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. The Allen Thomas Group Insurance Agency . 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.
We take the time to understand your unique needs and circumstances, ensuring that the insurance solutions we provide are tailored to your life, your assets, and your aspirations. Our expertise, independence, and commitment to your well-being set us apart in the world of insurance. So, why choose The Allen Thomas Group Independent Insurance Agency? Because when you choose us, you choose more than just policies; you choose a future filled with security, confidence, and peace of mind. Get started today and let us be your beacon in the world of insurance. Your peace of mind is our mission. Contact us now and unlock the peace of mind you deserve with The Allen Thomas Group – Your Trusted Independent Insurance Agency.
On top of personalized customer service, an independent agent can use their knowledge of companies and policies to steer you in the right direction. Most independent insurance agents work strictly on commission, which means they get paid a percentage of the premium amount for your insurance. In those cases, it is in the agent’s best interest to keep their clients happy. Independent insurance agencies can work with all types of companies, ranging from smaller insurance companies to major ones, like The Allen Thomas Group.
One of the major benefits of working with independent agents includes getting many quick quotes from multiple insurance carriers. If someone is shopping for insurance, independent agents are a great place to start checking out policies because they can check several different companies’ rates all at once. The more companies checked equals the greater chance of finding the best rate for you and your family. The time-saving factor is huge because a prospective policyholder only has to provide their information one time. Independent agents and insurance brokerage companies both take the sales approach of representing the customer first and offering a variety of products from different insurers; however, insurance brokerage companies are typically larger than independent insurance agencies. Additionally, brokerage companies may be either independent or captive. Independent brokerages are not affiliated with any insurance companies, and they are able to recommend and sell clients any product that is in their best interest.
Pricing varies by state, agency size and revenue. If you have any questions, the Big “I" is standing by to assist you. An independent agent is an insurance agent that sells insurance policies provided by several different insurance carriers, rather than just a single insurance company. The independent agent acts as a middleman to connect insurance buyers and sellers in order to facilitate a transaction. Independent agents receive commissions for the policies that they sell and are not considered employees of any specific insurance company.
However, there are other startup expenses such as creating an attractive website and buying computers and other technology tools. Depending on your business plan, you should have a minimum of at least $5,000 set aside in the beginning. You might even need as much as $50,000, depending on rent, furniture and other equipment. Estimate the potential revenue from the number of policies you'll need to sell to reach a break-even point. Of course, the amount needed for living expenses is a big factor as well. Lastly, do you have a wide group of social and business acquaintances in your community? That's an asset that'll help you grow. Most independent agents get involved in service organizations and nonprofit boards. However, many business and personal lines customers won't want to consider changing insurance agents until their annual policy renewal, unless they are experiencing a service problem. The insurance licenses you need to run an independent agency vary depending on your state. All states have different categories for these licenses and their own specific requirements.
One of the best benefits to working with an independent insurance agency is having them shop for insurance quotes for you. With access to multiple companies, the independent insurance agent can check rates and coverage types with multiple companies at once. You only have to provide your household information once, which saves you time. Independent insurance agents may also know which companies have the qualities you’re looking for, which will also save you time and could potentially save you money. When your policy comes up for renewal, you can let an independent agent know about an insurance increase so they can shop for better rates to help you determine if you should stay with the same company or switch. Even if you switch insurance carriers, you can stay with the same insurance agent.
They are trained to sell policies that the parent company offers and do not have the ability to recommend products from other carriers. As a result, they may not be able to provide a comprehensive range of options. On the other hand, independent insurance agencies represent multiple carriers and can provide customers with several options from several companies. These agents can typically access different policies and compare them based on your specific needs giving you more options than signing up with a captive agent. There are also online or direct-to-consumer insurance agencies that offer policies primarily through digital channels such as email and their website.
According to a study by J.D. Power, customers who are satisfied with their insurance providers are less likely to switch compared to those who aren't happy with their agents’ services; therefore, it’s essential to take customer service seriously. In conclusion, finding a reputable insurance agency involves evaluating their trustworthiness, the availability of policies, financial stability as well as their quality of customer service. Taking these factors into consideration should give you some peace of mind and make choosing your next insurer slightly easier. Choosing the right insurance agency can be a daunting task, but it is crucial in ensuring that you have proper coverage when you need it the most.
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.
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.
