How to Cancel Your Allstate Car Insurance Policy in 4 Easy Steps

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Written by J.J. Starr Edited by Lequita Westbrooks

Updated May 22, 2024

Allstate is the fourth-largest car insurance company in the country, providing policies for nearly 11% of the market. But that doesn’t mean you have to stick with Allstate if you feel it’s time to move on — especially if you’ve found a better, cheaper auto policy elsewhere.

Luckily, canceling Allstate usually takes a few minutes and costs nothing. You’ll just have to cancel over the phone with customer service and comply with additional state requirements when applicable.

In this article, we provide everything you need to make your cancellation process smooth and painless, including the cancellation steps, how to know when to cancel, and alternatives to consider.

4 Steps to Cancel Your Allstate Car Insurance Policy

Allstate requires you to cancel your car insurance policy over the phone. If you have questions about the cancellation process, it may be helpful to write them down beforehand.

Here are four steps to cancel your car insurance policy with Allstate.

1. Gather your policy info

Before canceling your Allstate policy, review the company’s cancellation process and other applicable information. Allstate doesn’t charge fees for cancellation, but a cancellation could affect any ongoing claims or lead to the permanent loss of policy perks.

Next, you should review your policy information (located on the My Account homepage), focusing on coverage limits, deductibles, and applicable discounts.

Finally, gather essential information, including your policy number, the date you want your policy to end (ideally the day your new policy starts), and any required documentation or forms. Depending on the rules in your state, your agent may ask you for a written request for cancellation.

2. Ensure your new policy is active

To avoid an insurance lapse, purchase your new car insurance policy before canceling your Allstate policy. If you cancel your current policy before your new one is active, you’ll be without insurance protection. A coverage gap exposes you to financial risk — and legal consequences if law enforcement catches you driving without insurance.

Plus, car insurance rates tend to be higher for drivers with a coverage gap. So maintain continuous coverage by ensuring your new policy is active before canceling the old one.

3. Contact Allstate customer service

You can cancel your policy by calling Allstate customer service at 1 (800) 726-6033. To speed up the process, you’ll need your policy number. Give the customer service agent your cancellation date — this should be on or after the start date of your new policy.

If you’re canceling in the middle of your policy term, ask your agent about how and when you should expect your refund of unused premiums. Some states require you to submit an insurance cancellation letter, but your agent will let you know if you need to. Follow Allstate’s guidelines and submit it right away to avoid cancellation delays.

4. Get your cancellation confirmation

Allstate sends cancellation confirmations by email. The confirmation is written proof that you canceled your car insurance policy, and it should include the date of cancellation and other important information.

Your confirmation will generally arrive in two business days, but it could take up to 72 hours. If you haven’t received confirmation within this time frame, contact customer service to resolve the issue. And, if applicable, ensure you’ve canceled any upcoming automatic payments.

When to Cancel Allstate Car Insurance

Deciding when to cancel Allstate car insurance depends on your personal circumstances. But here are some common reasons you may need to cancel your policy:

• You sold your vehicle: If you sell your car or no longer need coverage, it’s probably time to cancel.
• You switched to a different insurer: If you find better rates or coverage elsewhere, canceling and switching companies may be a great option.
• You moved: If you’re moving to a new state or area where Allstate doesn’t offer policies, you’ll need to find a new company.
• You experienced life changes: Anytime you have a life change (for example, getting a new vehicle or getting married), it’s a good idea to compare your car insurance options. You may find a better fit with another company.
• You’re experiencing financial constraints: If premiums become unaffordable or you face financial difficulties, canceling and looking for a cheaper insurer could provide relief.
• You’re dissatisfied with service: Poor customer service or coverage options can make competitors more desirable.

What to Consider Before Canceling Allstate Car Insurance

Before canceling your Allstate car insurance, consider the following:

• Shop for a new policy by researching and getting quotes from competitive insurers to find the best coverage and rates.
• Ensure your new coverage is active before canceling the old one to avoid a gap in coverage and ensure a smooth transition.
• Although Allstate doesn’t charge cancellation fees, you should still review your policy documents to see if it has any special cancellation requirements.
• If you cancel your insurance in the middle of a policy, Allstate may owe you a refund, so be sure to ask about the refund process.
• Consider how losing important discounts, such as bundling discounts, may affect other parts of your budget.
• Set reminders in your calendar or phone to verify the cancellation, just in case something goes wrong.

Alternatives to Canceling Your Allstate Policy

You may not need to cancel your Allstate policy. Here are some alternative options that may help you get a lower rate or meet changing needs:

• Review your policy with an agent. Speak with an Allstate agent to explore options tailored to your needs.
• Ask about discounts. Allstate advertises 13 discounts, plus the Drivewise and Milewise programs that can significantly reduce your premiums.
• Reduce coverage types or limits. Adjust your coverage limits for liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage to better align with your budget.
• Raise deductibles. Higher deductibles can lower premiums by 15% to 30%. But consider this option only if you can afford to pay more out of pocket if you file a claim.
• Explore payment options. Adjust payment frequency or enroll in automatic payments to better fit your budget.

FAQs About How to Cancel Allstate Car Insurance

When you need to cancel a car insurance policy, you need to get it right the first time. To help you navigate your Allstate insurance cancellation, we’ve answered the most common questions about the process below.

Can you cancel your Allstate auto insurance at any time?

Yes, you can cancel an Allstate auto insurance policy at any time. You don’t have to wait for the policy renewal date. But you should have a replacement policy ready to avoid gaps in your insurance coverage.

Does Allstate charge a cancellation fee?

No. Allstate doesn’t charge a cancellation fee or other penalty, even if you cancel before the end of your policy term. Allstate will also refund any portion of unused premiums, if applicable.

Why is Allstate so expensive?

Allstate’s rates are cheaper than the national average for liability-only and full-coverage policies, according to Compare.com data. But insurance companies look at a variety of factors to determine rates, so some drivers may have higher premiums than others.

How do you delete your Allstate account?

You can delete your Allstate account by logging in online and following the instructions under the “Settings” tab. If you need additional assistance, call your insurance agent directly or the customer service line.

Can you cancel your Allstate car insurance policy online?

No, you can’t cancel your Allstate car insurance policy online. You must cancel the policy over the phone by calling 1 (800) 676-5456. Be ready to provide your Allstate policy number and the date you want your policy to end.

Sources

1. Associated Press, “Top 10 largest car insurance companies in the U.S.,” accessed May 13, 2024.
2. Insurance Information Institute, “Nine ways to lower your auto insurance costs,” accessed May 13, 2024.

J.J. Starr Insurance Writer

J.J. Starr is an insurance writer for Compare.com who specializes in auto insurance and personal finance. She has a passion for helping people save money by explaining complex topics like car insurance in a way that is simple and easy to understand. Prior to writing for Compare.com, J.J was a registered banker and life insurance consultant. She holds a master's degree in writing from New York University and a bachelor's degree from Stephens College.