Pets Best and Figo are both known for offering comprehensive pet insurance at competitive prices. But after trying both, I had the chance to experience their coverage, customer service, and claims processing firsthand. Which one really lives up to its reputation? Does one stand out in terms of customizations or claim speed?
In this comparison, I’ll share my personal experience and break down how each company performs in key areas like coverage, customer service, and pricing. While I can’t say one is perfect for every pet, I’ll give you the insights you need to decide which might be the best fit for your unique situation.
  |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Star Rating | 5.0/5.0 | 4.9/5.0 |
| Our Ranking | Best Overall | Value |
| Year Founded | 2005 | 2013 |
| Customer Support Options | Live Chat, Phone, Email, Mail, Fax | Text, Phone, Email, Fax, Live Chat |
| Underwriter | Independence American Insurance Company American Pet Insurance Company (New York & Washington only) | Independence American Insurance Company Markel American Insurance Company Markel Insurance Company |
| A.M. Best Rating* | A- Unrated | A- A A |
| Demotech Rating* | A’ | Not Rated |
| Claim Processing Average | 10 Days | 3 Days |
| Can Reimburse Vets Directly | Yes | No |
| Payout Limits | $5,000 to Unlimited | $5,000 to Unlimited |
| Deductibles | $50 to $1,000 | $100 to $750 |
| Reimbursement Rates | 70% to 90% | 70% to 100% |
| One-Time Fees | No | $15 (not in all states) |
| Accident Waiting Period | 14 Days | 1 Days |
| Illness Waiting Period | 3 Days | 14 Days |
| Hip Dysplasia Waiting Period | 14 Days | 6 Months |
| Enrollment Ages | 7 Weeks or Older | 8 Weeks & Older |
| Preventative Plan | Yes | Yes |
 | |
*States are gradually adopting a Model Law for pet insurance, aiming to standardize regulations, including uniform waiting periods. In California, Delaware, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Washington, Rhode Island, and Maryland, waiting periods are:
- Accidents: 0 days
- Illnesses: 14 days
- Cruciate Ligament Conditions: 30 days
- Routine Care: 0 days
Coverage Comparison
Pets Best and Figo offer comprehensive accident and illness coverage with a variety of plans and customizable options in all 50 states. The plans cover testing and treatment for newly diagnosed injuries and illnesses.
They also include emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, specialized exams, advanced diagnostics procedures like blood tests, ultrasounds, CT scans, X-rays, and MRIs, as well as treatment for cancer, chronic conditions, congenital and hereditary conditions, non-routine dental procedures, prescription medications, and more. However, pre-existing conditions, breeding*, pregnancy, and elective cosmetic procedures—such as ear cropping, dew claw removal, and tail docking—are excluded from coverage by both providers.
*Figo is one of the only providers to cover complications from breeding, but only if the breeding falls after the fourteenth day after the effective date of your initial policy.
In terms of waiting periods, Pets Best has a longer waiting period for accidents (3 days) compared to Figo’s 1 day and both companies have a 14-day wait for illnesses.
Pets Best provides three accident and illness plans—Essential, Plus, and Elite—allowing customers to choose the coverage that best fits their needs. The Plus plan covers exam fees, while the Elite plan adds coverage for chiropractic, acupuncture, and rehabilitation. Additionally, Pets Best offers optional wellness plans for preventive care.
Figo, on the other hand, offers a single comprehensive plan with two optional riders (Powerups) that can be added for an additional cost. The Vet Exam Fees Powerup covers the cost of exam fees for covered accidents and illnesses. On average, pet owners spend $93 per vet visit on exam fees, so this can save a chunk of money over time. Figo’s Powerup, called Wellness, includes routine care coverage like dental cleanings, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, heartworm prevention, and more.
When it comes to dental coverage, Pets Best stands out with more extensive options, covering gum disease, tooth extractions for dental accidents and illnesses, developmental abnormalities for pets enrolled before 6 months old, and endodontic disease for canines and carnassials. Figo also provides dental coverage but does not include tooth extractions due to illnesses or developmental abnormalities.
