When it comes to crop insurance, strong relationships and dependable support can make all the difference. During a recent interview, Rachael Crocker, AVP of Marketing and Communications at AgriSompo, spoke with Brent York of York Ridge Agency in Carmi, Illinois, about his experience as a crop insurance agent and the value he finds in partnering with AgriSompo.
With 24 years in the crop insurance industry, York has seen firsthand what separates strong Approved Insurance Providers (AIPs) from the rest.
The power of a strong claims team
When asked what sets AgriSompo apart from other providers, York's answer was immediate: the claims team.
According to York, having access to knowledgeable and responsive adjusters gives him confidence that his farmers will be taken care of when they need assistance most.
"I have six adjusters within 60 miles of my office," York said. "I do not have to babysit anything."
He added that the leadership and responsiveness of the claims team are the primary reasons he continues to do business with AgriSompo.
Tools and communication that support agents
York also highlighted the company's internal communication and accessibility as key factors in helping him better serve his customers.
"The one thing I would say is they have the tools that I need," he said.
Whether working with underwriting, accounting or other departments, York knows exactly who to contact to quickly resolve issues. He shared a recent example of a customer who accidentally paid a bill twice. One phone call was all it took to get the issue resolved and initiate a refund.
That responsiveness, he said, reflects AgriSompo's strong commitment to customer service.
An underwriting team he can count on
When asked about AgriSompo individuals who have made a difference in his work, York pointed to the underwriting team.
Whether communicating by phone or text, York said the team is consistently available and helps him get answers quickly while meeting with customers.
"When you're with a customer and they need to know the answer, you need to be able to get ahold of someone," he said.
For York, that accessibility helps him provide a higher level of service and reinforces trust with his clients.
Supporting innovation and program integrity
York believes strong AIPs also play an important role in supporting the federal crop insurance program.
He emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to combat fraud while also investing in new and innovative programs that help meet producers' evolving risk-management needs.
York pointed to Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO) and Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO) as examples of programs that have gained traction in recent years and provide additional tools for farmers looking to strengthen their risk protection strategies.
A culture built on relationships
Perhaps most important to York is the culture of accessibility and personal connection he has experienced throughout his time with AgriSompo.
Having worked with the company for many years, he values the opportunity to build relationships across all levels of the organization.
"They care about agents like me," York said. "I know I'm not the largest agent in the world, but they do take the time."
From department staff to senior leadership, York believes those relationships create a partnership that benefits both agents and the customers they serve.
Putting agents first
For York, AgriSompo's commitment to responsive claims service, accessible underwriting support and strong personal relationships continues to make a meaningful difference in his business.
After more than two decades in crop insurance, he says having a trusted team behind him allows him to focus on what matters most: helping farmers protect their operations and manage risk with confidence.
Partner with us
If you're interested in learning more about AgriSompo's agent-focused tools, industry expertise and commitment to supporting crop and livestock agents, visit the Partner with Us page. Complete the contact form to connect with our team and learn how AgriSompo can help support your success.