MetLife Pet Insurance is a relatively new player in the pet insurance industry, having entered the market in 2020 after acquiring PetFirst, a pet insurance company with 15 years of experience. As a subsidiary of the well-known insurance provider MetLife, MetLife Pet brings a level of credibility and financial stability to the pet insurance market. In our in-depth analysis and rating methodology, we found that MetLife Pet earned a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars.
One of the standout features of MetLife Pet insurance is its accident-and-illness plan, which covers almost all veterinary care without additional fees. This comprehensive coverage sets MetLife Pet apart from other providers who may charge extra for certain treatments. Additionally, MetLife Pet offers a unique option to cover multiple pets under a single policy, with one deductible and annual limit for all pets. This multi-pet feature is a rare find in the pet insurance industry and can be a significant cost-saving benefit for pet owners with multiple furry companions.
Another attractive feature of MetLife Pet insurance is its policy on pre-existing conditions. While most pet insurance providers do not cover pre-existing conditions, MetLife Pet offers a waiver for pet owners who switch from another provider. This waiver guarantees coverage for any condition that was covered under the previous plan, providing peace of mind for pet owners who are considering a switch.
However, one downside to MetLife Pet insurance is its pricing, which tends to be higher than average compared to other providers. The cost of a policy can vary depending on factors such as your pet’s species, age, breed, and location, as well as the underwriter of the policy. MetLife Pet has two underwriters, MetGen and Independent American Insurance Company (IAIC), which can result in variations in waiting periods, coverage limits, and wellness plan options. It is recommended to contact MetLife Pet directly to clarify policy details before making a decision.
In terms of coverage, MetLife Pet offers a comprehensive accident-and-illness plan with a wide range of covered treatments and services. The plan includes coverage for accidents, injuries, illnesses, diagnostic tests, emergency boarding fees, prescription drugs, surgery, and more. Additionally, MetLife Pet offers an optional wellness plan that covers preventive care services as part of the base accident-and-illness plan.
Customization options are another strong suit of MetLife Pet insurance. Pet owners can choose from a range of deductibles, reimbursement rates, and annual limits to tailor their coverage to their specific needs and budget. Deductibles range from $0 to $2,500, reimbursement rates range from 50% to 90%, and annual limits range from $500 to $25,000. MetLife Pet also offers discounts for healthcare workers, first responders, active and veteran military members, pet care workers, and employer-sponsored plans.
The signup, claims filing, and payout processes with MetLife Pet insurance are relatively straightforward, although it is recommended to speak with an agent to fully understand all policy options and discounts available. Claims can be filed online, via phone, text, email, fax, or regular mail, with most claims processed and paid within about two weeks. However, some customers have reported longer wait times for claims processing, so it is advisable to proactively obtain and send all relevant medical records to expedite the process.
In terms of waiting periods and age restrictions, MetLife Pet offers same-day coverage for accidents and wellness services, with a 14-day waiting period for illnesses. There is no upper age limit for enrollment, making MetLife Pet a good choice for senior pets. Additionally, there is no minimum age for enrollment, allowing pet owners to insure pets of all ages.
Customer reviews for MetLife Pet insurance are mixed, with some customers praising the comprehensive coverage and multi-pet options, while others have raised concerns about policy terms and coverage details. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of the policy and reach out to MetLife Pet for clarification if needed.
In conclusion, MetLife Pet insurance offers a comprehensive accident-and-illness plan with unique features such as multi-pet coverage and pre-existing condition waivers. While pricing may be higher than average, the customization options and comprehensive coverage make MetLife Pet a strong contender in the pet insurance market. It is recommended to compare MetLife Pet insurance to other top competitors to determine which provider offers the features that best suit your needs and budget.