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.

3 min to read

Explore Progressive Answers' auto editorial guidelines to find out why you can trust the car insurance information you find here.

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:

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.
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.
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.
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.