SGI Car Insurance Review 2025: Is It Worth It?
Our expert's review on SGI
SGI car insurance offers a unique public insurance system in Saskatchewan, centered on its mandatory Basic Plate Insurance. I find it provides two clear personal injury formulas, No Fault and Tort, with robust reimbursement rates, such as up to $8.3 million for medical care, a standard $700 deductible for cars, and a Safe Driver Recognition program that rewards safe driving.
As a non-profit Crown corporation, SGI is positioned as a universally affordable alternative to private insurers in other provinces, its key strength being stable, break-even pricing. SGI insurance is particularly well-suited for young drivers, who are not penalized for age, as well as for drivers seeking excellent medical reimbursements or those on a small budget requiring essential, low-cost coverage.
As a government entity, SGI projects high reliability, although it does not publish specific figures for premium volumes, customer reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, or average reimbursement timelines.
- ✅Pricing independent of age or gender
- ✅Unique choice between No Fault and Tort plans
- ✅Excellent medical benefit limits under No Fault
- ✅Discounts via Safe Driver Recognition program
- ✅Lower base rates than private market alternatives
- ✅Injury protection throughout Canada and the US
- ✅Standard coverage for collision, theft, and hail
- ❌Low mandatory liability limit of $200,000
- ❌Standard $700 deductible for most vehicles
- ❌Extra coverage requires a separate Auto Pak policy
- ❌No public data on claims processing speed
- ❌Severe benefit denial for impaired driving
- ✅Pricing independent of age or gender
- ✅Unique choice between No Fault and Tort plans
- ✅Excellent medical benefit limits under No Fault
- ✅Discounts via Safe Driver Recognition program
- ✅Lower base rates than private market alternatives
- ✅Injury protection throughout Canada and the US
- ✅Standard coverage for collision, theft, and hail
Our expert's review on SGI
- ✅Pricing independent of age or gender
- ✅Unique choice between No Fault and Tort plans
- ✅Excellent medical benefit limits under No Fault
- ✅Discounts via Safe Driver Recognition program
- ✅Lower base rates than private market alternatives
- ✅Injury protection throughout Canada and the US
- ✅Standard coverage for collision, theft, and hail
- ❌Low mandatory liability limit of $200,000
- ❌Standard $700 deductible for most vehicles
- ❌Extra coverage requires a separate Auto Pak policy
- ❌No public data on claims processing speed
- ❌Severe benefit denial for impaired driving
- ✅Pricing independent of age or gender
- ✅Unique choice between No Fault and Tort plans
- ✅Excellent medical benefit limits under No Fault
- ✅Discounts via Safe Driver Recognition program
- ✅Lower base rates than private market alternatives
- ✅Injury protection throughout Canada and the US
- ✅Standard coverage for collision, theft, and hail
As a non-profit Crown corporation, SGI is positioned as a universally affordable alternative to private insurers in other provinces, its key strength being stable, break-even pricing. SGI insurance is particularly well-suited for young drivers, who are not penalized for age, as well as for drivers seeking excellent medical reimbursements or those on a small budget requiring essential, low-cost coverage.
As a government entity, SGI projects high reliability, although it does not publish specific figures for premium volumes, customer reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, or average reimbursement timelines.
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The SGI car insurance guarantees
SGI provides mandatory “plate insurance” for all registered vehicles in Saskatchewan, combining $200,000 third-party liability, physical damage (collision, theft, fire, vandalism, glass, natural events), and personal injury coverage—with a choice between No Fault (default, broader benefits) and Tort (lower benefits but expanded right to sue).
The default deductible for claims is $700 for passenger vehicles, and optional Auto Pak extensions let drivers increase liability limits, reduce deductibles, add rental vehicle and replacement cost coverage, or enhance legal and personal injury benefits.
Payment facilities include annual fees built into registration, and the physical damage payout is always based on actual cash value, not replacement cost unless added via extension. Key advantages include province-wide standardization, the unique choice of injury benefit model, and inclusion of many risk events by default, though the low liability limit and high deductible compared to other provinces are potential limitations.
Many personal effects, accessories, and some legal protections require extensions, and additional roadside or towing coverage is only included if specifically purchased.
