Is VPI Pet Insurance Worth It? Reviews & Insights 2025
Our expert's opinion on VPI
VPI (now branded as Nationwide) remains the largest and most established pet insurance provider in the US, with 1 million+ pets insured, over 40 years of experience, and annual premium volumes estimated in the hundreds of millions. VPI’s core accident/illness plan (VBW-I) offers up to $7,500 annual reimbursement, with flexible deductible options ($100-$500), typical reimbursement rates (50-100%), and a preventive care budget available as an add-on. Its rates start at $25/month for young cats, rising for older or purebred pets; multi-pet discounts and wellness options provide added pricing flexibility. Unlike most competitors, VPI uniquely insures exotic pets, and stands out for its high reimbursement ceilings, quick claim processing (4-day average), and wide US/global vet access. However, few formula choices and strict exclusions apply—hereditary, congenital and preexisting conditions are declined, orthopedic/bilateral issues have year-long waiting periods, and some plans lack customizability.
VPI is especially well-suited for owners of younger pets seeking robust annual payouts, multi-pet families, or those with exotic animals. Its pricing positions it moderately—slightly higher than discount insurers, but justified by strong guarantees and comprehensive vet reimbursement.
Underwritten by the well-capitalized Nationwide (rating: Trustpilot 4.3/5 from over 700 reviews), with a consistently fast claims process, flexible cancellation, and a reputation for reliability, VPI remains a reference choice for comprehensive pet health protection in the US.
- ✅Covers dogs, cats, birds, reptiles and exotics
- ✅High annual payout limit (up to $7,500/unlimited)
- ✅Fast average reimbursement (4 days)
- ✅Multi-pet and wellness discounts available
- ✅Nationwide vet and global travel coverage
- ✅Comprehensive end-of-life and loss coverage
- ✅30-day money-back guarantee
- ❌Few customizable plan options
- ❌No illness coverage for pets over 6 years
- ❌Strict exclusions for hereditary conditions
- ❌Benefit schedules limit direct % reimbursement
- ❌Lengthy waiting periods for some orthopedic issues
- ✅Covers dogs, cats, birds, reptiles and exotics
- ✅High annual payout limit (up to $7,500/unlimited)
- ✅Fast average reimbursement (4 days)
- ✅Multi-pet and wellness discounts available
- ✅Nationwide vet and global travel coverage
- ✅Comprehensive end-of-life and loss coverage
- ✅30-day money-back guarantee
Our expert's opinion on VPI
Score- ✅Covers dogs, cats, birds, reptiles and exotics
- ✅High annual payout limit (up to $7,500/unlimited)
- ✅Fast average reimbursement (4 days)
- ✅Multi-pet and wellness discounts available
- ✅Nationwide vet and global travel coverage
- ✅Comprehensive end-of-life and loss coverage
- ✅30-day money-back guarantee
- ❌Few customizable plan options
- ❌No illness coverage for pets over 6 years
- ❌Strict exclusions for hereditary conditions
- ❌Benefit schedules limit direct % reimbursement
- ❌Lengthy waiting periods for some orthopedic issues
- ✅Covers dogs, cats, birds, reptiles and exotics
- ✅High annual payout limit (up to $7,500/unlimited)
- ✅Fast average reimbursement (4 days)
- ✅Multi-pet and wellness discounts available
- ✅Nationwide vet and global travel coverage
- ✅Comprehensive end-of-life and loss coverage
- ✅30-day money-back guarantee
- VPI guarantees
- VPI exclusions
- VPI rates
- VPI Assistance
- Customer feedback on VPI
- How can I contact VPI?
- FAQ
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VPI guarantees
VPI (now Nationwide) primarily offers its VBW-I formula, structuring coverage around a $7,500 annual reimbursement cap, annual deductible, and a co-pay system, with reimbursement rates ranging from 50% to 100% depending on plan options. All species are eligible—dogs, cats, birds, and exotics—with key strengths including fast claims processing, extensive acceptance of exotic pets, and optional wellness/preventive care (when available in your state).
VPI stands out for its robust additional protections: death, theft/loss, lost pet reward, and boarding fees if the owner is hospitalized, all subject to sub-limits but rare among US insurers. However, weaknesses include benefit schedules on some plans (not always a straight % reimbursement), rigid plan customization, long waiting periods for orthopedic/bilateral issues, and no coverage for illnesses in pets above 6 years or hereditary/congenital conditions.
