Is USAA Pet Insurance Worth It? Review 2025
Our Expert's Opinion on USAA
USAA Pet Insurance, underwritten by American Modern Home (A+ AM Best) and managed by Embrace since 2014, stands out for its highly customizable coverage, competitive pricing, and robust financial backing. The plan offers flexible combinations: annual deductibles ($100–$1,000), reimbursement rates (70%, 80%, or 90%), and annual claim limits ($2,000 to unlimited), catering to a wide range of needs and budgets. Compared to top competitors such as PetsBest, ASPCA, or Figo, USAA is particularly appealing to USAA members due to up to 25% exclusive discounts, rapid digital claims, and the availability of a routine care add-on. USAA is especially well-suited for young pets (6+ weeks), multi-pet homes seeking flexible benefits, and owners wanting high or unlimited annual limits, but note stricter preexisting condition and orthopedic waiting policies. The add-on “Wellness Rewards” budget supports routine care, a rarity among US insurers. USAA (2023: >8,200 Trustpilot reviews, average 4.0/5) and Embrace combine to deliver solid client satisfaction and recognized stability (USAA: $36B+ annual premium in P&C). Average claims are reimbursed in 10–15 days—slower than some direct-pay peers—while customer support is considered empathetic and expert. USAA's deep military roots confirm its reliability, although strict enrollment requirements (age, medical exam, US address) and stricter exclusion policies should be reviewed closely for senior or pre-diagnosed pets.
- Highly customizable: deductible, rate, and annual limit choices
- Accident-only plan available for seniors, no age limit for accidents
- Wellness care add-on for routine/preventive expenses
- Exclusive USAA discounts up to 25%, plus multi-pet and annual pay savings
- Covers many chronic, genetic, and breed-specific conditions
- Empathetic and knowledgeable US-based customer service
- 30-day money-back guarantee for new enrollments
- Strict preexisting condition and orthopedic waiting period rules
- Reimbursement averages 10–15 days, sometimes longer
- Veterinary exam required prior to or shortly after enrollment
- Routine care, prescription, and exam coverage cost extra
- Dental coverage capped ($1,000/year), limited for illness
- USAA Warranties
- USAA Exclusions
- USAA rates
- USAA support
- Customer feedback on USAA
- How to contact USAA?
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews market policy terms and pricing every year to provide you with reliable, unbiased analysis. Thanks to this commitment, hundreds of thousands of users across the US trust us each month to help guide them through their most important financial decisions.
USAA Warranties
USAA, through Embrace, offers modular pet insurance with two main formulas—Accident & Illness and Accident-Only—and an optional Wellness Rewards add-on for routine/preventive care. All plans are highly customizable regarding reimbursement rate (70%, 80%, or 90%), annual deductible ($100–$1,000), and annual reimbursement limit ($2,000 to unlimited). Key strengths include a broad medical scope (chronic, hereditary, orthopedic, dental up to $1,000/year, alternative therapies), multi-pet discounts, and permanent lifelong coverage once enrolled. USAA stands out by allowing full policy adaptation per pet and exclusive member-only pricing with up to 25% discount, but lacks integrated preventive care (must add Wellness), imposes a strict exclusion of pre-existing/bilateral conditions, and has notably long six-month orthopedic waiting periods. Age acceptance is robust—no upper limit for Accident-Only, but Illness coverage is limited to pets enrolling before age 15, and all require a recent wellness exam. Exclusions include preventive/routine care (if not adding Wellness), breeding, cosmetic/elective procedures, and therapeutic diets except for feline hyperthyroidism.
