Captive insurance agents work for one insurance provider and are accountable for selling its products. Independent agents assist people in finding insurance policies, and as they don't work exclusively for one insurer but instead shop around among various carriers for policies to find customers the best value possible. As opposed to brokers of specific insurance companies who must sell policies offered by those same insurers that might not fit exactly what a customer needs, the best insurance agents understand both worlds. We work with more than 40,000 independent insurance agents and brokers at thousands of insurance agencies nationwide, so you're guaranteed to find one who understands your needs and can get you the best policy and price possible. Find an insurance agent nearby and introduce yourself.
Consider a story about someone who was involved in a car accident and turned to their insurance agent for help navigating the claims process. The agent may have helped the client understand what information they needed to gather to file their claim, assisted in securing a rental car while repairs were being made, and even reached out to medical providers with questions about billing. The Allen Thomas Group Insurance Agency . In this way, the agent acted as a trusted advisor throughout the entire process. Of course, not all agents provide identical services - some may specialize in certain areas of insurance or offer more robust coverage than others. It's important for clients to research different agencies and agents and review what specific services they offer before making a decision about which one to work with. With that said, let's now turn our attention to how clients can go about identifying their insurance needs so that they can make informed decisions when selecting an agency or agent.
Captive brokerages are affiliated with specific insurance companies and have contracts with specific providers to sell only their products. An example of an independent agent would be an insurance agent that has a client looking for a life insurance policy. The agent would be able to contract with many providers, such as Northwestern, Mass Mutual, and Prudential to find the best life insurance policy for the customer. The main advantage of using an independent insurance agent is that you are given more options because the agent contracts with many insurance companies, not just one. Having more options means you can find policies better suited to your needs as well as lower premiums since you have many choices while shopping around. The opposite of an independent insurance agent is a captive insurance agent.
Health insurance is especially important, considering unexpected health complications or accidents that can result in catastrophic medical bills. Choosing an insurance policy is like building a house; a good foundation is key for its durability. Likewise, selecting the right type of insurance policy is essential for financial stability and long-term security. Now that we've covered the different types of insurance policies and coverages available, let's delve into the financial considerations involved in selecting an insurance agency. While selecting an insurance agency isn't solely about finances, understanding the fees and premiums associated with different policies is critical in ensuring that you're making a sound investment decision.
An independent agent may present you with an insurance quote from an unfamiliar company but one that still meets your needs and offers the right insurance coverage for your family. While there are several potential advantages to working with an independent insurance agent, there are also some possible drawbacks. One benefit of working with a captive agent is they are usually experts on the company they represent. This means they know the policy types, coverages, available discounts and how to get you the best deal with the insurance company. Independent agents work with multiple insurance companies, so they may not be as knowledgeable about each one and their policy offerings. You may miss out on unique coverage or discounts because the independent agent wasn’t aware of it. Independent agents usually receive less support than captive agents because they are not partnered with just one company.
Independent agents may present you with an insurance quote from an unfamiliar company that still meets your needs and provides adequate protection for you and your family. There can be numerous advantages and drawbacks of working with an independent insurance agent; one advantage of engaging a captive agent may be their knowledge about your company and products they represent. Insurance agents specialize in specific policy types and coverages; understand discounts offered by insurers; and know the best way to negotiate for a good deal from them. Independent agents work with multiple insurers and may not know as much about each one's offerings or policy offerings. Independent agents typically receive less support than captive agents due to being independent from one company and therefore more susceptible to losing out on exclusive coverage or discounts that might otherwise have been available to you.
Prices vary based on how you buy. Prices for policies sold through agents and brokers are available from them. Because we’re an independent insurance agent, we can select the best insurance coverage for you from the insurance companies that we represent. At The Allen Thomas Group, we pride ourselves on providing numerous insurance options to find the best coverage and service — and the most competitive rates — to fit your individual needs. We offer a full line of products including automobile insurance, homeowners insurance, business insurance and life & health insurance.
Similarly, if you have valuable art or jewelry collection, you may need additional personal property coverage so that all your prized possessions are properly covered. Finally, it is essential to note that different factors such as age, health status, occupation also impact an individual's eligibility for certain types of insurance programs. In such cases, working with a reputable agency can help streamline the application process given that underwriting standards vary widely by carrier. Insurance agencies come in different shapes and sizes, with each specializing in a particular type of insurance. While some offer only one type of policy, others may provide multiple types of coverage. For instance, captive insurance agencies are those that work exclusively with one carrier or insurer.
