Which type of agent typically has a wider variety of insurance products to sell?

Independent agents typically have a wider variety of insurance products to sell because they are not tied to a single insurance company. Instead, they represent multiple insurers, which allows them to offer a broad range of policies and coverage options to their clients. This flexibility enables them to find the best fit for their customers' needs from a diverse selection of options.

In contrast, captive agents work exclusively for one insurance company, limiting their ability to provide varied product offerings. Broker agents may also have access to multiple insurers, but their role often focuses on acting as intermediaries rather than direct sales agents. Employee agents, who are salaried employees of an insurance company, similarly face restrictions in terms of the products they can sell. This structural difference ensures that independent agents can cater to a wider array of insurance needs.