Usually not. Independent insurance agents are paid a commission by the insurance company, so you pay your premium and no separate fee for the agent’s help. What you get is one person who can compare several companies for you.
How do insurance agents get paid?
When you buy a policy through an agent, the insurance company pays the agent a commission from the premium. The premium is the price the company charges for the policy. In most cases, that price is the same whether you buy through an agent or not.
What is the difference between an independent agent and a captive agent?
- Captive agent: sells policies from one insurance company.
- Independent agent: represents several insurance companies and compares them for you.
A captive agent can only show you one company’s price and coverage. An independent agent can show you several side by side.
When does an independent agent help most?
- Your rate went up at renewal. An agent can check whether another company prices you better.
- You have more than one policy. Home, auto, and an umbrella policy can often be placed together.
- Something is unusual. A teen driver, a past claim, a rental property, or a small business can be priced very differently from one company to the next.
What should I ask before I switch agents?
- Which companies can you quote for me?
- Are you comparing the same coverage I have now?
- What does this policy not cover?
- Who do I call when I have a claim?
How Riverfront Insurance Partners works
Riverfront Insurance Partners is a local independent insurance agency at 525 W 5th St in Covington. We compare options from the carriers we represent for auto, home, life, business, and workers’ compensation insurance. You get one call, several options, and a straight answer on what each one covers.
Our clients rate us 4.9 stars on Google. The reviews say the same thing over and over: fast answers and clear explanations.
Ready to compare? Call (859) 512-8325 or request a quote. We are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
FAQ
Is an independent agent the same as a broker?
In everyday use the terms often overlap. Both help you compare and buy insurance.
Will switching agents change my policy?
Not by itself. Ask your new agent how a move works with your current company.
Do I need an agent to buy insurance?
No. An agent saves you the time of calling each company and helps you avoid gaps.