Selecting an insurance agent is an important decision. Like picking a doctor or a lawyer, you need to work with people who you are comfortable with and have considerable knowledge about their profession.
Ask your friends, relatives and business associates for names of insurance agents that have an excellent reputation. But, do not stop there. Find out what life insurance carriers they represent. If you are not interested in the companies they represent, you will need to find another agent.
Make sure that the agent:
* Devotes the time needed to understand and serve your annuity needs.
* Demonstrates clear knowledge about the various types of annuities that are available and can plainly explain your choices.
* Has a proven track record of excellent customer service.
* Is licensed by your state insurance department.
Find out the professional designations he or she has earned such as:
* Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC)
Contact Information:
The American College
270 S. Bryn Mawr Avenue
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Phone: 1-888-AMERCOL (263-7265)
Fax: 610-526-1465
Web site: www.amercoll.edu
* Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Contact Information:
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.
1670 Broadway, Suite 600
Denver, CO 80202-4809
Phone: 303-830-7500
Fax: 303-860-7388
Web site: www.cfp.net
* Member of the Registry of Financial Planning Practitioners
Contact Information:
The Financial Planning Association
5775 Glenridge Drive, NE,
Suite B-300
Atlanta, GA 30328-5364
Phone: 800-322-4237
Fax: 404-845-3660
Web site: www.fpanet.org
* National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
1735 K. Street NW
Washington, DC 20006-1506
202-728-8000
www.nasd.com
Continue to research agents until you have found someone who can help you meet your financial goals and needs.
