Questions to ask an insurance agent

You don’t need to ask every question on this list. Pick the ones that fit your situation, write down the answers, and use them to compare agents side by side. An agent who is glad to answer is usually a good sign; one who is evasive about licensing, pay or what a policy excludes is telling you something, too.

License and experience

1. Are you licensed in my state, and for this kind of insurance?
   Licenses are issued by state and by line of authority. You can confirm the answer yourself with the state regulator.
2. How long have you been licensed, and how much of your work is like mine?
   Experience with your specific situation — a teen driver, a rental property, a small business — matters more than years alone.
3. Do you hold any professional designations?
   Designations aren’t required to sell insurance, but they show extra training in a specialty. Ask what the letters mean.
4. Have you ever had a license suspended or been disciplined?
   Many state lookup tools show regulatory actions. A straight answer here is a good sign.

Companies and options

5. Which insurance companies do you represent for this coverage?
   This tells you whether you’re talking to a captive or independent agent, and how much comparison they can do.
6. Why are you recommending this company over the others?
   Listen for reasons about coverage, service and financial strength — not only price.
7. If my price goes up at renewal, what can you do?
   Independent agents can often re-shop; captive agents can look for options within their company.

Coverage

8. What does this policy not cover?
   Exclusions matter as much as coverage. Ask about common surprises like flood, earthquake, sewer backup or business use of a personal vehicle.
9. Are these limits enough for me?
   A good agent explains why they suggest a given liability limit or dwelling amount, and when an umbrella policy makes sense.
10. Will a loss be paid at replacement cost or actual cash value?
    Replacement cost pays to replace an item; actual cash value subtracts depreciation. The difference can be large.
11. Which deductibles apply, and when?
    Some property policies use separate percentage deductibles for wind, hail or named storms.
12. What discounts am I eligible for that aren’t applied yet?
    Bundling, safety features, paying in full and good-driver programs vary by company and state.

Cost and compensation

13. How are you paid on this policy?
    Most agents earn commission from the insurer. Some also receive bonuses or charge fees where allowed. Ask plainly.
14. Are there any fees in addition to the premium?
    Policy, installment or broker fees should be disclosed before you buy.
15. How and to whom do I pay?
    Payment should go to the insurer or the agency — never to a personal account, by gift card or in cash without a receipt.

Service and claims

16. Who do I contact for changes, and how quickly will I hear back?
    You may work with the agent, an account manager or a service center. Know who before you need them.
17. What happens when I file a claim?
    With many policies, claims go to the insurer directly. Find out whether the agent helps, advocates or simply forwards it.
18. Will you review my coverage each year?
    Life changes — a new home, a new driver, a growing business — can leave gaps if no one looks.
19. Can I get all of this in writing?
    Quotes, coverage summaries and any promises about discounts or terms should be in writing before you pay.

Before you share personal details, confirm the agent’s license with your state regulator. Find your state’s license lookup.

This guide is general information, not insurance or legal advice. Licensing rules, disclosure requirements and agent compensation practices vary by state. For anything specific to your situation, check with your state insurance regulator or a licensed professional.