Pre-existing conditions, as well as many non-medical costs, are systematically excluded and all reimbursements require comprehensive documentation.
| Guarantee Name | VBW-I Formula / (VPI main plan) |
|---|---|
| Positioning | Global illness & accident formula, US flagship |
| Type of coverage | Illness, accident, wellness (option), theft, death |
| Animals covered | Dogs, cats; birds and exotic pets (unique) |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 50%–100% (variable by plan) |
| Annual max reimbursement (vet care) | $7,500 |
| Deductible (per year/visit) | $100, $250, $500 per year (choice at enrollment) |
| Min/max age at enrollment (cat) | Min 8 weeks / Max NC (illnesses not covered >6y) |
| Min/max age at enrollment (dog) | Min 8 weeks / Max NC (illnesses not covered >6y) |
| Health questionnaire required | Medical review, may require recent vet exam |
| Illness waiting period | 14 days |
| Accident waiting period | 14 days |
| Lifetime cover once enrolled | ✅ (as long as policy is active) |
| Vet consultations (general, urgent, specialist) | ✅, any licensed vet, US & intl |
| Medications | ✅ Prescription meds, vitamins, diets |
| Hospitalization | ✅ |
| Ambulance costs | NC |
| Surgery, anesthesia | ✅ |
| MRI, CT, ultrasound | ✅ Diagnostic imaging included |
| Laboratory tests | ✅ |
| Radiation therapy | ✅ |
| Dental care | ❌ (only accidental extraction) |
| Dental scaling | ❌ |
| Prevention allowance (amount, uses) | Option; amount not public, includes core vaccines, prevention, health checks |
| Complementary/alternative medicine | ✅ Some alternative therapies covered |
| Prescription diet foods | ✅ |
| Countries covered/travel | ✅, worldwide (w/ valid US address) |
| Death / cremation | Up to $1,000, per policy limits and criteria |
| Euthanasia | ✅ |
| Theft/loss (replacement cost) | Up to $500 ($150 if no receipt) |
| Lost pet advertising/reward | Up to $500 per period |
| Boarding fees (owner in hospital) | Up to $500 per period |
Good to know
- Filing limit for claims is up to 365 days post-treatment but recommended within 90 days.
- Orthopedic/hip/cruciate waiting periods are 12 months; pre-existing conditions are permanently excluded.
- Wellness/preventive add-on is not available in every state and may have separate sub-limits or exclusions.
- Only the primary plan is allowed per pet; coverage is not transferable except in case of legal succession.
- Benefit schedules may apply depending on sub-plan, affecting reimbursement method.
Compare leading pet insurers now to find the best coverage for your pet at the lowest possible price.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!VPI exclusions
Exclusions play a significant role in the VPI (Nationwide) policy, notably the systematic exclusion of pre-existing conditions (including recurrences and complications), and all illnesses that appeared or showed symptoms before policy start or during the waiting period.
Furthermore, hereditary and congenital conditions, pregnancy complications, and claims tied to behavioral treatment or obedience training unless specifically prescribed are excluded, distinguishing this insurer from some competitors that offer partial or conditional support for these risks.
Extended waiting periods for orthopedic and bilateral conditions like cruciate injuries—up to one year—are also particularly strict compared to market norms.
Other exclusions to note are costs not directly prescribed by a vet (boarding, grooming, transport), all experimental treatments, as well as limitations related to death benefits for older animals.
Finally, any claim arising from war, nuclear events, voluntary surrender, or lack of required proof/documentation is not eligible for reimbursement.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical Exclusions | - Pre-existing conditions (diagnosed, symptomatic, or treated before coverage or during waiting period) - Complications from excluded/pre-existing conditions - Hereditary or congenital disorders - Pregnancy or breeding-related complications - Some orthopedic/bilateral conditions: 1-year waiting period - Illness coverage excluded for pets over age 6 (select plans) - Experimental or investigational treatments - Behavioral/obedience training (unless vet-prescribed) - Dietary supplements, food (unless by prescription) - Claims for chronic exclusions are non-reviewable |
| Geographic/Coverage Scope | - Coverage only for insured period, animal named in policy - Boarding/pet sitting not covered except during owner's hospitalization - Travel covered, but only if with a valid US policy and under specific terms |
| Identification & Evidence | - Lack of required documents, invoices, vet confirmation - Unverifiable pet death or missing event |
| Administrative Exclusions | - Claims without timely notification (e.g., after 90 days for some plans) - Claims not directly related to a vet act (e.g. waste removal, taxes, vet documents) - Claims filed after the allowable window (365 days post-treatment limit) |
| Third-Party/Intentional Acts | - Conditions caused intentionally by owner or household - Claims arising from war, insurrection, nuclear events, or voluntary surrender |
- Complications from excluded/pre-existing conditions
- Hereditary or congenital disorders
- Pregnancy or breeding-related complications
- Some orthopedic/bilateral conditions: 1-year waiting period
- Illness coverage excluded for pets over age 6 (select plans)
- Experimental or investigational treatments
- Behavioral/obedience training (unless vet-prescribed)
- Dietary supplements, food (unless by prescription)
- Claims for chronic exclusions are non-reviewable
- Boarding/pet sitting not covered except during owner's hospitalization
- Travel covered, but only if with a valid US policy and under specific terms
- Unverifiable pet death or missing event
- Claims not directly related to a vet act (e.g. waste removal, taxes, vet documents)
- Claims filed after the allowable window (365 days post-treatment limit)
- Claims arising from war, insurrection, nuclear events, or voluntary surrender
VPI rates
VPI—now Nationwide—holds a median to slightly premium price position on the US pet insurance market. Its core plans (Whole Pet, Major Medical) offer reimbursement up to $5,000–$7,500 per year, with optional unlimited limits, but with several constraints such as preset benefit schedules and standard annual deductibles from $100 to $500.