For pre-existing conditions, Pets Best offers some flexibility by covering curable pre-existing conditions that require no further treatment, while Figo covers curable pre-existing conditions if no signs or symptoms have been present within the last year.
| Coverage | | |
|---|---|---|
| Behavioral Therapy | Base Plan | Base Plan |
| Complementary Care | Add-On | Base Plan |
| Wellness Care For An Extra Fee | Yes | Yes |
| Exam Fees | Add-On | Add-On |
| Hip Dysplasia | After 14 Days | After 6 Months |
| Non-Routine Dental Treatment | Base Plan | Base Plan |
| Trauma To Teeth, Face, & Jaw | Base Plan | Base Plan |
| Gum (Periodontal) Disease | Base Plan | Base Plan |
| Tooth Extractions | Base Plan | Due To Accidents |
| Endodontic Disease | Canines & Carnassials | Base Plan |
| Developmental Abnormalities | If Enrolled By 6 Months Old |  |
Premiums & Pricing
Insurers calculate premiums based on your pet’s details—such as age, breed, and location—along with the coverage level you select. Pets Best and Figo typically offer more affordable premiums compared to other insurers, although the exact price can vary depending on your choices.
Both Pets Best and Figo have annual deductibles, meaning at the most, you’ll pay the deductible once per year, no matter how many incidents your pet experiences. This structure can be helpful if your pet experiences multiple accidents or illnesses in a year.
Both companies charge a $2 monthly transaction fee, which can be avoided by paying annually. The exact premiums for each provider depend on various factors, including your pet’s age, breed, and location. Both companies offer flexible plans tailored to different budgets and coverage needs, with different pricing depending on the coverage options you select.
| Pet Details | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| French Bulldog | $94.20* | $89.08* | $189.46** | $144.46** |
| Labrador Retriever | $32.82* | $57.80* | $66.00** | $85.46** |
| Golden Retriever | $41.07 | $52.66* | $78.41** | $80.54** |
| Ragdoll Cat | $20.90* | $20.97* | $42.06** | $32.05** |
French Bulldog is a 6-month-old male in the 92121 zip code (San Diego, CA).
Labrador Retriever is a 2-year-old female in the 14211 zip code (Buffalo, NY).
Golden Retriever is a 4-year-old male in the 33604 zip code (Tampa, FL).
Ragdoll Cat is a 5-year-old female in the 78040 zip code (Laredo, TX).
* 90% reimbursement and $500 deductible; ** 90% reimbursement and $100 deductible
It’s always best to get quotes for your specific dog to compare pet insurance costs. You can use our pet insurance quote form below to request instant quotes from multiple companies.
Discounts
Pet insurance providers sometimes offer discounts to pet owners who insure more than one pet, bundle other insurance policies, are military or veterans, work as a veterinarian, work at an animal shelter, pay yearly, and more. Pets Best offers 5% off to military personnel and their families, as well as pet owners insuring multiple pets. On the other hand, Figo gives our Canine Journal readers 5% off their policy by using this link. Additionally, you can get 5% off for multiple pets, and for each year you don’t receive a claim payment, your deductible automatically goes down $50.
Customer Service & Reputation
When considering pet insurance, it’s easy to be drawn to a low-cost policy, but customer service and reputation are essential factors to keep in mind. Whether you’re paying a high or low premium, you want a provider that’s responsive and helpful when you need assistance, especially when it comes time to file a claim.
Both Pets Best and Figo offer multiple support channels, including phone, live chat, fax, and email. Both companies also provide a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you peace of mind to cancel and receive a full refund if the policy doesn’t meet your needs—provided no claims have been filed or benefits used.
I reviewed numerous customer reviews from platforms like Yelp, Trustpilot, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for both providers. Pets Best frequently receives praise for its flexible plans and affordable premiums. However, some customers report delays in claim processing and reimbursement. In contrast, Figo is known for its user-friendly app and quick claim processing, but clients often complain about denied claims due to unclear explanations. Both companies actively respond to customer inquiries online, showcasing their commitment to resolving issues and maintaining a good reputation.
Ultimately, both Pets Best and Figo have their strengths and areas for improvement in customer service. Choosing the right provider depends on your priorities—whether you value quicker claim processing or more flexible plan options.
Claim Processing
The time it takes for an insurer to reimburse claims can be a key consideration for pet owners when selecting coverage. Some pet owners are comfortable waiting a little longer for reimbursement, while others prefer faster processing. Pets Best has made significant improvements recently by processing claims in about 10 days. In contrast, Figo has a quicker turnaround, averaging just 3 days for reimbursement, which gives it an advantage for pet owners who prioritize speed.
Pets Best offers multiple submission methods, including its customer portal and mobile app, while Figo provides flexibility through its Pet Cloud app, email, or fax. Reimbursements from both providers can be made via direct deposit or mailed checks, offering convenience to policyholders. For those who need quicker options or alternative payment methods, Figo’s faster processing time may be a more appealing choice.
