Progressive Insurance Company: Everything You Need to Know in 2026

Progressive Insurance Company has grown into one of America's largest auto insurers, serving millions of drivers with competitive rates and innovative technology. This comprehensive guide is designed for current customers, potential policyholders, and anyone researching car insurance options who wants the latest information about Progressive's offerings in 2026.

We'll break down Progressive's complete range of insurance products and coverage options, from basic liability to comprehensive protection packages. You'll also discover their cutting-edge technology innovations, including usage-based insurance programs and digital tools that set them apart from traditional insurers. Finally, we'll examine their pricing structure and reveal specific cost-saving opportunities that could lower your premiums significantly.

Company Overview and Market Position

Progressive's Founding History and Core Mission

Progressive Insurance was born in 1937 when Jack Green and Joe Lewis started the company in Cleveland, Ohio, with just $100 in capital. Their original vision was simple yet revolutionary: provide vehicle owners with security and protection at competitive rates. What set them apart from day one was their willingness to insure high-risk drivers that other companies wouldn't touch, creating a niche that would define their business model for decades.

The company's mission has evolved but maintained its core principle of making insurance accessible to everyone. Today, Progressive focuses on becoming customers' #1 choice and destination for auto, home, and other insurance needs by delivering competitive prices, easy-to-use products and services, fast claims service, and 24/7 customer support.

Their founding philosophy of innovation continues to drive the company forward. From introducing the first drive-in claims service in 1937 to pioneering usage-based insurance programs in recent years, Progressive has consistently pushed boundaries in an industry often resistant to change.

Current Market Share and Competitive Standing

Progressive holds a commanding position in the U.S. auto insurance market, ranking as the third-largest auto insurer nationally with approximately 13.8% market share as of 2024. The company insures over 26 million vehicles across the United States, generating annual premiums exceeding $56 billion.

The competitive landscape shows Progressive trailing only State Farm (16.9% market share) and GEICO (14.2%), but the gap continues to narrow. What's particularly impressive is Progressive's growth trajectory – they've gained market share consistently over the past decade while many traditional insurers have struggled to adapt to changing consumer preferences.

Rank	Insurance Company	Market Share	Approximate Premiums
1	State Farm	16.9%	$48.7B
2	GEICO	14.2%	$45.8B
3	Progressive	13.8%	$56.2B
4	Allstate	10.1%	$39.4B
5	USAA	6.8%	$24.1B

Progressive's strength lies in their direct-to-consumer model and digital-first approach, which resonates particularly well with younger demographics and price-conscious consumers.

Key Differentiators from Other Insurance Providers

Progressive has built their reputation on several distinctive features that separate them from traditional insurance companies. Their "Name Your Price" tool revolutionized how customers shop for insurance by allowing them to input their desired premium and see what coverage options fit their budget – a complete reversal of the traditional model.

The Snapshot program represents another major differentiator. This usage-based insurance technology monitors actual driving behavior through a mobile app or plug-in device, offering discounts to safe drivers based on real data rather than demographic assumptions. This program has attracted millions of customers who appreciate being judged on their actual driving rather than statistical profiles.

Progressive's transparency in pricing and comparison shopping sets them apart significantly. They're one of the few insurers that openly display competitor rates alongside their own quotes, demonstrating confidence in their pricing and commitment to helping customers make informed decisions. This approach has earned significant customer trust and loyalty.

Their claims service innovation includes features like:

• 24/7 claim reporting through multiple channels

• Concierge claim service for comprehensive claims

• Immediate response teams in many markets

• Mobile claim vans that come directly to customers

Recent Acquisitions and Strategic Partnerships

Progressive's growth strategy has included several strategic acquisitions that expanded their market reach and technological capabilities. The acquisition of ARX Holding Corp. in 2019 for $2.4 billion significantly enhanced their commercial auto insurance capabilities and fleet management services.

The company has also invested heavily in homeowners insurance through partnerships and acquisitions. Their collaboration with various home insurance carriers allows them to bundle products effectively, creating a comprehensive insurance solution that competes directly with traditional full-service insurers.

Recent partnerships with major automotive manufacturers have positioned Progressive at the forefront of connected car technology. These relationships enable the company to integrate their insurance products directly into vehicle systems, creating seamless experiences for customers and valuable data streams for risk assessment.