Coverage is broad, including accidents, illnesses, some end-of-life costs, lost pet advertising, and even exotics; however, flexibility is more limited and reimbursement rates or annual maximums are not as customizable as top competitors.
Pricing reflects this mix: rates are higher than budget digital-only insurers thanks to broad, traditional phone-based claims service and access to vet helplines, but are typically not as expensive as ultra-premium or micro-tailored plans.
Overall, Nationwide (formerly VPI) is positioned as a complete but moderately priced offering, ideal for owners seeking comprehensive, stable coverage—especially for less common animal types—but not for those prioritizing lowest price or full plan personalization.
| Whole Pet Plan | Major Medical Plan | Wellness Plan Add-On | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2-4 yrs) | $22/mo | $17/mo | +$14/mo |
| Senior cat (7-8 yrs) | $29/mo | $24/mo | +$14/mo |
| Small dog (2-4 yrs) | $39/mo | $29/mo | +$15/mo |
| Large dog (2-4 yrs) | $60/mo | $48/mo | +$15/mo |
| Senior dog (7-8 yrs) | $84/mo | $70/mo | +$15/mo |
To make sure you're getting the best value for your pet’s needs, always compare quotes from multiple insurers before choosing a plan.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!VPI Promo Codes
| VPI Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| Multi-pet discount | 5% off per additional pet |
| Code HelloSafe | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest promo codes, please visit our comparison of the best pet insurance.
How much will I be reimbursed with VPI?
Reimbursement with VPI pet insurance is simple: after you pay the vet and submit your claim, you'll be reimbursed for eligible expenses above your annual deductible, according to your selected reimbursement percentage and up to your annual coverage limit—so you always know your out-of-pocket costs.
Example 1: Emergency Visit for Dog’s Torn Ligament
Total veterinary bill: $2,400 (exam, x-rays, orthopedic surgery, medications)
Annual deductible (first claim of the policy year): $250
Amount eligible for reimbursement after deductible: $2,400 – $250 = $2,150
With VPI’s strongest plan (VBW-I): 90% reimbursement up to $7,500 annual limit.
Reimbursement: 90% × $2,150 = $1,935
👉 You’re reimbursed $1,935 by VPI.
Your remaining out-of-pocket: $250 deductible + $215 co-insurance = $465.
ℹ️ The $250 deductible applies once per policy year. Future reimbursements will not require this deductible again until renewal.
Example 2: Cancer Treatment and Chemotherapy (Cat)
Total cost: $5,000 (diagnostics, several chemo sessions, medications)
Deductible already met on an earlier claim this year.
Eligible amount for reimbursement: $5,000 × 90% = $4,500
👉 You get $4,500 back from VPI.
Your remaining cost: only $500.
ℹ️ Maximum annual coverage is $7,500, so you still have $3,000 left for additional claims this year. All future claims this year are reimbursed at 90% since the annual deductible is already paid.
Example 3: Preventive Care – Annual Check-Up, Vaccines & Flea/Tick Prevention
Total cost: $320 (wellness exam $80, routine vaccines $110, flea/tick & heartworm prevention $130)
Deductible does not apply to wellness/routine care if you selected the Wellness add-on (in states where available).
Reimbursement: Up to prescribed annual Wellness benefit schedule, typically 100% up to the category limit.
👉 If annual wellness max is $400, you’re reimbursed $320 in full.
Out-of-pocket for routine care: $0.
ℹ️ Wellness coverage must be added to your policy and is not available in every state. Preventive care helps detect problems early and minimizes costly treatments down the line.
