Nationwide is on whose side?

After reading my sister Carol's Nationwide Insurance rant on her blog I was surprised since I'd had my own difficulties with them this week.
I've insured my cars with them for 31 years, following my parents who have been with them for several years before that. Tony and I also have had our homeowners insurance with them for the last 22 years as well. We haven't had any accident claims and only 1 windshield replaced and never, ever, ever claimed anything on our homeowner's. (Which believe me I am very thankful) In total, we've paid Nationwide approximately $30,000 over the last 10 years in premiums. Possibly more.










Just typing that makes my head nearly explode.

 





What happened this week?  Our premium bill went from $336/month (4 cars & 3 drivers) to $507/month for 4 cars & 4 drivers.  I was quoted $443.00.  I called to ask for an explanation.  First the local office.  They fudged around an answer, but still, couldn't answer my question, and the woman seemed to have a few questions of her own.  She said she would need to call the national office.  Yadda, yadda, yadda and two hours later she called me back, gave me an explanation which didn't make sense to me and still didn't make sense to her. 

Finally, at my request, a Nationwide customer rep from the main office called me.  My hopes were raised!  I got the Grand Poobah of the company.  Surely they could clear up this misunderstanding...

After being put on hold so they could run my questions by a Resolution Specialist....blah, blah, blah,

Nationwide Rep:  "You'll have to pay the $507/month premium until your renewal date in December, when you will then pay the $443."

What the french toast is going on?!!!  If I was quoted $443, I should be paying $443 now, not in December, right?  Wrong.  He gave his explanation again.  What I heard was the same thing Charlie Brown hears when the teacher is speaking.

I asked about any other possible discounts for a loyal customer of 31 years that has a safe driving record. 

Nationwide Rep: "Um...actually, we've just opened up a Farm Bureau discount to everyone, not just farmers.  You can save $475/year!"

Me:  "Really?!  That's fantastic!"

Nationwide Rep:  "Yep, I can add it on today and it will credit on your next statement.   I will send you an application to fill out and send to the Farm Bureau along with a check to the Farm Bureau for $75."

Me:  "Whut?  So I have to send the Farm Bureau $75?"

Nationwide Rep:  "Yes"

Me:  "Isn't that called a kickback?"

Nationwide Rep:  "Um...is there anything else I can help you out with today, ma'am?"

Me:  BLINK, BLINK

As the Brady Bunch sang, It's time to change, yes, it's time to change....

Am I naive enough to believe that Nationwide is any different than any other insurance company?  They are a business after all.   I think it's time for a change for them, too. 

How about changing the slogan?  Just be honest and I'd respect you more. 

It wouldn't take very much, just remove the "Y" in Your.