Hartville Pet Insurance 2025: In-Depth Review, Plan Options & Pricing
Our expert's opinion on Hartville
Hartville pet insurance, underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company, offers a straightforward accident and illness policy for dogs and cats, focusing on actual veterinary costs with user-selected annual limits, deductibles, and reimbursement percentages (typically up to 90%), and includes coverage for alternative therapies, behavioral treatments, and cancer care, with all details specified on the declaration page.Positioned as a mainstream provider, Hartville competes in the mid-tier segment, distinguished by flexible modular budgets but not by multi-plan structures, and generally pricing is moderate versus top digital-first competitors—its main appeal is broad benefit categories and coverage of many real-world expenses beyond basics.Best suited for owners seeking comprehensive coverage for young or middle-aged pets, especially those with variable budgets or purebred animals that may need treatment flexibility, and those comfortable taking responsibility for reviewing contract details and choosing custom options.Hartville’s parent, United States Fire Insurance Company, is part of the Crum & Forster group—an established insurer with strong financial backing; as of 2023, its pet insurance lines generate significant premium volume, and Hartville’s Trustpilot score is 3.4/5 from 336 reviews, with reimbursement typically processed promptly though some users cite longer delays or problems during high-volume transitions.
- ✅Customizable deductible and reimbursement rates
- ✅Covers alternative, behavioral, and cancer therapies
- ✅Actual vet costs reimbursed, not a set fee schedule
- ✅Covers microchip implantation
- ✅Option for direct pay to veterinarians
- ✅Annual benefit limit tailored per contract
- ✅Some positive feedback on quick, easy claims
- ❌No tiered plans; only modular custom limits
- ❌Strict 14-day waiting period for all events
- ❌Numerous exclusions: pre-existing, preventive, cosmetic care
- ❌Mixed reputation for claims denial and administrative errors
- ❌Average Trustpilot score below main competitors
- ✅Customizable deductible and reimbursement rates
- ✅Covers alternative, behavioral, and cancer therapies
- ✅Actual vet costs reimbursed, not a set fee schedule
- ✅Covers microchip implantation
- ✅Option for direct pay to veterinarians
- ✅Annual benefit limit tailored per contract
- ✅Some positive feedback on quick, easy claims
Our expert's opinion on Hartville
ScoreHartville pet insurance, underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company, offers a straightforward accident and illness policy for dogs and cats, focusing on actual veterinary costs with user-selected annual limits, deductibles, and reimbursement percentages (typically up to 90%), and includes coverage for alternative therapies, behavioral treatments, and cancer care, with all details specified on the declaration page.Positioned as a mainstream provider, Hartville competes in the mid-tier segment, distinguished by flexible modular budgets but not by multi-plan structures, and generally pricing is moderate versus top digital-first competitors—its main appeal is broad benefit categories and coverage of many real-world expenses beyond basics.Best suited for owners seeking comprehensive coverage for young or middle-aged pets, especially those with variable budgets or purebred animals that may need treatment flexibility, and those comfortable taking responsibility for reviewing contract details and choosing custom options.Hartville’s parent, United States Fire Insurance Company, is part of the Crum & Forster group—an established insurer with strong financial backing; as of 2023, its pet insurance lines generate significant premium volume, and Hartville’s Trustpilot score is 3.4/5 from 336 reviews, with reimbursement typically processed promptly though some users cite longer delays or problems during high-volume transitions.
- ✅Customizable deductible and reimbursement rates
- ✅Covers alternative, behavioral, and cancer therapies
- ✅Actual vet costs reimbursed, not a set fee schedule
- ✅Covers microchip implantation
- ✅Option for direct pay to veterinarians
- ✅Annual benefit limit tailored per contract
- ✅Some positive feedback on quick, easy claims
- ❌No tiered plans; only modular custom limits
- ❌Strict 14-day waiting period for all events
- ❌Numerous exclusions: pre-existing, preventive, cosmetic care
- ❌Mixed reputation for claims denial and administrative errors
- ❌Average Trustpilot score below main competitors
- ✅Customizable deductible and reimbursement rates
- ✅Covers alternative, behavioral, and cancer therapies
- ✅Actual vet costs reimbursed, not a set fee schedule
- ✅Covers microchip implantation
- ✅Option for direct pay to veterinarians
- ✅Annual benefit limit tailored per contract
- ✅Some positive feedback on quick, easy claims
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies on the market every year to provide you with a reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, over one million users in the US trust us each month to guide them in their most important financial decisions.
