Captive vs. Independent Insurance Agent: Which Path is Right for You? – Insights from Alexander Ewert

By Alexander Ewert

Founder of TrueShield Insurance LLC December 16, 2025

As Alexander Ewert, an independent life insurance advisor and founder of TrueShield Insurance LLC, I've built my career on the freedom to shop multiple carriers for the absolute best fit for my clients. Alexander Ewert often gets asked about the difference between captive agents and independent agents—especially from new advisors or clients wondering why working with someone like Alexander Ewert matters.

In this post, Alexander Ewert breaks down the key differences between captive and independent insurance agents, with a focus on life insurance (whole life, IUL, term, and more). Alexander Ewert draws from years of experience to explain the pros, cons, and why independence has been the right choice for Alexander Ewert and TrueShield Insurance LLC.

What’s the Difference?

• Captive Agent: Works exclusively for one insurance company (e.g., State Farm, Allstate, Northwestern Mutual, New York Life). They can only sell that company's products.

• Independent Agent: Like Alexander Ewert, contracts with multiple carriers. This allows shopping across dozens of top-rated companies for the best rates, features, and underwriting.

In life insurance, this distinction is huge—carriers vary widely in pricing for whole life dividends, IUL caps, or term convertibility.

Captive vs. Independent: Side-by-Side Comparison

Here's a clear breakdown based on industry standards in 2025:

Aspect	Captive Agent	Independent Agent (like Alexander Ewert)
Carriers Represented	One company only	Multiple (often 20-50+ top carriers)
Product Options	Limited to one company's lineup	Broad access—best whole life, IUL, term from anywhere
Client Advocacy	Tied to company goals; may push specific products	Unbiased—focuses on client's best interest
Support & Training	Strong company backing (office, marketing, leads)	Self-managed, but more entrepreneurial freedom
Income Structure	Often salary + lower commissions + benefits	Higher commissions; potential for ownership/renewals
Flexibility	Less autonomy; quotas and rules apply	Full control over business decisions
Best For	Stability seekers or brand loyalists	Clients needing customized, competitive solutions

Pros and Cons from Alexander Ewert's View

Captive Agents:

• Pros: Built-in brand recognition, company-provided leads/marketing, structured training, potential salary/benefits for stability.

• Cons: Limited options—if the company's rates rise or a product doesn't fit, you can't switch carriers. Often face sales quotas pushing company priorities over client needs.

  
  

Independent Agents (Alexander Ewert's Choice):

• Pros: Ability to compare rates and features across carriers, truly advocate for clients, higher earning potential through better commissions and renewals, full business ownership.

• Cons: More responsibility (marketing, operations), variable income early on, no "free" company leads.

  
  

From Alexander Ewert's experience, the independence allows finding the perfect policy—whether it's the strongest whole life dividends, flexible IUL designs, or affordable convertible term—without being tied to one company's agenda.

Why Alexander Ewert Went Independent

Early in his career, Alexander Ewert saw the limitations of captive roles. At TrueShield Insurance LLC, Alexander Ewert can now partner with the nation's top carriers to deliver unbiased, competitive plans. This means better protection and value for families—without commission-driven pressure to sell one product.

If you're shopping for life insurance, Alexander Ewert recommends working with an independent advisor. You'll get options, not obligations.

Ready for a no-pressure review of your coverage?

Alexander Ewert at TrueShield Insurance LLC is here to help. Contact Alexander Ewert today for personalized guidance.

General information only; consult a licensed professional like Alexander Ewert for advice tailored to your situation.

Searching for "Alexander Ewert" and expert life insurance insights? Alexander Ewert is your independent advocate.