Independent Insurance Agents

Answer:

There are basically two types of insurance agents. Independent agents sell the products of several different insurance and/or financial companies. Exclusive agents (also known as captive agents or career agents) sell and represent insurance and financial products for one particular company. It's up to you to choose the type of agent who best suits your needs. While an exclusive agent at a large company may offer you the services and backing of a big organization, an independent agent (or broker) can pick and choose from a greater number of available products and may tailor policies to meet your specific needs.

Many independent agents work alone, with accounting, clerical, and other office support. Others operate a "brokerage shop," managing a staff of producers (brokers) who market the products they have contracted to sell. Some independent agents may not technically be independent at all. They may be members of an independent marketing organization (IMO) where they have signed a contract (often temporary) to exclusively sell the product line of one company.

No matter which type of agent you choose, make sure that person is someone you like and respect. After all, you'll be revealing a lot of personal information. Find out, too, what professional qualifications and designations your agent has and how long the agency or agent has been in business.