What is the best way to buy insurance? Online? Directly through a broker? Directly from the insurance company? Millions of policies are purchased in the US every year utilizing all of these delivery systems. In fact, sometimes, consumers utilize all three methods. We'll let you decide which method is best for your specific situation.
Buy Insurance Online
When you purchase a policy online, typically there is less interaction compared to the buying process directly with the insurer or broker. However, less interaction does not mean you are not getting a "good deal." You can view your options at your own pace, compare the plans that you think best fit your needs, and buy when you're ready...whether that's immediately or in a year.
With the online method, you can quickly compare 2 or 20 policies, download brochures and applications at your own pace, and have access to dozens of different plan options. And, you can also generate hundreds (maybe thousands?) of different rate possibilities since you can change deductibles and other policy features to your liking.
You can buy your policy without talking to a live person, although usually, someone is available. Of course, the experience and knowledge level of that person may be questionable. Ultimately, you want to work with someone with at least 20 years of experience. Sometimes you don't.
Buy Insurance Directly Through A Broker
Buying a policy from a broker can be done in a number of ways. Brokers often have websites although many times, you can not apply for coverage through their website. Most often, you will speak to a broker face-to-face or via phone and/or email. You can choose the method you prefer. If you are working with an experienced broker (20 years in the business is always a plus), you'll receive valuable and unbiased information that will be very helpful. And brokers should not and very rarely charge a fee.
A broker can usually assist you with the application process, even if you are applying online. While he/she cannot answer any questions for you, a broker (or agent) can help interpret what information is needed and what is the best way to provide that information. If medical reports, driving record or other required documents are needed, the agent/broker has probably gone through the process many times already and can help you shorten the time frame it takes to gather that information.
Buy Insurance Directly From The Insurance Company
Buying "direct" from the insurer is still popular. However, more consumers are utilizing brokers and websites because they realize that rates are almost always identical, regardless of where the coverage is purchased. However, a few auto insurance carriers may charge a lower rate if you buy directly through them.
A common complaint among consumers is you tend to rarely build any type of personal relationships with the company you buy direct from. That is, typically, when you contact the carrier, you are likely to talk to someone different each time. Turnover among customer service representatives can be high and you are likely to wait longer for an answer to your question or a solution to your problem.
And of course...when you deal directly with an insurance company, you are buying the policies from that company only...not the rest of the marketplace. Therefore, you aren't really "comparing," and any suggestions or recommendations you receive will tend to be a bit biased. And that should be expected.
Perhaps the most important factor when buying insurance is to find a reputable experienced resource that you can trust. This person should be able to clearly understand your needs and make specific recommendations that are the best options for you and your family.
Ed Harris specializes in Pennsylvania Health Insurance for residents of Pennsylvania. He also provides affordable Individual Ohio Health Insurance rates to Ohio residents.
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