You know you need auto and home insurance, but should you look online for a policy or talk to an agent? Consider your personal preferences and several pros and cons of each method before you decide where to purchase your insurance policies. Learn more about Understanding Insurance Policies.
Online Pros:
- Convenience: Click the mouse and instantly compare different coverage amounts and see quotes from several companies.
- No obligation to buy: Never feel pressured to buy a policy. Simply opt out of receiving future quotes or communication from comparison sites.
- Instant coverage: As soon as you find the policy you want, buy it and print insurance cards immediately.
Online Cons:
- Impersonal: Online policies don't allow you to build a relationship with a person who knows and understands you.
- Security: All your data is compiled and compared over the Internet, making your information a target for thieves. Less reputable comparison sites may also sell your data to third parties.
Agent Pros:
- Relationship: To an agent, particularly one in your hometown, you're more than a number. An agent can build a relationship with you and your family and may have a better sense of local needs.
- Get answers: If you have a question about your policy or coverage, call your agent and receive answers from a live person.
- Negotiate price: In some cases, an insurance agent can negotiate a policy's price and recommend discounts or other ways to reduce insurance costs.
For guidance on protecting your property and understanding safety considerations, see Insurance and Home Safety Overview.
Agent Cons:
- Inconvenient: Most offices have limited evening and weekend hours, so you can't always buy or make adjustments to your policy 24/7.
- Comparison challenges: Certain agents sell insurance from only one company. To compare different policies, you may need to work with an agent or broker who represents multiple companies.
Buying insurance is a necessity. While buying online and from a local agent both have pros and cons, find the personalized service you need when you purchase from an in-person agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy insurance online or from an agent?
It depends on your priorities: choose online for speed and comparison shopping, or an agent for personalized advice and ongoing service.
Can I get the same coverage online as from an agent?
Yes—many insurers offer identical policy forms both online and through agents, but an agent can help tailor coverage to your specific needs.
Will working with an agent save me money?
Sometimes—agents can identify discounts and bundling opportunities, but it's still wise to compare quotes from multiple sources.
How can I protect my personal information when shopping online?
Use reputable websites, look for secure connections (https), limit the amount of personal data you share, and review a site's privacy policy before submitting information.