Need flexible payment options for your insurance premiums? First Insurance Funding makes premium financing simple for businesses and individuals. Instead of draining cash reserves with a single large payment, premium financing allows you to spread insurance costs over manageable monthly installments — preserving working capital for growth, emergencies, and operational needs. For businesses navigating commercial insurance requirements and families facing substantial policy premiums, premium financing transforms an annual burden into a predictable, budget-friendly expense.
What You Need to Know: First Insurance Funding (FIRST) is one of the largest premium finance companies in North America, with over $16 billion in loans financed annually. As a division of Lake Forest Bank & Trust Company, N.A., and backed by Wintrust Financial Corporation — a $65 billion publicly-traded financial holding company — FIRST has provided superior, innovative, and flexible premium financing services for more than 30 years. The company serves customers throughout all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada, offering customized financing solutions for property and casualty insurance, life insurance policies, and specialized commercial coverage.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about First Insurance Funding: what it is, how premium financing works, how to access your account, make online payments, understand services offered, and navigate common questions about this essential financial tool.
What Is First Insurance Funding?
First Insurance Funding is a premium finance company that provides loans to help businesses and individuals pay insurance premiums through installment plans rather than lump-sum payments. Instead of paying the full annual insurance premium upfront — which could be thousands or even millions of dollars for commercial policies — policyholders work with FIRST to finance the premium over several months, typically with monthly payments.
The Corporate Structure
FIRST Insurance Funding is a division of Lake Forest Bank & Trust Company, N.A., which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wintrust Financial Corporation. This relationship is significant: Wintrust is a publicly-traded financial holding company (NASDAQ: WTFC) with approximately $65 billion in assets, fifteen community bank subsidiaries, and over 170 banking locations.
This corporate backing provides FIRST with exceptional financial stability, regulatory oversight, and the ability to offer comprehensive financial solutions beyond basic premium financing — including perpetuation and acquisition lending, treasury management, corporate plan services, capital leasing, and more.
What Is Premium Financing?
Insurance premium financing is essentially a loan that allows policyholders to pay their insurance costs in smaller, manageable installments rather than one large upfront payment. Here’s how it differs from simply paying monthly directly to your insurer:
Direct Insurer Installments: Many insurers offer monthly payment options, but these often come with administrative fees, interest charges averaging 20-30% APR, and may have limited flexibility.
Premium Finance Companies: Specialized lenders like FIRST pay your full premium to the insurance company immediately, then you repay the premium finance company through structured installment plans. FIRST negotiates customized rates and terms, often more favorable than insurer-direct financing, especially for commercial policies.
History and Development
Founded in 1990 by Frank Burke, FIRST Insurance Funding began as a small company reimagining what premium financing could be. Around the same time, Ed Wehmer opened community banks in northern Chicago suburbs, eventually merging them to form Wintrust Financial Corporation in 1996.
The synergy between Wintrust’s banking expertise and FIRST’s premium finance innovation created a powerful financial services platform. From $400 million in annual commercial property and casualty loan volume in 1997, FIRST has grown exponentially to over $16 billion annually today.
In 2012, Wintrust expanded FIRST’s reach by acquiring Macquarie Premium Funding Inc., launching premium financing services in Canada with approximately $220 million in receivables.
How Does First Insurance Funding Work?
Understanding the premium financing process helps you make informed decisions about whether this payment option suits your financial situation.
The Premium Financing Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Client Chooses Insurance Coverage
The process begins when you (or your business) select an insurance policy through an insurance agent or broker. This could be:
- Commercial property and casualty insurance
- Workers’ compensation coverage
- Professional liability insurance
- General liability policies
- Life insurance (through Wintrust Life Finance)
- Any combination of business insurance coverages
Your agent provides policy details and the total annual premium cost.
Step 2: Agent Provides Premium Finance Quote
Your insurance agent enters basic policy details into FIRST’s online system and receives an instant quote showing available payment terms. The quote includes:
- Down payment amount (typically 10-25% of the premium)
- Number of monthly installments (usually 9-10 months)
- Interest rate or installment fees
- Total cost of financing
For smaller policies ($1,251-$3,000), FIRST may offer installment plans with a flat fee per installment and no interest. Larger policies have customized terms based on policy size, industry risk, and customer creditworthiness.
