
Getting contracts with insurance companies can be a daunting task, but breaking it down into smaller steps can make it more manageable. You'll need to have a solid understanding of the insurance industry and its requirements.
First, research the types of contracts insurance companies typically offer, such as property and casualty, life, or health insurance. This will help you tailor your services to meet their needs.
To increase your chances of getting a contract, you'll need to have a strong reputation and a proven track record of delivering quality services. This can be achieved by building a solid online presence, networking with industry professionals, and providing excellent customer service.
Having a clear understanding of the contract requirements and the insurance company's needs will also be crucial in getting a contract. This includes knowing what services are typically included in a contract and what the insurance company is looking for in a partner.
What It Means and Benefits
To become a preferred contractor, you need to earn the trust of top insurance companies through consistent delivery of high-quality work and exceptional customer service.
A preferred contractor is the first call for insurance companies when they need contracting services, demonstrating the value of building strong relationships with policyholders and insurance companies alike.
This coveted position is not handed over, but rather earned through a deep understanding of insurance processes and guidelines.
To get contracts with insurance companies, you need to be willing to go the extra mile and consistently deliver top-notch work, which can lead to long-term partnerships and a steady stream of referrals.
Insurance companies often rely on preferred contractors for their expertise and reliability, making it easier to get new contracts and expand your business.
Consistently delivering high-quality work and excellent customer service is key to building trust with insurance companies and becoming a preferred contractor.
Challenges and Requirements
Becoming a preferred contractor with insurance companies requires a significant investment of time and effort to build and maintain a solid reputation.
Perfecting your skills and staying updated with industry trends is crucial to meet client expectations. Meeting the necessary legal insurance requirements, such as obtaining required licenses and having adequate insurance coverage, is another hurdle to cross.
Fostering relationships with insurance adjusters and understanding the specific insurance processes and guidelines of each company you work with is also essential.
Challenges of Freelancing
Becoming a preferred contractor requires a significant investment of time and effort to build and maintain a solid reputation.
Perfecting your skills and staying updated with industry trends is crucial to succeed in this field.
Meeting the necessary legal insurance requirements can be a hurdle, including obtaining required licenses and having adequate insurance coverage.
Fostering relationships with insurance adjusters and understanding the specific insurance processes and guidelines of each company you work with is also essential.
The journey of becoming a preferred contractor has its ups and downs, but with the right strategies and a commitment to excellence, the rewards can outweigh the challenges.
Essential Requirements

To become a successful contractor, you need to meet certain requirements that will help you get started and establish your business. Insurance is non-negotiable for contractors, so make sure to get adequate insurance coverage for your line of work.
You'll need to find out what insurance coverage is necessary for your specific line of work, which can be confusing, especially for new contractors. To get started, consider reaching out to an expert who can guide you through the process and help you find a policy that suits your business needs.
To get appointed direct with an insurance company, you'll need to meet the following requirements:
- Active insurance producer license
- E&O (Errors and Omissions) insurance
- Current AML (Anti-Money Laundering) Training
- Current annuity training (if you're selling annuities)
- Agency license (if you're getting appointed as a business entity)
To get credentialed, you'll need to establish a business registration, such as an S-Corp or LLC, which will require a Tax ID. You'll also need to get a liability insurance policy and establish an NPI (National Provider Identifier) for type 1 (individual) and type 2 (business entity).
Steps to Becoming a Contractor
To become a contractor, you need to take a few key steps. Meeting basic requirements is just the starting point.
Understanding the specific needs of insurance companies is crucial. Ryan McEachron shares that there are three critical steps to take.
The first step is to develop expert knowledge of the industry. This will help you understand the nuances of working with insurance companies.
Steps to Becoming
Becoming a contractor for insurance companies requires more than just meeting basic requirements. To get started, you'll want to understand the steps involved in building a successful contracting business.
First, gaining professional experience and building a solid reputation is crucial. This involves perfecting your skills, staying updated with industry trends, and consistently delivering exceptional service. Your reputation plays a significant role in the insurance industry, and exceeding client expectations is key.
To build your reputation, encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews and testimonials online. This builds credibility with insurance companies who prefer to work with contractors that have a proven track record of excellence.
In order to become a preferred contractor for insurance companies, you'll need to follow specific steps. Ryan McEachron, a specialist at ISU Armac, suggests three critical steps to take: understanding the requirements of each insurance company, building relationships with carriers, and having the right expertise and resources.
