Life & Health · Chapter 1 · Industry Basics
Marketing (Distribution) Systems
Definition
How insurers sell: independent (American) agency — a self-employed agent contracts with many insurers and owns the book of business (expirations); career/captive (exclusive) agency — agents sell for one insurer; direct writer — agents are employees of the insurer; direct response — no agent at all (mail, phone, internet).
Exam tip
"Works for themself, sells for many companies" = independent agent. "One company only" = captive/career.
Related terms