Which agent has the least authority to act on behalf of an insurance company?

The soliciting agent is considered to have the least authority to act on behalf of an insurance company because their role is primarily limited to introducing potential clients to the insurance company rather than handling transactions or underwriting policies. Soliciting agents typically do not have the authority to bind coverage or negotiate terms. Their primary function is to generate leads and facilitate connections between clients and the insurance providers, but they lack the power to make decisions on behalf of the insurer.

In contrast, general agents often have broader authority, representing the insurer across a wider range of responsibilities, including managing agents and overseeing multiple locations. Exclusive agents represent a single insurance company, which gives them quite a bit of authority regarding policy sales but still operates within the confines set by the insurer. Direct writers are employees of the insurance company who are authorized to sell insurance products and manage renewals, thus holding significant authority in the transaction process. These roles, therefore, have more authority compared to that of a soliciting agent.