Cancel 123.ie: Step-by-Step Guide

How to cancel 123.ie insurance from new zealand and understand your refund rights

What is 123.ie and why you might want to cancel

123.ie is an Irish online insurance provider that sells motor, home, van, landlord, travel, health and life insurance products entirely through its digital platform. The company operates from Ireland and applies Irish regulatory frameworks even when serving customers in New Zealand.

You might hold a 123.ie policy if you previously lived in Ireland, worked for an Irish employer, or purchased cover while travelling. If your circumstances have changed, your cover no longer suits your needs, or you have found a better deal locally, cancelling your policy is straightforward-but the process does require navigating an Ireland-based system from New Zealand.

At Tocancel, we understand that cancelling an overseas insurance policy can feel daunting. This guide walks you through exactly how to cancel 123.ie, what refunds you are entitled to, and what happens after you end your cover.

Products 123.ie offers

123.ie sells seven main insurance categories: car insurance, home insurance, van insurance, landlord insurance, travel insurance, health insurance and life insurance. Each product carries different cooling-off periods and cancellation fee structures, which we cover in detail below.

All policies are sold and managed from Ireland, which means cancellation forms, refund cheques, and customer service communications originate from Irish addresses. This does not make cancellation harder-just different from cancelling a New Zealand-based insurer.

Why cancelling matters right now

If you have moved to New Zealand permanently or no longer need coverage in Ireland, keeping an active policy wastes money every month. Automatic renewals are common, and 123.ie will continue to charge your payment method until you formally cancel. Taking action now stops unexpected charges and ensures your cover ends on your terms.

Your consumer rights when cancelling 123.ie

This section explains the legal protections you have under Irish consumer law, how they apply to you in New Zealand, and what steps you can take if 123.ie refuses to honour them.

Cooling-off periods and your statutory protection

Irish consumer law gives you protection during a cooling-off period for most 123.ie insurance products. This period is typically 14 days from the date you purchase or receive your policy documents-whichever is later. During this window, you can cancel for a full refund without penalty, even if no cooling-off period is mentioned in your policy wording.

For life insurance, the cooling-off period extends to 30 days. If you cancel within this timeframe and have not made a claim, you receive your full premium back.

The key rule: no claim must have been made during the cooling-off period. If you have already claimed, refunds may be reduced or forfeited entirely.

Your legal position is clear: you have a statutory right to cancel during the cooling-off period without loss or penalty, regardless of what 123.ie's terms say.

Mid-term cancellation rights and fees

After the cooling-off period ends, you can still cancel anytime-but 123.ie applies cancellation fees and charges you only for the days you were covered. These mid-term fees vary by product type and are set out in your policy documents.

Your statutory rights do not disappear after cooling-off. If 123.ie refuses to cancel or charges unfair fees, you can escalate to the Irish Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (FSPO) or seek support from Tocancel, which has helped thousands of consumers navigate disputes with overseas providers.

Data protection and policy records

After cancellation, 123.ie retains your policy records for the period required by Irish insurance regulations-typically six years. You have the right to request a copy of your policy file or ask for data deletion where the law allows. Submit these requests via customer care alongside your cancellation notice.

How to cancel 123.ie step by step

Below are the three methods to cancel 123.ie, listed in order of speed and recommended approach.

Method one: online self-service cancellation

The fastest way to cancel is through your 123.ie account on the web. Follow these steps in order:

1. Visit 123.ie and log into your account using your email address and password
2. Navigate to your active policies or dashboard
3. Select the policy you want to cancel
4. Look for a "Cancel policy" or "Manage policy" button
   • This is usually located under policy actions or settings
   • If you cannot find it, proceed to Method Two
5. Follow the on-screen prompts and confirm your cancellation
6. Wait for an email confirmation from 123.ie
   • This typically arrives within 2 to 5 working days
   • Keep this email as proof of cancellation

Online cancellation is the safest method because you receive instant confirmation and a cancellation reference number.

Method two: email cancellation

If the online option is not available or you prefer written confirmation, email 123.ie at their Irish customer care address. Follow these steps:

1. Write a clear email with the subject line "Policy cancellation request" and include:
   • Your full name as it appears on the policy
   • Your policy number
   • The date you want the cancellation to take effect (or state "immediate cancellation")
   • Your current contact email and phone number
2. State that you are exercising your right to cancel under Irish consumer protection law
3. Request a written confirmation of cancellation and any refund amount due
4. Send the email to 123.ie customer care (see contact details in the cancellation address section below)
5. Keep a copy of your email and the timestamp for your records
6. Expect a response within 5 to 10 working days

Email cancellation creates a clear paper trail and is valuable if 123.ie later disputes whether you cancelled.