When comparing costs between various providers, be sure to check for bundled policy discounts. Lastly, it’s crucial to research the reputation and financial health of the insurer before committing to any policies. This ensures that your policy is sound and valid when you actually need it in the future. Let's consider another example: You've selected an agency and a policy but are concerned about high premiums. After researching this further, you learn that certain safety features like airbags or a rearview camera can significantly reduce your annual premium since these make your car safer and less susceptible to accidents.
Independent Insurance Agency Near Me: Your Trusted Local Partner Wondering, "Is there an independent insurance agency near me that truly cares about my needs?" Look no further than The Allen Thomas Group. While our reach extends nationally, we maintain our local roots in Akron, Ohio. This means you get the personalized service of a local agency with the extensive resources and expertise of a national one. Our local presence allows us to understand the unique challenges and opportunities that Akron and the surrounding communities face.
Secure your home and possessions against unexpected incidents with tailored homeowners insurance coverage that's tailored specifically for you. Your independent insurance agent can also offer options from other companies, including business insurance, commercial property insurance, life and health insurance policies as well as umbrella, classic car and more. Be it starting a business, expanding your family or increasing financial assets - your agent will always have suitable insurance solutions available that meet the changing demands of life.
Customers can often apply for coverage online in a quick and easy process, thereby eliminating the need to meet with an agent in person. Finally, there are insurance brokers who act as intermediaries between policyholders and insurers. Brokers work for the policyholder to find coverage that matches their unique needs by comparing policies offered by various carriers. With different factors impacting individuals' choice of a policy; hence finding an agency that specializes in your area of interest is essential. For example, any homeowner seeking flood insurance should look for agencies offering flood-specific coverage options. Your primary goal when choosing an agency should be finding reliable advice without being required to pay upfront or tied down to purchase a particular product.
The Big “I" is a national trade insurance federation. It consists of more than 50 independent state associations as well as the national association. Its mission is to provide support for independent agents and brokers by offering membership benefits and resources such educational tools, informative publications, networking and more. These associations also serve as advocates for independent insurance agents by working with insurance companies, state insurance departments, the federal government and other stakeholders to maintain a stable and viable marketplace. Through the collective efforts of the Big “I," independent agencies are better equipped to thrive. When starting your own independent agency, there are many ways a membership with the Big “I" can help. Here are just a few benefits of a membership for a startup independent agency. Just as independent agents are an insurance customer's greatest ally in finding quality and affordable coverage, the Big “I" is an independent agency's greatest ally in running a knowledgeable, successful operation.
Finding the right car insurance can seem overwhelming. One way people navigate this complexity is by talking with an independent insurance agent. These agents are licensed to sell insurance products from multiple companies instead of being direct employees of just one company. An independent insurance agent could lighten the load for people who don’t want to do the legwork of collecting quotes and information from different companies. ATG’s insurance experts have put together some helpful information about the potential advantages and disadvantages of using an independent agent. An independent agent works with multiple insurance companies to offer a broader range of insurance products to meet consumer needs.
Brokerage companies may either be independent or captive. Independent brokerages do not work under contract from any insurance companies and can advise and sell clients any product that would best meet their needs. Captive brokerages are affiliated with certain insurance companies and have contracts with certain providers to sell only their products. An example of an independent agent would be an agent working with someone seeking life insurance policies. An agent could utilize multiple providers like Northwestern, Mass Mutual and Prudential in order to locate the optimal life insurance policy for their customer. Benefits of Working with an Independent Insurance Agent [Independent agents provide more options, because they contract with multiple insurers instead of just one]. More options mean more tailored policies to your needs at more reasonable premiums compared with dealing exclusively with captive agents (the opposite of independent insurance agents).
Similarly, someone who works in a high-risk profession like construction or law enforcement may need a policy with more comprehensive liability coverage than the average driver or homeowner. It's also worth noting that there are other factors besides simply "what you own" that can impact the type of insurance coverage you need. For instance, someone who has significant savings or investments may be more inclined to opt for a higher deductible on their policy since they have money set aside to cover unexpected expenses. On the other hand, someone with less financial flexibility may prefer a lower deductible so that they're not faced with an unmanageable bill in the event of an accident or incident.
A local agent is a valuable asset when it comes to insurance. Local agents can provide individualized advice, assist you in navigating complicated insurance policies and give you peace of mind knowing that you or your business are adequately covered in case of accident or disaster.
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.