| Name of Guarantee | Accident & Illness (customizable) | Accident-Only | Wellness Rewards (optional add-on) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Positioning of the formula | Core plan, full scope | Budget, basic event coverage | Prevention/routine, add-on only |
| Coverage type: accident, accident & illness, etc. | Accident & illness | Accidents only | Routine/preventive (annual check, vaccine, spay, etc.) |
| Covered animals | Dogs and cats living with policyholder | Dogs and cats | Same |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | Choice of 70%, 80%, or 90% after deductible | Choice of 70%, 80%, or 90% | Not applicable (works as annual benefit pool; $250–$650) |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $2,000, $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, or unlimited | Same options | Add-on: $250, $450, $650 annual preventive pool |
| Annual / per-incident deductible | Annual: $100, $250, $500, $750, or $1,000 | Same options | Not applicable |
| Min/max age for enrollment (dogs) | 6 weeks–14 years for illness; no upper limit accident-only | 6 weeks+; no upper limit | N/A |
| Min/max age for enrollment (cats) | 6 weeks–14 years for illness; no upper limit accident-only | 6 weeks+; no upper limit | N/A |
| Medical questionnaire/Exam required? | Vet exam required: within previous 12 months or within 14 days | Same | No, but routine exam for reimbursement |
| Waiting period for illness | 14 days | Not covered | None |
| Waiting period for accident | 2 days | 2 days | None |
| Lifetime guarantee once insured? | Yes, if enrolled before age max | Yes | N/A |
| Vet consultations (general, ER, specialty) | Covered | Covered (accident only) | Covered if labeled “wellness” (annual checkup) |
| Medications | Prescribed meds, covered with main plan | Covered if required by accident | Supplements included; prescription diet usually excluded |
| Hospitalization | Covered | Covered (accident only) | Not covered |
| Ambulance fees | Covered in emergencies | Covered in emergencies | Not covered |
| Surgery, anesthesia | Covered | Covered (accident only) | Not covered |
| CT, MRI, ultrasound scans | Covered | Covered (accident only) | Not covered |
| Laboratory exams | Covered | Covered (accident only) | Annual health screening included |
| Radiotherapy | Covered | Covered (accident only, if accident-induced) | Not covered |
| Dental: injuries | Covered, up to $1,000/yr (accident and illness) | Covered, up to $1,000/yr | Dental cleaning/routine covered by Wellness only |
| Dental: cleaning ("prophylaxis") | Not covered | Not covered | Covered (preventive allowance) |
| Preventive care allowance for vaccines, deworming, spay/neuter, etc. | Not covered | Not covered | Yes: $250/$450/$650 per year depending on tier |
| Alternative therapies (acupuncture etc.) | Covered if prescribed for accident/illness | Covered if accident-indicated | Possible for preventive, see plan limits |
| Therapeutic foods | Generally excluded (except feline hyperthyroid Rx diet) | Same | Supplements included; prescription foods excluded |
| Covered area / travel | All US; global in-force during travel | Same | Same |
| Death / cremation | Euthanasia for medical cause covered, burial/cremation NC | Same | End-of-life included if related to wellness/procedure |
| Euthanasia | Covered if medically necessary | Covered if accident-triggered | Covered for end-of-life if in scope |
| Theft or loss, search fees | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Boarding costs | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
NC = Not Covered or Not Communicated (where insufficient detail in official sources)
Good to know
- A single accidental foreign object removal per year is covered (excluding repeated incidents).
- Orthopedic conditions (like cruciate ligament rupture) require a 6-month waiting period, but can be reduced if a special vet exam is done after enrollment.
- Dental disease annual payout is capped at $1,000; routine dental work is only via Wellness.
- Deductible reduces by $50 each claim-free year.
- Multi-pet and active military/employer discounts available.
- If you increase coverage or add pets, waiting periods restart for the new risk.
- Claims must be filed during coverage or within 60 days of policy end; reimbursement typically 10–15 days.
- There’s a $25 one-time enrollment fee per policy.
- Exclusions are strict: pre-existing, hereditary, and bilateral conditions are excluded if symptoms/diagnosis predate coverage; consult your pet’s medical history review for personalized exclusions.
