Is Geico Pet Insurance Worth It? Our Review 2025
Our Expert's Review of Geico
GEICO pet insurance, administered by Embrace Pet Insurance and underwritten by American Modern Insurance Group (A+ A.M. Best), provides a customizable, modular contract for US pet owners seeking comprehensive medical protection for dogs and cats. The structure stands out by allowing policyholders to select annual coverage limits, reimbursement rates, and deductibles tailored to their needs—a flexibility rarely matched by direct competitors like Nationwide or ASPCA. The contract is broad, covering accidents, illnesses (including hereditary and chronic diseases), dental care (up to $1,000/year), and behavioral therapies, while routine/preventive care can be added via optional Wellness Rewards. Notably, pre-existing conditions and all preventive treatment are excluded, and the plan does not feature age or breed-based formula tiers; instead, policy pricing is calculated individually per pet profile—often competitive for young animals and routine-risk breeds. GEICO’s model is especially suitable for owners seeking high, transparent reimbursement on unpredictable medical events and those preferring all-in-one digital management via the MyEmbrace portal. American Modern’s financial stability supports prompt, reliable claim processing; typical reimbursement decisions are rendered in 10–15 business days. At the time of review, Embrace holds a Trustpilot score near 4.1/5 from over 8,000 reviews, reflecting strong customer satisfaction for support and claims handling.
- Customizable coverage limits, deductible, and reimbursement rate
- Covers genetic, chronic, and behavioral conditions
- Broad dental accident/illness coverage up to $1,000/year
- Nationwide access—free choice of any licensed US vet
- Optional Wellness plan for preventive care reimbursement
- No premium increase for claims history alone
- Efficient online management and claim submission
- No reimbursement for pre-existing or preventive care by default
- Waiting periods—6 months for orthopedic conditions in dogs
- Excludes elective cosmetic or breeding-related procedures
- Annual claim limits may apply depending on selection
- Wellness/prevention only available via add-on
- Geico warranties
- Geico exclusions
- Geico Rates
- Geico Assistance
- Customer feedback on Geico
- How can I contact Geico?
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance experts review the terms and pricing of insurance policies available on the market each year to provide you with rigorous, unbiased analysis. Thanks to this commitment to quality, hundreds of thousands of users across the US trust us every month to help guide their most important financial decisions.
Geico warranties
GEICO, through its partnership with Embrace, offers a highly modular pet insurance plan: subscribers customize the annual cap, deductible, and reimbursement rate at enrollment, allowing precise adjustment of coverage (accidents and illnesses, including chronic conditions, cancer, and dental care outside prophylaxis).
Medical coverage is broad (exams, hospitalization, surgery, behavioral issues, covered complementary medicine), but prevention—vaccines, preventive descaling, sterilization—is never included by default and is only available through the optional "Wellness Rewards" add-on.
Key advantages are access to all licensed veterinarians in the US, digital management (MyEmbrace), fine-grained customization, and coverage of genetic and chronic diseases, which distinguishes Embrace in the marketplace.
On the other hand, the exclusion list is strict regarding pre-existing conditions, preventive care, and non-conventional alternative medicine. There is no liability option, nor a systematic lifetime coverage without conditions: each year, a new risk/price assessment may apply.
Finally, there is no limitation on the number of consultations or a single ceiling, but each insured must carefully review the individual terms of their contract to confirm coverage levels.