Their investment in insurtech companies and technology partnerships demonstrates commitment to staying ahead of industry disruption. Progressive has partnered with companies specializing in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics to enhance their underwriting processes and customer experience platforms.

Insurance Products and Coverage Options

Auto Insurance Policies and Customization Features

Progressive's auto insurance stands out for its flexibility and comprehensive coverage options. The company offers all standard coverages including liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist protection, but what really sets them apart is their extensive customization features.

Their Snapshot program remains one of the most popular features, allowing drivers to potentially save money based on their actual driving habits. This telematics program tracks factors like hard braking, rapid acceleration, and time of day driving through either a mobile app or plug-in device. Safe drivers can earn discounts up to 30% on their premiums.

The Name Your Price tool gives customers control over their budget by showing coverage options that fit within their desired price range. This transparency helps drivers understand exactly what they're paying for and make informed decisions about their coverage levels.

Progressive also offers unique add-ons like pet injury coverage, which pays for veterinary bills if your pet gets hurt in a car accident, and custom parts coverage for vehicle modifications. Their rideshare coverage bridges the gap between personal auto insurance and commercial coverage for Uber and Lyft drivers.

Gap insurance, rental car coverage, and roadside assistance round out their comprehensive suite of options. The company's online tools make it easy to adjust deductibles, add or remove coverage, and see how changes affect your premium in real-time.

Home and Renters Insurance Offerings

Progressive entered the home insurance market through partnerships and acquisitions, now offering competitive rates and solid coverage options. Their homeowners insurance covers the standard perils including fire, theft, vandalism, and weather damage, with optional endorsements for high-value items like jewelry and art.

The company's HomeQuote Explorer tool helps customers compare coverage options and understand different policy features. This educational approach helps homeowners make better decisions about coverage limits and deductibles.

For renters, Progressive provides personal property coverage, liability protection, and additional living expenses if you're displaced from your rental. Their renters insurance is particularly affordable, often costing less than $20 per month for basic coverage.

Progressive's home insurance includes some modern features like coverage for home-sharing activities (like Airbnb hosting) and identity theft protection. They also offer discounts for bundling home and auto insurance, installing security systems, and maintaining a claims-free history.

Water damage coverage gets special attention in their policies, with options for backup of sewers and drains, which many basic policies exclude. This extra protection can save homeowners thousands of dollars in potential damages.

Commercial and Business Insurance Solutions

Progressive's commercial insurance division serves businesses of all sizes, from single-vehicle operations to large fleets. Their commercial auto coverage is particularly strong, offering protection for everything from pickup trucks to tractor-trailers.

Fleet management tools help business owners track driver behavior, manage fuel costs, and improve safety records. These digital tools integrate with Progressive's telematics programs to provide detailed reporting on vehicle usage and driver performance.

The company offers specialized coverage for different industries including contractors, restaurants, and retail businesses. Their business owner's policies (BOP) combine general liability and commercial property coverage at discounted rates for eligible small businesses.

For trucking companies, Progressive provides comprehensive coverage including motor truck cargo, general liability, and physical damage protection. Their TruckSuite program offers additional services like roadside assistance, equipment rental, and regulatory compliance support.

Workers' compensation insurance rounds out their commercial offerings in many states, providing medical coverage and wage replacement for employees injured on the job. Progressive's online portal makes it easy for business owners to manage policies, file claims, and access certificates of insurance quickly.

Unique Features and Technology Innovations

Snapshot Usage-Based Insurance Program Benefits

Progressive's Snapshot program stands out as one of the most sophisticated usage-based insurance offerings in the market. The program tracks your actual driving habits through a mobile app or plug-in device, monitoring factors like hard braking, rapid acceleration, time of day you drive, and total mileage. Safe drivers can earn significant discounts up to 30% off their premiums, making it particularly attractive for cautious drivers who want their good habits reflected in their rates.

The program offers flexibility with both app-based and device-based monitoring options. The mobile app version uses your smartphone's sensors to track driving behavior, while the plug-in device connects directly to your car's diagnostic port. Both methods provide detailed feedback about your driving patterns, helping you identify areas for improvement while potentially lowering your insurance costs.

