Step 3: Your Agent's Knowledge Is Your Pocketbook's Best Friend
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An agent can help you save by finding the most affordable policies on the market.
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A good agent does more than just sell you a policy. Good agents fulfill two important roles:
- Insurance Advisor—an experienced agent is ready to consult with you regarding your insurance needs and how best to cover them.
- Purchasing Expert—an experienced agent is equipped to find you the most affordable deal on the coverage you want.
Agents as insurance advisors
The following questions often come up when purchasing life insurance:
- How much coverage do I need?
- How far into the future do I need to provide for my loved ones?
- How will my family's financial needs change over time, and how can I plan for them now?
A good agent will help you answer these questions and plan appropriately.
Agents as purchasing experts
Different insurers focus on selling policies to different types of applicants. For example, a given insurer may offer the best rates for people aged 30–35; another may offer the best rates for breast cancer survivors, and another may offer the best rates for diabetics.
Finding the insurer who can offer you the best price requires more than simply comparing rates online. It requires an in-depth knowledge of many carriers’ pricing criteria. A good agent will have access to this information and find you the best prices for your individual situation.
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An agent can help you save by finding the most affordable policies on the market.
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How can you tell if your agent is good?
A good agent should do the following:
- Discuss who you are protecting and why
- Discuss amount and type of coverage
- Discuss your current health and medical history
- Discuss your family health history
- Discuss your driving record (yes, this can affect rates)
- Represent at least 10 carriers
- Give reasons why certain carriers will give you better or worse rates
An agent that does all of the above should be able to find you good rates. The more carriers an agent represents, the better your chances for getting the best rates for your individual situation!
Back to Step 2: What Are the 4 Parties in Life Insurance?
Continue to Step 4: Issues to Discuss with Your Agent & Why
