Understanding the Legacy of National General Insurance
National General Insurance—often called NatGen—has become a well-known name among auto insurance and homeowners insurance providers across the United States. Founded decades ago and now a wholly owned subsidiary of Allstate, the company focuses on meeting the needs of non-standard buyers and high-risk drivers who may have difficulty obtaining affordable coverage elsewhere.
In 2025, many policyholders continue asking one critical question: Is National General Insurance really worth it? This detailed analysis explores that question from every angle—pricing, coverage, claims process, customer experience, and financial reliability—so that consumers can make an informed decision based on real-world data rather than marketing promises.
Quick Facts & Coverage Snapshot (2025)
| Category | Details |
| Parent Company | Allstate Corporation (acquired NatGen in 2021) |
| Headquarters | Winston-Salem, North Carolina |
| Financial Strength | AM Best Rating: A (Excellent) – strong capacity to meet obligations |
| Primary Products | Auto insurance, homeowners insurance, RV insurance, renters and motorcycle coverage |
| Target Market | Non-standard / high-risk drivers, customers needing flexible policy options |
| Claims Services | MyClaimPics mobile tool, 24/7 online claims reporting, roadside assistance |
| Distribution Network | Sold through independent agents, brokers, and Allstate channels |
| Discount Programs | Safe driver, multi-policy, bundling, low-mileage, gated-community discounts |
| Complaint Record | Above-average complaint rate per NAIC data; improving trend in 2024–25 |
| Best For | Drivers with prior accidents, DUI records, or credit challenges seeking customizable coverage |
A Closer Look at the Company and Its Ownership
Since its acquisition by Allstate, National General Insurance has benefited from robust financial backing and a broader agent network. This ownership transition boosted the company’s financial strength and enabled technology updates for its online quote portal and remote claims process.
Being part of a major U.S. insurer adds stability, a key consideration for policyholders concerned about claims payout capability. Its AM Best rating of “A” confirms NatGen’s capacity to meet long-term obligations—a critical marker of trust in the insurance industry.
The company’s customer base includes diverse profiles—from first-time drivers and owners of older vehicles to people with previous policy cancellations or minor violations. By focusing on this range of consumer needs, NatGen positions itself as a legit insurer for segments often overlooked by mainstream carriers.
What Makes National General Insurance Stand Out in 2025
1. Broad Coverage Options for Drivers and Homeowners
NatGen offers a full suite of products that extend beyond basic liability coverage. Its comprehensive and collision insurance packages protect against damage from accidents, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. For those owning mobile homes or recreational vehicles, the company provides dedicated RV insurance, ensuring coverage for motor homes and travel trailers through custom policy limits and optional add-ons like roadside assistance and emergency expense protection.
Additionally, its homeowners insurance plans cover dwelling replacement, personal property, and liability for injuries occurring on the property. Optional riders allow customers to extend coverage for jewelry, electronics, and other valuables. Each policy comes with transparent information on deductibles, coverage limits, and exclusions so that users understand exactly what they’re buying.
2. A Support System Designed for High-Risk and Non-Standard Drivers
Unlike mainstream insurers that focus solely on low-risk profiles, National General Insurance caters to drivers with DUI records, credit issues, or lapsed policies. Such policyholders are classified as non-standard drivers, a group that often faces rejections or very high rates from other carriers.
NatGen’s underwriting system factors in realistic risk assessment metrics — including accident history, vehicle type, and driving frequency — to offer a policy premium that balances affordability with responsible coverage. Customers can choose deductibles ranging from $500 to $1,000, depending on budget and state requirements.
3. Digital Experience and Online Tools
While National General Insurance was once criticized for a dated website, recent updates have introduced a more user-friendly online quote portal and digital claim estimation tool. The MyClaimPics feature lets policyholders upload damage photos from their smartphone to initiate the claims process within minutes.
Users can also access their declaration page, payment details, and policy exclusions through the portal. While its mobile app remains basic compared to top-tier competitors like Geico or Progressive, it covers all essential functions such as bill payments, claims tracking, and digital ID cards.
