Canceling renters insurance takes a phone call or online request and wraps up in 24 to 48 hours. Get replacement coverage first to avoid gaps in protection. You'll get a prorated refund for any unused premium.
How to Cancel a Renters Insurance Policy
Updated: December 29, 2025
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Key Takeaways
Contact your insurer directly to cancel your policy. Most insurers can process your request within 24 to 48 hours.
Avoid canceling your current policy until you've secured replacement coverage, as gaps in protection leave you personally liable for damages or losses.
Review your lease agreement before canceling, dropping coverage that your landlord requires could put you in violation of your rental contract.
You'll receive a prorated refund for unused premium, typically within seven to 21 business days after cancellation.
How to Cancel Renters Insurance: Step-by-Step Process
- 1Gather Your Policy Information
Before calling your insurer, grab your policy number from your declarations page or insurance card. You'll also need your coverage limits, deductible amounts, desired cancellation date (give at least one day's notice), and payment details like autopay or monthly billing.
- 2Contact Your Insurance Company
You can cancel by phone, through your insurer's online portal or with written notice, depending on what your company requires.
- Call your insurer directly: Call during business hours (usually 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in your time zone). Ask for the cancellation department. Give them your policy number and cancellation date, then write down your confirmation number. You'll need this to prove you started the cancellation.
- Cancel online: Log into your account and find "Cancel Policy" or "Make Policy Changes" in the menu. Follow the prompts and screenshot your confirmation page. Not all insurers let you cancel online, so you might need to call instead.
- Send written notice: Some companies want written requests. Email your agent or customer service with your policy number, cancellation date and digital signature. Ask for email confirmation so you have proof.
- 3Request Confirmation of Your Cancellation
A phone call alone isn't enough protection. Get written confirmation with your policy number, coverage end date and time, refund amount and coverage dates. Save these documents for future insurance applications and billing disputes. Most insurers send confirmation within 24 to 48 hours.
- 4Discuss Your Situation And Reasons for Cancellation
Be ready to explain why you're canceling. Your insurer might offer alternatives to terminating your policy. Weigh these options against canceling before deciding. Ask about refunds when you drop coverage.
- 5Stop Automatic Payments
After you get cancellation confirmation, contact billing to turn off autopay. Remove your saved payment method from the website to prevent accidental charges. Check next month's statement to make sure no charges went through after your cancellation date. Keep autopay on until your refund arrives (this avoids confusion about final payments), then turn it off once the refund hits your account.
- 6Follow Up on Your Refund
Refunds typically arrive within seven to 21 business days, depending on your insurer and payment method. Timing varies because insurers use different processing systems. Call customer service with your confirmation number if your refund doesn't show up when expected.
Ask about refund status and timing. Request a supervisor if the refund's overdue past the date they promised.
What to Consider Before You Cancel Your Renters Insurance
Assess your circumstances first. End your policy if you no longer rent the property, moved somewhere else or found different insurance.
If you're ending your policy because
If you're considering canceling due to expensive premiums, consider comparing renters insurance quotes from different insurance providers. This allows you to find cheap renters insurance options that suit your needs. Alternatively, you can request to adjust your coverage limits from your existing insurance provider to lower your rates.
If you're canceling since you're moving
Moving doesn't necessarily mean you have to cancel your existing renters insurance policy. Many insurance companies offer the option to transfer your policy to your new address. This lets you keep your existing coverage. However, if your current insurance provider doesn't offer coverage at your new address, be sure to purchase a new renters insurance policy before your old one expires.
If you're canceling because you got a roommate
Having a roommate doesn't mean you should cancel your renters insurance policy. You can explore the option of adding your roommate to your existing policy and sharing renters insurance. This can be advantageous since you both will have the protection you need.
If you're canceling as a result of getting home insurance
If you're in the process of purchasing a home and plan to cancel your renters insurance, time your new policy so that there are no gaps in coverage during the transition. Keep your renters insurance until your new home insurance policy is fully in effect.
If you're canceling after fulfilling a necessary coverage requirement
Terminating your policy because you only needed it as a requirement for a lease could lead to non-compliance with your agreement. This could potentially result in the termination of your lease. You'll expose yourself to financial risks by not having renters insurance coverage.
If your reason for ending your policy is your insurer
In cases where you're dissatisfied with your insurer's service or have encountered issues, you can cancel your policy and switch to a different insurer. Make sure to find a suitable provider and purchase a policy before canceling to avoid gaps in coverage.
Canceling might seem like an easy way to cut expenses, but it can backfire fast. Before you make the call, think through your specific situation, why you're canceling, what you're risking and whether there's a better option. The right move depends entirely on your circumstances.