To get started, you can research the requirements of each insurance company by looking at their carrier contracting information. For example, some companies like 5 Star Life and Aetna require contractors to be licensed and have a certain level of experience.
Here's a breakdown of some of the insurance companies that contractors can work with:
This list is not exhaustive, but it gives you an idea of the types of insurance companies that contractors can work with. By researching each company's requirements and building relationships with carriers, you can increase your chances of becoming a preferred contractor.
Becoming In-Network
To become a preferred contractor for insurance companies, you need to understand the process of credentialing and contracting. Credentialing involves obtaining the necessary licenses and certifications to work with insurance carriers, while contracting involves negotiating agreements with these carriers to sell their products.

To get started, you'll need to establish a business registration, such as an S-Corp or LLC, and obtain a Tax ID number. You may also need to obtain a liability insurance policy.
Here are some key credentialing and contracting requirements to keep in mind:
- Establish an NPI (National Provider Identifier) for type 1 (individual) and type 2 (business entity)
- Make sure to work under a working license regardless of the location and state of your practice
- Establish and keep updating your CAQH profile
- Get to know the number of insurance networks you can work with and process credentialing for them.
Some insurance carriers may be more willing to work with smaller agencies if they have a robust network of producers. For example, the Redbird Network represents a wide range of insurance companies, including Aetna, Ameritas, and Cigna.
Here are some of the insurance carriers that the Redbird Network represents:
Keep in mind that becoming a preferred contractor for insurance companies can take time and effort. It's essential to be patient and persistent in your pursuit of contracts and appointments.
Credentialing and Contracting
To get contracts with insurance companies, you need to go through the credentialing and contracting process. Credentialing is the process by which insurance companies verify your qualifications, experience, and certification to confirm you meet their requirements to join their network.
You'll need to gather all the required documentation, including your medical license, educational certificates, and more. This process can be lengthy, but it's essential to ensure you do it right to participate in insurance networks and provide the best possible care for your patients.
To make the credentialing process smoother, it's helpful to have a Tax ID, which will be authorized once you establish a business registration. You'll also need to establish an NPI for type 1 (individual) and type 2 (business entity), and work under a valid license regardless of your practice location.
Here's a checklist of the necessary steps:
- Gather your requirements, including documentation of your education, training, and experience.
- Start the application process, which may involve completing an online application and submitting supporting documents.
- Make sure your CAQH profile is up to date and has the current information about your practice, insurance, licensing, etc.
- Pay the application fee and wait for the decision.
Keep in mind that every insurance provider has a network provider service department where you can get information about their credentialing process. Be sure to get every possible information necessary for your credentialing and take enough time to fill out your application properly.
Credentialing and Contracting Requirements
To get credentialed and contracted with insurance companies, you'll need to have a Tax ID, which is authorized once you establish a business registration, such as an S-Corp, LLC, etc.
Getting a liability insurance policy is also a must. This will protect both you and your business in case of any unexpected events.
You'll need to establish an NPI for type 1 (individual) and type 2 (business entity). This is crucial for participating in insurance networks.
Make sure to work under a working license, regardless of the location and state of your practice. This is a requirement for all healthcare providers.
Establishing and keeping your CAQH profile up to date is essential. This will ensure that your information is accurate and current.
You should also get to know the number of insurance networks you can work with and process credentialing for them. This will help you streamline the credentialing process and save time.
Here is a checklist of the required documents and information:
- Medical license
- Education certificates
- Liability insurance policy
- NPI (National Provider Identifier)
- Working license
- CAQH profile
- Contact information for insurance companies
Get Malpractice
Getting malpractice insurance is a crucial step in becoming an in-network provider. Malpractice insurance provides coverage for legal expenses and damages that may be awarded to the patient.
Becoming an in-network provider often requires malpractice insurance to ensure that insurance companies are protected in case of a malpractice claim. This is a common requirement for many insurance companies.
Malpractice insurance can help protect healthcare providers from financial ruin. Even the most skilled and careful healthcare providers can make mistakes, and malpractice insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection in these situations.
Networking and Lead Generation
Networking is pivotal in getting contracts with insurance companies, and it's no different for a contractor. Participate actively in industry events like conferences, workshops, and trade shows to connect with insurance agents and adjusters.
