After sticking with USAA for two decades, I finally decided to hand my info over to an insurance broker to find something better. Told the USAA rep, and she didn’t even try to change my mind. In all that time, I never once filed a claim. I wonder how much money I basically threw away.
I was with USAA for 10 years but decided to shop around after my rates doubled following a divorce and a short move. My first call was to Erie, and my rate dropped from $2400 to $1030 a year for better auto coverage. Condo insurance went from $850 to $400. If you feel like USAA is overcharging, it’s worth making a few calls—you might be shocked at the savings.
@Jules
Thanks for sharing! I thought my increase was just because of an accident and a ticket. No harm in checking other options.
USAA retained 96% of its policies last year, leading the industry. Most new members switched over from GEICO, Progressive, and State Farm. 
Zuri said:
USAA retained 96% of its policies last year, leading the industry. Most new members switched over from GEICO, Progressive, and State Farm.
I actually just left State Farm for USAA and ended up saving money with the same coverage. When I worked as a service advisor, USAA was always the easiest company to deal with. State Farm adjusters, on the other hand, always tried to cut corners.
@Yani
Same here!
For those switching because of high rates, keep a few things in mind:
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Every major insurance company is raising rates this year. The fires in California have had a huge impact across the industry. Companies need to cover their losses and stay within federal financial regulations.
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New customers often get a lower rate to lure them in. After a couple of years, your rate will likely be back at the standard level—or even higher.
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If you want to lower your USAA premium, consider raising your deductible. If you wouldn’t file a claim for a $1500 repair, why keep a $500 deductible?
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Complaints about USAA (or any insurer) online aren’t always accurate. Rates can go up for lots of reasons—higher theft in your area, state regulations, or a general increase in claims. Some people also have unrealistic expectations of what insurance is actually for.
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If you’ve been putting off replacing your 15-year-old roof and hoping for a hailstorm to get it covered—think again. Since 2015, most companies no longer cover old roofs unless they’ve sustained actual damage. Insurance isn’t a bank account; it’s there for real losses, not maintenance.
@Clive
USAA wanted $7K a year. Progressive gave me the same coverage for $3.8K. Even if my new rate goes up 20%, I’m still saving big. I checked twice to be sure. USAA has lost its mind.
Terry said:
@Clive
USAA wanted $7K a year. Progressive gave me the same coverage for $3.8K. Even if my new rate goes up 20%, I’m still saving big. I checked twice to be sure. USAA has lost its mind.
I pay $624 per year for two cars with full coverage at USAA. Been a member for 30 years.
Terry said:
@Clive
USAA wanted $7K a year. Progressive gave me the same coverage for $3.8K. Even if my new rate goes up 20%, I’m still saving big. I checked twice to be sure. USAA has lost its mind.
Did you compare the full policy details? The coverage might look the same, but every insurer has different exclusions and fine print. People love saying it’s the same, but contracts vary.
@Clive
Facts! 100% agree.
@Clive
My Progressive policy costs me annually what USAA was charging me every month. They could double my rate, and I’d still be paying less than I did at USAA.
@Clive
Points 1-4 aren’t accurate, especially the first and fourth.
Bailey said:
@Clive
Points 1-4 aren’t accurate, especially the first and fourth.
Actually, #1 is true. #4 is up for debate, but how can you be sure that every online complaint is accurate? And man, why are you still playing those mobile games from TikTok ads?
@Darby
I’ve literally seen people complain that USAA doesn’t price match… which is illegal in the insurance industry. Some complaints just aren’t valid.
Bailey said:
@Clive
Points 1-4 aren’t accurate, especially the first and fourth.
Explain why you think #1 is false. Do you think the California fires won’t impact rates? I have a feeling you don’t know how reinsurance works.
My USAA premium is jumping from $2900 to $3600 for six months on four cars (one is in storage). Amica quoted me $5000 for the same coverage. Progressive won’t insure me at all because of my EV.
I’ve been with USAA for 27 years, but I’m slowly moving away from them. Their banking side isn’t great either—terrible savings rates.
Filed a claim for clear storm damage. USAA says it’s ‘natural wear and tear.’ Been with them 20+ years… what a joke.
You paid for ‘insurance.’ That’s exactly what you got.
You didn’t waste money. You paid for peace of mind.