- 1Review Your Lease Agreement
Your lease probably requires renters insurance (check the fine print). Canceling without landlord approval breaks your lease and could lead to eviction.
Look for these details:
- Required insurance clause (usually under "tenant obligations")
- Minimum liability coverage amount (most landlords want $100,000)
- Notice requirements for coverage changes
Switching insurers? Give your landlord a certificate from your new provider first, then cancel the old policy. This keeps you in compliance and avoids coverage gaps that risk your lease.
- 2Secure Replacement Coverage First
Don't cancel until your new policy starts. Even one day without coverage leaves you paying for theft, fire damage or liability claims out of pocket (these can easily hit tens of thousands of dollars).
Here's the right timing:
- Buy your new policy with a start date matching when your old one ends
- Example: Current policy ends June 15 → new policy starts June 15
- Get written confirmation of both dates to avoid confusion
Compare renters insurance rates before canceling to find better coverage for less money.
- 3Understand Your Refund
If you paid your premium upfront, you'll get a prorated refund for unused coverage. Your refund equals your total premium divided by 365 days, multiplied by unused days left on your policy. Most insurers process refunds in seven to 21 business days, though some take up to 30 days.
Some insurers charge cancellation fees or administrative costs for early termination. Check your policy terms for potential charges and contact your provider directly about their specific refund process and timeline.
How to Cancel by Insurance Company
Different insurers have different cancellation processes. Here's how to cancel with major providers:
State Farm Cancellation
Call your agent or 1-800-STATE-FARM. Provide your policy number and desired cancellation date. State Farm processes most cancellations within 24 hours with no fees.
GEICO Cancellation
Log in to your online account or mobile app. Navigate to "Policy" > "Cancel Policy" and follow the prompts. The phone option is 1-800-841-3000. GEICO offers same-day processing for online cancellations.
Allstate Cancellation
Contact your local agent or call 1-800-ALLSTATE. Processing takes 3 to 5 business days. Cancellation fees vary by state (typically $0 to $25).
Progressive Cancellation
Use the Progressive app (fastest), online portal or call 1-800-PROGRESSIVE. App and online cancellations are processed immediately with email confirmation.
Liberty Mutual Cancellation
Liberty Mutual requires written notice. Email your agent or mail a cancellation request with policy number, effective date and signature. Processing takes up to 10 business days.
Here is a comparison table to compare the different insurance providers:
Provider | Cancellation Method | Processing Time | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
State Farm | Phone or agent visit | 24-48 hours | None |
GEICO | Online portal or phone | Same day online | None |
Allstate | Phone or agent | 3-5 business days | Varies by state |
Progressive | App, online or phone | Immediate (app/online) | None |
Liberty Mutual | Written notice required | 10 business days | None |
Alternatives to Canceling Renters Insurance
Canceling your renters insurance policy isn't your only option. These alternatives keep you protected while lowering your costs.
Reduce Coverage Limits
Lower your personal property coverage if you don't own expensive items. Dropping from $40,000 to $20,000 coverage can save 30% to 35% on your premium. This works best for renters with minimal belongings or older furniture that doesn't require high replacement cost protection. Don't reduce liability coverage below $100,000 though, since this protects you from lawsuits and costs only $2 to $3 more monthly for substantially better protection.
Increase Your Deductible
Higher deductibles mean lower premiums. Raising your deductible from $500 to $1,000 saves $4 monthly or $48 annually, dropping your premium from $22 to $18 per month. Choose a deductible amount you can afford to pay out of pocket if you file a claim. This option works best if you have an emergency fund and file claims rarely.
Transfer Your Policy When Moving
Most insurers let you transfer coverage to your new address without restarting your policy or losing discounts. You'll keep your claims-free discount worth 10% to 20% savings, avoid new policy fees ranging from $25 to $50, and maintain continuous coverage without waiting periods. Contact your insurer two to three weeks before moving to process the transfer and get updated rates for your new location.
Add a Roommate to Your Existing Policy
Share coverage and costs instead of maintaining separate policies. Adding a roommate increases your premium from $20 to $28 monthly total, reducing each person's cost to $14 per month. This saves each roommate $72 annually compared to solo policies. Both names must appear on the lease, and you'll need a written agreement detailing coverage limits and responsibility for claims or deductibles.
Typical Renters Insurance Refunds After Canceling a Policy Early
Stop your policy before it expires and you'll usually get a refund for the unused portion, particularly if you paid the full premium upfront. You'll receive a prorated refund for months you won't be covered. Refund timing varies by provider, with some taking 30 days or more.