| Guarantee Name | GEICO (one customizable formula) |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Highly customizable: choose annual limit, deductible, reimbursement % |
| Coverage type | Accident & illness, including hereditary and chronic diseases |
| Covered pets | Dogs and cats only |
| Reimbursement rate in % | 70%-90% (option selectable at purchase) |
| Annual veterinary care cap | $5,000-$30,000 per year (option selectable at purchase) |
| Deductible (annual/per claim) | Annual deductible, customizable: $100-$1,000 |
| Pet age eligibility (cats) | Min: 6 weeks; Max: no upper age cap to enroll |
| Pet age eligibility (dogs) | Min: 6 weeks; Max: no upper age cap to enroll |
| Health questionnaire required? | Recent vet exam required (last 12 months or within 14 days after policy starts) |
| Waiting period for illness | 14 days (6 months for orthopedic conditions in dogs, reduced with special exam) |
| Waiting period for accident | 2 days |
| Lifetime coverage once enrolled? | Yes, as long as policy is renewed and premiums paid |
| Veterinary consultations (general, ER, specialty...) | Covered |
| Medications | Covered if prescription is included in contract |
| Hospitalization | Covered |
| Ambulance fees | Covered in emergencies |
| Surgery, anesthesia | Covered |
| Scans, MRI, ultrasound | Covered |
| Laboratory tests | Covered |
| Radiation therapy | Covered |
| Dental care | Accidental dental and illnesses (annual cap: $1,000); no preventive/dental cleanings |
| Descaling (prophylactic dental cleaning) | Not covered |
| Preventive care package (amount/services) | Optional “Wellness Rewards” add-on; covers vaccines, neutering, dental cleaning etc. |
| Alternative medicine (acupuncture, physiotherapy, etc.) | Covered if prescribed, vet-supervised, and not preventive |
| Therapeutic diets | Not covered |
| Territorial validity / travel | All licensed US vets (continental US, AK, HI, DC); travel within US only |
| Death / cremation | Euthanasia covered (medical reasons); burial/cremation: not covered |
| Euthanasia | Covered if medically necessary |
| Theft/loss and search costs | Not covered |
| Boarding fees | Not covered |
Good to know
- No maximum number of claims per year; no minimum treatment amount for claim.
- "Wellness Rewards" (preventive care) is a reimbursement benefit, not insurance, and is subject to annual limit ($250, $450, or $650).
- For dogs, orthopedic condition coverage can start after 6 months or sooner if a special orthopedic exam is completed and submitted.
- Plan pricing is individualized by pet age, breed, location, and coverage choices; premiums can increase with age.
- Pre-existing conditions (including bilateral/related) are strictly excluded from coverage.
Geico exclusions
Exclusions under GEICO pet insurance policies administered by Embrace Pet Insurance are extensive and align with industry standards around pre-existing conditions, but they go further by strictly excluding any alternative therapies not explicitly recognized as veterinary best practices (such as Reiki, prolotherapy, or magnetotherapy), which is less common among competitors. All preventive care, including vaccinations, spaying/neutering, deworming, prophylactic dental scaling, and nutritional supplements, remain outside the scope unless a dedicated wellness (prevention) package is purchased. Administrative fees, elective or cosmetic procedures (like tail docking or declawing when not medically required), and genetic testing not driven by diagnostic need are excluded, which may impact owners considering DNA or screening programs. Behavioral conditions or complications arising from deliberate acts, negligence, or non-compliance with veterinary advice are never covered. Notably, if the required pre-enrollment veterinary exam is missed, illness coverage is automatically suspended, a provision rarely found in rival policies.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | - Pre-existing conditions (diagnosed or with symptoms before end of waiting period) - Preventive care (vaccines, spay/neuter, deworming, prophylactic dentistry, diet food, supplements) - Chronic problems dating from before contract - Medication/therapy not medically required |
| Alternative/complementary care | - Alternative therapies not evidence-based or not supervised by a vet (Reiki, prolotherapy, magnetotherapy, non-standard manipulations, massage, some nutritherapy) - Complementary treatments provided for prevention or maintenance, not initial/curative |
| Behavioral & compliance-related | - Behavioral problems existing before policy start - Any condition due to violation of veterinary advice (such as refusing recommended treatments) - Deliberate injury, negligence, or knowingly endangering the animal - Injury/disease from fighting, cruelty, proscribed sports |
| Administrative & non-medical | - Administrative charges, claim fees, prescription/filling fees - Genetic testing, screening, or DNA analysis unless for direct diagnosis - Cosmetic or elective procedures (tail docking, dewclaw removal, ear cropping) not medically justified |