Warranty name | Basic Plate Insurance (SGI) |
---|---|
Formula positioning | Compulsory base plan; add-ons via Auto Pak extensions available |
Type of cover | Third-party liability, physical damage, personal injury (No Fault or Tort) |
Reimbursement rate (% of damages covered) | 100% of actual cash value less deductible; up to coverage limits |
Annual reimbursement ceiling | $200,000 for liability; ACV for vehicle; injury/site-specific caps |
Policy excess (per claim and/or annually) | $700 deductible typical for passenger vehicles; varies by class |
Waiting period (before certain guarantees take effect) | Immediate on registration |
Minimum/maximum age for subscription | NC |
Prior risk assessment | Based on driving record; no medical questionnaire or telematics |
Payment facilities | Annual registration fee (renewable); monthly payment option may be available |
Advance payment of claim-related costs | Direct shop payment for repairs in most cases; deductible at repair |
Compensation at purchase/agreed/replacement value | ACV, replacement cost only with certain Auto Pak extensions |
Third-party liability (bodily/property) | ✅ $200,000 standard; higher available via extension |
Own vehicle damage (collision, regardless of fault) | ✅ Included, subject to deductible |
Theft of vehicle (partial/total) | ✅ Included, subject to deductible |
Fire (accidental or criminal) | ✅ Included, subject to deductible |
Broken glass (windscreen, windows, sunroof) | ✅ Included; aftermarket equipment limit $1,500 |
Natural disasters (hail, flood, storm, etc.) | ✅ Included, subject to deductible |
Acts of vandalism | ✅ Included, subject to deductible |
All-risks damage (accidents of any cause, including at-fault) | ✅ Covered for insured perils; details in policy |
Driver personal injury cover (death, disability, medical expenses) | ✅ Included under No Fault or Tort program |
Passenger injury cover | ✅ Same as driver; extensive under No Fault |
Criminal defence and recourse (basic legal aid after an accident) | Extension via Auto Pak required |
Extended legal protection | ❌ Not standard; may be available via Auto Pak extension |
Vehicle accessories and modifications | ❌ Aftermarket items covered up to $1,500 per claim |
Personal belongings inside the vehicle | ❌ Not insured; home policy may apply |
Child equipment (seats, pushchairs) | ❌ Not specified; NC |
Replacement vehicle (during repairs/after total loss) | ❌ Only with rental/extension; not included as standard |
Towing and roadside assistance | ❌ Only included if extension purchased |
Use abroad (compliance with minimum local cover; optional full cover abroad) | ✅ Canada/US |
Vehicle use for professional/business purposes | ❌ Not standard; commercial policy required |
Driving other vehicles | ❌ Not covered; check extension options |
Trailer or caravan towing cover | ❌ Only liability for some trailers; see policy for details |
*ACV = Actual Cash Value. NC = Not communicated by the provider. Optional coverages available via Auto Pak.*
Good to know
SGI manages claims via an online portal, by phone, or in-person at claims centres, supporting digital, paperless processes. Your injury coverage (No Fault or Tort) applies across Canada and the US, and you can switch between models yearly. Discounted premiums are available for good driving records via the Safe Driver Recognition program. For most additional benefits—like higher liability, lower deductibles, rental vehicles, or enhanced coverage—you must purchase extensions through Auto Pak.
SGI Car Insurance Exclusions
SGI excludes coverage for any loss or injury occurring when a driver is impaired by alcohol or drugs, which carries stricter consequences for repeat offenders, including denial of permanent impairment and income benefits. Deliberate actions such as using a vehicle to inflict harm, fleeing law enforcement, or participating in a race or speed test are always excluded.
Driving an unregistered vehicle or operating without an appropriate licence not only voids coverage but may result in the denial of virtually all benefits, a position that is standard but strictly enforced by SGI. Individuals entitled to Workers’ Compensation or involved in the theft or unlawful possession of a vehicle at the time of an accident are also excluded from coverage. Notably, SGI does not cover “soft tissue” injuries (such as whiplash) as permanent impairments, which distinguishes its policies from several competitors.
