About The General® Company History
The General Automobile Insurance Services, Inc. (The General) is a licensed insurance agency that is a subsidiary of PGC Holdings Corp. (PGC) which is an affiliate of Sentry Insurance. Through its insurance company subsidiaries affiliates and their predecessors, PGC GAIS has been writing automobile insurance in many states throughout the country for nearly more than 60 years, and is a leader in the low-cost auto insurance field.
GAIS offers auto insurance primarily through members and affiliates of Sentry Insurance Group. Sentry Insurance Group has been recognized by AM Best for its financial stability with ratings of A+ (“Superior”), which is the 2nd highest out of 13 ratings. We have physical offices throughout the country, and we offer coverage across 47 different states. Do not confuse cheap car insurance with insurance of lesser quality. The General car insurance is both affordable and reliable.
Why Choose The General?
Low Down Payments
The General offers auto insurance for drivers that have had a history of driving violations or accidents, have not kept their insurance in force, or have less-than-perfect credit. So, you can still find a good price for your auto insurance needs. We offer some of the best low-cost auto insurance options for drivers who might otherwise have difficulty finding insurance.
Convenient Monthly Payments
We combine our budget-sensitive payment plans with electronic verification of driver information and vehicle information when you are buying the policy so there are no surprises to you down the road. We know you work hard for your money. When you purchase The General car insurance, you will always know what kind of coverage you are receiving and just how much it will cost, so you can budget accordingly.
Quality Claims Handling
Both our policies and our customer service practices are focused on meeting our customers’ needs for a positive experience end to end. Experiencing a car accident or otherwise damaging your vehicle is an unpleasant experience at best, but hassle-free claims service makes a difficult situation somewhat easier.
The History of The General
In 1963, we began selling insurance under the company name Permanent General Agency. Over the years, we’ve sold insurance through various companies including Permanent General Assurance Corporation (Permanent General or PGAC for short). Although our iconic mascot didn’t join the team until a few decades later, we have nearly 60 years of experience in providing quality coverage. We’re proud of our long history of serving our customers when they need us.
See how The General has evolved over the years with this timeline:
Permanent General Agency founded.
Began selling insurance online.
The General is acquired by American Family Insurance® and our character gets an update.
Launched our new mobile app.
Updated our slogan to, “For a great low rate, go with The General.”
Our logo and character evolve with a fresh and modern look!
Sentry Insurance acquires The General® December 31, 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is The General?
The General Automobile Insurance Services, Inc. (GAIS) is a licensed insurance agency that is a subsidiary of Sentry Insurance Company. GAIS offers auto insurance primarily through members and affiliates of Sentry Insurance Group. Sentry Insurance Group has been recognized by AM Best for its financial stability with a rating of A+ (“Superior”), the 2nd highest out of 13 ratings.
Where Are The General's Offices Located?
The General headquarters is located in Nashville, TN.
How Long Has The General Been in Business?
The General has been in business since 1963. That means that we’ve been providing high-quality insurance to everyday Americans for 60 years.
More From The General
The General Insurance Headquarters
26 Century Blvd, South Tower 100
Nashville, Tennessee 37214