I think it would be a stretch to say they are captive, however you're not fully independent either. I'd say about 90% indy...
You just need to put all business that comes as a result of their leads through them. For pretty much all FE cases, this is fine as they offer plenty of carriers. (A true GI being the lone exception)
Now if med supps or term life is a fit for any of your leads, then your carrier list isn't as diversified as these organizations focus primarily on FE.
The other thing I've heard is that some groups within these companies have requirements as far as attending meetings, webinars, etc.
You just need to put all business that comes as a result of their leads through them. For pretty much all FE cases, this is fine as they offer plenty of carriers. (A true GI being the lone exception)
Now if med supps or term life is a fit for any of your leads, then your carrier list isn't as diversified as these organizations focus primarily on FE.
The other thing I've heard is that some groups within these companies have requirements as far as attending meetings, webinars, etc.