Insurance premiums are not usually refundable outside the free look period which is generally between 10 - 14 days from purchase depending on the policy selected.  When you purchase travel insurance, you only want to insure your pre-paid, non refundable trip costs.  If you only have a small deposit or a portion of your expense at risk, most insurance carriers will allow you to purchase the insurance for that amount, and then modify the policy as additional payments are made and are at risk for loss.