Joining professional associations that cater to insurance professionals offers networking opportunities and industry-specific resources. By making connections, you can become a preferred contractor.
Building relationships with insurance agents and adjusters can significantly increase your chances of becoming a preferred contractor. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and seek out opportunities to meet and connect with these professionals.
Partnering with a lead generation company can help boost your visibility among insurance companies, providing a steady stream of leads and saving you time and effort in sourcing your own.
Networking with Local
Networking with local insurance professionals is crucial for contractors looking to expand their business. Participate actively in industry events like conferences, workshops, and trade shows to connect with insurance agents and adjusters.
Industry events provide a platform to meet and connect with insurance professionals, including agents and adjusters. Joining professional associations that cater to insurance professionals offers additional networking opportunities and industry-specific resources.
Networking with insurance agents and claims adjusters can significantly increase your chances of becoming a preferred contractor. These professionals often have a list of preferred contractors that they recommend to their clients, so getting on that list can lead to more jobs.
By attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and seeking out opportunities to meet and connect with insurance professionals, you can position your business as a top choice for insurance restoration jobs. Demonstrating your expertise and reliability is key to building strong relationships with these decision-makers.
Lead Generation Company
Partnering with a lead generation company can help boost your visibility among insurance companies by connecting you with those looking for your services. By working with a lead generation company, you can gain access to a steady stream of leads, saving you time and effort in sourcing your own.
ISU Armac understands the ins and outs of becoming a preferred contractor for insurance companies and is here to guide you through the process. This is especially helpful when avoiding common mistakes that can derail your lead generation efforts.
A lead generation company can provide the support you need to succeed in the competitive world of insurance restoration jobs. By partnering with a lead generation company, you can gain access to a network of insurance companies looking for your services.
By following the right strategies, you can effortlessly become a preferred contractor and land more lucrative insurance restoration jobs. At ISU Armac, we're here to help you navigate the process and achieve your goals.
Carrier Contracts and Appointments
Getting insurance carrier appointments can be a challenge, but understanding the process can help. Assuming you don't have any vector hits or a questionable background, insurance brokers should expect to be appointed and ready to write business in about 10 days.
To get contracted direct with an insurance company, you'll need to meet the requirements, which include having an active insurance producer license, E&O insurance, current AML Training, and current annuity training if you're selling annuities. You may also need an agency license if you're getting appointed as a business entity.
The types of contracts available include IMO, FMO, BGA, MGA, GA, street level, and LOA (commission assignment). This is not an exhaustive list, but Redbird can support most relationships with these direct contract levels.
Here's a breakdown of the types of contracts available:
- IMO: Insurance Marketing Organization
- FMO: Field Marketing Organization
- BGA: Broker General Agency
- MGA: Managing General Agency
- GA: General Agency
- Street level: direct appointment with the carrier
- LOA: commission assignment
Keep in mind that Redbird is not licensed for property and casualty and does not offer home insurance, auto insurance, or traditional business insurance.
Getting Carrier Appointments
Getting Carrier Appointments can be a daunting task, but it's a crucial step in building a robust insurance business.
To get contracted direct with an insurance company, you'll need an active insurance producer license, E&O insurance, current AML training, and annuity training if you're selling annuities.
Working directly with a carrier requires being familiar with the appointment requirements of the various regions your producers are working in, as states take varied approaches to producer appointments.
Getting insurance carrier appointments indirectly through aggregators, MGAs, or MGUs can be a good option for smaller agencies, as it allows you to partner with larger agencies and access a wider range of carriers.
To get appointed with a carrier, you'll need to establish a business registration, obtain a liability insurance policy, and get an NPI for type 1 (individual) and type 2 (business entity).
Here are the types of contracts that Redbird can support with most carriers:
- IMO
- FMO
- BGA
- MGA
- GA
- Street level
- LOA (commission assignment)
It's worth noting that carriers often prefer to partner with larger agencies, but having a robust carrier network is key to recruiting good producers.
Appointment Timeframe
Getting appointed with insurance companies can take some time, but it's a standard practice in the industry. It typically takes around 10 days to be appointed and ready to write business.
This timeframe applies to insurance brokers who don't have any vector hits or a questionable background.
