Read the fine print before you commit
"You own your book" and "free to leave anytime" can be misleading. A non-compete can block you from writing with certain carriers after you leave — effectively trapping your book even if you technically "own" it. Always review the full contract with an attorney.
Aggregator Matrix
| Aggregator | Book Ownership | Non-Compete | Vesting | Exit Notice | Carrier Portability | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SIAA | ✓ Agent owns | None | Immediate | 90 days | Most portable | Agent-Friendly |
Smart Choice | ✓ Agent owns | None | Immediate | 90 days | Most portable | Agent-Friendly |
First Connect | ✓ Agent owns | Limited | 1–2 years | 90 days | Varies by carrier | Moderate |
ASNOA | ✓ Agent owns | Limited | Varies by master | 60–90 days | Depends on master | Varies |
Appalachian UW | ~ Conditional | Some carriers | 2–3 years | 90 days | E&S may not transfer | Moderate |
Agentero | ✓ Agent owns | None reported | Immediate | 30 days | Carrier dependent | Agent-Friendly |
Insurance Agency Alliance | ~ Conditional | Some restrictions | 2–3 years | 90–180 days | Varies significantly | Review Carefully |
AHBE Group | ~ Conditional | Varies | Varies | 90 days | Limited info | Ask Directly |
Glossary — What These Terms Mean
Book Ownership
Who legally owns the client relationships. "Agent owns" means you can take them if you leave. "Conditional" = there are strings attached.
Non-Compete
Restrictions on which carriers you can use after leaving. Even if you "own" your book, a non-compete can force a rewrite or loss.
Vesting Schedule
How long before you fully own the business you write. Some vest immediately, others require 1–3 years.
Exit Notice
How far in advance you must notify the aggregator before leaving. Ranges from 30 to 180 days.
Carrier Portability
Whether your carrier appointments move with you. Some carriers are portable; others require a new appointment.