Additionally, Pets Best offers a feature that allows for direct payments to veterinarians, which can be convenient for those who prefer not to wait for a reimbursement. It’s essential, however, to verify with your vet that they can accommodate this payment method before assuming it’s available.
Plan Coverage Options
Pets Best and Figo both offer a range of customizable options for their pet insurance plans, allowing pet owners to tailor coverage to suit their needs and budgets. Pets Best provides flexibility with annual deductibles ranging from $50 to $1,000, annual payout limits from $5,000 to unlimited, and reimbursement rates of 70%, 80%, or 90%. Figo offers similar options, with deductibles from $100 to $750, annual payout limits starting at $5,000 and going up to unlimited, and reimbursement rates ranging from 70% to an impressive 100%.
For those seeking more affordable coverage, Pets Best also includes an accident-only plan, which covers injuries from sudden accidents like broken bones or foreign body ingestion but excludes illnesses and conditions like cruciate ligament tears. Figo, on the other hand, does not offer a standalone accident-only policy but provides an option for full reimbursement, making it ideal for pet owners seeking more money back on their vet bills. Both companies offer a high degree of flexibility.
| | |
|---|---|---|
| Pet Age | 7 weeks and older | 8 weeks and older |
| Annual Payout Limit | $5,000, $10,000, Unlimited | $5,000, $10,000, Unlimited |
| Deductible Options | $50, $100, $200, $250, $500, $1,000 | $100, $250, $500, $750 |
| Reimbursement Options | 70%, 80%, 90% | 70%, 80%, 90%, 100% |
| Optional Wellness Plans |  | |
| Accident-Only Plan | |
My Experience With Pets Best & Figo
I searched for pet insurance for my 9-year-old Coonhound mix, Sally, and received quotes from ten companies. Figo offered the most affordable plan, followed by Pets Best.
| Company | Deductible | Reimbursement | Payout Limit | Monthly Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $500 | 80% | $5,000 | $70.22 |
 | $500 | 80% | $5,000 | $100.78 |
 | $1,000 | 50% | Unlimited | $163.62 |
 | $500 | 80% | $5,000 | $104.86 |
| $500 | 80% | $5,000 | $59.68 |
 | – | – | – | Uninsurable |
 | $500 | 90% | Unlimited | $190.50 |
 | $500 | 80% | $5,000 | $76.49 |
 | $500 | 80% | $5,000 | $70.27 |
 | $500 | 80% | $5,000 | $40.84 (Accident Only) |
Lemonade said they couldn’t insure my dog at this time after I filled out their quote form.
My dog was too old for Nationwide’s illness coverage.
I enrolled Sally with Figo, as their pricing for a 9-year-old dog seemed reasonable, and the claims process was seamless. After filing three claims within four months, I was impressed with Figo’s efficient service and prompt reimbursements.
Did I Renew With Figo?
Figo’s premium increased significantly upon renewal from $59.68 to $97.18 per month, a nearly 63% hike. I decided not to renew due to the higher cost. However, I still wanted coverage, especially for costly conditions like cancer, so I researched comparable plans from Pets Best, Fetch, and Spot, all known for competitive pricing and reliable coverage.
| Company | Deductible | Reimbursement | Payout Limit | Monthly Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1,000 | 90% | Unlimited | $54.11* |
| $500 | 80% | $5,000 | $76.06** |
| $500 | 80% | $5,000 | $102.73 |
| $500 | 80% | $5,000 | $97.18 |
| $500 | 80% | $5,000 | $94.41 |
Ultimately, I chose Pets Best’s Elite plan for $54.11 per month, which offers unlimited payouts. While I haven’t filed any claims yet, my colleagues who have their dogs insured with Pets Best have had positive experiences with coverage and reimbursements, though processing times took up to a month a couple of times.
Would I Recommend Figo And Pets Best?
Based on my experience, both Figo and Pets Best offer solid pet insurance options. Figo provided affordable premiums and an easy claims process, ensuring smooth management of Sally’s health with efficient customer service and prompt reimbursements. While my renewal premium saw a significant increase, this can vary based on factors like your pet’s breed, age, and location, as well as underwriter requirements. Pets Best also offers competitive pricing and reliable coverage, making it another strong option.
Both companies prioritize their customers and provide flexible plans to accommodate various needs and budgets. Depending on your priorities, either Figo or Pets Best can be a great fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions we get asked about Pets Best and Figo. If you don’t see your question, reach out in the comments.
How does Pets Best process reimbursements?
