When it comes to insurance, many people feel like they’re just another number; calling a corporate hotline, waiting on hold, and struggling to get the coverage they actually need. But at Marsh McLennan Agency in Corvallis, Oregon, things work a little differently.
Marsh Mclennan recently hosted the Albany Chamber of Commerce Greeters event, and their team of experienced, independent agents takes a personalized approach, working hard to find coverage solutions that many corporate, captive agents simply can’t offer. Whether it’s personal insurance, commercial coverage, or Medicare assistance, they’re committed to helping people navigate the often-confusing world of insurance with honesty and care.
“We’re problem solvers,” said Wendy Joy, a longtime agent with Marsh McLennan Agency. “If you call a big-name insurer and they say, ‘Sorry, we can’t cover that,’ we want to be the next call you make. As independent agents, we have access to multiple carriers, and we’ll do everything we can to find a solution.”
A Local Team with the Backing of a Global Company
Marsh McLennan Agency may be part of a worldwide insurance network, but their local team remains the same; a group of dedicated professionals who live and work in the Corvallis and Albany area.
“Our agency has been here for years,” Wendy explained. “We started as Western States Insurance, then merged to become PayneWest Insurance, and now we’re part of Marsh McLennan Agency. The name on the door has changed, but our team and our commitment to our clients haven’t.”
One major advantage of being part of a larger company is access to more resources. Many of their agents are licensed in multiple states, which means they can help clients insure homes, businesses, and other properties outside of Oregon, which is a major benefit for people moving, investing, or retiring in other areas.
“If you buy a house in Arizona or Montana, we can still help you,” Wendy said. “Our reach is broad, but our service is still personal.”
Finding Insurance Solutions When Others Can’t
One of the biggest advantages of working with Marsh McLennan Agency is their ability to find coverage for unique or complex situations.
“Some policies are straightforward, but many aren’t,” Wendy shared. “If you have 25 acres and lease part of it out, a lot of standard companies won’t cover that. If you own a business in a high-risk industry, it can be tough to find the right policy. That’s where we come in.”
Unlike captive agents, who can only offer policies from their specific company, Marsh McLennan’s independent agents can shop multiple carriers to find the best fit.
“We’re all pulling from the same pool of insurers,” Wendy explained, “but we have access to more options. If your risk is unusual or challenging, we won’t just give up—we’ll work hard to find something that fits.”
One of the most important things they do is help clients understand their coverage. For example, Wendy often educates homeowners about deductibles—especially the difference between a flat deductible and a percentage-based deductible, which can have a major financial impact.
“If you have a $500,000 home and a 2% deductible, that means you’re paying $10,000 out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in,” she explained. “A lot of people don’t realize that until it’s too late. That’s why we take the time to go over every detail, so there are no surprises.”
Specialized Services for Homeowners, Businesses, and Nonprofits
In addition to Wendy, the team at Marsh McLennan Agency covers a wide range of insurance needs, with specialists in different areas:
- Commercial & Nonprofit Insurance – Andy Tucknott, an experienced agent, works with businesses, architecture firms, and nonprofits, helping them secure coverage in a market that is constantly changing. “Nonprofits, in particular, are facing reduced limits on certain policies, and we’re working hard to find solutions that protect them,” Andy explained. “We also have resources like risk control and claims advocacy that can really make a difference.”
- Personal & Medicare Insurance – YaVon Kerins, a Medicare specialist, is passionate about helping people over 65 find the right health insurance. “I absolutely love what I do,” she said. “Medicare can be confusing, but I’m here to help people make sense of it and find a plan that fits their needs.”
- Wildfire & Emergency Preparedness – Many homeowners are worried about wildfire insurance, especially as premiums rise in high-risk areas. Kristi Tanner helps clients find comprehensive policies that still offer strong protection, even in places like Central Oregon, where coverage is becoming harder to find.
- Personal Insurance & Small Business Coverage – Josh Rosensiek specializes in personal insurance and small business policies, helping clients navigate everything from home and auto coverage to business insurance for entrepreneurs and growing companies. “One of the biggest benefits of working with us is that we can adapt to whatever you need,” Josh explained. “Whether you’re a local family looking for personal coverage or a business owner expanding into multiple states, we have the resources to find the right fit.”
Claims Advocacy: Fighting for Clients When It Matters Most
One of the standout features of Marsh McLennan Agency is their claims advocacy team; a group of former insurance adjusters who work exclusively for Marsh McLennan clients to ensure they get fair claim payouts.
“Insurance claims don’t always go smoothly,” added Josh. “If you’ve ever had a claim that dragged on, got denied, or felt like a constant fight, you know how frustrating it can be. That’s where our advocacy team comes in.”
Instead of leaving clients to battle claims adjusters alone, Marsh McLennan’s dedicated claims team steps in to advocate on their behalf.
“They recover millions of dollars every year for our clients,” Josh said. “And it’s a free service. If you have a claim and something seems off, you have a whole team behind you making sure you get what you’re owed.”
The Marsh McLennan Difference: Local, Personal, and Committed to Clients
At the end of the day, insurance is about more than just policies – it’s about trust. Marsh McLennan Agency’s team takes pride in being accessible, knowledgeable, and truly invested in their clients’ well-being.
“Our job doesn’t end when you buy a policy,” Wendy said. “We want to be the team you call when you have a question, need advice, or just want to make sure you’re protected. We’re not here to sell, we’re here to help.”
If you’re looking for insurance with a personal touch, Marsh McLennan Agency is ready to help, whether you need home, auto, business, nonprofit, or Medicare coverage. Their independent agents will work hard to find the right solution, no matter how complex your situation might be.
Have questions about your insurance? Give Marsh McLennan Agency a call and see how they can help.
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