A surplus lines broker is authorized to place business with

Surplus lines brokers do not place business solely with other agents. While brokers may collaborate with agents, their primary function is to place business directly with insurers, particularly those that are eligible surplus lines insurers, to meet the needs of clients requiring specialized coverage.

Admitted insurers are those that are licensed and regulated by the state insurance department to provide coverage in that state. Surplus lines brokers operate outside this framework and are not authorized to place business with admitted insurers, as their role is focused on accessing non-admitted, eligible insurers for unique risks.

Government insurance programs, such as those provided by federal or state entities, have specific eligibility requirements and are not the typical target for surplus lines brokers. These programs usually cover risks that are not typically insurable through standard methods, but they operate under a different regulatory framework than surplus lines insurance.