When you’re looking for a Medicare plan, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You’ve likely seen big names like SelectQuote and Policygenius, which both promise to simplify the process. While they seem similar on the surface, their business models are quite different. So, what is SelectQuote insurance? They are a broker that uses a phone-based, agent-driven process to find you a policy. This article puts the policygenius vs selectquote comparison into focus, helping you understand if their approach is the right fit for your healthcare needs, so you can feel confident in your choice.
Key Takeaways
- They’re a Broker, Not an Insurer: Remember that SelectQuote is an agency that shops for plans on your behalf. This saves you time by letting you compare multiple quotes at once, but your options are limited to the insurance companies they partner with.
- Expect an Agent-Led Process: The core of their service is speaking with a licensed agent for personalized quotes and guidance. While this direct support is helpful, be prepared for follow-up calls, as this is a common point of customer feedback.
- Weigh Convenience Against Specialized Expertise: SelectQuote offers a wide range of insurance products, making it a convenient choice if you need multiple types of coverage. For complex needs like Medicare, consider if you prefer their broad approach or the focused knowledge of a dedicated Medicare specialist.
So, What Exactly is SelectQuote?
If you’ve been researching insurance options, you’ve likely come across the name SelectQuote. They are one of the larger, more visible insurance agencies out there, so it’s smart to understand exactly what they do and how they operate before picking up the phone. In simple terms, SelectQuote is not an insurance company itself. Instead, it’s an agency that works with a network of different insurance carriers. Their goal is to help you compare plans and find coverage that fits your needs. Let’s take a closer look at the company, the products they offer, and the role their agents play in the process.
Who’s Behind the SelectQuote Name?
SelectQuote is an agency that connects people like you directly with insurance products from various companies. Think of them as a marketplace or a broker. They operate as a direct-to-consumer platform, meaning you work with them from start to finish, rather than going to each insurance company individually. This model is designed to simplify the shopping experience by gathering quotes from their partner carriers and allowing you to see multiple options in one place. It’s important to remember they are the intermediary, not the company that will ultimately provide your insurance coverage.
What Insurance Policies Do They Offer?
SelectQuote has been in the insurance business for a long time, since 1985. They offer a pretty wide range of policies, which is part of their appeal. You can work with them to find life, auto, and home insurance. For those of us focused on retirement planning, they also offer Medicare insurance plans. This means they can help you explore options for Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement (Medigap), and prescription drug plans. While they cover a lot of ground, our review will concentrate on their Medicare services to help you decide if they are the right fit for your healthcare needs.
What Can a SelectQuote Agent Do for You?
The core of SelectQuote’s service is its team of licensed insurance agents. When you contact them, you’ll be connected with an agent who can walk you through the process. Their job is to gather your information, understand your needs, and present you with quotes from the carriers they represent. According to SelectQuote, their agents provide real-time support tailored to your situation. The idea is that you get personalized guidance to help you feel confident about your choice. This one-on-one support can be helpful, especially when you’re trying to sort through the details of different plans and find one that works for your budget.
How Does Getting Insurance with SelectQuote Work?
Shopping for insurance can feel like a huge undertaking, but SelectQuote aims to simplify it. Their entire process is built around connecting you with a licensed agent who can help you compare plans from different insurance companies all in one place. This saves you the time and hassle of researching and contacting each carrier on your own. Let’s walk through what you can expect step-by-step, from your first phone call to what happens after you’ve chosen a policy.
What Information Should You Have Ready?
To get started, you’ll have a conversation with a licensed insurance agent. They can give you a personalized, accurate quote in just a few minutes over the phone. To do this, they’ll need some basic information from you. Be prepared to share details about your general health, your lifestyle, and what kind of coverage you’re looking for. This initial conversation is key, as it allows the agent to find plans that are actually a good fit for your specific circumstances. The more accurate your information is, the better they can match you with the right policy.
What to Expect From Your Call with an Agent
When you speak with a SelectQuote agent, their main goal is to help you feel confident in your decision. They offer real-time support tailored to your situation. Instead of just giving you a list of prices, they will walk you through the available options, explaining the differences between plans and carriers. This guidance is especially helpful when you’re trying to balance coverage with cost. The agent can answer your questions and help you find a policy that works for both your health needs and your budget, so you don’t have to sort through all the fine print alone.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Policy?
