---
title: "The General Insurance Review [Updated 2026]"
description: "The General Insurance specializes in auto coverage for drivers who face challenges obtaining standard insurance. Now owned by Sentry Insurance, the company has served customers for over 60 years with flexible payment options and 24/7 claims service."
canonical: "https://www.coveragecat.com/reviews/the-general"
last-updated: "2026-08-13"
---

# The General Insurance Review [Updated 2026]

The General Insurance has carved out a distinct niche in the auto insurance market over the past six decades. Unlike carriers that serve standard-risk drivers, this Nashville-based insurer focuses on customers who might struggle to find coverage elsewhere. Whether due to past accidents, traffic violations, or credit challenges, The General provides [auto insurance](https://www.coveragecat.com/insurance-types/car-insurance) options when other companies decline.

The company operates under three main underwriting entities: Permanent General Assurance Corporation, Permanent General Assurance Corporation of Ohio, and The General Automobile Insurance Company, Inc. [(The General Insurance, "About The General Car Insurance: Our History", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/about/). In January 2025, Sentry Insurance completed a $1.7 billion acquisition of The General from American Family Insurance—the largest transaction in Sentry's 120-year history [(PR Newswire, "Sentry completes acquisition of The General from American Family Insurance", 2025)](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sentry-completes-acquisition-of-the-general-from-american-family-insurance-302340792.html).

This ownership change delivered immediate benefits to policyholders. In February 2025, AM Best upgraded The General's Financial Strength Rating to A+ (Superior) from A (Excellent), with Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings also rising to "aa-" (Superior) from "a+" (Excellent) [(AM Best, "AM Best Removes From Under Review With Positive Implications and Upgrades Credit Ratings of Sentry Insurance Group's New Members Following Acquisition", 2025)](https://news.ambest.com/presscontent.aspx?altsrc=149&refnum=35759). According to AM Best, the upgraded ratings reflect "the group's balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its adequate operating performance, favorable business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management" [(Sentry Insurance, "AM Best upgrades The General Financial Strength Rating following its acquisition by Sentry", 2026)](https://www.sentry.com/about-us/company-news-and-events/am-best-rates-the-general-a-plus).

## What Kinds of Insurance Does The General Offer?

The General specializes exclusively in [auto insurance](https://www.coveragecat.com/insurance-types/car-insurance) products. The company does not offer [homeowners insurance](https://www.coveragecat.com/insurance-types/homeowners-insurance), [renters insurance](https://www.coveragecat.com/insurance-types/renters-insurance), or [umbrella insurance](https://www.coveragecat.com/insurance-types/umbrella-insurance). This focused approach allows the company to concentrate resources on the non-standard auto insurance market.

The General provides coverage in 47 states and Washington, D.C., excluding Alaska, Hawaii, and Michigan [(Wikipedia, "The General (insurance)", 2026)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_General_(insurance)). This broad geographic footprint makes it accessible to most American drivers who need non-standard coverage.

## Does The General Sell Auto Insurance?

Yes, auto insurance is The General's sole product line. The company offers both traditional and specialized coverage options tailored to high-risk drivers.

### Traditional Coverage Options

The General provides standard [auto insurance](https://www.coveragecat.com/insurance-types/car-insurance) coverage types required or recommended in most states:

- **Bodily Injury Liability**: Covers injuries you cause to others in an accident
- **Property Damage Liability**: Pays for damage you cause to another person's property
- **Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist**: Protects you when hit by drivers with insufficient coverage
- **Medical Payments**: Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers
- **Personal Injury Protection (PIP)**: Provides broader medical coverage in no-fault states
- **Comprehensive Coverage**: Protects against non-collision events like theft, vandalism, or weather damage
- **Collision Coverage**: Pays for damage to your vehicle from accidents

[(The General Insurance, "Get a Free Car Insurance Quote Today", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/shop-insurance/auto-insurance/)

### Extra Coverage Options

Beyond basic protection, The General offers additional coverage enhancements:

- **Rental Reimbursement**: Pays for a rental car while yours is repaired
- **Custom Equipment Protection**: Covers aftermarket modifications to your vehicle
- **Roadside Assistance**: Provides help with breakdowns, flat tires, and lockouts
- **Deductible Waiver**: Eliminates your deductible under certain circumstances

[Ibid.](https://www.thegeneral.com/shop-insurance/auto-insurance/)

### Specialty Insurance Products

The General also offers specialized policies for unique situations:

- **Non-Owner Policies**: Coverage for drivers who don't own a vehicle but need liability protection
- **Rideshare Coverage**: Protection for drivers working with companies like Uber or Lyft
- **Mexico Auto Insurance**: Short-term coverage for trips across the border
- **SR-22 Filing Assistance**: Helps high-risk drivers meet state requirements for proof of financial responsibility [(U.S. News & World Report, "The General Car Insurance Review 2026 - Coverage & Cost", 2026)](https://www.usnews.com/insurance/auto/the-general-car-insurance-review)

[(The General Insurance, "Get a Free Car Insurance Quote Today", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/shop-insurance/auto-insurance/)

| Coverage Type | What It Does | Who Needs It |
|---------------|-------------|--------------|
| Liability (Bodily Injury & Property Damage) | Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others | Required in most states |
| Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist | Protects you when other driver lacks sufficient coverage | Recommended for all drivers |
| Comprehensive & Collision | Pays for damage to your own vehicle | Required by lenders; optional otherwise |
| Non-Owner Policy | Provides liability coverage when you drive but don't own a car | Frequent borrowers, rideshare drivers |
| SR-22 Filing | Certificate proving you carry minimum required insurance | Drivers with DUI, suspended license, or serious violations |

## How Does The General Work?

The General operates as a direct-to-consumer insurance provider. Customers purchase policies directly without an independent agent. The company combines online, phone, and limited in-person service channels.

### Getting a Quote

Customers can obtain quotes through three main channels:

1. **Online**: Visit thegeneral.com to enter information and receive an instant quote
2. **Phone**: Call 1-800-280-1466 during business hours for quote assistance
3. **In-Person**: Visit one of The General's storefront locations in Louisiana

The quote process considers multiple factors specific to non-standard insurance: driving history, credit score, vehicle type, and geographic location [Ibid.](https://www.thegeneral.com/shop-insurance/auto-insurance/).

### Policy Management

Once enrolled, policyholders can manage their coverage through multiple channels:

- **Mobile App**: Available for iOS and Android, the app enables policy management, payments, ID card access, and claims filing. The app maintains a 4.7-star rating on both platforms [Ibid.](https://www.thegeneral.com/shop-insurance/auto-insurance/)
- **Online Portal**: Web-based account management at thegeneral.com
- **Phone Service**: Customer service available Monday-Thursday 7 AM-9 PM CT, Friday 7 AM-8 PM CT, and Saturday 8 AM-4 PM CT [(The General Insurance, "Contact Us - Feedback or Questions?", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/about/contact/)

### Payment Options

The General offers flexible payment arrangements designed for budget-conscious customers. The company advertises low down payments and various payment schedules, along with customer-chosen due dates for monthly payment plans [(Ibid., "Get a Free Car Insurance Quote Today", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/shop-insurance/auto-insurance/). This flexibility makes coverage more accessible to high-risk drivers who might face affordability challenges.

## Pricing and Discounts

As a non-standard insurer, The General's rates reflect the higher risk associated with its customer base. The company offers various discounts to help reduce costs.

### Average Costs

Pricing varies significantly based on individual risk factors. The General Insurance policy reviews from independent sources provide general benchmarks showing the company's rates exceed standard market averages because they serve drivers other insurers decline.