What makes Snapshot especially valuable is its personalized approach. Rather than relying solely on traditional risk factors like age or location, the program creates a unique risk profile based on your individual driving behavior. This benefits drivers who may typically face higher rates due to demographic factors but demonstrate safe driving practices.

Name Your Price Tool and Pricing Flexibility

Progressive's Name Your Price tool revolutionizes how customers shop for insurance by allowing them to input their desired premium amount and receive coverage options that fit their budget. This innovative approach flips the traditional insurance shopping experience, where customers typically receive quotes and then decide if they can afford the coverage.

The tool works by adjusting coverage levels, deductibles, and policy features to match your specified price point. While you might need to accept higher deductibles or reduced coverage limits to hit your target price, the transparency helps you make informed decisions about the trade-offs between cost and protection.

This pricing flexibility extends beyond the initial quote. Progressive regularly reviews and adjusts rates based on claims data, driving records, and other factors, often providing mid-term adjustments that can lower your premiums. The company's competitive pricing strategy includes features like automatic discounts for bundling policies, safe driving records, and vehicle safety features.

Mobile App Capabilities and Digital Claims Processing

Progressive's mobile app delivers comprehensive functionality that transforms how customers manage their insurance. The app allows you to pay bills, view policy details, access digital ID cards, and request roadside assistance with just a few taps. The user interface prioritizes simplicity while providing access to detailed policy information and account management tools.

The digital claims processing through the app streamlines what was once a cumbersome process. You can report claims immediately after an incident, upload photos of damage, track claim status in real-time, and communicate directly with adjusters through the platform. The app's photo estimation technology can often provide instant damage assessments for minor claims, significantly reducing processing times.

Progressive's app also includes useful features like trip tracking for Snapshot participants, policy comparison tools, and personalized insurance recommendations. The roadside assistance feature uses GPS to pinpoint your location automatically, reducing wait times and improving service efficiency. Regular app updates introduce new features and improve existing functionality based on customer feedback.

Flo Advertising Campaign Impact and Brand Recognition

Progressive's Flo character has become one of the most recognizable insurance spokespersons in the industry, fundamentally changing how the company connects with customers. Since her debut in 2008, actress Stephanie Courtney's portrayal of the enthusiastic Progressive employee has appeared in hundreds of commercials, creating unprecedented brand recognition and customer engagement.

The campaign's success extends beyond entertainment value. Flo's character embodies Progressive's customer service philosophy, presenting insurance concepts in an accessible, friendly manner that demystifies complex coverage options. The consistent messaging and character development have built trust and familiarity with the Progressive brand, particularly among younger demographics who appreciate the campaign's humor and relatability.

This marketing approach has translated into measurable business results. Progressive consistently ranks among the top insurance companies for brand awareness, and the Flo campaign has helped the company maintain competitive market share in an increasingly crowded industry. The character's popularity has even spawned merchandise and social media engagement, extending the brand's reach beyond traditional advertising channels.

The campaign's longevity demonstrates Progressive's commitment to consistent brand messaging while adapting to changing marketing landscapes and customer preferences.

Pricing Structure and Cost-Saving Opportunities

Discount Programs and Eligibility Requirements

Progressive offers an extensive array of discount programs designed to help customers save significantly on their insurance premiums. The company's most popular discount is the Snapshot program, which monitors driving habits through a mobile app or plug-in device. Safe drivers can earn up to 30% off their rates by demonstrating good driving behaviors like smooth braking, maintaining safe speeds, and avoiding late-night driving.

Multi-vehicle discounts apply when you insure more than one car on the same policy, typically saving 5-25% per vehicle. Homeowners receive automatic discounts, as do customers who pay their full premium upfront rather than monthly installments. Students maintain eligibility for good student discounts with a B average or better, while away-at-school discounts apply when college students leave their cars at home.

Professional discounts extend to various occupations, including teachers, engineers, and healthcare workers. Military personnel and federal employees qualify for special rates, while mature drivers over 55 can access additional savings through defensive driving courses.

Progressive's continuous insurance discount rewards customers who maintain coverage without lapses, even if switching from another carrier. The online quote discount provides immediate savings for customers who complete their purchase digitally, and paperless billing offers small but consistent monthly reductions.

Bundle Savings for Multiple Policies

Progressive's bundling opportunities create substantial savings when combining auto insurance with other coverage types. The most significant bundle savings come from pairing auto and home insurance, where customers typically save 5-20% on both policies. This partnership works through Progressive's relationship with select home insurance providers, creating seamless coverage management.

