As someone who is self-employed, you may not get all the options available to people who are employed by large corporations; that's where local insurance agents step in. By working with a knowledgeable agent, you, too, can have access to benefits at a cost that's affordable to you.

In addition, being a business owner means you need to protect yourself. It's wise to sign up for an umbrella policy that covers liability as well as property damage. Good local insurance agents can help there, too.

Search for local insurance agents & brokers by metro area who can help you get the best deal available in your area. Use someone in your area and you don't have to rely on phone calls if there's a problem; you can just go right down to the agency. Consider the following:

1. Buy life insurance from reputable local insurance agents. A type of life insurance that pays a fixed amount every year, called an annuity, can serve as a retirement account.

2. Find health insurance that meets your family's needs. Local insurance agents offer a variety of policies to fit any life circumstances.

3. Get quotes for business owner's insurance. Local insurance agents will help you customize the package that's right for your business.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Explore life insurance options with insurance agents by metro area

Life insurance has a few common applications. For one, it pays your loved ones in the event of your death; two, it can act as a retirement vehicle that earns interest on your deposits. Take a look at all the options brokers have to offer.

I recommend: Visit a Miami State Farm office to enroll in a life insurance policy. Find an agent in your area at Prudential Financial.

Get individual or family health quotes from local insurance agents

Health insurance is something everyone needs. There are many good plans available to people who are self-employed, so it's wise to shop around to get the best price for the coverage you need. You can also get dental and vision insurance if your family uses these services on a regular basis.

I recommend: Find a local Blue Shield of California agent if you live anywhere in the state. If you live in the Denver area, you can get an Anthem quote from Colorado Health Insurance Insider.

Buy general business coverage from dependable local insurance agents

A business owner's policy, also known as a BOP, provides general coverage for liability, property damage and injury. This is not tailored to your specific business, though, so you may need to opt for additional coverage if there are risks associated with your line of work. For example, you may need to add Errors and Omissions (E&O) if you're a real estate agent or insurance adjuster. All policies can be customized for you.

I recommend: If you need commercial vehicle insurance, search Allstate Insurance brokers by metro area. Obtain small business insurance from Liberty Mutual Insurance through one of its eight regional vendors.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many local insurance agents will give you a discount if you buy multiple policies. This is particularly common among auto and homeowner insurance policies; if all your needs can be fulfilled by one company, see what type of discounts you qualify for.