VPI Pet Insurance: Our In-Depth Review 2025
Our expert's opinion on VPI
VPI, now operating as Nationwide Pet Insurance, is the oldest and largest pet insurer in the US, offering structured plans with annual limits up to $7,500, reimbursement rates between 50% and 100%, and deductible choices of $100, $250, or $500, plus optional wellness benefits where available. Compared to main competitors like ASPCA and Embrace, VPI stands out for broad species coverage (including exotics), robust claim handling, and an unlimited payout option, though premiums start around $25/month and flexibility in plan customization is limited. VPI's policy is especially well-suited for multi-pet households, owners of exotic animals, and those seeking high annual limits or coverage for wellness and boarding, but less so for owners of older pets seeking new illness coverage or those desiring plan configurability. Financially, the insurer is highly reliable, affiliated with Nationwide (over 1 million insured pets, top US market share) and receives a Trustpilot score of 4.3/5 from 714+ reviews; most claims are reimbursed in an average of 4 days, and customer service is generally well rated with a few communication concerns reported.
- ✅Covers dogs, cats, birds, and exotic pets
- ✅Quick claim reimbursement (average 4 days)
- ✅Unlimited annual payout option
- ✅Year-long window to submit claims
- ✅Wellness coverage available (standalone in some states)
- ✅Diagnostic exams and end-of-life care included
- ✅Strong market reputation and financial security
- ❌Fixed annual limit on main plan ($7,500)
- ❌Limited ability to customize deductible/reimbursement
- ❌Some payouts use benefit schedule, not percent of invoice
- ❌Wellness not available in all states
- ❌New illness coverage unavailable for pets over age 6
Score- ✅Covers dogs, cats, birds, and exotic pets
- ✅Quick claim reimbursement (average 4 days)
- ✅Unlimited annual payout option
- ✅Year-long window to submit claims
- ✅Wellness coverage available (standalone in some states)
- ✅Diagnostic exams and end-of-life care included
- ✅Strong market reputation and financial security
Our expert's opinion on VPI
- ✅Covers dogs, cats, birds, and exotic pets
- ✅Quick claim reimbursement (average 4 days)
- ✅Unlimited annual payout option
- ✅Year-long window to submit claims
- ✅Wellness coverage available (standalone in some states)
- ✅Diagnostic exams and end-of-life care included
- ✅Strong market reputation and financial security
- ❌Fixed annual limit on main plan ($7,500)
- ❌Limited ability to customize deductible/reimbursement
- ❌Some payouts use benefit schedule, not percent of invoice
- ❌Wellness not available in all states
- ❌New illness coverage unavailable for pets over age 6
Score- ✅Covers dogs, cats, birds, and exotic pets
- ✅Quick claim reimbursement (average 4 days)
- ✅Unlimited annual payout option
- ✅Year-long window to submit claims
- ✅Wellness coverage available (standalone in some states)
- ✅Diagnostic exams and end-of-life care included
- ✅Strong market reputation and financial security
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies on the market every year to provide you with reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, hundreds of thousands of Americans trust us each month to help them make their most important financial decisions.
VPI Coverages
VPI (now Nationwide) offers multiple pet insurance plans, including Major Medical and Whole Pet, with annual limits up to $5,000 or unlimited for some options, and reimbursement rates between 50–100%, depending on the plan.
Deductible choices typically range from $100 to $500 annually; wellness and preventive care add-ons are available in most states, and plans extend to dogs, cats, and exotics.
VPI distinguishes itself as the only mainstream provider to cover birds and exotic pets, and boasts a fast average claims reimbursement time of 4 days, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and robust death/boarding/lost pet benefits.
However, limitations include pre-set reimbursement schedules (rather than clear direct claim percentages for some plans), reduced customizability, multi-state wellness availability, extended waiting periods for certain conditions, and lack of illness coverage for seniors enrolled after age 6.
