We are independent! What does that mean? How do we get paid? Is this an advantage for you, our customers? Get ready for an honest and transparent look at the world of the Independent Insurance Agent.
Secret #1
Our services are free. Wait....FREE? Yes, we work for free. Well not entirely. Being an independent insurance agent means we do not work for or are employed by an insurance company. We work for ourselves. We get paid, but on a commission only basis by the many different insurance companies we are contracted to represent. But in the end, our services are free to the customer. Can you beat free expert guidance?
Secret #2
As it relates to Medicare benefits [the only space I work in and can speak intelligently about], your insurance coverage, benefits, premiums and copays are in no way connected to the commissions we agents are paid. I have heard some think that by using an agent, the customer somehow pays through higher premiums or copays. This is FAKE NEWS!
Secret #3
Good agents who truly care about their people have no allegiance to any particular carrier. So if I consistently recommend a particular carrier over another, its only because ‘said’ insurance company came out swinging in the new year to beat their competitors. They are offering better benefits that will fit many people! But it still won’t be the best plan for absolutely everyone.
Secret #4
Medicare makes mistakes. Agents make mistakes. Insurance companies make mistakes. There, I said it. So, if something goes wrong or looks wrong on a statement or bill, go easy on everyone. Trust that if you call your agent ASAP, we will help you navigate, fix and/or understand this issue. DO NOT bypass the agent. In that case, no one wins.
So why use an independent insurance agent over calling the actual insurance company and signing up yourself over the phone? Firstly, we are trying to build a business made of real relationships. We want to know you and take care of you. The ‘agent’ on the phone with Ultra Healthcare A company is five states away and doesn’t care who you are, how your health is or where you go to see a doctor. Secondly, we have the freedom to shop among many different carriers to find the absolute best plan with lowest cost. And with a fixed income, this is important! Lastly, we train for hours upon hours every year to keep up with the changes. Medicare is extremely complex, and I hear this comment almost daily, ‘I didn’t realize this was going to be so hard and confusing....I should have called you sooner.’ Don’t go it alone! Email me at carrie@cdi-cares.com or check me out on www.cdi-cares.com