USAA Exclusions
USAA Pet Insurance powered by Embrace applies industry-standard exclusions such as strictly denying coverage for any pre-existing conditions (diagnosed or not before the end of waiting periods), a point more thoroughly enforced than with some competitors, and also excludes most congenital and hereditary diseases unless specifically covered. A unique aspect is the blanket exclusion for both sides in case of certain bilateral conditions (e.g., cruciate ligament injuries), regardless of when the first sign appeared, as well as a notably long six-month waiting period for orthopedic issues in dogs. Dental care is strictly limited, with a $1,000 annual cap on dental disease and no coverage for routine/prophylactic procedures, and reimbursement for preventive or wellness care requires subscribing to a separate Wellness Rewards add-on: routine vaccines, neutering, and teeth cleanings are otherwise always excluded. Exclusions extend to cosmetic/elective procedures, cloning, experimental therapies, injuries caused intentionally by the policyholder or household, as well as events related to neglect, racing, cruelty, or if the animal is used in an undeclared professional activity, which are more broadly worded than with many market peers.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical Exclusions | - Pre-existing conditions (diagnosed/undiagnosed, before end of waiting period) - Certain bilateral conditions (if one side affected pre-coverage, both sides excluded) - Congenital/hereditary diseases unless covered - Routine & preventive care unless optional Wellness Rewards add-on (e.g., vaccines, annual exams, neuter/spay) - Dental disease above $1,000/yr; routine/prophylactic dental procedures - Advanced dental care (e.g. endodontics if not post-injury) - Dietary, supplements, vitamins (unless for feline hyperthyroidism) - Experimental/unproven therapies, many alternative therapies (unapproved or not directly resulting from accident/illness) - Chronic conditions where symptoms or treatment predated coverage - Behavioral modification unless medical necessity and vet-prescribed |
| Identification, Breeding, Admin | - Reproduction, gestation, whelping, nursing, fertility testing - Elective/cosmetic procedures (ear/tail cropping, declaw, dewclaw removal, unless medically necessary) - Microchipping and ID costs - DNA tests, cloning, stem cell therapy not deemed necessary - Training, boarding, grooming, show-related costs - Advertising, travel cancellation, owner hospitalization boarding - Administrative fees, prescription dispensing fees, medical record copies |
| Circumstantial/Behavioral Exclusions | - Injuries/illnesses from intentional acts/negligence by owner or persons/animals in the household - Illness/injury from fighting, racing, cruelty, neglect, prohibited or professional/working activity (if not declared) - Failure to follow vet's recommendations (e.g., refusing amputation or euthanasia for suffering) - Second and subsequent foreign body removals by anesthesia in a policy year - Infectious diseases preventable by vaccine, if vaccine not given - Claims relating to zoonotic, pandemic, nuclear, war, or government action |
| Geographic Exclusions | - Claims incurred outside active policy period or after more than 3 months continuous travel abroad (as per general Embrace policy) - Animals whose primary residency is not in the US at enrollment |
- Certain bilateral conditions (if one side affected pre-coverage, both sides excluded)
- Congenital/hereditary diseases unless covered
- Routine & preventive care unless optional Wellness Rewards add-on (e.g., vaccines, annual exams, neuter/spay)
- Dental disease above $1,000/yr; routine/prophylactic dental procedures
- Advanced dental care (e.g. endodontics if not post-injury)
- Dietary, supplements, vitamins (unless for feline hyperthyroidism)
- Experimental/unproven therapies, many alternative therapies (unapproved or not directly resulting from accident/illness)
- Chronic conditions where symptoms or treatment predated coverage
- Behavioral modification unless medical necessity and vet-prescribed
- Elective/cosmetic procedures (ear/tail cropping, declaw, dewclaw removal, unless medically necessary)
- Microchipping and ID costs
- DNA tests, cloning, stem cell therapy not deemed necessary
- Training, boarding, grooming, show-related costs
- Advertising, travel cancellation, owner hospitalization boarding
- Administrative fees, prescription dispensing fees, medical record copies
- Illness/injury from fighting, racing, cruelty, neglect, prohibited or professional/working activity (if not declared)
- Failure to follow vet's recommendations (e.g., refusing amputation or euthanasia for suffering)
- Second and subsequent foreign body removals by anesthesia in a policy year
- Infectious diseases preventable by vaccine, if vaccine not given
- Claims relating to zoonotic, pandemic, nuclear, war, or government action
- Animals whose primary residency is not in the US at enrollment
USAA rates
Overall, USAA Pet Insurance by Embrace positions itself competitively in the US pet insurance market, particularly for USAA members, thanks to exclusive discounts and high flexibility in coverage customization (deductibles, reimbursement rates, annual caps). The product offers comprehensive coverage (accident, illness, chronic conditions, selected alternative therapies) and high customizable reimbursement rates (up to 90%), but some benefits like exam fees and prescription coverage may cost extra, unlike with certain rivals. While the coverage quality is above average—with optional wellness/accident-only plans and multi-pet discounts—the strict pre-existing condition exclusions and long orthopedic wait periods can limit value for some owners. Monthly premiums are generally affordable relative to the breadth of coverage but may trend toward median to slightly above market for older pets or high-value plans given high reimbursement levels and limits. Overall, USAA is well-suited for those seeking thorough, tailored coverage at a fair price, but users focused solely on lowest cost or wanting instant, broad reimbursement on hereditary/orthopedic conditions may find more economic or specialized options elsewhere.
