Why an Independent Insurance Agent is Important

Finding the right insurance can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to sort through options on your own. It’s natural to start online, but there’s another helpful resource worth turning to: an independent agent.
July 13, 2026 | General
Happy young family sitting on couch and talking with family counselor. Smiling parents with adopted children discussing with counselor. Multiethnic family meeting a financial agent.
By: Lisa D.
Lisa D. has almost 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, including over 15 years at Acuity. Before starting at Acuity, she obtained her P&C license and sold personal insurance. She keeps a pulse on industry trends while continuing to specialize in developing and updating personal auto insurance products. On top of that, Lisa has her Association in General Insurance (AINS) and Associate in Personal Insurance (API) designations. Outside of work, Lisa enjoys cooking, photography, and spending time with her family. The last two go hand in hand, as she takes pictures of her kids every day.

Author of Auto Focus

In the age of technology and instant information access, more consumers are moving to the internet for insurance information instead of utilizing an independent agent. Unfortunately, those who bypass an agent don't realize they are missing out on valuable expertise and advice. Working with an expert independent agent can save customers time and stress. Here are four important reasons to consider working with an independent insurance agent:  

 

  1. Independent agents work for themselves, not an insurance company. Independent agents are, in a way, self-employed. They don’t work for the insurance companies whose insurance they are offering you. Instead, they work to find you the best fit within the multiple companies they offer. So, instead of putting the insurance company first, they put your interest first, and make sure you get the coverage you need at a fair price. They are truly a source of unbiased advice as you research the best insurance option for you.
     

  2. They have access to multiple insurance carriers. An independent agent is basically a one-stop shop for your insurance needs. They represent multiple insurance companies, each offering a wide variety of coverage options and prices. Their expertise can save you time, money, and stress—when your agent knows what kind of coverage you're seeking, they can peruse the options to see what best matches your budget and needs as well as provides the best value. This accessibility allows you to get quotes from multiple companies without having to personally fill out multiple forms, taking the hard part off your plate.
     

  3. You can rely on their expertise. Insurance can be a complicated subject. An independent agent is there to guide you through the complex world of insurance. You can rely on your agent to answer your questions, point you in the right direction, keep your interest in mind, and explain that massive insurance policy. If there is something you want to know about insurance, working with an independent agent can help you.
     

  4. An agent can help with your claims. Your independent agent is truly your advocate with your insurance company. In the unfortunate event you have a claim, he or she is there to help you. Your agent can contact the insurance company for you and keep you up to date on the process. This allows you to maintain a sense of normalcy while your agent handles your claim.

 

Most critically, don’t look at an independent agent as a hindrance to getting your insurance online or those convenient digital features. Acuity offers the ability to get a quote online and then pairs you with an independent agent to help with any questions you might have. Also, we have been doing business for 100 years and counting and remain steadfastly committed to independent agents. That kind of dedication means you can rest easy and let Acuity and your independent agent focus on insurance while you stay focused on what matters most to you.

By: Lisa D.
Lisa D. has almost 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, including over 15 years at Acuity. Before starting at Acuity, she obtained her P&C license and sold personal insurance. She keeps a pulse on industry trends while continuing to specialize in developing and updating personal auto insurance products. On top of that, Lisa has her Association in General Insurance (AINS) and Associate in Personal Insurance (API) designations. Outside of work, Lisa enjoys cooking, photography, and spending time with her family. The last two go hand in hand, as she takes pictures of her kids every day.

Author of Auto Focus