4. Customer Service and Complaint Performance
The brand’s record on customer service and complaints has been mixed. Some users report positive experiences with responsive agents and fast claims settlement, while others cite delays or miscommunication during policy changes. Public ratings on Trustpilot, BBB, and Google Reviews reflect an average to above-average score when aggregated through a meta-critic-style evaluation.
One encouraging indicator is that complaint volume has declined since the Allstate acquisition, suggesting that customer support processes are becoming more standardized and transparent. The company now operates extended support hours through phone and chat, providing faster policy assistance and cancellation requests.
5. Financial Stability and Industry Reputation
Financial solvency remains a core pillar of National General Insurance’s appeal. With Allstate’s robust financial backing, NatGen possesses ample reserves to handle large-scale claim events and catastrophic losses. Its AM Best rating of A (Excellent) validates this stability and reinforces the brand’s image as a legit insurer.
Consumers seeking dependable coverage can view this rating as a third-party assurance that their claims will be honored even in high-loss scenarios—a crucial factor for buyers in disaster-prone regions like Florida and Texas.
6. Who Should Consider NatGen in 2025?
National General Insurance serves a niche but essential market segment. It is best suited for:
- Drivers with imperfect records (DUI, accidents, or credit issues)
- Owners of RVs and motorhomes seeking specialized coverage
- Homeowners wanting bundled auto and property policies
- Customers preferring independent agents or brokers for personalized guidance
- Individuals looking for multi-policy discounts and flexible deductibles
7. Pricing and Discount Opportunities
Price is a primary deciding factor for most insurance shoppers. While NatGen’s rates can be higher than mainstream providers for low-risk drivers, it often beats competitors in the non-standard driver category. Customers can save through multiple discounts:
- Safe Driver Discount for maintaining a clean record
- Multi-Policy and Bundling discounts for combining auto and home coverage
- Low Mileage Discount for limited annual driving
- Gated Community Discount for residences with restricted access
- Auto-Pay and Paperless Billing savings
Each discount is state-specific, since insurance pricing is regulated locally by departments of insurance in states like California, Texas, and Florida. NatGen’s online portal lets users calculate personalized quotes based on these regional factors.
8. Coverage Limits and Exclusions
Every policy includes detailed coverage limits and exclusions listed on the declaration page. Typical auto coverage limits start from $25,000 per person for bodily injury and go up to $100,000 or more depending on state rules. Optional comprehensive plans cover animal collisions, hail, and flood damage—areas often missed in bare-minimum liability plans.
NatGen advises customers to discuss policy details with an independent agent to avoid gaps in coverage, particularly for add-ons like rental reimbursement and uninsured motorist protection.
9. Early Assessment of Value
After reviewing NatGen’s structure and offerings, it is clear that the brand delivers on its core promise: serving customers who need flexibility and access to solid coverage without perfect driving records. The company’s financial strength, expanded agent network, and digital claims support make it a credible option for 2025 policyholders.
Still, certain weak spots—like a high complaint rate in some regions and slower claims processing times—remain areas for improvement. These aspects will be analyzed in greater depth in the next section, along with a comparison to industry leaders such as Geico, Progressive, and State Farm.
Understanding the Coverage Options from National General Insurance
One of the major strengths of National General Insurance is the variety of policies it offers for both individuals and families. The company aims to cover nearly every major aspect of personal and vehicle protection, ensuring its customers have access to flexible plans no matter their background or driving history.
Below is an in-depth look at NatGen’s main coverage types and policy features available in 2025.
Auto Insurance Coverage: Core Protection for Everyday Drivers
National General’s auto insurance includes the standard coverage options that most drivers expect, but with additional features tailored for non-standard or high-risk drivers.