Challenges and Perks
Getting contracts with insurance companies can be a challenging but rewarding experience. One major challenge is navigating the complex underwriting process, which involves evaluating the risk of insuring a particular business.
Insurance companies have a high demand for services, but they also have a limited capacity to take on new clients, making it competitive to get contracts.
To overcome this challenge, it's essential to have a solid understanding of the insurance industry and its needs. This includes knowing the types of insurance products that are in high demand, such as commercial auto insurance, which has a high demand due to the large number of businesses that require it.
Having a strong professional network can also help you get contracts with insurance companies. Building relationships with insurance agents and brokers can provide you with valuable insights and referrals that can help you get your foot in the door.
Another perk of getting contracts with insurance companies is the potential for long-term revenue streams. Insurance contracts can be renewed annually, providing a stable source of income for businesses that can maintain a strong relationship with their clients.
Insurance companies often require a minimum level of experience and expertise from their partners, so having a strong track record of delivering quality services is essential for getting contracts.
Working with Carriers
Securing insurance carrier appointments can be a challenge, especially for new agencies. To get started, consider partnering with upstream agencies like FMOs, aggregators, or MGAs/MGUs, which can grant your agency access to carrier appointments and contracts.
You can also work directly with carriers, but this requires cultivating relationships and securing contracts. Smaller carriers may be more willing to work with new agencies, and it's essential to understand that contracts may be generic and require you to prove your ability to build a distribution network.
To make a strong pitch, be prepared to show your strategy and emphasize what sets your agency apart. This could include highlighting your processes and technology, such as AgentSync, which can help demonstrate your compliance with state regulations.
Some states only require carriers to maintain internal lists or annual updates, while others require appointments for individual producers. It's crucial to be aware of these differences and state-by-state requirements to ensure a compliant working relationship with a carrier.
Here are some key factors to consider when working with carriers:
- Smaller carriers may be more willing to work with new agencies.
- Generic contracts may be the norm.
- Carriers may require proof of your ability to build a distribution network.
- State-by-state requirements vary, so be aware of the differences.
By understanding these factors and being prepared to showcase your agency's strengths, you can build a strong relationship with carriers and secure contracts that benefit both parties.
Credentialing Process
To get contracts with insurance companies, you need to go through the credentialing process. This involves obtaining a National Provider Identifier (NPI) and other necessary credentials, such as a medical license and certifications.
You'll also need to establish a Tax ID, which will be authorized once you set up a business registration, like an S-Corp or LLC. If you're a sole proprietor, you can use your SSN ID instead.
Getting a liability insurance policy is also a must, as it protects you and your practice in case of any medical malpractice claims. You'll need to establish an NPI for both individual and business entity types.
To work with multiple insurance networks, you'll need to process credentialing for each one separately. This can be a time-consuming process, but it's essential for participating in those networks and accepting insurance from patients.
Here's a checklist to help you get started with the credentialing process:
- Get an application from the insurance provider's network provider service department and gather all necessary information.
- Filling out the application properly, including your service areas and available locations, is crucial.
- You'll need to provide documentation of your education, training, and experience.
- Complete the online application and submit supporting documents.
- Make sure your CAQH profile is up to date and has the current information about your practice, insurance, licensing, etc.
- Keep a copy of your application before submitting it.
- Confirm with the insurance provider that they've received your application and follow up until it's approved.
- Pay the application fee and wait for the decision.
Billing to Providers
Billing to providers is a crucial step in getting contracts with insurance companies. To make this process easier, providers should understand the billing requirements of the insurance companies they contract with.
In-network billing can be complex, but providers can take steps to simplify it. First, confirm that the patient is covered for the services before providing them.
Gathering coinsurance and copayment at the treatment time can help avoid surprises later. This can be done by asking patients to pay their share upfront.
To ensure timely reimbursement, providers should submit claims as soon as possible. Knowing the timeline of their in-network provider is also essential.
Providers should also know when their network provider pays for their services and take follow-up action if claims are not paid within the provided timeframe.
To keep track of payments, providers should retain copies and documents of payments for Explanation of Benefits (EOBs). This will help them stay on top of their finances.
Here are some key steps to follow when billing to providers:
- Confirm patient coverage before providing services
- Gather coinsurance and copayment at the treatment time
- Submit claims as soon as possible
- Know the timeline of your in-network provider
- Know when your network provider pays for your services
- Retain copies and documents of payments for EOBs
Carrier Preferences and Relationships
Larger insurance carriers tend to prefer working with bigger agencies due to the perceived risks associated with smaller agencies.