If you’ve added your bank account information to your policy, Pets Best will deposit your reimbursement directly into your account. If no banking details are provided, they will send a check to the address on file with your account.
Does Pets Best require a veterinary exam for enrollment?
No, Pets Best does not require a veterinary exam to enroll your pet in a policy.
What is the average monthly cost of Figo pet insurance?
Figo’s monthly premiums vary based on factors such as the coverage options you select and your pet’s species, breed, age, gender, and location. Over the years, Figo’s prices have often ranked as some of the most budget-friendly in the numerous quotes I’ve reviewed.
Which Is Better For Your Pet?
Both Pets Best and Figo offer robust pet insurance options, each with distinct advantages. Pets Best stands out for its customizable coverage, including three accident and illness plans and an affordable accident-only policy. Additionally, Pets Best provides comprehensive dental coverage. This flexibility makes it a great choice for pet parents who want tailored coverage to meet their specific needs and budgets.
Figo, on the other hand, is known for its modern approach to pet insurance. It includes many features in its base plan that other providers may only offer as add-ons or plan upgrades. With deductibles ranging from $100 to $750, annual payout options up to unlimited, and reimbursement rates as high as 100%, Figo gives policyholders the ability to design coverage that fits their preferences.
When it comes to claims and customer support, both providers offer efficient reimbursement systems, though Figo averages a quicker turnaround time of about three days. Pets Best offers Vet Direct Pay, which allows for direct payments to veterinary offices, adding an extra layer of convenience.
Ultimately, the better option depends on your priorities. If you value comprehensive dental care or affordable accident-only policies, Pets Best might be the right choice. However, if you’re looking for faster claims processing or flexible reimbursement rates, Figo could be the better fit.
I’ve gone even more in-depth with individual reviews of Pets Best and Figo so you can expand your comparison. You can also read my pet insurance reviews, including my top picks, along with details on each of the most popular pet insurance companies. So, if you want to know how other providers compare against one another, you may find this review helpful in your pet health insurance search. Lastly, my pet insurance comparison tables can help you see how companies differ at a quick glance.
Methodology
My team and I conduct extensive research on the most reputable pet insurance companies, analyzing customer feedback, policy changes, and industry trends. Our licensed insurance agent fact-checks everything, and we update our reviews year-round as insurers adjust premiums, coverage, exclusions, and customer service.
We rank each U.S. pet insurance provider using a 100-point scale, ensuring an unbiased breakdown of how companies perform in real-world claims.
Our Ranking Criteria
- Coverage & Exclusions (30%) – We analyze policies, exclusions, and age restrictions, rewarding companies with fewer coverage limitations.
- Pricing (15%) – We run thousands of sample quotes and factor in extra fees, discounts, and add-ons.
- Customer Service & Reputation (12%) – We review hundreds of customer experiences, assess the sign-up process, and evaluate claim support.
- Financial Strength (10%) – We examine A.M. Best & Demotech ratings to ensure companies can pay claims reliably.
- Customization Options (10%) – Providers with more deductible, reimbursement, and payout flexibility rank higher.
- Waiting Periods (5%) – Shorter illness & accident waiting periods result in a better score.
- Claim Processing (5%) – Companies offering fast reimbursements and direct vet pay score higher.
- Innovation (3%) – We recognize unique offerings and advanced technology in the industry.
Unbiased Pet Insurance Rankings: Putting Pets First
Unlike many review sites, we don’t sell rankings—every provider earns its spot based on real performance. Our in-depth comparisons help pet parents make informed decisions, while insurers use our reviews to improve their policies. We only recommend the best because that’s what our readers deserve.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Canine Journal has been covering the topic of pet insurance since 2012, well before other conglomerates discovered the rising popularity of health care for our pets. Many of our authors have personal experience with pet insurance, including Kimberly Alt, who has been Canine Journal’s go-to writer for pet insurance for over a decade, having written about nearly every possible facet related to pet insurance. Kimberly knows the subject so well that she can answer a breadth and depth of pet insurance questions immediately. And on the rare occasion she doesn’t know the answer off the top of her head, she can find it within minutes due to her extensive list of resources. Kimberly also consulted with Michelle Schenker, Canine Journal’s in-house licensed insurance agent, for additional expertise, to ensure accuracy, and give Canine Journal the authority to write about and assist readers in purchasing insurance policies legally. Kimberly has spent over 100 hours researching Pets Best and Figo, reading every line in their policies, speaking with their operation teams, and gathering quotes to bring you the most accurate information.
