While marketing and sales are important, so is the agency's ability to provide service when their customers' requirements change or they have a claim. That's why providing customers a choice is important. One size doesn't fit all. The Allen Thomas Group . Your independent agency will need to have a contract with each insurance company you represent. The contract describes the duties of each party.Many exclusive insurance agent companies also contract with independent agents. This was not always the case, but over time many exclusive companies have recognized the close relationship that independent insurance agents have with their clients.
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.
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.
Choosing an insurance agency can be a daunting task, but it is crucial to ensure the safety of your financial future. Here are a few things that you should look for in a reputable insurance agency. 1. Trustworthiness: The first and foremost factor to consider while choosing an insurance agency is their trustworthiness. You must look for an agency with a good reputation and those that have been in business for a long time. This ensures that the insurance company has experience in dealing with clients' needs. 2. Availability of Policies: Look for an insurance agency that offers multiple policies like health, life, home, auto, etc., so that you can get all your needs addressed in one place rather than running around multiple agencies. 3. Financial Stability: Insurance companies are supposed to protect you from financial hazards, but what if they go into bankruptcy? Therefore, it's essential to research the financial stability of the potential insurers before purchasing any policies. One way to do this is by checking their ratings on websites like AM Best or Standard & Poor's. 4. Customer Service: An insurance agent may seem friendly during the sales process, but how they behave after you've become their customer matters more. Check online reviews or ask your friends and family about their experiences with the insurance providers that you're considering.
A good rule of thumb when selecting an insurance agency is researching potential agencies' reviews online before committing. Insurance agencies provide a variety of services related to insurance policies, and agents play a critical role in making these services available to clients. These services range from helping clients understand the types of coverage available and providing advice on selecting policies that meet their needs, to processing claims and handling policy renewals. Agents are highly trained professionals who have a deep understanding of the various types of insurance available, as well as how to match clients with the best possible coverage options based on their unique needs. For example, an auto insurance agent might assess a client's driving record and make recommendations for coverage that is designed to protect them in case of accidents or other unexpected events on the road. Anecdotal evidence can be helpful in illustrating how agents provide these types of services.
This can allow you to build a relationship with your independent insurance agent no matter what company you choose for your insurance policies. While captive agents can also provide personalized customer service, independent insurance agents may be more motivated to work hard to keep your business so you do not go to another agency. This means answering questions about rates, coverages and claims or filing claims on your behalf. If there is an issue with your coverage, you can call on your independent insurance agent to help resolve your problem.
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.
For individual life and disability insurance, insurance companies typically pay a larger commission in the first year. Smaller commissions follow in later years. It's important to maintain an ongoing customer relationship for additional sales, referrals from your customers' friends and relatives, and the opportunity to sell additional policies like home and car insurance to your life and health insurance customers. For a startup insurance agency, being licensed to offer life insurance along with property/casualty insurance can help provide more up-front commission revenue. Even if you want to focus on property/casualty insurance, getting licensed for life/health insurance means you can share commissions if you refer business to a life/health insurance agent. What about the cost for the required courses to study for your licenses? They're not expensive.
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.
The higher the perceived risk, the higher the premium. For example, car insurance premiums are generally based on factors such as age, driving record, and the make and model of the insured vehicle. Health insurance rates can be influenced by factors such as age, pre-existing conditions, and lifestyle habits. According to a report by Insurance Journal in 2020, statistics show that the average cost of auto insurance in the United States is around $1,004 per year. However, this can vary greatly depending on a number of factors including location and age. Furthermore, health insurance premiums averaged $456 per month for an individual in 2019 according to eHealth. It's important to note that insurance agencies may also take into account external factors such as market trends and economic conditions when setting rates. Ultimately, it's up to each particular agency to determine how they set their rates but understanding how they do so can help individuals find the right policy for their needs while saving money in the long run.
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.
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.
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.
All insurance agencies also have a fiduciary responsibility towards their clients to act in their best interests. To help simplify the process, many insurance agencies employ licensed agents who work on behalf of the client to negotiate rates, set up payment schedules, handle claims filing, and answer any questions or concerns. These agents are responsible for providing clients with clear information about policy features, benefits, exclusions and answering any question they may have about their insurance policy. An important feature of most good insurance agencies is their ability to assess risk accurately. This means analyzing various perils that could potentially occur and making predictions based on statistics and data available. The agency will then be able to recommend the right level of protection based on these assessments. For example, if you're purchasing home insurance in a flood-prone area, your insurance agent would likely recommend flood insurance coverage as it might not be included in your standard homeowner's policy.
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.
Agents represent multiple carriers and can provide you with quotes from different providers, giving you the best possible chance of finding affordable coverage that meets your needs. According to a survey conducted by JD Power, customers who worked with agents were found to be more satisfied with their overall experience than those who purchased insurance online (JD Power Auto Insurance Study). In conclusion, while purchasing insurance online may seem like a quick and easy option, working with an insurance agency provides many benefits that cannot be matched. Personalized service, expert advice, and the ability to compare multiple options make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for quality coverage.
