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Top 9 Best Insurance CRMs In 2024
-
Katherine Campbell
The U.S. insurance market is a colossal player globally, with a staggering $1.4 trillion in net premiums written in 2021 alone. Home to nearly 6,000 insurance companies and employing 2.86 million people, it's a significant contributor to the nation's economy, accounting for 3.1% of the total GDP. Now, in the scrupulous, highly competitive world of the insurance industry—where policy types vary and regulatory compliance is paramount—a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system is a necessity. Far from merely storing customer details, an insurance CRM is attuned to the unique requirements of insurance professionals. Whether it's handling varied policies like auto, life, or health insurance, sending automatic renewal reminders, ensuring adherence to regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA, or efficiently tracking endorsements, riders, and claims, the right CRM can transform the way insurance agents and brokers operate. In this article, we'll give you our top picks for the best insurance CRMs in 2024, focusing on specific feature sets essential for this industry.
AgencyBloc
CRM with robust commissions management solution
$75+/mo
Price increases per plan, trial available
- Multiple products available for sales, marketing, and customer support teams
- Wide range of instructive video tutorials
- Exceptional in depth reporting and analysis
- 500+ integrations
Top Choice
Shape
Most powerful all-in one Insurance CRM for high performing agents.
$119/user/mo
Fixed pricing plan
- Marketing, lead management & distribution included
- Built-in phone, email, and text automation
- New policy and automatic renewal workflows
- Online portal to streamline new policy sales
Freshworks
Solid insurance sales software with sufficient features
$0-83/mo
Free plan available, premium starts at $18
- Behavioral targeted emails and messages
- Saves money by not having to pay for many different apps
- Has advanced marketing and automation tools
- Easy to integrate into a WordPress website
What is a CRM for insurance and how does it help insurance companies?
An insurance CRM is a customer relationship management system tailored for the insurance business. It streamlines client interactions, policy management, and sales processes, enhancing customer service and operational efficiency. By consolidating data and automating tasks, it empowers insurers to focus on personalized client engagement and business growth.
Our picks for the top 9 best CRMs for insurance are:
What key features should I look for in insurance CRM software?
When sifting through the large array of insurance CRMs available, it's essential to understand what features to prioritize. Whether you want efficient pipeline management, sales automation, lead generation, will depend on the needs of your insurance agency. That being said, below are 10 CRM features insurance providers should look out for:
- 1. Policy Versatility: Top-notch Insurance CRMs handle a spectrum of policies from auto to health and life insurance, streamlining the process for agents. This adaptability ensures that no matter the client's need, there's a policy solution at hand. It's about offering tailored services, enhancing client satisfaction, and opening doors to various sales opportunities.
- 2. Renewal Reminders: An insurance CRM should excel in automating renewal reminders, a critical function to avoid policy lapses. These timely alerts keep both agents and clients ahead of the game, ensuring continuous coverage and nurturing a trust-based relationship. The CRM can integrate web forms to gather updated client data (like contact information), ensuring renewal reminders are accurately targeted.
- 3. Regulatory Compliance: Staying compliant is non-negotiable in insurance, and a reliable CRM makes this complex task manageable. More than adhering to standards like GDPR and HIPAA; it safeguards your reputation and client trust. Compliance becomes less of a burden and more of an integrated process
- 4. Endorsements and Claims: When it comes to endorsements and claims, precision is key, and this is where an insurance CRM shines. They provide agents with the tools to manage claims efficiently, ensuring quick responses and accurate record-keeping. This efficiency is pivotal in maintaining client confidence during crucial policy moments.
- 5. Ease of Use: User-friendliness is at the heart of a good CRM. With intuitive interfaces and comprehensive support, these systems reduce the learning curve and enhance productivity. Having all relevant data manageable and accessible via a single dashboard truly is a game-changer, making daily tasks simpler and more efficient.
- 6. Insurance sales software: In the insurance landscape, having a dedicated insurance sales software feature in your CRM is a game-changer. It's specifically tailored to cater to the unique dynamics of insurance sales, from lead management to closing deals. This specialized software streamlines the sales process, integrates essential tools, and provides analytics specifically designed for insurance products. It's not just about managing client data; it's about enhancing the entire sales journey, making every interaction more efficient and effective.
- 7. Scalability: As agencies expand and adapt, the CRM should be right there with them. Whether it's adding new policy types, expanding to new regions, or scaling up the client base, the CRM software should accommodate growth without hindrance.
- 8. Integrations with other insurance-focused software: In an interconnected industry ecosystem, the CRM's ability to integrate smoothly with tools like underwriting systems, payment gateways, and compliance tracking platforms can significantly streamline operations.
- 9. Security: Handling sensitive customer information demands stringent security measures. The CRM should prioritize data protection with top-tier security protocols and compliance standards.
