1. Be Informed

Talk to friends and family. Ask the people you trust about which companies they like and whether they've shopped recently themselves. Also ask how they were treated when they had a claim. In the end, that's more important than saving money. Consider the agency, the availability of agents and their reputation. You can find out what others are saying about us under our testimonial section.

Have all of your information ready. Review and have your present policy available for a quote. The Declaration page will have most of the information about you, what you are insuring and the specific coverage provided by your policy. Delays in quotes are caused by not having all of the information to complete the quote. Social Security numbers, specific information about the vehicle (i.e., VIN numbers, amount of mileage usage, number of cylinders), construction details of the home (i.e., ground floor square footage, type and age of the electrical, plumbing, and roof) bank information if involved in financing, and personal information of others being insured (i.e., Date of birth, Social Security number).

2. Comparison Shop

30 to 45 days prior to the renewal date of your current policy is an ideal time to shop. You can learn about the coverage options you have and your choice of companies without the pressure of making a quick decision. This also avoids a “gap” in coverage which can be interpreted by potential insurance companies as a high risk factor.

If your situation changes. We recommend modifying your policy when your insurance needs change. Many shop around just for rate savings, but savings isn’t the same as service. When you have a claim, you want someone to be there for you. Miller-Lewis Insurance Agency is there to help when you are shopping, helping you to select the proper coverage to meet your specific needs and your budget.

Use the internet. You can find a wealth of information on the internet. But we have yet to meet a web site that listens to you. You will find that some sites connect you with a representative as part of the on line experience, but you may never speak to the same person ever again. The Miller-Lewis Insurance Agency provides an agent that is assigned to you to help you from start to finish. They help to complete your application and discuss your choices of companies, the discounts they offer and the coverage available to you. It’s a difference online offers can’t match.

3. Compare Quotes

Match the limits and deductibles. Be sure that you're getting a quote for exactly the same amount of coverage with the same deductibles when you shop around. When quotes are made and the policies do not match, you are in essence comparing apples to oranges. If there are minor differences, be sure you know what they are.

Adjust the limits and / or deductibles. Adjustments in your policy can change your rate. Instead of playing around with limits and deductibles, consider what you are willing to pay when you have a claim. Raising the deductible (what you pay first before insurance) and lowering the limit (The amount that the insurance company stops paying for) will lower your rates, but will require you to pay more when you have a claim. Increasing the limit and decreasing the deductible will increase your rates, but will have the insurance company picking up more of the cost at the time of a claim. You need to find a balance between the two that gives you the coverage and rate you feel comfortable with.

Make sure you have actual quotes and not just an estimate. Some companies offer “quick quotes” and “ballpark” estimates often times based on little or incomplete information. You will find that these are not really worth your time. You can't buy an estimate—and most likely the rate will change. That is why Miller-Lewis Insurance Agency only provides in depth quoting. We evaluate your needs and review your information so that when you receive a quote, you can be sure it is from a dependable highly rated company. There are no surprises when you receive a quote from us. In fact we take the time to make sure you understand your coverage.

Narrow your choices and compare the details. You'll want to compare rates, coverage and payment plans, as well as information about the reputation and financial stability of the companies you are considering. If you don't recognize a company, research them online.


4. Follow up with Miller- Lewis Insurance Agency

Know where you stand. Your agent that you received your quote from is the agent who will make sure that your application has been filled out correctly and submitted to the companies we represent. Your agent will be with you every step of the way. We represent you in this process and look out for your best interest. We have taken the time to identify and insure those things that are important in your life, because to us, this isn’t just about the sale, working the numbers to generate profits, or adding another policy to the books. This is about you receiving the service, protection and assistance you deserve from the moment you request a quote, to the time that you choose us as your agency for your insurance needs. It’s worth it to receive true value rather than just a lower price.