Method three: postal cancellation

If email contact fails or you prefer traditional post, you can cancel by letter sent to 123.ie's Irish office. Follow these steps:

1. Write a formal letter on plain paper that includes:
   • Your full name and address
   • Your policy number
   • The cancellation date you request
   • A statement that you are cancelling under Irish consumer law
   • Your signature
2. Keep a copy of the letter for your records
3. Send the letter by registered post or tracked mail to the address listed in the contact section below
4. Request a tracking receipt to prove delivery
5. Allow 10 to 15 working days for a response

Postal cancellation is slower but creates the strongest legal evidence if a dispute arises later.

Refunds and what to expect after cancellation

Understanding your refund entitlement and timeline helps you track whether 123.ie processes your cancellation fairly and in full.

Refund amounts and calculation

Your refund depends on when you cancel within the policy year. If you cancel within the 14-day cooling-off period (30 days for life insurance), you receive a full refund of all premiums paid, minus any claims already made.

If you cancel after the cooling-off period, 123.ie refunds the unused portion of your annual premium minus any cancellation fees stated in your policy documents. The refund is calculated on a daily basis, so the longer you hold the policy, the smaller your refund.

For example: if you pay £500 annually and cancel after 6 months, you are entitled to a refund of £250 (minus any applicable cancellation fee). The exact amount depends on your policy terms.

Refund timing and method

123.ie typically processes refunds within 10 to 15 working days of your cancellation request. The refund is usually sent by cheque to your registered address, although some policies may offer bank transfer.

If you live in New Zealand and provided a New Zealand address, the refund cheque must be sent to you there. Factor in international postal delays-expect 4 to 6 weeks for a cheque to arrive from Ireland to New Zealand.

If no refund arrives within 30 days of your cancellation confirmation, contact 123.ie immediately and ask for a trace on your refund.

Handling currency and bank charges

If your policy was in euros or pounds sterling and you receive a cheque, your New Zealand bank may charge a fee to process the foreign currency deposit. Tocancel recommends asking 123.ie whether they can issue a refund by bank transfer directly to your New Zealand account, which often avoids these fees.

Common mistakes to avoid when cancelling

Cancelling an overseas policy can feel uncertain, and small errors can delay your refund or leave you without proof of cancellation. Watch out for these common pitfalls.

Not providing your policy number

123.ie has thousands of customers. If you email or write to cancel without including your policy number, the company cannot identify which policy you want to cancel. Always quote your policy number in every communication.

Cancelling on the wrong date

If you state a future cancellation date, your policy remains active and you continue to be charged until that date arrives. If you want immediate cancellation, state "I wish to cancel effective immediately" or "I wish to cancel effective today".

Not keeping proof of cancellation

If you cancel online, screenshot your confirmation screen. If you cancel by email or post, save the confirmation email or keep the postal receipt. Tocancel has helped consumers dispute non-cancellations when they had proof that 123.ie received their request.

Forgetting to cancel automatic renewal

Some policies auto-renew a few weeks before expiry. If you cancel after renewal has already processed, you may be charged for another year. Check your cancellation confirmation to see the exact date your cover ends.

Assuming your cover ends on the day you request cancellation

In most cases, your cover ends at the end of the policy day on which you cancel-not immediately. If you need cover to end on a specific date, state this clearly in your cancellation request and ask for written confirmation.

Pricing and cancellation fee reference

Cancellation fees vary by product type and are outlined in your policy documents. The table below shows typical fee structures for 123.ie products in New Zealand.

All fees listed are estimates. Your actual cancellation fee is stated in your policy documents. If you believe a fee is unfair, you can dispute it with the Irish Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman.

What happens after you cancel 123.ie

Once your cancellation is confirmed, several things happen in sequence. Knowing what to expect helps you track the process and spot any delays.

Confirmation of cancellation

Within 5 working days, 123.ie sends you a cancellation confirmation letter or email. This document states your policy number, cancellation date, and (if applicable) your refund amount. Keep this forever as proof your policy ended.

