Broker

Insurance brokers intermediate between clients and insurance companies as client representatives, working directly with clients to compare policies and choose the best coverage for their requirements. As independents, they can access a broad range of policy options to offer unbiased advice, unlike agents working for insurers.

Retail brokers work with individuals and businesses, wholesale brokers intermediate between retail brokers and insurance companies, and surplus line brokers help clients find coverage when traditional insurers can’t. (Note: For surplus lines, policies are not secured by the state guarantee fund.)

Background Check

Carrier

Sources

Agenzee – Insurance Agents vs. Brokers vs. Producers

Related Blogs

State Updates

New York Allows 30-Day Grace Period for Excess Line Broker Tax Filing

The New York Department of Financial Services has issued a temporary penalty waiver affecting excess line broker annual tax filings for 2026. Under New York Insurance Law, brokers are normally required to file their annual premium tax statement electronically by March 15. However, due to questions surrounding access to the Department’s new DFS ID authentication system, the Superintendent has granted a penalty waiver through April 14, 2026. The announcement provides brokers with additional time to complete required filings while navigating the updated login system and ensuring compliance with regulatory reporting requirements.

All Audiences

Alaska Confirms No Changes to Surplus Lines Placement List What Order R 26-01 Means for Producing Brokers

The Alaska Division of Insurance has finalized Order R 26-01, confirming that no updates will be made to the state’s Surplus Lines Placement List. After a formal hearing and public comment period yielded no testimony or written submissions, the Director determined that the placement list adopted under prior orders will remain unchanged. This order provides continued regulatory clarity for producing brokers regarding due diligence requirements and surplus lines placement standards effective January 5, 2026.

License Management

New York Reminds Excess Line Brokers of Mandatory 2025 Premium Tax Filings

The New York excess lines market is approaching a critical compliance deadline. Licensed excess line brokers must submit their 2025 Premium Tax Statement electronically by March 16, 2026, regardless of whether any business was placed during the year. Recent guidance reinforces that zero-activity brokers are not exempt, and that incomplete filings, suspense items, or late submissions may result in financial penalties. This update highlights key filing requirements, important system availability dates, and best practices to ensure timely and accurate compliance.

How to Get Appointed with Insurance Carriers: A Step-by-Step Guide for Agencies, Brokers, and Agents

Carrier Appointments

All Audiences

How to Get Appointed with Insurance Carriers: A Step-by-Step Guide for Agencies, Brokers, and Agents

💼 What Does It Mean to Get Appointed—and Why It Matters in 2026 In the U.S. insurance market, an appointment is the green light from an insurance carrier allowing you (as an agent, broker, or agency) to sell their insurance products. Without it, you legally can’t represent their brand or earn commissions from their policies. Think of it like this: if insurance carriers are manufacturers, appointed agents are the authorized sellers. You can’t offer or promote the carrier’s products until you’re officially on their books. In 2026, this isn’t just a formality. With tighter regulations, digital sales models, and AI-backed evaluations, being appointed is your ticket to entering the market—and staying competitive.