BOR letter (broker of record)

How the process works

The insured signs a letter, typically on their own letterhead, naming the new broker of record for specific policies or carriers. The new agency delivers it to the carrier. Most carriers then apply a waiting period before the change takes effect, during which the incumbent agent is notified and the insured can rescind by signing a counter letter. The exact rules and timelines vary by carrier.

Confirm which policies the request covers, who must sign, whether the carrier has a waiting or rescission period, and when servicing access changes. Keep the carrier's acceptance with the client record rather than assuming that delivery of the letter completes the transfer.

Why it matters to agencies

A BOR can change the servicing relationship without moving the policy to another carrier. The receiving agency still needs to review the file, understand outstanding work, and confirm access. The letter does not replace that onboarding work or satisfy unrelated underwriting requests.

For an owner, a BOR departure is also useful feedback. Ask what the client needed, what prompted the change, and whether expectations were clear. A record of renewal discussions and service commitments helps the team understand the relationship without guessing at the reason.

What to check before calling the transfer complete

Confirm the carrier's acceptance, the effective date, access to policy documents, and responsibility for any open endorsement or claim handoff. Tell the client who to contact during the transition. The signed letter is the start of that operational handoff.