When Your Insurance Agent Says “Wait Until Renewal” But You’re Paying for What You Don’t Need

I never thought I’d be writing a blog post about homeowners’ insurance. But here we are—and if you’ve ever felt stuck paying for coverage, you no longer need, I hope this helps you feel a little less alone.

Let me start with the obvious: I’m not an insurance expert. I’m a writer and a designer, and someone who believes in ethical, transparent business practices. So when I realized I was being charged for two types of coverage I no longer needed, I assumed a quick phone call would fix it.

Spoiler alert: It didn’t.

The $30 “Bully Dog” Fee After My Dog Passed Away

Three months ago, I lost my dog. It was heartbreaking. And while I was still grieving, I noticed something on my homeowner’s insurance bill: a $30 monthly charge for pet liability coverage labeled “Bully Dog.”

I no longer have a dog. I called my insurance agent and asked to remove the fee. His response?
“We’ll take care of it at the end of the year when your policy renews.”

Wait… what?

I wasn’t asking to cancel my entire policy. Just one rider. One optional add-on for a pet who’s no longer alive. But apparently, that wasn’t enough to justify a mid-year change.

And here’s something else to know: Some insurers may ask for proof that your pet has passed away. That could be a vet’s note, a receipt from cremation services, or even a written statement from you. It’s not always required, but having it ready can help avoid delays or pushback. 

Identity Theft Coverage I Don’t Use

Then I looked closer and saw another $20 charge for identity theft protection. I already have LifeLock. I don’t need duplicate coverage. So, I asked to remove that too.

Same answer:
“We’ll update it at renewal.”

I asked if they needed proof of my LifeLock subscription. He said no but still refused to remove the insurance rider.

 So, What’s Going On?

Here’s what I’ve learned:

• You can request changes mid-policy. Optional riders like pet liability or identity theft protection aren’t locked in until renewal. Agents may prefer to wait, but that doesn’t mean you have to.
• You don’t need proof of alternative coverage to cancel a rider. You’re allowed to say, “I don’t want this anymore.”
• You can go above your agent. If they refuse, contact the insurance company directly. Ask for policy services or a supervisor.
• You can file a complaint with your state’s Department of Insurance. In Missouri, they take billing disputes seriously.

 Why I’m Sharing This

Because I know I’m not the only one. If you’ve lost a pet, changed your coverage, or just want to stop paying for something you don’t use your voice matters. You shouldn’t have to wait months to stop a charge that no longer applies.

And if you’re a small business owner like me, juggling creative work and real-life logistics, these little things add up. They chip away at your time, your energy, and your peace of mind.

So here’s my advice:
Speak up. Document your requests. And don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself even when the system says “wait.” 

 Stay Connected

If this post helped you feel a little more informed or a little less alone I’d love for you to follow along. I share real-life stories, creative tips, and practical advice for navigating everything from insurance quirks to ethical tech and seasonal inspiration.

Because sometimes the most helpful insights come from lived experience.

This article published by Susan Golis, Freelance Writer, blogger, and Content Creator.  AI images created by Susan Golis