Is Nationwide Pet Insurance Worth It? Review 2025
Our Expert's Opinion on Nationwide
With over 1 million pets insured and a presence spanning 40 years, Nationwide stands out among U.S. pet insurers for its scale, reliability, and breadth of coverage. Nationwide offers a straightforward medical plan (Plan A) that can be customized with an optional wellness/preventive care add-on, making it highly adaptable to individual needs and budgets. Its core plan reimburses a percentage of veterinary invoices after an annual deductible (typically starting at $100 or $250), with annual payout limits defined at sign-up and clear coinsurance rates. Preventive care, including vaccinations and annual screenings, is accessible as a paid option, which distinguishes Nationwide among major national carriers. Compared to leading competitors, Nationwide positions itself as an established, accessible option with competitive entry pricing (from $13/month) and coverage continuity for pets regardless of their age at renewal—an asset for owners seeking lifetime reassurance. The plan is particularly suited for younger pets—where pre-existing exclusions are less restrictive—and for owners seeking a robust insurer with long-term stability, good customer service, and flexibility, including exotic pet coverage. Nationwide’s industry stature is further supported by a 4.4/5 Trustpilot score based on 1,177 reviews, reflecting strong satisfaction on claims handling and client loyalty, even if some customers report premium increases and occasional documentation or communication challenges. Claims are typically processed quickly online, with most reimbursements received within industry-standard timelines.
- Choice of any licensed vet in the US or abroad
- Covers accidents, illnesses, and optional preventive care
- No age-based exclusion once insured
- Competitive monthly pricing starting at $13
- Strong industry reputation and financial stability
- Dedicated 24/7 VetHelpline and pharmacy discounts
- Fast and user-friendly online claims process
- Premiums may increase significantly at renewal
- Wellness/prevention coverage only if selected separately
- Strict exclusions for pre-existing conditions
- Annual payout limits and deductibles apply
- Occasional delays or confusion with documentation
- Nationwide Guarantees
- Nationwide Exclusions
- Nationwide rates
- Nationwide Assistance
- Customer feedback on Nationwide
- How to contact Nationwide?
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies on the US market every year to provide you with accurate and impartial analyses. Thanks to this commitment, hundreds of thousands of users across the US trust us each month to help guide their most important financial decisions.
Nationwide Guarantees
Nationwide stands out by combining a single main comprehensive formula for accidents and illnesses, adjustable through a customizable annual deductible (from $100, typically $250), and a flexible percentage of reimbursement tailored at enrollment, with no age limit for continued coverage once the policy is in force. Preventive care (wellness) is available strictly as an add-on option, covering essentials like vaccines, check-ups, dental cleaning, and microchipping, provided it is selected at sign-up, creating a wider scope than some US competitors limited to medical events. Nationwide’s strengths are the breadth of eligible procedures (including chronic illnesses and therapeutically prescribed diets), global choice of veterinarian, permanent insurability, and value-added services like 24/7 VetHelpline and pharmacy discounts. However, wellness/prevention benefits are not standard and strictly require explicit selection, and some non-medical or holistic treatments plus all pre-existing conditions, ligament injuries during the first policy year, reproductive procedures, and elective treatments are firmly excluded. The lack of detailed published annual limits, percentage rates, and age bands published upfront means that prospective policyholders must obtain a tailored quote to precisely know their reimbursement ceilings and plan terms.
