How to Cancel GEICO Car Insurance (2026)

Updated February 2026 · 7 min read

GEICO is the second-largest auto insurer in the US. While they advertise "15 minutes could save you 15%," the reality is rates creep up at renewal. If you've found a better deal, here's how to switch without getting burned.

🔒 Step 1: Get New Insurance FIRST

This is non-negotiable. Before canceling GEICO:

1. Shop quotes from 3-5 insurers (Progressive, State Farm, USAA, Liberty Mutual, etc.)
2. Purchase your new policy with a start date that overlaps your GEICO cancellation date
3. Get your new policy number and declarations page
4. THEN cancel GEICO effective the same day your new policy starts

📞 Method 1: Cancel by Phone (Recommended)

1. Call 1-800-841-3000
2. Hours: 24/7 (automated), or Mon-Fri 7am-12am ET, Sat 8am-6pm ET for an agent
3. Say: "I want to cancel my auto insurance policy"
4. Provide your policy number and the exact cancellation date
5. They'll ask for your new insurer name and policy number (have it ready)
6. Request a confirmation email and prorated refund

🌐 Method 2: Cancel Online

1. Log in at geico.com
2. Go to "My Policy"
3. Look for "Cancel Policy" or "Make Policy Changes"
4. Some policies can be canceled online; others require a phone call
5. If you don't see the option, call the number above

✉️ Method 3: Cancel by Mail

Send a signed cancellation letter to:

💰 Getting Your Refund

• GEICO provides prorated refunds for the unused portion of your premium
• If you paid 6 months upfront and cancel at month 3, you get ~3 months back
• Refunds arrive via check (7-14 days) or back to your original payment method
• No cancellation fees or early termination penalties
• If you had autopay, confirm it's stopped — sometimes the last payment processes before the cancellation is effective

⚠️ Coverage Gap Consequences

Even one day without insurance can:

• Raise your future rates 10-25% — insurers see gaps as high risk
• Result in fines — most states require continuous coverage ($100-500+ penalty)
• Suspend your license/registration in some states
• Void your lease or loan agreement — your lender requires continuous coverage
• Leave you personally liable for any accident during the gap

🎯 Beating the Retention Script

🧮 How to Actually Save on Car Insurance

• Shop every 6-12 months — loyalty doesn't pay in insurance, switching does
• Raise your deductible — going from $500 to $1,000 can save 15-25%
• Bundle home + auto — typical savings of 10-20%
• Ask about usage-based programs — if you drive under 10K miles/year
• Check for employer/alumni discounts — many insurers offer group rates
• Drop comprehensive/collision on cars worth under $4,000 — you'd pay more in premiums than the car is worth

✅ After Cancellation Checklist

• ✅ Confirm new policy is active (check with your new insurer)
• ✅ Save GEICO cancellation confirmation email/letter
• ✅ Remove old GEICO insurance cards from your car/wallet
• ✅ Put new insurance cards in your glove box and phone
• ✅ Notify your lender/leasing company of the new policy
• ✅ Update your DMV if required in your state
• ✅ Confirm autopay is stopped with GEICO
• ✅ Watch for your prorated refund (7-14 days)