Question 1

What is an independent insurance agent?

Accepted Answer

An independent insurance agent is a licensed professional who represents multiple insurance companies rather than a single carrier. This allows them to compare rates, coverage options, and policy terms from many insurers to find the best fit for each client. Independent agents are sometimes called brokers, though there are technical distinctions in some states. Prominent Insurance Services is an independent agency representing 20+ carriers.

Question 2

What is a captive insurance agent?

Accepted Answer

A captive insurance agent works exclusively for one insurance company — like State Farm, Allstate, Farmers, or Nationwide — and can only sell that company's products. Captive agents have deep knowledge of their carrier's products but cannot shop the market for you. If their carrier is not competitive for your risk profile, you may pay more than necessary or receive less coverage than you need.

Question 3

Is an independent agent more expensive than a captive agent?

Accepted Answer

No — independent agents often find lower prices because they can shop multiple carriers. Both independent and captive agents are compensated through commissions built into the premium you pay. Because independent agents have access to competitive markets, they frequently deliver better pricing. The key difference is not cost but market access: independent agents can find the carrier most competitive for your specific risk profile.

Question 4

Which type of agent is better for business insurance?

Accepted Answer

For most businesses, an independent agent is the superior choice. Commercial insurance requires accessing specialty markets, surplus lines carriers, and admitted markets simultaneously. A captive agent's single carrier may not offer the specific coverages your business needs — particularly for professional liability, cyber, D&O, or industry-specific risks. Independent agents like Prominent Insurance have access to admitted and non-admitted markets across the commercial spectrum.