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We are Augustyniak Insurance Group, an independent agency in Jacksonville. We help people switch agencies every week, and most of the mistakes we see are completely avoidable.
If you already know you want to move, call (904) 268-3106. If you want to make sure you do it right, keep reading.
Maybe your premium jumped and your agent said nothing. Maybe you called twice and nobody called back. Maybe you just have a feeling there should be a better way.
Whatever the reason, switching agencies in Florida is simpler than most people think. But doing it right matters. Here are five questions to ask before you make the move.
1. How Many Insurance Companies Does the New Agency Represent?
This is the most important question. If you are leaving a captive agent because they only had one option, make sure you are not moving to another agency with limited access.
An independent agency with access to 20, 40, or 80+ companies can compare your options side by side. That is the whole point of switching. If the new agency only works with 5 or 6 companies, you are trading one limited view for a slightly wider limited view.
2. Will My Current Discounts Transfer?
Some discounts are company-specific. A claims-free discount, loyalty discount, or multi-policy discount with your current company may not exist with a new one.
Ask your new agent to show you a full comparison that accounts for all applicable discounts with the new company. In many cases, the new company's base rate is low enough that even without a loyalty discount, you come out ahead. But verify this before you commit.
3. What Happens to My Current Policy?
If you switch mid-term, your old company will most likely issue a prorated refund for the unused portion of your premium. Your new agent handles the transition and makes sure there is no gap in coverage. On E&S policies, some have minimum earned premiums, so be sure to discuss this with your new agent. Also, NFIP flood policies do not refund premiums once they are renewed, unless it's for very specific reasons.
If you prefer to wait, you can also time the switch to your renewal date. Your new agent can quote you 30 to 60 days before renewal so you have time to compare without rushing.
4. How Does the New Agency Handle Claims?
Ask directly: "When I have a claim, what do I do?" The right answer is some version of "call us first. We will walk you through it, file it with the company, and follow up until it is resolved."
The wrong answer is "call the 800 number on your insurance card."
Claims support is where the real value of an agency shows up. It is easy to sell a policy. Helping a client through a roof leak or a car accident is harder. That is what separates a good agency from an average one. Your agent is paid to do this work. Make sure they actually do it.
5. Will They Review Your Policy Every Year Before Renewal?
This is the question most people forget to ask. A great agency does not just find you a good rate today. They reach out before each renewal, review your coverage and pricing, and recommend the best next step.
That might mean comparing other companies, adjusting deductibles, or confirming your current policy is still the right fit. You should never have to call and ask "can you look at this?" The agency should start that conversation.
For the full guide on what makes a great agency: How to Choose the Best Insurance Agency in Jacksonville, FL.
Do You Need a New Policy or Just a New Agency?
Sometimes you do not need to switch insurance companies at all. If you like your current company but are unhappy with your agency's service, there is another option: an Agent of Record change.
An Agent of Record change moves your existing policy from one agency to another without rewriting the policy. Your company, coverage, and current premium typically stay the same.
It can be a smart option when you want better communication and more proactive service but do not need to shop for a new company right now.
Not every company handles these requests the same way. Some have timing rules or require signed forms. A good agency can tell you whether an AOR change makes sense or whether remarketing your coverage would be the better path.
Ready to Switch? We Make It Easy.
Bring your declarations page. We handle the transition, compare 80+ companies, and make sure there is no gap in coverage.
Call (904) 268-3106 Compare Your Rate Across 80+ Companies Augustyniak Insurance Group · Most quotes come back the same day.What You Need When You Switch Agencies
Have these documents ready for your new agent:
- Current declarations page.
Shows your coverage limits, deductibles, premium, and company name. This is the single most useful document for getting an accurate comparison. - Wind mitigation report.
If you have one. This can save you 15% to 45% on your home insurance with a new company. - 4-point inspection.
Required for homes over 20 years old with most Florida companies. - Flood policy declarations.
If you carry flood insurance, bring this too so the new agent can review it alongside your homeowners policy. - Auto insurance declarations.
If you want your new agency to handle home and auto together, bring both.
You do not have to cancel anything to get a comparison. A good agent will quote you, show you the options, and let you decide. Call (904) 268-3106 to get started.
How to Switch Insurance Agencies Step by Step
Switching is simpler than most people expect. A good agency handles most of the work for you.
- Share your current declarations page.
This lets the new agency review your coverage and pricing accurately. - Review your options side by side.
Your new agent should show you what changes, what stays the same, and whether switching companies or keeping your current one makes more sense. - Choose the right path.
This may mean switching to a new company or completing an Agent of Record change if you want to keep your current one. - Bind your new policy first.
If you are changing companies, your new coverage should always be active before canceling your old policy. - Your new agency handles the rest.
Cancellation paperwork, timing, lender notifications. You should never feel like you are figuring it out yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch insurance agencies at any time in Florida?
Yes. You do not have to wait for your renewal date. You can switch mid-term and receive a prorated refund from your current company for the unused portion of your old policy.
Will switching agents hurt my insurance score or history?
No. Switching agents has no impact on your claims history, insurance score, or eligibility. Your claims history follows you regardless of which agency handles your policy.
Do I have to cancel my old policy myself?
In most cases, your new agent handles the cancellation after binding your new policy. Some companies require a signed cancellation request from the policyholder. Your new agent will walk you through the process.
What is an agent of record change?
An Agent of Record change moves your existing policy from one agency to another without rewriting the policy. Your company, coverage, and current premium typically stay the same.
Company rules vary, and some require signed forms or have timing restrictions. Your new agent can tell you if it is an option for your policy.
How long does it take to switch insurance agencies?
If you are doing an agent of record change, it can be done in a few days. If you are switching to a new company, most quotes come back within one to two business days. Your new agent handles the paperwork so there is no lapse.
Compare Your Insurance Options Now
Fill out the form below and our team will compare your options across 80+ companies. Home, auto, or business. Most quotes come back the same day.
Prefer to Talk to Someone?
Our team is here Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. We will walk you through the entire switching process.
Call (904) 268-3106 Augustyniak Insurance Group · 12058 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville FL
Susan Augustyniak, CIC
Vice President, Augustyniak Insurance Group
Certified Insurance Counselor with 25+ years in the industry. Before joining Augustyniak Insurance Group in 2008, Susan spent nine years at Nationwide Insurance as a commercial underwriter, large loss property claims adjuster, and sales manager. She holds a Florida 2-20 General Lines Agent license and helps Jacksonville homeowners and business owners make coverage decisions across Florida including Duval, St. Johns, Clay, and Nassau counties. Published May 2026.