If you’ve moved to a new country and urgently need to get yourself on the road, then car insurance is a priority. However, if your situation changes, you might want to look for a more suitable deal.

But can you simply cancel your current car insurance? The simple answer is yes. You can usually cancel car insurance in the UK at any time. But you may need to pay a fee, and you might not get all your money back.

This guide explains how car insurance cancellation works in the UK, so you can choose a policy that still suits you, even if your plans change.

If you’re an existing Marshmallow customer, you can cancel your policy in the app. For clear steps, visit our guide on how to cancel your policy.

Can you cancel car insurance at any time?

Yes. You can cancel a car insurance policy at any point in the year, but:

• You may need to pay a cancellation fee
• You might only get part of your money back
• If you have made a claim, you usually won’t receive a refund

Every insurer has its own rules about fees and refunds.

It’s important to note that cancellation is not automatic. Even if you sell your car or move abroad, you must still tell your insurer to end the policy.

Tip: Always check an insurer’s cancellation rules before you buy.

What is the ‘cooling-off period’ in car insurance?

Most UK car insurance policies include a 14-day cooling-off period. This starts on the day your policy begins or the day you receive your documents.

During this time, you can cancel for any reason and usually get most of your money back.

How it usually works:

• Cancel within 14 days: You get a refund, minus the days you were covered.
• Cancel after 14 days: A cancellation fee is likely.

Most insurers also charge a small admin fee. After the cooling-off period ends, fees are usually higher and refunds smaller.

What affects any refund or fees?

Refunds and cancellation fees vary between insurers. These factors can change how much you get back:

• When you cancel: Cancelling early often means a bigger refund
• Claims: If you have made a claim, most insurers will not refund you
• Admin fees: These differ from insurer to insurer
• Add-ons: Extras (like breakdown cover) may have separate fees
• Payment method: Monthly payments can include extra charges

Find out more on refunds and cancellation fees at Marshmallow.

Things to check before choosing a car insurance provider

Price is important, but it’s not the only thing that matters. Before you choose an insurer, check:

• Cancellation fees: What will it cost to cancel halfway through?
• Cooling-off rules: Do they follow the 14-day period?
• Policy changes: Can you update your address or car instead of cancelling?
• Moving abroad: What happens if you leave the UK?
• No Claims Discount: Do they accept driving history from outside the UK?
• Customer support: Are they easy to contact? Do they offer online help?

If you are new to the UK, your plans may change often. A flexible insurer can save you time and money.

Does cancelling affect future car insurance?

Cancelling a policy should not affect your future insurance quotes, especially if you have not made a claim, you have chosen to cancel, and your details were correct.

You can still build your driving history and No Claims Discount later.

How Marshmallow is different

If you are still choosing an insurer, here is how we make things easier:

• We accept international driving experience from anywhere
• Clear cancellation rules and fees
• You can update your policy if you move home or change your car
• Simple digital support, even if English is not your first language

Get a quote

If you’re new to the UK and want flexible cover that considers your overseas driving history, Marshmallow can help.

Get a quote in minutes — no UK driving history needed.