GEICO is a major auto and home insurer owned by Berkshire Hathaway

GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is a publicly traded insurance company that sells auto, home, renters, motorcycle, and umbrella policies directly to consumers. It is owned by Berkshire Hathaway and operates in all 50 states plus Washington, D.C. GEICO does not use agents — you buy policies online, by phone, or through its mobile app.

The company started in 1936 as an insurer for federal employees and military members, which is where the "Government Employees" name comes from. Today it serves anyone who meets its underwriting standards, not just government workers. GEICO is known for low advertised rates and a straightforward claims process, though actual prices vary widely based on your driving history, location, age, and the coverage you choose.

Key Takeaways

  • GEICO sells auto, home, renters, motorcycle, and umbrella insurance directly without agents, and you can get a quote online in minutes.
  • Auto insurance with GEICO requires you to choose liability limits, collision and comprehensive coverage, and a deductible — each choice affects your monthly premium.
  • GEICO offers discounts for bundling policies, safe driving, completing a defensive driving course, and paying in full rather than monthly.
  • Claims are filed through GEICO's website, app, or phone line, and the company assigns an adjuster who inspects damage and determines what it will pay.
  • GEICO's rates are not fixed — they change based on claims history, driving record changes, and how long you have been a customer.

How GEICO auto insurance pricing works

GEICO quotes are based on your age, driving history, the vehicle you drive, where you live, how much you drive, and the coverage limits you choose. The company uses an algorithm to assign risk, and two people with identical cars and addresses can receive different quotes if their driving records differ. GEICO does not charge higher rates based on age alone, but younger drivers and those with accidents or violations typically pay more.

When you request a quote, GEICO pulls your driving record from your state's motor vehicle department and checks claims history through the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE). The quote is valid for 30 to 60 days, depending on your state. If you purchase a policy, your rate is locked in for six months; after that, GEICO reviews your record and may raise or lower your premium when you renew.

Bundling — buying auto and home insurance together — usually reduces your total cost. GEICO advertises a "multi-policy discount," though the actual savings depend on the policies you choose and your risk profile. Paying your premium in full upfront rather than monthly also typically costs less than paying installments.

What auto coverage options GEICO offers

GEICO sells liability coverage, which pays for damage or injury you cause to someone else. Your state sets a minimum liability limit — for example, 25/50/25 in many states, meaning $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. GEICO lets you choose higher limits, and most financial advisors recommend at least 100/300/100 if you own a home or have assets to protect.

Collision coverage pays to repair or replace your car if you hit another vehicle or object. Comprehensive coverage pays for theft, weather, vandalism, and animal strikes. Both require you to choose a deductible — typically $250, $500, $1,000, or higher. A higher deductible lowers your monthly premium but means you pay more out of pocket if you file a claim. Collision and comprehensive are optional in most states, but required if you finance or lease a vehicle.

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects you if you are hit by a driver without insurance or with insufficient coverage. Medical payments coverage (or personal injury protection in some states) pays your medical bills and lost wages after an accident, regardless of who is at fault. These are optional in most states but required in some.

GEICO discounts and how to find them

GEICO advertises several recurring discounts. A safe driver discount applies if you have no accidents or violations in the past three to five years (the period varies by state). A defensive driving discount requires you to complete an approved defensive driving course — GEICO offers an online course through third-party providers, and completing it can lower your rate by 5 to 10 percent. The discount typically lasts three years.

Bundling auto and home insurance usually saves 15 to 25 percent on your total premium, though GEICO does not always advertise the exact amount. Paying in full rather than monthly saves the installment fee. Low-mileage discounts explore if you drive fewer than a set number of miles per year — you may need to attest to your mileage or use a telematics device. Discounts for good credit, military service, or membership in certain organizations also exist but vary by state.

The only way to see which discounts explore to you is to request a quote. GEICO's website and app show available discounts during the quoting process, and you can ask a representative on the phone which ones you may have access to for before you buy.

How to file a claim with GEICO

You can report a claim through GEICO's website, mobile app, or by calling 1-800-861-8380. For accidents, you will need the other driver's name, phone number, address, insurance information, and vehicle details. For theft or vandalism, you will need a police report number. GEICO asks you to provide photos of damage if possible, though you can submit these later.

After you file, GEICO assigns a claims adjuster who contacts you to schedule an inspection. The adjuster examines the damage, reviews repair estimates, and determines what GEICO will pay based on your coverage and deductible. If you choose a repair shop, GEICO may work directly with that shop. If you use one of GEICO's network shops, the process is often faster because the shop and insurer have an established relationship.

Most claims are resolved within two to four weeks, though complex cases take longer. If you disagree with GEICO's decision, you can request a review or file a complaint with your state's insurance commissioner. GEICO is required to respond to complaints within a set timeframe, which varies by state.

GEICO home and renters insurance

GEICO homeowners insurance covers the structure of your home, personal property inside it, liability if someone is injured on your property, and additional living expenses if you cannot stay in your home due to a covered loss. Like auto insurance, you choose a deductible and coverage limits. The premium depends on your home's age, construction, location, claims history, and the coverage you select.

Renters insurance covers your personal belongings, liability, and additional living expenses if you cannot stay in your rental unit. It does not cover the building itself — that is the landlord's responsibility. Renters insurance is much cheaper than homeowners insurance and is often required by landlords. GEICO bundles it with auto insurance for a discount.

When GEICO may deny a claim or cancel your policy

GEICO can deny a claim if the loss is not covered under your policy — for example, if you have comprehensive coverage but not collision, GEICO will not pay for a crash you caused. GEICO can also deny a claim if you misrepresented information on your process, such as your annual mileage or the primary driver of the vehicle. If GEICO discovers fraud, it may cancel your policy and refuse to renew.

GEICO can cancel your policy for non-payment, too many claims, or a significant change in risk — such as a major accident or violation. Your state's insurance laws set rules for how much notice GEICO must give before canceling. Most states require at least 10 to 30 days' written notice. If GEICO cancels you, you may have trouble finding affordable coverage elsewhere, so paying your premium on time and driving safely are important.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a GEICO quote?

A quote takes 5 to 15 minutes online or through the app if you have your driver's license and vehicle information ready. Over the phone, a representative can provide a quote in 10 to 20 minutes. The quote is valid for 30 to 60 days depending on your state.

Can I switch to GEICO if I have a bad driving record?

GEICO will quote you even with accidents or violations on your record, though your premium will be higher. Some drivers with serious violations or multiple claims may be declined, but GEICO's underwriting is generally less restrictive than some competitors. Request a quote to find out.

What happens if I get into an accident and I am at fault?

If you are at fault, your collision coverage pays to repair your car (minus your deductible). Your liability coverage pays for damage to the other vehicle and any injuries. Your rate will likely increase at your next renewal, and the accident may stay on your record for three to five years depending on your state.

Does GEICO offer roadside information?

GEICO offers roadside information as an optional add-on, covering towing, lockouts, fuel delivery, and jump-starts. The cost is typically $3 to $8 per month. You can also purchase roadside coverage through your auto club or credit card.

Can I change my coverage or deductible mid-policy?

Yes. You can log into your GEICO account online or call to adjust your coverage, deductible, or other details. Changes take effect when ready or on a date you choose. If you lower your deductible, your premium increases; if you raise it, your premium decreases.