- 10. Customer Support: In the complex arena of insurance, a CRM's support system can be a decisive factor. Emphasis on responsiveness, industry expertise, and problem-solving can elevate the user experience and ensure smooth operations.
What are the top 5 ways to utilize an insurance CRM?
In the competitive insurance industry, maximizing the capabilities of a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system is crucial. Here are five key ways insurance professionals can leverage a CRM to enhance efficiency and client relations:
- 1. Policy Management: An efficient insurance CRM software offers a centralized platform for insurance businesses to manage various policies. From the complexities of life insurance to the nuances of auto or health policies, a robust CRM ensures all information is organized and accessible. This systematization not only saves time but also helps reduce errors, ensuring that agents can quickly retrieve the exact details they need when interacting with clients or making internal decisions.
- 2. Automatic Renewal Reminders: UtilIn the insurance sector, missed renewals can be costly both in terms of revenue and client trust. With a CRM's automation capabilities, agencies can schedule and send out reminders well in advance of policy expiration dates. Such proactive customer communication ensures that clients are always informed, minimizing lapses in coverage and reinforcing the agency's commitment to their well-being.
- 3. Regulatory Compliance Tracking: The insurance world is rife with regulations, and non-compliance can lead to heavy penalties. By incorporating regulatory tracking features, modern insurance CRM tools can act as a safeguard against potential oversights. Whether it's adhering to international standards like GDPR, medical mandates like HIPAA, or region-specific rules, the CRM serves as a dynamic checklist, ensuring that every regulatory nuance is addressed.
- 4. Endorsement and Claim Monitoring: Amendments to policies in the form of endorsements or riders, and managing claims, are crucial aspects of insurance operations. An advanced CRM for insurance agents facilitates the seamless tracking of these components, ensuring that all modifications are recorded in real-time. This not only aids in maintaining policy accuracy but also expedites the claims processing time, enhancing client satisfaction.
- 5. Customer Relationship Building: While the technical aspects of insurance are vital, the heart of the industry lies in building and maintaining client relationships. A CRM provides a holistic view of each client, capturing their interactions, preferences, and feedback. By leveraging this data, insurance sales agents can personalize their sales approach, offering products or services that align with individual needs, thereby forging deeper, more trustful relationships.
Quick Comparison of CRMs for Insurance:
| Software | Intro Price | Differentiator |
|---|---|---|
|
Shape |
$119 |
The best all-in-one CRM with the most insurance integrations and built-in features |
|
AgencyBloc |
$75+ |
Robust commissions module that that accurately tracks all commission |
|
Freshworks |
$0+ |
Low cost, fully featured system that works across customer service, sales and marketing |
|
Zoho CRM |
$0+ |
A low cost unified platform to manage all aspects of your agency |
|
Salesforce Financial Services Cloud |
$250+ |
Lots of modules that can be customized to meet specific workflows |
|
Applied Epic |
On quote |
Direct integration with insurers to ensure up-to-date data |
|
HubSpot |
$0 |
Comprehensive marketing, sales, and service software with extensive integration options |
|
Zendesk Sell |
$19+ |
Efficient in managing omnichannel communications, suitable for long sales cycles |
|
NetSuite |
$1000+ (estimated) |
All-encompassing CRM and ERP solution with real-time intelligence and global regulatory compliance |
1. Shape
| Founded: 1999 HQ: Irvine, California, United States | |
|---|---|
|
Key Info |
Price: $119/user/mo
Free plan: No
Support: 24/7 (In-product support + email) |
|
Best For |
Insurance agencies looking for a comprehensive software to power their growth |
|
Pros |
+ Comes with several lead providers already integrated
+ Phone, email, text, marketing, and lead distribution all-in-one
+ Lead scoring and automatic lead prioritization comes with every system
+ Assists in renewals and minimizing cancellations |
|
Cons |
– Works with all lead providers
– Phone, email, texting, and communications are all done in-app |
|
Integrations |
Outlook, Gmail, Quickbooks, Zapier, Calendly, and many more |
|
Pricing Model |
Fixed pricing plan |
Whether you want to grow your book of business, streamline your sales activities, or improve customer loyalty, Shape's insurance CRM has you covered. A truly comprehensive insurance software, the platfrom offers a seamless blend of top-tier marketing automation, CRM capabilities, and sector-specific tools - all consolidated in one platform. It's evident how Shape maximizes lead management, thanks to its strategic collaborations with leading lead providers. Features like automated lead follow-ups and rate-quoting integrations consolidate its position as the ultimate insurance CRM software for insurance agencies keen on scaling. Moreover, its many years serving the needs of the real estate industry will serve property insurance providers well.
One of Shape's defining aspects is its inbuilt dialer, complemented by features such as lead distribution, sales pipelines, and expansive email and text automation, brimming with versatile templates. The mobility offered via its Mobile CRM app ensures that agents stay productive on-the-go, emphasizing flexibility.