Hartville Guarantees
Hartville offers an accident and illness insurance product for dogs and cats that stands out for its real-cost reimbursement model, flexible deductible, and customizable annual limits and reimbursement percentages, as specified individually for each policyholder.
Coverage includes diagnostics, hospitalization, prescribed medication, surgery, behavioral and alternative therapies, and microchip implantation, but preventive care and wellness are not included unless added by endorsement (N.C.).
Payouts require a 14-day waiting period for both accidents and illnesses, and pre-existing conditions are rigorously excluded unless curable and symptom-free for 180 days.
Strengths are broad eligibility, coverage of advanced therapies, and no sublimit for most medical services, but notable weaknesses include numerous exclusions (preventive, cosmetic, pre-existing, and experimental care) and no multi-tier plan structure.
All plan details, such as reimbursement rate, deductible, and annual max, are set on the personalized declarations page at sign-up.
Compare Hartville policy features to find the best value for your pet’s needs.
| Name of coverage | Hartville (customizable single plan) |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Customizable annual maximum, reimbursement %, and deductible |
| Type of coverage (accident, illness, both, etc.) | Both accident and illness |
| Animals covered (dogs, cats, other) | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | N.C. (specified by customer, typically 70–90%) |
| Annual reimbursement limit | N.C. (chosen by customer, typically $2,500 to unlimited) |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | N.C. (annual, amount customizable) |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | N.C. |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | N.C. |
| Waiting period (illness) | 14 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 14 days |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | N.C. (not excluded in available material) |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ all medically necessary visits |
| Medications | ✅ FDA-approved, prescribed |
| Hospitalization | ✅ |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | Extractions only, if medically necessary; scaling/maintenance excluded |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | Microchip implantation only (no wellness-care unless added by endorsement, N.C.) |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ✅ if prescribed and supervised by vet |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | USA, Puerto Rico, Guam, USVI, and Canada |
| Civil liability | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | ✅ medical end of life included |
| Death & cremation coverage | ✅ euthanasia, burial/cremation costs covered |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ❌ |
Important Policy Details
Claims must be submitted within 270 days of service.
Pre-existing conditions require 180 days symptom-free before eligibility.
No tiered plans: all major medical coverage is on a single, customizable base.
Wellness and preventive care coverage, if available, must be purchased separately (N.C.).
Hartville Exclusions
The Hartville policy includes standard exclusions for pre-existing conditions, preventive care, elective and cosmetic procedures, and any conditions arising within the initial 14-day waiting period.
Specific notable exclusions include dental care not related to a covered illness or injury, experimental or non-veterinary recognized treatments, and injuries or illnesses linked to racing, professional use, or intentional acts by owners.
Coverage excludes non-prescription supplements, grooming, most travel outside the US and Canada, organ transplants, and medical issues resulting from failure to follow veterinary advice or vaccination requirements.
Unlike some competitors, Hartville also excludes non-medically necessary dental scaling, cosmetic tail or ear procedures, and coverage for expenses related to epidemics, pandemics, or war.
Importantly, ligament and knee conditions arising before the waiting period, or those untreated during the waiting period, are also systematically excluded.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | Pre-existing conditionsConditions or symptoms during waiting periodCosmetic/elective procedures (tail/ear docking, declawing)Routine dental care not linked to covered illness/injuryProtheses/devices (except when medically necessary and covered)Experimental or non-recognized treatmentsInjury/illness from intentional actsReproduction, pregnancy, whelping, nursingLigament/knee conditions existing before or during waiting periodOrgan or heart valve transplantationsConditions due to neglect of veterinary advice/vaccination |
| Preventive/routine care | Vaccinations or preventive/maintenance drugs/supplements (unless by specific endorsement)Grooming, hygiene or non-prescription productsBoarding (unless due to owner hospitalization) |
| Geographic exclusions | Treatment outside US, its territories, and Canada |
| Civil liability | Any liability claims (not covered) |
| Identification | Coverage denied if animal cannot be identified as per policy requirements |
| Professional/external use | Injuries/illnesses from racing, hunting, law enforcement, guarding, commercial/professional activities |
| Administration/other | Administrative fees, forms, banking/taxesCosts for lost/found, epidemic, pandemic, war, nuclear, terrorist eventsServices rendered by policyholder/caretakerToys, food bowls, ramps |
Hartville Prices
Hartville’s pet insurance occupies a mid-range position in the US market, with pricing and coverage that are generally balanced relative to competitors.
