Financial Strength & Ratings

Auto-Owners holds a stronger financial rating and more stable outlook, which may be reassuring for long-term policyholders.

Policy Types Offered

Coverage Options & Flexibility

Pekin offers flexible premium structures, conversion options, and the unique Transitional Life product, which blends term and whole life features for affordability and lifetime coverage.

Auto-Owners provides flexible payment schedules, adjustable coverage amounts (especially with universal life), and term policies renewable up to age 95.

Both companies allow policyholders to tailor their coverage, but Pekin’s Transitional Life adds a distinctive, affordable hybrid for those wanting both term and permanent benefits.

Underwriting & Application Process

Pekin uses advanced automated underwriting, offering instant decisions for many applicants through digital applications, which can speed up and simplify the process.

Auto-Owners relies on local independent agents and has invested in data-driven underwriting enhancements, but generally requires agent involvement and may have a more traditional process.

If you prefer a streamlined, digital-first experience, Pekin may have the edge.

Pricing & Affordability

Pekin is recognized for affordable premiums, especially for term and Transitional Life policies, and offers premium guarantees and conversion options.

Auto-Owners is also competitive, with term and permanent policies priced to be affordable, especially when bundled with auto or home insurance for multi-policy discounts.

Both are considered affordable within their regions, but pricing varies by age, health, and coverage amount. Pekin’s Transitional Life and simplified issue options may offer lower entry points for those seeking budget-friendly coverage.

Alternatives to Consider

• Top National Alternatives: State Farm, New York Life, Northwestern Mutual, and MassMutual are highly rated for coverage, customer service, and financial strength.
• Other Affordable Options: Haven Life, Ladder, and Mutual of Omaha are known for competitive term life rates and digital convenience.

Alternatives may offer broader digital tools or nationwide coverage, but Pekin and Auto-Owners remain strong for those preferring local agent support and regional focus.

Riders & Customization

Best For…

Pekin Life Insurance:

• Those seeking unique, customizable, and affordable coverage (especially Transitional Life).
• Applicants wanting fast, digital underwriting.
• Policyholders in the Midwest and select states preferring local agents.

Auto-Owners Life Insurance:

• Clients valuing financial strength and stability.
• Those who prefer working with a local independent agent for personalized service.
• Families looking to bundle multiple insurance products for discounts.

Pros and Cons

Customer Experience & Support

Pekin:

Mixed customer reviews; some report slower claims processing and limited digital support, but strong agent relationships in covered regions.

No 24/7 claims reporting; service is agent-driven.

Auto-Owners:

Excellent reputation for customer service, low complaint ratios, and high agent satisfaction.

No online quoting, but policyholders benefit from local, personalized support.

Final Verdict

For clients seeking affordable life insurance, both Pekin and Auto-Owners offer strong value, but each excels in different areas:

• Choose Pekin Life Insurance if you want unique, flexible products like Transitional Life, a faster digital application process, and are located in their regional footprint.
• Choose Auto-Owners Life Insurance if you prioritize financial stability, value working with an independent agent, and want the option to bundle policies for additional savings.

Both companies are reputable and well-established, but your choice should reflect your preference for digital convenience versus agent-driven service, as well as your specific coverage needs and location.

For the best results, compare personalized quotes and policy details from both companies—and consider national alternatives if you need broader coverage or advanced digital tools.