Differences between a broker, GA, WA?

[arnguy]

In PA, up until a few years ago with regard to Life, Accident & Health, and Fixed Annuities, a distinction was made between brokers and agents. There was an experience requirement and testing. I believe it was the same test given to agents, but with a higher passing grade. The only advantage that I was aware of was that as a broker you did not have to file a form and appointment fee for each company you wanted to represent. All that changed and now the license is issued as a producer and the distinction between broker and agent has been eliminated. Now the appointments are made through the company you wish to represent. Some companies waive the appoint fee other require the producer to send in the appointment fee made payable to the state.