Choosing an agent or broker for your insurance needs is your choice. But before you choose, make sure they're licensed to sell insurance in Washington state.

Agents

• Agents represent either specific companies or a number of companies.
• An agent sells you the policies of the company he or she represents.
• They receive commissions on their sales.
  

Brokers

• Brokers represent and work for you.
• They aren’t appointed by companies.
• Brokers survey the market and bring back options for you to review.
• Many businesses use brokers because they can sample a broader range of available coverage, and put together the best package for specific business and coverage circumstances.
• Brokers receive commissions on their sales.
• They must disclose their fees to you.
  

How to select an insurance professional

Ask your friends, neighbors, co-workers and family about their experiences with their insurance agent or broker.

Check out potential agents or brokers before you decide to buy – it’s your right. We can tell you:

• How many complaints consumers have filed against an agent or broker.
• Whether they’ve faced disciplinary action in the past.