How to choose a life insurance advisor.
By Venkatesh TK, Founder, AdviceSahi. 20+ years in banking, wealth management and insurance distribution. Updated 16 October 2026.
Choose an advisor who holds a valid IRDAI licence, explains how they are paid, and starts by looking at your existing policies and needs. Verify the licence on the official IRDAI portal before you share documents or pay anything.
How do I check an advisor is licensed?
Ask for the IRDAI licence number and confirm it on the official IRDAI agent locator at agencyportal.irdai.gov.in. Check that the address ends in .gov.in, the name and licence number match, and the licence is active for life insurance. If anything does not match, contact the insurer to confirm.
What should a good advisor ask you?
A good advisor asks about your family, income, loans, goals and existing policies before recommending anything. If the first suggestion is a product, slow down.
How are advisors paid?
Most advisors earn commission from the insurer when you buy a policy. That is normal, but you are entitled to ask what they will earn and whether a cheaper or simpler option exists.
What are the warning signs?
- Pressure to buy or surrender a policy quickly.
- Promises of fixed or guaranteed returns on market linked products.
- Requests to pay money into a personal account.
- Reluctance to put advice or figures in writing.
How does AdviceSahi help?
AdviceSahi lists licensed IRDAI advisors for policy holders who have already looked at their own policies. We verify the licence before an advisor is listed. Your report is shared only after you choose an advisor and consent, and you are never required to speak to one.
Common questions
Is it free to speak to an advisor?
Many advisors earn commission from the insurer, so an initial conversation is often free. Ask them how they are paid.
Can an advisor sell me any insurer product?
It depends on their licence and tie ups. Ask which insurers they work with.
Should I share all my documents at the start?
Share only what is needed, and only with an advisor you have verified. On AdviceSahi, nothing is shared until you choose an advisor and consent.
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What is a life insurance policy check?How much life insurance cover do you need?The free look period in life insuranceThis article is for general information only. It is not financial, tax or insurance advice. AdviceSahi is a technology platform and is not an IRDAI registered entity.