Which type of authority allows an agent to perform all usual tasks required to sell and service insurance contracts?

The concept of authority in the context of an insurance agent refers to the powers granted to the agent to act on behalf of an insurance company. In this case, express authority is the correct choice because it is specifically defined as the explicit powers that an insurance company grants to its agents through a contract or agreement. This authority includes the ability to perform all tasks necessary to sell and service insurance contracts, which encompasses activities such as negotiating policies, collecting premiums, and providing customer services.

Express authority is crucial for maintaining the relationship between the agent and the insurer as it clearly delineates the extent of powers the agent has. This allows agents to operate confidently within the scope of their responsibilities without needing additional approval for every action they undertake, ensuring efficient operations in the sale and servicing of insurance.

Implied authority, while related, encompasses the powers that are not explicitly stated but are necessary for the agent to perform their job effectively. It supports express authority but does not cover the full range of tasks an agent can perform. Other options like agent authority and particular authority are not standard terms commonly recognized in this context, making them less relevant to describing the full scope of an agent's responsibilities as governed by express authority.