One of the biggest advantages of using a service like SelectQuote is the efficiency. The process is designed to be quick, allowing you to compare quotes from many trusted insurance carriers in a matter of minutes. Because you’re not starting from scratch with each company, this streamlined approach can significantly shorten the time it takes to find and secure a policy. For many people, this means going from confused to covered much faster than they would on their own, which is a major relief when you’re trying to get your insurance squared away.
You’ve Bought a Policy—Now What?
The support from SelectQuote doesn’t end once you’ve purchased a plan. After you’re enrolled, they continue to offer assistance to help you understand the details of your policy. They provide ongoing support and guidance to make sure you can make informed decisions about your coverage long-term. If you have questions about your benefits, need to review your plan, or just want to confirm a detail, you can reach out to them for help. This continued relationship ensures you have a resource to turn to as your needs change over time.
Breaking Down SelectQuote’s Insurance Plans
SelectQuote acts as an insurance broker, which means they don’t issue the policies themselves. Instead, they connect you with a wide range of insurance companies. Their goal is to help you compare different plans and find one that fits your needs and budget. This model allows them to offer a variety of insurance products, from life and health to home and auto. By working with multiple carriers, they provide a broader view of the market than you might get from a single insurance company.
The company’s agents are licensed to sell insurance and are trained to help you through the process of choosing a policy. They can answer your questions, explain the details of different plans, and help you complete your application. Because they offer policies from many well-known insurers, you have the opportunity to see how different options stack up against each other in one place. Let’s look at the main types of insurance you can find through SelectQuote.
Term Life Insurance Through SelectQuote
Term life insurance is one of SelectQuote’s core offerings. The company states that it “pioneered the way consumers shopped for term life insurance” by providing unbiased price comparisons from trusted insurance carriers. This simplifies the process of finding a policy that works for you. Term life insurance provides coverage for a specific period, like 10, 20, or 30 years, and is often a straightforward and affordable way to provide a financial safety net for your loved ones. An agent can help you determine how much coverage you need and which company offers the best rates for your situation.
Comparing Their Medicare Plans
For those approaching or over 65, understanding Medicare is a top priority. SelectQuote works with a number of private insurance companies that offer Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Medicare Part C. These plans are an alternative to Original Medicare and often include prescription drug coverage along with other benefits like dental and vision. According to SelectQuote, their agents help consumers understand the benefits and coverage available so they can find a plan that works for them. They can also help you explore Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and prescription drug plans (Part D).
Home and Auto Insurance Coverage
Beyond life and health insurance, SelectQuote can also help you protect your property. They offer a service to compare home and auto insurance policies. Their process involves shopping for policies from highly rated auto insurance companies to find coverage that fits your budget. This can be especially helpful if you’re looking to bundle your home and auto policies, which can sometimes lead to discounts. By comparing multiple quotes at once, you can save time and feel more confident that you’re getting a competitive price for the coverage you need.
What Else Does SelectQuote Cover?
SelectQuote positions itself as a convenient place to shop for many of your insurance needs. By offering life, auto, home, and Medicare insurance plans, they cover many of the most common types of protection people look for. This makes it a versatile option if you prefer to work with a single service for various types of coverage. Having one point of contact can simplify the process of managing your policies and making sure you don’t have gaps in your coverage. Their agents can discuss your overall insurance needs to see where you might benefit from additional protection.
SelectQuote vs. Policygenius and Other Competitors
When you’re looking for insurance, it’s smart to shop around. SelectQuote is a well-known name, but it’s just one of many services that can help you find a plan. Each company has its own strengths, whether it’s a specific type of insurance, a user-friendly website, or a focus on personalized support. Understanding these differences can help you decide which service is the best fit for your needs. Think of it like choosing a grocery store. Some are huge superstores with a massive selection, while others are smaller specialty shops that excel in one area. Similarly, some insurance services offer a little bit of everything, while others specialize.
The insurance marketplace can feel crowded, with ads on TV and mailers arriving daily. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices. That’s why comparing these services side-by-side is so helpful. We’ll look at what each company focuses on, the kind of experience they offer, and who they might be best for. This isn’t about finding a single ‘best’ option, but rather the best option for your specific situation. Let’s walk through how SelectQuote stacks up against some of its main competitors so you can get a clearer picture of the landscape and make an informed decision.
