines or having your license suspended. When you cancel, you'll have a lapse in coverage. This isn't a problem if you won't be driving.

Do you get a refund if you switch car insurance?

If you've paid for car insurance coverage that you don't plan on using, there's some good news: You may be eligible for a refund. Moving or canceling your policy after selling your car may give you this option. You may also qualify for a refund if you've decided to switch insurance companies.

Does Progressive have a cancellation fee?

Progressive cancellation fees and refund policies can vary depending on several factors, including the type of policy and the state in which you reside. If you decide to cancel your Progressive Insurance policy within the first term before it renews, a cancellation fee of $50 will be charged.

How do I switch from one car insurance to another?

Switch your car insurance in 8 easy steps
  1. Consider your coverage options. ...
  2. Check for potential penalties. ...
  3. Compare car insurance quotes from multiple carriers. ...
  4. Contact your current carrier. ...
  5. Research the new company. ...
  6. Avoid a lapse in coverage. ...
  7. Make sure your old policy is canceled. ...
  8. Access your new car insurance ID cards.