From solo agents keen on streamlining their daily operations to expansive insurance corporations with a panorama of agencies under their umbrella, Shape can manage the entire insurance workflow. Its capability to discern and manage diverse roles and permissions is commendable. Centralization of customer data, managing sales pipeline, encompassing policy documents, notes, and more, becomes effortless with Shape.
The prowess of Shape's reporting platform cannot be overstated, providing a holistic view of sales dynamics and account health. A mere click unravels a world of possibilities, whether that's viewing account specifics, quoting, claim filing, or renewal remarketing. Moreover, Shape's inclusive approach ensures streamlined communication, irrespective of the medium - be it phone, email, text, or within Shape itself.
Elevating client-agent interaction, Shape's Client Portal revolutionizes document collection, reminder dispatches, and follow-ups. Eliminating mundane tasks, it ensures agents dedicate their time to what truly matters: fostering relationships and converting prospects into customers. Automated follow-up systems further drive retention and renewals.
To encapsulate, Shape isn't just a CRM software - it's an ecosystem, promising insurance agencies a transformative journey, focusing on growth, efficiency, and unparalleled client engagement. No matter what type of insurance you're involved.
2. AgencyBloc
| Founded: 2008 HQ: Iowa, USA | |
|---|---|
|
Key Info |
Price: $75/month
Free plan: No; Trial available
Support: Phone, email, live chat |
|
Best For |
Life and health insurance agencies looking for robust commissions management solution |
|
Pros |
+ Robust Commission tracking solution
+ All client information can be tracked from a single page
+ Comprehensive reports that are customizable |
|
Cons |
– The email solution lacks some features and is not robust
– No client self-service portal
– Some workflows are clunky and make the process lengthy |
|
Integrations |
Zapier, Ease |
|
Pricing Model |
Custom plans starting at $75 per month |
AgencyBloc is a distinctive CRM tailored specifically for insurance agencies. Primarily serving sectors such as life, health, senior market insurance, and benefits agencies, its focus is fortifying the pivotal customer relationships making it ideal for insurance agents.
Upon testing, it's immediately evident that AgencyBloc alleviates the steep learning curve often associated with CRM platforms.
The lack of extensive customization required to jumpstart the CRM system is refreshing. This ready-to-use approach can be attributed to the fact that the CRM is structured with the insurance sector in mind. Its intuitive layout, paired with user-friendly navigation, makes it a pleasure to operate.
The depth of AgencyBloc’s features emerges when delving into its policy management capabilities. Agents are equipped with tools that allow them to adeptly link policies with relevant carriers, other agents, commissions, and clients. This presents a comprehensive overview of each policy.
Additionally, the system ensures that policy payouts are straightforward, making certain that agents are compensated accurately. Addressing the inevitable challenge of policy renewals, AgencyBloc offers innovative solutions.
With its Advanced Search tool, agents have at their disposal continuously updated CRM records that highlight upcoming renewals and, more importantly, potential cross-selling opportunities. In tandem with this, the insurance CRM software automates workflows, systematically sending timely emails and task notifications about imminent policy renewals.
But what truly accentuates AgencyBloc's prowess is its unwavering commitment to compliance. It proudly boasts a HITRUST certification and doesn't waver in ensuring that all user activities align with the regulations of the industry, including GDPR and HIPAA.
This is further underscored by their choice to host solutions on HIPAA-compliant AWS servers, punctuated with rigorous annual SOC 2 Type II audits. AgencyBloc leaves no stone unturned in customer data security either, with encryption protocols that rival banking standards, complemented by backups in diverse locations.
A mention of AgencyBloc’s seamless integrations is warranted, particularly its alliance with Zapier. This integration is instrumental in streamlining document management.
Agents are now empowered to dispatch signable documents, like those from DocuSign, directly to clients, which are then automatically appended to their profiles in AgencyBloc.
AgencyBloc's adaptability is another commendable trait. Its inherent features, coupled with the potential for integrations, render it scalable, and ready to evolve in tandem with burgeoning business needs.
User reviews frequently highlight AgencyBloc's intuitive layout and the subsequent time savings, with one elated user exclaiming, "This CRM transformed my 10-hour workday into just 7.5 hours!"
However, every CRM software has room for improvement. While AgencyBloc impresses on many fronts, it does have its constraints, notably in the realm of support. The current offering of phone support and online demos is commendable, but the conspicuous absence of a self-service portal might ruffle feathers.
This limitation becomes especially glaring outside of regular business hours. The resultant impediment in workflow, particularly if clients are involved, can lead to mounting frustrations. It also has the unintended consequence of agents diverting their time to handle client inquiries, potentially dampening overall efficiency.
To conclude, AgencyBloc’s pricing, starting at $75/month for the Agency Management module and $125/month for the Commissions module, with the added perk of a free trial, is competitive. While the pricing can burgeon with customizations, the suite of tools on offer, and the tailored experience, it promises make it a worthwhile contender for CRMs in insurance sector.