Insurance offers many career options. Do you enjoy being in charge, setting your own schedule, and having satisfying, well-paying work? If that appeals to you, consider opening your own independent insurance agency. Here's more info on starting an independent agency and why starting one may be right for you. Insurance agents come in two varieties; exclusive agents represent one insurance provider while independent ones can represent multiple policies. Independent insurance agencies operate independently from the companies they represent, giving them the freedom to offer policies from multiple carriers that meet customers' individual needs best. Marketing and sales are important, but an agency's ability to meet customers' changing requirements or address claims quickly is equally vital.
An independent agent is an insurance broker who represents various carriers rather than selling policies from just one. An independent agent acts as an intermediary, connecting buyers and sellers in order to facilitate transactions. Independent agents receive commissions for selling policies they sell without being considered employees of any particular insurance company. A captive agent, by comparison, may only sell the products of the insurance provider they work for. Independent insurance agents, like independent financial advisors, tend to offer their clients more choices when it comes to insurance products. Insurance agents take into account their clients' diverse coverage needs when selecting an affordable policy that offers appropriate protection. An agent that sells policies from only one insurance provider, known as a captive agent.
The parent company will usually provide resources, training and support to captive agents, whereas independent agencies will have to use their own interpretation of companies’ materials to run their business, which could affect the quality of their work. While some large insurance companies will work with independent agents, some do not. So, while you will likely see a greater breadth of quotes from an independent agent, it’s possible that you might miss out on better coverage options or rates from a company that does not work with independent agents. If you don’t want to work with an independent agent or agency, there are other ways to purchase insurance:
Why should I choose an independent insurance agency over a direct insurer? Independent insurance agencies like The Allen Thomas Group offer a distinct advantage. We have access to a wide range of insurance providers, allowing us to compare policies and find the best fit for your needs. Our personalized service and ability to tailor policies make us an ideal choice for those seeking comprehensive coverage.
Mission of NAACB: to offer support for independent agents and brokers by offering membership benefits such as educational tools, informative publications, networking events and networking resources. These associations also act as advocates for independent insurance agents by working closely with insurers, state insurance departments, the federal government and other stakeholders to maintain a stable and profitable marketplace. Independent agencies benefit greatly from the combined efforts of the Big "I". When starting up an independent agency, membership of the Big "I" can offer many advantages; here are just a few benefits for startup independent agencies. Independent agents are essential partners in finding quality and affordable coverage; similarly, independent agencies have in The Big "I" as an ally when it comes to running an efficient operation. Signing up in your state is simple! Simply complete the online form to begin, with pricing varying by state, agency size, and revenue. Should any issues arise or if any questions arise, The Big "I" will always be there to assist.
They are also able to offer similar insurance products across a broad range of companies. Captive agents work with just one insurance company, offering only the products offered by that specific company. There are several potential advantages to working with independent insurance agents vs. captive agents. Working with an independent agent usually does not cost anything and can save the customer time by allowing the agency to shop for quotes from multiple insurance companies. An independent agent may be able to find a better deal for your insurance needs than you can. Ultimately, you will need to decide if these and other possible advantages are beneficial to you.
Most insurers pay commissions based on when customers pay their premiums; businesses and personal lines customers often make payments monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually. Since premium payments may differ depending on customer circumstances, estimating commission revenue for an agency that is just starting up can be challenging. Good news is that property/casualty commissions will continue as long as a customer renews their coverage. With regard to individual life and disability policies, insurance companies usually pay larger commissions during the initial year before decreasing them gradually in subsequent years. Maintaining strong customer relationships is key for continued sales, referrals from your customers' friends and relatives, and the possibility of selling additional policies like home and car insurance to your life and health insurance customers.
Home Insurance: Safeguarding Your Haven Your home is more than just a place; it's where your heart resides. Protecting it is paramount, and The Allen Thomas Group is here to provide the security you deserve through our home insurance solutions: 1. Comprehensive Home Coverage Our home insurance policies cover not only the structure of your home but also your personal belongings. Whether it's damage from natural disasters, theft, or liability coverage, we've got you covered. 2. Customizable Policies We understand that every home is unique, and so are your insurance needs. Our agents work closely with you to create a policy that safeguards your specific circumstances. From condos to single-family homes, we tailor our coverage to fit your requirements. 3. Cost-Efficiency Home insurance doesn't have to break the bank. The Allen Thomas Group is committed to finding you affordable home insurance options while maintaining comprehensive coverage. Your peace of mind should be accessible. 4. Protecting Your Investment Your home is likely one of the most significant investments you'll ever make. Our home insurance policies ensure that your investment is safeguarded against unforeseen events, giving you the financial security you need.