How SelectQuote Stacks Up
SelectQuote has built a strong reputation, particularly in the life insurance market, but it also offers Medicare, home, and auto insurance. The company operates as a broker, meaning its agents help you compare plans from various insurance carriers to find a match. They are often recognized for their customer service and a straightforward process that connects you with a real person. If you’re looking for a service that can potentially bundle different types of insurance and prefer guidance from an agent over a purely do-it-yourself approach, SelectQuote is a solid contender. Their model is built on providing agent-assisted comparisons.
How eHealth Compares
If your primary focus is health insurance, eHealth is a name you’ll likely come across. The company specializes in Medicare plans and individual health insurance. Their platform is designed to make comparing health plans simple and clear, which is a huge plus when you’re trying to sort through deductibles, copays, and networks. While both services are highly rated, the main difference is focus. Think of eHealth as a health insurance specialist, whereas SelectQuote is more of a generalist with a strong background in life insurance.
How GoHealth Compares
GoHealth is another major player that concentrates on health insurance, particularly Medicare plans. Much like SelectQuote, it is known for providing strong customer service and connecting you with licensed agents to walk you through your options. The experience can feel quite similar, as both companies aim to simplify the insurance shopping process with professional guidance. However, if you’re also in the market for life insurance, you might find that SelectQuote has a broader range of options in that specific category, according to some company comparisons.
How HealthMarkets Compares
HealthMarkets offers a wide variety of products, including health, life, and supplemental insurance. What sets them apart is their extensive network of local agents who provide personalized, face-to-face service. If you prefer sitting down with someone in your community to discuss your options, HealthMarkets is structured to provide that experience. While SelectQuote offers agent guidance over the phone, HealthMarkets emphasizes its local presence. This can be a deciding factor if you value in-person support over the convenience of a phone call.
How Policygenius Compares
Policygenius operates as an online insurance marketplace where you can compare quotes for life, home, auto, and disability insurance. It’s especially well-regarded for its easy-to-use website and excellent educational resources that help you understand what you’re buying. The main distinction is in the service model; Policygenius is great for those who are comfortable doing their own research online. While they have agents available, the experience is more self-directed. A Policygenius vs SelectQuote comparison often comes down to how much hands-on help you want.
Service Models: Online vs. Phone
The biggest difference between SelectQuote and Policygenius often comes down to how you prefer to shop. If you enjoy doing your own research and comparing options online, Policygenius is likely a better fit. Their platform is designed for a more self-directed experience, allowing you to review quotes and information at your own pace. On the other hand, if you would rather talk through your options with a person from the start, SelectQuote’s model is built for that. They are generally better for people who prefer to talk to an agent on the phone for more guidance. It’s a choice between a digital-first approach and a conversation-first approach.
Customer Ratings and Reputation
Customer reviews can offer a helpful look into a company’s service. Policygenius generally receives very positive feedback from customers. According to one review site, an impressive 97% of their reviews are 5-star, with people often praising the smooth online process and helpful agents. In contrast, feedback for SelectQuote is more mixed. While many customers have good experiences, some reviews are quite negative. One source even highlights a review that calls the company “crooks with shady business practices.” It’s important to weigh these different experiences when making your decision, as they can reflect the consistency of the service you might receive.
Variety of Insurance Products Offered
Your choice might also depend on what kind of insurance you need. SelectQuote offers a solid range of common policies, including life, auto, and home insurance, making it a convenient option if you’re looking to cover these key areas. However, Policygenius provides a much wider variety of products. In addition to the basics, they also offer health, disability, and even pet insurance. If you have more diverse insurance needs or want to explore less common types of coverage, Policygenius’s broader selection gives you more to work with. This makes them a more comprehensive marketplace for all-around insurance shopping.
A Look at the Policygenius Business Model
It’s helpful to understand how these services work behind the scenes. Policygenius acts as an online marketplace that helps you compare free insurance quotes and buy policies online. They aren’t an insurance company themselves; instead, they function as your helper and advocate throughout the process. The best part is that you don’t pay anything extra to use their service. They earn a commission from the insurance company you choose, so their incentive is to help you find the right fit. This model allows you to shop the market efficiently without worrying about hidden fees or markups, making the process transparent and user-focused.
