When trying to find a licensed insurance agent in Bellows Falls, it’s recommended you do an initial search by comparing rates online to save yourself time. You require a competent insurance agent, and also want to find affordable rates.
You have so many insurance agents to buy insurance from, and though it is a good thing to have a choice, having more car insurance agents makes it harder to compare rates.
How to buy auto insurance from an agent in Bellows Falls
Educated insurance agents can point out coverage gaps and help submit paperwork. One of the great benefits of comparing insurance prices online is you can get lower rates but still work with a licensed agent.
Once you complete this simple form, your insurance coverage information is immediately sent to agents in your area who will return price quotes to get your business. You never need to leave your house because quoted prices will be sent to your email. How’s that for easy! You’ll get the best rates AND an agent nearby.
Choosing a car insurance agent shouldn’t rely on just the price. These are valid questions to ask:
- What insurance companies do they recommend if they are an independent agent?
- How long has their agency been open in Bellows Falls?
- Is working in the agency their full-time job?
- Do they feel the quoted coverages are adequate?
- Does the agency support the community they serve?
- Do they have advanced training designations such as CPCU, AAI, AIC, or CIC?
- Are there any discounts that you might be missing?
Captive or Independent: There is a difference
When researching an insurance agent, there are two different types of agents from which to choose. Agents are classified as either independent or captive.
Agency Captives
This type of agents are contracted to one company and examples are Farmers Insurance or State Farm. These agents are unable to compare other company’s rates so they have to upsell other benefits. Captive agents are usually quite knowledgeable on their company’s products and that can be a competitive advantage. Some people will only purchase coverage from captives partially due to loyalty to the company and the convenience of having a single billing for all their coverages.
Independent Agencies or Brokers
Independent agents are not required to write business for one company so they have the ability to put coverage with lots of companies and possibly get better coverage at lower prices. To transfer your coverage to a different company, your agent can switch companies and you won’t have to switch agencies.
When shopping rates, you should always include several independent insurance agents for the best price selection. They also have the ability to place coverage with lesser-known insurance companies which can be an advantage.
Listed below are independent insurance agencies in Bellows Falls that are able to give price quote information.
- Doug Chalmers Agency – 103 Rockingham St – Bellows Falls, VT 05101 – (802) 463-4364
- Powers Insurance – 39 Village Sq – Bellows Falls, VT 05101 – (802) 463-3800
To view a full list of insurance agents in Bellows Falls, please view this page.
After receiving positive responses to these questions and a good coverage price, chances are good that you have found an auto insurance agent that will properly service your auto insurance policy.
Can I save by cutting out the agent?
Insurance agents are important to many people, but Vermont drivers can also buy from online companies direct. Certain companies who sell through agents in Bellows Falls also allow you to buy direct on their websites. This is something to consider.
If you’re uneasy about not getting advice from an agent when buying car insurance direct, that is normal but is not a big issue. Online companies that allow you to purchase coverage provide toll-free numbers to help you decide which coverages are appropriate.
Is car insurance cheaper online? That question is hard to answer due to the fact that there are many factors which can adversely affect your policy premium. Many people think that buying directly from the company saves money because there is no commission. But truthfully, the cost of constant advertising is expensive and this drives up their premium costs.
Vermont auto insurance information
Additional detailed information can be read at the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation website. Vermont consumers can report car insurance fraud, file complaints about an insurance agent or broker, find out industry alerts, and file complaints about a company.
Additional helpful sites include this link for Vermont coverage information and this link where you can make Bellows Falls auto insurance comparisons.
What is YOUR best insurance company?
Insureds leave their current company for any number of reasons including denial of a claim, extreme rates for teen drivers, high rates after DUI convictions or even being labeled a high risk driver. No matter why you want to switch, finding the right auto insurance provider is actually quite simple.
The cheapest auto insurance is available both online and with local Bellows Falls insurance agents, so you should compare both to have the best selection. Some companies do not offer online quoting and these small, regional companies work with independent agents.