- Liability Coverage
This mandatory coverage pays for injuries or property damage that a driver causes to others in an accident. NatGen offers liability limits that meet or exceed state minimums and allow policyholders to raise those limits for added protection. - Collision Coverage
Covers damages to your own car caused by a crash, regardless of fault. This coverage is vital for drivers with newer or financed vehicles. - Comprehensive Coverage
Protects against damage from events other than collisions — such as theft, fire, vandalism, floods, and animal strikes. Many customers in rural states and storm-prone regions rely on this coverage type. - Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Protection
Offers financial recovery if you are hit by a driver without adequate coverage. This feature has become increasingly valuable given rising accident costs nationwide. - Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Medical Payments
Covers hospital bills, rehabilitation, and related expenses for you and passengers, regardless of who caused the accident. This is particularly useful in no-fault insurance states. - Optional Add-ons
NatGen’s optional add-ons include roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, custom equipment coverage, and towing services. Each add-on carries its own deductible and can be tailored by state regulations.
Homeowners Insurance: Protection Beyond the Vehicle
For homeowners seeking to consolidate their policies, National General’s homeowners insurance covers property damage, personal liability, and living expenses after a disaster. Its homeowners policies include:
- Dwelling protection for the structure of the home
- Personal property coverage for furniture, appliances, and electronics
- Liability protection for injuries that occur on the property
- Additional living expense coverage when temporary relocation is required after damage
Customers can also add coverage for flood, earthquake, or windstorm risks, depending on their location. Through bundling, homeowners can unlock multi-policy discounts, combining their auto insurance and homeowners insurance under one provider.
RV and Specialty Vehicle Insurance
RV insurance remains one of NatGen’s most distinctive products. Policyholders can protect motorhomes, travel trailers, and camper vans with custom coverage, including:
- Vacation liability coverage when parked at campsites
- Personal belongings coverage for items stored inside the RV
- Comprehensive and collision protection for damage or theft
- Full replacement cost coverage for newer vehicles
- Optional roadside assistance and emergency expense reimbursement
This focus on specialty coverage helps National General Insurance stand out from competitors like Geico and Progressive, which primarily emphasize auto policies.
How the Claims Process Works with National General Insurance
The true measure of any insurer lies in its ability to handle claims efficiently. The claims process at National General has evolved to include both digital and agent-assisted support options.
Step-by-Step Claims Process Overview
- Filing a Claim
Customers can start claims 24/7 via phone, website, or the mobile MyClaimPics tool. This platform allows users to submit images of vehicle damage and initiate an online claims process within minutes.
- Claim Estimation and Review
After submission, adjusters use the uploaded images or physical inspections to create a claim estimation. The process varies depending on the extent of damage and coverage type.
- Damage Assessment
A local representative or partnered repair shop evaluates the vehicle or property. This stage determines whether the claim falls under comprehensive or collision coverage and calculates applicable deductibles.
- Approval and Settlement
Once verified, claim payments are issued via electronic transfer or mailed checks. On average, minor claims close within 7–10 business days, while major losses may take several weeks.
- Post-Claim
Customers can track claim status through the online portal or by contacting customer service directly. For emergencies, roadside assistance operates 24/7 across the United States.
Although many users have praised the convenience of the MyClaimPics service, some complaints persist about inconsistent communication between agents and adjusters. However, since being integrated into the Allstate network, response times and documentation standards have improved notably.
Pros and Cons of Choosing National General Insurance
Every insurance company has strengths and weaknesses. Below is an honest evaluation of National General Insurance’s most discussed advantages and challenges, based on verified reviews, consumer data, and industry benchmarks.
Pros
- Backed by Allstate, offering robust financial strength and long-term reliability.
- Specializes in non-standard / high-risk drivers, providing access where other insurers often decline coverage.
- Offers broad coverage options, including RV insurance and homeowners insurance.
- Provides discounts and bundling options for safe drivers and multi-policy holders.
- Easy-to-use online quote and claims portal.
- 24/7 customer support and roadside assistance available nationwide.
- MyClaimPics allows quick damage submissions using smartphones.
Cons
- High complaint rate compared to national averages (source: NAIC).
- Some policyholders report slow claims processing times or delayed communication.
- Pricing can be higher for drivers with clean records compared to Geico or State Farm.
- Limited transparency on claim approval rates and processing time statistics.
- The mobile app lacks advanced digital features found in larger competitors.
