Expert Q&A

Working with a real person, is so… well…personal, isn’t it? Using the internet is so much easier. We don’t have to talk directly with someone about touchy subjects. Just read and type, read and type. Submit. Great quote! Apply….Then the real policy price comes via email, and we’re shocked and appalled. Why not actually talk to someone first? It’s really not that hard, and most agents are quite tactful when it comes to touchy subject matter. We’re also very good at giving realistic quotes. We do it all day long. We also love shopping around for you, leaving you free to watch Youtube or Facebook your friends. That’s funner than shopping for insurance by yourself, isn’t it?

An insurance agent can better explain your coverages and discuss any gaps in coverage. Also, a local agent is there for you when you need your insurance. Ask yourself, when you have a claim do you want to handle it online or with an agent?

The internet is a great tool for shopping, but shopping for
an intangible such as insurance requires an education that only a professional
can provide. Most people who shop on-line are looking for low premiums, but there
is so much more that goes into an insurance policy than just low premiums. You
need to know and understand what you are purchasing. Working with a professional
to customize your insurance coverage is far more productive than just shopping
on-line.

Getting quotes on line may not be the true rate you are going to get. Most companies have more than 5 or 6 preferred non- smoker rates, without speaking to a rep personally and getting all the facts, it’s difficult to purchase a policy you think you are going to get.

I agree with the other professionals, in addition in order to obtain a quote for some sort of insurance it must be handled by a licensed agent in the state. In my opinion an indiviual can skip the internet and search for a licensed independant representative.

An agent or advisor can help the customer choose the company which best suits their needs based on many factors other than just the lowest price. For example, in my practice I have found that most people do not fully understand the underwriting classes and procedures of the life insurance carrier(s) in which they have chosen to apply for coverage or the rate classification for which they would qualify. Just comparing a list of quotes from an online source does not truly give the customer an accurate depiction of how much coverage they qualify for or the cost of said coverage.

Funny thing is – you pay about the same price for the same coverage whether you do it online or not. The problem is – you probably don’t know the right questions to ask. Online is just convenient and many people like that. To the what’s best for you, stick with the in-person relationship. If the agent leaves the business, the company will still be there.

The costs of insurance are the same if you buy online or through an agent. With an agent you get their experience, knowledge and product explanations for the same price.Also, the online companies offer mostly term insurance. There are many other types of plans to choose from. Wouildn’t you like a full compliment of plans to choose from?

I am diabetic and I use the internet for all sorts of information to help me control my diabetes. It is a useful tool but when it comes to applying the actions necessary to receive proper care, I still see my doctor. Life insurance quotes on the internet are similar. I would suggest using them as a guide and tool to understand cost and benefits. When it comes time to take action use the information with a professional insurance agent who can implement a plan that meets your individual needs.

Professionally trained agents can assist in avoiding pitfalls that ownership or beneficary designations can create for your estate, probate. In addition, they can assist in determine an adequate amount to meet your needs as determined by your distributions desires. Working with Trust officials, additional taxes and privacy concerns can be avoided.

When you use an insurance agent vs just using an online quote you can have that agent actually work for you and shop to get the best rates based on your personal situation. Many times the quotes that you receive can be misleading if the right questions are not asked (or answered) when it comes to health history, medications, or even how much insurance you should be applying for.

Who would your spouse turn to for help if, God forbid, your family ever needs the insurance money? Can you imagine being in an emotional crises (death of a loved one) and have to dial a 1-800 number, press 1 for “English”, and then wait on hold to speak to someone? And then have to deal with the paperwork, faxing documents, and mailing things. Who would deliver the check? The postal service?

What I have found, is that an online quote generates more questions and more discussions than just a dollar amount. A qualified insurance professional’s number one job is to make sure you understand and agree to the coverages you’re applying for.

Obtaining quotes online is a great starting point, however, whether you purchase in person, over the telephone, by mail or the internet, most people need help in conducting a detailed financial assessment of just how much insurance they need and for how long a duration. That’s why it’s wise to turn to a qualified insurance professional. Before agreeing to work with an agent or service, ask them about their education, training and professional designations.