Can You Cancel Gap Insurance?

Gap insurance, also known as Guaranteed Auto Protection, is an optional coverage that can be added to your car insurance policy. It covers the difference between the actual cash value of your car and the amount you owe on your car loan or lease. In the event of a total loss, gap insurance can help save you from being on the hook for thousands of dollars.

But what if you no longer need or want gap insurance? Can you cancel it? The short answer is yes, but there are some things you should know first.

When Can You Cancel Gap Insurance?

Gap insurance can be canceled at any time, but the best time to do so is after you have paid off your car loan or lease. Once you have paid off your vehicle, you no longer owe a lender or leasing company money, so the chances of you being in an accident and in need of gap insurance are significantly reduced.

However, if you are still making payments on your car and want to cancel gap insurance, it is important to note that you will need to meet certain criteria first. Most insurance companies require that you have comprehensive and collision coverage in place, and that your car’s actual cash value is equal to or greater than the amount you owe on your loan or lease.

How to Cancel Gap Insurance

If you meet the requirements to cancel your gap insurance, the process is usually straightforward. Here are the steps you should take:

  1. Contact your insurance company. You will need to call your insurance company and let them know that you want to cancel your gap insurance.
  2. Provide necessary information. Your insurance company will likely ask for some basic information about your vehicle, including the make, model, and VIN number.
  3. Confirm cancellation. Once your insurance company processes your request, they will send you a confirmation of cancellation. Be sure to keep this for your records.
  4. Check your next billing statement. Make sure that your gap insurance has been removed from your policy, and that you are no longer being charged for it.

FAQ

1. Is gap insurance mandatory?

No, gap insurance is not mandatory. It is an optional coverage that can be added to your car insurance policy.

2. How much does gap insurance cost?

The cost of gap insurance varies depending on the insurance company and the type of vehicle you have. It can range from a few dollars a month to several hundred dollars a year.

3. Can I get gap insurance after I have already purchased my car?

Yes, you can purchase gap insurance at any time, but it is usually best to do so when you first buy your car. This is because the cost of gap insurance can increase as your car gets older and depreciates in value.

4. What happens if I don’t have gap insurance and my car is totaled?

If you don’t have gap insurance and your car is totaled, you will have to pay the difference between the actual cash value of your car and the amount you owe on your loan or lease out of pocket. This can be thousands of dollars, and can put you in a difficult financial situation.

5. Can I cancel gap insurance at any time?

Yes, you can cancel gap insurance at any time, but it may be best to do so after you have paid off your car loan or lease.

Conclusion

Gap insurance can be a valuable coverage to have, but it is not necessary for everyone. If you no longer need or want this coverage, you can cancel it at any time. Just be sure to meet the requirements set by your insurance company, and to keep a record of your cancellation for your own peace of mind.