How to Switch Car Insurance Companies (2024)

Switching car insurance is easy to do, but be sure your new policy's coverages, limits, and deductibles reflect what you're carrying with your existing insurer. 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.

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How to change your car insurance

If you're interested in switching car insurance companies, you won't have to wait for your current policy to expire. You can change car insurance policies anytime, whether you purchased your policy two days or two months ago. Here are some key tips for switching car insurers:

  1. Compare policies when switching car insurance

    Another insurance company may offer a cheaper rate, but they may not be offering the same amount of coverage you had previously. Comparing coverages, limits, and deductibles is just as crucial as comparing car insurance rates. Trading valuable protection to save a few dollars in the short term may cost you more money down the road.

  2. Find out how your new insurer handles claims

    Affordability is important to all when it comes to car insurance coverages, but your auto insurance company should be judged on how well they handle claims. The price difference may not be worth it if your new insurer isn't available 24/7 or struggles to provide exceptional service during the claims process.

  3. Avoid a gap in coverage

    Even for just a day, you never want to have a lapse in car insurance coverage. If you plan to cancel your current car insurance policy, make sure your new insurance policy is already in effect. Continuous coverage could also help you save with your new insurer. At Progressive, we honor the time you've been with your previous insurance company by awarding you an auto insurance discount.

  4. Cancel your old auto insurance policy

    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. After you purchase a new policy, you should immediately contact your former insurer and cancel your old policy. You'll receive a refund for car insurance for any unused portion of your policy, subject to any cancellation fee your insurer may charge.

Changing car insurance companies? Check us out.

Progressive offers several ways to seamlessly switch your auto insurance:

How to Switch Car Insurance Companies (3)

Call us

Talk to a licensed representative who will guide you through every step of the process.

Call 1-866-749-7436

How to Switch Car Insurance Companies (4)

Ask an agent

Get expert advice from an independent agent near you.

Find an agent online

Looking for more information about auto insurance? Our car insurance resource center has you covered.

How to Switch Car Insurance Companies (5)

Quote car insurance online or give us a call

  • Or, call 1-866-749-7436

Learn more about car insurance policies.

How to Switch Car Insurance Companies (2024)

FAQs

How to Switch Car Insurance Companies? ›

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. After you purchase a new policy, you should immediately contact your former insurer and cancel your old policy.

Do I need to cancel my car insurance before switching? ›

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. After you purchase a new policy, you should immediately contact your former insurer and cancel your old policy.

How do you move from one insurance company to another? ›

To switch car insurance providers, compare car insurance quotes and choose the best option for your current situation. Then, start your new coverage and overlap it by at least one day with your old coverage. Finally, cancel your old plan and let your lender know about your new coverage, if applicable.

How do you tell your insurance agent you are leaving? ›

A simple, "Hey [Broker's name], I've decided to explore other options for my insurance needs." Done. No drama, no tears, just a vague sense of wanderlust for the policy pastures new. If you feel obligated to offer a reason, keep it generic.

Why do customers switch insurance companies? ›

Oftentimes, consumers are motivated to review their policies due to rising costs, insufficient coverage, or unsatisfactory customer service. Some people prefer to migrate to companies where all their needs are met under one roof. On occasion, a policyholder may have lost confidence in their service provider.

What to consider when changing insurance companies? ›

Below are seven things to remember when contemplating a change in insurance companies.
  • Ask about your current rate. ...
  • Be a smart consumer. ...
  • Confirm your potential new coverage. ...
  • Double-check potential extra costs. ...
  • Don't cancel your current policy too soon. ...
  • Don't forget to cancel your old policy. ...
  • Carry your new insurance card.

Does it look bad to switch auto insurance? ›

No, switching car insurance isn't bad and won't lead to penalties or hits to your credit score.

Is it hard to change insurance companies? ›

It's relatively simple to switch providers at any time during your policy term. Bankrate's insurance editorial team, which includes three licensed agents, walks you through the process of switching insurance companies.

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.

Does Geico charge a cancellation fee? ›

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

How do I write a letter of termination for insurance? ›

Your letter should include:
  1. Date of notice.
  2. Insurance company name and address.
  3. Appropriate department name and contact person.
  4. Insured's name (found in the declarations page of the policy)
  5. Insured's mailing address.
  6. Insured's phone number.
  7. Policy number.
  8. Coverage period (on declarations page)
Jul 19, 2022

What is a termination letter for insurance? ›

This letter is to notify you that your state-sponsored benefit plans have ended due to Separation of employment. It is for informational purposes only.

How to break up with an insurance broker? ›

How to break up with your broker. Breaking up is straightforward, and the successor broker does much of the work. Clients initiate the process through a form letter known as a broker of record (BOR) letter. The industry recognizes this as the vehicle for changing brokers.

Is it worth staying with one insurance company? ›

Whether it's personal assets or professional assets, you have a lot to protect. But that doesn't mean you need to use multiple insurers to do it. In fact, having your home, auto and business policies with one company can help you save – time, money and a whole lot of trouble.

Does Allstate charge a cancellation fee? ›

If you've already paid your premium for the policy period in full, Allstate will refund the unused portion. Allstate does not impose a cancellation fee or penalty for early termination. Finally, it's important to remember that you don't need to cancel your policy just because you're going through some life changes.

Is it a good idea to switch home insurance companies? ›

Consider switching if you can significantly lower your premiums through discounts not available with your current provider. Increasing your coverage: Understanding your the replacement value of your home and personal property gives you a better understanding of how much home insurance you need.

When should I cancel my insurance when moving? ›

It's best to let your insurance company know when you plan to relocate. Once you know your moving date and new address, notify your insurer immediately. If you need to move suddenly, that's OK — communicate that as soon as possible so you'll have the right coverage.

How to transfer insurance to another car? ›

Select the reason for changing your car. Select the dates and times you want the temporary cover to start and end. In the Vehicle details section, enter the registration number of the new car then press Find car You will then be asked to confirm we have found the correct vehicle.

How much does it cost to cancel car insurance? ›

Car insurance cancellation fees

If you cancel at renewal: You shouldn't have to pay any fees. This is called 'lapsing' the policy. If you cancel within 14 days of starting a policy: You may have to pay an admin fee.

What happens if I just cancel my car insurance? ›

Generally, insurers will refund you the money for the unused portion of your policy, assuming you paid in advance. However, depending on your state, and when you cancel, your insurer may charge a cancellation fee.

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