Step 3: Client Agrees to Finance Their Premium
If you choose to finance your premium rather than pay in full, you review and electronically sign the Premium Finance Agreement (PFA). FIRST has streamlined this process through integrations with platforms like ePayPolicy, allowing you to complete enrollment with e-signed agreements and automatic payment setup in a single online session.
Step 4: FIRST Provides the Funding
Once the agreement is signed and down payment received, FIRST pays the full insurance premium directly to your insurance carrier. Your insurance coverage begins immediately — you’re fully insured from day one, even though you haven’t paid the full premium yet.
This is the critical value of premium financing: your business or family enjoys complete insurance protection without exhausting cash reserves.
Step 5: Client Makes Installment Payments
You make scheduled monthly payments to FIRST according to your Premium Finance Agreement. These payments can be made through multiple convenient methods:
- Online through the FIRST InSite portal (available 24/7/365)
- Automatic payments via ACH or credit card (no fees for ACH)
- Phone payments (automated system or live representatives)
- Mail (checks sent to payment processing center)
FIRST provides comprehensive account management tools, including payment reminders, balance tracking, and customer service support.
Real-World Example
Scenario: A small manufacturing business needs commercial insurance coverage totaling $24,000 annually (general liability, property, workers’ compensation).
Without Premium Financing: The business must pay $24,000 upfront, significantly impacting cash flow and potentially requiring a business line of credit or delaying equipment purchases.
With First Insurance Funding:
- Down payment: $2,400 (10%)
- Financed amount: $21,600
- Monthly installments: $2,400 for 9 months
- Interest/fees: Approximately $1,200 annually (varies by creditworthiness)
- Result: The business maintains $22,000+ in working capital for the first month, spreading the cost over time while enjoying full insurance protection immediately.
How to Log In to First Insurance Funding Account
FIRST provides separate login portals for clients (insureds) and insurance agents, each tailored to specific account management needs.
Client Login: FIRST InSite Portal
Policyholders access their premium finance accounts through the FIRST InSite portal, available 24/7/365 online or via mobile app.
Accessing FIRST InSite:
- Visit firstinsurancefunding.com
- Click the “Login” or “FIRST InSite” button (typically in the top right corner)
- You’ll be redirected to pbs.first-quotes.com/customerlogin.aspx
- Enter your Username (Access ID)
- Enter your Password
- Click “Sign In”
First-Time Users:
If you’re logging in for the first time, find your username and temporary password in your Welcome Letter/Notice of Acceptance that FIRST mailed or emailed after your loan was booked. You’ll be prompted to change your temporary password to a secure permanent password during your first login.
What You Can Do in FIRST InSite:
Once logged in, policyholders can:
- View current loan balance and payment history
- Make one-time payments by credit card or bank account (ACH)
- Set up AutoPay for recurring automatic payments (no fees for ACH)
- Download billing statements and Premium Finance Agreements
- Update contact information and communication preferences
- Enable eStatements for email delivery of billing notices
- Chat with customer service representatives (Monday-Friday, 7 AM – 7 PM CST)
Mobile App Access:
Download the FIRST InSite Mobile App from your smartphone’s app store to access your account on the go. The mobile app provides full functionality: payments, account viewing, statement downloads, and customer service chat.
Agent Login: FIRST Agent Portal
Insurance agents and brokers access a separate portal designed for managing client financing accounts and initiating new premium finance applications.
Agent Portal Features:
- Enter new premium finance applications and receive instant quotes
- View client account statuses and payment histories
- Confirm client payments and loan standing
- Generate Premium Finance Agreements electronically
- Access commission information and payment tracking
- Utilize integrated tools for workflow efficiency
Agents receive welcome emails with login instructions when they begin partnering with FIRST. The portal includes training resources, dedicated relationship manager support, and integration capabilities with agency management systems.
Troubleshooting Login Issues
Forgot Password:
- Click “Forgot your password?” on the login screen
- Enter your username and registered email address
- Follow instructions in the password reset email
- Create a new secure password
Username Issues:
If you’ve forgotten your username, contact FIRST Customer Service at 800-837-3707 (Monday-Friday, 7 AM – 7 PM CST) for assistance.