Its policies offer customizable reimbursement rates and deductibles, but coverage does not stand out as exceptionally generous or restrictive compared to alternatives.
The plans cover a wide array of conditions, treatments, and some alternative therapies, but annual limits, waiting periods, and exclusions are standard for the sector.
Hartville is not a fully digital pure player, so its cost structure remains aligned with legacy providers, though it delivers efficient claims processing and responsive customer care.
Overall, Hartville appeals to pet owners seeking solid, flexible protection without paying premium prices, but it is not positioned as the most affordable or the most comprehensive provider.
Take a look at estimated monthly premiums below to compare Hartville’s plan costs by pet profile.
| Hartville Plan | |
|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $23–$28/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $29–$36/month |
| Small breed dog | $28–$33/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $28–$33/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $35–$49/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $49–$73/month |
Hartville Promo Codes
| Hartville Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code |
|
- 5% on your quote
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best pet insurance providers.
Understanding Your Reimbursement with Hartville
With Hartville’s top-tier pet insurance plan, you get annual coverage for accidents and illnesses, with flexible deductibles and reimbursement rates up to 90%. This makes vet care much more affordable and the claims process simple and transparent.
✅ Example 1: Emergency treatment for a fractured leg
Total vet costs: $2,500 (exam, X-rays, surgery, medication, hospitalization)
Deductible amount to subtract: $250 (annual deductible, first claim of the year)
Amount eligible for reimbursement: $2,500 – $250 = $2,250
Reimbursed at 90%: $2,250 × 90% = $2,025
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $2,025.
ℹ️ Your $250 deductible is only charged once per year, so it will not apply to future claims until next renewal.
✅ Example 2: Chemotherapy for canine lymphoma
Total vet costs: $3,800
Deductible already met with previous claims this year
Reimbursed at 90%: $3,800 × 90% = $3,420
👉 You receive $3,420 deposited in your account.
ℹ️ All future claims are reimbursed at 90% until your annual coverage limit is reached.
✅ Example 3: Annual wellness and vaccines
Total vet costs: $320 (exam, routine bloodwork, vaccinations)
No deductible applies to preventive care under the optional Wellness Rewards plan
Amount reimbursed up to the annual maximum: $320 (if your Wellness limit covers it)
👉 You receive $320.
ℹ️ Hartville’s wellness add-on covers routine and preventive care up to your plan’s annual benefit limit, without a deductible.
Hartville Assistance
| Feature | Available | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | Hartville does not offer an advance payment or direct-to-vet option—policyholders must pay the vet directly, then submit for reimbursement. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No installment or payment plan services are mentioned; premiums must be paid in full per billing cycle. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | N.C. No information is available regarding a dedicated Hartville mobile app for claims or account management. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims can be submitted online via the member portal, allowing users to upload documents and track reimbursement status. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | There is no 24/7 emergency telephone vet advice line or teleconsultation service included. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | Hartville does not have an official network of preferred or partner veterinary clinics; customers may use any licensed vet. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Coverage applies throughout the US and extends to Canada and certain US territories; trips abroad are covered if within these prescribed regions. |
Customer Reviews on Hartville
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 3.4 out of 5 (336 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above.
On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Hartville for their pets often mention:
- A fast and straightforward claims process, with many policyholders stating that reimbursements are prompt and claims are paid as promised.
- A courteous and empathetic customer service team, especially noted during difficult times like pet loss or euthanasia claims.
- An easy-to-use online system, including clear Explanations of Benefits (EOBs) and digital claims management.
- Consistent long-term satisfaction for some subscribers, with several clients loyal for many years without experiencing unexpected denials or premium hikes.
- Willingness of customers to recommend Hartville to friends and family, based on positive experiences.
On the negative side:
- A significant number of complaints related to policy transfers, especially for those moved from other providers, including cancellations without notice or unwanted downgrades.
- Frequent issues with billing errors and payment processing, such as continued charges after cancellation or problems with updating card details.
- A lack of transparency and direct communication concerning policy status, claim outcomes, or changes, sometimes leaving policyholders unaware of coverage gaps.
- Recurring reports of claims denied due to technicalities in policy language, such as classifying certain injuries as pre-existing conditions.