### Factors Affecting Your Rate

Several elements influence your premium:

- Credit score and financial history
- Driving violations and accident history
- ZIP code and local claim trends
- Insurance coverage lapses
- Vehicle make, model, and age
- Commute distance and annual mileage

[(The General Insurance, "Car Insurance By State", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/car-insurance/states/)

### Available Discounts

The General offers several ways to reduce premiums:

- **Defensive Driving Course**: Up to 10% discount for completing an approved course
- **Driver Training**: Discounts for formal driver education
- **Transfer Discount**: Savings when switching from another insurer
- **Good Student**: Discounts for students maintaining good grades
- **Military**: Available in Louisiana for service members and veterans
- **Homeowner**: Discounts for property owners
- **Prior Insurance**: Credits for maintaining continuous coverage
- **Double Deductible Discount**: Doubles your deductible for the first 45 days in exchange for a lower premium [(Yahoo Finance, "The General car insurance review 2026: 2.9 out of 5 stars", 2026)](https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/insurance/review/the-general-car-insurance-review-212153658.html)

| Discount Type | How to Qualify | Typical Savings |
|--------------|----------------|-----------------|
| Defensive Driving | Complete state-approved defensive driving course | Up to 10% |
| Good Student | Maintain qualifying GPA (typically B average or higher) | Varies by state |
| Transfer | Switch from another insurer without coverage lapse | Policy-specific |
| Multi-Driver | Add multiple drivers to same policy | Bundle savings |
| Homeowner | Own your residence | Varies |

## Customer Service and Support

The General provides multiple support channels with varying availability throughout the week.

### Contact Options

**Phone Support**:
- Main customer service: 1-800-280-1466
- Hours: Monday-Thursday 7 AM-9 PM CT, Friday 7 AM-8 PM CT, Saturday 8 AM-4 PM CT
- Fraud reporting: 1-800-280-1466 Ext 1115

**Claims Reporting**:
- Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Existing claims support: Monday-Friday 8 AM-5 PM local time

[(The General Insurance, "Contact Us - Feedback or Questions?", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/about/contact/)

**Digital Channels**:
- Online policy management portal
- Mobile app for iOS and Android
- Email support through website contact forms

### Locations

The General maintains its corporate headquarters at 2636 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville, TN 37214 [(Better Business Bureau, "The General Insurance | BBB Business Profile", 2026)](https://www.bbb.org/us/tn/nashville/profile/auto-insurance/the-general-insurance-0573-10965). The company also operates storefront locations in Louisiana for in-person service [(The General Insurance, "About The General Car Insurance: Our History", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/about/).

## Claims Process

The General emphasizes accessibility and speed in its claims handling, with 24/7 reporting available through multiple channels.

### How to File a Claim

Policyholders can report claims through three methods:

1. **Phone**: Call 24/7 claims hotline at 1-800-280-1466
2. **Online**: Submit claims through the website portal
3. **Mobile App**: File claims directly from the iOS or Android app

[(The General Insurance, "Car Insurance Claim | Car Accident Claims Information", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/claims/)

The company also accepts third-party claims online, even from individuals who are not policyholders [(The General Insurance, "How the Car Insurance Claims Process Works", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/going-places/blog/car-insurance/how-the-car-insurance-claims-process-works/).

### What Happens After Filing

Once you report a claim, The General follows a standard investigation process:

1. An insurance adjuster contacts you within a few days
2. The adjuster conducts an investigation of the incident
3. Claims may cover medical bills, lost wages, and property damage depending on your coverage type

[(Ibid., "Car Insurance Claim | Car Accident Claims Information", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/claims/)

The company claims to have provided car insurance for over 60 years and promotes what it describes as a "fast, clear claims process" [(Ibid., "How the Car Insurance Claims Process Works", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/going-places/blog/car-insurance/how-the-car-insurance-claims-process-works/). However, independent ratings suggest The General insurance claims handling remains a concern. According to Yahoo Finance, The General received a D- grade from the CRASH Network for claims handling performance [(Yahoo Finance, "The General car insurance review 2026: 2.9 out of 5 stars", 2026)](https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/insurance/review/the-general-car-insurance-review-212153658.html).