Exclusions | Details |
---|---|
Exclusions linked to the use of vehicle | Use for illegal acts or to deliberately harm othersParticipation in racing, speed tests, or fleeing law enforcement |
Exclusions linked to the driver | Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugsUnlicensed or improperly licensed driversIndividuals entitled to Workers’ Compensation |
Technical exclusions | No permanent impairment coverage for “soft tissue” injuries (e.g., whiplash) |
Contractual exclusions | Unregistered vehiclesStolen or unlawfully possessed vehiclesRepeat impaired/criminal negligence convictions impact benefit eligibility |
Geographical exclusions | NC |
The Cost of SGI Car Insurance
SGI occupies a unique and competitive position in the Canadian market by providing foundational auto insurance through its public, non-profit model, which leads to generally lower premiums than private insurers in other provinces.
Its basic plate insurance features standard deductibles that are higher than some competitors, but the inclusion of both physical damage and extensive personal injury protection at baseline is notable.
Optional “Auto Pak” extensions allow for customization such as lower deductibles and higher liability limits, helping bridge gaps for those seeking enhanced coverage. However, the default deductible structure and certain caps—such as on aftermarket equipment and basic liability limits—may leave some drivers underinsured without these add-ons.
The overall approach is well suited for value-driven consumers looking for affordable core protection with the flexibility to upgrade, but those wanting lower deductibles or higher standard liability may face higher total costs once extensions are included.
Basic plate insurance (No Fault) | Basic plate insurance (Tort) | Auto Pak – Extended (lower deductible/increased liability) | |
---|---|---|---|
Young driver (18-24 years old, compact vehicle) | $78/month | $78/month | $112/month |
Standard driver (35-45 years, intermediate vehicle) | $63/month | $63/month | $89/month |
Senior driver (60-70 years, city car) | $46/month | $46/month | $65/month |
Driver with an at-fault claim within 3 years | $135/month | $135/month | $174/month |
New SUV driver | $72/month | $72/month | $103/month |
Driver with more than 25,000km/year | $84/month | $84/month | $118/month |
Compare your options and adjust extensions like deductible and liability with SGI or other providers to secure the most tailored and cost-effective coverage for your needs.
Compare the best car insurance plans for free!Start comparingSGI Car Insurance Discount Codes
Promotional codes SGI | Details |
---|---|
HelloSafe | -5% on your quote |
Note: promotional codes are subject to change. For the latest promotional codes, go to our comparison of the best car insurance.
The SGI reimbursement
Claim or service | Average price (CA$) | SGI Basic Plate Insurance | SGI Basic + Auto Pak Extension |
---|---|---|---|
Windshield replacement | $400 | Up to actual cash value (excluding deductible) Out-of-pocket: $700 deductible | Up to actual cash value (excluding lower deductible) Out-of-pocket: e.g. $100 deductible if lower deductible selected |
Replacement after theft | $25,000 | Up to actual cash value (excluding deductible) Out-of-pocket: $700 deductible | Up to actual cash value (excluding lower deductible) Out-of-pocket: as low as $100 deductible, and possible replacement cost (new for old) coverage |
Repair after at-fault accident | $6,000 | Up to actual cash value (excluding deductible) Out-of-pocket: $700 deductible | Up to actual cash value (excluding lower deductible) Out-of-pocket: e.g. $100 deductible if lower deductible selected |
Rental vehicle during repairs | $900 (2 weeks) | ❌ Out-of-pocket: $900 | Up to $900 (excluding any applicable excess) Out-of-pocket: typically $0 if included in extension |
Hail damage repair | $2,500 | Up to actual cash value (excluding deductible) Out-of-pocket: $700 deductible | Up to actual cash value (excluding lower deductible) Out-of-pocket: e.g. $100 deductible if lower deductible selected |
Out-of-pocket: $700 deductible
Out-of-pocket: e.g. $100 deductible if lower deductible selected
Out-of-pocket: $700 deductible
Out-of-pocket: as low as $100 deductible, and possible replacement cost (new for old) coverage
Out-of-pocket: $700 deductible
Out-of-pocket: e.g. $100 deductible if lower deductible selected
Out-of-pocket: $900
Out-of-pocket: typically $0 if included in extension
Out-of-pocket: $700 deductible
Out-of-pocket: e.g. $100 deductible if lower deductible selected
SGI car insurance assistance
Assistance services included in SGI’s standard policy are limited and mainly activated in the event of a covered loss where the vehicle is not driveable; towing is provided but only after such incidents and not for general roadside breakdowns.
