Allstate vs The General
Last updated July 2026
Allstate
You're in good hands
Advantages
- Enormous agent network for in-person quotes, service, and claims support
- Drivewise telematics rewards safe driving without raising base rates for tracked risk
- Deep bundling discounts across auto, home, life, and umbrella
- Accident forgiveness and new-car replacement available as add-ons
- Strong financial strength ratings and long claims history
Drawbacks
- Base rates are typically higher than Progressive for average drivers
- Digital quoting is functional but less streamlined than Progressive
- Discount stacking can feel opaque without an agent walking you through it
The General
Coverage for drivers who need to get back on the road
Advantages
- Approves drivers other carriers reject, DUI, SR-22, lapses in coverage
- Instant SR-22 filing available in most states, often same-day
- Low upfront down payment options make it easy to get started
- Simple online quote and purchase, no agent required
- Payment flexibility including monthly and bi-weekly plans
Drawbacks
- Base rates are among the highest in the industry for its underwriting pool
- Coverage limits and add-ons more limited than mainstream carriers
- Customer satisfaction scores consistently trail Progressive and Geico
- Claims service reviews are mixed, expect longer resolution times
Allstate and The General both play in auto insurance, but they're aimed at different buyers. Allstate is built for homeowners who want to bundle policies and prefer working with a local agent. The General is built for drivers with DUIs, SR-22 requirements, or lapses in coverage who need proof of insurance fast. Which one fits depends on which of those descriptions sounds more like you.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Allstate | The General |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Monthly Cost | Avg $150-$210/mo before bundling discounts | Avg $180-$300/mo for high-risk profiles |
| Quote Process | Local agent, online, or phone | Online, phone, no agent |
| Available Discounts | Drivewise, multi-policy, safe driver, early signing, new car | Multi-vehicle, safe driver over time, prior insurance |
| Claims Experience | Agent-assisted, QuickFoto app, 24/7 phone | Phone or online submission |
| Customer Support | Local agents, phone, app, online | Phone, online, limited hours |
| Coverage Options | Full line, liability, collision, comprehensive, umbrella, rideshare | Liability, collision, comprehensive, SR-22 filing |
| Mobile App Quality | Good, claims, Drivewise, ID cards, roadside | Basic, ID cards, payments, claim start |
| Bundling Options | Auto, home, renters, life, umbrella, motorcycle | Auto only, limited bundling options |
Allstate Wins
Allstate takes it overall (8/10 vs 6/10), but The General is still the sharper pick for drivers with DUIs, SR-22 requirements, or lapses in coverage who need proof of insurance fast.
Allstate's standout strength: Enormous agent network for in-person quotes, service, and claims support. Its biggest drawback (base rates are typically higher than Progressive for average drivers) is easier to live with than The General's (base rates are among the highest in the industry for its underwriting pool). The General isn't out of the running though — its own standout strength is approves drivers other carriers reject, DUI, SR-22, lapses in coverage. If you fit the profile of drivers with DUIs, SR-22 requirements, or lapses in coverage who need proof of insurance fast, that alone can flip the decision.
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