## Pros and Cons

<div class="grid">
<div class="pros">

### Pros

**Serves High-Risk Drivers**: The General accepts customers other insurers reject, providing essential coverage for drivers with challenging histories <a href="https://www.thegeneral.com/">(The General Insurance, "The General Car Insurance | Get a Quote to Insure Your Car", 2026)</a>

**Flexible Payment Options**: The company advertises low down payments and various payment schedules with customer-chosen due dates <a href="https://www.thegeneral.com/shop-insurance/auto-insurance/">(Ibid., "Get a Free Car Insurance Quote Today", 2026)</a>

**Strong Financial Backing**: AM Best upgraded The General to an A+ (Superior) rating in February 2025 following the Sentry acquisition <a href="https://news.ambest.com/presscontent.aspx?altsrc=149&refnum=35759">(AM Best, "AM Best Removes From Under Review With Positive Implications and Upgrades Credit Ratings of Sentry Insurance Group's New Members Following Acquisition", 2025)</a>

**24/7 Claims Reporting**: Around-the-clock access to file claims via phone, online, or mobile app <a href="https://www.thegeneral.com/claims/">(The General Insurance, "Car Insurance Claim | Car Accident Claims Information", 2026)</a>

**Broad Geographic Coverage**: Available in 47 states and Washington, D.C. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_General_(insurance">(Wikipedia, "The General (insurance)", 2026)</a>)

**High Mobile App Ratings**: iOS and Android apps maintain 4.7-star ratings for policy management and claims filing <a href="https://www.thegeneral.com/shop-insurance/auto-insurance/">(The General Insurance, "Get a Free Car Insurance Quote Today", 2026)</a>

</div>
<div class="cons">

### Cons

**Higher Than Average Rates**: Premiums exceed national standard insurance averages, though this reflects the high-risk customer base <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_General_(insurance">(Wikipedia, "The General (insurance)", 2026)</a>)

**Elevated Complaint Volume**: Yahoo Finance reports a three-year average NAIC complaint index of 2.910, well above the industry benchmark of 1.0 <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/insurance/review/the-general-car-insurance-review-212153658.html">(Yahoo Finance, "The General car insurance review 2026: 2.9 out of 5 stars", 2026)</a>

**Poor Claims Handling Ratings**: Received a D- grade from CRASH Network for claims handling performance <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/insurance/review/the-general-car-insurance-review-212153658.html">(Ibid., "The General car insurance review 2026: 2.9 out of 5 stars", 2026)</a>

**Limited Product Line**: Only offers auto insurance, so customers need separate providers for home, renters, or umbrella coverage <a href="https://www.thegeneral.com/about/">(The General Insurance, "About The General Car Insurance: Our History", 2026)</a>

**Mixed Customer Service Reviews**: While Trustpilot shows high ratings, other platforms like Yelp reflect lower satisfaction <a href="https://www.yelp.com/brands/the-general-automobile-insurance-services">(Yelp, "The General Automobile Insurance Services Reviews", 2026)</a>

**Limited In-Person Service**: Physical storefront locations available only in Louisiana <a href="https://www.thegeneral.com/about/">(The General Insurance, "About The General Car Insurance: Our History", 2026)</a>

</div>
</div>

## Ratings and Customer Feedback

The General insurance rating varies across platforms, reflecting the challenges inherent in serving the non-standard insurance market. The General Insurance reviews from customers and industry sources show mixed performance.

