Cancelling State Farm Auto Insurance: A Step-By-Step Guide

State Farm allows you to cancel your auto insurance policy at any time, for any reason, but you will need to have a new policy in place before making the switch. You can cancel your State Farm auto insurance policy over the phone, by mail, or in person. To cancel your policy, you will need to provide certain information, including your name, date of birth, and your insurance policy number. If you have prepaid your insurance premiums, you can receive a prorated refund.

Cancelling State Farm auto insurance by phone

Cancelling your State Farm auto insurance by phone is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through it:

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Information

Before making the call, ensure you have the following details ready:

• Your State Farm policy number.
• Your full name.
• Your date of birth.
• If you've sold your vehicle, have the relevant documents ready, such as a bill of sale or proof of plate forfeiture.
• If you're switching to a new insurer, have their name and policy details on hand.

Step 2: Contact State Farm

Get in touch with your local State Farm agent or customer service. You can use the State Farm website to find your local agent's contact information. For auto policy cancellations, you can also call the dedicated line at 800-STATEFARM.

Step 3: Provide Your Information

Once you're connected, provide the customer service representative with the information from Step 1. They will need these details to locate your policy and process the cancellation.

Step 4: Specify the Cancellation Date

You can choose to cancel your policy immediately or schedule it for a future date. If you're switching to a new insurer, you may want to coordinate the start date of your new policy with the cancellation of your State Farm policy to avoid any gaps in coverage.

Step 5: Notify the DMV (If Required)

Depending on your state, you may be required to inform the DMV about the cancellation of your auto insurance. Check with your State Farm agent or refer to your state's guidelines to confirm if this step is necessary.

Important Considerations:

• State Farm does not charge a cancellation fee, and you can cancel your policy at any time.
• If you've prepaid your insurance premiums, you may be eligible for a prorated refund.
• Cancelling by phone can be effective immediately or scheduled for a future date.
• Remember to have a new insurance policy in place before cancelling, as most states require you to maintain continuous coverage.

Cancelling State Farm auto insurance by mail

Cancelling your State Farm auto insurance by mail is a straightforward process, but it requires some planning. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Decide on a Cancellation Date

Choose the date you want your policy to end. State Farm allows you to cancel your policy immediately or at a specified date. It is important to decide on a date ahead of time, as you will need to mail your cancellation request at least two weeks before your intended cancellation date to ensure it is processed on time.

Step 2: Write a Letter with Necessary Information

Write a letter that includes all the necessary information. This should include your name, address, phone number, and State Farm policy number. Be sure to specify the date you want your policy to end. If you are switching to a new insurer, include the name of the new insurance company, the start date of your new policy, and the new policy number.

Step 3: Provide Required Documents

If you have sold your vehicle and are cancelling your auto insurance, you may be required to provide proof of the sale or a bill of sale. This could also include proof that you have forfeited your vehicle's license plate.

Step 4: Sign, Date, and Mail the Letter

Sign and date the letter. Make sure to include your signature on the cancellation request. Mail the letter to the following address:

Corporate Headquarters

State Farm Insurance

One State Farm Plaza

Bloomington, IL 61710

It is recommended that you mail your letter at least two weeks before your intended cancellation date to allow for delivery and processing time.

Additional Considerations:

• Cancelling by mail does not ensure instant cancellation, unlike cancelling by phone.
• State Farm does not charge a cancellation fee, and you can cancel your coverage at any time.
• If you have prepaid your insurance premiums and are cancelling before the end of your policy term, you may be eligible for a prorated refund.
• Many states require you to inform the DMV when you cancel or change your auto insurance. Check your specific state's guidelines or consult with a State Farm agent to see if this is necessary.
• If you are switching to a new insurance provider, they may ask for your new provider's name, policy number, and effective date.

Cancelling State Farm auto insurance in person

Cancelling your State Farm auto insurance in person is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through it:

Step 1: Connect with a Local State Farm Agent

Locate and get in touch with a State Farm agent in your area. You can use State Farm's online tool or website to find the contact details of agents near you.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Information and Documents

Before meeting with the agent, ensure you have the following information ready:

• Your contact details, including your name, address, and phone number.
• Your State Farm policy number.
• The date you want your coverage to end.

If you've sold your vehicle, you'll also need to provide:

A bill of sale or proof that you've turned in your license plate.

Step 3: Visit the Local Office

Once you have all the required information and documents, visit the local State Farm office. It's a good idea to contact your agent beforehand and schedule a time to drop by.

Step 4: Confirm Your Cancellation

During your visit, inform the agent of your intention to cancel your auto insurance policy and provide them with the necessary information and documents. They will process your request, and your cancellation can be effective immediately.

Remember, State Farm does not charge a cancellation fee, and you can cancel your coverage at any time. However, it's essential to have a new insurance policy in place before cancelling, as most states require drivers to have car insurance by law. Additionally, cancelling bundled policies with State Farm may result in losing discounts associated with having multiple policies with the same carrier.

What to do if you've bundled policies with State Farm

If you've bundled policies with State Farm, you can still cancel your auto insurance at any time, but you may lose your bundling discount.

Before you cancel, it's important to have a new auto policy in place, as most states require drivers to be insured. You can cancel your State Farm insurance policy over the phone, by mail, or in person.

To cancel your policy, you'll need to provide the following information:

• Your name, address, and phone number.
• Your State Farm policy number and the date and time you want your policy to end.
• If you're switching providers, your new insurer's name, policy number, and policy start date.
• If you've sold your vehicle, you may be required to provide proof of plate forfeiture or your bill of sale.

If you're cancelling your auto insurance policy with State Farm but wish to keep your other policies, it's a good idea to talk to your agent about your options. They can help you understand the impact of losing your bundling discount and explore other ways to save money on your remaining policies.

How to be smart about switching car insurance

Switching car insurance companies is relatively painless and can save you money, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you're making a smart decision. Here are some tips on how to be smart about switching car insurance:

Know when to switch

Switching car insurance companies can be beneficial in certain situations. For example, if you've had a major life change, such as getting married, moving to a new location, or buying a new vehicle, it might be a good time to consider switching. Additionally, if you're approaching your renewal date, experiencing a spike in your premium, or adding a new driver or car, it might be worth shopping around for a new policy.

Compare your options

When switching car insurance, it's important to compare multiple options to find the best coverage for your needs. Get quotes from at least three different insurers and pay attention to factors such as coverage options, limits, and deductibles. Make sure you're comparing "apples-to-apples" and that the quotes you're receiving are for the same type and level of coverage. You should also research the insurance companies themselves by checking customer reviews, financial strength ratings, and third-party ratings to ensure they are reputable and will provide good customer service.

Consider the timing

It's important to time your switch correctly to avoid a lapse in coverage, which can result in negative consequences such as higher insurance rates or legal trouble. Try to set your new policy to begin on the same day your old policy ends. Most insurers will let you choose your effective date, so you can plan ahead to make sure there is no gap in coverage.

Understand the process

Cancelling your current policy may require providing certain information, such as your policy number, name, and date of birth. There may also be cancellation fees involved, so be sure to check with your current insurer about any potential penalties for switching before your policy term ends. You may also be due a refund if you've prepaid for coverage beyond your cancellation date.

Confirm the switch

Once you've made the switch, confirm that your new policy is in place and that your old policy has been cancelled. Update your insurance ID cards and inform any relevant parties, such as your leasing company or lender, of the change.

By following these steps, you can make sure you're making a smart decision when switching car insurance and avoid any potential pitfalls along the way.

Frequently asked questions