3. Freshworks
| Founded: 2010 HQ: San Mateo, California, United States | |
|---|---|
|
Key Info |
Price: Starts at $0
Free plan: Yes; Trial: 15 days
Support: Email, phone, chat, remote assistance
|
|
Best For |
Sales teams looking for solid insurance sales software |
|
Pros |
+ Comprehensive marketing Features supporting omnichannel client communications
+ Feature rich mobile app for agents
+ Robust Automation of the sales process |
|
Cons |
– Prices can go up significantly if customizations are required
– No plug and play industry specific templates/customizations
– While it offers a wide range of features, the system does not operate smoothly and runs into bugs and glitches |
|
Integrations |
Zapier, Segment, Shopify, Typeform, HubSpot CRM and many more |
|
Pricing Model |
Growth: $18/month
Pro: $47/month
Enterprise: $83/month
|
Freshworks is a sales CRM software that can be tailored for any insurance business. This solution aims to enhance client relationships and maximize insurance agent productivity.
While testing, a notable feature we observed is its intuitive user interface. The UI uses visual Kanban cards and detailed contact management filters to organize customer data.
This ability to organize data comes in handy when dealing with a diverse customer base holding various policies such as life, health, and automotive insurance. With the help of visual Kanban cards, you can efficiently address queries, track policy renewals, and manage claims, regardless of the policy type.
In addition to its flexible interface, Freshworks also boasts competitive pricing. It offers a free plan and three premium monthly pricing plans: Growth, Pro, and Enterprise, priced at $18, $47, and $83 per user per month, respectively. This range of price points makes Freshworks quite affordable compared to other CRM solutions in the market.
But affordability isn't Freshworks’ only strength. The powerful CRM excels in improving client communication, which is crucial for achieving success given the increasing competition within the industry. Freshworks simplifies this process by integrating built-in chat, email, and phone functionalities right within the CRM, even on the free plan. Furthermore, by incorporating Freshchat, Freshworks' AI-driven real-time chat tool, you can engage with clients in real-time and gather valuable insights.
When you upgrade to the Growth plan, you unlock the benefits of automated workflows and AI-powered contact scoring. These features even further enhance your customer engagement strategy.
With automated workflows, you can simplify routine tasks such as sending policy renewal reminders or assigning insurance agents to customers. The contact scoring feature complements this by identifying high-intent leads based on their interactions with your insurance agency. Once you’ve identified these high potential customers , you can set up automated workflows to send personalized communications, such as providing detailed information about policies they have shown interest in or scheduling automatic follow-ups.
This ensures that potential policyholders are noticed and receive the attention they deserve. In essence, both of these tools work together seamlessly to effectively engage with potential new clients through timely and personalized communication, thereby enhancing their overall customer experience.
What completely seals the deal is the robust insurance deal management capability. The AI-powered Deal Insights & Next Best Action feature identifies deals likely to close, those that might go cold or face risks, and provides smart suggestions for your next steps.
It goes beyond merely predicting your deals’ potential outcomes, but also analyzes market trends and customer behaviors to offer actionable insights. This means you'll get a well-defined plan for each deal, knowing when to push forward, adjust your approach, or nurture a lead that might have otherwise been overlooked. It also has robust tools to track sales performance. With such valuable strategic direction, your sales team can optimize their performance and achieve higher success rates and revenue growth in the long run.
Despite Freshworks’s blend of affordability and robust features, like other platforms, it also has its drawbacks. A few individuals have mentioned experiencing issues and technical hiccups that affected the overall performance of the system. These occasional setbacks can disrupt the workflow, leading to inefficiency and frustration among users.
In the worst-case scenario, it may lead to missed chances or misunderstandings with customers, which can have an impact on your reputation and relationships with clients.
Regardless, Freshworks continues to be an important CRM for insurance agents. The CRM’s ability to adjust to your expanding and diverse clientele and its emphasis on improving communication and productivity make it a valuable investment for your insurance agency. All in all, it's a great insurance CRM for insurance brokers who want to drive sales.
4. Zoho CRM
| Founded: 2005 HQ: Austin, Texas, United States; Chennai India | |
|---|---|
|
Key Info |
Price: Starts at $0
Free plan: Yes; Trial: 15 days
Support: 24/5 Chat & email support
|
|
Best For |
Insurance Agencies looking for versatile, customizable and easy-to-use insurance CRM solution |
|
Pros |
+ A single platform that can support complete business operations
+ Extensive customizations options including UI
+ Comprehensive features for a very low price |
|
Cons |
– It cannot handle complex data sets very well like a one-to-many-to-many relationship or hierarchical data
– No insurance industry specific templates or prebuilt workflows
– Some important features like filtering and layout adjustments are not available in the free plan |
|
Integrations |
Salesforce, SugarCRM, OneDrive, Monday Sales CRM, creatio CRM, salesmate CRM and many more |
|
Pricing Model |
Standard: $12 per user/month
Professional: $20 per user/month
Enterprise: $35 per user/month
Ultimate: $45 per user/month |
Next on our list of best CRMs for insurance agents is Zoho CRM. It is a highly versatile CRM software that is adaptable to the needs of the insurance industry. Thanks to its multipage layouts and conditional fields, Insurance agents can get a comprehensive view of each customer's insurance policies at a glance. This makes it easier to handle multiple insurance policies guaranteeing a hassle-free service, for all clients.