| Guarantee Name | Main Medical Formula (Accident & Illness) | Preventive/Wellness Option (Add-on only) |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning of formula | Core formula, customizable at sign-up | Optional add-on; must be chosen at start |
| Type of coverage: accident, accident & illness, etc. | Accident & illness (diagnostics, treatment, chronic) | Preventive care, routine wellness, select dental |
| Animals covered | Dogs, cats, birds, exotics | Same as core plan if selected |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | Customizable; typical options up to 90% | Not a %; yearly limits per act/service |
| Annual reimbursement limit | Personalized at quote; not publicly stated | Separate annual limit for prevention (see quote) |
| Annual/per-incident deductible | Annual; options from $100, most choose $250 | May apply per item/annual; details in documentation |
| Min & max enrollment age (dogs) | No upper age limit; recommend before 8y | Same for dogs if main plan active |
| Min & max enrollment age (cats) | No upper age limit; recommend before 8y | Same for cats if main plan active |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire? | Not required, but pre-existing excluded | Not required |
| Waiting period for illness | 14 days standard (individual/group may differ) | 14 days if option chosen |
| Waiting period for accident | 14 days | Not applicable |
| Covered for life if insured continuously? | Yes, coverage continues indefinitely | Yes, if option kept active |
| Vet consultations (routine, emergency, specialist) | All eligible, anywhere globally | Exams/routine consults covered in wellness add-on |
| Medications | FDA/EPA prescribed, when related to covered event | Not included unless preventive (e.g., deworming) |
| Hospitalization | Yes, for covered events | No |
| Ambulance expenses | Yes, if medically necessary | No |
| Surgery, anesthesia | Yes, if medically necessary | No |
| MRI, CT, ultrasound | Yes, if for covered pathology | No |
| Lab tests | Yes, for covered incidents | Routine/preventive tests in wellness option |
| Radiotherapy | Yes, for covered illness | No |
| Dental care | Only accident/illness dental issues | Preventive dental cleaning if add-on chosen |
| Dental scaling | No (unless preventive; then if selected) | Included if wellness option selected |
| Wellness benefit (amount & what's included) | Not included | Yes: vaccines, check-ups, heartworm/flea, microchip, spay/neuter, dental cleaning, routine labs |
| Alternative therapies (acupuncture, etc.) | Not covered unless prescribed for event | Not covered |
| Prescription diet | Covered if tied to a specific medical event | Not in wellness option |
| Covered countries/travel | Any veterinarian worldwide | Same if active plan |
| Death/cremation | NC | NC |
| Euthanasia | NC | NC |
| Theft/loss/search costs | Not covered | Not covered |
| Boarding/grooming costs | Not covered | Not covered |
Good to Know
Nationwide does not apply an age limit at renewal, but initial enrollment is strongly advised before age 8 for optimal terms. Pre-existing conditions, including those manifesting up to 12 months before coverage, are strictly excluded. No coverage for cosmetic, breeding/reproduction procedures, or non-medical/veterinary costs. Reimbursement is always after annual deductible and only for medically necessary, veterinarian-prescribed care. Annual plan limits, reimbursement % and wellness benefits vary per quote—verify specifics before subscribing.
Nationwide Exclusions
Exclusion list for Nationwide's pet insurance contract includes all classic exclusions: pre-existing conditions (unless arguably curable and proven stable for at least 6 months), experimental or non-vet-approved procedures, elective cosmetic interventions, and costs not medically prescribed. Notably, there is a strict exclusion for any non-veterinary or non-medically necessary services (boarding, grooming, food unless prescription), as well as for breeding or reproductive expenses and consequences. Additionally, cross-ligament or meniscus injuries within the first 12 months (unless policy is continuously maintained) are specifically excluded, which is often less highlighted by competitors. Only acts prescribed and justified by a U.S.-licensed vet are admissible, and routine wellness/preventive care is only covered if the specific wellness add-on is selected. Any care abroad is eligible as long as performed by an approved/recognized veterinarian; however, non-medical or overdue/unsupervised procedures are never reimbursed.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical/Clinical Exclusions | - Pre-existing conditions (any illness/injury noticed/treated in the 12 months prior to policy start or during waiting period) - Chronic conditions existing before policy start - Experimental, holistic, or alternative medicine (unless vet-prescribed for covered condition) - Elective/cosmetic surgery - Cruciate ligament/meniscus injuries in first 12 months (unless continuous cover) - Reproduction, pregnancy, breeding or their complications - Food/diet unless specifically prescribed - Supplements, non-FDA/EPA approved drugs |
