re the rates from agents and insurance companies the same or different? 
The rate that is charged for a certain life insurance policy , from a certain company , at a certain health rating , will be the SAME even if sold by another AGENT . Rates among life insurance COMPANIES , however , are DIFFERENT . That is where shopping can help , because different companies have better rates for different age groups , health conditions , and types of policies . And that is also where your agent can help you get a better rate . Some agents have more options to offer ; some have more experience ; some understand health conditions or product types better . 