1.  Make sure the agent or agency you are working with is contracted or has access to lots of life insurance companies.  This is important because all companies are different and offer different rates to different types of people.  Some have price niches, and some even specialize in insuring high risk individuals (or smokers, or whatever).  So having an agent or agency that has access to many companies will increase the odds that you’ll get good rates.

2.  Make sure the agent or agency you are working with has the experience and knowledge to go to work for you.  It’s one thing to have access to many companies. It’s another entirely to have access to many companies AND to understand each company’s underwriting requirements (the rules they use to determine which health class you fit into, which ultimately determines your rates).

One of the best ways to make sure you find an agent or agency that has both of these qualities is to either have someone refer you, or you can try out a couple and see which gets you the best rates.  Also, if you’re applying online, you’ll probably be able to see when you get a quote if they have access to many companies and which ones.

One important thing to remember is that you don’t actually have to pay anyone until you are offered rates.  So if  you want to try out multiple companies or agencies or agents, you can do so.  It doesn’t cost you anything.  That way you can see what each can get you and then pick the policy, company, and life insurance rates that are what you are looking for.