What really sets Zoho CRM apart for us, however, is its all-in-one approach. It serves as a one-stop-shop, bringing together every possible tool an insurance agent might need - from Sales Force and Marketing Automation to Performance Management - into a single platform. This comprehensive approach ensures that no aspect of client management is overlooked, enhancing efficiency and productivity.
Even when we look into the specific features of the CRM system, the versatility remains evident. For instance, the Assignment Rules feature streamlines the claims management by directing claims to the right employee, ensuring timely resolution and high customer satisfaction.
For large agencies requiring more extensive features, Zoho CRM's versatility shines yet again with features like custom modules and translations. The custom modules enable precise data capture tailored to your specific business need, allowing you to focus on managing policies rather than just using default modules such as lead management, contacts, accounts, and deal management.
Similarly, the translation feature is handy if you run a global operation or have expansion plans. Translating all the adaptable features ensures that language barriers do not hinder your ability to serve clients and expand your presence on a global scale.
Then there’s Zia, Zoho's AI-powered assistant that offers valuable lead and deal predictions. Zia’s functionality becomes increasingly helpful as your agency grows and handles more leads.
The system analyzes the information you provide, learns from your actions, and assists you in making informed choices. Whether identifying hot leads, suggesting the best time to contact a client, or automating routine tasks, Zia helps you to address customer needs proactively, while boosting productivity.
Zoho’s incredible versatility extends beyond its features to its compatibility with third-party software. It integrates seamlessly with over 100 well-known business apps like Google Apps, Xero, Mailchimp, Slack, and Dropbox. This integration extends its functionality and enables insurance agents to use their familiar tools alongside the CRM.
For instance, with Google Apps integration, you can sync contacts, emails, and calendar events directly with Zoho CRM, ensuring all client interactions are recorded and easily accessible. Likewise, integrating with Mailchimp helps in executing targeted email marketing campaigns, ensuring that clients stay informed about new policies or updates.
However, all these versatility and robust features would lose their impact if the insurance CRM software isn't backed by solid security measures. Therefore, Zoho CRM doesn't compromise on data security. The insurance CRM incorporates security measures and adheres to various regulations like GDPR, ISO/IEC 27017 CCPA and CSA to ensure that your data remains protected at all times. This commitment to data protection proves Zoho CRM's adaptability to different regulatory environments, tying together its versatile feature set with a strong emphasis on safety.
Zoho also brings affordability to the table with free CRM software for up to 3 users. its subscription plans designed to cater to various needs and budgets. With options like Standard, Professional, Enterprise, and Ultimate plans at $12, $20, $35, and $45 per month, respectively, it is the most affordable CRM on this list. Even better, they offer a trial for all their plans, allowing you to fully explore the capabilities of the CRM before making a commitment.
To conclude, while users generally praise Zoho CRM for its easy setup and powerful integrations, some have pointed out limitations when handling complex data sets. These limitations could lead to challenges in conducting detailed data analytics or managing complex client portfolios.
However, considering its functionality and cost-effectiveness it continues to be a strong contender in the insurance CRM solution market, for numerous insurance agents. Its strong user rating of 8.0/10 (G2) is a testament to this.
5. Salesforce Financial Services Cloud
| Founded: 1999 HQ: San Francisco, California, United States | |
|---|---|
|
Key Info |
Price: Starts at $250
Free plan: No; Trial available
Support: Self-service, additional support needs to be purchased
|
|
Best For |
Insurance agencies with complex operations |
|
Pros |
+ Easy to scale
+ Efficiently organizes all data
+ Easy to monitor tasks for insurance agents |
|
Cons |
– Customizations may require technical support
– Deployment can be challenging
– Some features may not work smoothly |
|
Integrations |
Integrates with over 3000 apps through mulesoft and App Exchange |
|
Pricing Model |
Starter – Enterprise Edition: $250
Starter – Unlimited Edition: $425
Growth – Enterprise Edition: $325
Growth – Unlimited Edition: $500 |
The Financial Services Cloud (FSC) is a Salesforce product that gives insurance companies complete visibility of clients’ financial profiles. Initially designed for wealth management solutions, FSC has been expanded and improved to cater to insurance industries covering life, annuity, group benefits, property, and casualty insurance solutions.
