Amica vs. USAA: Side-by-Side Comparison
Amica Mutual and USAA are two of the most highly-rated insurance companies in the United States, both consistently earning top customer satisfaction rankings and serving distinct customer bases. Amica is open to all consumers and serves customers nationwide with the unique dividend policy program and top-ranked customer satisfaction. USAA serves military families exclusively (active duty, veterans, and their families) and consistently ranks at the top of customer satisfaction studies with some of the lowest pricing in the industry. For customers eligible for both insurers, the comparison comes down to specific pricing for your profile, the unique value of Amica’s dividend policy, and which company’s structure best fits your situation.
This guide compares Amica and USAA across pricing, coverage, customer service, claims handling, and unique features.
The Core Differences
Amica is open to all consumers and operates as a mutual insurance company owned by policyholders. The company is known for top customer satisfaction rankings and the unique dividend policy that returns a portion of premiums to qualifying customers.
USAA is a member-owned insurance and financial services company serving exclusively military members (active duty, veterans, National Guard/Reserve, retired military) and their families. USAA consistently ranks at the very top of customer satisfaction studies and offers some of the lowest auto insurance pricing in the industry.
Eligibility Comparison
| Eligibility | Amica | USAA |
|---|---|---|
| General public | Yes | No |
| Active military | Yes | Yes |
| Veterans | Yes | Yes |
| Military spouses | Yes | Yes |
| Military children | Yes | Yes |
| National Guard/Reserve | Yes | Yes |
This comparison is most relevant for military families who qualify for both. For non-military customers, USAA is not available.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Amica Mutual | USAA |
|---|---|---|
| Customer eligibility | Open to public | Military families only |
| Availability | All 50 states + DC | All 50 states |
| Distribution model | Direct (no agents) | Direct (no agents) |
| Average annual premium | $1,550 to $1,950 | $1,200 to $1,500 |
| Company structure | Mutual | Member-owned |
| Founded | 1907 | 1922 |
| Dividend policy | Yes (5-20%) | Subscriber savings account (annual) |
| Telematics program | Limited | SafePilot (up to 30%) |
| Banking services | Not offered | Yes (USAA Bank) |
| Investment services | Annuity products | USAA Investment Services |
| Customer satisfaction | Top tier | Top tier (often #1) |
| Financial strength rating | A+ (Superior) | A++ (Superior, highest) |
Pricing Comparison
USAA consistently offers some of the lowest auto insurance pricing in the industry, typically beating Amica by significant margins for military families.
| Driver Profile | Amica | USAA |
|---|---|---|
| 30-year-old, clean record | $1,500 | $1,200 |
| 45-year-old, clean record | $1,650 | $1,300 |
| 20-year-old single driver | $3,900 | $3,100 |
| Driver with one accident | $2,300 | $1,950 |
| Driver with poor credit | $2,500 | $1,950 |
| Senior driver, age 65 | $1,500 | $1,300 |
Profit-Sharing Programs Compared
Amica Dividend Policy
Amica’s dividend policy returns 5% to 20% of premiums to qualifying customers annually based on company performance.
USAA Subscriber Savings Account
USAA’s Subscriber Savings Account returns a portion of profits to members annually. Members accumulate savings over time that can be paid out under specific circumstances.
Both companies share profits with customers/members, but the mechanisms differ. Amica’s dividend is typically paid annually as a premium credit or check. USAA’s Subscriber Savings Account accumulates over time.
Coverage Options Comparison
Amica Unique Features
- Available to all consumers
- Dividend policy returns premium
- Glass coverage included on auto
- Identity fraud expense coverage on home
- Marine and boat insurance
- Classic car insurance
- Direct customer service model
USAA Unique Features
- Military-specific features (deployment discounts, stored vehicle coverage)
- Subscriber Savings Account returns profits
- SafePilot telematics (up to 30%)
- USAA Bank (deposit accounts, loans, credit cards)
- USAA Investment Services
- USAA Life Insurance
- Lower base pricing
- A++ Superior financial strength (highest)
- Military member benefits and discounts
- Strong VA loan and military mortgage products
Customer Service Comparison
Amica Customer Service
Amica provides direct customer service through trained representatives. The direct model eliminates commission incentives.