| Accident-Only | Accident & Illness | Accident & Illness + Routine Care* | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 yrs) | $7/month | $25/month | $40/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 yrs) | $10/month | $32/month | $47/month |
| Small dog (2–4 yrs) | $14/month | $38/month | $53/month |
| Large dog (2–4 yrs) | $16/month | $60/month | $75/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 yrs) | $23/month | $90/month | $105/month |
Compare several pet insurance offers to find the most competitive plan and secure the best value for your pet’s health needs.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!USAA promo codes
| USAA Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe promo code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. To get the latest promo codes, visit our pet insurance comparison.
How much will I be reimbursed with USAA?
| Type of care | Average price (USD) | USAA - Accident & Illness (90% reimbursement, $500 deductible, $10,000 annual limit) | USAA - Wellness Rewards (Routine Care Option, $650 annual max) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spay/Neuter Surgery | $300 | Not covered | Reimbursed $300 Remainder to pay: $0 (before deductible/annual max) |
| Annual Vaccines & Exam | $100 | Not covered | Reimbursed $100 Remainder to pay: $0 (before deductible/annual max) |
| Tumor Removal Surgery | $1,500 | Reimbursed $900 Remainder to pay: $600 (before deductible) | Not covered |
| Foreign Object Ingestion | $1,850 | Reimbursed $1,215 Remainder to pay: $635 (before deductible) | Not covered |
| Broken Bone Treatment | $2,500 | Reimbursed $1,800 Remainder to pay: $700 (before deductible) | Not covered |
Remainder to pay: $0 (before deductible/annual max)
Remainder to pay: $0 (before deductible/annual max)
Remainder to pay: $600 (before deductible)
Remainder to pay: $635 (before deductible)
Remainder to pay: $700 (before deductible)
USAA support
USAA, via Embrace, offers pet owners assistance including 24/7 veterinary phone support (PawSupport) at no extra cost, which is especially valuable when in doubt about the animal's health.
However, USAA/Embrace does not advance veterinary expenses: the insured pays the veterinarian and then submits the invoice for reimbursement, which may disadvantage some households faced with significant emergency expenses.
All claims are managed digitally through a client portal and a functional, highly rated mobile app, enabling submission and follow-up; however, the average reimbursement time (10 to 15 days, sometimes longer) remains higher than that of some direct competitors.
There is neither a network of partner clinics nor personalized orientation services in the event of an emergency: the customer is free to choose any veterinarian in the United States, but must handle all payments and logistics upfront.
Coverage remains valid during temporary stays abroad, subject to contractual conditions, but does not provide specific assistance (e.g., repatriation, coordination of care abroad).