Housed within Salesforce's user-friendly Lightning interface, FSC can be tailored to fit the uninuq needs of any insurance company. The lightning interface is a modern dynamic interface, allowing users to customize it to align with their specific needs.
Although the customization capabilities are a significant advantage that has earned much praise from users, it's important to remember that the process can be quite complex and may require a certain level of technical support. Our process of setting up the CRM extended longer than expected, primarily due to certain complex customization.
As mentioned earlier, Salesforce FSC stands out for its ability to provide a 360-degree view of policyholders. This includes details about life events, household relationships, coverage, and claims. These details can retain existing policyholders, speed up claims management, and identify cross-selling and upselling opportunities.
For instance, knowing a policyholder's life events and household relationships can provide context for their coverage needs. If a policyholder recently got married or purchased a new home, you might anticipate a need for increased coverage or new policy types. With this information, you can proactively suggest more coverage options to them.
FSC takes this comprehensive approach a step further by allowing the seamless integration of the sales and service departments. This unified approach also allows automated workflows, providing a more detailed customer view and enabling quicker, more accurate responses to policy inquiries.
Furthermore, considering the sensitive nature of the customer information agents will be handling, Financial Service Cloud provides features that align with HIPAA regulations. These include encryption, comprehensive auditing, strict access control, and a Business Associate Agreement (BAA). The BAA lists the company's obligations to keep Protected Health Information (PHI) safe, reinforcing Salesforce Financial Service Cloud's commitment to maintaining maximum data security.
However, while FSC is packed with many functionalities essential for insurance agents, it comes with a significant price tag. With subscription plans ranging from $250 to $500 per user per month, it's a substantial investment that may not be feasible for small businesses operating on tighter budgets.
Overall, Salesforce's Financial Services Cloud is a robust insurance CRM for insurance agents, providing a comprehensive view of policyholders and offering a wide range of customizable features. Despite its high cost and potential technical challenges, its scalability, integration, and compliance benefits make it a powerful tool worth considering.
6. Applied Epic
| Founded: 1980 HQ: Illinois, USA | |
|---|---|
|
Key Info |
Price: On quote
Free plan: No; Trial: No
Support: 24/7 support through chat
|
|
Best For |
Insurance Agencies with many remote team members |
|
Pros |
+ Robust Policy Management Tools
+ Has communication templates for sales agents
+ All data can be accessed from one place including notes and attachments making it very convenient for users |
|
Cons |
– Customizations are limited for reports
– The system is geared more toward commercial insurance lines than personal insurance lines
– Some users find the accounting confusing |
|
Integrations |
Salesforce sales cloud, Zyware, BenefitPoint, Erlon Surety and many more |
|
Pricing Model |
On quote |
Applied Epic is a great insurance CRM designed to handle property and casualty benefits. Its unique selling point is its browser-native accessibility, a feature that brings the flexibility of remote work to your team. No matter where they are, team members can easily access the system.
But, the platform's flexibility continues beyond remote work. Applied Epic also supports third-party application integrations, allowing your business to grow and expand without worrying about technological limitations.
This integration provides added functionalities like Salesforce’s 360-degree customer view, further enhancing customer relationship management capabilities. As a result, the insurance CRM can evolve along with your business and seamlessly adapt to manage your growing needs.
This adaptability also applies to your company’s day-to-day operations. Applied Epic has a comprehensive design brings all your needs into one place. Whether you need to access account and policy information, file claims, process quotes, or handle renewals, it's all readily available. Plus, with the platform’s simple and intuitive user interface, you can perform these tasks with just a few clicks.
Yet, as with any effective insurance CRM, Applied Epic comes with a learning curve. To help users navigate this, Applied Epic offers live training with its support staff. However, we have observed some inconsistencies in these training methods. Different support staff provided varying instructions for the same queries.Â
Although both sets of instructions were accurate, these discrepancies could lead to confusion, especially if your team is spread across different locations or departments. In this case, you may have to provide additional internal training resources or guidelines to ensure all team members are on the same page.
Applied Epic is designed with efficiency in mind. The platform can transform your agency's operations with its process management and automation features, streamlining recurring workflow of insurance agents such as policy renewals.
In addition to these operational efficiencies, Applied Epic simplifies administrative activities by providing real-time access to policy information. This immediate access enables your team to deliver efficient and effective service from the onset.Â
Furthermore, the software integrates seamlessly with additional products like IVANS Exchange, enhancing connectivity with all insurers. This integration lets you easily track policy endorsements, riders, and claims, ensuring you stay on top of every detail.
Like the other insurance CRM software products we've previously discussed in this article, Applied Epic demonstrates a strong commitment to compliance. It complies with several key regulations, such as ACA, ERISA, and HIPAA.Â
You'll find Applied Epic a valuable resource if your agency's work involves assisting clients with eligibility or enrollment submissions. It not only helps to validate your work but also effectively captures necessary data for audit purposes.
