Tag: captive agent

Posted on

Tips for Selecting the Right Independent Insurance Agent

Ben Johnson of Bob Johnson Insurance in TN

We previously discussed the benefits of an independent insurance agent.  So how do you choose the right agent for you?

Understand the Difference between Independent Agents, and “Captive” Agents.

Captive agents work with one specific insurance company.  As part of their business agreement with that company, they can offer only that company’s insurance products. They may also be required to sell other products from that company, such as annuities and investment plans.

Independent agents and brokers can offer products from many insurance companies. This helps them better serve your interests, as they can review multiple options to find a policy and rate that’s right for you. Insurance rates vary from company to company. Independent agents can put together a customized insurance plan. If one company is competitive one year but not the next, the independent agent can quote other carriers.

Tips for Finding the Right Agent

  • Ask for referrals from friends, family, colleagues and people you trust.
  • Consider location.  Does an agent have an office in your community?  Is the agent/agency involved in the community?
  • Check out their web site.  Read the history and staff information.  Does the site provide adequate insurance information and make it easy to get a quote?
  • Interview the agent.  Ask about credentials and certifications. The meeting or phone call should help you get an idea of their personality and feel respect for their knowledge and integrity.

Knowledge and Trust are Primary

Although knowledge and trust are built over time, look for signs of how the agent does business.  Are they reputable?  Does the agent answer all your questions with adequate information?  Is the agent primarily focused on meeting your insurance needs by providing you with relevant options?

Give Bob Johnson Insurance a Call

We would be glad to have the opportunity to earn your business.  Give us a call toll free at 800-624-3339 or click here to contact us.

Posted on

The Difference Between Types of Insurance Agents

Ben Johnson of Bob Johnson Insurance in TN

Those insurance commercials on TV can be so amusing, but when it really comes down to it, which kind of insurance agent do you want?  Let’s take a look.

There are three types of insurance agents:  independent, captive and direct through the internet.  Our post “Why should you choose an independent insurance agent over online insurance?” explains why getting insurance online may not be your best choice.

A “captive agent” works for just one insurance company.  The benefit is that they are very well-trained in their company’s products, and they usually will know fairly quickly if you qualify for a particular product. They also generally offer good customer service as well. They will be able to answer your insurance-related questions and help guide you through purchasing a policy. On the other hand, they are limited in options that they can provide to you, because they can offer products from only one insurance company.

Why an Independent Agent is the Best Choice

An independent agent stands out from the rest. Because they do not have an exclusive relationship with one company, they do not have the limitations of online insurance or a captive agent.  The result is you get more from an independent agent.

  • They can provide quick quotes across multiple insurance companies to help you find the best rate.
  • Based on their experience and knowledge, they can advise you about the differences between companies as well as the benefits of each insurance company so that you can choose the one that balances the coverage you want with the rate you can afford.
  • You get personalized service centered around your needs and wants.
  • If you need multiple policies (such as auto, home, and life), you are not limited to one company for all your insurance needs. Your independent insurance agent can provide you with information about your options so that you can make the best choice for which company or companies will provide your insurance.

We would like to help you!

We would love to answer any questions you may have or to provide a quote for you. For questions, please give us a call at 865-922-3111 or click here and fill out our contact form. One of our experienced agents will contact you as quickly as possible.  If you prefer, you can click any of the links under “Quotes and Information” (in the upper menu bar) to receive a free quote.

Posted on

The Benefits of an Independant Insurance Agent

Ben Johnson of Bob Johnson Insurance in TN

Did You Know?

Unlike captive agents, independent agents and brokers can offer products from many insurance companies. This helps them better serve your interests, as they can review multiple options to find a policy and rate that’s right for you. Keep reading to learn more.

Are All Insurance Agents The Same?

To get the best deal on insurance, many people consult an insurance agent or broker. But did you know that there are different kinds of insurance agents and brokers — and the one you choose can make a big difference in the type of service you get and the choices you’re offered?

The difference lies in whether you have a Captive Agent/Broker or an Independant Agent/Broker.

Captive agents and brokers.

Captive agents work with a specific insurance company, and as part of their business agreement with that company, they can offer only that company’s insurance products. They may also be required to sell other products from that company, such as annuities and investment plans.

Independent agents and brokers.

Independent agents and brokers can offer products from many insurance companies. This helps them better serve your interests, as they can review multiple options to find a policy and rate that’s right for you. Insurance rates vary from company to company. Independent agents can put together a customized insurance plan.

If you’re ready to contact an independent agent to talk about saving money on car insurance, here are a few things to consider:

Has your life situation changed recently?

Many factors determine auto insurance rates, not just vehicle year, make, model, body type and engine size. If you’ve recently moved, gotten married, had a birthday or experienced a similar life milestone, mention this to an independent agent or broker. You may be eligible to save money on your car insurance.

Is your car getting older?

You don’t always need the same level of physical damage coverage on older cars as on newer ones. If you drive an older car, an independent agent or broker can advise you on what level of cover-age makes the most sense. Raising your deductible could save you money each year, too.

Do you have another type of vehicle that also needs coverage?

If you have a motorcycle, boat, RV or other “toy,” you might save money by having it covered by the same company that insures your car. Talk to an independent agent or broker about it.

Would you like a plan custom tailored to your needs?

Another plus to working with an independent agent or broker is their ability to offer guidance for all your insurance needs—auto, home, life, business and more. They can customize a package of policies just for you.

Would you like to know more?

If you would like more information about Bob Johnson Insurance, please click here and use our contact form. We would be happy to answer any questions that you might have about our agency, insurance, or options available to you.