| USAA Assistance | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance of fees | ❌ | The client pays for all care up front, then submits a reimbursement claim via the Embrace client area. No direct agreement with veterinarians. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No installment payment of veterinary bills or financing solutions offered by USAA/Embrace. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | Embrace app available on iOS and Android, average rating >4/5. Allows claims, follow-up, uploading supporting documents, and support contact. |
| Digital claims management | ✅ | Requests can be made online or via the app. Status and decision are viewable at any time. 100% digital process. |
| Veterinary emergency | ✅ | Access to PawSupport: 24/7 veterinary advice by phone or chat. No diagnostic teleconsultation or coordination with an emergency center. |
| Clinic and veterinary network | ❌ | Freedom to choose any US veterinarian or emergency center. No guidance or privileged partnership. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Worldwide coverage possible during temporary stays (excluding cases of permanent residence). Modalities according to the contract certificate. |
Customer feedback on USAA
| Site d'avis | Note et nombre d'avis |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.0 / 5 (8,241 reviews) |
| Pawlicy Advisor | 4.0 / 5 (thousands of aggregated reviews on the platform) |
| ConsumerAffairs | 4.0 / 5 (over 1,400 reviews) |
We have analyzed the reviews from the sites above. On the positive side, policyholders who have subscribed to a USAA pet insurance policy for their animal most often mention:
- The flexibility and customization of coverage: the ability to choose deductible, reimbursement level, and annual cap is highly appreciated, with many mentioning the "build-your-own" aspect as a strong point.
- The customer service’s empathy and professionalism: many users highlight the helpful, compassionate responses of support staff, especially when it comes to claims guidance or emergencies.
- The transparent communication about what is covered and excluded: clients note that the contract provides a clear outline from the start, and appreciate the free pre-policy medical review to clarify coverage for pre-existing conditions.
- The premium discounts for USAA members, multi-pet households, military affiliation, and annual payments: these discounts are valued as a real economic advantage.
- The option for routine wellness care reimbursement: the "Wellness Rewards" plan is described as a useful add-on, especially for younger pets or for those seeking to offset regular preventive costs.
- The digital tools and online submission process: the website and app are found to be convenient for submitting, tracking, and following up on claims.
On the negative side:
- The strict exclusion of pre-existing conditions is frequently cited as disappointing, with some customers feeling that borderline or curable issues are insufficiently considered for coverage.
- The reimbursement process is widely reported as slow, with some claims taking several weeks and requiring repeated follow-ups or submission of additional documentation, leading to frustration.
- The long waiting period for orthopedic conditions (six months) is seen as excessive, especially compared to some competitors.
- The requirement of a recent veterinary exam (within the previous 12 months or 14 days after enrollment) can be perceived as a hurdle, especially for pets with a complex medical history.
- The limitations on dental coverage, bilateral conditions, and hereditary or congenital illness exclusions are sometimes found to be more restrictive than expected.
- The age cap for illness coverage (14 or 15 years), preventing older pets from being covered for new illnesses, is a disappointment for some owners.
How to contact USAA?
| Service client USAA | Détails |
|---|---|
| For an online quote or to 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 your reimbursement claim online via your MyEmbrace account (https://my.embracepetinsurance.com), by email ([email protected]), by fax ((800) 238-1042), or by post: Embrace Pet Insurance Claims Department, P.O. Box 22188, Beachwood, OH 44122-0188. Attach a detailed veterinarian invoice (and, if requested, your pet’s medical records). Usual reimbursement via direct deposit or check, typically within 10–15 business days once all documents are received. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Log in to your MyEmbrace account online (https://my.embracepetinsurance.com) to download your insurance certificate instantly. For assistance, contact customer service at [email protected] or by phone at 888-967-6807. |
| To contact assistance | For contract info or questions: Call USAA/Embrace at 888-967-6807 (TTY: dial 711) or email [email protected]. For claims or emergencies: manage online (MyEmbrace) or contact claims team as above. Phone customer service for guidance Monday–Friday 6:30am–8pm, Saturday 6:30am–7pm (EST). For questions through USAA directly: 800-531-8722. |
| To cancel my contract | You can cancel at any time by phone ((800) 511-9172), email ([email protected] or [email protected]), or mail (Embrace Pet Insurance Claims Department, P.O. Box 22188, Beachwood, OH 44122-0188). No special justification needed. If cancelled within 30 days (and no claims filed), you receive a full refund; beyond that, any unused premium is refunded pro-rata. No formal notice required, but written request recommended. Include your policy number and contact details. |
Attach a detailed veterinarian invoice (and, if requested, your pet’s medical records).
