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Computers offer individuals a unsophisticated method for searching online insurance quotes. More and more consumers research online internet sites when contimplating the purchase of life insurance without knowing how to get the best value.

People seek online quotes for a variety of reasons. Those people interested in an online insurance quote may not be sure the wish to purchase coverage. Many people just want a ballpark range of prices when beginning to apply for coverage.

But despite the website’s sophistication, the applicant will not receive the best possible advising due to the fact that they are working with a machine, rather than a well-versed human being.

Recently, I compared several of these large internet insurance websites that concentrate their business among a few of the low cost carriers against an independent agent’s ability to choose from many more highly rated companies.

I learned the following:

broadly speaking, those that are under 50 years of age and in good health will pay around the same amount in premiums at the better health ratings, which are preferred best and preferred non-smokers. This is due to the fact that most low cost carriers are priced competitively for young, healthy applicants. A large number of applicants over age 50 will see a wider range of premiums than those under 50, even without major health issues. In addition, those with weight and/or health issues may see an even greater range of prices.

Oftentimes, online quote sites decide to focus on a certain number of carriers. This adds up because less carriers means a higher volume per carrier. Higher volume directly correlates to higher commission levels, along with a bonus.

Instead, more often than not, independent agents offer their customers coverage through many different carriers. More options become available for the independent agent to offer the applicant as they grow older. This is due to underwriting criteria varying for each carrier.

Another major advantage of using an independent agent is their ability to access competent underwriting advice before applying for coverage. They often have access to an in house underwriter or an underwriter at multiple carriers. Having hundreds of companies to choose from is a major benefit of using an independent agent. It helps the agent and applicant decide on a carrier, saving time and frustration for both parties.

The independent agent can discuss pertinent medical information and receive informal offers from several carriers, when and if it is appropriate. It is in this way that the agent is able to lead the applicant to the insurance company that puts their case in the most favorable light.

While many people refer to online sites when it comes to life insurance, one drawback to doing so is that these sites are unable to think “out of the box.” Recently, we aided one of our life insurance clients in Florida, replacing a whole life policy with a guaranteed premium universal policy. This resulted in cutting his premium by almost half because he didn’t have the need for cash accumulation.

Because we were mindful of changes in carrier underwriting guidelines, one of our Southern California term insurance clients was able to replace a year year old policy and save money while extending the guarantee period. Specific underwriting criteria will see improved ratings with time. Another term insurance owner in Texas replaced existing coverage and received a better health rating because we alerted him to the opportunity.

A competent, independent life insurance agent can do all of this for you and more.