Insurance Agent
What Is an Insurance Agent?
An insurance agent is an individual or an organization that is authorized to act on behalf of another. An insurance agent typically solicits, negotiates, or instigates insurance contracts on behalf of an insurer.
In short, they’re your friendly expert, making sure you understand your options and feel confident about your coverage.
What Do Insurance Agents Do?
Insurance agents help small business owners find and buy the right insurance coverage. They explain terms, answer questions, and walk you through your options. They can also guide you through your application, renewal, and claims.
Insurance can be confusing (hello, jargon!) — but Insurance Canopy aims to simplify the process of protecting your business.
When you reach out to our customer support team, you’re connected to a licensed, non-commissioned agent who’s ready to help in either English or Spanish. We’ll guide you through every step and ensure your business, gig, or side hustle is safeguarded, so you can keep doing what you love.
Do I Need an Insurance Agent to Buy Business Insurance?
It depends! With Insurance Canopy, you can purchase many policies instantly online, providing quick access to your proof of insurance (Certificate of Insurance, or COI) and easy tools to add about additional insureds or adjust coverage.
For more complex needs, an agent can help tailor a policy that fits your unique business, so you get coverage that actually covers you.
What Is an Insurance Agent vs a Broker?
An insurance agent represents one or more insurance companies and sells their policies to customers. A broker, on the other hand, works for you, helping compare multiple insurance options to find the best coverage for your needs.
Insurance Agent vs. Broker: Quick Comparison
| Insurance Agent | Insurance Broker | |
|---|---|---|
|
Who they represent |
One or more insurance companies |
The customer or business owner |
|
What they do |
Sell policies offered by the companies they represent |
Shop and compare policies from multiple insurers |
|
Compensation |
Earns commission from the insurance company |
Earns commission built into the premium cost |
|
Access to policies |
Limited to partnered carriers |
Broader access across the market |
|
Customer relationship |
Acts as a company representative |
Acts as your independent advisor |
|
Best for |
Buyers who already know which insurer they want |
Buyers who want to compare coverage options |
Who they represent
Insurance Agent: One or more insurance companies
Insurance Broker: The customer or business owner
What they do
Insurance Agent: Sell policies offered by the companies they represent
Insurance Broker: Shop and compare policies from multiple insurers
Compensation
Insurance Agent: Earns commission from the insurance company
Insurance Broker: Earns commission built into the premium cost
Access to policies
Insurance Agent: Limited to partnered carriers
Insurance Broker: Broader access across the market
Customer relationship
Insurance Agent: Acts as a company representative
Insurance Broker: Acts as your independent advisor
Best for
Insurance Agent: Buyers who already know which insurer they want
Insurance Broker:Â Buyers who want to compare coverage options
Use an insurance agent when you already know which insurer you prefer or want hands-on help managing your policy.
Use an insurance broker when you’d like to explore and compare several different coverage options.
Can I Get Help From an Agent at Insurance Canopy?
Absolutely! Our licensed agents (who don’t earn commission) are ready to help in English or Spanish. Whether you’re applying for coverage, filing a claim, or trying to understand what your policy covers, we’ll guide you with clarity and care. Feel confident your business is truly protected.
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