There is no "0 km" assistance if your vehicle is immobilized at home, and breakdown support is only available after claimable damage, which greatly limits on-the-spot help.
A replacement vehicle is offered only if you are not at fault or if you purchase an optional Auto Pak extension, so this may not be available to all drivers.
Support for alternative transport or accommodation is strictly linked to medical travel under the No Fault plan, with very limited daily compensation and no automatic hotel coverage for non-injurious breakdowns.
Notably, SGI’s policy omits basic legal assistance, vehicle repatriation, and specific help for electric vehicles, which could leave some customers under-protected in key situations.
Support SGI | Availability | Details |
---|---|---|
24/7 roadside breakdown assistance | ❌ | Not included in basic policy. May be available as an optional extension only. |
Towing to repair facility / Extended towing | ✅ | Towing is provided after covered accidents if vehicle is not driveable. Not for regular breakdown. |
Assistance from home (0 km) | ❌ | Assistance is not provided when vehicle is immobilized at home. |
Replacement vehicle | ✅ | Provided if not at fault or with purchased extension. Not automatic for all claims. |
Alternative transport or accommodation | ✅ | Only for medically necessary travel after injury. Limited to daily stipend, not for hotel after standard breakdown. |
Vehicle repatriation | ❌ | Not communicated No known coverage for returning vehicle from out of province. |
Assistance abroad | ❌ | Not communicated No official coverage for breakdown/towing outside Canada/US. |
Assistance for electric vehicles | ❌ | Not communicated No details on out-of-charge or cable mishaps. |
Battery assistance & fuel misfuelling | ❌ | Not communicated No support mentioned for battery or fuel errors. |
Legal assistance after an accident | ❌ | Not included in basic policy or official add-ons. |
Assistance for animals on board | ❌ | Not communicated |
Key recovery & lock replacement | ❌ | Not communicated |
May be available as an optional extension only.
Not for regular breakdown.
Not automatic for all claims.
Limited to daily stipend, not for hotel after standard breakdown.
No known coverage for returning vehicle from out of province.
No official coverage for breakdown/towing outside Canada/US.
No details on out-of-charge or cable mishaps.
No support mentioned for battery or fuel errors.
Customer Feedback on SGI Car Insurance
Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
---|---|
Trustpilot | 2.6/5 – 12 reviews |
We have analyzed the reviews on the above-mentioned site.
- ✅ The inclusion of basic plate insurance for all Saskatchewan vehicles is appreciated as convenient and affordable.
- ✅ Many customers praise the comprehensive No Fault personal injury coverage and the flexibility to choose Tort or No Fault.
- ✅ Some clients note that access to in-person service centres across the province is a real advantage for resolving issues.
- ✅ Several drivers mention clear guidance on claims steps and available resources.
- ❌ A notable number of reviews highlight slow claims processing and delayed settlements as a major frustration.
- ❌ There are recurring complaints about customer service being difficult to reach or not returning calls promptly.
- ❌ Some customers report confusion around deductible levels and extension policy options.
- ❌ A few negative comments note dissatisfaction with the resolution of disputed liability or limits on rental car coverage.
How to Contact SGI
Customer service SGI | Contact information |
---|---|
To obtain a quote or take out a policy online | You can use the HelloSafe car insurance comparison tool, choose the option that suits you best and click to obtain a quote. You can also use the MySGI online portal (https://sgi.sk.ca/mysgi) or contact your local SGI broker. Phone: 1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744). Address: 2260 - 11th Avenue, Regina, SK, S4P 0J9. |
To report a claim | Submit a claim online at https://sgi.sk.ca/auto-claims, call 1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744), or visit a claims centre in person. |
To request and track a refund | Submit your request via phone at 1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744), at a motor licence issuer, or by visiting SGI in person at 2260 - 11th Avenue, Regina, SK, S4P 0J9. Refunds are typically processed by cheque or direct deposit after form submission; processing times are not specified. |
To obtain an insurance certificate | Insurance certificates can be obtained via the MySGI online portal (https://sgi.sk.ca/mysgi), at any motor licence issuer, or by calling 1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744). |
To contact assistance | For general inquiries and assistance, call 1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744) or visit a local motor licence issuer. Postal address: 2260 - 11th Avenue, Regina, SK, S4P 0J9. |
To cancel my contract | Cancel your registration or insurance in person at any motor licence issuer, through the MySGI portal (https://sgi.sk.ca/changes-to-registration), or by calling 1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744). Documentation may include your licence plate and registration papers; no specific notice period is stated. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with SGI?