These websites can give you insights into what current customers think about a particular insurance agency. This information can help you determine if the agency is reliable, trustworthy, and has a good reputation. Another way to evaluate an insurance agency's stability is by looking into their financial strength rating. An insurance agency's financial strength rating indicates its ability to pay claims. Insurance agencies are rated by independent rating agencies such as A.M. Best or Standard & Poor's. These rating agencies assess the company's financial health by analyzing several factors such as liquidity, profitability, and capitalization. It is essential to choose an agency with a high financial strength rating to ensure they can fulfill their obligations when you need them. Some people may argue that the size of an insurance agency dictates its stability and reputation; this is not always the case.
Working with an insurance agency like The Allen Thomas Group provides many benefits, including personalized service, expert advice, and the ability to compare multiple insurance options. One benefit of working with an insurance agency is receiving personalized service. An agent can take the time to understand your unique needs and recommend coverage options that fit your specific situation. This level of attention to detail isn't possible when purchasing insurance online. Another advantage is having access to expert advice. Insurance agents are trained professionals who can answer any questions you may have about coverage, claims, and policy changes. They can also offer guidance on risk management strategies for your personal or business needs. Lastly, working with an insurance agency allows you to compare multiple options in one place.
Firstly, insurance agencies provide consultation services to help clients understand their coverage options, premiums, and deductibles. This could be done in person or through various digital channels such as webinars or chatbots. By providing professional advice from licenced experts, it can save clients from potential issues related to insurance policies. Secondly, insurance agencies conduct a thorough risk assessment of their clients' homes, automobiles, businesses, or other assets requiring insurance coverage. It is a crucial part of the process as it helps evaluate the potential risks and prepares for possible losses. Thirdly, they help clients choose the right policies that fit their unique needs and budget. Their role is to ensure that clients make informed decisions about which type of policy will suit them most. With so many insurance policy options available, selecting an adequate one is imperative. Fourthly, an Insurance agency also manages claims processing when unfortunate events occur like thefts and accidents.
As you move through life — to a new apartment, house, a bigger family, a new RV, boat, or motorcycle — your independent insurance agent will always be there for you. Independent insurance agents offer more than auto and home insurance; they provide a wide range of options to cover motorcycles, RVs, and more. No matter what your needs are or where you're at in life, independent insurance agents can provide insurance guidance, customized policies, and personal service. Learn more about the benefits of an independent insurance agent.
Successful insurance agencies usually boast retention rates of at least 90%; property/casualty agencies view retention as particularly relevant since commissions are recurring payments. New sales are essential to an agency's growth, yet successful independent insurance agencies strive for an ideal balance of retention and new sales. Independent agents usually earn between 10% to 12% commission per policy they sell. An agent selling one car policy with an annual premium of $1,000 would typically receive $100-$120 annually as commission.
Are You Searching for a Career or simply need to gain more information on The Allen Thomas Group? Find all of the resources here that you'll need, from answers to insurance queries to current trends analysis and tools for navigating life successfully in our resource center. We offer insurance via phone, online and independent agents; prices depend on how you purchase. Policy prices sold through agents and brokers are readily available from them. As we are an independent insurance agent, we can select the ideal policy from among those we represent.
As independent agents are not fully supported by an insurance provider, they often must create their own business. Independent agents must produce their own marketing material and manage operations independently, yet still benefit from advertising done by specific insurance companies; however, any benefits from an insurance company conducting an aggressive branding advertising campaign may be diminished if an independent agent doesn't sell policies sold by it. Working with independent agents offers many advantages, one being quick access to quotes from multiple insurance carriers. Independent agents offer the perfect start for anyone shopping for insurance as they can quickly compare multiple policies all at once and find you the best possible rate for yourself and your family. The more companies checked, the greater your chance is of locating what could be your ideal policy at an attractive rate. Time savings are immense when providing one-time information about yourself or potential policyholders. Independent agents and brokerage companies both take an approach of placing the customer first while offering multiple products from multiple insurers; however, insurance brokerage companies tend to be larger than independent agencies.
