When the time comes to shop around for a new insurance agent, you don’t want to settle for just anyone because choosing the proper insurance coverage for your needs is one of the most important financial decisions you will ever make. You want to make sure you have a partner on your side to guide you through the often complicated landscape of insurance policies and claims (when, not if, you have to make one).

Since it’s such a big choice, Insurance Center Associates—located in both San Pedro and Torrance, CA—wants to give you eight important insurance agent questions you should ask before you commit.  

1. Do You Have a License?

Since you will be relying on an insurance agent to recommend appropriate insurance policies for you, you will want to make sure they have the license required to do so in your state.  

2. Are You a Member of a Local, State, or National Trade Organization?

Membership in an organization suggests professionalism in and commitment to the insurance industry and its customers.

3. How Long Have You been an Insurance Agent?

While it’s not required to have a certain number of years of experience under the agent’s belt, you may be better off with a more seasoned agent rather than someone beginning their career.

4. Are You an Independent Agent?

An independent agent represents several insurance companies and can help you find the right combination of coverage and value.

5. How Many Companies Do You Represent?

On average, an independent agent represents eight different companies. Too few and you won’t have enough options. Too many and the agent may not know the products and companies well enough.

6. What is Your Reach?

Are they a local, statewide, or nationwide agent? Having a local agent in your community will give you specialized knowledge of the insurance and risk landscape of the area you live.

7. Are You a Full-Service Agent?

It can be convenient to have a full-service agent to handle every type of insurance need, including home, auto, life, boat, etc.

8. Will You Handle My Account?

If the agent has a backup person or team who will also be working with your account, ask to meet them so that you know everyone handling your account.

Have More Insurance Agent Questions?

If you have more questions to ask about choosing a good insurance agent, it will be our pleasure to answer them for you.

Contact an expert at Insurance Center Associates today!