DIFS Reminds Consumers to Verify That Their Insurance Agent Is Licensed When Buying and Renewing Insurance Policies

Media Contact:?Laura Hall, (517) 290-3779, [email protected]?
Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:?April 17, 2023?

(LANSING, MICH) The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is reminding consumers of the importance of verifying that their insurance agent or agency is properly licensed by DIFS and properly appointed by their insurance company when purchasing and renewing insurance policies.

?In order to be licensed, an agent must complete pre-licensing education, pass a licensing examination, meet licensing standards and regulatory requirements, operate ethically, and follow state regulations. It is critical to verify that any insurance agent you work with is licensed, especially before working with a new agent,? said DIFS Director Anita Fox. ?In addition, even previously licensed insurance professionals can lose their license for a variety of reasons, including criminal acts, so be sure to check the license of your insurance agent periodically. If you discover that the agent is not properly licensed, contact DIFS at 877-999-6442 or file a complaint online at Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints immediately.?

Under the Michigan Insurance Code, many individuals working in the insurance industry must be licensed by DIFS in order to legally conduct business. To verify the licensure and appointments of an insurance professional, visit the DIFS Locator, click on the Insurance tab, and then select one of the options from the License Type pulldown, such as:

• For Agents, select Resident Producer for agents in Michigan or Non-Resident Producer for those living out of state.
• For Counselors, select Resident or Non-Resident Counselor.
• For Solicitors, select Resident or Non-Resident Solicitor.

To complete the search, enter the individual?s name and address, if known, in the appropriate fields then click the green ?Search? button. A list of all individuals meeting the search criteria will be generated. Simply click on the name of the individual to verify their license and appointments. In addition to verifying a license, the DIFS Locator can also help consumers find a licensed agent working in their city by entering the city or ZIP code.

Individuals working in positions that require a license can have their license revoked or suspended for a variety of reasons, including being convicted of certain crimes or failure to complete continuing education requirements. In addition, in most cases, agents must be properly appointed by the insurance companies they represent in order to legally conduct business on your behalf. Unlicensed agents may fail to submit your application and money to the insurance company, leaving you without the insurance coverage for which you are paying. If that happens, you and your family and your property could potentially be vulnerable should disaster strike.

In addition to using the DIFS Locator, consumers can also call 877-999-6442, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to verify a person?s licensure status. For more information about the insurance industry in Michigan, including shopping tips, or to file a complaint, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS?or follow the Department on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

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