Who signs the form?
An authorized representative of the employer, such as an owner or officer, signs and dates it. Carriers expect someone with authority to act for the employer.
The authorized signer.
Carriers expect someone with authority to act for the employer. That is usually an owner, officer or other person who makes benefits decisions.
If you are unsure who qualifies, ask your new broker or the carrier.
Why the Signer Matters.
Carriers accept a broker of record letter from a person who can act on behalf of the employer. That usually means an owner, partner or corporate officer, or someone the employer has formally authorized to make benefits decisions. A signature from a person without that authority is a common reason for a carrier to send the form back.
Titles vary. In a small company the owner or president typically signs, and in a larger organization the CFO, HR director or another executive may be authorized. If you are unsure, ask the carrier or the new broker what they will accept.
Keep a copy of the signed letter. It is the employer’s record of who was appointed, and when, and it is useful if a carrier ever asks to see it again.
A few more questions.
Can HR sign?
Often yes if HR has been authorized to make benefits decisions for the company. If the carrier asks for proof of authority, an owner or officer can sign instead.
Do both owners need to sign?
Generally one authorized signer is enough, but ask the carrier.
Do both owners have to sign?
Usually one authorized signer is enough, but some carriers ask for more where the company’s records require it. The new broker can check the carrier’s rule in advance.
Can we use an electronic signature?
Many carriers accept electronic signatures, but practices differ. Ask the new broker to confirm before you sign.
Can the broker sign for us?
No. The letter is the employer’s instruction, so someone with authority at the employer must sign it.
Related guides.
Broker of Record Change: Form, Timeline and What to Expect
The form, the timeline and what to expect.
How long does a broker of record change take?
It varies by carrier. Some process the change quickly and others take longer, so ask your new broker about each carrier on your account.
Can I change the broker on only one line of coverage?
Often yes. Many employers move all lines together, but carriers commonly allow a change on one line at a time.
Agent of Record vs Broker of Record
Are the two terms the same? Yes.
Send us your renewal.
We’ll tell you whether it looks competitive, where we see opportunity, and the five questions we’d put to your carrier. No cost, and no obligation to move anything.
The renewal letter
Your current plan summary
Contribution split by tier
Enrolled counts by tier
Four documents — two more if your group is 50 or more. Nothing else; every extra one is a reason to postpone.
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