Most people have their first contact with an insurance company through an insurance agent or broker.
These professionals sell insurance policies to individuals and businesses to provide protection against loss. Insurance agents and brokers help individuals, families, and businesses select the policy that provides the best insurance protection for their lives and health, as well as for their automobiles, jewelry, personal valuables, furniture, household items, businesses, and other properties. Agents and brokers prepare reports, maintain records, and, in the event of a loss, help policyholders settle insurance claims. Specialists in group policies may help an employer provide employees the opportunity to buy insurance through payroll deductions. Insurance brokers do not sell for a particular company, but place insurance policies for their clients with the company that offers the best rate and coverage.