| Non-Medical Service Exclusions | - Boarding, kenneling, pet hotels, or transportation - Grooming, bathing, nail trims, or cosmetic procedures - Toys, accessories, pet clothing - Tags, licenses, taxes, membership or administrative fees - Pet insurance club fees - Any cost not directly arising from medical care prescribed by a licensed veterinarian |
| Geographic Exclusions | - No reimbursement for care not performed by a licensed/approved veterinarian (US or abroad) - Acts/services performed outside recognized veterinary settings remain excluded - Foreign care is accepted only if equivalent vet accreditation standards are met |
| Identification/Administrative | - Services without official/eligible invoice or without proof of payment - Claims submitted after deadline (typically over 90 days after incident start) - Any expense covered or reimbursed by another insurer, or in excess of chosen coverage limits |
| Preventive/Wellness (by default) | - Routine/preventive care (vaccines, annual health checks, deworming, dental cleaning, sterilization, etc.) unless "wellness" option is specifically purchased |
- Chronic conditions existing before policy start
- Experimental, holistic, or alternative medicine (unless vet-prescribed for covered condition)
- Elective/cosmetic surgery
- Cruciate ligament/meniscus injuries in first 12 months (unless continuous cover)
- Reproduction, pregnancy, breeding or their complications
- Food/diet unless specifically prescribed
- Supplements, non-FDA/EPA approved drugs
- Grooming, bathing, nail trims, or cosmetic procedures
- Toys, accessories, pet clothing
- Tags, licenses, taxes, membership or administrative fees
- Pet insurance club fees
- Any cost not directly arising from medical care prescribed by a licensed veterinarian
- Acts/services performed outside recognized veterinary settings remain excluded
- Foreign care is accepted only if equivalent vet accreditation standards are met
- Claims submitted after deadline (typically over 90 days after incident start)
- Any expense covered or reimbursed by another insurer, or in excess of chosen coverage limits
Nationwide rates
Nationwide positions itself at a median to slightly above-average price point in the US pet insurance market. Premiums are generally justified by comprehensive core medical coverage, flexible add-ons for wellness and preventive care, and reimbursing policies that remain accessible even as pets age—competitive features compared to more restrictive or basic insurers. While franchises remain reasonable and not the lowest, included services like a 24/7 vet helpline, broad vet access, and additional perks contribute to the overall value, supporting higher retention for owners seeking all-in-one coverage. Pricing is typically not the cheapest, especially when wellness options are added, but costs remain controlled and transparent for mainstream needs. Overall, Nationwide best suits owners who want long-term coverage flexibility and robust core protection, without targeting the budget or ultra-premium segment.
Take the time to compare Nationwide rates and coverage options to secure the best value for your pet’s age and needs.
| Core Medical Plan | Core + Wellness (Medical + Preventive) | |
|---|---|---|
| Young Cat (2–4 yrs) | $17/mo | $32/mo |
| Senior Cat (7–8 yrs) | $26/mo | $45/mo |
| Small Breed Dog | $30/mo | $54/mo |
| Small Breed Dog (2–4 yrs) | $24/mo | $42/mo |
| Large Breed Dog (2–4 yrs) | $36/mo | $65/mo |
| Senior Dog (7–8 yrs) | $49/mo | $87/mo |
Nationwide promo codes
| Nationwide promo codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe promo code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest codes, visit our comparison of the best pet insurance plans.
How much will I be reimbursed with Nationwide?
| Type of Care | Average Cost (USD) | Nationwide Plan A (Medical) | Nationwide Plan A + Wellness Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neutering / Spaying | $300 | Not reimbursed Reste à charge: $300 (hors franchise) | Reimbursed $150 Reste à charge: $150 (hors franchise & plafond wellness) |
| Annual Vaccinations | $100 | Not reimbursed Reste à charge: $100 (hors franchise) | Reimbursed $100 Reste à charge: $0 (hors franchise & plafond wellness) |
| Ear Infection (consultation + treatment) | $250 | Reimbursed $180* Reste à charge: $70 (hors franchise) | Reimbursed $180* Reste à charge: $70 (hors franchise) |
| Fractured Leg (X-ray + surgery) | $2,500 | Reimbursed $1,800* Reste à charge: $700 (hors franchise) | Reimbursed $1,800* Reste à charge: $700 (hors franchise) |
| Routine Dental Cleaning | $200 | Not reimbursed Reste à charge: $200 (hors franchise) | Reimbursed $150 Reste à charge: $50 (hors franchise & plafond wellness) |
Reste à charge: $300 (hors franchise)
Reste à charge: $150 (hors franchise & plafond wellness)
Reste à charge: $100 (hors franchise)
Reste à charge: $0 (hors franchise & plafond wellness)
Reste à charge: $70 (hors franchise)
Reste à charge: $70 (hors franchise)
Reste à charge: $700 (hors franchise)
Reste à charge: $700 (hors franchise)
Reste à charge: $200 (hors franchise)
Reste à charge: $50 (hors franchise & plafond wellness)
*Estimation based on a typical 80% reimbursement rate; the actual percentage may vary by contract.
