USAA Pet Insurance 2025: Complete Guide & Expert Review

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At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert conducts a comprehensive review of insurance policy terms and pricing available in the market every year, ensuring you receive a trustworthy and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this thorough process, hundreds of thousands of users across the United States rely on us each month to help them make their most important financial decisions.

USAA Guarantees

USAA pet insurance, offered in partnership with Embrace, provides highly customizable plans with annual deductibles from $100 to $1,000, reimbursement rates between 70% and 90%, and annual limits ranging from $2,000 to unlimited.

The core coverage includes both accidents and illnesses for dogs and cats, with broad protection for hereditary, congenital, and chronic conditions, as well as alternative therapies, dental, and prescription drugs—plus the option to add a wellness plan for routine care.

A standout feature is the diminishing deductible for every claim-free year, and generous discounts for USAA members, multi-pet households, and active or retired military, setting it apart from many competitors.

Drawbacks include a six-month wait for orthopedic issues, strict exclusions for pre-existing conditions, and the requirement of a physical exam prior to enrollment.

USAA’s coverage flexibility and strong customer service appeal to pet owners seeking tailored protection, but strict waiting periods and exclusions merit careful review.

Embrace Pet Insurance - Key Features

Embrace offers a diminishing deductible: your annual deductible drops by $50 each claim-free year.

Annual maximum, reimbursement rate, and deductible are fully adjustable at enrollment.

Accident-only coverage available for pets 15+ years.

Physical exam within past 12 months required for new policies.

10% multi-pet discount, up to 25% USAA member/military discount possible.

Compare several plans to make sure you get the best fit and rate for your pet’s needs.

USAA Exclusions

The most notable exclusions in USAA pet insurance (underwritten by Embrace) are strict pre-existing condition rules, including bilateral condition exclusions, and a six-month waiting period for orthopedic and cruciate ligament claims.
Routine, preventive, and maintenance care (such as vaccines, annual exams, dental cleaning) are not covered unless the wellness add-on is purchased. Other distinct exclusions include coverage denial for elective and cosmetic procedures, grooming, behavioral training, experimental therapies, and injuries resulting from neglect, racing, or fighting. Reproductive and breeding incidents, as well as expenses related to lost pet advertising, microchipping, and boarding, are systematically excluded.

USAA Prices

USAA pet insurance, provided through Embrace, is positioned in the mid-range to slightly above-average bracket in terms of monthly premiums.
The plans are highly customizable, offering strong reimbursement rates (up to 90%), flexible annual limits (including unlimited), and low deductible options, making them broader than most budget competitors.
Comprehensive coverage—spanning hereditary, chronic, and alternative care—justifies the cost, although orthopedic and dental illness benefits may face longer waiting periods and some caps.
Significant discounts for USAA members, military families, multi-pet policies, and annual payments help enhance affordability for those eligible.
USAA is best suited for pet owners seeking reliability, coverage completeness, and service quality without venturing into the most expensive segment of the market.

Start comparing plans to find the best price for your pet’s needs.

USAA Promo Codes

Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best pet insurance providers.

USAA Reimbursement Amounts

Reimbursements with USAA (in partnership with Embrace) are based on your annual deductible, your selected reimbursement percentage (up to 90% with the highest-tier plan), and an annual coverage limit or unlimited benefit—helping you manage out-of-pocket costs even for the most expensive treatments.

Cruciate Ligament Tear Surgery Reimbursement Example

Total vet costs: $3,000 Annual deductible (already met earlier in the year): $0 Reimbursed at 90% with the Unlimited plan: $3,000 × 90% = $2,700
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $2,700.
Out-of-pocket cost: $300
ℹ️ No annual limit applies on the Unlimited plan; after the deductible is met, only your share is due for the rest of the policy year.

Feline Diabetes Treatment Cost Breakdown

Total vet costs: $800 (consultations, labs, insulin, and supplies)

Annual deductible remaining: $100

Amount eligible after deductible: $800 – $100 = $700

Reimbursed at 90%: $700 × 90% = $630

👉 You receive $630.

Out-of-pocket cost: $100 deductible + $70 coinsurance = $170

ℹ️ The deductible only applies once per year, so future claims are reimbursed at the plan rate until renewal.

Preventive Care Reimbursement Example (Spay Surgery)

Total vet costs: $500 (surgery, consultation, anesthesia)

Wellness Rewards annual allowance (top tier): $650

Amount reimbursed: $500 (fully reimbursed up to remaining annual allowance)

👉 You receive $500 back from USAA/Embrace.

Out-of-pocket cost: $0 (if allowance remains)

ℹ️ Preventive care, vaccines, and routine wellness treatments are reimbursed up to your annual Wellness Rewards limit as long as there is allowance available.

USAA Assistance

USAA policyholders benefit from a fully digital claims process, with the ability to submit and track claims via app, email, or online portal, which streamlines reimbursement for eligible expenses.

A standout feature is the included 24/7 PawSupport helpline, offering live access to pet health experts for advice and triage, which is valuable for pet owners unsure if their animal needs immediate care.

However, USAA does not provide an advance payment option at the vet, so pet owners must pay upfront for all services before seeking reimbursement.
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The lack of a dedicated network of partner veterinary clinics means members can use any licensed provider, but may not benefit from preferred pricing or direct billing found with some competitors.

Coverage also extends worldwide, making it suitable for military families who may relocate, though no direct assistance services are included abroad.

Customer Reviews of USAA

We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to USAA pet insurance often mention:

• A flexible, customizable coverage structure: users appreciate the choice of deductible, reimbursement rate, and unlimited benefit options.
• Helpful and empathetic customer service: many cite knowledgeable support, especially during pet emergencies or claims.
• Good value for multi-pet households: discounts for multiple pets and military members are commonly highlighted.
• Broad accident and illness coverage, with dental accident and alternative therapy covered in higher plans.

On the negative side:

• A six-month waiting period for orthopedic issues, such as cruciate ligament injuries, is perceived as lengthy.
• An annual physical exam required for eligibility can feel burdensome to some.
• Strict exclusions for pre-existing conditions frustrate some policyholders.
• Some users experience slow reimbursement—claims can take up to 15 days or require multiple document submissions.
• Limits on advanced dental treatment and coverage for certain hereditary or bilateral conditions are noted as drawbacks.

How to Contact USAA

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Jordan Mitchell

Personal finance editor

Jordan is a U.S.-based personal finance editor with over a decade of experience in financial literacy and consumer advocacy. He holds a BA in Economics from the University of California, Berkeley, and a CFP® certification. Before joining HelloSafe, Jordan worked as a financial advisor and later as lead content strategist at several fintech startups. His mission: making money management clear, relatable, and empowering for everyday Americans. At HelloSafe, he writes in-depth guides on topics like insurance, credit, loans, savings, and budgeting—focused on helping readers make smart, confident financial choices.