Q:
I forgot to pay my auto insurance premium last month. Will my policy be canceled?
Answer:
Each state has its own rules governing the cancellation of automobile insurance policies. You should check your personal auto policy for information about when, how, and for what reasons coverage can be terminated.
If you fail to pay your premium on time, your insurance company has the right—after providing you with the legally required notice—to cancel the policy. Some companies may send an overdue notice, asking you to pay the past-due premium plus a late fee. Other companies may send a cancellation notice, stating that if payment is received prior to the effective cancellation date, your coverage will be considered "reinstated" and will remain in-force.
If you are sent a notice of cancellation, it will inform you of the date and time the cancellation will take effect
It may also be possible for you to reinstate coverage after the effective cancellation date by paying the overdue premium and perhaps an additional sum. However, it is likely that you will not be covered for any accidents between the effective date of cancellation and the date of reinstatement.
Many companies accept online payment and payments by phone—so, if you've missed a payment, call your company or check online as soon as you remember.