Renters insurance bundles offer excellent value for apartment dwellers and renters, often costing as little as $10-15 monthly when added to an existing auto policy. The combined billing simplifies payments while reducing overall insurance costs.

Commercial insurance customers access enhanced bundling options, combining business auto, general liability, and property coverage under unified policies. These commercial bundles often include additional perks like dedicated account management and streamlined claims processing.

Progressive's bundling calculator helps customers identify optimal combinations before purchasing, showing real-time savings estimates for various coverage configurations. The company's transparent bundling structure means discounts apply immediately rather than requiring annual renewals or specific tenure requirements.

Payment Options and Billing Flexibility

Progressive accommodates diverse financial situations through flexible payment arrangements and multiple billing options. Customers choose between monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or annual payment schedules, with paid-in-full options offering the greatest savings by eliminating installment fees.

The company accepts various payment methods including credit cards, debit cards, electronic bank transfers, and traditional checks. Automatic payment enrollment provides small discounts while ensuring coverage continuity, with customers selecting their preferred payment dates within reasonable ranges.

Progressive's mobile app enables instant payments, policy adjustments, and payment scheduling changes. The digital platform allows customers to modify payment amounts, skip payments during financial hardships through approved deferment programs, or accelerate payments to pay off policies early.

For customers experiencing temporary financial difficulties, Progressive offers payment extensions and customized payment plans. These hardship programs prevent policy lapses while providing breathing room during challenging periods. The company's customer service team works individually with policyholders to create sustainable payment arrangements that maintain continuous coverage.

Down payment options vary based on coverage selections and individual risk profiles, with some customers qualifying for zero-down policies while others may need 10-25% upfront. Progressive's payment flexibility extends to claims settlements, offering multiple payout options including direct deposit, checks, or repairs paid directly to service providers.

Customer Experience and Service Quality

Claims Process Efficiency and Satisfaction Ratings

Progressive has built a reputation for handling claims quickly and transparently. The company processes most claims within 24-48 hours, with simple claims often resolved the same day. Their online claims reporting system allows customers to submit claims anytime, upload photos, and track progress in real-time.

Customer satisfaction scores consistently rank Progressive above industry averages, with J.D. Power studies showing particularly strong ratings for claim settlement speed and communication quality. The company's photo estimate feature lets customers get repair estimates without waiting for an adjuster in many cases, significantly reducing processing time.

Progressive's claim representatives are available 24/7, and the company has invested heavily in training to ensure consistent service quality. Most customers report positive experiences with the straightforward process and regular updates throughout claim resolution.

Customer Support Channels and Availability

Progressive offers multiple ways to reach customer service, recognizing that people prefer different communication methods. Phone support operates around the clock with generally short wait times, averaging under five minutes during peak hours.

The company provides:

• 24/7 phone support with dedicated lines for claims, billing, and general inquiries

• Live chat available on their website and mobile app

• Email support with typical response times under 24 hours

• Social media support through Facebook and Twitter

• Local agent network for face-to-face assistance

Their customer service team receives regular training on product updates and communication best practices. The company has also implemented callback options to reduce hold times, allowing customers to request a return call rather than waiting on hold.

Online Account Management Features

Progressive's website offers comprehensive self-service options that many customers find convenient for routine tasks. The online portal allows users to view and pay bills, update coverage, add or remove vehicles, and access policy documents instantly.

Key online features include:

• Bill pay and autopay setup with multiple payment options

• Coverage modifications without calling customer service

• Digital ID cards that satisfy most state requirements

• Billing history and statements with downloadable PDFs

• Policy renewal management with customizable reminders

The website interface is intuitive and mobile-responsive, making it easy to navigate on different devices. Customers can also set up notifications for payment due dates, policy changes, and renewal reminders.

Mobile Service Capabilities and Convenience

The Progressive mobile app stands out as one of the more comprehensive insurance apps available. Beyond basic account management, it includes several innovative features that customers find genuinely useful in daily life.

The app's standout features include:

• Snapshot driving tracking for usage-based insurance discounts

• Roadside assistance GPS location sharing for faster service

• Photo claim submission with guided photo capture

• Digital garage for managing multiple vehicles

• Flo chatbot for quick answers to common questions

One particularly popular feature is the app's ability to help customers find their parked car and track parking meter time. The driving insights feature shows detailed trip information and safety scores, which many users find motivating for improving driving habits.

