Trusted Auto Insurers

Five checks

How to check a car insurance company

Before you buy, take ten minutes to look past the price. These are the same public checks a careful consumer advocate would make. We don't rate or recommend insurers; we show you where to look.

  1. Is it licensed in your state?

    Search your state insurance department's company lookup. If an insurer or agent isn't licensed where you live, walk away. Licensed insurers are backed by your state's guaranty association if they fail.

  2. What's its complaint record?

    Use the NAIC's Consumer Insurance Search to find the company's complaint index for private passenger auto. 1.00 is average for its size; lower means fewer complaints than expected. Check several years. How to read the index.

  3. How financially strong is it?

    Look up the company's financial strength rating from agencies such as AM Best, S&P, Moody's or Fitch. Make sure it's the specific company that would issue your policy. About ratings.

  4. How does it handle claims?

    Price matters most until you have a claim. Read independent claims satisfaction studies and recent reviews from people who actually filed claims, especially about delays and repair shops.

  5. Is the quote for the coverage you want?

    Compare limits, deductibles and extras line by line with your current policy and other quotes. Compare quotes fairly.