Insurance carriers often view smaller agencies as a risk because they may be acquired by another company in the following year, making it a hassle to renegotiate contracts.
Smaller agencies, however, can find success by partnering with carriers that have a track record of working with new agencies.
Carriers are also more likely to work with larger agencies because they have a more established distribution model, making it easier to extend proprietary products and services.
Here are the main reasons carriers prefer working with larger agencies:
- Insurance carriers don’t want to put the work into a contract with an agency that’s going to be swallowed in the following year’s M&A activity.
- Carriers are paying their lawyers to draw up contracts, and setting a contract with a smaller agency means a smaller ROI on their legal team’s time.
- Carrier services like proprietary products and limited access services are more easily extended to larger agencies whose distribution models are already assured.
- New and small are both risks for carriers. Inexperience can mean having processes that aren’t built to support robust compliance activity, which poses bigger risks to the carrier.
Establish Carrier Relationship
Establishing a carrier relationship is crucial for any insurance agency. You'll need to cultivate relationships with your intended partners to secure a contract.
Smaller carriers may be a better starting point, as they often have a track record of working with new agencies. This can give you a boost in getting your foot in the door.
Your contract may be generic, with little room for negotiation. You'll need to prove that you can build a distribution network to secure a contract.
To make a strong pitch, be prepared to show your strategy and emphasize what sets your agency apart. This is your chance to drive home your edge and make your agency stand out.
You'll need to drive to your process, showcasing that you have systems in place to keep your producers compliant. This can be a major selling point for carriers.
Some carriers use Just-In-Time appointments, which can be beneficial for new agencies. This allows them to hold off on paying state appointment fees until your producers have submitted business.
Once you've made a connection, you'll need to obtain the contract and appointment paperwork. This will involve submitting it back through your carrier partners for official designation.
Carriers have varying appointment processes, and it's essential to be familiar with the requirements for each region your producers are working in. This will help you navigate the process and avoid any potential issues.
Here are some key takeaways to consider when establishing a carrier relationship:
- Smaller carriers may be a better starting point
- Be prepared to show your strategy and emphasize what sets your agency apart
- Drive to your process and showcase compliance systems
- Some carriers use Just-In-Time appointments
- Familiarize yourself with carrier appointment processes and regional requirements
By following these steps, you can establish a strong carrier relationship and set your agency up for success.
Why Do Carriers Prefer Larger Agencies?
Carriers prefer working with larger insurance agencies because they don't want to put the work into a contract with an agency that may be acquired by another company the following year.
This is a major concern for carriers, as they pay their lawyers to draw up contracts, and setting a contract with a smaller agency means a smaller return on investment for their legal team's time.
Carriers also prefer larger agencies because their distribution models are already established, making it easier to extend carrier services like proprietary products and limited access services.
Inexperience is a risk for carriers, as new and small agencies may have processes that aren't built to support robust compliance activity, posing bigger risks to the carrier.
Here are the main reasons carriers prefer larger agencies:
- Insurance carriers don’t want to put the work into a contract with an agency that’s going to be swallowed in the following year’s M&A activity.
- Carriers are paying their lawyers to draw up contracts, and setting a contract with a smaller agency means a smaller ROI on their legal team’s time.
- Carrier services like proprietary products and limited access services are more easily extended to larger agencies whose distribution models are already assured.
- New and small are both risks for carriers. Inexperience can mean having processes that aren’t built to support robust compliance activity, which poses bigger risks to the carrier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 4 requirements of an insurance contract?
For an insurance contract to be valid, it must meet four essential requirements: offer and acceptance, exchange of consideration, competent parties, and a legal purpose. These requirements ensure a binding and enforceable agreement between the insurer and policyholder.
Sources
- https://isu-armac.com/how-to-become-a-preferred-contractor-for-insurance-companies/
- https://www.medicalbillersandcoders.com/blog/become-in-network-with-insurance-companies/
- https://redbirdagents.com/our-carriers/
- https://sybridmd.com/blogs/credentialing-corner/credentialing-with-insurance-companies/
- https://agentsync.io/blog/producer-management/obtaining-a-carrier-appointment-as-a-new-insurance-agency
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