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Our Rating Methodology

Every provider on MoneySaverCodes receives a rating from 1.0 to 5.0 stars. This page explains exactly how we calculate those scores — no black boxes, no hidden criteria.

Key Principles

  • Ratings are editorially independent — providers cannot pay to improve their score.
  • We use publicly available data: regulator filings, published rates, and third-party satisfaction surveys.
  • Scores are reviewed quarterly alongside our rate data updates.
  • The same methodology applies consistently across all eight verticals and both US and UK markets.

Rating Scale

Our ratings use a 1.0–5.0 scale with half-star precision. Here is what each tier means:

5Exceptional — best-in-class across all criteria
4.5Excellent — top performer with minor gaps
4Very good — strong option for most consumers
3.5Good — solid coverage, some trade-offs
3Average — meets basic needs, room for improvement
2.5Below average — notable weaknesses
2Poor — significant issues in multiple areas

How We Score: Five Criteria

Each provider is evaluated across five weighted criteria. The final star rating is a weighted average of these scores, rounded to the nearest 0.1.

Cost & Value

30%

We compare monthly and annual premiums (or APRs/fees for lending products) against the market average for the same coverage level, state/region, and customer profile. Providers offering below-average rates with comparable coverage score highest.

  • Premium/rate vs. market average for equivalent coverage
  • Available discounts (bundling, loyalty, good driver, no-claims)
  • Hidden fees, admin charges, or rate increases after year one
  • Value relative to coverage limits and deductibles

Coverage & Benefits

25%

We assess the breadth and quality of standard coverage, optional add-ons, and policy limits. Higher ratings go to providers that include features competitors charge extra for.

  • Standard coverage inclusions vs. competitors
  • Optional add-ons and their pricing
  • Policy limits, caps, and exclusions
  • Flexibility to customise coverage

Customer Service

20%

We review publicly available customer satisfaction data from J.D. Power (US), Defaqto (UK), and complaint ratios from state regulators and the FCA. We also consider claims handling reputation and contact channel availability.

  • J.D. Power / Defaqto customer satisfaction scores
  • Complaint ratios from NAIC (US) or FCA (UK)
  • Claims handling speed and approval rates
  • Contact channels: phone, chat, app, 24/7 availability

Digital Experience

15%

We evaluate the quality of the online quote process, mobile app, and self-service account management. Providers with fast, transparent quoting and well-rated apps score higher.

  • Online quote speed and transparency
  • Mobile app rating (App Store / Google Play)
  • Self-service policy management features
  • Digital claims filing capability

Financial Strength & Reputation

10%

We check insurer financial strength ratings from AM Best, S&P, or Moody's (US) and Defaqto/FCA authorisation status (UK). This ensures recommended providers can reliably pay claims.

  • AM Best / S&P / Moody's financial strength rating
  • Years in operation and market presence
  • FCA authorisation status (UK providers)
  • Industry awards and recognitions

Vertical-Specific Adjustments

While the five core criteria remain the same, we adjust what we evaluate within each criterion depending on the product type:

VerticalKey Cost MetricKey Coverage Factor
Car InsuranceMonthly premium (same profile)Liability limits, uninsured motorist
Home InsuranceAnnual premium (same dwelling)Dwelling coverage, flood/earthquake add-ons
Life InsuranceTerm premium ($500k/30yr)Convertibility, riders, guaranteed renewability
Health InsuranceSilver plan premium (ACA/PMI)Network size, prescription coverage, out-of-pocket max
Pet InsuranceMonthly premium (dog, age 3)Reimbursement rate, annual limit, waiting periods
Mortgages30yr fixed APRClosing costs, rate lock options, first-time buyer programmes
Credit CardsAnnual fee vs. rewards valueSign-up bonus, earning rate, redemption flexibility
Personal LoansAPR (same credit tier)Loan amount range, funding speed, prepayment penalties

Our Data Sources

US Sources

  • State insurance regulator filings
  • NAIC complaint index data
  • J.D. Power satisfaction studies
  • AM Best financial strength ratings
  • Published insurer/lender rate sheets

UK Sources

  • FCA register and authorisation data
  • Defaqto product ratings
  • ABI (Association of British Insurers) data
  • Published insurer rate tables
  • Trustpilot and app store reviews

Limitations & Updates

Our ratings reflect publicly available information as of the last review date. They do not account for individual circumstances — your experience may differ based on your location, credit profile, claims history, or specific coverage needs. Ratings are reviewed and updated quarterly alongside our rate data. If you believe a rating is inaccurate, please contact us with details.