| Rating Source | Rating | Notes |
|--------------|--------|-------|
| A.M. Best | A+ (Superior) | Upgraded in February 2025 from A (Excellent) following Sentry acquisition; outlook stable [(AM Best, "AM Best Removes From Under Review", 2025)](https://news.ambest.com/presscontent.aspx?altsrc=149&refnum=35759) |
| Demotech | Not available | The General is not rated by Demotech |
| NAIC Complaint Index | 2.910 | Three-year average complaint index well above the industry benchmark of 1.0 [(Yahoo Finance, "The General car insurance review 2026", 2026)](https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/insurance/review/the-general-car-insurance-review-212153658.html) |
| Yelp | 2.2/5 stars | Based on 120 reviews; rating indicates most customers are generally dissatisfied [(Yelp, "The General Automobile Insurance Services Reviews", 2026)](https://www.yelp.com/brands/the-general-automobile-insurance-services) |
| Google Maps | Not available | No verified headquarters listing found |
| Trustpilot | 4.0/5 stars | Based on 132,810 customer reviews [(Trustpilot, "The General Reviews", 2026)](https://www.trustpilot.com/review/thegeneral.com) |
| BBB | Not Accredited | Not BBB Accredited; customer complaints focus on claims handling delays and billing issues [(Better Business Bureau, "The General Insurance", 2026)](https://www.bbb.org/us/tn/nashville/profile/auto-insurance/the-general-insurance-0573-10965) |
| CRASH Network | D- grade | Poor performance in claims handling according to independent assessment [(Yahoo Finance, "The General car insurance review 2026", 2026)](https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/insurance/review/the-general-car-insurance-review-212153658.html) |

### What Customers Say

<div class="grid customer-reviews">

<div class="customer-review">

#### Positive Experience with Easy Enrollment

"The General's step by step procedure was a breeze to complete. In just under an hour I was insured with a reasonable quote and a fair policy."

**Rating: ★★★★★**

[Source: Trustpilot Review](https://www.trustpilot.com/review/thegeneral.com)

</div>

<div class="customer-review">

#### Affordable Coverage When Needed

"No one would accept me, these guys did and I'm very grateful. They really are a company for the people."

**Rating: ★★★★★**

[Source: Trustpilot Review](https://www.trustpilot.com/review/thegeneral.com)

</div>

<div class="customer-review">

#### Claims Processing Concerns

"The General Automobile Insurance Services has an average rating of 2.2 from 120 reviews. The rating indicates most customers are generally dissatisfied."

**Rating: ★★☆☆☆**

[Source: Yelp Brand Reviews](https://www.yelp.com/brands/the-general-automobile-insurance-services)

</div>

<div class="customer-review">

#### Communication Issues

"I currently have an open claim with The General Insurance Company, and the experience has been extremely frustrating. It's been several days with no contact from anyone regarding my claim. My calls go straight to voicemail, and no one returns messages or texts."

**Rating: ★☆☆☆☆**

[Source: BBB Customer Review](https://www.bbb.org/us/tn/nashville/profile/auto-insurance/the-general-insurance-0573-10965/customer-reviews)

</div>

</div>

## Financial Strength and Stability

The General's financial position improved substantially with the January 2025 Sentry acquisition. The transaction totaled $1.7 billion, including approximately $1.0 billion in cash consideration plus assumed liabilities and required capital [(AM Best, "AM Best Removes From Under Review With Positive Implications and Upgrades Credit Ratings of Sentry Insurance Group's New Members Following Acquisition", 2025)](https://news.ambest.com/presscontent.aspx?altsrc=149&refnum=35759).

In February 2025, AM Best upgraded the company's Financial Strength Rating to A+ (Superior) from A (Excellent), with Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings also upgraded to "aa-" (Superior) from "a+" (Excellent). According to AM Best, the ratings reflect "the group's balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its adequate operating performance, favorable business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management" [(Sentry Insurance, "AM Best upgrades The General Financial Strength Rating following its acquisition by Sentry", 2026)](https://www.sentry.com/about-us/company-news-and-events/am-best-rates-the-general-a-plus).

This upgrade placed The General among insurers with superior financial strength. The A+ rating represents the third-highest out of 13 possible AM Best ratings [(The General Insurance, "About The General Company History", 2025)](https://www.thegeneral.com/about/history/). The outlook assigned to these ratings is stable [(AM Best, "AM Best Removes From Under Review With Positive Implications and Upgrades Credit Ratings of Sentry Insurance Group's New Members Following Acquisition", 2025)](https://news.ambest.com/presscontent.aspx?altsrc=149&refnum=35759).