When it comes to pricing, Applied Epic adopts a personalized approach. The platform's pricing isn't publicly available, so you'll need to contact their sales team directly for a customized quote that aligns with your needs. This personalized approach ensures that you are only paying for what you need, providing a cost-effective solution.
7. HubSpot CRM
| Founded: 2006 HQ: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States | |
|---|---|
|
Key info |
Price: On quote (Variable based on plan and add-ons)
Free plan: Available
Support: 24/7 support available starting from the Professional plan
|
|
Best for |
Insurance agencies with many remote team members where extensive feature set could be beneficial |
|
Pros |
+ Automates and simplifies workflows, centralizes client interactions, and eliminates data entry
+ Offers customizable email templates for various sales scenarios
+ Centralizes customer data, including interactions and policy details |
|
Cons |
– There are more affordable options available for some of HubSpot’s features
– HubSpot can become expensive quickly, particularly as you scale up or require more advanced features.
– Essential features like A/B testing are not available in lower-tier packages. |
|
Integrations |
Salesforce, email marketing platforms, social media management tools, project management apps, and more |
|
Pricing Model (not including add ons) |
Free Tools: Basic CRM functionality at no cost. Starter Plan: $27.90 per user per month. Professional Plan: $49.90 per user per month. Enterprise Plan: $99 per user per month. |
With its vast range of products, HubSpot CRM has been rapidly making waves in this high presure sector, delivering a revolutionary approach to managing the intricate web of insurance workflows. By automating key processes, the software not only eliminates tedious data entry but also obviates the need for physical case folders.
This efficiency boost allows insurance agents to allocate their time more strategically, focusing on client interaction and policy management rather than administrative tasks. The ability to automate, assign tasks, and manage multiple policies within a single system makes HubSpot CRM a powerhouse for streamlining insurance agency operations.
Where HubSpot's insurance CRM really excels is in integrating various communication channels into a cohesive lead management strategy, ensuring that no potential client interaction falls through the cracks. Whether leads originate from social media, website inquiries, phone calls, or referrals, the system captures and organizes them efficiently.
Furthermore, its intelligent lead distribution mechanism automatically assigns leads based on factors like policy type interest, agent availability, and geography, significantly enhancing the potential for conversion and streamlining the journey through the sales funnel​​.
At its core, HubSpot CRM is designed to foster stronger customer relationships. It achieves this through a mobile-friendly platform that aligns with the modern insurance agent's on-the-go lifestyle, ensuring they can connect with clients anytime, anywhere.
The software also offers robust analytics and report generation capabilities, providing invaluable insights into customer behavior and sales trends. This feature is especially crucial for insurance brokers, where understanding customer needs and behaviors is key to tailoring policies and services. Moreover, HubSpot CRM ensures the highest level of data security, safeguarding sensitive customer information and complying with industry-standard security protocols​​​​.
Despite all these great selling points, the software isn't perfect. When you factor in the add-ons, insurance providers may find it to be a little costly. What's more, it does have a have a steep learning curve, and some users have reported issues with the duplication of client data (not ideal given the vital importance of customer interactions in the industry!).
8. Zendesk Sell
| Founded: 2007 HQ: San Francisco, California, United States | |
|---|---|
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Key info |
Price: from $19 per agent/month​​.
Free plan: No
Support: Phone & email
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Best for |
Deals involving many points of contact and long sales cycles​​ |
|
Pros |
+ Cost-effective and user-friendly​​.
+ Efficient in funneling client communication and well-integrated with various platforms like JotForm, Microsoft Dynamics, and social media websites​​.
+ Provides rich features for creating lists of leads, deals, contacts, and companies​​.
+ Offers a powerful mobile app for modern, agile sales teams​​. |
|
Cons |
– Does not allow adding prospects from a company domain or email to auto-fill data; manual data entry required​​
– Some users reported extremely poor support and issues with auto-renewal​​.
– Limited in terms of email automation and automated processes; most client communication is manual or requires integration with another platform​​.
– May be too basic for large businesses currently using a more customized CRM system​​. |
|
Integrations |
Over 1600 apps, including Email tracker, Help Desk Migration, and Klaus |
|
Pricing Model (not including add ons) |
Sell Team: $19 per agent/month. Sell Growth: $55 per agent/month. Sell Professional: $115 per agent/month. Enterprise Plan: Starting at $169 per user/month​​​​. |
Zendesk Sell is redefining the CRM landscape of insurance operations with a a blend of robust features and financial data services. A number of users have praised its in managing omnichannel communications, from social media to call centers. This adaptability ensures that both leads and customers are within reach at all times, a critical aspect for insurance agents who deal with extensive client interactions.
The insurance CRM shines in lead generation and qualification - crucial steps in the insurance sales process. Zendesk Sell leverages website lead forms and email marketing strategies effectively. These tools are pivotal for reaching a wider audience, especially the under-40 demographic, who are less inclined to actively seek out insurance information.