Why Choose SelectQuote? The Main Advantages
Shopping for insurance can feel like a full-time job. With so many carriers, plans, and confusing terms, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure if you’re making the right choice. This is where a service like SelectQuote comes in. As an insurance comparison agency, their entire model is built around simplifying this process for you. Instead of you having to go out and gather quotes from a dozen different companies, they bring the options directly to you.
The main advantage is having a single point of contact to explore a wide range of policies. This can be especially helpful when you’re looking at something as important as a Medicare or life insurance plan. Their goal is to do the heavy lifting—the research and comparison—so you can focus on choosing the plan that truly fits your life and budget. Let’s walk through some of the specific benefits you can expect when working with them.
Easily Compare Quotes in One Place
One of the biggest draws of using SelectQuote is their ability to gather quotes from multiple insurance companies at once. Their motto, “We Shop. You Save,” sums up their core service pretty well. They partner with a number of highly-rated insurance carriers, which means you get a broader view of the market than you would by just contacting one or two companies on your own. This comparison shopping is key to finding competitive pricing and coverage options that you might have otherwise missed. It streamlines the research phase, presenting you with several possibilities side-by-side so you can make a more informed decision.
Personalized Guidance from Licensed Agents
If you’re tired of trying to figure everything out through online articles and automated chats, talking to a real person can be a relief. When you contact SelectQuote, you’ll be connected with a licensed insurance agent who can answer your specific questions. This personalized support is incredibly valuable. The agent can walk you through the details of different plans, explain what the terms mean, and help you understand the fine print. This one-on-one guidance helps ensure you’re not just picking the cheapest plan, but the one that offers the right protection for your needs and gives you peace of mind.
How You Can Save Both Time and Money
Let’s be honest, no one wants to spend weeks calling different insurance providers and repeating the same information over and over. By consolidating the search process, SelectQuote can save you a significant amount of time and hassle. They’ve been shopping for insurance policies for customers since 1985, so their system is designed for efficiency. Because they lay out competitive offers from various carriers, you also have a better chance of finding a lower premium. Seeing different price points in one place makes it easier to spot a good deal and make a financially sound decision without all the legwork.
Manage Your Policy with Their Online Tools
The support doesn’t necessarily stop once you’ve purchased a policy. SelectQuote provides tools to help you manage your insurance after the fact. While their platform is known for comparing quotes from trusted home and auto insurance carriers, they also offer resources for managing your other policies. This can include a personal account dashboard where you can view your policy details or get help when you need it. Having a centralized place to handle your insurance can simplify things, especially if you have multiple types of coverage. It’s a modern convenience that makes the administrative side of insurance a little less daunting.
A Quick Tour of the SelectQuote Website
SelectQuote’s website is more than just a place to get a quote; it’s a resource hub designed to support you through the insurance shopping process. From initial research to managing your policy long-term, the site offers several tools to help you find and maintain your coverage. While the core of their service involves speaking with a licensed agent, the website provides a solid foundation for getting started and staying organized. It acts as your home base, whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or you’ve been a customer for years.
The site is laid out to be straightforward, which is a relief when you’re dealing with something as complex as insurance. You can find information on different types of plans, get a feel for the company, and prepare yourself before you even pick up the phone. Think of it as your personal library and filing cabinet. You can use it to educate yourself on the basics and then, once you have a policy, keep all your important information in one easy-to-access spot. This combination of digital tools and personal agent support is central to how SelectQuote works. Let’s walk through the key features you’ll find on their site and how you can use them to your advantage.
Getting Your Quote Online
The first thing you’ll likely notice on the SelectQuote site are the online quote tools. These are designed to give you a preliminary estimate based on some basic information. However, for a truly personalized and accurate quote, the process typically moves to a phone call. SelectQuote emphasizes that their agents provide real-time support tailored to your specific situation. A quick conversation with a licensed agent can give you a precise quote in just a few minutes, ensuring the coverage you’re considering fits both your needs and your budget. This approach helps them provide life insurance made simple by combining technology with a human touch.
What’s Inside Your Account Dashboard?
Once you become a customer, you gain access to a personal account dashboard. SelectQuote operates as a technology-enabled platform, and this dashboard is a central part of that experience. It’s a secure online space where you can view your policy details, access important documents, and manage your account information. This feature is especially helpful for keeping everything organized in one place, saving you the hassle of digging through paperwork if you need to review your coverage. It’s a convenient tool that allows you to handle many aspects of your insurance needs efficiently from your own computer.
