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Quick answer: You can switch car insurance companies at any time. One of the most important rules: Don't cancel your current policy until your new one is active. Shop at least 30 days before your renewal date, compare coverages (not just price) and check for discounts. Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance offers an Advance Quote Discount for new customers who request a quote seven or more days before their current policy expires.
Maybe your rate went up at renewal. Maybe you're moving, adding a teen driver or buying a new car. Or maybe you just want to see if there's a better deal out there. Whatever the reason, switching car insurance is simpler than most people expect, as long as you avoid a few common mistakes.
Here are five tips that can help make the process smooth, plus a few extras that may save you money along the way.
An ideal time to shop is about one month before your current policy renews. This gives you time to compare quotes, ask questions and start your new policy on the same day the old one ends. Giving yourself time can help you avoid gaps in coverage.
You can switch mid-term too. Most insurers don't charge a cancellation fee, and you'll typically get a refund for the unused portion of your premium. But switching at renewal is often the cleanest transition.
At Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, new customers who request a quote seven or more days before their current policy expires may qualify for the Advance Quote Discount. Planning ahead literally pays.
1. Understand what you're switching from and what you need
Before you shop, review your current policy. Know your coverage types, limits and deductibles. Are you satisfied with what you have, or do you need to make changes? When comparing quotes, make sure you're comparing the same coverages. A cheaper price with less coverage isn't actually cheaper, should you need to file a claim.
2. Research the new company, not just their price
Price matters, but so does the company behind the price. Look into their financial strength (AM Best ratings), claims service reputation and local presence. At Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, we have a local office in every Indiana county as well as agents and claims team members who take pride in personal service.
3. Ask about every discount you might qualify for
Discounts vary by company and can make a significant difference in the premium amount you pay. At Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, available discounts may include:
Advance Quote Discount: for quoting seven or more days before your policy expires
Paperless Discount: up to 5% off qualifying auto premiums
DriveTrend® Discount: 10% for just participating and up to 15% based on your driving habits
Full Payment Discount: up to 5% off when you pay qualifying premiums in full
And many more: view all Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance discounts
4. Never cancel your current policy before the new one is active
This is one of the most important rules. Even a one-day gap between policies counts as a lapse in coverage. A lapse can lead to higher rates, fines and license suspension in Indiana, not to mention a claim denial. Buy your new policy first. Confirm that it's active. Then, contact your current insurer and cancel.
5. Check for refunds and handle the cancellation properly
If you've prepaid your premium and cancel mid-term, you're usually entitled to a refund for the unused portion. Contact your current insurer directly to cancel because your new company can't do it for you. Make sure the cancellation date matches the start date of your new policy. And if you have a car loan or lease, notify your lender of the switch, so they have your new insurer's information on file.
Keep your new proof of insurance handy. Download the Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance mobile app for a digital copy or print one to keep in your glove box. You'll need it if you're pulled over or involved in an accident.
Frequent switching may cost you. Drivers who change companies might find themselves paying more than those who stay with one carrier for several years. Loyalty may translate to better rates and, in some cases, you might receive a loyalty discount.
Open claims stay with your old insurer. If you have an open claim, your current company will still handle it through to resolution even after you cancel the policy.
Thinking about switching to Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance?
Get a free quote online today. If you quote seven or more days before your current policy expires, you may qualify for the Advance Quote Discount. You can also purchase your policy online or work with a local agent.
Yes. You can switch at any time. Just make sure your new policy is active before you cancel the current one. If you cancel mid-term, you may receive a refund for unused premium. Some companies charge a small cancellation fee, so check your policy terms.
The switch itself costs nothing. It just takes a bit of time to compare quotes and set up your new policy. Some insurers charge a cancellation fee for mid-term cancellations, but many don't. Even with a fee, the savings from switching may be worth it.
Switching too often may work against you. Drivers who stay with one company for several years demonstrate payment consistency, which some insurers may reward with loyalty discounts. That said, if your current rate is significantly higher than what's available elsewhere, switching may be a smart financial move.
It's an Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance discount available to new customers who request a quote at least seven days before their current auto policy's expiration date. It rewards people who plan rather than switching at the last minute.
No. Switching insurers doesn't typically affect your credit score. Some companies run a soft credit check when quoting, but this usually doesn't impact your score. However, if you have an unpaid balance with your previous insurer, that could affect your credit if it goes to collections. Read our blog post on understanding insurance scoring to learn more.
Even a single day without coverage is considered a lapse. In Indiana, this can result in fines, license suspension and higher premiums when you reinsure. Always start your new policy before canceling the current one. (Related: What happens when your car insurance lapses?)
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