They'll take it from there! Your experience begins with a simple conversation as your independent insurance agent learns more about you before suggesting suitable policies to fit your individual needs. Should an accident happen, The Allen Thomas Group offers comfort in the form of guaranteed repairs, accident forgiveness and an streamlined repair process. As your life changes, from moving into a new apartment, house, having more children or purchasing an RV, boat or motorcycle - your independent insurance agent is always there for you. Independent insurance agents provide more than auto and home policies; they also offer coverage options to cover motorcycles, RVs, boats, etc. No matter your needs or lifestyle stage, independent insurance agents offer expert guidance, tailored policies, and personalized service - discover more of their advantages here.
An independent agent may be contrasted with a captive agent, who can only sell the products of the company they work for. Independent insurance agents, like independent financial advisors, are thought to be able to provide their clients with a wider array of options when it comes to insurance products. They take into account the different coverage needs of the client and select a policy that provides the necessary coverage at a reasonable price. An insurance agent that sells policies offered exclusively by a single insurance company is referred to as a captive agent. While the policies offered by a captive agent may be less expensive than those offered by an independent agent, it will be difficult for the client to know whether they are getting the best deal if only one option is made available.
Before selecting an insurance agency or policy, it's crucial that clients have a clear understanding of what types of coverage they need and what risks or vulnerabilities they're looking to protect against. This might involve assessing the types of assets they own, evaluating their current financial situation, and identifying any unique risks or challenges they face based on their lifestyle or profession. To give an example, a client who owns a home with valuable appliances and electronics may want to consider adding an endorsement that specifically covers those items in case of theft or damage.
Business Insurance: Nurturing Your Enterprise Running a business comes with its own set of risks, but with The Allen Thomas Group's business insurance, you can focus on growth while we handle the protection of your livelihood: 1. Tailored Business Coverage From small startups to established corporations, our business insurance solutions are customized to meet the unique needs of your enterprise. We provide coverage against a range of risks, including property damage, liability, and more. 2. Risk Mitigation Minimizing risks is vital for business sustainability. Our insurance experts analyze your operations and industry to identify potential risks, allowing us to implement strategies that protect your business. 3. Competitive Pricing We understand that businesses need cost-effective solutions. The Allen Thomas Group ensures that you get the coverage you need at a price that aligns with your budget, helping your business thrive. 4. Business Continuity In the face of unexpected disruptions, our business insurance policies provide a safety net that ensures your operations can continue running smoothly. Don't let unforeseen events jeopardize your business's future.
Now we have learned about evaluating an insurance agency's reputation and stability. With proper research and consideration, finding the right insurance agency for your needs should become much easier. Evaluating an insurance agency's reputation and stability is crucial before purchasing insurance. With so many insurance agencies in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. However, taking the time to do your research can help you find an agency that meets your needs and provides you with peace of mind. One way to evaluate an insurance agency's reputation is by checking their customer reviews online. Many websites offer reviews and ratings of insurance companies based on their customer service, claim handling process, and overall satisfaction.
Allen Thomas Group offers quote, bind and issue services at point of sale with automatic underwriter referral if necessary. Independent insurance agents rely on us for access to top-rated markets, product training, sales and marketing support - plus no-fee programs! Home equity refers to any portion of your home you have paid off and could use this as leverage towards meeting other financial goals. Life insurance needn't be complicated: find peace of mind by selecting the appropriate policy. Increase business with rewards and perks tailored specifically to you; compare cards in one convenient place until you find the one that best fits; fund or refinance your next car purchase or refinancing with confidence!
Successful independent insurance agencies strive for a balance of high retention and new sales. Independent insurance agents make an average of 10% to 12% in commission per insurance policy they sell. So, if an agent sells one car insurance policy with an annual premium of $1,000, they will receive $100 to $120 annually in commissions. Home and business insurance have similar commission levels. To receive policy discounts for the customer, many independent insurance agents try to “bundle" car and home insurance policies with the same insurance company. It's a win-win for the customer and the agent when policies can be bundled to the customer's advantage. In short, successful independent insurance agents can make a comfortable living while serving their communities.
The car that you drive is an important factor when it comes to the cost of insurance. The cost of repairs, the engine size, and the safety record of your car are all factors to consider. Automobiles that have high-quality safety equipment may qualify for premium discounts.
Local insurance agencies like The Allen Thomas Group know the area best. Local insurance agencies have the necessary experience to provide you with advice on local issues that may affect your insurance needs. Insurance laws and regulations can also vary from one state to another.
The insurance company does not obligate you to accept their settlement offer. In some cases, accepting an offer immediately could be harmful as it might not cover your losses and injuries.