What should I expect from a professional insurance advisor, and how can I evaluate my current one?

An advisor will guide you through the complex task of choosing appropriate coverage at an affordable cost. The following is what you should expect from a professional insurance agent. Use this checklist to evaluate your current advisor. Your professional insurance advisor should:

1. Work with you to evaluate your needs for insurance coverage.
2. Explain the details of different insurance plans.
3. Make specific recommendations and tailor plans to suit your special needs and budgets.
4. Review your plans periodically to update coverage and limit costs.
5. Serve as your advocate and advisor in dealing with insurance companies, doctors and hospitals, and government agencies involving claims, services and regulations.
6. Help you as a business owner communicate benefits packages to employees and demonstrate how various provisions can complement personal and government financial plans.