MGA (Managing General Agent) Definition

A Managing General Agent (MGA) is a specialized type of insurance agent or broker who has been granted authority by an insurance company to perform various functions typically handled by the insurer. These functions can include underwriting, policy issuance, claims handling, and premium collection. MGAs act as intermediaries between insurance carriers and retail agents or brokers, leveraging their expertise to manage certain aspects of the insurance process.

MGAs have significant autonomy and often possess deep knowledge of specific insurance markets or products. They can tailor policies to meet the unique needs of their clients and provide more flexible and responsive service compared to standard insurance carriers. This specialized role allows MGAs to efficiently manage niche or complex insurance lines that might be outside the typical scope of standard insurers. The relationship between an MGA and an insurance company is governed by a contract that outlines the extent of the MGA’s authority and responsibilities. 

This arrangement benefits insurance companies by allowing them to expand their reach and market presence without directly managing all aspects of the insurance process. For clients and retail agents, working with an MGA often means access to specialized products and expert advice, enhancing the overall value and effectiveness of their insurance coverage.