How easy is it to switch auto insurance?

Asked by: Dr. Isaias Hansen PhD  |  Last update: July 18, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (22 votes)

Yes. You can change your car insurance company at any time. However, some insurers may impose a cancellation fee for dropping a policy, so check with them beforehand. You'll also want to have a new policy lined up before canceling to avoid a lapse in coverage.

Is switching car insurance easy?

Contrary to popular belief, switching car insurance providers can be easy and the process can be broken down into six helpful steps. This process can help ensure that you're not just swapping one policy for another but instead, that you are obtaining a car insurance policy that best suits your current needs.

Can I switch my auto insurance anytime?

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.

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.

How do I switch to another auto insurance?

How To Switch Car Insurance Companies In 9 Steps
  1. Collect Quotes And Compare Them. ...
  2. Research The Company You Want To Move To. ...
  3. Contact Your Current Insurance Company. ...
  4. Purchase Your New Policy. ...
  5. Cancel Your Old Policy. ...
  6. Ensure Confirmation On Your Policy Cancellation. ...
  7. If You Have A Car Loan Or Lease, Notify Your Lender.

How to Switch Car Insurance : Car Insurance FAQs

43 related questions found

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.

What happens if I change my car insurance company?

Insurance policies are designed to cover incidents that occur during the policy period, even if you switch to a new carrier later. Any accident that happens while your old insurer covers you remains their responsibility, regardless of whether you renew your policy or switch to a new company.

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.

How many days do you have to switch insurance?

Depending on the state, you could have 30 to 90 days to switch your insurance, driver's license, and registration. You could face a fine for failing to make the switch within the deadline.

When should I cancel my old car insurance?

When the sale of your vehicle is complete, you can contact your insurance company and cancel your policy. If you're buying a new vehicle, you can add it to your current policy instead of canceling it.

Does switching car insurance affect credit?

Will switching car insurance affect my credit score? Switching car insurance companies does not directly impact your credit score since insurers do not report your policy changes to the three major credit bureaus.

Does Geico have a cancellation fee?

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

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.

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.

How quickly can you change insurance?

Computer systems need a little time to update, so it's a good idea to arrange the switchover at least the day before you collect the new car. That said, cover can be changed immediately if you buy a new car on the spur of the moment.

Can you change car insurance plans mid year?

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.

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 State Farm cheaper than GEICO?

GEICO is cheaper and has better ratings than State Farm. Your experience with GEICO and State Farm will vary based on individual rating factors.

Is there a cancellation fee for Progressive?

Is there a fee for cancelling Progressive? This varies by state and when you purchased the policy. 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.

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.

What is the disadvantage of changing car insurance?

If you leave your current insurer, you may have to pay a cancellation fee. If you bundled your car and home insurance with one company, you may lose loyalty and multi-policy discounts if you switch. If you don't have another policy in place before switching, you may have a lapse in coverage.

What is the grace period for a new car with Progressive?

With Progressive, you have 30 days to transfer your insurance to your new car. The coverages you have on your previous vehicle will still apply to your new car during that period. Simply log in or call us at 1-800-776-4737 to add the vehicle to your policy.

What do I need to do to switch car insurance?

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.

Do you get a refund if you switch insurance companies?

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.