DSM Insurance Guy Blog

Can I Change Insurance Agents? The Iowa AOR Change Hack

Written by Dallas Downey. CLCS | May 21, 2024 at 3:56 PM

Understanding the Agent of Record change, or AOR, is a fundamental component in the insurance landscape, especially for businesses and individuals looking to optimize their insurance experience. In this article, Dallas offers a comprehensive overview of AORs, their role in insurance, and why they are often utilized, particularly by business owners.

Defining the Agent of Record

An Agent of Record represents a legally appointed individual or agency responsible for managing a policyholder's insurance policy. This designation becomes particularly important when a policyholder wishes to switch agents but retain the same insurance carrier. Sometimes, an Agent of Record change is the easiest way to improve your insurance situation. 

The Significance of AOR Change in Insurance Transactions

Initiating an AOR change involves the policyholder completing an AOR form, which formally transfers the handling of the insurance policy from one agent to another. Businesses often leverage this process for a multitude of reasons, but mainly to ensure they are working with the best agency for them and that they're getting the best service and terms for their insurance needs. 

Advantages of Opting for an AOR Change

  • Improved Service Quality: Changing agents allows policyholders, especially businesses, to seek agents who offer more aligned services and expert guidance.
  • Cost-Effective Solution: An AOR transition is much less time consuming and costly than reshopping your current insurance policies. You're able to spend much less time looking over insurance documents, and your new agent will review your policies immediately. 
  • Customized Care: A new agent can mean more focused attention and a deeper understanding of the policyholder's unique insurance requirements, which is especially beneficial for businesses with complex insurance needs.

AOR Changes and Their Impact on Iowa Businesses

With DSMIG, we focus on delivering specialized business, auto, and home insurance services to a wealth of individuals in not just Des Moines, but all of Iowa. By utilizing AORs in our agency, we simplify our client's insurance process and provide the best service possible while also providing peace of mind. Recognizing the frequent use of AOR changes by businesses helps us tailor our services to meet the sophisticated demands of our clientele.

Conclusion

An AOR change is a significant element in the insurance sector, offering policyholders, particularly business owners, the flexibility to manage their insurance policies effectively. For agencies like DSMIG, being adept in handling AOR processes is essential to providing exceptional service and maintaining strong client relationships.

 
 

FAQ

Q: What is an Agent of Record (AOR)?

A: An Agent of Record is a legally designated individual or agency responsible for managing a policyholder's insurance policy. This designation is necessary when a policyholder decides to switch to a new insurance agent while staying with the same insurance company.

Q: Why do businesses often change their AOR?

A: Businesses frequently change their AOR to improve the quality of their insurance service, gain access to more competitive rates, or receive more personalized and relevant insurance advice and services.

Q: How does an AOR change process work?

A: To initiate an AOR change, a policyholder must simply fill out and submit an AOR form to the agent you're moving to. This form officially transfers the management of the insurance policy from the current agent to the new agent. You can request the AOR form from your new agent.

Q: Are there any benefits for a business to change its AOR?

A: Yes, businesses can benefit from changing their AOR through enhanced service quality, potential cost savings, and receiving more customized attention and solutions for their specific insurance needs.

Q: Can individual policyholders also change their AOR?

A: Absolutely. While AOR changes are common among businesses, individual policyholders can also change their AOR for similar reasons such as better service or more suitable policy management.

Q: Is there a cost associated with changing an AOR?

A: Generally, there are no direct costs associated with changing an AOR. However, it's important to review any potential changes in policy terms or rates that might occur with the new agent.

Q: How long does the AOR change process take?

A: The duration of the AOR change process can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the responsiveness of the involved parties. It's advisable to check with the new agent for an estimated timeline.

Q: How does DSMIG handle AOR changes?

A: At DSMIG, we handle AOR changes efficiently, ensuring a smooth transition for our clients, be they businesses or individuals, to provide them with tailored insurance services that meet their unique needs.

Q: Who can I contact for more information about AOR changes?

A: For more detailed information or specific inquiries about AOR changes, you can contact us here at DSMIG by emailing Dallas at dallas@mcdadeins.com.