Account Not Found:
This typically means your loan hasn’t been fully processed yet. Wait for your Welcome Letter/Notice of Acceptance, which contains your login credentials and confirms your account is active.
Technical Difficulties:
Clear your browser cache, ensure you’re using an updated browser, or try accessing from a different device. If problems persist, contact technical support through the phone number above.
How to Make Online Payments to First Insurance Funding
FIRST offers multiple convenient payment methods, with online payments being the fastest and most efficient option.
Online Payment Methods
1. FIRST InSite Portal (24/7/365)
Log into your FIRST InSite account at firstinsurancefunding.com:
- Navigate to the Payments tab
- Select Make a Payment
- Choose payment method:
- Enter payment amount (minimum payment or custom amount)
- Confirm transaction details
- Submit payment
Payments post to your account within one business day. For ACH payments, funds are withdrawn 2 business days after the effective transaction date.
2. AutoPay (Recurring Automatic Payments)
The easiest way to ensure you never miss a payment is setting up AutoPay:
- Log into FIRST InSite
- Click the AutoPay tab
- Choose payment method (ACH bank account or credit card)
- Confirm payment date and amount
- Activate AutoPay
Benefits of AutoPay:
- No fees for ACH autopay
- Prevents late payments and potential policy cancellations
- Set-it-and-forget-it convenience
- Can be modified or cancelled anytime through your account
3. Mobile App Payments
Use the FIRST InSite mobile app to make payments from your smartphone:
- Open the app and log in
- Select Pay Now or Manage Payments
- Choose payment method and amount
- Confirm and submit
The mobile app provides the same functionality as the web portal with added convenience for on-the-go account management.
Alternative Payment Methods
Pay By Phone (24/7/365)
Call 800-837-3707 and follow automated prompts to pay with your bank account. Spanish-speaking representatives are available upon request during business hours (Monday-Friday, 7 AM – 7 PM CST).
Mail Payments
Standard Mail:
First Insurance Funding
P.O. Box 7000
Carol Stream, IL 60197-7000
Express/Overnight Mail:
First Insurance Funding
450 Skokie Blvd., Suite 1000
Northbrook, IL 60062
Allow additional time for mailed payments to post to your account.
Cash Payments (Western Union)
FIRST accepts cash payments through Western Union services, though fees apply. This option is useful for customers who prefer or require cash transactions.
Wire Transfers
For large payments or time-sensitive transactions, wire transfers are available. Contact customer service for wire transfer instructions.
Payment Security
All online transactions occur using FIRST’s secure servers located in a secured data center with controlled access. The platform uses 128-bit SSL encrypted sessions and masks bank account numbers to protect your sensitive financial information.
FIRST is PCI Level-1 compliant through its partnership with ePayPolicy, ensuring the highest standard of payment card industry security.
Payment Fees
- ACH (bank account) payments: No fees
- Credit card payments: Fees may apply; check during payment process
- AutoPay via ACH: No fees
- Mailed check payments: No fees
Transaction Limits
The maximum single transaction limit is $9,999,999.00, accommodating even the largest premium finance accounts.
Services Offered by First Insurance Funding
FIRST provides comprehensive premium financing and complementary financial services designed to meet diverse client needs.
Core Premium Financing Services
Commercial Property & Casualty Financing
FIRST’s flagship service finances commercial insurance policies including:
- General liability insurance
- Commercial property coverage
- Workers’ compensation
- Professional liability (errors & omissions)
- Cyber insurance
- Commercial auto policies
- Umbrella and excess liability coverage
- Specialized industry-specific policies
With over $16 billion in annual loan volume, FIRST handles policies ranging from small businesses with $5,000 premiums to large corporations with multi-million-dollar insurance programs.
Life Insurance Premium Financing
Through Wintrust Life Finance (a related division), FIRST provides specialized financing for high-net-worth individuals and corporations purchasing large life insurance policies. Life insurance premium financing enables wealthy clients to obtain substantial coverage while preserving liquid assets for investment opportunities that may yield higher returns than the financing costs.