Monthly payers don't receive refunds.
Some insurers charge fees when you cancel early. Read your policy terms and contact your provider about their refund process and timing.
Consequences of Canceling Renters Insurance
Canceling coverage creates these problems:
- Loss of Protection and Increased Liability: You lose theft and damage protection for your stuff, plus liability coverage if someone gets hurt in your rental. You'll pay out of pocket for medical expenses, legal fees and replacing or repairing your belongings after covered events.
- Lease Violation: Your lease might require renters insurance. Canceling violates your lease terms, which could lead to lease termination or penalties from your landlord.
- Difficulty in Future Rentals: Some landlords require renters insurance before renting to you. Canceling your policy makes it harder to find rental housing later.
Fixing Cancellation Problems
If your insurer won't cancel your policy, here's what to do if your insurer refuses or stalls your cancellation:
- 1Ask them to explain why in writing
- 2Pull out your policy and read the cancellation terms yourself
- 3File a complaint with your state insurance department
- 4Save every email, letter and note from phone calls
Your refund amount looks off, do the math yourself and compare. If it doesn't match, challenge it right away and ask for a breakdown that shows:
- 1The daily rate (take your annual premium and divide by 365)
- 2How many unused days you had left
- 3Any fees they took out
If you have an open claim, it makes things messy. Take a look at these options:
- 1Wait until the claim is settled (this is your best bet)
- 2Cancel anyway but keep working with the claims adjuster
- 3Talk to the claims department before you cancel to understand the consequences
AVOID THESE CANCELLATION MISTAKES
Three common errors can cost you money or leave you exposed to liability. Don't cancel your current policy until your new coverage starts—even one day without protection leaves you personally liable for damages. Get written confirmation showing your cancellation date, refund amount and confirmation number so you have proof if disputes arise. Check your lease before canceling, since your landlord may require renters insurance as a condition of your rental agreement.
Canceling Renters Insurance: Bottom Line
Terminating your renters insurance is quick when you handle it right. Call your insurer, get written confirmation and double-check your refund amount before you finalize anything. Don't cancel without new coverage lined up unless you're truly done renting.
Before you pull the plug, look at other ways to save. Cutting your coverage limits in half drops your premium by 30% to 35% and still leaves you with liability protection. Raising your deductible from $500 to $1,000 saves another 15% to 20%.
The average renters insurance policy costs $15 monthly—protecting you from tens of thousands in potential losses from theft, fire, liability lawsuits and lease violations. Without coverage, you're personally responsible for replacing everything you own and paying medical bills if someone gets injured in your rental.
Compare renters insurance rates to find better coverage before canceling.
How To Cancel Renters Insurance Policy: FAQ
MoneyGeek answered some of the most common questions people ask about the cancellation process to help address your concerns.
What happens if you forget to cancel renters insurance?
If you forget to end renters insurance and continue paying premiums, you will maintain coverage until you officially ask for coverage to stop.
When should I cancel renters insurance?
Cancel when you're moving out permanently, no longer renting or switching providers.
Do I get a refund if I cancel renters insurance?
Most insurers refund unused premium. Check with your provider about cancellation fees.
Can I switch renters insurance at any time?
Yes, you can switch anytime. Just make sure your new policy starts before the old one ends to avoid coverage gaps.
What happens if I cancel and my landlord requires insurance?
You're violating your lease. Check your lease terms and keep coverage if it's required.
Can you cancel renters insurance at any time?
Yes, just contact your insurer. Most need one to 30 days notice (depends on state law). Check your lease first since canceling required coverage violates your lease and could trigger eviction.
Will I get money back if I cancel early?
Yes, you'll receive a prorated refund for unused coverage time, minus any cancellation fees. Refunds typically arrive within 7 to 21 business days via your original payment method.
Do I need to cancel when I move?
No, most insurers let you transfer your policy to your new address. This maintains your claims-free discount (10 to 20% savings) and avoids new policy fees. Contact your insurer 2 to 3 weeks before moving.
How do I cancel landlord-provided insurance?
Secure replacement coverage meeting lease requirements first, provide your landlord with a certificate of insurance from your new provider, then submit a written cancellation request. Verify how your rent will adjust after canceling.
Can I switch insurers without canceling first?
Yes, and you should. Purchase your new policy with a start date matching your current policy's end date, then cancel your old policy. This prevents coverage gaps that leave you personally liable.
Canceling Renters Insurance: Related Articles
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research for insurance shoppers. His insights have been featured in CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
He writes about economics and insurance, breaking down complex topics so people know what they're buying.