VPI Assistance
The assistance offering from VPI (Nationwide) covers essential needs for US pet owners but omits certain innovative options now increasingly offered by competitors. VPI does not provide a direct payment or advance of veterinary bills—owners always pay up-front and claim reimbursement, increasing out-of-pocket exposure during emergencies.
Flexible payment options are present, but only through standard split or recurring payments, with potential administrative fees.
Claims are typically handled online or via a mobile-optimized web portal; though the process is efficient (4 days on average), there is no dedicated, full-featured mobile app, and user feedback shows limited innovation in UX or ergonomic design.
A significant strength is the inclusion of VetHelpline®, providing 24/7 veterinary tele-advice for members, but there is no triaged emergency service that actively connects to physical clinics or guarantees fast-track appointments.
Assistance extends abroad for travel, but remains subject to US residency and does not equate to continuous international coverage or networked foreign provider access.
| Assistance VPI | Disponible ? | Détails |
|---|---|---|
| Advance of fees | ❌ | No direct pay or advance system; pet owners pay vet in full, then submit for reimbursement. |
| Payment facilities | ✅ | Monthly or periodic billing options are available. Enrollment fee may apply for split payments. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | No standalone app as of 2025; claims submitted via web portal. UX is standard; no significant ergonomics feedback. |
| Digital claim processing | ✅ | Claims filed online, by email, mail, or fax. Direct deposit or check available. Avg. 4-day processing. |
| Veterinary emergency (triage/care) | ❌ | No direct emergency hotline for clinics or guaranteed ER appointment booking. Tele-advice VetHelpline® is provided 24/7. |
| Veterinary clinic network | ❌ | No partner network; coverage applies at any licensed vet, but no negotiated rates or preferred access. |
| International coverage | ✅ | Pet is covered during trips abroad as long as policyholder maintains valid US address. No continuous foreign residency cover; claims require standard documentation. |
Customer feedback on VPI
| Review site | Score and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.3/5 (714 reviews) |
| Pawlicy Advisor | 4.6/5 (1,120 reviews) |
| ConsumerAffairs | 3.8/5 (917 reviews) |
We have analyzed the reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, policyholders who have taken out a VPI (now Nationwide) pet insurance most often mention:
- A quick and simple claims process: the average claim reimbursement time is 4 days, and the online submission is intuitive and user-friendly.
- Friendly, knowledgeable, and empathetic customer service: many pet parents highlight the supportiveness and compassion of representatives, especially during stressful times such as end-of-life care.
- Wide and unique coverage: coverage includes a broad range of animals (dogs, cats, birds, exotic pets), as well as routine and wellness care, diagnostic exams, and even end-of-life and lost pet advertising/reward.
- Flexible vet choice and travel coverage: the ability to visit any licensed veterinarian in the US or while traveling abroad is highly appreciated.
- Useful value-added services: the inclusion of telehealth (VetHelpline), prescription discount programs, and quick direct deposit payments are frequently cited.
- Option to increase coverage: some customers praise the availability of both limited and unlimited annual plan options, and the possibility to expand policy benefits.
On the negative side:
- Restrictive benefit schedules: several customers express dissatisfaction with the use of pre-set payout schedules rather than straight percentage-of-bill reimbursement, which sometimes leads to lower-than-expected reimbursements.
- Limited plan customization: policyholders note that options to adjust deductibles, reimbursement percentages, or coverage limits are missing or inflexible on some plans.
- Tight exclusions and restrictions: many negative experiences relate to denied claims for hereditary, congenital, or pre-existing conditions, as well as limitations on illness coverage for pets over age 6.
- Premium increases: multiple users report significant annual premium hikes, especially as their pets age; this is a frequent source of frustration.
- Communication issues and claims delays: while claims are typically processed quickly, some customers have encountered slow responses, unclear explanations for rejections, or problems when policies lapse due to payment processing errors.
- Wellness plan availability varies: the wellness/routine care option is not available in every state, which disappoints some customers looking for full preventive care protection.
How can I contact VPI?
| Customer Service VPI | 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 | Declare your claim within 90 days of the first treatment. Send the completed claim form, the detailed vet invoice, and your pet's identification. Send your documents: - By email through the online form - By mail: VPI/Nationwide, DVM Insurance Agency, Suite 145, 1800 E. Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821 Or by phone at 1-800-540-2016. Payment by check or direct deposit. Average reimbursement delay: 4 days. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Contact customer service: - By phone: 1-800-540-2016 - By email via the online form Information about your contract or insured pet may be requested. Certificate usually sent by email. |
| To contact assistance | For any assistance request, call customer service at 1-800-540-2016 (Monday to Friday 5am-7pm PST, Saturday 7am-3:30pm PST). For veterinary advice, use VetHelpline® (member service, access via your member area or by phone). |
| To cancel my contract | You can cancel at any time: - By phone at 1-800-540-2016 - By mail to DVM Insurance Agency, Suite 145, 1800 E. Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821 No proof required. If you cancel within 30 days and without a claim, you get a full refund ("free look"). Otherwise, prorated refund of the unused premium. Cancellation takes effect upon receipt of the request or on the desired date (specified in the request). |
Send the completed claim form, the detailed vet invoice, and your pet's identification.