Finding Answers in Their Resource Center
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by insurance jargon and complex policy details, the educational resources on SelectQuote’s website can be a great help. They provide a library of unbiased articles and guides designed to make the insurance shopping process clearer and more approachable. These resources cover a wide range of topics, from explaining different types of coverage to offering tips on how to choose the right plan. For example, you can find information on understanding life insurance company ratings, which can be crucial when making a decision. Taking some time to read through these guides can help you feel more confident when you speak with an agent.
How to Get Help When You Need It
Knowing you can get support when you need it is essential when choosing an insurance service. SelectQuote makes its customer support team available to assist with any questions or concerns you might have. Whether you need help understanding your policy, making a change, or simply have a question about your bill, you can reach out to their team. They emphasize their commitment to finding you the right coverage at a price that fits your budget, and their support system is a key part of that promise. You can find contact information on their website to get the assistance you need for your specific policy.
What Are Real Customers Saying About SelectQuote?
When you’re trying to decide on an insurance service, hearing from other customers can be incredibly helpful. It gives you a fuller picture of what to expect—both the good and the challenging. SelectQuote has been around for a long time, and over the years, they’ve gathered a lot of feedback. Let’s look at what people are saying, so you can get a balanced view of their service.
What Customers Love
Many customers appreciate SelectQuote for its core promise: “We Shop. You Save.” The main draw is convenience. Instead of you having to call multiple insurance companies, they do the comparison shopping for you across many highly-rated carriers. This can save a significant amount of time and potentially money. People also point to the company’s long history. Having helped families with insurance since 1985, they have a long track record in the industry. For many, this experience provides a sense of trust and reliability, knowing they are working with an established company that has served millions of customers.
Common Customer Complaints
On the other side of the coin, some customers have reported frustrating experiences. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) website shows a pattern of issues related to customer service, billing, and advertising. The most frequent issue mentioned in complaints filed with the BBB is the high volume of sales calls. Many people report receiving multiple unwanted calls a day, even after asking to be removed from call lists or being registered on the National Do Not Call Registry. This aggressive sales approach can be a major drawback for those who prefer to research options at their own pace without feeling pressured.
High Volume of Sales Calls
This is one of the most common pieces of feedback you’ll find when researching SelectQuote. Many customers have shared frustrating experiences with receiving a high number of sales calls. Based on complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau, this seems to be a recurring issue. People report getting multiple calls a day, sometimes even after they’ve asked to be taken off the calling list or have registered with the National Do Not Call Registry. For anyone who prefers to research at their own pace and dislikes feeling pressured, this aggressive sales approach can be a significant downside. It’s something to be prepared for if you decide to request a quote.
Inconsistent Agent Experience
With any large company that employs many agents, your experience can really depend on who you speak with. Some customers rave about their SelectQuote agent, describing them as knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely helpful. Others, however, report feeling rushed or that their specific needs weren’t fully heard. It’s important to remember that SelectQuote agents work as intermediaries, connecting you with plans from their partner insurance companies. This means your choices are limited to their network. If you feel an agent isn’t a good fit, don’t hesitate to ask for someone else or to take a step back. Finding the right Medicare insurance broker is about finding someone who listens and prioritizes your unique situation.
What People Say About the Agents
Feedback on SelectQuote’s agents is often mixed and seems to depend heavily on individual experiences. On one hand, the company emphasizes that its licensed agents provide personalized, real-time support. A quick phone call can get you an accurate quote tailored to your specific needs, which is a big plus if you want direct guidance. Their agents are trained to help you find a suitable plan. However, this agent-driven process is also linked to the complaints about persistent sales calls. While the goal is to be helpful and proactive, the high frequency of contact can feel overwhelming for some. It’s something to be aware of as you consider whether their communication style is a good fit for you.
Smart Shopping: What to Know Before Choosing a Broker
Choosing an insurance broker is about more than just finding a policy; it’s about finding a trusted partner. While large agencies like SelectQuote offer the convenience of comparing multiple carriers at once, it’s important to look deeper to ensure you’re getting the right support for your needs. The right broker will not only help you find a plan but will also be there to assist you long after you’ve enrolled. This is especially true when it comes to Medicare, where your healthcare needs can change from year to year. Before you commit, take the time to ask some key questions and evaluate what you’re truly getting. This will help you feel confident that you have a reliable advocate on your side.
