State Farm vs The General
Last updated July 2026
State Farm
Like a good neighbor
Advantages
- Largest agent network in the U.S. for in-person service
- Deep bundling discounts when you combine auto, home, and life
- Strong financial stability ratings and long claims track record
- Drive Safe & Save telematics program for additional discounts
- Available in all 50 states
Drawbacks
- Base rates are not primarily behavior-based without opting into telematics
- Quoting and policy management can feel dated compared to app-first insurers
- Rates vary heavily by state and can be above average in some markets
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
State Farm and The General both play in auto insurance, but they're aimed at different buyers. State Farm is built for drivers who value agent relationships and want to bundle multiple policies. 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 | State Farm | The General |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Monthly Cost | Avg $120-$180/mo; heavy discount stacking | Avg $180-$300/mo for high-risk profiles |
| Quote Process | Online, phone, or in-person with agent | Online, phone, no agent |
| Available Discounts | Multi-policy, good student, defensive driving, telematics | Multi-vehicle, safe driver over time, prior insurance |
| Claims Experience | Agent-assisted, app, phone, 24/7 hotline | 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, ID cards, payments | Basic, ID cards, payments, claim start |
| Bundling Options | Auto, home, renters, life, umbrella | Auto only, limited bundling options |
State Farm Wins
State Farm 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.
State Farm's standout strength: Largest agent network in the U.S. for in-person service. Its biggest drawback (base rates are not primarily behavior-based without opting into telematics) 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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