Buying insurance on your own can be overwhelming. Maybe you’re buying your first home, leasing a new car, or starting a small business—you know you need insurance, but what about the finer details of your coverage?
The good news is you don’t have to go it alone. An independent insurance agent can provide expert guidance and individualized support to ensure you find a policy that’s customized to your needs and budget.
What is an independent insurance agent?
An independent insurance agent is a salesperson who contracts with multiple different insurance companies to help customers find the right auto, home, or business insurance policy.
"Unlike captive agents, independent agents work for you—not the insurance company,” says Nicole Carter, VP of Personal Lines Sales and Strategic Distribution at Grange.
Captive agents generally represent large national insurance companies and can only sell policies from those carriers. Independent agents can also sell policies from large companies, but they often work with smaller regional insurance carriers.
"Because they have access to more carriers, independent agents are able to provide a much wider range of policies and products,” Carter says. “This can be especially helpful for customers who are budget-conscious or have complicated coverage needs.”
Carter adds that independent agents also work with customers over the long-term, not just at policy renewal time. “Independent agents track key customer dates and milestones—like birthdays or reminders for families with teenagers reaching driving age or independence—to be able to offer new insurance products that fit customers’ evolving needs,” she says.
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The benefits of working with an independent insurance agent
When you choose to work with an independent agent instead of a captive agent, you’ll be able to take advantage of these benefits:
Customized solutions
"Independent agents work closely within their communities and truly understand the needs of the local consumer,” says Jeremiah Johnson, VP, Commercial Lines Sales and Marketing, Strategy and Operations at Grange. They offer personalized guidance to help you figure out what coverage you actually need, and can help find a policy that meets your coverage needs and budget.
Time and money savings
"An independent agent does the comparison shopping for you,” Johnson says. “And because they contract with more carriers, they may be able to find better rates than you can by searching online.”
Long-term support
Whether you need to modify your policy, find a new carrier, or get advice on filing a claim, an independent agent can provide ongoing guidance and support as your coverage needs change.
More coverage options
"Independent agents provide choice, which is a major advantage in a dynamic marketplace,” Johnson says. “Because of the choice they provide, they have a unique perspective to assist consumers with a variety of needs.”
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What to look for in an independent insurance agent
"While it’s important to find a policy that fits your coverage needs, it’s equally important to find an agent you can trust,” Johnson says. “Choosing an independent agent is no different than selecting other professionals to assist your needs. Review their online presence, check out their social media posts, and read customer reviews. Last but not least, ask friends and family for a referral.”
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) recommends the following considerations for selecting an independent agent:
Credentials
Some agents have different designations that represent their expertise in different areas. For example, an agent with the credentials CRM is a Certified Risk Manager and has specialized training in helping businesses understand and mitigate risks. The credentials CIC (Certified Insurance Counselor) and CPCU (Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter) each recognize an agent’s expertise in insurance policies, regulations and risk management. The CISR, or Certified Insurance Service Representative, designation demonstrates expertise and a commitment to high standards for insurance customer service and risk management.
Licensing
It’s important to ensure that an independent agent is licensed to operate in your state. Many states have online databases you can use to verify an agent’s license, or you can contact your state’s insurance department directly.
Reputation
Does the agent/company have a lot of complaints? How do their customers rate them? You may want to contact your state insurance department or the Better Business Bureau to learn more.
How to find an independent insurance agent
Working with an independent insurance agent may offer significant advantages for customers looking for the right coverage at the best price. “As the market advances and the expectations of the consumer change, independent agents are adapting to offer the best options for their customers,” Carter says.
With access to multiple carriers, personalized guidance, and ongoing support, independent agents can save you time and money while ensuring your policy meets your specific needs. Whether you're a first-time buyer or have complex coverage requirements, an independent agent can simplify the insurance shopping process and provide peace of mind.
Ready to get started? Use this tool to find a licensed, local independent insurance agent near you.
References
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners: How to Choose an Insurance Agent, 2019
Coverages described herein may not be available in all states. Please contact a local independent Grange agent for complete details on coverages and discounts. If the policy coverage descriptions herein conflict with the language in the policy, the language in the policy applies. The material provided above is for informational, educational, or suggestion purposes and does not imply coverage. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO QUOTE ANY INDIVIDUAL PREMIUM RATE FOR THE INSURANCE HEREIN ADVERTISED. Grange Insurance policies are underwritten by Grange Insurance Company, Trustgard Insurance Company, Grange Indemnity Insurance Company, Grange Insurance Company of Michigan and Grange Property & Casualty Insurance Company*. Not all companies are licensed in all states. *Not licensed in Pennsylvania.