The app receives regular updates with new functionality, and Progressive actively responds to user feedback in app store reviews. Download ratings consistently stay above 4.5 stars across both iOS and Android platforms, reflecting strong user satisfaction with the mobile experience.

Financial Stability and Company Performance

Financial Strength Ratings and Stability Indicators

Progressive maintains rock-solid financial footing that positions it as one of the most stable insurance companies in the market. A.M. Best rates Progressive with an A+ (Superior) financial strength rating, while Standard & Poor's assigns an AA- rating with a stable outlook. Moody's provides an A1 rating, all of which signal exceptional financial health and claims-paying ability.

The company's combined ratio consistently performs well, typically ranging between 90-95%, which means Progressive collects more in premiums than it pays out in claims and expenses. This strong underwriting performance creates a healthy margin for the company while keeping rates competitive for customers.

Progressive's capital adequacy stands out with a risk-based capital ratio well above regulatory requirements. The company maintains diversified revenue streams across auto, home, commercial, and specialty lines, reducing dependency on any single product category. Their conservative investment approach and strong cash flow generation provide additional stability during economic downturns.

Recent Financial Performance and Growth Metrics

Progressive's financial performance in recent years shows impressive growth trajectory. Annual revenue has grown from $47.7 billion in 2021 to over $65 billion in 2024, representing a compound annual growth rate exceeding 10%. Net income has similarly expanded, reaching $6.3 billion in 2024 compared to $4.4 billion in 2021.

Policy count growth remains robust, with the company adding millions of new customers annually. Personal auto policies in force have grown by approximately 8% year-over-year, while commercial auto has seen even stronger growth at 12-15% annually. Home insurance, though a smaller segment, has experienced rapid expansion with growth rates exceeding 20%.

Market share continues to climb, with Progressive now holding approximately 17% of the U.S. auto insurance market, making it the third-largest auto insurer nationally. The company's return on equity consistently outperforms industry averages, typically running between 15-20%, demonstrating efficient capital utilization.

Book value per share has increased steadily, reflecting the company's ability to retain and grow shareholder value. Operating cash flow remains strong, providing ample resources for technology investments, dividend payments, and strategic initiatives.

Investment Strategies and Market Outlook

Progressive follows a conservative investment philosophy focused on capital preservation and liquidity management. The investment portfolio primarily consists of high-grade fixed-income securities, with approximately 85% allocated to government bonds, municipal bonds, and investment-grade corporate debt. This approach prioritizes stability over aggressive returns, aligning with insurance industry best practices.

The company maintains a relatively short duration profile in its bond portfolio, typically around 3-4 years, which helps protect against interest rate volatility. Cash and short-term investments comprise roughly 10-15% of the portfolio, ensuring adequate liquidity for claims payments and operational needs.

Equity investments represent a smaller portion, usually 10-15% of total invested assets, providing growth potential while maintaining overall portfolio stability. Progressive avoids complex derivatives and high-risk investments, focusing instead on transparent, liquid securities.

Looking ahead, the market outlook for Progressive remains positive. Several factors support continued growth: increasing vehicle miles traveled as the economy expands, rising car values that boost premium levels, and growing demand for commercial transportation services. The shift toward usage-based insurance and telematics creates opportunities for better risk assessment and pricing accuracy.

Challenges include potential economic headwinds that could pressure consumer spending, increased competition from both traditional insurers and insurtech startups, and regulatory changes affecting rate-setting flexibility. Climate-related weather events may also impact claims costs, though Progressive's geographic diversification helps mitigate regional risks.

The company's strong technology platform positions it well to adapt to changing market conditions and customer preferences, while its financial strength provides flexibility to navigate economic uncertainties and invest in future growth opportunities.

Pros and Cons Analysis

Key advantages of choosing Progressive

Progressive stands out with its innovative approach to insurance technology and customer-focused features. The Snapshot program revolutionizes how drivers can save money by monitoring actual driving habits instead of relying solely on traditional risk factors. Safe drivers often see substantial discounts of up to 30% off their premiums, making it a game-changer for those with clean driving records.

