Independent Agent vs. Captive Agent – What’s the Difference?

Captive insurance agents are contracted to work exclusively with a single carrier or umbrella group. Captive agents find potential clients for a carrier or group of carriers only.

An independent agent on the other hand, is not solely contracted to just one insurance company. They are able to contract with as many insurance carriers as they need to suit their clients’ needs.

The Advantages of Being Independent

1.  Represent Multiple Carriers

Representing multiple carriers is crucial for independent insurance agents who specialize in Medicare options. Selling insurance policies to seniors based on their health needs is the polar opposite of a ‘one-size-fits-all’ situation, which captive agents face. Offering a diverse range of coverage options from multiple carriers not only benefits clients, but also empowers agents.

As an independent agent, you have the flexibility to build a portfolio of insurance options from multiple carriers, allowing you to tailor coverage to each client’s unique needs. Here are some advantages to consider:

• Offering a diverse range of options enables you to serve a wider variety of clients.
• You can choose from different types of products, such as Medicare Supplements, Medicare Advantage, Part D, ancillary products, and more.
• Providing clients with more choices ensures they receive the best possible plan for their situation, which leads to greater satisfaction and more referrals.

2.  Support When you Want It

Independent agents have the advantage of being supported by marketing organizations (FMOs, IMOs, NMOs) that offer training and marketing resources to help them enhance their skills, particularly when it comes to acquiring clients. Marketing organizations routinely help new independent agents connect with insurance carriers to build their offerings portfolio, a stumbling block some new independent agents run into.

At AGA, we provide independent agents with a range of resources to help them build and improve their own business, including:

• Financial support to invest in business growth
• Administrative support to streamline operations and free up time
• A 50% Co-Op marketing program, that covers half of your marketing budget, allowing you to reach more potential clients and expand your customer base.

3.  Be your own Boss

Heading down the independent route provides the freedom to work on your own terms, making it a great choice for those seeking flexibility in their career. As an independent agent, you can enjoy the following benefits:

• Flexible hours: You can choose your own hours and have the freedom to take time off when you need it. Don’t feel like working on a Friday? That’s your choice.
• Work-life balance: You have the power to set your own schedule and plan your work around your personal life. Schedule meetings in the evenings, weekends, or when the kids are in school.
• No contractual obligations or sales quotas: As an independent agent, you’re not tied down to monthly or annual quotas imposed by a single insurance company. You have the freedom to set your own goals and work towards them at your own pace.

 

4.  Potential for Higher Earnings

Representing different insurance companies as an independent insurance agent can lead to increased earnings potential. With more options available, clients have a greater chance of finding the best plan for their needs, which in turn leads to satisfied clients who are more likely to provide referrals. Additionally, independent agents typically earn a higher percentage commission than captive agents, further increasing their earning potential.

Discover your earning potential as an Independent Insurance Agent in 2023.

Becoming an independent agent offers numerous advantages over a captive agent, including the ability to represent multiple carriers, support when needed, being your own boss, and the potential for higher commission rates and earning potential. At AGA, we can guide you every step of the way and help you succeed as an independent insurance agent.