Show More

Ask an Expert

Will I get a refund if I cancel my life insurance?

There is one occasion in which you can get a refund if you cancel your life insurance.

Under the Financial Services Regulations 2004, all insurance policies come with what’s called a cooling-off period – for life insurance, this is 30 days. This means that after you take out a policy, you cancel completely free of charge within this period.

Unlike other forms of insurance, if you cancel a life insurance policy you won’t have to pay off the rest of your term and you won’t be charged for cancelling early. However, you won’t be reimbursed for any premiums you’ve already paid either.  

Carefully consider whether cancelling is the right option for you. In some cases it might be, for example if you’ve inherited a sum that’ll pay off your debts, negating the need for insurance. However, if you’re thinking about cancelling due to financial reasons then we strongly recommend caution…

Weigh up the potential cost to your loved ones if they’re not provided for should the worst – it’ll likely outweigh any premium. In some cases, insurers may decrease your monthly payments for a reduced level of cover for that period instead, which you can then reinstate when you are financially able to. But all in all, remember that if you cancel your life insurance and then take out a future policy, you’ll almost certainly face higher premiums due to the fact you’re older.

Vitally, each policy will likely have its own regulations on cancelling and refunds, so you should make certain you check the terms and conditions or simply contact your insurer.

Related guides

Death in Service Benefit and Life Insurance

Death in service insurance is a crucial employee benefit that provides financial security to the loved ones of an employee if they pass away while employed by their company. Unlike a life insurance policy, this benefit is typically tied to an employee's role within a company and is often linked to the company pension scheme. It ensures that a tax-free lump sum is paid to the employee’s beneficiaries, providing financial stability in a difficult time.

Can a Pet be a Beneficiary of Life Insurance?

As an integral part of your family, your pets often become recipients of your deepest affections and care. Over the years, they share countless memories with you, providing unconditional love and companionship. This profound bond prompts many pet owners to contemplate their pets' wellbeing should they predecease their furry, feathered, or scaly companions.In this guide, we’ll explore whether it’s possible to make pets a beneficiary of your life insurance policy and some of the best ways you can make sure they’re taken care of should you no longer be around to look after them.

Life Insurance for Business Owners

As a business owner, you understand that your business is more than just a job – it’s a lifetime investment. It’s not only important to make sure that your business is thriving, but it’s also essential to ensure that you have the right protections in place to safeguard your business and loved ones in case of the unexpected. This is where life insurance comes in.