USAA Customer Service
USAA provides direct service through phone, mobile app, and online channels. The exclusively military member base creates customer service teams understanding military life specifically.
Customer Satisfaction Rankings
Both companies consistently rank in the top tier. USAA frequently ranks #1 overall when included in J.D. Power studies (USAA is sometimes excluded due to limited eligibility). Amica frequently ranks #1 among insurers open to the general public.
Claims Experience Comparison
Amica Claims
- 24/7 claims filing through phone, app, or website
- Direct claims service through company adjusters
- Highly-rated claims satisfaction
- Mobile app for claim filing and tracking
USAA Claims
- 24/7 claims filing through phone, app, or website
- Direct claims service
- Industry-leading claims satisfaction
- Excellent mobile app
- Specific provisions for military deployment situations
Bundling and Financial Services Comparison
Amica Bundling
Auto, home, condo, renters, umbrella, and life insurance available for bundling. Dividend policy applies across multiple lines.
USAA Bundling
USAA offers integrated insurance, banking, investment, and lending services. Members can manage all their financial relationships through USAA, including auto loans, home mortgages, credit cards, savings, and investments alongside insurance.
USAA significantly wins on financial services breadth and integration.
Who Should Choose Amica?
- Non-military customers (USAA not available)
- Customers wanting dividend policy returns
- Households appreciating mutual ownership philosophy
- Customers wanting top-ranked service open to all
- Those wanting consistent J.D. Power top rankings
- Customers preferring direct service without commissions
Who Should Choose USAA?
- Military members and their families (USAA’s exclusive market)
- Customers wanting absolute lowest pricing
- Military families wanting integrated banking and insurance
- Customers wanting A++ Superior financial strength (highest)
- Drivers wanting SafePilot telematics with no rate increase risk
- Military members appreciating military-specific service understanding
- Those wanting Subscriber Savings Account profit sharing
The Verdict: Which Is Better?
For military families eligible for both, USAA is typically the better choice. The combination of significantly lower base pricing, A++ Superior financial strength, integrated financial services, and military-specific understanding makes USAA difficult to beat for those who qualify.
For non-military customers, Amica is the obvious choice since USAA is not available. Amica offers excellent service, dividend policy benefits, and top customer satisfaction rankings.
The choice essentially comes down to USAA eligibility. If you qualify, USAA generally wins. If you don’t, Amica is among the best alternatives available to the general public.
For broader perspective on insurance pricing decisions, our guide on how car insurance premiums are calculated walks through rating factors used across the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone get USAA insurance?
No. USAA exclusively serves military members (active duty, veterans, National Guard/Reserve, retired military) and their families. Non-military customers cannot get USAA.
Is USAA cheaper than Amica?
Yes. USAA typically offers significantly lower auto insurance pricing than Amica.
Which has better claims service?
Both rank in the top tier. USAA frequently ranks #1 overall in claims satisfaction studies.
Do both companies share profits with customers?
Yes. Amica through the dividend policy, USAA through the Subscriber Savings Account. The mechanisms differ but both return a portion of profits to customers/members.
Which has better customer service?
Both rank in the top tier. USAA frequently ranks #1 overall when included in studies. Amica frequently ranks #1 among insurers open to all consumers.
Can I switch from Amica to USAA if I become eligible?
Yes. If you become USAA-eligible (e.g., joining the military or getting married to a military member), you can switch to USAA. Most eligible customers find USAA’s pricing and benefits compelling.
Should non-military customers consider USAA?
USAA is not available to non-military customers. Non-military customers should consider other top insurers like Amica.
The Bottom Line
USAA and Amica are both at the very top of the U.S. insurance industry for customer satisfaction. For military families who qualify for USAA, the company offers significantly lower pricing, A++ Superior financial strength, integrated financial services, and military-specific understanding. For non-military customers, Amica offers excellent service, the unique dividend policy, and top customer satisfaction rankings among insurers open to the general public.
The choice essentially depends on USAA eligibility. Military families should typically choose USAA. Non-military customers seeking top-quality insurance should strongly consider Amica.
The team at Matrix Insurance can help you compare Amica and USAA (if eligible) along with other top carriers. Use our Car Insurance Calculator for a starting estimate, or reach out to our team directly for a personalized comparison.
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