Discounts, Savings, and Loyalty Programs
In 2025, National General Insurance offers multiple ways to reduce premiums through discounts and rewards. These discounts appeal to both high-risk drivers and long-term customers looking to manage costs.
Available Discount Categories
| Discount Type | Description |
| Safe Driver Discount | For maintaining a clean driving record over three years |
| Multi-Policy / Bundling | Combine auto and homeowners insurance to save up to 20% |
| Low Mileage Discount | Applies to vehicles driven less than a set annual limit |
| Paperless Billing and Auto-Pay | Encourages eco-friendly management and consistent payments |
| Gated Community Discount | For homeowners living in secured or restricted-access communities |
| Defensive Driving Course | Lower premiums for completing a state-approved safety course |
| Student and Senior Discounts | Reduced rates for good students or mature drivers with safe habits |
These savings options, combined with customizable deductibles, make National General Insurance appealing for budget-conscious policyholders who value flexibility.
Pricing and Underwriting Factors
The final premium cost depends on a range of underwriting variables. NatGen evaluates factors such as:
- Driving record – Accidents, violations, or DUIs impact rates.
- Credit score – States that allow credit-based insurance pricing see variation in premiums.
- Vehicle type and age – Newer cars or luxury models typically cost more to insure.
- Location – Rates vary by state; California, Texas, and Florida often have higher averages.
- Coverage selection and deductibles – Choosing higher coverage limits or lower deductibles increases the premium.
- Claims history and mileage – Frequent claims or high mileage may raise prices.
By offering flexibility in each factor, National General Insurance lets customers adjust their policies to strike a balance between affordability and protection.
Competitor Comparison: How National General Stacks Up
| Company | Target Market | Financial Strength | Complaint Ratio | Notable Features |
| National General (NatGen) | Non-standard / high-risk drivers | A (AM Best) | Above average, improving | Backed by Allstate, customizable plans, MyClaimPics |
| Geico | Standard and low-risk drivers | A++ (Superior) | Low | Strong mobile app, competitive pricing |
| Progressive | Broad consumer base, includes high-risk | A+ (Superior) | Average | Snapshot telematics, flexible bundling |
| State Farm | Families, homeowners | A++ (Superior) | Below average | Excellent agent network, claims efficiency |
While Geico and State Farm dominate the standard market with lower rates for preferred drivers, National General Insurance maintains a strong foothold among non-standard buyers who value flexible underwriting. Its connection with Allstate enhances credibility and improves long-term stability.
Policy Exclusions and Coverage Limits
Understanding policy exclusions is essential for avoiding future surprises. Common exclusions under NatGen policies include:
- Intentional damage or fraudulent claims
- Using a personal vehicle for commercial purposes without endorsement
- Unlisted household drivers
- Damage from racing or off-road use
- Mechanical or wear-and-tear issues
Coverage limits can be tailored to meet state requirements, but customers should regularly review their declaration page to ensure adequate protection.
Customer Service and Claims Satisfaction Trends
Over the past two years, National General Insurance has made noticeable improvements in customer satisfaction metrics. Enhanced training for independent agents and better integration with Allstate’s support systems have shortened resolution times for billing, policy changes, and cancellations.
Even though online reviews remain mixed, aggregated data from Trustpilot, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) indicate a gradual improvement in satisfaction scores. Customers particularly appreciate the 24-hour accessibility and live-chat assistance added to the online portal.
Customer Experience, Ratings, and Final Verdict
What Customers Are Saying About National General Insurance
Customer perception of National General Insurance reflects a mixed reputation in 2025. The company, now operating under the Allstate umbrella, benefits from solid financial backing and national recognition. However, reviews show considerable variance in satisfaction levels depending on the state, policy type, and claim frequency.
On Trustpilot, the company holds an average rating of around 3.2 out of 5, with users praising quick quotes and customizable coverage options. Positive feedback often highlights affordable premiums, especially for non-standard drivers or those who struggle to obtain coverage elsewhere.
Conversely, negative reviews typically revolve around claims processing delays, communication gaps, and billing errors. On the Better Business Bureau (BBB), National General maintains an A+ rating for business accreditation, yet customer complaints primarily involve claim denials or unexpected policy cancellations.