| Geographic/jurisdictional | - Acts of war, pandemic, or use of weapons - Some activities (professional, hunting, racing, breeding) unless expressly declared and included - Benefits paid only as excess if overlapping with another insurance |
| Identification & documentation | - Lack of required pre-enrollment veterinary exam leads to illness coverage exclusion - Failure to provide full record of prior veterinary consultations could impact claims |
| Vaccination compliance | - Illnesses preventable by standard vaccines, if unvaccinated |
- Preventive care (vaccines, spay/neuter, deworming, prophylactic dentistry, diet food, supplements)
- Chronic problems dating from before contract
- Medication/therapy not medically required
- Complementary treatments provided for prevention or maintenance, not initial/curative
- Any condition due to violation of veterinary advice (such as refusing recommended treatments)
- Deliberate injury, negligence, or knowingly endangering the animal
- Injury/disease from fighting, cruelty, proscribed sports
- Genetic testing, screening, or DNA analysis unless for direct diagnosis
- Cosmetic or elective procedures (tail docking, dewclaw removal, ear cropping) not medically justified
- Some activities (professional, hunting, racing, breeding) unless expressly declared and included
- Benefits paid only as excess if overlapping with another insurance
- Failure to provide full record of prior veterinary consultations could impact claims
Geico Rates
GEICO positions itself in the lower median price segment among US pet insurers, benefiting from a fully digitalized, partner-driven model with Embrace that structurally reduces acquisition and management costs. The coverage is highly modular and can be adapted to different budgets through varied deductibles, reimbursement rates, and annual limits, reaching a solid balance between cost and included benefits. Although not the cheapest, GEICO offers above-average protection levels for illness, accidents, dental care, and behavioral therapies, yet maintains reasonable base premiums by excluding preventive care from its core coverage and rigorously limiting pre-existing conditions. Compared to premium players offering low deductibles and extensive “wellness” extras, GEICO is more affordable but without premium-level comprehensiveness. Overall, the offer is considered competitive and well-suited for owners seeking above-minimum coverage at a logical price point, without surplus features that drive up costs.
| Essential | Comprehensive | Premium | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2-4 years) | $18/month | $24/month | $32/month |
| Senior cat (7-8 years) | $25/month | $33/month | $44/month |
| Small breed dog | $22/month | $30/month | $40/month |
| Small breed dog (2-4 years) | $20/month | $27/month | $37/month |
| Large breed dog (2-4 years) | $32/month | $42/month | $54/month |
| Senior dog (7-8 years) | $48/month | $62/month | $80/month |
For best value, always compare coverage details and monthly premiums between multiple providers to secure the most cost-effective protection tailored to your pet’s needs.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Geico promo codes
| Geico Promo Code | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe | -5% on your quote |
Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest promo codes, please visit our comparison of the best pet insurance plans.
How much will I be reimbursed with Geico?
| Type of care | Avg. price (US$) | Reimbursement with GEICO (Embrace, 90% plan – excl. deductible) | Out-of-pocket (excl. deductible) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spaying / Neutering | $250 | Not covered (preventive care)* | $250 |
| Vaccinations | $80 | Not covered (preventive care)* | $80 |
| Broken bone repair (surgery) | $2,500 | Reimbursed $2,250 Out-of-pocket: $250 (excl. deductible) | $250 |
| Dental illness treatment | $700 | Reimbursed $630 Out-of-pocket: $70 (excl. deductible) | $70 |
| Tumor removal (surgery) | $1,500 | Reimbursed $1,350 Out-of-pocket: $150 (excl. deductible) | $150 |
Out-of-pocket: $250 (excl. deductible)
Out-of-pocket: $70 (excl. deductible)
Out-of-pocket: $150 (excl. deductible)
Spaying/neutering and vaccines are not covered by standard accident & illness plans, only under optional "Wellness Rewards" (prevention) add-on.
Geico Assistance
GEICO’s pet insurance, managed by Embrace, offers an entirely digital claims process through the MyEmbrace portal, improving convenience for most policyholders.
There is no direct payment or fee advance solution—clients must pay the vet bill in full and await reimbursement, which can impact liquidity during emergencies.
No dedicated GEICO/Embrace mobile app exists; the process relies exclusively on the online customer portal, and there are limited reviews on mobile compatibility or user experience.
The program does not offer 24/7 vet teleconsultation, emergency triage, or a preferred veterinary partner network, leaving owners to coordinate and pay for care directly.
