What PEMCO Insurance Is

PEMCO is a regional auto and home insurance company owned by Kemper Corporation and based in Seattle, Washington. It sells car, motorcycle, home, and umbrella insurance primarily in Washington and Oregon, though it also operates in Idaho, California, and Nevada. PEMCO is not a government program — it is a private insurance company that competes with national carriers like State Farm, Geico, and Progressive.

The company was founded in 1947 as a mutual insurer owned by its policyholders, and it maintained that structure until 2007, when Kemper acquired it. Today PEMCO operates as a subsidiary of Kemper, which is a publicly traded insurance holding company. Understanding this ownership matters because it shapes how PEMCO sets rates, handles claims, and invests policyholder money.

PEMCO markets itself as a regional carrier that understands Pacific Northwest driving conditions and weather patterns. It emphasizes local customer service and has physical offices in Washington and Oregon where you can meet with agents in person. This regional focus is one reason some drivers choose PEMCO over national competitors.

Key Takeaways

  • PEMCO is a private insurance company owned by Kemper Corporation, not a government agency, and it sells auto, home, motorcycle, and umbrella coverage in five western states.
  • Auto insurance through PEMCO includes liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist coverage, with rates that vary based on your driving record, age, location, and the vehicle you drive.
  • PEMCO offers discounts for bundling policies, maintaining a clean driving record, completing defensive driving courses, and installing safety devices in your vehicle.
  • You can get a quote from PEMCO online, by phone, or through a local agent, and you can switch to PEMCO at any time during your policy year.
  • Claims are filed through PEMCO's website, mobile app, or by calling their claims line, and the company typically assigns an adjuster within one business day.

How PEMCO Auto Insurance Coverage Works

PEMCO auto insurance is built from several types of coverage that you can mix and match depending on your needs and state requirements. Liability coverage pays for damage or injury you cause to someone else in an accident — this is required by law in Washington and Oregon. PEMCO lets you choose your liability limits, typically ranging from the state minimum (which varies) up to $500,000 or more per accident.

Collision coverage pays to repair or replace your own vehicle if you hit another car, object, or structure. Comprehensive coverage pays for damage from events you cannot control — theft, weather, vandalism, animal strikes, or falling objects. Both collision and comprehensive come with a deductible, usually $250, $500, or $1,000, that you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in.

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects you if you are hit by a driver who has no insurance or not enough insurance to cover your damages. This coverage is required in Washington and optional in Oregon, though PEMCO recommends it in both states. Medical payments coverage (sometimes called MedPay) pays your medical bills after an accident, regardless of who was at fault, up to your chosen limit.

PEMCO Home Insurance and Other Policies

PEMCO homeowners insurance covers the structure of your home, your personal belongings 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, homeowners policies come with a deductible — commonly $500, $1,000, or higher — that you choose when you buy the policy.

The company also sells renters insurance, which covers your belongings and liability if you rent an apartment or house, and condo insurance, which fills gaps between what the building's master policy covers and what you need to protect. PEMCO offers umbrella insurance as well, which provides extra liability coverage beyond the limits of your auto or home policy — useful if you have significant assets to protect.

Motorcycle insurance through PEMCO covers bikes, scooters, and ATVs with options for liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist coverage similar to auto policies. Rates depend on the bike's value, your riding experience, and whether you have taken a motorcycle safety course.

Discounts and How to Lower Your PEMCO Premium

PEMCO offers several discounts that can reduce your premium. Multi-policy bundling — combining auto and home insurance, for example — typically saves 10 to 15 percent, though the exact amount varies by state and your specific policies. A good driving record discount applies if you have had no accidents or violations in a set period, usually three to five years depending on the discount.

Completing a defensive driving course can earn you a discount on auto insurance, and some courses are offered online. Installing safety devices in your vehicle — such as anti-theft systems or collision avoidance technology — may also lower your rate. PEMCO offers discounts for paperless billing, paying your full premium upfront instead of in installments, and being a long-term customer.

Some discounts are automatic when you meet the criteria; others require you to ask for them or provide proof (like a defensive driving certificate). When you get a quote or review your policy, ask PEMCO directly which discounts you currently receive and which ones you might be missing.

