the idea of an app crashing mid-claim stresses me out way more than just talking to a real person
I get that—tech issues always seem to happen at the worst possible time. But on the flip side, sometimes phone reps put you on hold forever or transfer you three times. Has anyone actually had a claim with USAA over the phone? Curious if their process is smoother or if it’s just as clunky.
Had to file a claim with USAA over the phone last year after a hail storm did a number on my ‘68 Mustang. Honestly, it was pretty painless compared to what I’ve dealt with at other companies. Got a real person quickly, and they seemed to actually know classic cars, which was a surprise. Still had to repeat some info, but nothing like the endless transfers I’ve had with State Farm in the past. Both have their quirks, but USAA’s phone process felt less frustrating overall. Tech glitches make me nervous too—especially when you’re already stressed about your car.
USAA’s phone folks actually knowing something about classic cars is wild—I’ve had the opposite luck with State Farm. Last time I called them about a fender bender, I felt like I was teaching a crash course in “what is a car.” Got bounced around so much I started memorizing hold music.
I get what you mean about tech glitches, too. I tried filing a claim online once and the site crashed halfway through. Ended up calling anyway, so what’s the point? At least with USAA, it sounds like you get a human who doesn’t just read off a script. That’s rare these days.
Still, every company has its off days. My neighbor swears by State Farm, but I think he just likes their commercials. For me, less time on hold = less stress, especially when my car’s already in rough shape.
USAA Vs State Farm: Which Claims Process Is Less Of A Headache?
I’ve bounced between both over the years, and honestly, I think it depends on what you’re driving and how much patience you have. I had State Farm for a while because their rates were lower for my old Honda, but every time I needed to actually talk to someone, it felt like I was stuck in a never-ending loop of “press 1 for this, press 2 for that.” The last claim I filed (hail damage—gotta love Midwest weather), I spent more time explaining what comprehensive coverage actually meant than getting help. Maybe it’s just the reps I got, but it didn’t inspire much confidence.
On the flip side, my brother-in-law swears by USAA. He’s got a ‘68 Mustang he babies, and when he called about some minor bodywork after a parking lot incident, he said the rep actually asked about the trim package and original paint codes. That kind of detail is rare. But then again, USAA isn’t an option for everyone—military connection and all that.
I do wonder if part of the problem is just how big these companies have gotten. When you’re trying to keep costs down (which is always top of mind for me), sometimes you end up sacrificing service. Is it worth paying extra just to avoid hold music? Or is it better to roll the dice with a cheaper plan and hope you never need to call? I’m not sure there’s a perfect answer.
One thing’s for sure: online claims portals are hit or miss everywhere. I tried using State Farm’s app once and ended up having to call anyway because it glitched out halfway through uploading photos. At that point, why even bother with the tech?
Curious if anyone’s actually had a smooth online claim experience with either company... or is that just wishful thinking?
- Had clients with both, and honestly, neither is perfect.
- State Farm’s phone tree is a patience test—totally agree there.
- USAA’s attention to detail is impressive, but only if you’re eligible.
- Online portals? I’ve seen State Farm’s glitch out mid-claim, just like you mentioned.
- One guy I worked with got his USAA claim approved in under 24 hours, but another waited a week for a callback.
- Paying extra for service sometimes feels worth it, but only if you actually need to use it... tough call.
- Tech is great when it works, but I wouldn’t trust it 100% yet.
