Insurance

El Paso's Top Insurance Providers

7 Steps to Picking Your Independent Insurance Agent in El Paso, TX:

• Know the Difference between Independent Agents and other Insurance Agents. An independent agent may be a small-business owner who represents multiple insurance companies. In contrast, agents who represent large, national insurance companies are employees and only sell products from that company. A direct insurance company sells directly to you without an agent, typically online. An independent agent has the opportunity to best match price and coverage for your needs and can quote other carriers if one company becomes uncompetitive.
• Ask for Referrals. Referrals from family, friends, and colleagues are a good place to start. Find out why they like their independent agent, their customer service and follow-through, and if their policy is reviewed annually.
• Decide If Location Is Important to You. It may be important for you to have an independent agent with offices in your community for convenience and to build a trust relationship. Many independent agents are deeply committed to their community and are actively involved as coaches, scout leaders, or civic leaders.
• Visit Their Websites. Websites can provide information about the history of the agency, staff bios, customer testimonials, insurance information, and access to price quotes online or via telephone. Websites can give you a feel for the personality of the agency, what they value, and the type of customer service they provide.
• Look for Credentials. A knowledgeable independent agent can provide the advice you need when deciding on coverage and limits. Look for agents with letters next to their name on their business card, representing professional designations such as Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC), Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), Associate in Risk Management (ARM). To maintain these credentials, independent agents must take continuing education classes.
• Interview the Independent Agents. Interview the independent agents you are considering. Personality is important since you will be working with them potentially for several years. You should feel respect for their knowledge and have a sense of their integrity.
• Knowledge and Trust Are Key. Determining knowledge and trust takes time, but you can start by asking the independent agents you are considering to explain their products and how they determine your coverage and limits. This will give you a feel for how they do business.