| Name of coverage | Major Medical | Whole Pet with Wellness |
|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Standard by-condition | Premium, broadest Nationwide |
| Type of coverage | Accident, illness | Accident, illness, wellness |
| Animals covered | Dogs, cats, birds, exotics | Dogs, cats (wellness: most states) |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | Varies (e.g. 70%, by schedule) | Up to 90% (some direct %, some schedule) |
| Annual reimbursement limit | Per-incident or $5,000/year | $5,000/year or unlimited |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | $100–$500 annual or per-incident | $100–$500 annual |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | Min. 8 wks, illness <6 yrs | Min. 8 wks, illness <6 yrs |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | Required, see plan | Required, see plan |
| Waiting period (illness) | 14 days | 14 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 14 days | 14 days |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ | ✅ |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Medications | ✅ Prescription only | ✅ Prescription only |
| Hospitalization | ✅ | ✅ |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | Accident/injury | Accident/injury |
| Preventive care package | ❌ | ✅ (add-on or bundled) |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | By plan | By plan |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | US, some worldwide | US, some worldwide |
| Civil liability | ❌ | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | ✅ End-of-life (limits apply) | ✅ End-of-life (limits apply) |
| Death & cremation coverage | ✅ (limits, age restriction) | ✅ (limits, age restriction) |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ✅ Up to $500/year | ✅ Up to $500/year |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ✅ Up to $500/year | ✅ Up to $500/year |
Key Features of VPI Pet Insurance Plans
VPI plans uniquely cover exotic species, offer up to 365 days to file a claim, and have a 1-year waiting period for orthopedic or cruciate ligament issues. Most plans require pets to enroll before age 6 for full illness coverage, and discounts (5%+) apply for each added pet. Maximum annual payout for all benefits combined is typically $5,000, unless unlimited benefit selected.
Consider comparing all plans to find the best fit and value for your pet’s needs.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!VPI Exclusions
VPI’s policy applies a standard set of exclusions common in the pet insurance market, including pre-existing conditions, intentionally caused injuries, and experimental or non-standard therapies.
Notably, hereditary and congenital conditions are excluded as are most maternity-related expenses, with restricted reimbursement for euthanasia and pet death after certain ages (dog ≥ 8, cat ≥ 10 for illness-related deaths).
Benefit payments are excluded when veterinary expenses are not directly related to clinical care (such as administrative fees, grooming, non-prescription supplements, and training unless medically indicated). Extended waiting periods for orthopedic or bilateral conditions and specific benefit caps (e.g., for boarding or lost pet advertising) set VPI apart from some competitors. These exclusions make the policy relatively conventional but particularly strict on genetics, behavior therapy without prescription, and reimbursement outside the core medical context.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | • Pre-existing conditions • Chronic untreated issues • Hereditary and congenital disorders • Pregnancy/puppy care • Unprescribed behavioral treatment |
| Treatment exclusions | • Experimental or investigational procedures • Cosmetic or non-standard therapies • Elective surgeries |
| Administrative exclusions | • Boarding (except owner hospitalization) • Grooming, transport, training • Dietary supplements unless prescribed • Food costs (even for medical diets) |
| Financial exclusions | • Fees not directly linked to clinical care (waste, documents, taxes, banking) • Vacation cancellation costs due to pet treatments |
| Age/condition-related | • Death/euthanasia for illness: not covered for dogs ≥8 yrs, cats ≥10 yrs • Loss claims for voluntary transfers |
| Territorial exclusions | • Accidents resulting from war, insurrection, nuclear/radiation events |
• Chronic untreated issues
• Hereditary and congenital disorders
• Pregnancy/puppy care
• Unprescribed behavioral treatment
• Cosmetic or non-standard therapies
• Elective surgeries
• Grooming, transport, training
• Dietary supplements unless prescribed
• Food costs (even for medical diets)
• Vacation cancellation costs due to pet treatments
• Loss claims for voluntary transfers
VPI Prices
VPI positions itself in the mid to slightly high price segment, with rates that reflect its strong all-species offering and extensive core medical coverage.
Premiums are primarily determined by species, age, breed risk, and the breadth of selected coverage—exotic animal and upper-tier dog plans carry higher rates.
While some competitors offer lower starting prices, VPI’s reimbursement rates (up to 90%), broad acceptance (all vets, even exotics), and add-ons (boarding, lost pet, death) justify the cost, especially for niche pet types.
Deductible and co-insurance structures are in line with market norms, though limited plan customizability may limit budget optimization for single-pet households.
VPI is best suited to owners seeking high limits and multi-pet or exotic coverage, rather than pure low-cost value.
| Major Medical Plan | Whole Pet Plan | |
|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $21/month | $34/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $28/month | $45/month |
| Small breed dog | $33/month | $54/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $29/month | $48/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $57/month | $92/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $85/month | $134/month |
VPI Promo Codes
| VPI Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| Multi-pet discount | 5% off each additional pet |
| 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.
