Safeco Pet Insurance 2025: Complete Review, Coverage, Pros & Cons
Our expert's opinion on Safeco
Safeco Pet Health Insurance, issued by Safeco Insurance Company of America and backed by Liberty Mutual (a Fortune 100 company, 6th largest US personal lines insurer in 2019), delivers one of the most flexible, modular pet policies in the US market, combining comprehensive accident, illness, hereditary/congenital, alternative medicine, behavioral, and wellness/preventative benefits under a single plan framework.The flagship offer includes a $10,000 annual maximum, 90% reimbursement on all medical and alternative/behavioral care (with a $250 annual deductible), and a 100% reimbursement for wellness and preventative care up to set per-item limits, along with optional endorsements to customize coverage for nearly every pet owner profile.Compared to top competitors, Safeco distinguishes itself by offering a highly customizable suite (rarely seen limits on alternative therapy, robust wellness, hereditary and hip dysplasia coverage) at a mid-to-upper range price point, targeting those seeking broad coverage with generous reimbursements.Its policy is particularly well suited for purebreds, young or middle-aged pets, owners seeking high reimbursement rates and alternative medicine, and those wanting extensive wellness/preventative care without a large outlay for every claim.Financially, Safeco's parent is Liberty Mutual (2019 revenue: $43.2 billion+; direct written premiums rank 6th), and while there are limited Trustpilot reviews (<100 public reviews as of 2024), claims are administered online or via app with standard processing observed at 10–30 days for most claims, in line with major US providers.
- ✅90% reimbursement with only $250 annual deductible
- ✅Annual maximum of $10,000 covers major vet bills
- ✅Robust wellness/preventative coverage, 100% up to schedule limits
- ✅Covers hereditary, congenital, hip dysplasia (with endorsement)
- ✅Alternative medicine and behavioral therapy included
- ✅Customizable modular endorsements for tailored protection
- ✅Strong financial backing: Liberty Mutual Fortune 100 group
- ❌No unlimited annual coverage option
- ❌Must purchase via independent agent, not direct
- ❌Some exclusions for age, breed-specific, and chronic conditions
- ❌Wellness coverage limited by per-service caps
- ❌No instant/paperless claims; moderate digital process
Score- ✅90% reimbursement with only $250 annual deductible
- ✅Annual maximum of $10,000 covers major vet bills
- ✅Robust wellness/preventative coverage, 100% up to schedule limits
- ✅Covers hereditary, congenital, hip dysplasia (with endorsement)
- ✅Alternative medicine and behavioral therapy included
- ✅Customizable modular endorsements for tailored protection
- ✅Strong financial backing: Liberty Mutual Fortune 100 group
Our expert's opinion on Safeco
- ✅90% reimbursement with only $250 annual deductible
- ✅Annual maximum of $10,000 covers major vet bills
- ✅Robust wellness/preventative coverage, 100% up to schedule limits
- ✅Covers hereditary, congenital, hip dysplasia (with endorsement)
- ✅Alternative medicine and behavioral therapy included
- ✅Customizable modular endorsements for tailored protection
- ✅Strong financial backing: Liberty Mutual Fortune 100 group
- ❌No unlimited annual coverage option
- ❌Must purchase via independent agent, not direct
- ❌Some exclusions for age, breed-specific, and chronic conditions
- ❌Wellness coverage limited by per-service caps
- ❌No instant/paperless claims; moderate digital process
Score- ✅90% reimbursement with only $250 annual deductible
- ✅Annual maximum of $10,000 covers major vet bills
- ✅Robust wellness/preventative coverage, 100% up to schedule limits
- ✅Covers hereditary, congenital, hip dysplasia (with endorsement)
- ✅Alternative medicine and behavioral therapy included
- ✅Customizable modular endorsements for tailored protection
- ✅Strong financial backing: Liberty Mutual Fortune 100 group
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance specialists review the terms and pricing of insurance policies available in the market every year to provide you with reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this thorough approach, hundreds of thousands of Americans trust us each month to help guide them through their most important financial decisions.