- Difficulty reinstating coverage after an administrative lapse, with resulting exclusions of conditions that were previously covered.
Contact Hartville
| Hartville Customer Service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | Submit a claim form, detailed invoice, and description of your pet’s condition. Claims can be submitted online via the Hartville portal (www.hartvillepetinsurance.com), by email at [email protected], or by mail to Hartville Pet Insurance, P.O. Box 349, Omaha, NE 68103-0349. Payment is typically made by check or direct deposit; processing averages 14-30 days from complete documentation. For questions, call 1-800-799-5852. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Request by calling Hartville at 1-800-799-5852 or emailing [email protected]. You may also use your online customer portal to access or download your certificate of insurance at any time after enrollment. |
| To contact assistance | For customer support or urgent assistance, call 1-800-799-5852 or email [email protected]. Assistance is available Monday to Friday. For policy or claims help, you can also write to Hartville Pet Insurance, P.O. Box 349, Omaha, NE 68103-0349. |
| To cancel my policy | Contact Hartville by phone at 1-800-799-5852, by email at [email protected], or by mail. Include your policy number, full name, and a written request to cancel. No minimum notice is required; cancellation is effective upon receipt and a prorated refund is issued for unused premium if eligible. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Hartville?
Yes, with Hartville pet insurance, you usually pay the veterinary bill upfront and then submit a claim for reimbursement. In some cases, Hartville may pay your vet directly if the clinic agrees, but this must be arranged in advance and is not guaranteed by default.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Hartville?
You can cancel your Hartville policy at any time by calling customer service at 1-800-799-5852 or emailing [email protected]. There is no required notice period, but your written request and policy number will help process the cancellation. If you cancel within 30 days and haven't filed a claim, you will receive a full refund.
What does Hartville pet insurance cover and what are the main exclusions?
Hartville covers eligible veterinary expenses for accidents and illnesses, including diagnostics, treatments, surgery, hospitalization, prescription medications, and some alternative therapies. Notable exclusions include pre-existing conditions, routine/preventive care (unless added), dental cleanings, elective and cosmetic procedures, and injuries during the waiting period. Reproduction, experimental treatments, and non-veterinary services are also excluded.
How do I file a claim and how long does reimbursement take?
To file a claim, submit a completed claim form with itemized invoices and medical records through the Hartville online portal, by email, or by mail. Claims must be submitted within 270 days of treatment. After approval, reimbursements are typically paid by check or direct deposit and usually processed within 14–30 days, depending on claim complexity and documentation.
Are there waiting periods or age limits for enrolling pets with Hartville?
Yes, Hartville applies a 14-day waiting period for both accidents and illnesses. There is no explicit maximum enrollment age, but pre-existing conditions and any issues occurring during the waiting period are not covered. Your pet must reside with you in the United States, Guam, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Hartville?
Yes, with Hartville pet insurance, you usually pay the veterinary bill upfront and then submit a claim for reimbursement. In some cases, Hartville may pay your vet directly if the clinic agrees, but this must be arranged in advance and is not guaranteed by default.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Hartville?
You can cancel your Hartville policy at any time by calling customer service at 1-800-799-5852 or emailing [email protected]. There is no required notice period, but your written request and policy number will help process the cancellation. If you cancel within 30 days and haven't filed a claim, you will receive a full refund.
What does Hartville pet insurance cover and what are the main exclusions?
Hartville covers eligible veterinary expenses for accidents and illnesses, including diagnostics, treatments, surgery, hospitalization, prescription medications, and some alternative therapies. Notable exclusions include pre-existing conditions, routine/preventive care (unless added), dental cleanings, elective and cosmetic procedures, and injuries during the waiting period. Reproduction, experimental treatments, and non-veterinary services are also excluded.
How do I file a claim and how long does reimbursement take?
To file a claim, submit a completed claim form with itemized invoices and medical records through the Hartville online portal, by email, or by mail. Claims must be submitted within 270 days of treatment. After approval, reimbursements are typically paid by check or direct deposit and usually processed within 14–30 days, depending on claim complexity and documentation.
Are there waiting periods or age limits for enrolling pets with Hartville?
Yes, Hartville applies a 14-day waiting period for both accidents and illnesses. There is no explicit maximum enrollment age, but pre-existing conditions and any issues occurring during the waiting period are not covered. Your pet must reside with you in the United States, Guam, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands.
