With so many variables, it can be difficult to find the perfect health insurance broker or agent for you. To make things easier, you might choose to hire someone to do the dirty work for you. They are either a health insurance broker or an insurance agent.
The question is, who do you hire?
Learning the Difference: Health Insurance Agent vs. Insurance Broker
While the role they play in your benefits search is virtually the same, insurance agents and insurance brokers have very different jobs.
The Insurance Agent
The biggest difference between the two is who they represent. Insurance agents represent one or more insurance companies. Thus, health insurance agents focus on selling policies related to the companies they work for.
Captive Agents represent only one insurer.
Independent Agents represent several insurers at one time.
Both agents and brokers must consider their customer service skills. It goes without saying that an insurance agent’s priority more often lies with their employer and less with their client.
If this isn’t for you, read more to find out about how a health insurance broker will be right for you.
A Health Insurance Broker:
An insurance broker, on the other hand, represents the consumer in their search for the best benefit plans. They are not affiliated with any company. They can review plans from different providers. This allows a health insurance broker to research multiple healthcare plans for your company’s unique needs.
They will consult with their client, analyze risks and liabilities, and match them with the best policy to fit their client’s needs and budgets. Brokers even go so far as to examine the terms and conditions of each option, so you don’t have to.
While brokers can’t sell the perfect policy to their clients, they can solicit price quotes from different insurers. When a client is ready to purchase, they can obtain a binder from an insurance agent or company.
Who needs an Insurance Broker for Business Insurance?
You might need an Insurance Broker if:
• Need insurance for a business
• Want a personal relationship with someone who is invested in you.
• Want to fully understand your policy but have little knowledge about the intricacies of insurance.
• Want to shop around but lack the time or energy.
Why do I need AUI to help me with my employee benefits?
Health Insurance is not one-size-fits-all. AUI has been licensed in Akron since 1974 and continues to serve Ohio with a team of brokers dedicated to finding the right insurance for you.
Health and Small Business Insurance:
We work on your behalf and can help you navigate a wide range of insurance carriers – even some exclusive to AUI.
AUI is committed to customizing a benefits package that fits your budget, meets your needs, and takes care of your employees.
Our services do not stop after health insurance shopping is over. Our team is dedicated to curating a custom benefits package that is just as attractive to your employees as it is to you.
Request a Quote today to get started.