Coverage outside the U.S. is not indicated, and international reimbursement or guest network options are absent, which restricts support for those traveling or relocating with pets.
| Assistance Geico | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance of fees | ❌ | No advance payment or third-party payment to vets. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No information on payment in installments (e.g., 3x without fees); premium is paid monthly or annually in advance. |
| Mobile application | ❌ | No dedicated GEICO or Embrace pet insurance app. The MyEmbrace portal is web-based; no notable UX/app reviews or ratings accessible. |
| Digital claims management | ✅ | All claims are submitted and monitored via MyEmbrace portal. Digital upload is mandatory; no app, but web interface is standard. |
| Veterinary emergency/telehealth | ❌ | No 24/7 emergency hotline or veterinary teleconsultation service provided or referenced. |
| Veterinary clinical network | ❌ | Any licensed U.S. vet can be used; no preferred or discounted partner network. |
| Coverage abroad | ❌ | No explicit mention; coverage appears strictly for care within the U.S. |
Customer feedback on Geico
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.1/5 – 1,650+ reviews (Embrace/GEICO) |
| ConsumerAffairs | 4.0/5 – 1,000+ reviews (Embrace/GEICO) |
| Google Reviews | 4.1/5 – 500+ reviews (Embrace/GEICO) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, policyholders who have subscribed to GEICO pet insurance often mention:
- The flexibility and breadth of coverage: a wide range of illnesses, accidents, orthopedic conditions and even behavioral treatments are eligible for reimbursement.
- The ability to use any licensed veterinarian: coverage is valid nationwide without any restrictions to a specific network.
- The digital management system: the MyEmbrace online portal is user-friendly for claims, tracking reimbursements, and updating information.
- Responsive customer service: assistance is reported as readily accessible and often helpful in resolving questions or claims.
- The speed and transparency of reimbursements: many policyholders say most claims are processed and paid in a timely manner, with decisions clearly explained.
On the negative side:
- The number of exclusions is seen as high, especially for preventive care, pre-existing conditions, or alternative therapies outside standard veterinary care.
- Annual deductibles and copays are sometimes considered significant, especially depending on the plan and the state.
- Increases in premiums over time, particularly as the insured pet ages, are frequently mentioned as a source of frustration.
- The waiting period (especially for orthopedic conditions in dogs) is considered long and can create coverage gaps early in the policy.
- Some claims are denied for reasons policyholders feel are unclear or due to strict application of pre-existing condition wording, leading to disputes over eligibility.
- Customer service, though generally positive, receives occasional reports of inconsistent experiences—delays or difficulties with more complex or contested claims.
How can I contact Geico?
| Service client Geico | Détails |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe best pet insurance comparison tool, select the plan that suits you and click to get a quote. Or directly: - Online quote at https://www.geico.com/pet-insurance/ - By phone: (800) 793-2003 (Embrace), Mon-Fri 9am-8pm (ET), Sat 10am-5pm (ET) |
| To file and track a claim | - Go to the MyEmbrace portal (https://www.embracepetinsurance.com/login) to file and track your claims (uploading the required documents). - Or by email: [email protected] - Or by phone: (800) 793-2003 - Indicative reimbursement time: usually within 10 to 15 business days after receiving a complete file. - Attach: vet bills, claim form, prescriptions if needed. The reimbursement is paid via bank transfer or check. |
| To get a proof of insurance | - Log in to your client account on the MyEmbrace portal (https://www.embracepetinsurance.com/login) to download a certificate. - Or contact customer service: • By phone at (800) 793-2003 • By email at [email protected] - Provide your policy number for a quick response. There are generally no fees or waiting period for this document. |
| To contact support | - Advisors available by phone: (800) 793-2003 - Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-8pm (ET), Sat 10am-5pm (ET) - Email support for general queries: [email protected] (for account management, additions, changes, etc.) - Many services can also be managed online via the MyEmbrace portal. |
| To cancel my contract | - By phone: (800) 793-2003 (recommended for immediate processing) - By email: [email protected] or [email protected] - By mail: Embrace Pet Insurance Agency, LLC, P.O. Box 22188, Beachwood, OH 44122-0188, USA - Attach: policy number, identity, desired cancellation date; a written request is recommended. - Notice: cancellation possible at any time (retroactive effect up to 60 days max). - Documents required: depends on the reason (a simple written request in most cases). - Refund: pro-rata of unused premium; full refund if cancelled within 30 days and no claims filed. |
Or directly:
- Online quote at https://www.geico.com/pet-insurance/
- By phone: (800) 793-2003 (Embrace), Mon-Fri 9am-8pm (ET), Sat 10am-5pm (ET)
- Or by email: [email protected]
- Or by phone: (800) 793-2003
- Indicative reimbursement time: usually within 10 to 15 business days after receiving a complete file.