Important Questions to Ask Any Broker
Before you move forward with any broker, it’s wise to have a few questions ready. The answers will tell you a lot about the level of service you can expect. Start by asking, “Will you review my policy with me each year to see if better rates or plans become available?” A proactive broker who offers annual reviews is a valuable asset. Also, inquire about their process for ongoing support. Ask, “Will you be available to help me with administrative tasks, like updating my bank information or helping my family with a claim if needed?” Finally, find out what happens if you don’t qualify for the initial plans they show you. A dedicated broker will work to find other options, not just move on to the next call.
Looking Beyond the Price Tag
It’s easy to focus on the monthly premium, but the lowest price doesn’t always equal the best value. When it comes to Medicare plans, a low premium could hide high deductibles, expensive copays, or a very limited network of doctors. Instead of just looking at the price, consider the total potential cost and the quality of the coverage. Sometimes, paying a little more each month can secure you better customer service from the insurance carrier or provide valuable extra benefits, like comprehensive dental or vision coverage in a Medicare Advantage plan. Make sure you understand the full picture of what you’re paying for, not just the number on the bill.
Who to Call for Help After You’ve Signed Up
Once you’ve enrolled in a plan, it’s important to know who to turn to for help. Your policy is managed by the insurance company itself—they are the ones who will process claims and send you official documents. However, your broker should still play a crucial role as your advocate. A good agent can provide guidance and help you communicate with the insurance company if issues arise. At The Big 65, we believe our job continues long after you’ve signed up. We’re here to answer your questions and help you get the most out of your plan, year after year. Make sure your broker offers this kind of long-term relationship.
How to Know if You’re Getting a Good Deal
There isn’t one single marketplace that is always the cheapest. The price of a plan depends on the insurance company, the type of policy, your location, and other factors. To know if you’re getting a good deal, you have to compare apples to apples. For Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, the benefits for each lettered plan (e.g., Plan G) are standardized, so you can confidently compare based on price and the company’s reputation. For Medicare Advantage plans, you need to look closer. Make sure you’re comparing plans with similar features, including doctor networks, prescription drug formularies, and extra benefits, to truly understand which one offers the best value for your situation.
Final Checks Before Committing to a Policy
Before you finalize your decision, there are a couple of last checks to perform. First, look into the financial strength of the insurance company that will be issuing your policy. You can check ratings from independent agencies like A.M. Best to ensure the company has a strong history of paying claims. This gives you peace of mind that your coverage will be there when you need it. Second, do a final gut check on the broker. Do you feel comfortable with them? Have they answered your questions clearly and without pressure? Choosing a policy is a significant decision, and you should feel confident in both the plan and the person who helped you find it.
Is SelectQuote the right choice for you?
Deciding on an insurance broker is a big step, especially when it comes to something as important as your health and financial security. SelectQuote is a well-known company that can be a convenient tool for comparing policies from multiple carriers at once, which is a huge time-saver. Their model is built on doing the comparison shopping for you, so instead of you having to call five different companies, you can make one call to them. This is an appealing proposition for anyone who feels overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices on the market.
However, convenience doesn’t always mean it’s the perfect fit for everyone’s unique situation, particularly with something as complex as Medicare. The right Medicare plan isn’t just about finding the lowest premium; it’s about ensuring your doctors are in-network, your prescriptions are covered affordably, and the benefits match your health needs now and in the future. To figure out if their service aligns with your personal needs, it helps to look at the complete picture. This means understanding the scope of what they offer, where they operate, how their business model works, and what that means for you as a customer. Let’s walk through a few key points to help you determine if moving forward with SelectQuote is the right move for your Medicare journey.
Understanding the Potential Downsides
First, it’s helpful to know that SelectQuote built its reputation primarily as an agency for term life insurance. While they have expanded into Medicare, auto, and home insurance, their core business has deep roots in life insurance. This is important because a jack-of-all-trades isn’t always a master of one. Additionally, as an insurance agency, SelectQuote only represents the insurance companies they have contracts with. This means you won’t see quotes from every single carrier on the market, only from their partners. If you’re looking for a very specific plan or want to see all possible options, this is a significant limitation to consider.