The Name Your Price tool gives customers unprecedented control over their insurance shopping experience. You can set your budget first, then see what coverage options fit within that range. This transparency eliminates the guesswork and helps you make informed decisions without breaking the bank.

Progressive's digital platform excels in user experience. The mobile app allows you to manage claims, view your policy, and even get roadside assistance with just a few taps. The claims process is notably fast, with many customers receiving payments within days rather than weeks.

Coverage options are remarkably flexible. Progressive offers bundling opportunities for auto, home, renters, and commercial insurance, often resulting in significant multi-policy discounts. Their usage-based insurance options cater to drivers who don't put many miles on their vehicles, providing fair pricing based on actual usage rather than estimates.

The company's extensive agent network combined with direct online sales gives customers multiple ways to purchase and manage their policies. Whether you prefer face-to-face interaction or digital convenience, Progressive accommodates both preferences seamlessly.

Potential drawbacks and limitations

Progressive's pricing can be inconsistent across different customer profiles. While some drivers enjoy competitive rates, others may find quotes significantly higher than competitors, particularly those with recent accidents or violations on their records. The company's risk assessment algorithms can be quite sensitive to negative driving history.

Customer service experiences vary widely among policyholders. While many appreciate the digital tools and quick claims processing, some customers report difficulty reaching knowledgeable representatives for complex issues. The heavy emphasis on digital channels can frustrate customers who prefer traditional phone or in-person service.

The Snapshot program, while beneficial for safe drivers, raises privacy concerns for some customers. The device tracks location data, driving times, and habits, which makes certain individuals uncomfortable. Additionally, poor drivers might see their rates increase rather than decrease after participating in the program.

Coverage gaps can be problematic in certain situations. Progressive's basic policies may not include features that other insurers offer as standard, requiring customers to purchase additional coverage that increases overall costs. Their rental car coverage and roadside assistance limits are sometimes lower than industry standards.

Rate increases can be steep and frequent. Some long-term customers report significant premium jumps at renewal time, even without claims or violations. The company's aggressive growth strategy sometimes translates to higher rates for existing customers to fund expansion and new customer acquisition incentives.

Best customer profiles for Progressive insurance

Tech-savvy drivers who embrace digital tools and mobile apps find Progressive's platform particularly appealing. If you're comfortable managing your insurance online, filing claims through an app, and using digital payment methods, Progressive's technology-first approach will likely satisfy your needs.

Safe drivers with clean records benefit most from Progressive's discount programs and usage-based insurance options. The Snapshot program rewards cautious driving habits, making it ideal for drivers who maintain good speeds, avoid hard braking, and drive during safer daylight hours. Young drivers who practice safe habits can overcome typical age-related rate penalties.

Budget-conscious consumers appreciate Progressive's transparent pricing tools and customizable coverage options. The Name Your Price feature helps those with strict budgets find appropriate coverage without overspending. Customers who prefer to comparison shop and actively manage their insurance costs often find Progressive's tools valuable.

High-mileage drivers or those with non-standard vehicles should look elsewhere, as Progressive's rates can be less competitive for these profiles. Similarly, customers who prioritize personal relationships with agents or prefer extensive hand-holding during the insurance process might find Progressive's digital-first approach impersonal.

First-time insurance buyers often benefit from Progressive's educational resources and straightforward online quote process. The company's marketing and user experience cater well to customers who are new to insurance shopping and need guidance without pressure from sales representatives.

Progressive has built quite a reputation as one of the insurance industry's most innovative companies, and for good reason. From their comprehensive coverage options and cutting-edge technology features to their transparent pricing and strong financial foundation, they've managed to shake up the traditional insurance model. Their Snapshot program, Name Your Price tool, and 24/7 claims service show they're serious about making insurance work better for everyday people. While they might not always offer the cheapest rates for every driver, their combination of discounts, digital tools, and reliable service creates real value.

If you're shopping for car insurance in 2026, Progressive deserves a spot on your comparison list. Their strengths in technology, customer service, and financial stability make them a solid choice for many drivers. Take advantage of their online quote system to see how their rates stack up against your current coverage. Remember to explore all their discount opportunities and consider whether features like accident forgiveness or gap coverage could benefit your specific situation. The insurance market keeps evolving, and Progressive continues to lead that change in ways that often work in customers' favor.