How to Cancel Root Insurance in 2026 (App-Only Carrier Guide)

Updated 2026-02-22 · 6 min read

⚠️ Secure New Coverage First

Root can cancel your policy instantly through the app. Make sure your new insurance is active before you hit that button — a coverage gap is illegal in most states and will cost you hundreds in higher premiums.

What Is Root Insurance?

Root is a mobile-first auto insurance company that prices policies based on your driving behavior. During a 2-3 week "test drive," the app tracks your phone's accelerometer and GPS to score your driving. Good drivers get cheaper rates — in theory. In practice, Root's been controversial: they were fined by regulators for using credit scores in states that banned the practice, and many customers report rates increasing significantly at renewal even with good driving scores.

How to Cancel Root Insurance

Method 1: Through the Root App (Fastest)

  1. Open the Root app
  2. Go to AccountPolicy
  3. Tap "Cancel Policy"
  4. Select your cancellation date (match it to your new policy start date)
  5. Confirm cancellation

Root is one of the few insurers that lets you cancel directly through the app without calling anyone. This is a genuine advantage — they built the company app-first, and cancellation is part of that experience.

Method 2: Email

Email help@joinroot.com with your policy number, requested cancellation date, and new carrier information. You'll typically get a response within 1 business day.

Method 3: Phone

Call 1-866-980-9431 during business hours. Wait times are usually short since Root has a smaller customer base than traditional carriers.

💡 Request Data Deletion

Root collected your driving data during the test drive and potentially throughout your policy. After canceling, email help@joinroot.com requesting deletion of your telematics data under your state's privacy laws. California residents can use CCPA, and several other states now have similar protections.

Why People Leave Root

Root's Test Drive Score: What Happens to It?

Your Root driving score doesn't transfer to other insurers. However, if you switch to another telematics-based program (Progressive Snapshot, GEICO DriveEasy, Allstate Drivewise), you'll start a new evaluation period. The good news: these established carriers have larger agent networks, better claims handling, and more stable pricing.

Better Alternatives to Root

Refund Timeline

Root processes pro-rata refunds (no short-rate penalty). If you pay monthly, you'll just stop being charged. If you paid in full for 6 or 12 months, expect a refund within 5-10 business days to your original payment method. Check the app for refund status.

After Cancellation Checklist

🔍 How Many Subscriptions Are Tracking You?

Root tracked your driving — but how many other services are quietly charging your bank account? JustCancel scans your bank statement to surface every recurring charge, so you can decide which ones are worth keeping.

Quick Cancel Guide: Root Insurance

Direct cancel link + step-by-step instructions

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