In the vast and complex world of insurance, few names stand out for their unique combination of history, reliability, and service excellence. National General Insurance is one such name. Known for its deep roots in the American insurance landscape and a wide variety of products, this insurer has carved a solid reputation as a go-to provider for auto, home, and other specialty insurance needs.
But what exactly is National General Insurance, and why should you consider it? This article will provide a deep dive into the company, its offerings, benefits, and everything you need to know before making a decision.
What is National General Insurance?
National General Insurance (often abbreviated as NatGen) is a prominent property and casualty insurance company headquartered in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Formerly known as GMAC Insurance, the company has been operating for over 75 years and has since expanded into one of the most recognized brands in the personal insurance market.
In 2021, National General was acquired by The Allstate Corporation, one of the largest insurance companies in the United States. This acquisition not only added to its credibility but also enabled NatGen to access more resources, better technology, and a wider range of insurance solutions.
Key Products Offered by National General Insurance
National General provides a broad portfolio of insurance products tailored to meet different customer needs. Below are the core categories:
1. Auto Insurance
Auto insurance is NatGen’s flagship product. The company is particularly popular among high-risk drivers or those looking for affordable policies with flexible options.
Key features include:
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Liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage
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24/7 roadside assistance
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Rental car reimbursement
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SmartDrive telematics for safe driver discounts
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SR-22 filings for high-risk drivers
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Customizable deductibles and payment plans
2. RV and Motorhome Insurance
NatGen is a leading provider of recreational vehicle (RV) insurance, a niche product not all insurers handle well. Coverage is available for motorhomes, campervans, and trailers.
Benefits include:
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Full replacement cost coverage
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Personal belongings protection
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Emergency expense coverage if stranded
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Optional full-time RV policies for those who live in their RVs
3. Homeowners Insurance
National General’s home insurance policies offer solid protection against common threats like fire, theft, and natural disasters.
Coverages may include:
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Dwelling and structural damage
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Personal property protection
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Liability coverage
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Additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable
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Add-ons like flood or earthquake insurance (depending on location)
4. Renters Insurance
Renters insurance is a cost-effective way to protect belongings in a rental property. NatGen offers customizable options with fast claims processing.
5. Small Business and Commercial Auto Insurance
NatGen provides commercial vehicle insurance tailored to small businesses that depend on transportation—delivery services, electricians, landscapers, and more.
Who Should Consider National General Insurance?
National General may not be the first name that comes to mind for every insurance shopper, but it serves a very specific market exceptionally well. Here’s who it’s ideal for:
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High-Risk or Non-Standard Drivers: Those with poor credit, previous claims, or driving violations often find better rates with NatGen than mainstream insurers.
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Frequent Travelers and RV Owners: With specialty products in RV insurance, NatGen stands out as a top pick.
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Budget-Conscious Shoppers: The company’s flexible payment plans and discounts make it attractive to those on tight budgets.
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People Needing SR-22 Filings: If you’re required to carry an SR-22, NatGen is one of the most accessible and accommodating providers in this niche.
Unique Features of National General Insurance
1. Dynamic Pricing Models
NatGen uses advanced data analytics and telematics (via SmartDrive) to personalize rates based on actual driving behavior, offering savings to safe drivers.
2. Accident Forgiveness
In certain states, NatGen offers accident forgiveness — your rates won’t go up after your first at-fault accident.
3. Lifetime Repair Guarantee
If you use a National General-approved repair shop, your vehicle repairs are guaranteed for life as long as you own the car.
4. Bundling Options
Customers can bundle multiple policies (auto + home, or RV + auto, etc.) to save money and simplify policy management.
Pros and Cons of National General Insurance
✅ Pros
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Affordable options for high-risk drivers
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Specialty coverage for RVs, commercial vehicles, and non-standard needs
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Telematics and driver tracking for usage-based discounts
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Backed by Allstate’s financial strength
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Quick online quotes and policy access
❌ Cons
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Customer satisfaction scores can vary by region
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Not all coverage options are available in every state
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Fewer in-person agents compared to legacy insurers like State Farm or Allstate
Customer Experience and Reviews
Customer reviews for National General Insurance are generally mixed to positive. Many policyholders praise the affordability and flexible options, especially for those who don’t fit the mold of a “standard driver.” However, some have reported issues with claims delays or billing errors.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) gives NatGen an A+ rating, though user-submitted reviews are more diverse. Like many insurance companies, satisfaction can heavily depend on your local office or claims adjuster.
Pro tip: Always read customer reviews for your specific state or region, as local service makes a significant difference.
Discounts Offered by National General
To remain competitive, National General provides several discounts that can lower your premiums:
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Multi-vehicle discount
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Multi-policy discount
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Safe driver discount (via SmartDrive)
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Low mileage discount
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Homeownership discount (even if the home is insured elsewhere)
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Paid-in-full discount
How to Get a Quote or Buy a Policy
Getting a quote from National General is easy and can be done in several ways:
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Online through their official website
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Via phone with licensed agents
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Through independent insurance agents
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Partner platforms and comparison websites
Steps to follow:
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Enter your ZIP code and personal details.
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Choose the type of insurance you’re looking for.
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Customize your coverage and select deductibles.
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Compare quotes and finalize your purchase.
You’ll typically receive your policy documents digitally within minutes.
Final Thoughts: Is National General Insurance Worth It?
If you’re in the market for affordable, customizable insurance — especially if you’re a high-risk driver or need coverage for an RV or commercial vehicle — National General Insurance is well worth considering.
It may not have the name recognition of Allstate or Geico, but it delivers excellent value in the right circumstances. Plus, with the financial backing of Allstate, policyholders enjoy added peace of mind.
As always, do your research, compare quotes, and read the fine print before committing. Insurance is a long-term relationship, and finding the right fit can make all the difference.