Your cover ends

On the date specified in your cancellation confirmation, your insurance cover ceases. You are no longer protected under the policy. If you need replacement cover, arrange a new policy with a New Zealand-based insurer before your 123.ie cover ends.

Payment method stops being charged

If you had a credit card or bank account linked to your 123.ie account, the company stops charging you after your cancellation date. Check your bank or credit card statements 2 to 3 weeks after cancellation to confirm no further charges appear.

Data retention and deletion requests

123.ie keeps your policy records for six years for regulatory compliance. You cannot force earlier deletion, but you can request a copy of your file or ask what personal data the company holds about you. Email customer care with your request.

What to do if 123.ie refuses to cancel

In rare cases, 123.ie may claim it cannot cancel your policy or may deny receiving your cancellation request. Here is your step-by-step escalation path.

Step one: send a formal written demand

Email 123.ie and state: "I formally request cancellation of policy [number] under Irish consumer protection law. This is your notice that I am exercising my statutory right to cancel. Please confirm receipt of this email and provide a cancellation confirmation within 5 working days."

Tocancel recommends using this language because it makes clear you understand your rights.

Step two: escalate to the company's complaints process

If 123.ie does not respond within 5 working days, follow their formal complaints procedure. Most insurers have a complaints email or contact number on their website. File a complaint stating that 123.ie has refused to cancel your policy despite your lawful request.

Step three: contact the irish financial services and pensions ombudsman

If 123.ie still refuses to cancel or settle your complaint within 8 weeks, you can escalate to the Irish Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (FSPO). The FSPO is Ireland's free dispute resolution authority for financial services. You can file a complaint online at fspo.ie. Include copies of all your emails and cancellation requests.

Tocancel has found that a formal FSPO complaint often prompts insurers to resolve issues quickly.

Cancellation address and contact details

123.ie does not operate a New Zealand postal address for cancellations. All cancellation requests must be sent to the company's Irish head office.

Your policy documents contain the specific Irish postal address. If you no longer have them, visit 123.ie and log into your account-the address is listed in your policy details or the contact section.

Checklist: before and after cancellation

Use this checklist to ensure you have completed all steps correctly and have all the proof you need.

Before cancellation

• Locate your 123.ie policy number (it is on your policy documents or in your online account)
• Check your policy cooling-off period (14 days for most products, 30 days for life insurance)
• Review the cancellation fees in your policy documents
• Calculate what refund you expect to receive
• Arrange replacement insurance with a New Zealand provider so you have no gap in cover
• Keep your current address details updated in your 123.ie account

During cancellation

• Use online self-service cancellation if available (fastest and safest)
• If emailing or posting, include your policy number and full name
• State your requested cancellation date clearly (use "immediately" or "effective today" for no delay)
• Save a copy of your email or take a screenshot of your online confirmation
• Keep the postal receipt if you send a letter by registered mail
• Request written confirmation of your cancellation and refund amount

After cancellation

• File your cancellation confirmation email or letter safely (keep for six years)
• Check your bank or credit card statements 2-3 weeks later to confirm charges have stopped
• Monitor for your refund to arrive (expect 4-6 weeks from Ireland to New Zealand)
• If your refund does not arrive within 30 days, contact 123.ie and ask for a trace
• Confirm that your new replacement insurance cover has started with no overlap
• Delete your 123.ie online account or reset your password if you wish

Summary and next steps

Cancelling 123.ie from New Zealand is straightforward when you follow the right process. Your statutory rights are protected by Irish consumer law whether you cancel during the cooling-off period (full refund, no fee) or after (refund minus daily charges and cancellation fee).

The fastest method is online self-service cancellation through your 123.ie account. If that is not available, email customer care with your policy number and cancellation request. Allow 5 to 10 working days for a response and 4 to 6 weeks for your refund to arrive in New Zealand by cheque.

If 123.ie refuses to cancel or disputes your refund, you can escalate to the Irish Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman for free dispute resolution. At Tocancel, we have helped thousands of consumers cancel overseas insurance policies and recover refunds they were entitled to. If you run into difficulty, Tocancel can guide you through escalation and help you understand your rights under Irish consumer law.

Start your cancellation today using the step-by-step method that suits you best. Tocancel recommends online cancellation first-it is instant, safe, and requires no waiting. Your cover ends on your terms, and your refund is on its way.