The acquisition brought approximately 1,300 General employees into Sentry's workforce and represents the largest acquisition in Sentry's 120-year history [(PR Newswire, "Sentry completes acquisition of The General from American Family Insurance", 2025)](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sentry-completes-acquisition-of-the-general-from-american-family-insurance-302340792.html). Under American Family Insurance's ownership from 2012 to 2024, The General grew revenue more than fivefold [(Wikipedia, "The General (insurance)", 2026)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_General_(insurance)).

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is The General the same company as National General Insurance?

No, The General Insurance and National General Insurance are separate companies with different ownership and business models. The General is owned by Sentry Insurance and specializes in direct-to-consumer non-standard auto insurance. National General is owned by Allstate and operates through a network of over 55,000 independent agents.

### What states does The General operate in?

The General provides coverage in 47 states and Washington, D.C. The company does not operate in Alaska, Hawaii, or Michigan [Ibid.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_General_(insurance)).

### Does The General offer homeowners or renters insurance?

No, The General specializes exclusively in [auto insurance](https://www.coveragecat.com/insurance-types/car-insurance). Customers seeking [homeowners insurance](https://www.coveragecat.com/insurance-types/homeowners-insurance), [renters insurance](https://www.coveragecat.com/insurance-types/renters-insurance), or [umbrella insurance](https://www.coveragecat.com/insurance-types/umbrella-insurance) need to work with separate insurance providers.

### Is The General good insurance for high-risk drivers?

The General serves drivers who face challenges obtaining standard insurance coverage. This includes individuals with past accidents, traffic violations, credit issues, or gaps in insurance history [(The General Insurance, "The General Car Insurance | Get a Quote to Insure Your Car", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/). The company provides options when traditional insurers decline coverage. However, customer satisfaction metrics show mixed results, with elevated complaint volumes and poor claims handling ratings according to independent sources [(Yahoo Finance, "The General car insurance review 2026: 2.9 out of 5 stars", 2026)](https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/insurance/review/the-general-car-insurance-review-212153658.html).

### How do I file a claim with The General?

You can file claims 24/7 through three channels: call the claims hotline at 1-800-280-1466, submit online through the website portal, or use the mobile app for iOS or Android [(The General Insurance, "Car Insurance Claim | Car Accident Claims Information", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/claims/). An insurance adjuster will contact you within a few days to conduct an investigation.

### What is The General's AM Best rating?

Following the Sentry Insurance acquisition completed in January 2025, AM Best upgraded The General's Financial Strength Rating to A+ (Superior) from A (Excellent) in February 2025. This represents the third-highest rating out of 13 possible ratings [(AM Best, "AM Best Removes From Under Review With Positive Implications and Upgrades Credit Ratings of Sentry Insurance Group's New Members Following Acquisition", 2025)](https://news.ambest.com/presscontent.aspx?altsrc=149&refnum=35759).

### How much does The General auto insurance cost?

Pricing varies based on individual risk factors because The General serves high-risk customers. Rates exceed standard insurance averages due to the elevated risk profile of drivers served, but the company offers flexible payment options and multiple discounts to help reduce costs [(The General Insurance, "Get a Free Car Insurance Quote Today", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/shop-insurance/auto-insurance/).

### Does The General offer discounts on auto insurance?

Yes, The General provides multiple discount opportunities including defensive driving course completion (up to 10% off), driver training, good student discounts, military discounts in Louisiana, homeowner discounts, credits for maintaining prior insurance coverage, and a unique double deductible discount [(Yahoo Finance, "The General car insurance review 2026: 2.9 out of 5 stars", 2026)](https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/insurance/review/the-general-car-insurance-review-212153658.html).

### Can I manage my policy online?

Yes, The General offers online policy management through their website portal and mobile apps for iOS and Android devices. You can make payments, access insurance ID cards, update policy information, and file claims through these digital channels. Both apps maintain 4.7-star ratings [(The General Insurance, "Get a Free Car Insurance Quote Today", 2026)](https://www.thegeneral.com/shop-insurance/auto-insurance/).