Is there a penalty for switching insurance?

Asked by: Zita Halvorson  |  Last update: January 11, 2026
Score: 4.8/5 (35 votes)

If you switch at the end of your policy term, there is unlikely to be a penalty, but some carriers may include one if you decide to switch in the middle of your coverage period.

Do you get penalized for switching car insurance?

There are no penalties, but you will most likely see reduced benefits by not maintaining your same insurance company. As an example:

Is there a fee for changing insurance?

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.

Does switching insurance hurt your credit?

Generally speaking, switching car insurance companies won't affect your credit score.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

Does Geico have a cancellation fee?

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

Does your car insurance go up if you have bad credit?

Most U.S. insurance companies use credit-based insurance scores along with your driving history, claims history and many other factors to establish eligibility for payment plans and to help determine insurance rates. Again, except in California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts.

Is it free to switch 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.

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.

What happens if I want to change car insurance?

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 insurance companies?

Your previous car insurance company is responsible for handling the claim if an accident happened before you switched companies. Even though you waited until after you switched insurers to make a claim, the insurance company you had a legal contract with at the time of the accident is still responsible for paying.

Can you switch insurance in the middle of a policy?

If you're considering making the switch because you found a cheaper home insurance policy, you may want to speak to your current provider before finalizing any changes. While you can switch homeowners insurance at any time, it may be more cost-effective to wait until the policy renewal date before changing companies.

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.

Do I get penalized for cancelling car insurance?

Car insurance cancellation fees

Depending on the auto insurance company, canceling your policy before the end of its term may result in a cancellation fee. State laws can determine if a fee is allowable. If so, it is up to the insurer to set that fee, which is often taken out of the prorated refund.

What happens if I cancel my GEICO policy early?

Yes, you can cancel your GEICO car insurance at any time. However, it's important to note that if you cancel your policy before the end of the policy term, you may be subject to a cancellation fee.

Do you get charged to cancel car insurance?

Car insurance policies tend to last 12 months as standard. So, if you're looking to cancel before your policy ends, it may require you to pay a cancellation fee. Your policy terms and conditions should state if you'll be charged for leaving your policy early, and what these costs will be.

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.

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.

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.

Does State Farm charge a cancellation fee?

State Farm's cancellation policy

State Farm doesn't charge a cancellation fee; you can cancel your coverage anytime. You can also receive a prorated refund if you have prepaid your insurance premiums.