Who must countersign property and casualty insurance policies issued in Georgia?

In Georgia, property and casualty insurance policies must be countersigned by a licensed resident agent to ensure compliance with state regulations. This requirement serves a couple of purposes:

First, it provides an additional layer of accountability and professionalism in the issuance of insurance policies. The countersignature acts as a verification that the policy is being issued through a properly licensed agent who has the authority to bind coverage and whose credentials have been vetted by the state.

Second, it emphasizes the importance of maintaining local representation in the insurance process, ensuring that policyholders have access to someone who understands both the product being purchased and the local insurance market. In many situations, having a licensed resident agent familiar with Georgia law and procedures can help consumers navigate their coverage options more effectively.

While other professionals in the insurance industry play crucial roles, like insurance counselors and sub-agents, the specific requirement for countersigning is reserved for resident agents, reflecting their direct relationship and obligation to the policyholder. The Insurance Commissioner oversees the regulatory compliance of the industry as a whole but does not countersign insurance policies.