The reason why insurance companies direct you to an agency is to help you through the process. They like working through a middle man because agents tend to know what is needed on an individual basis and how to get each person through the process efficiently. Dealing with the person directly causes problems with them not understanding what is needed of them or what is going on with their application. It isn't the insurance company's intention to give you the run around. It is just more efficient going through an experienced agent instead of the client directly. I looked up this website and it appears that they deal directly with their customers http://www.colonialpenn.com/Web/Home/Default.aspx. Also, you can go to State Farm, Allstate, American Family, etc. within your town to get quotes for insurance there. This allows you to be able to walk into the insurance company's office whenever needed. They do use agents at these offices, but they work directly with the company and aren't contracted from the outside. I hope this was helpful info. Good luck.

You are right on broncos!!

I was asked to pay a higher premium with the first company I applied with and my agent suggested that I try to apply with another carrier before placing the first policy. It turns out I am saving almost a $100 per year because of the agent's knowledge of the business. Go with an agent.

Quote from Spire8 on 01/15/08 at 14:43:48:

 
Also, did you decide between a mutual company or stock company? You'd want to go with a mutual company, where policy owners are the actual owners of the company. Unlike stock companies, where stock holders are the owners of the company. Policy owners of the stock company will not directly benefit from companies growth and profits or losses. I would recommend going with mutual company, because the returns on your investment in form of dividends are significantly higher. Some great mutual companies are:
 
Northwestern mutual
New York Life
Mass Mutual