---
title: "What Is Independent Agent? Definition | Epic Life Glossary"
description: "An independent agent is licensed to sell products from more than one insurance company and is not tied to a single carrier. Most independent agents are..."
url: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/independent-agent
publisher: Epic Life Group
apply: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/apply
quote: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/get-a-quote
---

Distribution structure

# Independent Agent

An independent agent is licensed to sell products from more than one insurance company and is not tied to a single carrier. Most independent agents are contractors, not employees.

## Why it matters

Independent agents can compare carriers for a family and pick a fit for health, age, and budget. They set up contracts with each carrier, directly or through an IMO. Contract levels, lead costs, and chargeback terms differ by carrier. Independence also means paying business costs, taxes, and licensing yourself. Families benefit from more choice, but the agent still has to be licensed and appointed with each carrier.

Source: [irs.gov](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee)

[Read next, for agentsHow to become a life insurance agent with no experience](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/careers/new-agents)

## Where we use this term

-   [Captive vs independent insurance agent: who owns your book?](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/captive-vs-independent-agent)
-   [How much does final expense insurance cost, and what sets the price?](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/final-expense-insurance-cost)
-   [IMO vs FMO vs MGA: which structure fits an independent agent?](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/imo-vs-fmo-vs-mga)
-   [Can you still get life insurance over 70? Options that still work](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/life-insurance-over-70)
-   [Start an insurance agency with Epic Life: how ownership works](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/careers/agency-ownership)

## Start your climb.

Tell us where you are today and request a call about licensing, training and the calls.

[Apply to join](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/apply)

Shopping for coverage instead? [Get a quote](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/get-a-quote)