The extraordinary right of cancellation
When an insurer announces an increase in the basic-insurance premium, the insured person benefits from an extraordinary right of cancellation. You can cancel your contract within one month of receiving the notification, effective from the date the new premium takes effect.
This right is valuable: it applies even if the 'ordinary' date of 30 November has passed, as soon as the increase has been notified to you. It is a safety net provided for by law.
How to exercise this right correctly
Date your cancellation and explicitly state that you are cancelling 'following the premium increase notified on …'. Where possible, enclose a copy of the notification. Send by registered mail so you have proof of the date.
The traps to avoid
Do not let the one-month deadline slip: once it passes, the extraordinary right expires. And as always, make sure you have a new insurer confirmed from 1 January before cutting the old one.
Premium increase and changing your deductible
If your goal is to reduce the bill, two levers combine: switching insurer for a lower premium at equal cover, and adjusting your deductible (franchise). Raising the deductible lowers the monthly premium, provided you have few health-care costs.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to cancel after an increase?
One month from receiving the notification of the new premium. After that, the extraordinary right is lost.
Does this right apply to supplementary insurance?
Supplementary insurance (VVG/LCA) also often provides a right of cancellation when the premium is adjusted; check your general terms and conditions, as the deadlines may differ.