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.
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.
Here's why you should make us your first choice: 1. Tailored Solutions for Your Peace of Mind We are not just another insurance agency; we are your partners in securing your future. Our dedicated insurance agents take the time to understand your specific needs and financial goals. We then craft customized insurance packages that provide the coverage you require without unnecessary expenses. 2. Expertise You Can Rely On Our team of experienced insurance agents possesses in-depth knowledge of the insurance landscape. We stay updated on the latest industry trends and regulations to provide you with the most relevant advice and coverage options. With The Allen Thomas Group, you have the assurance of working with seasoned professionals who have your best interests at heart. 3. Independent Agency Advantage Being an independent insurance agency sets us apart. We are not bound to any single insurance provider, which means we can shop the market to find you the best rates and coverage options available. This independence allows us to act solely in your best interest, not the interests of a particular insurance company. 4. A Wide Range of Insurance Services Whether you are seeking car insurance to protect your vehicle, home insurance to safeguard your property, or comprehensive business insurance to secure your livelihood, The Allen Thomas Group has you covered. Our extensive range of insurance services ensures that you get all the coverage you need under one roof. 5. Local Roots, National Reach While we call Akron, Ohio, home, our services extend far beyond state lines. No matter where you are in the United States, The Allen Thomas Group can cater to your insurance needs. We are your local insurance agency with a national presence. 6. Personalized Service Our commitment to you goes beyond policies and paperwork.
Why Choose The Allen Thomas Group Independent Insurance Agency? At The Allen Thomas Group, we understand that insurance is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Our seasoned insurance agents are committed to finding the perfect fit for your needs, be it car insurance, home insurance, or comprehensive business insurance.
Compare cards in one place to find the one for you. Figure out funding for your next car or refinance with confidence. Check out today’s auto loan rates. Drive with peace of mind when you compare insurance carriers and find the policy that’s right for you. We are an independent, advertising-supported comparison service. Our goal is to help you make smarter financial decisions by providing you with interactive tools and financial calculators, publishing original and objective content, by enabling you to conduct research and compare information for free - so that you can make financial decisions with confidence.
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. 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.
Here are some tips for finding the right insurance agency for your needs: 1. Research and compare: Do your homework on different insurance agencies and their policies. Compare coverage options, prices, and customer reviews to find the best fit for you. 2. Check their credentials: Look for an agency that has proper licensing and credentials. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you are working with professionals who are qualified to provide you with the coverage you need. 3. Customer service: Choose an agency that offers excellent customer service. You want to work with someone who is responsive, helpful, and knowledgeable. Good customer service ensures that your questions get answered promptly and accurately. 4. Financial stability: It's important to choose an insurance agency that has financial stability. This means they have a strong rating from independent rating agencies like A.M Best or Standard & Poor's, indicating their ability to pay out claims if needed. 5. Personalized approach: Find an agency that offers customized solutions based on your specific needs. What works for one person may not work for another, so it's important to work with someone who takes the time to understand your unique situation.
Building relationships with independent insurance agents allows you to establish trusting relationships regardless of which insurance policy provider you select for yourself or your family. Independent insurance agents may be more committed to maintaining your business by answering any queries about rates, coverages or claims as well as filing them on your behalf. This could involve anything from providing personalized customer service through answering questions about coverages to filing claims on your behalf. If there's an issue with your coverage, reaching out to an independent agent for help can be invaluable.
Is The Allen Thomas Group only available in Akron, Ohio, or can I access your services from other states? While our roots are in Akron, Ohio, our services are available across the United States. No matter where you're located, you can benefit from our expertise and commitment to exceptional service. Conclusion: Your Journey to Peace of Mind Begins Here The path to financial security and peace of mind often starts with a simple choice – the choice of a trusted insurance agency. The Allen Thomas Group, an independent insurance agency based in Akron, Ohio, stands as your unwavering partner in this journey. With us, you're not just another client; you're family.
Understand which types of licenses you'll need to operate your independent agency before you get too far in the planning process. Without the proper licenses, your agency might not be able to sell insurance to families or business clients. Initially, most of your time will be spent on finding new customers. Over time, be sure your firm can service its existing customers. In the insurance industry, holding onto customers is known as “retention." Successful insurance agencies have a retention rate of 90% or more. For property/casualty insurance agencies, retention is a meaningful goal because the commissions are recurring. Of course, new sales are important to allow the agency to flourish.
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.
Compare car insurance quotes. Compare insurance rates before buying a vehicle. Raise your deductible. Reduce the optional insurance for your older vehicle. Bundle insurance or stick with one company. Keep a clean credit record. Benefit from low-mileage discounts. Ask about group insurance.
A six-month term policy is cheaper than a 12-month one, even though your average premium (or base price) does not change. This is because you pay for the coverage over a shorter time period.
Insurance agents represent one or more insurance companies, and they sell their policies for a commission. An insurance agent will first work with you to determine your insurance needs and budget.