May 14, 2024

Should I Buy Insurance Online or Use an Insurance Agent?

Online Insurance

What are the Pros and Cons If I Buy Insurance Online Vs Insurance Agent

Are you wondering if it’s better to buy insurance online direct from a company or through an agent?

Which is the best option for your needs? 

It depends on several factors, which we will discuss below.

We'll outline the pros and cons of each point of purchase to help you make an educated decision about your needs for insurance protection.

Buying an insurance policy can be a daunting task. With so many choices in each type of coverage, find the process arduous and confusing.

Buying through the company website is just one way to buy coverage. What are the advantages or disadvantages of using your agent versus buying online?

Do I Need A Broker Or Agent To Purchase Any Policies?

These questions do not have easy answers; each person should review their situation carefully before making this important decision.

For some people, it makes sense to use an insurance agent or broker.

Because agents and brokers are familiar with different types of insurance, they may be able to save you money on the price of


Like anyone shopping for car insurance, finding the best deal is probably your top priority.

Thanks to the internet, it's easier than ever to compare and contrast auto insurance policies from various providers.

You can even buy coverage directly online, lining up what you need without leaving home or even picking up the phone.

Is It Cheaper To Buy Insurance Online

You may think that it's less expensive to buy insurance directly online, but if you're not careful, you could end up paying more.

Insurance has always been one of the most popular subjects for Google searches.

Whether you are considering buying health, auto, or life insurance there is a lot to learn and even more options to choose from.

A large number of different types of insurance policies combined with hundreds of different providers can make this purchase feel almost overwhelming.

In many cases, it makes sense to turn to an agent or broker when purchasing these types of products for the simple reason that they know how all these types work together and are also familiar with your state’s regulations on insurance premiums and coverage levels.

Like anyone shopping for car insurance, finding the best deal is probably your top priority.

Thanks to the internet, it's easier than ever to compare and contrast auto insurance policies from various providers. You can even buy coverage directly online, lining up what you need without leaving home or even picking up the phone.

However, as complicated as car insurance is, buying it directly online isn't necessarily the best option.

Unless you're an insurance agent yourself, it's easy to end up with coverage that misses the mark. Therefore, it can pay to work with an independent insurance agent too.

However, as complicated as car insurance is, buying it directly online isn't necessarily the best option.

Unless you're an insurance agent yourself, it's easy to end up with coverage that misses the mark.

Therefore, it can pay to work with an independent insurance agent too.

So, What's the Best Way to Go?

Buying Insurance Online – Quick, Easy but Confusing

Numerous websites make it easy to compare and contrast car insurance policies from multiple carriers.

Many times, you can proceed with buying coverage directly online without ever having to deal with an actual person.

It's fast and easy but proceed with caution: Unless you understand auto insurance and its many options and configurations, you can easily end up with seemingly affordable coverage that leaves you too exposed to risk.

Buying Insurance Through an Agent or Broker – More Informative but Potentially Limiting


Connecting with an insurance agent or broker is another way to secure auto insurance. However, if you want to consider as many options as possible, it's essential to work with the right professional.


Most insurance agents are captive, or direct, agents. They strictly work for one insurance carrier and therefore can only advise you regarding that company's offerings.

 
On the other hand, independent insurance brokers work with a variety of insurance companies, offering products from several different carriers.

They have an in-depth understanding of auto insurance products from many providers, so they can help you identify the best options on the market today.

Benefits of Buying Auto Insurance from a Local Insurance Broker


Car insurance is confusing. New products enter the market all the time, and coverage needs to constantly change and evolve. Working with an independent insurance agent or local broker can be a great way to get the best deal on coverage that meets your needs.


