By SIA of NC | 4 min read | Published August 4th, 2025
The insurance marketplace is beginning to shift again, and independent agents are seeing signs of opportunity. After a period of tightening due to the hard market, the carrier appointment process is slowly opening back up. Independent carriers are cautiously seeking growth and evaluating which agents are positioned to help them reach their goals.
As profitability improves for many carriers in 2025, underwriting restrictions are easing, and the focus is returning to expansion. But the process isn’t free-for-all—appointments are being extended deliberately and strategically.
Why Carriers Are Appointing Again
After years of conservative growth strategies, carriers are starting to see positive results from their underwriting adjustments. With improved profitability, they’re once again pursuing new agency partners. However, this isn’t a return to the “wild west” days of easy appointments. Instead, it’s a calculated approach.
Carriers are evaluating whether an agency:
- Aligns with their preferred classes of business
- Has sufficient quote and bind flow
- Is willing to promote carrier-specific initiatives, like telematics programs
The goal is mutual success—and that requires the right match between agency and carrier.
What Agencies Need to Demonstrate
To secure a direct appointment, agencies must show they are more than just open for business. Carriers want to see evidence of investment and intentionality. That includes:
- Targeted business plans focused on relevant lines
- Participation in carrier growth programs
- A willingness to implement technology or tools that support underwriting efficiency
This level of engagement signals that an agency is prepared to grow profitably, not just rapidly.
The Value of Access Plus
Independent agencies affiliated with SIA of NC have an added advantage. The Access Plus division provides the chance to test carrier competitiveness before committing to a full appointment. This creates a proving ground where:
- Agencies can demonstrate production capabilities
- Carriers can evaluate fit based on actual performance
- Both sides can move forward with confidence
As carriers look to reengage, Access Plus members often move to the front of the line because they’ve already built credibility.
What It Means for New Agencies
For those thinking about launching an independent agency, the reopening of the carrier appointment process is good news. It means more options, more competitive access, and fewer delays in going to market. While securing appointments still requires intentional planning, the door is no longer closed.
If you’re serious about building your agency, now is the time to align with carrier expectations and leverage programs like Access Plus to gain traction quickly.
Final Thoughts: Seize the Momentum in 2025
The carrier appointment process is shifting, and opportunity is returning for independent agents ready to take it. While carriers are moving cautiously, they are moving. With the right strategy, support, and partnerships, your agency can secure the appointments needed to compete and grow.
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