Brokers

• An insurance broker is someone who works for his customer---not for any one insurance company. She has access to many insurance providers, which works in your favor. A broker can help you to find the most competitive rates based on your needs. He does all the shopping for you through the companies that he uses---when he is finished, he presents you with the most affordable rate he can get. Consider a broker for affordable insurance so that you don't have to find it alone---let a professional do all the work.
  
  

Agents

• An agent works for a company. A salesperson most of all, the agent can only sell her employer's products, which limits policy options. However, the agency may offer inclusive discounts and perks that a broker cannot find. Types of accident forgiveness or rewards for policy holders who have no accidents or tickets are usually in place by these companies. Examples of companies with agents are State Farm, Allstate or Liberty Mutual.
  
  

Tickets and Accidents

• You might have a hard time finding an affordable insurance policy if you have tickets and accidents on your driving record. Serious charges, like driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) can prove insurance coverage hard to find, if at all. Work with a broker in this case, or an insurance company that accepts riskier drivers, such as Esurance or Unitrin Direct. Find out if your state offers an insurance discount for a defensive driving course---some states offer as much as a 20 percent discount for policy holders or a license point deduction.
  
  

Personal and Vehicle Information

• Your premium is based on your risk factor---both personal and vehicle included. In states that use credit score as a risk guideline, your insurance may still be affordable, but higher priced. Home ownership, college degree and marital status are used to assess risk. Your vehicle's safety features and cost of replacement are considered. If you are completing college, getting married or plan to purchase a safer vehicle in the future, you may see a significant drop in your rate---resulting in a more affordable policy.
  
  

Discounts

• Always ask about discounts, whether you have a policy in place or are currently shopping. Many companies offer a multi-policy discount. If you condense all of your policies, such as renter's or homeowner's, life or health insurance, motorcycle and car, you may save on all of your policies just for insuring with the same company. You might receive a discount for having a subscription to a certain magazine or for using a specific credit card. Ask your provider if any discounts are offered, and see if you can qualify for any to ultimately pay a more affordable premium.