In an unpredictable world, the right insurance provider can make all the difference. Whether it’s a fender bender on the freeway, an unexpected medical emergency, or protecting your home from natural disasters, you want an insurance company you can rely on. That’s where National General Insurance steps in.
As one of the more established insurance providers in the U.S., National General has carved out a reputation for offering a wide array of insurance products. But how does it really stack up? In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore the history, offerings, customer service, pros and cons, and tips for deciding whether National General is the right fit for your insurance needs.
What is National General Insurance?
National General Insurance, formerly known as GMAC Insurance, is a prominent U.S.-based insurance provider that offers a variety of insurance products, including:
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Auto Insurance
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Homeowners Insurance
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RV and Motorcycle Insurance
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Health and Accident Insurance
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Small Business Insurance
Founded in 1939 and headquartered in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, National General originally began as part of General Motors. It has since expanded and diversified, serving millions of policyholders nationwide.
In 2021, National General became a part of Allstate, one of the largest insurance groups in the country. This acquisition significantly strengthened its financial foundation and increased customer confidence.
What Does National General Offer?
Let’s break down the key types of coverage National General Insurance provides:
1. Auto Insurance
Auto insurance is arguably National General’s flagship product. Coverage options include:
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Liability insurance
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Collision and comprehensive coverage
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Medical payments coverage (MedPay)
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Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
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Roadside assistance
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Rental reimbursement
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Customized equipment coverage (for modified vehicles)
What makes National General’s auto insurance stand out is its flexibility and optional add-ons. For example, the Smart Services® suite includes accident forgiveness, vanishing deductibles, and a guaranteed repairs program.
2. Homeowners Insurance
National General offers comprehensive homeowners insurance policies, including:
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Dwelling and structural protection
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Personal property coverage
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Liability protection
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Loss of use coverage
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Flood insurance (optional)
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Equipment breakdown coverage
These policies are customizable and cater to single-family homes, condos, and even manufactured homes.
3. Health and Accident Insurance
Through a selection of short-term medical plans, fixed indemnity, and accident insurance, National General provides affordable options for those who may not have access to traditional health insurance.
These plans are especially useful for self-employed individuals, gig workers, or people between jobs who need temporary coverage.
4. Recreational Vehicle (RV) and Motorcycle Insurance
National General is a popular choice for RV enthusiasts and motorcycle riders. Coverage options for RVs include full replacement cost, vacation liability, and emergency expense allowances. Motorcycle insurance includes liability, collision, and guest passenger protection.
5. Small Business Insurance
For small business owners, National General offers commercial auto and liability policies designed to protect business assets. It’s a practical option for contractors, delivery drivers, and small fleet owners.
Unique Features of National General Insurance
What separates National General from the crowded insurance market? Here are a few standout features:
✔️ High-Risk Driver Support
National General is one of the few companies that openly provides policies for high-risk drivers, including those with DUIs, at-fault accidents, or poor credit. This can be a game-changer for individuals struggling to find affordable coverage elsewhere.
✔️ Flexible Payment Plans
Policyholders can choose from a wide variety of payment options, including monthly, quarterly, or bi-annual billing. This flexibility makes it easier to manage premiums according to your budget.
✔️ Telematics Program
Their DynamicDrive telematics program rewards safe driving habits. By using a mobile app that tracks speed, braking, and driving patterns, customers can earn discounts based on real-world behavior.
✔️ Bundling Options
National General offers significant savings when you bundle auto and home insurance. The convenience of managing multiple policies through one provider is also a major plus.
Customer Experience and Reviews
When it comes to customer service, National General receives mixed reviews. According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), they have an A+ rating, which indicates a strong commitment to resolving customer complaints. However, like many insurers, customer satisfaction can vary based on location, specific agents, and policy types.
Common praise includes:
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Fast claim processing (especially for auto insurance)
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User-friendly online tools
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Generous discounts for bundled policies and safe driving
Common complaints include:
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Higher-than-average premiums for some drivers
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Limited availability in certain states
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Long wait times for customer service calls during peak periods
Financial Strength and Reliability
As a subsidiary of Allstate, National General is backed by significant financial resources. The company has received favorable financial strength ratings from major agencies:
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A- (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best
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A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau
These ratings indicate that National General has a solid ability to pay out claims and maintain long-term stability—crucial factors when choosing an insurance provider.
Pros and Cons Summary
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flexible coverage options | Mixed customer service reviews |
| Ideal for high-risk drivers | Premiums can be high for some |
| Strong financial backing (Allstate) | Not available in all states |
| Telematics discounts available | Limited local agents in some areas |
| Bundling options for savings |
Is National General Insurance Right for You?
National General Insurance is ideal for individuals and families looking for flexible, customizable coverage—especially those who may be classified as high-risk or need short-term health insurance solutions. If you:
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Want to bundle home, auto, and health plans
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Have trouble finding affordable coverage due to your driving history
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Need insurance for an RV, motorcycle, or commercial vehicle
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Prefer working with a financially stable, nationwide provider
Then National General Insurance is worth a close look.
However, if you’re looking for the lowest possible premium and have a spotless driving record, you may want to compare quotes with other insurers like GEICO, Progressive, or State Farm to see which offers the best rate.
Final Thoughts
Insurance isn’t just about compliance or ticking off a box—it’s about peace of mind, protection, and preparing for the unexpected. With its broad product offerings, flexible coverage, and strong backing by Allstate, National General Insurance provides a comprehensive solution for individuals and businesses seeking reliable protection.
Before choosing any insurance provider, it’s crucial to shop around, compare quotes, and review policy terms carefully. But for many Americans, especially those with unique insurance needs, National General might just be the right fit.
Need a personalized quote from National General Insurance? Visit their official website or speak to a licensed insurance agent to get started.