Life Insurance Carrier Appointments: A Practical Checklist
Published by Agent First Contracts
Before you start selling for a carrier, confirm that your license is active in the client’s state, the carrier has approved you to sell the product, and you have completed any training it requires. Agent First’s contracting team can help you check what is still needed. If you are unsure whether you can submit business, ask the contracting team before taking an application.
This is practical information, not legal advice. Always follow your state's insurance department and each carrier's current instructions.
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Start with your license
- Hold an active life insurance license in your resident state
- Add non-resident licenses for any other state where you plan to sell
- Check that your name and address match across your license records and contracting paperwork
Contracting vs carrier approval vs appointment
Submitting contracting paperwork through an agency starts the process. The carrier then reviews and approves you. In states that require it, the carrier also appoints you with the state. Some carriers require their own product or compliance training before you can sell. Each step is separate, and each can vary by carrier and state.
Documents to have ready
- License numbers and states, and your National Producer Number
- Errors and omissions (E&O) coverage details, if the carrier requires it
- Banking details for commission deposits
- Tax identification details
- Answers to background questions on the contracting forms
- Any training certificates the carrier asks for
Existing hierarchy and release questions
If you're already contracted with a carrier through another agency, you may need a release before moving that carrier, or the carrier may have rules about how long you must wait. Ask before you submit.
- Which carriers am I currently contracted with, and through whom?
- Does any carrier I want require a release or a waiting period?
- What happens to my existing book and renewals if I move?
Before your first solicitation
- Confirm in writing that you are approved and appointed where required for that carrier and state
- Confirm which products you're authorized to sell
- Complete any carrier-required training
- Have access to the carrier's current applications and agent portal
- Don't solicit or write business for a carrier until you're ready to sell with it
Next steps with Agent First
Frequently asked questions
How long does a carrier appointment take?
It varies by carrier, state and how complete your paperwork is. Ask the carrier or agency for current timing.
Can I sell once I've submitted contracting paperwork?
No. Wait until you've confirmed approval, any required appointment and training for that carrier and state.
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