How an Independent Insurance Agency Saves You Time and Money
If you’re shopping for insurance, whether you’re buying coverage for the first time or looking for a better deal on an existing policy, you have a few options. You could go it alone, searching online and calling 1-800 numbers. You could meet with several captive agents (representatives who can only sell policies from one company).
Or, you could work with an independent insurance agency, one that represents multiple insurance carriers and can shop around on your behalf. Independent agents give you access to more choices, often better rates, and personalized service tailored to your needs.
Working with a local, independent agency like C&S Insurance comes with many advantages. These agencies are often family-owned, deeply rooted in their communities, and more accessible and personable than large corporations. Beyond supporting your local economy, choosing an independent agent can save you both time and money. Here’s how.
How Independent Agents Save You Time
They shop for you
Getting quotes, comparing options, and figuring out how much coverage you need can be time-consuming. Independent agents streamline the process. All you need to do is share your needs and provide some basic information—they’ll handle the rest.
Researching and comparing quotes
Independent agents work with both large, national carriers and smaller, regional companies. That means they can quickly compare rates, discounts, and coverage options you may not find on your own. In fact, some of the smaller insurers you’ve never heard of may offer the best deal—and your agent will know which ones to recommend.
Agents also get notified if your premium jumps by 10% or more, which can trigger them to shop for a better rate automatically.
Ongoing support
An independent agent’s job doesn’t end once you buy a policy. Throughout the year, they can:
- Answer questions about your coverage
- Help you file claims
- Resolve issues with your insurer
And if you ever decide to switch providers, you can still stay with the same agent.
How Independent Agents Save You Money
They work for you—not the insurance companies
Independent agents don’t charge you for their services. They’re compensated by the insurance carriers through commissions on the policies they sell. This means you get their expertise, guidance, and ongoing support at no extra cost.
Finding deals and discounts
Because they work with multiple carriers, independent agents can compare rates and secure the most competitive prices. They also know about discounts you might not discover on your own, such as:
- Bundling policies (home + auto, for example)
- Installing home security devices
- Making safety upgrades
- Completing driver safety programs
By getting to know your unique needs, independent agents can also make sure you’re not paying for unnecessary coverage.
Independent Agents vs. Brokers: What’s the Difference?
While both work on behalf of the customer, there’s one key distinction:
- Independent agents represent an insurance agency and can write policies directly.
- Insurance brokers legally represent you, the policyholder, but cannot write policies.
- Working with an independent agent makes the process faster and more convenient.
What Independent Agents Can Sell
Independent agents can be licensed to sell a wide variety of policies, including property and casualty, life, and health insurance.
At C&S Insurance, we can help you with:
- Homeowners, condo, or renter’s insurance
- Personal umbrella insurance
- Auto insurance
- Business owner’s policies (BOP)
- Coastal property insurance
- Commercial auto insurance
- Commercial property insurance
- Workers’ compensation
- Professional liability insurance
- Industry-specific policies (for arborists, breweries, landscapers, contractors, roofers, manufacturers, waste haulers, cannabis businesses, electricians, landlords, plumbers, and more)
…and that’s just the beginning. Talk to a C&S agent today to explore your options or request a quote.
How to Find an Independent Insurance Agent
Looking for the right independent agent? You can:
- Search the IIABA directory
- Ask friends, family, or colleagues for referrals
- Check online reviews of local agencies
If you’d like to see how an independent agent can save you time and money, get to know the C&S Insurance team.