How To Choose An Insurance Broker Or Agent

How do I choose an insurance broker or agent?

One of the most important things about shopping for an insurance broker or agent is how long have they been in business. If they've been in business two or three years, their expertise probably won't be as good as someone who's been in business 15 or 20 years. You also want to know if they have any professional designations. For example, in the life insurance business there's a CLU, which stands for chartered life underwriter, or CHFC, chartered financial consultant. There are certain designations that you should look for when you're shopping for an insurance broker. The best way to choose an insurance broker or an agent is through referral. If you have a really good friend or professional person that's in your life, ask that person, "What person should I go to for insurance - life insurance, disability insurance or homeowner's insurance?" That person might have a 10 or 15 year relationship with the insurance agent or broker and they can say, "When I had a problem with my flood in the house, that agent came to my aid right away." That's the kind of insurance broker you want to deal with.