Note: All reimbursements shown are before subtracting the annual deductible/franchise and are subject to plan limits.
The “Wellness Option” has annual caps for prevention benefits (amounts shown based on commonly observed limits).
Nationwide Assistance
Nationwide offers 24/7 VetHelpline® access, which provides valuable immediate veterinary guidance by phone for policyholders facing urgent questions about their pet’s health.
Claims can be submitted quickly online or via mobile with expedited payment direct to bank accounts, but unlike competitors such as Trupanion or CareCredit, there’s no advance payment at the vet’s office—owners pay upfront, which can be a limitation in emergencies.
There is no mention of dedicated flexible payment plans for premiums, and installment payments carry additional administrative fees, which may be less attractive for households managing tight budgets.
The mobile experience is functional and allows fast claims, yet app usability and ratings are not best-in-class compared to some peers.
Nationwide does not limit care to a network, allowing freedom to visit any licensed veterinarian worldwide, although there’s no partner clinic program with negotiated direct billing, and assistance abroad is available but not detailed for long-term stays.
| Assistance Nationwide | Disponible ? | Détails |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment (at the clinic) | ❌ | No advance payment service like Payvet or CareCredit. |
| Flexible premium payment options | ❌ | No specific split-payment or interest-free installments; premium collection in one or multiple installments with extra fees. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | Fast online and mobile claims with direct reimbursement. |
| Digital claim processing | ✅ | Claims submitted via website or app; direct deposit supported. |
| 24/7 veterinary emergency helpline | ✅ | VetHelpline® provides 24/7 telephonic support for all policyholders. |
| Network of clinics/vets | ❌ | No official partner network—clients may visit any licensed vet. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Care available at any licensed vet worldwide, for temporary trips; no clear details for long-term residence abroad. |
Customer feedback on Nationwide
| Review Site | Rating and Number of Reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.4 / 5 (1,177 reviews) |
We analyzed the reviews from the above-mentioned site. On the positive side, customers who have taken out a policy with Nationwide for their pet often mention:
- An excellent and attentive customer service: many reviews praise the professionalism, empathy, and dedication of agents who are described as friendly, responsive, and helpful, with clear communication and personal follow-up.
- Fast and straightforward claims process: the procedures for joining and filing claims are frequently highlighted for their simplicity and speed, including positive experiences even with sensitive situations such as end-of-life care.
- Loyalty and trust in the company: some customers state they have remained with Nationwide for years, even after comparing with cheaper competitors, due to consistent and reliable experiences.
On the negative side:
- Significant increases in premiums without prior consent: many reviewers express frustration over steep, sometimes abrupt hikes in insurance payments, often with no clear explanation.
- Difficulties during enrollment and confusion about policy dates: issues reported include unclear communication about waiting periods and policy start.
- Perceived unjustified or abrupt cancellations: some customers recount policies being terminated seemingly without cause or adequate notice, even after several years with the company.
- Insufficient documentation and lack of paper documents: certain users report challenges obtaining clear, detailed paperwork or prefer to receive physical documents rather than digital-only communications.
- Complexity or ambiguity in policy wording: the formulation of some contracts or covered items is sometimes found confusing, leading to misunderstandings.
- Lack of localized information about partner veterinarians: some customers encounter issues identifying which veterinarians are in-network or covered in their area.
How to contact Nationwide?
| Nationwide 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. You can also get a quote directly at https://www.petinsurance.com/. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | - Log in to your online customer space at www.petinsurance.com to submit and track your reimbursement request. - Mobile app available. - Documents required: claim form, detailed invoices, proof of payment. - For any questions, contact customer service: • Tel.: 1-800-540-2016 or 1-714-989-0555 • Email: [email protected] - Reimbursement is generally quick via direct deposit or check (a few days to 2 weeks after validation). |
| To obtain proof of insurance | - Request via your personal area on www.petinsurance.com. - Or contact customer service: • Tel.: 1-800-540-2016 • Email: [email protected] |
| To contact assistance | - 24/7 veterinary assistance for policyholders via VetHelpline®. - Call customer service for any question (information, emergency, advice): • Tel.: 1-800-540-2016 - Email: [email protected] |
| To cancel my contract | - Cancellation at any time from your customer area (www.petinsurance.com) or by emailing [email protected]. - You can also send a letter to: P.O. Box 183143, Columbus, OH 43218, United States. - No notice required; pro-rated refund for the uncovered period. - Include your personal information, contract number, and clearly state your intention to cancel. - Note: in case of a recent claim, check the conditions according to your State. |
You can also get a quote directly at https://www.petinsurance.com/.