VPI Reimbursement Amounts: What to Expect
With VPI’s highest-tier Whole Pet plan, you pay an annual deductible (e.g., $250), then for each covered expense VPI reimburses a large portion (up to 90%) of the remaining veterinary costs, subject to your annual coverage limit.
Ear Infection Consultation and Treatment Cost Breakdown
Total veterinary cost: $220 (exam + diagnostics + medication)
Annual deductible to subtract: $250 (first claim of the year)
Amount eligible for reimbursement after deductible: $220 – $250 = $0 (deductible not yet met)
Your reimbursement: $0
Your total out-of-pocket: $220
ℹ️ The deductible applies first; once met, future expenses are largely reimbursed.
Cruciate Ligament Surgery Cost Breakdown
Total veterinary and surgical cost: $2,600
Annual deductible: $250 (already paid earlier this year)
Reimbursable amount: $2,600 × 90% = $2,340
Your reimbursement: $2,340
Your total out-of-pocket: $260 (10% co-insurance)
ℹ️ After meeting your annual deductible, you’re reimbursed at the 90% rate for covered procedures, up to your remaining annual limit.
Routine wellness care example
Total annual cost: $350 (vaccinations, check-up, microchipping)
Annual deductible: $0 (preventive care benefits are separate)
VPI reimburses up to $400 per year for routine care costs
Your reimbursement: $350 (full reimbursement within the add-on’s limit)
Your total out-of-pocket: $0
ℹ️ Preventive services are reimbursed up to the annual amount in the Wellness add-on. Unused allotment does not roll over.
VPI Assistance
The most notable VPI assistance feature is its quick, paperless claims process: policyholders can file claims online, by email, fax, or mail, with average reimbursement in about 4 days and funds sent via direct deposit or check.
VPI does not offer an advance payment service, so pet owners must pay the clinic directly and await reimbursement.
There is a well-rated mobile app for managing claims and policies, but no 24/7 emergency veterinary helpline or teleconsultation is included—support is limited to standard business hours via phone or online channel.
No formal partner clinic network exists, allowing policyholders to use any licensed veterinarian; coverage extends to treatments received abroad as long as the policyholder maintains a valid US address.
The lack of structured payment facilities, advance payments, and integrated emergency assistance may be a disadvantage compared to some market competitors.
| Assistance VPI | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment service. Owners pay vet bills up front and submit claims for reimbursement. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No mention of installment options or fee-free deferred payments in policy or public info. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | Mobile app for submitting and tracking claims, managing policy info, uploading documents. |
| Rated above 4/5 on mainstream app stores; used for digital claims and account maintenance. | ||
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims can be filed online, by email, fax, or app. |
| Digital attachments accepted. Average payout is 4 days via direct deposit or check. | ||
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No 24/7 emergency vet hotline or teleconsultation included. Support during business hours only. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No network; claims eligible at any licensed US or international veterinarian. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Coverage valid for policyholders with a US address; applies to treatment abroad while traveling temporarily. |
Customer Reviews of VPI
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.3/5 (714 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to VPI for their pets often mention:
- A very wide range of pet types covered, including exotic animals, which is rare among U.S. insurers.
- Fast and reliable claim processing, with the average reimbursement received within about 4 days.
- High satisfaction with knowledgeable and empathetic customer service representatives.
- The option for unlimited payouts and the ability to expand policy benefits for comprehensive protection.
On the negative side:
- Some customers experience policy lapses tied to payment processing issues and limited flexibility in plan customization.
- Delays in communication related to payments and policy changes can cause frustration.
- Certain pre-defined payout schedules or lack of direct percentage-based reimbursement disappoint some pet owners.
- Illness coverage is not available for pets over age 6, and wellness benefits are not offered in every state.
