If you live in Arizona, unless you live under a rock (which is possible — there are a lot of rocks here), I'm sure you've seen the numerous "cash back fast" offers by auto glass repair shops. So... what's the catch, and more importantly — is cash back for your windshield even legal?
It is legal in Arizona to offer cash back for windshield repair. However, it's very important to note: cash back for windshield replacement laws are on a state-by-state basis. Make sure you don't get caught in a windshield repair scam.
Why Can Auto Glass Repair Shops in Arizona Offer So Much Money?
Here's how the process works, step by step:
- Windshield gets damaged. Customer is driving down the road and gets their windshield smashed by a rock. Our imaginary customer has auto glass insurance — let's say Geico.
- Customer files a claim. The Geico insurance agent asks if the crack is larger than a dollar bill (to see if it qualifies for a replacement). In our scenario, it does.
- Insurance suggests a shop. The Geico claims agent tells you about their preferred windshield replacement shop in your area.
- Shop replaces the windshield. The windshield company drives out to your location and replaces your windshield.
- This is where cash back comes in. Auto glass repair companies in Arizona try to insert themselves between steps 3 and 4 — offering you cash back as an incentive to choose them instead of the insurance company's preferred shop.
Hatch Auto Glass and many other companies will bring a check or cash at the time of replacement. The windshield repair company is paying you before they get paid, because auto insurance companies pay out on already-decided industry rates for each type of windshield. This means the money is essentially guaranteed for the auto glass shop (with fraud excluded, of course).
What Really Sets a Windshield Company Apart
While a little cash back in Arizona is nice, Hatch Auto Glass believes what really sets the windshield company apart is customer service, windshield quality, technician skill level, and speed.
Hatch Auto Glass strives to be the best auto glass repair company in Arizona. We're open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM Monday through Saturday for your windshield needs. Call or text us at (480) 447-3277.