- Mobile app available.
- Documents required: claim form, detailed invoices, proof of payment.
- For any questions, contact customer service:
• Tel.: 1-800-540-2016 or 1-714-989-0555
• Email: [email protected]
- Reimbursement is generally quick via direct deposit or check (a few days to 2 weeks after validation).
- Or contact customer service:
• Tel.: 1-800-540-2016
• Email: [email protected]
- Call customer service for any question (information, emergency, advice):
• Tel.: 1-800-540-2016
- Email: [email protected]
- You can also send a letter to:
P.O. Box 183143, Columbus, OH 43218, United States.
- No notice required; pro-rated refund for the uncovered period.
- Include your personal information, contract number, and clearly state your intention to cancel.
- Note: in case of a recent claim, check the conditions according to your State.
FAQ
Do I have to pay the vet bills upfront with Nationwide?
With Nationwide, you typically need to pay your veterinarian directly at the time of service. Afterward, you submit your claim (online, mobile, or by mail), and Nationwide reimburses you for covered expenses, according to your plan’s terms. There is currently no automatic direct payment or “pay-vet” system—reimbursement is the standard process.
How do I cancel my Nationwide pet insurance policy?
You can cancel your policy at any time through your online account or by contacting customer service. There is no long-term commitment or penalty for early cancellation. Just provide your policy details and a written request; if required, attach supporting documentation such as proof of pet transfer or loss. Any unused premium may be refunded on a prorated basis.
What does Nationwide pet insurance cover and what are the main exclusions?
Nationwide offers coverage for accidents, illnesses, and (as an option) preventive care like wellness exams and vaccines. Common exclusions include pre-existing conditions, non-medical costs (grooming, boarding, taxes), breeding procedures, and cosmetic surgeries. Always review your policy documents for specific inclusions and exclusions based on your chosen plan.
Can I use my own veterinarian with Nationwide?
Yes, you can visit any licensed veterinarian in the U.S. or even abroad with Nationwide pet insurance. There are no network restrictions, so you have full freedom to choose specialists, emergency clinics, or general vets. Just make sure you obtain a detailed invoice to submit for reimbursement.
How quickly will I be reimbursed after submitting a claim?
Nationwide aims to process claims promptly, often within a few business days once all documents are received. You can track the status online, and choose reimbursement by direct deposit for faster payment. Incomplete or missing information may delay the process, so be sure to submit detailed invoices and fill out all claim forms accurately.
Do I have to pay the vet bills upfront with Nationwide?
With Nationwide, you typically need to pay your veterinarian directly at the time of service. Afterward, you submit your claim (online, mobile, or by mail), and Nationwide reimburses you for covered expenses, according to your plan’s terms. There is currently no automatic direct payment or “pay-vet” system—reimbursement is the standard process.
How do I cancel my Nationwide pet insurance policy?
You can cancel your policy at any time through your online account or by contacting customer service. There is no long-term commitment or penalty for early cancellation. Just provide your policy details and a written request; if required, attach supporting documentation such as proof of pet transfer or loss. Any unused premium may be refunded on a prorated basis.
What does Nationwide pet insurance cover and what are the main exclusions?
Nationwide offers coverage for accidents, illnesses, and (as an option) preventive care like wellness exams and vaccines. Common exclusions include pre-existing conditions, non-medical costs (grooming, boarding, taxes), breeding procedures, and cosmetic surgeries. Always review your policy documents for specific inclusions and exclusions based on your chosen plan.
Can I use my own veterinarian with Nationwide?
Yes, you can visit any licensed veterinarian in the U.S. or even abroad with Nationwide pet insurance. There are no network restrictions, so you have full freedom to choose specialists, emergency clinics, or general vets. Just make sure you obtain a detailed invoice to submit for reimbursement.
How quickly will I be reimbursed after submitting a claim?
Nationwide aims to process claims promptly, often within a few business days once all documents are received. You can track the status online, and choose reimbursement by direct deposit for faster payment. Incomplete or missing information may delay the process, so be sure to submit detailed invoices and fill out all claim forms accurately.
