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Is The General Insurance Right for You? Here's What to Know (2026)

The General is one of the most recognized non-standard auto insurers in the United States, known for accepting high-risk drivers that standard carriers decline. Its heavy TV advertising targets drivers with DUIs, accidents, or poor credit who need coverage fast. Here's an honest look at what The General actually offers, what it costs, and whether you have better options in 2026.

The General Insurance overview

The General Insurance (formally Permanent General Assurance Corporation) has operated in the non-standard auto insurance market since 1963. It is one of the most heavily advertised non-standard carriers in the country, targeting drivers who have been declined by standard market insurers due to DUIs, multiple accidents, poor credit, or coverage lapses. The General is available in most U.S. states and offers same-day coverage with SR-22 filings.

The General Insurance estimated rates by driver profile (2026)

Independent market estimates for drivers researching The General Insurance — not provided by or endorsed by the carrier. All figures are approximate national averages from public industry data.

Estimates based on NAIC rate filings and state insurance department data. Not quotes from The General Insurance. Actual premiums are determined solely by the carrier based on your individual underwriting profile.

The General Insurance pros and cons

A closer look at The General Insurance

The General's biggest strength is accessibility — it accepts driver profiles that most carriers won't touch, and it activates coverage quickly. For drivers who genuinely have no standard market options, The General fills that gap. The caution is that heavy advertising creates the impression The General is uniquely positioned in the non-standard market, when in reality it competes directly with Bristol West, Dairyland, Infinity, and Gainsco for the same driver profiles at similar price points. Before defaulting to The General because of brand recognition, comparing quotes across multiple non-standard carriers is essential — The General is not always the cheapest option for a given profile. As with all non-standard policies, the goal should be to maintain clean driving for 12-24 months and re-enter the standard market at dramatically lower rates.

Frequently asked questions about The General Insurance

Disclaimer: ReliablePolicy is an independent lead generation and comparison service and is not affiliated with, authorized by, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected to The General Insurance. All carrier names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used solely for informational and comparison purposes. Rate figures shown are independent market estimates based on publicly available data and are not quotes, representations, or guarantees of pricing by any carrier. By submitting your information, you may be connected with licensed insurance agents or carriers who will provide actual quotes based on your individual profile. Always verify coverage terms and pricing directly with the carrier or a licensed agent.