Send your documents:
- By email through the online form
- By mail: VPI/Nationwide, DVM Insurance Agency, Suite 145, 1800 E. Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821
Or by phone at 1-800-540-2016.
Payment by check or direct deposit.
Average reimbursement delay: 4 days.
- By phone: 1-800-540-2016
- By email via the online form
Information about your contract or insured pet may be requested. Certificate usually sent by email.
For veterinary advice, use VetHelpline® (member service, access via your member area or by phone).
- By phone at 1-800-540-2016
- By mail to DVM Insurance Agency, Suite 145, 1800 E. Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821
No proof required.
If you cancel within 30 days and without a claim, you get a full refund ("free look").
Otherwise, prorated refund of the unused premium.
Cancellation takes effect upon receipt of the request or on the desired date (specified in the request).
FAQ
Do I need to pay the vet bills upfront with VPI?
With VPI (now Nationwide), you must pay veterinary costs directly to your provider at the time of service. VPI does not offer a direct pay or third-party payment system like Payvet—reimbursement is made to you after a claim is submitted and approved. Always keep your itemized invoices for claim filing.
How do I cancel my VPI pet insurance contract?
You can cancel your VPI policy at any time by calling their customer service line or sending a written request by mail. The recommended notice period is 10 days, and you should include your policy information with your request. If you haven’t filed a claim, you may also use the 30-day money-back guarantee ("Free Look") to get a full refund.
What animals and conditions are covered by VPI insurance?
VPI covers dogs, cats, and a range of exotic pets (such as birds, reptiles, and small mammals). The policy includes accidents, illnesses, some preventive care, boarding (if hospitalized), advertising/rewards for lost pets, and end-of-life expenses. Pre-existing conditions and hereditary issues are excluded, and certain age or waiting period restrictions may apply.
When does my coverage start, and are there waiting periods?
Coverage generally starts 14 days after your policy is approved and payment is received. There is a 14-day waiting period for most accidents and illnesses, and up to 12 months for orthopedic conditions like hip dysplasia. Preventive care add-ons may have only a 1-day wait, but always check your specific plan documents.
How does reimbursement work, and what are the coverage limits?
After you meet your annual deductible, VPI will reimburse you according to your plan’s coinsurance rate and annual benefit limit—commonly up to $7,500 per year. To get reimbursed, file a claim online or via mail with the required documentation; claims are typically processed within a few days. Some plans pay a set benefit schedule rather than a percentage of your vet bill, so review your plan details carefully.
Do I need to pay the vet bills upfront with VPI?
With VPI (now Nationwide), you must pay veterinary costs directly to your provider at the time of service. VPI does not offer a direct pay or third-party payment system like Payvet—reimbursement is made to you after a claim is submitted and approved. Always keep your itemized invoices for claim filing.
How do I cancel my VPI pet insurance contract?
You can cancel your VPI policy at any time by calling their customer service line or sending a written request by mail. The recommended notice period is 10 days, and you should include your policy information with your request. If you haven’t filed a claim, you may also use the 30-day money-back guarantee ("Free Look") to get a full refund.
What animals and conditions are covered by VPI insurance?
VPI covers dogs, cats, and a range of exotic pets (such as birds, reptiles, and small mammals). The policy includes accidents, illnesses, some preventive care, boarding (if hospitalized), advertising/rewards for lost pets, and end-of-life expenses. Pre-existing conditions and hereditary issues are excluded, and certain age or waiting period restrictions may apply.
When does my coverage start, and are there waiting periods?
Coverage generally starts 14 days after your policy is approved and payment is received. There is a 14-day waiting period for most accidents and illnesses, and up to 12 months for orthopedic conditions like hip dysplasia. Preventive care add-ons may have only a 1-day wait, but always check your specific plan documents.
How does reimbursement work, and what are the coverage limits?
After you meet your annual deductible, VPI will reimburse you according to your plan’s coinsurance rate and annual benefit limit—commonly up to $7,500 per year. To get reimbursed, file a claim online or via mail with the required documentation; claims are typically processed within a few days. Some plans pay a set benefit schedule rather than a percentage of your vet bill, so review your plan details carefully.
