Choosing the Right Insurance Agent: 5 Key Things You Must Know

By Dr. Jose G. Cardenas | Chief Tax Strategist, The C & R Group, LLC
Published in Financial Horizons: Insights for Building Wealth and Securing Your Legacy

When it comes to selecting an insurance agent, you're not just choosing someone to handle policies—you’re choosing a financial partner who will help protect your family, business, and legacy for years to come.

Unfortunately, too many people choose based on convenience or a flashy advertisement instead of doing their due diligence. And when a claim or crisis strikes, that lack of preparation can turn into a very expensive regret.

If you’re serious about safeguarding your future, these are the five non-negotiable things to look for when selecting the right insurance agent:

1. Ask for Referrals

This one is simple but powerful. Ask your family, friends, or trusted professionals (like your CPA or attorney) who they use. If someone you respect is happy with their agent’s service and follow-through, chances are you’ll be in good hands too.

💡 Pro Tip: Be cautious of agents who can't provide referrals or client testimonials.

2. Visit the Agent’s Website

Before booking a call, take 5–10 minutes to look through the agent’s website. You should find their biography, licensing information, reviews, and some insight into their process.

Does their site inspire confidence? Are they transparent about what they offer?
An outdated or vague website can be a red flag.

3. Look Out for Credentials

Your insurance agent should have more than just a license. Look for someone who understands how insurance fits into your broader financial picture.

Are they also licensed in financial services? Do they understand tax-advantaged strategies like Indexed Universal Life (IUL) or how annuities can support retirement planning?

A credentialed, multi-disciplinary professional can spot opportunities (and risks) that a basic agent might miss.

4. Interview the Agent

Yes, interview them. This is a relationship—not just a transaction.

Ask how they handle claims. Find out if they do annual policy reviews. Ask whether they offer multiple insurance carriers or only one. The goal isn’t to interrogate them—it’s to make sure they understand your unique situation and aren’t just selling a policy off the shelf.

5. Confirm Their Affiliations

Finally, look at who they’re affiliated with. Are they partnered with recognizable, reputable companies? Do they have access to national carriers, or are they limited to just one or two?

A good agent is like a financial quarterback—backed by the resources of a strong team.

🔍 A Real Example from the Field

One of my clients came to me after buying a policy from a local agent who was also their neighbor. They didn’t ask for credentials or options—they just trusted the familiarity.

Fast forward two years, and the policy wasn’t structured to protect their estate or provide tax-free retirement income. Worse yet, the agent didn’t explain the policy’s cash value features or its limitations.

We had to restructure everything, costing thousands in missed opportunities.

Final Thoughts

The right insurance agent can help you secure your family's future, minimize taxes, and align protection with your long-term goals.

The wrong agent? Well, they might just sell you a product and disappear until the next renewal.

So don’t rush. Vet wisely. And remember—you deserve a professional who brings strategy, not just sales.

About the Author

Dr. Jose G. Cardenas is a retired U.S. Army Finance Officer and the Chief Tax Strategist at The C & R Group, LLC. With a Doctorate in Business Administration and over 20 years of experience in financial strategy, tax planning, and life insurance, Dr. Cardenas helps individuals and business owners protect their wealth and build a legacy. Learn more at www.thecrgroupllc.com.

📌 Disclosure:

This article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as personalized legal or investment advice. Dr. Jose G. Cardenas, DBA, provides tax advisory services through The C & R Group, LLC. Insurance strategies, including Indexed Universal Life (IUL) and annuity products, may be offered through his role as a licensed financial professional affiliated with Experior Financial Group.