Safeco Guarantees
Safeco offers a highly customizable pet insurance solution, structured via endorsements that let policyholders tailor coverage for accidents, illnesses, hereditary/congenital conditions, alternative therapies, behavioral care, and robust wellness/preventive benefits.
The core plan includes a strong 90% reimbursement rate after a $250 annual deductible and a substantial $10,000 annual aggregate limit, with wellness and preventive care fully covered (100%) up to set annual caps and no deductible.
Strengths include comprehensive coverage for hereditary and hip conditions (often excluded elsewhere), endorsement-based modularity, and broad inclusion of alternative and behavioral therapies when opted.
Notable weaknesses are the lack of lifetime coverage commitment, per-claim annual maximums that may limit reimbursement in major cases, and continued exclusions for select chronic or congenital conditions, obesity, and dental work not linked to an incident.
Prospective policyholders benefit from Safeco’s clear administrative structure, but should ensure endorsements match expected needs, as some exclusions remain unless endorsed.
| Name of coverage | Safeco Pet Insurance (endorsed plan) |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Modular, endorsement-based; accident-and-illness core + add-ons |
| Type of coverage | Accident, illness, hereditary/congenital, hip, wellness, alt. medicine |
| Animals covered | Dogs, cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 90% (core/endorsements); 100% (wellness/preventive, up to fixed caps) |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $10,000/year (all causes and benefits) |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | $250 annual |
| Age limits for enrollment (dogs/cats) | Not Communicated (N.C.) |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | Physical exam required before inception |
| Waiting period (illness) | 14 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 14 days |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ❌ |
| Vet consultations (regular + ER) | ✅ (subject to deductible/90% reimbursement) |
| Medications | ✅ (with vet prescription; 90% reimbursement) |
| Hospitalization | ✅ (included, up to annual max) |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ (90% reimbursement, subject to annual/deductible) |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, labs) | ✅ (covered for diagnosis/treatment, 90% reimbursement) |
| Dental care (scaling, procedures) | ✅ only if incident-related (injury/illness); wellness: $100/yr for routine cleaning |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, etc.) | ✅ with endorsement; annual wellness/prev. limits per benefit |
| Alternative medicine (acupuncture, etc.) | ✅ with endorsement; therapies prescribed/referred by vet |
| Travel coverage (countries/duration) | USA, US territories, Canada |
| Civil liability | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | ✅ up to $250 per incident |
| Death & cremation coverage | Accidental death: $150 fixed, End of life expenses: up to $250/incident |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ❌ |
- Endorsements are necessary to access coverage for hereditary/congenital, hip dysplasia, preventive/wellness care, and holistic/behavioral therapy.
- Most benefits subject to a $10,000 annual max per pet.
- Claims for end-of-life or accidental death expenses must be submitted within 90 days of the event; all other claims within 180 days.
- Maximum of 5 behavioral therapy sessions/year if endorsed.
- Preventive care has sub-limits: e.g., $100 for dental cleaning, $80 routine exams, $60 vaccines, per year.
To get the best deal on Safeco pet insurance, compare all your plan options to match your coverage needs and budget.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Safeco Exclusions
Safeco pet insurance exclusions are broadly in line with industry standards but include several notable points.
Pre-existing conditions, injuries or illnesses caused by neglect, and cosmetic or elective procedures are not reimbursed, with the added detail that certain orthopedic conditions, obesity (unless due to a covered illness), and some hereditary and congenital disorders are only covered if specific endorsements are purchased.
Routine, wellness, and preventive care are excluded unless the corresponding endorsement is added, and there are explicit exclusions for war, epidemics, and pets used for commercial purposes.
Dental, parasite, and age-related eye/ear conditions are excluded unless linked to a qualifying accident or illness.
