What is an Insurance Broker?
An insurance broker is somebody that works on the behalf of clients to find sources of insurance for them, their family or their employees. A broker discusses insurance needs with their client then work to find them the best rates and coverage. Insurance brokers will also help their clients file claims and settle them with the insurance company.
Washington insurance brokers can help you acquire any kind of insurance;
- Health insurance
- Auto insurance
- Home insurance
- Liability insurance
Insurance brokers in WA work off of commissions that are paid by insurance companies. This doesn’t mean a plan through an insurance broker will cost you more though. When you contact an agency yourself an insurance agent is the one to make the sale on the policy and receive the same commission. Read on to learn how agents and brokers differ.
Difference Between Washington Insurance Brokers and Agents
Insurance brokers and insurance agents in Washington share a lot of the same job responsibilities which explains why so many people get the two confused. To add to the confusion insurance brokers are sometimes called independent insurance agents.
However, if you're trying to get the best deal possible on insurance of any type then an insurance broker will provide you with better service than an insurance agent. An insurance agent is a representative of one specific insurance company which means they are really working for the company not you. In contrast, Washington insurance brokers don't have an alliance with any particular insurance agency and sells policies for many companies.
Because of this significant difference an insurance broker in WA will be able to negotiate on your behave a lot better than an insurance agent.
Benefits of Using an Insurance Broker in Washington
As stated previously the primary benefit of using an insurance broker in Washington is their negotiation experience. They are working for you to get the best deal possible, no matter who the insurance provider is. They know what can be negotiated and have made contacts in the insurance industry that will help you get a great policy.
Their experience dealing with insurance companies is also another invaluable advantage of using an insurance broker. They know what insurance providers are prepared to give on, when’s the optimum time to buy insurance and are well versed in the lingo of the insurance industry.
Though the web has made it easier to research insurance policies, it can still be very time consuming and tedious to learn all your options. Washington insurance brokers will do the job for you and explain everything at no cost, so why not enlist their help and safe yourself all the hassle.
Finding the Best Insurance Broker in Washington
Getting recommendations from friends and family is among the best ways to find a reliable insurance broker in Washington. Additionally, there are a number of resources online that can help you locate insurance brokers.
Regardless of how you find an insurance broker you’ll want to make sure they are licensed to work in Washington. There's also additional certifications and continuing education which insurance brokers should be a part of to best serve their clients.
It’s also preferable if they're members of the American Insurance Association. AIA insurance brokers have to follow ethical guidelines established by the organization if they want to be members in good standing.