Common Complaints and Resolution Practices
According to aggregated data from BBB, Yelp, and ConsumerAffairs, the most frequent customer grievances include:
- Delays in claim settlements beyond 30 days
- Policy cancellations after minor payment delays
- Difficulty reaching customer service agents during peak hours
- Limited claim updates through the online portal
- Differences between quoted and actual premium renewal prices
Despite these issues, National General’s integration with Allstate has notably improved claim turnaround times and transparency. The company now emphasizes “digital-first claim handling” with real-time tracking through its online dashboard.
Evaluating Financial Strength and Legitimacy
The financial strength of an insurance company is a cornerstone of reliability, and National General performs strongly in this area. Its AM Best rating stands at A- (Excellent), demonstrating long-term financial stability and dependable claims-paying ability.
Being a wholly owned subsidiary of Allstate Corporation, National General has access to one of the largest insurance infrastructures in the United States. This relationship reinforces confidence in the company’s solvency and long-term viability.
Key Financial Highlights (2025):
| Metric | Status | Interpretation |
| AM Best Rating | A- (Excellent) | Strong claims-paying ability |
| BBB Accreditation | A+ | Positive customer resolution record |
| Parent Company | Allstate Corporation | $55B+ in annual revenue |
| Policyholder Surplus | $1.9 Billion | Indicates robust financial reserves |
| State Availability | 50 States | Nationwide coverage |
Verdict:
From a financial and regulatory standpoint, National General Insurance is legitimate, stable, and credible. Its association with Allstate adds to its legitimacy, making it a trustworthy insurer for both standard and non-standard customers.
Final Verdict: Is National General Insurance Worth It in 2025?
The answer depends on your driving profile and insurance priorities.
If you are a high-risk driver, non-standard applicant, or simply looking for affordable coverage under a financially stable brand, National General Insurance is a strong contender in 2025. Its affiliation with Allstate enhances trust and reliability, while its broad network of independent agents ensures personalized assistance.
However, if your priority is top-tier customer service, ultra-fast claims, and flawless digital experience, competitors like State Farm or Progressive may offer a smoother experience.
| Category | Rating (Out of 5) | Verdict |
| Coverage Options | 4.3 | Excellent range, customizable |
| Affordability | 4.5 | Competitive for non-standard drivers |
| Claims Process | 3.8 | Reliable but sometimes delayed |
| Customer Service | 3.7 | Mixed reviews; improving |
| Financial Strength | 4.8 | Backed by Allstate stability |
| Overall | 4.2 | Worth considering in 2025 |
Final Thought:
National General Insurance in 2025 stands as a reliable, affordable, and financially secure insurer with a strong foothold in the non-standard auto and property insurance market. It’s not flawless, but it delivers excellent value for customers seeking dependable protection without premium-level pricing.
FAQs
1. What is National General Insurance?
National General Insurance is a U.S.-based insurer specializing in auto, home, RV, and commercial vehicle coverage. Founded in 1920 and now owned by Allstate, it serves all 50 states. It’s best known for offering affordable rates to non-standard drivers and flexible policy options for customers who may not qualify with traditional insurers.
2. Is National General Insurance the same as Allstate?
Yes. National General is a subsidiary of Allstate Corporation, one of the largest insurance companies in the United States. While both operate independently, National General benefits from Allstate’s financial strength, claims infrastructure, and underwriting expertise.
3. Is National General Insurance a good company?
Yes, it’s a reputable and legitimate insurer with an A- (Excellent) AM Best financial rating. It’s a great option for high-risk or non-standard drivers, offering competitive pricing and multiple coverage types. However, customer service reviews are mixed, with some policyholders citing slower claims processing compared to State Farm or Geico.
4. How does National General’s claims process work?
You can file a claim online, via phone, or through an agent. Once a claim is submitted, an adjuster evaluates the damage, verifies documentation, and processes payment after approval. Most auto claims are resolved within 10–14 business days, depending on complexity. The MyClaimPics tool allows customers to upload photos for faster claim approvals.