How to Choose an Agent?

How to get the best value for your insurance dollar
Buying insurance can be confusing. Price is important, but so is getting the right coverage for your needs. You want and need top value in your coverage - whether it's for your home, your car, your family or your business.

What's the secret?
Your Professional Insurance Agent, also called an independent agent, gives you more choices. Professional Insurance Agents are not limited to insurance from only one company. They can shop from several. By shopping among various companies, your professional agent can find the best combination of coverage, price and service, and the best value for your insurance dollar.

The value of value
Sure, the price of insurance is important, but never shop on the basis of price alone. Real value means more. You want insurance that provides the right kind of protection for your needs. You want an insurance company that's loyal and pays valid claims promptly. You also want an agent who provides courteous service, someone who goes to bat for you when you need help or advice.

About your Professional Insurance Agent
When you see PIA on an agent's business card, stationery or advertisements, you know he or she is a Professional Insurance Agent. Those three letters represent more than affiliation with a national organization of insurance experts. It means the agent is your Personal Insurance Adviser - - someone you can count on and trust.

Know Your Insurance Rights and Responsibilities
The National Association of Professional Insurance Agents and the Consumer Insurance Interest Group developed these principles to help you understand what to expect when buying insurance and what's expected of you:

You have the right to: Protection, Be heard, Be informed, Redress, Choose, Service.

You have the responsibility to: Be informed, Help control losses, Keep updated and accurate records, Report accurate information, Comply with policy provisions, Report fraudulent practices.

Information from National Association of Professional Insurance Agents