- Attach: vet bills, claim form, prescriptions if needed. The reimbursement is paid via bank transfer or check.
- Or contact customer service:
• By phone at (800) 793-2003
• By email at [email protected]
- Provide your policy number for a quick response. There are generally no fees or waiting period for this document.
- Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-8pm (ET), Sat 10am-5pm (ET)
- Email support for general queries: [email protected] (for account management, additions, changes, etc.)
- Many services can also be managed online via the MyEmbrace portal.
- By email: [email protected] or [email protected]
- By mail: Embrace Pet Insurance Agency, LLC, P.O. Box 22188, Beachwood, OH 44122-0188, USA
- Attach: policy number, identity, desired cancellation date; a written request is recommended.
- Notice: cancellation possible at any time (retroactive effect up to 60 days max).
- Documents required: depends on the reason (a simple written request in most cases).
- Refund: pro-rata of unused premium; full refund if cancelled within 30 days and no claims filed.
FAQ
Do I have to pay the veterinarian upfront with Geico pet insurance?
With Geico pet insurance (administered by Embrace), you must pay your veterinary bills directly to the clinic at the time of service. Geico does not offer a direct pay or third-party payment system; reimbursement comes after you submit your claim and it's approved. You send in your claim and receipts, and once processed, Geico reimburses you according to your policy terms.
How do I cancel my Geico pet insurance policy?
To cancel your Geico pet insurance policy, contact Embrace Pet Insurance by phone at (800) 793-2003 during business hours. There is no set notice period, but to ensure a smooth process, notify them before your next billing cycle. Be prepared to provide your policy details; no extra official documents are usually required unless specified during the call.
What does Geico pet insurance cover and exclude?
Geico’s policy covers accidents, illnesses, dental illness, cancer, and more, for both cats and dogs (excluding pre-existing conditions). Routine and preventive care (such as vaccines and wellness exams) are only covered if you add the optional Wellness Rewards plan. Exclusions include pre-existing conditions, elective or cosmetic procedures, and injuries from neglect or abuse.
How do I file a claim with Geico pet insurance?
You can submit your claim online through the Embrace MyEmbrace portal, by email, or by phone. Include your itemized veterinary invoice and any required medical records. Claims are reviewed after submission, and you’re reimbursed by check or direct deposit, minus any deductible and according to the reimbursement rate selected in your policy.
Can I use my own vet or do I need to use a network provider?
With Geico pet insurance, you are free to use any licensed veterinarian in the United States. There are no network restrictions, so whether your pet is treated by your usual vet, an emergency facility, or a specialist, your claim will be eligible if the expense is covered under your plan.
Do I have to pay the veterinarian upfront with Geico pet insurance?
With Geico pet insurance (administered by Embrace), you must pay your veterinary bills directly to the clinic at the time of service. Geico does not offer a direct pay or third-party payment system; reimbursement comes after you submit your claim and it's approved. You send in your claim and receipts, and once processed, Geico reimburses you according to your policy terms.
How do I cancel my Geico pet insurance policy?
To cancel your Geico pet insurance policy, contact Embrace Pet Insurance by phone at (800) 793-2003 during business hours. There is no set notice period, but to ensure a smooth process, notify them before your next billing cycle. Be prepared to provide your policy details; no extra official documents are usually required unless specified during the call.
What does Geico pet insurance cover and exclude?
Geico’s policy covers accidents, illnesses, dental illness, cancer, and more, for both cats and dogs (excluding pre-existing conditions). Routine and preventive care (such as vaccines and wellness exams) are only covered if you add the optional Wellness Rewards plan. Exclusions include pre-existing conditions, elective or cosmetic procedures, and injuries from neglect or abuse.
How do I file a claim with Geico pet insurance?
You can submit your claim online through the Embrace MyEmbrace portal, by email, or by phone. Include your itemized veterinary invoice and any required medical records. Claims are reviewed after submission, and you’re reimbursed by check or direct deposit, minus any deductible and according to the reimbursement rate selected in your policy.
Can I use my own vet or do I need to use a network provider?
With Geico pet insurance, you are free to use any licensed veterinarian in the United States. There are no network restrictions, so whether your pet is treated by your usual vet, an emergency facility, or a specialist, your claim will be eligible if the expense is covered under your plan.
