Captive vs. independent agent: which career path fits you?

Once you're licensed, you'll choose how you want to work. Most agents start as either a captive agent or an independent agent.

Captive agents

A captive agent sells insurance from one company. The company typically provides products, branding, training and marketing support.

• Pros: structured training, a well-known brand and built-in support
• Trade-offs: one company's products and pricing, and less flexibility when a client doesn't fit that company's rules

Independent agents

An independent agent works with several insurance companies. That means more options for clients — including people who've been turned down elsewhere.

• Pros: more products to offer, more ways to help hard-to-insure clients, and more independence
• Trade-offs: more to learn, and you may need to build your own book of business and systems

Questions to ask yourself

• Do I want a structured program, or more independence?
• Do I want to offer one company's products, or compare several?
• Am I interested in specialized markets, like the FAIR Plan?

You can change paths later

Your license goes with you. Many agents start in one setting and move to another as they gain experience. Read more: Is a remote insurance career right for you?

By Unquoting Insurance Company. This article is general information, not advice for your specific situation. Coverage and eligibility vary by state and policy — call (888) 928-9324 to talk with a licensed Insurance Agent.