Looking for a new car insurance policy?
Here’s how to switch car insurance (the easy way)!
Switching car insurance can feel like a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be!
Whether you’re looking to save on car insurance rates, improve your customer service experience, or find better coverage options, taking the time to review your policy and explore other options could make a big difference.
The good news? Switching car insurance is simpler than you might think—and it can lead to savings and better protection for you and your vehicle.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to switch car insurance companies with ease, from comparing quotes and finding discounts to avoiding lapses in insurance coverage. And, if you’d prefer an expert’s help, we’ll show you how working with an independent insurance agent can make the process even easier.
How To Switch Car Insurance
Switching car insurance on your own might sound straightforward, but there are several steps involved if you want to make sure you’re getting the best deal and the right coverage.
Get Quotes
The first step to switching car insurance companies is to gather quotes from as many auto insurance companies as possible.
This means scouring the market to contact major providers and, ideally, some lesser-known ones too, since each may offer different coverage options and pricing.
When you reach out, be prepared to share details about your vehicle, driving history, and current policy information so you get accurate car insurance rates.
Compare Coverage
Once you’ve gathered quotes, the next step is to carefully compare car insurance quotes to see which policies offer the best value.
Not all policies are the same, even if they seem similar at first glance, so you’ll want to pay close attention to the insurance coverage details. Look at your Declarations page to get a clear view of the type of car insurance you currently have, and use it as a reference point for what you’ll need in a new policy.
When comparing, aim to look at “apples to apples” coverage—or even by checking if new policies provide stronger protection than your current one. For example, adding comprehensive insurance could offer more protection against non-collision damages like theft or weather-related events. Also, ask about optional riders or add-ons that might be relevant to your needs.
Purchase New Policy
Once you’ve selected the policy that best fits your coverage options and budget, it’s time to purchase your new car insurance.
It’s a good idea to coordinate the start of your new policy with the end of your old one to avoid any gap in coverage—sometimes even a single day without insurance can be risky. Anything can happen during that lapse, and going without coverage, even briefly, could lead to higher premiums in the future.
After purchasing, you’ll receive proof of insurance and an insurance ID card for your records. Be sure to keep these handy, as you may need them to update your information with your state’s DMV or, if applicable, your lender.
Taking these steps to update your insurance ensures you’re fully protected and compliant with any insurance requirements.
Cancel Your Current Policy
If your current policy is close to its renewal date, you can simply opt not to renew it. However, if you’re canceling mid-policy, be sure to check with your provider for any potential cancellation fees.
When you call to cancel, it’s a good time to review any remaining insurance coverage details and confirm the exact cancellation date. This ensures you won’t be billed beyond the termination date, and it can help prevent any surprises on your final statement.
If you’ve found that customer service or car insurance rates were an issue with your previous provider, make a note of this for the future to ensure you’re working with an insurer that better suits your needs going forward.
…Or Do It The Easy Way!
Switching car insurance on your own can be a time-consuming process. If you’d rather have an expert handle the legwork, working with an independent insurance agent can make things easier and more efficient.
An agent not only saves you time but also brings industry insights to help you find the best rates and coverage. Here’s how an independent agent can streamline the process of switching car insurance, all while ensuring you get the protection you need.
Gather Quotes
When you work with an independent insurance agent, you gain access to a wider range of auto insurance companies—including some that only offer policies through agents.
Instead of spending hours gathering quotes yourself, your agent can quickly pull rates from multiple insurers, saving you time while ensuring you’re seeing the full scope of available options.
This expanded access means more choices and a better chance of finding coverage that fits your needs and budget.
Compare Rates
One of the biggest advantages of working with an independent agent is their expertise in comparing rates and types of car insurance to find the best match for your situation.
Independent agents know the ins and outs of various policies and can guide you toward coverage that offers the best value—not just the lowest price. If one policy is slightly more expensive but provides better protection, your agent can explain why it might be a better choice for you.
Agents are also well-versed in available car insurance discounts and can identify savings opportunities you might miss on your own, like bundling discounts, safe driver incentives, or low-mileage discounts. With their insights, you can secure the right balance of protection and savings.
Update Your Insurance
When working with an independent agent, updating your car insurance becomes a seamless experience. Your agent will handle the entire transition for you, from comparing rates and selecting the right coverage options to purchasing your new policy and canceling the old one. They’ll ensure there’s no lapse in coverage, and they’ll coordinate the cancellation date, so you won’t have to worry about any of the fine details.
Plus, with their knowledge of insurance options, discounts, and specific needs, they can tailor your new policy to fit your lifestyle and budget. By letting an expert take care of the paperwork and coordination, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re fully protected.
When To Switch Car Insurance
Deciding to switch car insurance companies can be driven by a variety of factors, such as rising car insurance rates, limited customer service, or changes in your coverage needs. Maybe you’ve found a better deal, or perhaps you’re relocating to a new state, like Florida, where your current insurance company doesn’t operate.
No matter the reason, switching policies can often lead to better protection and savings if timed correctly.
The best time to switch is usually during your policy’s renewal period. Renewing at this time minimizes the chances of cancellation fees and makes the transition simpler. However, if switching mid-policy could lead to significant savings or improved coverage, it may still be a good idea to consider it.
Evaluating your insurance needs regularly can also help ensure you’re always getting the best coverage for your situation. For example, a change in your credit score could impact your premiums, and if you have a loan or lease, your lender may require certain coverages that can vary from policy to policy.
Checking in on your insurance needs periodically ensures you’re protected in a way that aligns with your budget and life circumstances.
Ready To Switch? HLI Can Help
Switching car insurance doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you have an experienced team on your side.
At Harry Levine Insurance, we’ve spent the past 40 years helping customers find the best coverage at the best rates, working only with highly reputable insurance companies known for top-notch coverage and customer service.
Whether you’re looking to save money, improve your coverage, or get help navigating the switch, HLI can simplify the process every step of the way.
If you’re ready to explore your options, contact us today. We’ll provide you with competitive quotes, guide you through policy comparisons, and make sure your switch is seamless and stress-free. Let us help you find the car insurance that fits your needs—and keeps you confidently covered.