Email automation in Zendesk Sell offers a streamlined approach to maintaining client relations. Businesses can benefit from tailored email campaigns that keep clients engaged and informed. This feature simplifies the tedious task of manual follow-ups, allowing agents to focus more on client interactions and less on administrative chores​​.
Zendesk Sell also uses clever implementation of artificial intelligence, enhancing the sales force automation system. AI features, like friendly chatbots on Facebook, help generate new leads and provide customer service across various communication channels. The Zendesk Answer Bot, a conversational AI tool, helps maintain a robust lead pipeline without overburdening the sales team. This integration of AI allows for personalized customer interactions, ensuring that each client feels heard and valued.
It should be noted that, the platform may not be suitable for larger insurance businesses and offers fewer digital selling tools compared to some other CRM platforms. There's also a lack of features for creating quotes or proposals, which could be a deal breaker for many insurance businesses.
That being said, Zendesk Sell is still a comprehensive, cost-effective, and user-friendly insurance CRM. It offers the tools needed to streamline workflows, enhance client interactions, and ultimately drive sales growth. Whether you're a small agency or a large enterprise, Zendesk Sell's scalability and customization options make it a viable choice for transforming the way insurance sales are managed.
9. NetSuite CRM
| Founded: 1998 HQ: Austin, Texas, United States | |
|---|---|
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Key info |
Price: Cost depends on the number of users and features included. Small businesses can expect to pay over $1,000 per month for licensing, add-on modules, and additional user fees​​.
Trial: 14 Days
Support: Not specifically detailed
|
|
Best for |
Insurance companies seeking an integrated CRM and ERP solution for comprehensive business management |
|
Pros |
+ Comprehensive commission tracking for both organization and producers​​.
+ Streamlined policy servicing and bespoke policyholder responses​​​​.
+ Premium monitoring for controlling increases and assessing potential risks​​.
+ Enhanced health insurance delivery, including transparent service and simplified processes​​.
+ Multi-entity management within a single system, allowing for global scalability​​.
+ Efficient life and annuity insurance servicing on one platform​​. |
|
Cons |
– Pricing may be high for small businesses​​.
– Lack of publicly available pricing information and free trial option might deter potential users​​. |
|
Integrations |
Cube, Shopify, Freshdesk, Salesforce, and many more. |
|
Pricing Model (not including add ons) |
Sell Team: $19 per agent/month. Sell Growth: $55 per agent/month. Sell Professional: $115 per agent/month. Enterprise Plan: Starting at $169 per user/month​​​​. |
NetSuite for Insurance is specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of the insurance sector, providing an integrated CRM and ERP solution. This insurance CRM excels in several key areas crucial for insurance companies. It offers advanced commission tracking, enabling efficient management of commissions paid to the organization and owed to producers. Furthermore, NetSuite streamlines policy servicing, allowing for the sale and service of policies in a way that balances automated and assisted customer service models. This flexibility is crucial for responding effectively to the diverse needs of policyholders.
The software also shines in providing customized reporting and real-time intelligence. Users can access critical business information, such as sales breakdowns by various categories like office, agent, or policy type, through a cloud-based dashboard. This feature ensures that decision-makers have real-time insights into their operations, a vital component for dynamic business environments. Additionally, NetSuite's premium monitoring and bills management capabilities allow for better control over financial aspects, including monitoring premium increases and managing billing and collections across different insurance models.
NetSuite also addresses the need for regulatory compliance, a significant concern in the insurance industry. The platform supports compliance with global standards like IFRS 17 and LDTI, incorporating risk assessments into the compliance strategy. This capability is particularly important for businesses operating across multiple jurisdictions with varying regulatory requirements.
On the downside, the lack of transparent pricing and potential high costs can be a barrier, especially for smaller businesses. NetSuite's pricing structure, which includes an annual licensing fee and additional charges based on the number of users and features, might be too steep for smaller companies. However, the insurance CRM has few rivals in terms of scalability and comprehensive features, making it a suitable choice for larger organizations looking for an all-in-one solution.
How to pick the right CRM for your insurance business
Navigating the intricate landscape of this industry demands more than just expertise—it requires the right tools. Throughout this article, we've unpacked the transformative potential of specialized CRM systems for insurance professionals. From deftly managing diverse policy types to ensuring regulatory compliance and fostering genuine customer relationships, the right insurance CRM can be a linchpin in enhancing operational efficiency and client trust.
If you're in this sector, consider your current challenges and future goals. As you weigh your insurance CRM options, reflect on the features we've highlighted and how they might align with your agency's unique needs. The next step? Start exploring top insurance CRM software with a clear checklist in hand, armed with the knowledge from this article. The right insurance CRM solution not only streamlines your daily operations but also elevate your agency to new heights of success and customer satisfaction. Happy hunting!
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