That’s a pretty accurate way to put it.
I’ve actually seen both sides of this. That line about “digging up baby photos and dental records” made me laugh—USAA does seem to want a small novel’s worth of info up front. In theory, yeah, it should mean fewer back-and-forth emails later on, but in practice it really depends on the adjuster you get and how complicated your claim is.
One time, a client of mine went through USAA after a hailstorm totaled their car. The paperwork was a pain, but once everything was submitted, the payout came pretty quick—like, within a week. But I’ve also had folks get stuck in limbo because they missed some tiny detail on page three of the forms.
With State Farm, it’s more like “slow and steady.” Less initial hassle, but sometimes you’re left waiting for updates or extra requests as things drag on. Personally, I’d rather do more work up front if it means less waiting later, but I get why people find it frustrating. It’s not always a clear win either way.
Yeah, the paperwork with USAA can feel like you’re prepping for a background check, but I’ve seen those claims get paid out fast once you jump through all the hoops. State Farm’s more chill at first, but I’ve had clients get antsy waiting for updates. Personally, I’d rather get the headache over with up front and (hopefully) get my money quicker. Not everyone’s got the patience for that, though. Guess it comes down to whether you’d rather deal with paperwork or waiting... neither’s exactly fun.
I get what you mean about USAA’s paperwork mountain—it’s like they want your life story before they’ll cut a check. But honestly, I’ve had State Farm drag their feet so much that I started wondering if my claim got lost in the Bermuda Triangle. I’d rather fill out a few extra forms if it means not having to chase updates for weeks. Still, I know some folks just can’t stand all the initial hassle... guess it’s a pick-your-poison situation.
I’d rather fill out a few extra forms if it means not having to chase updates for weeks.
Totally get where you’re coming from. I’ve dealt with both, and honestly, neither one is perfect. USAA’s paperwork can feel endless, but at least you know where things stand most of the time. State Farm, on the other hand, left me hanging for almost a month once—kept calling and getting the same “we’re reviewing your claim” line. That was way more stressful than just sitting down and knocking out some forms.
It really does come down to what bugs you more: paperwork up front or waiting in the dark. I’d rather have a little hassle early on if it means less uncertainty later. But yeah, it’s definitely a “pick-your-poison” deal. You’re not alone in feeling frustrated—insurance claims are rarely smooth sailing.
Yeah, I hear you. I’ve been through both too, and honestly, the waiting game with State Farm drove me nuts. At least with USAA, you know what’s going on, even if it means a stack of forms. It’s annoying either way, but I’d rather deal with paperwork than sit around wondering if anyone’s even looked at my claim. Hang in there—it’s a pain, but you’re not the only one dealing with this mess.
