What is a defining feature of an independent agent?

An independent agent is characterized by their ability to transact business with multiple insurers, which allows them to offer a variety of insurance products and tailor solutions to meet the specific needs of their clients. By representing several insurance carriers, independent agents can compare policies, assess coverage options, and find competitive pricing for their clients. This flexibility is a cornerstone of their role, enabling them to act in the best interest of the client rather than being limited to a single company's offerings.

In contrast, agents who represent only one insurance company are typically considered captive agents and do not have the same breadth of options available to their clients. Furthermore, while independent agents are licensed by the government, licensing alone does not define their independent status; it is their multi-carrier representation that sets them apart. Similarly, while they may represent clients exclusively in terms of client advocacy, their ability to work with various insurers is the defining feature of their role in the insurance industry.