Getting a Quote and Switching to PEMCO

You can get a PEMCO quote online at pemco.com, by calling 1-800-PEMCO-INS (1-800-736-2646), or by visiting a local PEMCO office in Washington or Oregon. Online quotes typically take 10 to 15 minutes and require information about your driving history, the vehicle you drive, and your current coverage. Phone quotes allow you to ask questions in real time, and in-person meetings let you review options with an agent face-to-face.

PEMCO does not require you to switch on any particular date. You can move to PEMCO at any point during your current policy year — you do not have to wait for your renewal date. When you switch, PEMCO will coordinate with your old insurer to make sure there is no gap in coverage. Be aware that PEMCO may request your driving record from your state's Department of Licensing, and it will verify information you provide during the quote process.

If you are switching from another insurer, bring your current policy documents so you can compare coverage limits and deductibles side by side. This helps you avoid accidentally reducing your coverage when you move to PEMCO, even if the premium is lower.

Filing a Claim with PEMCO

If you have an accident or loss, you can file a claim with PEMCO through three main channels: online at pemco.com, through the PEMCO mobile app, or by calling the claims line at 1-800-PEMCO-INS. For accidents involving another vehicle, you should also contact local police and get the other driver's insurance information and contact details if possible.

When you file a claim, PEMCO typically assigns an adjuster within one business day. The adjuster will contact you to schedule an inspection of the damage, answer questions about what happened, and explain next steps. For auto claims, PEMCO has a network of preferred repair shops, but you can use any licensed repair facility — PEMCO will work with your chosen shop to estimate and pay for repairs.

The time from filing to settlement varies depending on the complexity of the claim. straightforward claims with clear liability may be resolved in days; complex claims involving multiple vehicles, injuries, or disputes over fault can take weeks or months. PEMCO publishes average claim resolution times on its website, broken down by claim type.

PEMCO's Financial Stability and Customer Service

PEMCO is backed by Kemper Corporation, a large insurance holding company with a financial strength rating from agencies like A.M. Best. You can check Kemper's current rating on A.M. Best's website to confirm the company's ability to pay claims. This matters because you want assurance that if you file a major claim, the insurer has the money to pay it.

Customer service is available by phone during business hours and through online chat on PEMCO's website. The company also has local agents in Washington and Oregon who can help with policy questions, billing issues, or claims. PEMCO publishes customer complaint data with state insurance regulators, which you can review if you want to see how the company handles disputes compared to competitors.

PEMCO's regional focus means it may not be the cheapest option for every driver, but some customers find value in local service, familiarity with regional weather and road conditions, and the ability to meet with an agent in person. Comparing quotes from PEMCO and at least two national carriers will show you how its rates stack up for your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy PEMCO insurance if I live outside Washington and Oregon?

PEMCO also operates in Idaho, California, and Nevada, so you may be able to buy coverage in those states. Check PEMCO's website or call 1-800-PEMCO-INS to confirm whether it writes policies in your state. In states where PEMCO does not operate, you will need to choose a different insurer.

What happens to my PEMCO policy if I move to another state?

If you move to a state where PEMCO operates, your policy can usually be transferred with updated rates for your new location. If you move to a state where PEMCO does not write insurance, your policy will end, and you will need to find a new insurer. Contact PEMCO at least 30 days before your move to discuss your options.

Does PEMCO offer discounts for electric vehicles?

PEMCO offers discounts for certain safety features and technology, which may include features common in electric vehicles. Ask PEMCO directly whether your specific vehicle qualifies for any discounts related to its type or safety systems.

How do I cancel my PEMCO policy?

You can cancel by calling PEMCO, visiting a local office, or submitting a cancellation request online. Most cancellations take effect on the date you request, though PEMCO may require written notice. Ask about any penalties or refunds due if you cancel before your policy renewal date.

What is PEMCO's process if I disagree with a claim decision?

If you dispute a claim denial or settlement amount, you can file a complaint with PEMCO's customer service department. If PEMCO does not resolve the dispute to your satisfaction, you can file a complaint with your state's insurance commissioner, who can investigate and mediate the disagreement.