Contacting VPI
| VPI 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 | Submit your claim online, by email, mail, or fax. Required: itemized invoice, claim form, medical records if requested. Average processing: 4 days. Phone: 800-540-2016 Mail: DVM Insurance Agency, Suite 145, 1800 E. Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821 |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Request by phone at 800-540-2016, or in writing at DVM Insurance Agency, Suite 145, 1800 E. Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821. Email via company online form if available. |
| To contact assistance | Call Member Care at 800-540-2016, Mon–Fri 5am-7pm PST, Sat 7am–3:30pm PST. For new enrollments: 800-872-7387. Use the online contact form or write to the above address. |
| To cancel my policy | Call 800-540-2016 or send a written cancellation request to DVM Insurance Agency, Suite 145, 1800 E. Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821. Include your policy number and contact info. Can cancel at any time; unused premium may be refunded. 30-day free look: full refund if no claims filed. |
Required: itemized invoice, claim form, medical records if requested.
Average processing: 4 days.
Phone: 800-540-2016
Mail: DVM Insurance Agency, Suite 145, 1800 E. Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821
Email via company online form if available.
For new enrollments: 800-872-7387.
Use the online contact form or write to the above address.
Include your policy number and contact info.
Can cancel at any time; unused premium may be refunded.
30-day free look: full refund if no claims filed.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with VPI?
Yes, you must pay your veterinary bills directly at the time of service. VPI does not offer an advance payment or third-party direct pay system. Afterward, you can submit a claim for reimbursement for eligible expenses according to your policy’s terms.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with VPI?
You can cancel your policy at any time by calling 800-540-2016 or sending a written request to DVM Insurance Agency, Suite 145, 1800 E. Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821. Be sure to include your policy number and contact information. There is no required advance notice period, and any unused premium will be refunded, subject to policy terms.
What documents do I need to file a claim, and how do I submit it?
To file a claim, you’ll need an itemized invoice from your veterinarian, the completed claim form, and any medical records requested by VPI. Claims can be submitted online, by email, by mail, or by fax. Reimbursement is processed by check or direct deposit, with average completion time around 4 days.
Which pets and conditions are eligible for coverage?
VPI covers dogs, cats, birds, and a wide variety of exotic pets. Coverage includes accidents, illnesses, and some wellness care depending on your chosen plan. Pre-existing conditions, hereditary or congenital issues, and pregnancy are excluded, so it’s best to enroll your pet while they are young and healthy.
How are premiums, deductibles, and annual limits determined?
Your premium is based on species, age, breed, selected coverage, deductible, and your location. Annual deductibles typically range from $100 to $500, and annual coverage limits range up to $7,500 or more depending on the plan. The benefit schedule or reimbursement percentage you choose will affect how much you pay out-of-pocket.
Is there a waiting period before coverage begins?
Yes, there is a standard waiting period of at least 14 days from the effective date before illness or accident coverage begins. No claims for illnesses or injuries occurring within this time will be eligible for reimbursement. Wellness coverage, if purchased, may have a shorter or no waiting period.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with VPI?
Yes, you must pay your veterinary bills directly at the time of service. VPI does not offer an advance payment or third-party direct pay system. Afterward, you can submit a claim for reimbursement for eligible expenses according to your policy’s terms.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with VPI?
You can cancel your policy at any time by calling 800-540-2016 or sending a written request to DVM Insurance Agency, Suite 145, 1800 E. Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821. Be sure to include your policy number and contact information. There is no required advance notice period, and any unused premium will be refunded, subject to policy terms.
What documents do I need to file a claim, and how do I submit it?
To file a claim, you’ll need an itemized invoice from your veterinarian, the completed claim form, and any medical records requested by VPI. Claims can be submitted online, by email, by mail, or by fax. Reimbursement is processed by check or direct deposit, with average completion time around 4 days.
Which pets and conditions are eligible for coverage?
VPI covers dogs, cats, birds, and a wide variety of exotic pets. Coverage includes accidents, illnesses, and some wellness care depending on your chosen plan. Pre-existing conditions, hereditary or congenital issues, and pregnancy are excluded, so it’s best to enroll your pet while they are young and healthy.
How are premiums, deductibles, and annual limits determined?
Your premium is based on species, age, breed, selected coverage, deductible, and your location. Annual deductibles typically range from $100 to $500, and annual coverage limits range up to $7,500 or more depending on the plan. The benefit schedule or reimbursement percentage you choose will affect how much you pay out-of-pocket.
Is there a waiting period before coverage begins?
Yes, there is a standard waiting period of at least 14 days from the effective date before illness or accident coverage begins. No claims for illnesses or injuries occurring within this time will be eligible for reimbursement. Wellness coverage, if purchased, may have a shorter or no waiting period.
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