
When carriers request commissions back: understanding chargebacks, contracts and agent protections
In the world of insurance sales, few things surprise independent agents more than a commission chargeback—especially when it’s requested years after the original transaction. While these occurrences may seem arbitrary or unfair, they often are rooted in the fine print...

ATVs are a lot of fun: make sure you ride safely
It’s always fun to go off-roading—especially on an all-terrain vehicle. Feeling the wind against your body, the power of the machine and breezing through the countryside or a designated trail makes for a fun afternoon, especially with fellow riders. However, when...

Weekly Dispatch: July 24, 2025
New report from identity theft nonprofit indicates an increase of data compromises in first half of 2025. The New Hampshire Insurance Department releases its latest homeowners insurance market report. The New York State Department of Financial Services approved a May application for an overall loss cost decrease of 13.2%. Plus, you can read about state-specific industry news, technical resources, education opportunities, upcoming events and information you may have missed in this issue of the Weekly Dispatch.

N.Y.: Revised WC loss costs, effective Oct. 1
In May, an application for an overall loss cost decrease of 13.2% was submitted to the New York State Department of Financial Services by the New York Compensation Insurance Rating Board. The NYDFS approved the application as filed with an effective date of Wednesday,...

As you get around this summer … protect your classic car
Don’t get bugged driving up and down the same old strip. If your car has been featured in a Beach Boys’ song, it could be considered a classic car—provided it has its original design and specifications. This means you could be driving around in style this summer....

Weekly Dispatch: July 17, 2025
NAIC issues its 2023 auto insurance report. New report finds insured hurricane loses increase by 50% under a two degrees Celsius warming scenario. Connecticut activates extreme hot weather protocols. Flash floods hit New Jersey, New York and Vermont. Plus, you can read about state-specific industry news, compliance issues, advocacy updates, technical resources, accolades, education opportunities, upcoming events and information you may have missed in this issue of the Weekly Dispatch.

Become a trusted member of your local community as a new business owner
Starting a business doesn’t just mean putting your name on the map. It means showing up with presence, not just signage. It means listening before speaking, giving before asking, and finding natural ways to embed your work into the rhythm of your local community. If...

Turning honest feedback into agency growth
Answer this one honestly: Does your agency actively collect and act on feedback from customers and employees? If the answer is no, you’re not alone. Some independent agents gather enormous volumes of feedback, but they fail to follow through. Others shy away from...

Modern, caring and strategic onboarding for long-term success
Onboarding is your first real opportunity to connect people to your mission, model your values, and build trust with new hires. When done right, it aligns talent and culture while setting the foundation for long-term retention. However, a weak onboarding system...

Weekly Dispatch: July 10, 2025
California and Texas hit by costly, deadly natural disasters. PIA priorities passed in budget reconciliation bill. Connecticut Insurance Department issues new bulletins: here’s how they may affect you. Registration is live for two NJYIP and NY-YIP events later this month. Plus, you can read about state-specific industry news, compliance issues, advocacy updates, technical resources, education opportunities, upcoming events and information you may have missed in this issue of the Weekly Dispatch.