If you’re a pet owner in New Jersey, you know that unexpected vet bills can be a significant financial burden. Pet insurance can help alleviate this stress by reimbursing a portion of your veterinary expenses. NerdWallet has compiled rates and assessed plans from over a dozen insurance companies to help you find the best pet insurance options in the Garden State.
Top Pet Insurance Providers in New Jersey
Here are some of the top-rated pet insurance providers in New Jersey:
- Embrace: Best overall.
- Liberty Mutual: Best budget pick for dogs.
- Lemonade: Best budget pick for cats.
- ASPCA: Best for comprehensive coverage.
How NerdWallet Evaluates Pet Insurance
NerdWallet’s rating system takes several factors into account, rewarding pet insurance companies that offer broad coverage, flexible plan customization, strong financial stability, and positive customer experiences. Each insurer’s rating is calculated using a curved 5-point scale. You can find more detailed information about the rating methodology.
Best Overall: Embrace
Embrace consistently receives high marks due to its comprehensive and customizable policies. The standard accident and illness plan covers various expenses, including alternative therapies, behavioral consultations, and treatment for dental illnesses. These expenses are often excluded by other insurers, but are covered by Embrace. For even more extensive coverage, consider the preventive care package which can reimburse you for routine expenses like vaccinations and prescription food. Embrace policyholders also have access to 24/7 telehealth services, so you can get answers to questions about your pet’s health any time of day.
- NerdWallet Rating: 5.0/5
- Annual Max Coverage: Unlimited
- Reimbursement Rates: 70%, 80%, 90%
- Deductibles: $100 – $1,000
Pros:
- Covers curable pre-existing conditions.
- Offers many customization options.
- Orthopedic waiting period can be reduced with a vet exam.
Cons:
- Doesn’t cover prescription food or supplements unless you buy a wellness plan.
Best Budget Pick for Dogs: Liberty Mutual
Liberty Mutual is a great option for dog owners seeking affordable pet insurance. The company offers three different plans, allowing you to customize your coverage to match your dog’s needs. Liberty Mutual also provides discounts, including those for existing policyholders, active military, and veterans.
- NerdWallet Rating: 4.5/5
- Annual Max Coverage: $15,000
- Reimbursement Rates: 70%, 80%, 90%
- Deductibles: $250, $500, $1,000
Pros:
- Offers three plan options to choose from.
- Provides discounts for existing customers, active military, and veterans.
- Covers behavioral therapy and alternative medicine in most states.
Cons:
- Won’t pay your vet directly.
- May not cover osteoarthritis.
- No unlimited coverage option available.
Best Budget Pick for Cats: Lemonade
Lemonade is an attractive choice for cat owners looking for affordable and easy-to-manage pet insurance. Known for its user-friendly online experience, Lemonade offers quick claims processing. In fact, approximately 40% of claims are paid instantly via the Lemonade app.
- NerdWallet Rating: 4.0/5
- Annual Max Coverage: $100,000
- Reimbursement Rates: 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%
- Deductibles: $100 – $750
Pros:
- Quick claims processing.
- Multipolicy and pay-in-full discounts are available.
- They donate a portion of premiums to nonprofit organizations.
Cons:
- Not available in all states.
- Coverage for physical therapy, acupuncture, and chiropractic care costs extra.
Best for Comprehensive Coverage: ASPCA
If you desire comprehensive coverage, the ASPCA is a solid choice. Its accident and illness plan provides expansive coverage, including reimbursement for prescription food and supplements, behavioral issues, alternative therapies, dental diseases, and even microchipping. The ASPCA also covers treatment for most curable pre-existing conditions that have been symptom- and treatment-free for at least 180 days. The company also offers an accident-only plan for more affordable coverage.
- NerdWallet Rating: 5.0/5
- Annual Max Coverage: Unlimited
- Reimbursement Rates: 70%, 80%, 90%
- Deductibles: $100, $250, $500
Pros:
- Covers horses in addition to cats and dogs.
- Standard plans cover alternative therapies, behavioral issues, and congenital conditions.
- Shorter waiting period than most plans for cruciate injuries (14 days).
Cons:
- You must call, rather than get an online quote, if you’re interested in unlimited annual coverage.
Finding the right pet insurance policy is critical to protecting your pets and your wallet. It’s wise to get multiple quotes and carefully review the details of each plan to determine the best fit for your needs. Consider these recommendations from NerdWallet as you explore your options for pet insurance in New Jersey.