Limited Selection of Insurance Companies
When you work with an agency like SelectQuote, it’s important to understand that they are a broker, not the insurance company itself. They act as a go-between, connecting you with plans from their network of partner carriers. This is convenient because you can see multiple options in one place without contacting each company individually. However, this also means your choices are confined to the specific insurance companies they have agreements with. You won’t get a view of the entire market, and a plan that might be a better or more affordable fit for you could be offered by a carrier outside of their network. This is a key trade-off to consider: you gain simplicity, but you lose a comprehensive market view.
How Your Personal Information Is Used
To get personalized quotes, you’ll need to provide your contact information. It’s important to be prepared for what comes next. Once you submit your details, you can expect to receive follow-up communication, including phone calls and emails, from SelectQuote agents. As we touched on earlier, a high volume of sales calls is one of the most common complaints from their prospective customers. Your information may also be shared with their insurance partners, who might also contact you directly. This is a standard part of the business model for many online lead-generation services, but it’s something to be aware of if you prefer to do your research without frequent follow-ups.
Is SelectQuote Available Where You Live?
Insurance is highly localized. The plans and carriers available to you depend entirely on your state and even your zip code. Before you invest time in a phone call, it’s a good idea to confirm that SelectQuote is licensed to sell insurance in your state and that they partner with carriers who offer robust Medicare plans where you live. Their promise to shop for the best rates is only effective if they have a strong network of options in your specific area. You can usually find this information on their website or by providing your zip code in their online quote tool.
A Look at the Real Costs Involved
Using SelectQuote’s service won’t cost you anything out of pocket. Like other insurance brokers, their agents are paid a commission by the insurance company when you purchase a policy. This is a standard industry practice. While this means you get their help for free, it’s good to be aware of the model. Because agents are compensated upon a sale, some people may feel a sense of pressure during the process. Knowing this ahead of time can help you feel more prepared and confident in asking questions and taking the time you need to make an unhurried decision.
How to Make Your Final Decision
Ultimately, SelectQuote can be a solid choice if you’re looking for a one-stop shop to compare quotes for several types of insurance and appreciate the convenience of having an agent handle the legwork. They have a long history in the industry and provide access to many well-known carriers. However, for a decision as personal and complex as choosing a Medicare plan, you might prefer a more specialized approach. Consider what matters most to you: the breadth of options from a single source or the in-depth, dedicated expertise of a specialist focused solely on Medicare. You can learn more about the company’s overall mission on their about page.
Related Articles
- Is SelectQuote Reliable for Medicare? An Honest Review – The Big 65 – Medicare Insurance Services
- Is SelectQuote Reliable? An Unbiased 2024 Review – The Big 65 – Medicare Insurance Services
- SelectQuote Review: Is It the Right Choice for You? – The Big 65 – Medicare Insurance Services
- Behind the SelectQuote Promise | Big 65 Reviews It
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SelectQuote an actual insurance company? No, it’s not. Think of SelectQuote as a marketplace or an agency. They don’t create or provide the insurance coverage themselves. Instead, they partner with a network of well-known insurance carriers and act as the go-between, helping you compare different plans from those specific companies.
How does SelectQuote get paid for its service? You don’t pay SelectQuote directly for their help. Their service is free for you to use. Like other insurance brokers, their licensed agents earn a commission from the insurance company you choose when you purchase a policy through them. This is a standard practice in the insurance industry.
Will I see every available Medicare plan if I use SelectQuote? You will only see plans from the insurance companies that SelectQuote has a contract with. While they work with many major carriers, they don’t represent every single one on the market. This means your options will be limited to their network, and you might not get a complete picture of every plan available in your area.
Am I required to buy a policy if I get a quote from an agent? Not at all. Getting a quote is simply a way to gather information. You are under no obligation to purchase a plan after speaking with an agent. It’s perfectly fine to use the conversation to understand your options and then take time to think about your decision without any pressure to enroll.
What’s the difference between a large agency like SelectQuote and a specialized Medicare broker? The main difference comes down to focus. A large agency like SelectQuote often handles many types of insurance, including life, home, and auto, in addition to Medicare. A specialized Medicare broker, on the other hand, concentrates exclusively on Medicare. This allows them to develop deep expertise in the complexities of Medicare plans, networks, and prescription drug coverage, offering a more focused level of guidance.