Usual reimbursement via direct deposit or check, typically within 10–15 business days once all documents are received.
For assistance, contact customer service at [email protected] or by phone at 888-967-6807.
For claims or emergencies: manage online (MyEmbrace) or contact claims team as above. Phone customer service for guidance Monday–Friday 6:30am–8pm, Saturday 6:30am–7pm (EST).
For questions through USAA directly: 800-531-8722.
No special justification needed. If cancelled within 30 days (and no claims filed), you receive a full refund; beyond that, any unused premium is refunded pro-rata.
No formal notice required, but written request recommended.
Include your policy number and contact details.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for vet bills with USAA pet insurance?
With USAA pet insurance (by Embrace), you must pay your veterinarian directly at the time of service. USAA does not offer a direct pay or third-party payment system such as Payvet. After your visit, you submit your claim and eligible expenses are reimbursed to you according to your plan’s coverage and deductible.
How do I cancel my USAA pet insurance policy?
To cancel your USAA pet insurance policy, contact Embrace (the plan provider) by phone at 1-800-511-9172 or via email. There’s no minimum notice requirement, but cancellations after 30 days are refunded on a prorated basis if no claims have been paid. For cancellation, provide your policy information—no extra documents are generally required.
What does USAA pet insurance cover and what is excluded?
USAA pet insurance covers dogs and cats for accidents, illnesses, chronic conditions, cancer, surgery, hospitalizations, specialist care, and many diagnostic procedures. Preventive care such as annual exams, vaccinations, and flea/tick treatments are only reimbursed if you purchase the optional Wellness Rewards add-on. Pre-existing conditions, elective/cosmetic procedures, breeding, and intentional injuries are never covered.
How does reimbursement work and how long does it take?
After paying your vet bill, file a claim online, via app, or by mail. Reimbursements are typically processed within 10–15 business days, though some are eligible for direct deposit in as little as 2 days once approved. You’ll need to submit an itemized invoice and may be asked for your pet’s medical records to confirm eligibility.
Can I enroll my senior pet or pets with health issues?
You can insure pets of any age, but after age 15, only accident-only coverage is available for new enrollments. If your pet already shows signs of an illness or injury before enrolling (a "pre-existing condition"), that condition will not be covered. Once enrolled, your pet can keep its coverage for life as long as premiums are paid.
Do I have to pay upfront for vet bills with USAA pet insurance?
With USAA pet insurance (by Embrace), you must pay your veterinarian directly at the time of service. USAA does not offer a direct pay or third-party payment system such as Payvet. After your visit, you submit your claim and eligible expenses are reimbursed to you according to your plan’s coverage and deductible.
How do I cancel my USAA pet insurance policy?
To cancel your USAA pet insurance policy, contact Embrace (the plan provider) by phone at 1-800-511-9172 or via email. There’s no minimum notice requirement, but cancellations after 30 days are refunded on a prorated basis if no claims have been paid. For cancellation, provide your policy information—no extra documents are generally required.
What does USAA pet insurance cover and what is excluded?
USAA pet insurance covers dogs and cats for accidents, illnesses, chronic conditions, cancer, surgery, hospitalizations, specialist care, and many diagnostic procedures. Preventive care such as annual exams, vaccinations, and flea/tick treatments are only reimbursed if you purchase the optional Wellness Rewards add-on. Pre-existing conditions, elective/cosmetic procedures, breeding, and intentional injuries are never covered.
How does reimbursement work and how long does it take?
After paying your vet bill, file a claim online, via app, or by mail. Reimbursements are typically processed within 10–15 business days, though some are eligible for direct deposit in as little as 2 days once approved. You’ll need to submit an itemized invoice and may be asked for your pet’s medical records to confirm eligibility.
Can I enroll my senior pet or pets with health issues?
You can insure pets of any age, but after age 15, only accident-only coverage is available for new enrollments. If your pet already shows signs of an illness or injury before enrolling (a "pre-existing condition"), that condition will not be covered. Once enrolled, your pet can keep its coverage for life as long as premiums are paid.
