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How to Switch Car Insurance Companies

Whether you’re craving better customer service, aiming to consolidate your insurance policies or seeking a lower premium, switching your auto insurance carrier doesn’t have to be a hassle. You don’t even have to wait until policy renewal to make a change.

Is it hard to switch car insurance companies?

Taking a leap and changing car insurance companies can seem like a scary task. You may be wondering, “How do I know if I’m getting the same coverages? Is the company I’m switching to reliable and reputable? How do I make sure I don’t have any gaps in coverage?” These are all valid questions you can ask yourself when deciding to switch car insurance companies. However, it shouldn’t be hard to switch. Your new carrier should make it as easy as possible, and your prior carrier should do the same. Here are a few things to consider if you’re wondering how to switch car insurance companies:

  • Quote apples-to-apples. When you get quoted, make sure you’re getting quoted with the same coverages you currently have. Even if you plan on adjusting your coverages, having the initial quote match your current coverages can help you get the best idea on how the new carrier’s premium compares to the current carrier.
  • Research reputation. When you look for a new car insurance company, be sure to check how companies are rated on sites such as J.D. Power, Trustpilot and Consumer Reports.
  • Solidify your new policy first. Before you cancel your existing policy, make sure your new policy is ready to go. This will help avoid any gaps in coverage. For example, if your new policy is scheduled to start May 1, 12:01 a.m., you can request that your existing policy be canceled effective May 1, 12:01 a.m.

Can you switch car insurance at any time?

Typically there aren’t rules around when you can and cannot switch car insurance companies. However, there are a few things to consider before you make the switch.

  • Do you have an open claim? It’s not to say you can’t leave your insurance company when you have an open claim, but the details of the claim may play a role. For example, if the date of loss is uncertain, it may be best to wait for this to be finalized before switching carriers.
  •  Have you recently switched carriers? Oftentimes, insurance companies will offer a discounted rate to those who’ve been with their carrier for a certain period of time. If you frequently switch companies, you may be losing these savings.

If you’re wondering if you can switch car insurance companies if you have a loan on your vehicle, the answer is yes. Switching carriers shouldn’t impact your loan; however, you should make sure you continue to carry any required coverages or deductibles. You should also be sure to have your lienholder listed on the policy in order for them to receive notice that you got a new policy and are still insured. 

How often should I shop for a new car insurance policy?

As previously mentioned, if you change insurance carriers frequently, you could be missing out on savings due to not qualifying for loyalty discounts. Shopping for insurance is also a personal situation. Different people may look for different qualities in their carrier, so there’s no specific time period in which you should shop for a new car insurance policy. If you’re happy with your current carrier, then there shouldn’t be a need to shop. 

Steps to switch car insurance companies

Changing car insurance shouldn’t be a long process. It can easily be broken down into three steps that can lead you to successfully switch car insurance companies. 

Step 1: Get a quote

Like Amica, many carriers offer online quoting options. This is a great place to start with your quoting process. Amica prides itself in making sure you have the coverage that meets all your needs. To do so, it can be best to speak with a representative in order to make sure you’re covered from all angles. That way, we can thoroughly answer any questions you may have, and make sure you’re confident in your decision.

Step 2: Sign the application

Once you work with a representative to define your coverage needs and are offered a policy that’s right for you, your coverage can be finalized. All that’s left is to sign the application, perhaps make a down payment and cancel with your current carrier.

It’s easy. An application is issued electronically to you and can be quickly filled out. It’s best to complete the application at your earliest convenience to make sure all coverages are accurately reflected.

Step 3: Let your current carrier know

Once you’ve completed the application process and your new policy is confirmed, you should let your current insurance carrier know you’re changing providers. This is as simple as calling and letting them know the date your new coverage goes into effect to avoid any gaps.

At this point, you’ll also want to let them know where to return remaining premium, if you’re owed any.

Your auto insurance needs may change over time, whether you’re purchasing a new car, getting married or your child starts driving. Amica will tailor your coverage to your needs and help find every possible discount.1 Coverage from Amica comes with peace of mind knowing help is just a phone call away. You also can feel secure as our financial strength is rated A+ (Superior) by AM Best.2

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or call 833-513-3881

1 Discounts may not be available in all states.
2 AM Best Company. Feb. 8, 2023. 
 

Your Policy, Policy Declarations or Amended Declarations in effect on the date of loss is the primary source of reference for your coverage, coverage limits and deductible amounts.

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