Best insurance aggregator for new agents

For most brand-new independent agents, the most accessible starting points are Smart Choice (no upfront fees), SIAA (the largest network, with structured onboarding), First Connect (digital, no volume minimums), Darkhorse (real training and mentorship), and Iroquois (no upfront fee). When you’re starting out, carrier access matters more than squeezing the last point of commission — you can renegotiate economics later; you can’t sell policies without markets.

What actually matters when you’re starting out

• Access over economics. A 2–4% override is a fair price for appointments you couldn’t get alone. Optimize the split once you have a book to leverage.
• Exit terms. The contract you sign at year zero decides what leaving costs at year five. You want your name on the book — read which aggregators have the best contract.
• Training and support. This is where networks like Darkhorse and SIAA earn their keep for first-timers.

What to avoid as a new agent

Long lock-ins, vague book-ownership language, and fee stacks you can’t model. Before signing anything, run the numbers in the aggregator cost calculator and read the contract red-flags guide. And know the alternative: some carriers do appoint newer agents directly — see which carriers give direct appointments.

FAQ

Which insurance aggregator should I join as a new agent?

The most accessible for new agents are Smart Choice (no upfront fees), SIAA (largest network, structured onboarding), First Connect (digital, no minimums), Darkhorse (training-focused), and Iroquois (no upfront fee). Prioritize carrier access, exit terms, and training over squeezing the best split.

Do new insurance agents need an aggregator?

Usually, yes. Most carriers won’t appoint a brand-new agency directly, so a network is the fastest path to markets. A few carriers are exceptions — Progressive is the most commonly cited direct appointment for newer agents.

How much does it cost to join an insurance aggregator?

Typical networks charge a 2–4% commission override; some charge monthly fees or startup fees instead, and a few (Smart Choice, Iroquois) advertise no upfront cost. Model the true cost before signing.