Overall, Safeco’s practice of lifting exclusions via modular endorsements makes it somewhat more flexible than some competitors, but policyholders need to actively select the endorsements that match their needs.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | • Pre-existing conditions • Injuries/illnesses from neglect or owner’s acts • Cosmetic/elective procedures • Obesity (if not secondary to another covered condition) • Certain orthopedic (OCD, osteochondrosis, arthritis, spondylosis), luxating patella • Gastropexy (except for bloat) • Age-related eye/ear changes (over 6 years) • Parasite diagnostics/treatment • Dental care not linked to incident • Unsterilized-related conditions |
| Preventive care/wellness | • Routine check-ups, vaccinations, spay/neuter, preventive medication (unless wellness endorsement applies) |
| Alternative/behavioral care | • Holistic, alternative, and behavioral therapies unless alternative therapy endorsement is purchased |
| Geographic exclusions | • Treatment outside the US, US territories, and Canada |
| Purpose/use exclusions | • Pets used for commercial or professional purposes (except service animals) • Participation in illegal activities or events |
| Situational/event exclusions | • War, epidemics, quarantine, government seizure |
| Identification/administrative | • Coverage for animals with incomplete or false application info • Claims submitted outside required deadlines |
• Injuries/illnesses from neglect or owner’s acts
• Cosmetic/elective procedures
• Obesity (if not secondary to another covered condition)
• Certain orthopedic (OCD, osteochondrosis, arthritis, spondylosis), luxating patella
• Gastropexy (except for bloat)
• Age-related eye/ear changes (over 6 years)
• Parasite diagnostics/treatment
• Dental care not linked to incident
• Unsterilized-related conditions
• Participation in illegal activities or events
• Claims submitted outside required deadlines
Safeco Prices
Safeco positions itself as an upper mid-range to comprehensive provider in the US pet insurance market, primarily due to its high reimbursement rate (90%), moderate $250 deductible, and wide-ranging optional endorsements (wellness, hereditary/congenital, alternative therapies).
Premiums are higher than budget competitors but reflect more robust coverage for costly vet treatments, less restrictive exclusions, and coverage of chronic or hereditary conditions if selected.
The lack of pure digital-first service keeps Safeco in the traditional insurance space, which may mean slightly higher administrative overhead compared to pure online players.
For owners looking for predictable out-of-pocket costs and access to comprehensive benefits and add-ons, Safeco represents a strong value relative to mainstream competitors.
It is especially appealing for those who value stability and customization, rather than those focused solely on minimizing monthly premiums.
Compare plans to find the best price for your pet and coverage needs.
| Safeco standard plan | |
|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $28/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $36/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $45/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $75/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $88/month |
Safeco Promo Codes
| Safeco 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.
Safeco Reimbursement Information
With Safeco’s highest-tier plan, your pet’s covered medical expenses are reimbursed at 90% after the annual deductible, so you pay much less out-of-pocket for accidents, illnesses, or even routine care (if endorsed).
Allergic Dermatitis Consultation and Treatment Costs
Total vet costs: $200 (exam, testing, prescription)
Deductible to subtract: $250 (assuming it’s your first claim this year)
Eligible amount: $200 – $250 = $0 (deductible not yet met; no reimbursement)
Out-of-pocket cost: $200
ℹ️ Once the $250 deductible is met, all additional covered costs are reimbursed at 90% for the remainder of the year.
Knee Ligament Surgery Claim
Knee ligament surgery (cruciate repair)
Total vet costs: $2,500 (surgery, hospital stay, medications)
Deductible already met earlier in the year
Eligible amount at 90% reimbursement: $2,500 × 90% = $2,250
Out-of-pocket cost: $250
👉 You receive $2,250 back from Safeco.
ℹ️ Only the deductible applies once per plan year. Yearly cap: $10,000 maximum reimbursable.
Annual Preventive Care Package
Total annual wellness costs: $320 (vaccines, dental cleaning, heartworm, flea/tick meds)
No deductible applies for wellness
Reimbursement: $320 × 100% = $320 (up to category limits; e.g., $100 dental, $60 vaccines, etc.)