Some advantages of working with an independent insurance broker or agent include:

  • Variety – Unlike a captive agent, who only offers products from a single carrier, an independent insurance agent offers products from several. Therefore, you can take your pick from a larger pool of options, making it easier to secure effective and affordable coverage.
  • Knowledge – Insurance brokers possess in-depth knowledge about car insurance options from several different companies. When you explain your driving habits and insurance needs, a skilled broker can direct you toward options that suit your requirements on a very specific level.
  • Impartiality – By working with an independent broker instead of a captive agent, you can rest assured that the broker is working in your best interests. They aren't incentivized to promote certain companies or policies. Under the law, they have a fiduciary duty to be impartial with their recommendations and to only base them on what you need.
  • It Doesn't Cost Extra – Contrary to popular belief, independent insurance brokers don't charge customers for their services. Rather, they receive commissions on the policies that they sell from insurance providers. The nice thing for someone who is shopping for auto insurance is that they can gain an independent broker's insider knowledge without paying a dime extra. Some argue that commission-based agents try to push buyers into more expensive policies, but you can avoid this problem by shopping around.
  • Claim Assistance – When you purchase auto insurance from a local insurance broker, you'll always know where to turn for help when you need it. The agent who sells you your policy will remain available to you as long as you keep it. If you need to file a claim, which tends to be a confusing and overwhelming time for most, your agent will guide you through the process, ensuring that everything is handled correctly and that you get the most out of your insurance benefits.
  • Time Savings – Sure, buying online insurance directly is convenient and easy. However, unless you possess a lot of knowledge about auto insurance policies from various providers, you'll spend tons of time wading through the available options. By working with an independent broker, you still enjoy the benefits of shopping around across a variety of insurance providers and policies. However, your agent can narrow things down for you based on your requirements, making it faster to pinpoint auto insurance that goes the distance for you.
  • Life Insurance - One of the most common services that insurance agents and brokers provide is help with finding a cheaper price for the same insurance coverage

They can also be used to find more customized policies, especially if you have any medical conditions or other factors which would affect your eligibility. Agents and brokers can also give you advice on what type of coverage is best suited for your situation.

Buying Online Insurance – Pros and Cons


The idea of skipping the middleman, going online, and buying the car insurance you need can be tempting, indeed.

There are plenty of upsides to buying insurance online, and sheer convenience tops the list.

It's nice to input a few pieces of information, press a button, and be presented with various options.  With everything laid out on the screen for you, it can be easier to wade through different policies.

When you buy directly online, you can do it anytime – even outside of regular business hours. Many times, you can print your new insurance documents right away.

As great as that all sounds, buying insurance online can be risky.

It's easy to be distracted by seemingly affordable prices and to overlook potential coverage issues.

If you don't have an in-depth understanding of auto insurance, how it works, laws in your state regarding coverage, various coverage options, and other factors, comparing and contrasting online insurance policies is pretty much impossible.

When buying insurance directly online, it's easy to miss out on discounts and other things that can save you money.

It's also easy to end up with coverage that doesn't fully protect you. Sure, you'll save on monthly premiums, but you could wind up in hot water if something goes awry and you don't have enough coverage.

Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds


Instead of having to choose between buying insurance directly online or through an independent broker, why not enjoy the best of both worlds?

By using InsuranceBrokersGroup.com, you can compare and contrast insurance policies through online quotes and still enjoy the benefits of having your own dedicated agent.

You can kick-start your search for car insurance by requesting quotes through our convenient insurance portal

Just like with buying insurance online, you'll be able to compare and contrast several policies from multiple carriers right on your screen.

In a flash, you can pinpoint the most affordable options and zero in on policies that appear to suit your requirements.

From there, your dedicated insurance broker can help you dig deeper, explaining the pros and cons of the policies that you are considering.

Your agent will answer any questions that you have, giving you unparalleled peace of mind. Going forward, they will remain available to assist you with billing inquiries or to help you make changes to your existing coverage.

Get the Best Car Insurance Fast with InsuranceBrokersGroup.com


If you're ready to find affordable auto insurance that fully protects you, don't buy directly online or work with a local insurance broker. Instead, get the best of both worlds with InsuranceBrokersGroup.com.

Think of it as your one-stop-shop for exploring a variety of insurance options and quotes where you can still enjoy the benefits of having a dedicated insurance broker at your side.

As your insurance needs evolve, your agent will be right there with you, so get started and get quotes today.

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John Espenschied is a long-time veteran of the insurance industry. He's worked with thousands of clients over the years, helping to protect their personal and business needs. John's goal is to provide the best advice possible to assist customers in saving money while protecting their property and securing their financial future.
He truly enjoys helping others and takes great satisfaction in providing top-notch customer service. When he's not working, John has fun spending time with his family, golfing, bike riding, and blogging on insurance topics.