SGI works directly with approved repair shops, so in many cases, payment for eligible repairs is made directly to the shop after your claim is approved. If you choose a non-partner shop or the claim does not meet SGI requirements, you may need to pay up front and seek reimbursement. For towing after an accident, payment may be direct if services are covered; otherwise, keep your receipts for reimbursement through your adjuster.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with SGI?
You can cancel your SGI car insurance at any time by visiting a motor licence issuer, using the online service, or calling SGI; generally, no formal notice period is required, but bring your registration and provide personal and vehicle details to process the cancellation.
What is included in SGI’s basic plate insurance?
SGI’s basic plate insurance covers collision, fire, theft, vandalism, and certain weather events for your vehicle, subject to a deductible, as well as third-party liability and personal injury protection. This package is included automatically with Saskatchewan vehicle registration. You can upgrade coverages or limits by purchasing extension policies, called Auto Pak, from brokers.
How do I file a claim with SGI?
You can report a claim with SGI online, by phone (1-844-855-2744), or at a claims centre. Gather as much information about the incident as possible, including photos and details about the people involved. An SGI adjuster will review your claim, and you’ll follow the steps for getting a repair estimate and arranging repairs. Status updates and documentation can be managed through your online account or with your adjuster.
Is rental car coverage included if my vehicle is being repaired?
Rental vehicle costs are covered under certain conditions—if you are not at fault in the accident, or if you have purchased an SGI Auto Pak extension policy that includes rental coverage. If your basic coverage does not include this benefit, you can add it to your policy via extension for an additional premium.
Can I change from No Fault to Tort coverage after an accident?
Once an accident or injury has occurred, you cannot change your injury coverage option retroactively. To select Tort coverage, you must make the election before any claim event, and each driver or family member can make this choice individually. Coverage changes can be made without fees and take effect immediately upon processing.
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with SGI?
SGI works directly with approved repair shops, so in many cases, payment for eligible repairs is made directly to the shop after your claim is approved. If you choose a non-partner shop or the claim does not meet SGI requirements, you may need to pay up front and seek reimbursement. For towing after an accident, payment may be direct if services are covered; otherwise, keep your receipts for reimbursement through your adjuster.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with SGI?
You can cancel your SGI car insurance at any time by visiting a motor licence issuer, using the online service, or calling SGI; generally, no formal notice period is required, but bring your registration and provide personal and vehicle details to process the cancellation.
What is included in SGI’s basic plate insurance?
SGI’s basic plate insurance covers collision, fire, theft, vandalism, and certain weather events for your vehicle, subject to a deductible, as well as third-party liability and personal injury protection. This package is included automatically with Saskatchewan vehicle registration. You can upgrade coverages or limits by purchasing extension policies, called Auto Pak, from brokers.
How do I file a claim with SGI?
You can report a claim with SGI online, by phone (1-844-855-2744), or at a claims centre. Gather as much information about the incident as possible, including photos and details about the people involved. An SGI adjuster will review your claim, and you’ll follow the steps for getting a repair estimate and arranging repairs. Status updates and documentation can be managed through your online account or with your adjuster.
Is rental car coverage included if my vehicle is being repaired?
Rental vehicle costs are covered under certain conditions—if you are not at fault in the accident, or if you have purchased an SGI Auto Pak extension policy that includes rental coverage. If your basic coverage does not include this benefit, you can add it to your policy via extension for an additional premium.
Can I change from No Fault to Tort coverage after an accident?
Once an accident or injury has occurred, you cannot change your injury coverage option retroactively. To select Tort coverage, you must make the election before any claim event, and each driver or family member can make this choice individually. Coverage changes can be made without fees and take effect immediately upon processing.