Out-of-pocket cost: $0, unless limits exceeded per category
ℹ️ Preventive care reimbursements are limited to scheduled annual maximums per type of service.
Safeco Assistance
Safeco offers policyholders practical digital tools such as a mobile app and a fully paperless claims process, which streamline reimbursement and policy management for pet owners.
However, Safeco does not provide an advance payment option (like Carecredit or Payvet), so owners must pay veterinary bills upfront before reimbursement.
While payment facilities via installment are available for premiums, there is no 24/7 emergency vet hotline or teleconsultation service, which could leave owners unsupported in urgent medical situations.
Safeco does not operate a partner veterinary clinic network, but coverage applies in the US, US territories, and Canada, supporting owners who travel within North America.
| Assistance Safeco | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment service available. Owners pay vets directly, then file for reimbursement. |
| Payment facilities | ✅ | Premiums may be paid by installment. Subject to underwriting and state conditions. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | iOS/Android available. Allows claim submission, bill payment, policy docs. UX rating not specified. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims can be submitted fully online or via the app. No paper filing is required. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No 24/7 helpline or teleconsultation. Urgent assistance not provided by insurer. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No network—policyholders may use any licensed vet in covered territories. No preferred provider system. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Insured in US, US territories, and Canada. No info on coverage outside North America. No time limits noted. |
Owners pay vets directly, then file for reimbursement.
Subject to underwriting and state conditions.
Allows claim submission, bill payment, policy docs.
UX rating not specified.
No paper filing is required.
Urgent assistance not provided by insurer.
No preferred provider system.
No info on coverage outside North America.
No time limits noted.
Customer Reviews of Safeco
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | N.C. |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Safeco for their pets often mention:
- ✅ An accessible and easy mobile app for managing policies and submitting claims.
- ✅ Flexible payment options and the ability to bundle multiple insurance products.
- ✅ Clear and transparent coverage terms, plus straightforward cancellation processes.
- ✅ Reliable and stable backing by Liberty Mutual, lending confidence to policyholders.
Contacting Safeco: A Guide
| Safeco 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 | File your claim online via the Safeco claims portal at https://fileaclaim.safeco.com/ or using the Safeco mobile app. Required documents: completed claim form, itemized vet invoice, proof of payment, and provider contact details. Track claim status online at https://customer.safeco.com/accountmanager/homepage or in the app. Claims must generally be filed within 180 days of treatment. Payments are made by direct deposit or check; processing typically takes 5–10 business days after approval. For help, call 1-800-332-3226. Safeco Insurance Company of America, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Log in to your Safeco customer account at https://customer.safeco.com/accountmanager/documents to download your insurance certificate. Alternatively, request it from your independent Safeco agent or call customer service at 1-800-332-3226. Safeco Insurance Company of America, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116. |
| To contact assistance | For any assistance, including digital support or general inquiries, contact your independent Safeco agent. For customer service, call 1-800-332-3226 (Mon–Fri, standard hours). Mail: Safeco Insurance Company of America, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116. No emergency veterinary hotline is available. |
| To cancel my policy | Contact your independent agent or Safeco customer service at 1-800-332-3226. Policy cancellation can be requested by phone or in writing; no notice period required unless specified in your policy. Send written requests to Safeco Insurance Company of America, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116. If within the 30-day free look period and no claims filed, you are eligible for a full refund. May require your policy number and a signed cancellation request if requested. |
Required documents: completed claim form, itemized vet invoice, proof of payment, and provider contact details.
Track claim status online at https://customer.safeco.com/accountmanager/homepage or in the app.
Claims must generally be filed within 180 days of treatment.
Payments are made by direct deposit or check; processing typically takes 5–10 business days after approval.
For help, call 1-800-332-3226.
Safeco Insurance Company of America, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116.
Alternatively, request it from your independent Safeco agent or call customer service at 1-800-332-3226.
