What are the differences between an insurance company and a broker?

Many people believe that an insurance broker and an insured are the same thing. To put an end to this mistake, learn about the main differences between an insurance company and a broker below!

When we are looking for a health insurance company, we often find the insurance broker. And most of us believe that an insurance company and a broker are the same thing, however, if we pay attention, there is a crucial difference between them.

Before we continue with the differences between an insurance company and a broker, it is important to know that an insurance company and an insurance broker are directly linked. However, they are not the same thing. Let's get to know a little about each one and, in this way, everything will become clearer.

Image: Getty

What is an insurance broker?

For those who have doubts, an insurance broker is the link between the client (you and me) and the insurance company. It is known that, by law, an insurance broker must mediate the contracting of insurance, being responsible for the entire process prior to signing the contract.

It is also known that without an insurance broker, a client will never be able to take out insurance. After all, this professional is trained and qualified to facilitate the bureaucracy that exists in all insurance processes. He is responsible for explaining the clauses and the proposal that the insurance company makes for its future insured.

In short, insurance brokers can sell the services and products offered by insurance companies.

What is an insurance company?

We have already seen that insurance brokers connect the customer to the insurance company, but then, what is an insurance company?

Insurance companies are companies authorized by SUSEP – the private insurance regulatory body – to, through signed contracts, assume risks and compensate customers if they suffer any damage.

The insurer is the one who has the contract and will be responsible for payment, if something happens to the insured. It is the responsibility of the insurance broker to contact the insurance company to request the client's rights.

What are the differences between them?

We already know what the insurance broker and the insurer do, so it is much easier to tell the differences.

The insurance company is the company that is responsible for making the payment. The insurance broker is responsible for intermediating the insurer x client relationship. Whatever the client needs from the insurance company, the broker will be the one who makes contact and that is the difference between an insurance company and a broker.

Therefore, if you are in need of insurance, remember to look for a renowned insurance broker that has proven quality and trust. After all, when necessary, you don't need to have another problem to solve.