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Insurance Myths Vol. 1 (Agents Control Rates)
The article addresses the misconception that agents control insurance rates and explains quote differences for the same company among consumers seeking coverage. It does not cover agent authority over base premiums. Approved rate structures and applicant information determine final premiums under state rules.
Written and reviewed by Steve White, Owner, NPN License#: 19284005 · Initially published September 22, 2026
MYTH #1- Agents Control Rates
Question: Why are quotes from the same company different from different agents?
There is no one answer to this, however understanding the insurance market and pricing will give you an edge as an informed consumer. Most important to be aware of is home and auto rates in TX are filed with the State of TX by standard companies. Premiums that are different from the same company would most likely be because of a difference in coverage, adding or removing discounts, or policy fees being added.
Below are some common differences that can affect rates:
1. DISCOUNTS YOU MAY NOT BE AWARE OF:
a. AFFILIATE GROUP DISCOUNT– There are affiliate group programs that some companies have which may qualify you for a rate that the general public does not qualify for. EXAMPLE: You work for a fortune 500 company and they have a group program set up with company x and therefore you get a discounted rate through that program. With “off the rack” retail rates, differences in premium are most likely going to be explained by finding differences in coverage’s, discounts, policy that is being quoted, or claims that are being factored.
b. LOW MILEAGE DISCOUNTS– Some companies offer discounts on vehicles that are driven less than 8k miles per year, be sure to mention this if it applies to you.
c. PAID IN FULL DISCOUNTS FOR AUTO INSURANCE– Some companies will offer fairly substantial discounts if you r are able to pay in full for your auto insurance.
d. NEW ROOF DISCOUNTS ON HOME- This can be a substantial discount with some companies, if you have recently replaced your roof, be sure to tell your agent
e. COMPLETE HOME REWIRING DISCOUNT-If you have recently rewired your entire house, some companies will give you a discount for this as well
2. COVERAGE’S BEING INCLUDED (OR NOT INCLUDED)- Agent’s have varying levels of understanding of policy coverage’s and various levels of general practice for applying coverage’s to quotes. EXAMPLE: Agent A has a general practice of never quoting foundation coverage unless asked, even though it’s available with company X. Agent B always quotes with foundation coverage, resulting in a slightly higher premium with Agent B, but better coverage.
So how do you know what to look for? We suggest looking for experienced, knowledgeable agents that have professional insurance designations. This will greatly improve your chances of finding a good agent that will help you navigate through what is available in the market place and how to make sense of it all.
3. POLICY FEES- Another way rates can be different is if a policy fee is applied. Policy fees must be disclosed on the quote, and/or application. There are many shops that charge additional fees to do business with them. You can easily determine this by looking at the quote and application for disclosure of fees.
So, *MYTH #1*, busted. Agents don’t control the rates for home and auto insurance in TX, when it comes to rating we have very little control. If you receive quotes from the same company and the premiums are different, look closely at the coverage’s on the quote, the discounts applied, and policy fees. 9 out of 10 times, this is where the difference lies.
WHAT DOES ALL THIS MEAN FOR YOU?
Companies setting rates can be a good thing for you as the consumer, this really means it’s more important to find a good agent you trust because he or she will do their best to quote the broadest, most applicable coverage’s, apply all the available discounts, and help you understand everything from claims, to billing, to coverage’s. The consumers that understand this, get the most for their insurance dollar.
What else would you like to know? Submit questions to steve@stevewhiteinsurance.com
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“Steve is an excellent agent. If you’re looking for an agent who will take the time to make sure your properly covered, he is the best choice. He is knowledgeable on the elements of “what ifs” that come with insurance, you can trust Steve will know the answers or take the time to find out. He is friendly, professional, and will ensure he’s offering you the best options to protect your family or business.”
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“I’ve worked with Steve for 6 years and he’s always been proactive shopping rates to save my family money on home and auto insurance. I now have several friends that are working with him as well. Highly recommend his services.”
“We have been doing business with Steve for a number of years. He provides excellent, personal customer service and is very responsive when we contact him. Every year he shops for the best coverages at the best prices for our auto and homeowners insurance. When we have questions, he explains everything thoroughly and handles any dealings with the actual insurance company for us.<br>Steve is a nice guy and very knowledgeable about insurance.”
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Editorial standards
Written and reviewed by Steve White, Owner, NPN License#: 19284005, Steve White Insurance Group.
Steve White is an experienced independent insurance agent specializing in personalized coverage solutions, risk evaluation, and multi‑carrier underwriting. He operates stevewhiteinsurance.com, serving clients across Highland Village and the greater DFW area with fast, precise, and highly structured guidance. His expertise includes home, auto, commercial, and specialty insurance lines, with a focus on clarity, efficiency, and long‑term protection strategies. Outside of his insurance practice, Steve is deeply involved in youth baseball, fishing, travel planning, and cooking. He is known for a direct, fast‑paced communication style and a preference for organized, actionable workflows.
Published September 22, 2026. See our editorial process. How we use AI.