Safeco Insurance Company of America, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116.
For customer service, call 1-800-332-3226 (Mon–Fri, standard hours).
Mail: Safeco Insurance Company of America, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116.
No emergency veterinary hotline is available.
Policy cancellation can be requested by phone or in writing; no notice period required unless specified in your policy.
Send written requests to Safeco Insurance Company of America, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116.
If within the 30-day free look period and no claims filed, you are eligible for a full refund. May require your policy number and a signed cancellation request if requested.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Safeco?
Yes, you must pay the veterinary bill out-of-pocket at the time of service. Safeco does not offer advance payment or third-party direct payment to veterinarians. After your visit, you file a claim online or via the Safeco app. Once your claim is approved, Safeco reimburses you directly for eligible expenses, typically by direct deposit or check.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Safeco?
You can cancel your Safeco policy at any time by contacting your independent Safeco agent or the customer service team by phone or in writing. There is no required notice period unless specified in your contract, and a simple verbal or written request is generally sufficient. If you cancel within the 30-day free look period and no claims have been filed, you'll receive a full refund of any premium paid. For later cancellations, a prorated refund applies for any unused portion.
What does Safeco pet insurance cover?
Safeco pet insurance covers a wide range of veterinary expenses, including accidents, illness, hereditary and congenital conditions, and—if chosen—wellness and preventive care. Coverage may also include exams, surgery, hospitalization, medications, diagnostic tests, alternative therapies, and behavioral therapy (with endorsements). The reimbursed amount and the annual maximum depend on the plan and any selected optional benefits.
Are preventive and wellness care included in all Safeco plans?
No, preventive and wellness care, such as vaccinations, dental cleanings, or wellness checkups, are not automatically included. These benefits can be added by purchasing the optional wellness and preventive care endorsement. Coverage limits and eligible services for this add-on are clearly outlined in your policy documents.
How do I file a claim and how long does reimbursement take?
You can file a claim online through your Safeco account, with the mobile app, or by sending required documents by mail. Submit a completed claim form, itemized veterinary invoices, and proof of payment. Claims should be filed within 180 days of the treatment date. Once approved, Safeco aims to reimburse you within 5 to 10 business days via direct deposit or check.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Safeco?
Yes, you must pay the veterinary bill out-of-pocket at the time of service. Safeco does not offer advance payment or third-party direct payment to veterinarians. After your visit, you file a claim online or via the Safeco app. Once your claim is approved, Safeco reimburses you directly for eligible expenses, typically by direct deposit or check.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Safeco?
You can cancel your Safeco policy at any time by contacting your independent Safeco agent or the customer service team by phone or in writing. There is no required notice period unless specified in your contract, and a simple verbal or written request is generally sufficient. If you cancel within the 30-day free look period and no claims have been filed, you'll receive a full refund of any premium paid. For later cancellations, a prorated refund applies for any unused portion.
What does Safeco pet insurance cover?
Safeco pet insurance covers a wide range of veterinary expenses, including accidents, illness, hereditary and congenital conditions, and—if chosen—wellness and preventive care. Coverage may also include exams, surgery, hospitalization, medications, diagnostic tests, alternative therapies, and behavioral therapy (with endorsements). The reimbursed amount and the annual maximum depend on the plan and any selected optional benefits.
Are preventive and wellness care included in all Safeco plans?
No, preventive and wellness care, such as vaccinations, dental cleanings, or wellness checkups, are not automatically included. These benefits can be added by purchasing the optional wellness and preventive care endorsement. Coverage limits and eligible services for this add-on are clearly outlined in your policy documents.
How do I file a claim and how long does reimbursement take?
You can file a claim online through your Safeco account, with the mobile app, or by sending required documents by mail. Submit a completed claim form, itemized veterinary invoices, and proof of payment. Claims should be filed within 180 days of the treatment date. Once approved, Safeco aims to reimburse you within 5 to 10 business days via direct deposit or check.
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