When the time in your life comes that you need to get insurance, you have a few options. You can go online and get a quick quote from a random company and purchase directly from the website, you could visit an insurance agency that employs its own agents and only sells one brand or type of insurance, or you can visit an independent agent.

What is an independent agent? An independent agent is an insurance agent that sells insurance policies provided by a number of different insurance companies. They are employed by an independent company and work for the client, not an insurance provider. Their job is to provide you with the best coverage for your needs and budget.

Independent agents have been around since 1896. Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America is the association that helps build the structure of independent agencies. Today, more than 7100 independent agencies are selling on behalf of many different insurance carriers across the country.

Independent agents can provide you a number of benefits that an insurance agent or the internet could not. These benefits include:

  • Outstanding Customer Service
  • Ability to Shop the Market
  • Knowledge/Understanding
  • Save Money & Time
  • Protection & Peace of Mind

Outstanding Customer Service

An independent agent’s top priority is their client. They are aiming to provide you with the best customer service possible. They will make sure that you are being provided the best coverage for your needs and budget as well as assist in the event of any changes or claims that are needed. By having an independent agent, there is no need to sit on 800 numbers on end and become frustrated with automated phone lines, your independent agent is there to be your advocate and help you through all things insurance.

Ability to Shop the Market

A part of providing outstanding customer service is that they can shop the market for you. Independent agents can sell any number and type of insurance policies from numerous insurance companies. This means that they can check several different companies all at once and you only need to provide your information once. The more companies that are checked, the greater chance you are able to find the best coverage for your needs and budget.

Knowledge/Understanding

Independent agents are licensed and trained agents who are educated in the products they sell. They also have relationships with all of their insurance companies and are notified the moment that any changes are made and can proactively take care of your insurance needs.

Independent agents also understand that insurance can be complicated and confusing. They will take the time to make sure that you understand every aspect of your insurance coverages and that your risks are fully covered.  They will take the time to get to know you and your needs and suggest any products you may need. An independent agent is not an employee of an insurance company. They work for you. They can give you unbiased opinions and advice while offering you options.

Save Money & Time

Independent agents can save you time and money by making sure that your insurance needs are taken care of in the best way possible and as quick as possible. They can shop the market for you, service your policy as needed, and make changes to your policies or insurance companies as needed. Also, the ability to retain the same agent even if you decide to switch insurance carriers can save you time and money. A strong relationship can be built with your independent agent, and if your rates start to creep up or you become unhappy with the carrier, your agent can find you a new insurance carrier while still being your agent. Independent agents give their clients more options.

Protection & Peace of Mind

Above everything else, an independent agent will provide you with peace of mind. You can rest easy knowing that anytime they save you money, it doesn’t come at the expense of your protection and coverage needs.

When you are looking to get insurance for your home, business, car, life, or any other needs an independent agent is a great place to start. Independent agents can be a great time and money savers for their clients. However, just because an agent is independent doesn’t mean they are the best. You still need to look for good agent qualities, such as availability, knowledgeable, and proactive. Make sure to do your research and find the right independent agent for you and your needs.

Here at Gannon Associates Insurance, we strive every day to build customer loyalty by serving our customers by partnering with them in the management of the risks they face and delivering the best available product at a competitive price with unparalleled service. Give us a call at 844-GANNONS to discuss your insurance needs today!