As of 2025, SOFR-based life insurance premium financing rates average 6.2-7.5% annually. This product typically requires minimum net worth of $5 million, though some programs are accessible at lower thresholds.
Canadian Premium Financing
FIRST Insurance Funding of Canada offers property and casualty premium financing throughout Canada. This division was established through Wintrust’s 2012 acquisition of Macquarie Premium Funding Inc., providing comprehensive payment solutions tailored to the Canadian insurance market.
Policyholder Account Management
FIRST provides robust account management tools through the FIRST InSite platform:
- 24/7/365 online access to account information
- Mobile app for on-the-go management
- Automated phone system for immediate assistance
- Live customer service representatives (Monday-Friday, 7 AM – 7 PM CST)
- Email and live chat support
- eStatements for paperless billing
Agency and Broker Partnership Programs
FIRST partners with thousands of independent insurance agents and brokers nationwide, providing:
- Instant Quote System: Real-time premium finance quotes through online portal
- Integration Solutions: Seamless connections with agency management systems and insurtech platforms like ePayPolicy
- Customized Rate Programs: Personalized rates and terms that align with agency revenue goals
- Dedicated Relationship Managers: Over 35 relationship managers across the nation providing personalized support
- Commission Upfront: Agents receive their full commissions immediately when FIRST pays the insurer
- Reduced Receivables: Eliminates agency burden of managing client payment collections
Custom Financing Solutions
FIRST offers specialized financing arrangements for unique situations:
- Small Business Programs: Tailored solutions for businesses with modest insurance needs
- Program Business Financing: Customized plans for insurance programs and managing general agents
- Captive Insurance Financing: Specialized solutions for companies with captive insurance arrangements
- Website Payment Integration: Embedded payment options for agencies offering online quotes
Complementary Financial Services
Through the Wintrust relationship, FIRST can provide insurance agencies and their business clients with comprehensive financial solutions beyond premium financing:
- Perpetuation and acquisition lending for agencies buying or selling books of business
- Treasury management and cash management services
- Corporate retirement plan services
- Equipment and capital leasing
- Banking services through Wintrust community banks
Benefits of Using First Insurance Funding
Premium financing through FIRST delivers tangible advantages for policyholders, insurance agencies, and brokers.
For Policyholders
Cash Flow Flexibility
The primary benefit is preserving working capital. Instead of paying $20,000, $50,000, or more upfront for annual insurance premiums, businesses spread costs over manageable monthly installments. This capital preservation enables:
- Investment in growth initiatives (inventory, equipment, hiring)
- Maintenance of healthy cash reserves for emergencies
- Improved short-term liquidity management
- Ability to purchase adequate insurance coverage without financial strain
No Large Upfront Payments
Many businesses, especially small and mid-sized companies, struggle to allocate large lump sums for insurance when cash flow is tight or seasonal. Premium financing eliminates this barrier, ensuring businesses maintain proper insurance protection regardless of temporary cash constraints.
Secure, Automated Billing
FIRST’s AutoPay feature and comprehensive online account management provide peace of mind:
- Set recurring payments and never worry about missed deadlines
- Receive email reminders and eStatements
- Access account information anytime, anywhere
- Immediate payment confirmation
Trusted by Leading Insurers
With more than 30 years in business, over $16 billion in annual loan volume, and backing by a $65 billion financial holding company, FIRST offers stability and reliability that smaller premium finance companies cannot match. Major insurance carriers and brokers across North America trust FIRST to handle their clients’ premium financing.
For Insurance Agents & Brokers
Provide Payment Options That Increase Sales
Offering premium financing gives agents a competitive edge — clients are more likely to purchase adequate coverage when they can spread costs over time. This increases policy sales and average premium per client.
Receive Commission Upfront
When FIRST pays the insurance carrier, agents receive their full commissions immediately rather than waiting for clients to make installment payments. This accelerates agency cash flow significantly.
Reduce Receivables and Administrative Burden
Without premium financing, agencies that offer direct installment billing must manage collections, track payments, handle delinquencies, and absorb bad debt risk. FIRST handles all billing, collections, and credit risk, freeing agents to focus on sales and service.
Stand Out from Competition
Agencies partnering with FIRST can offer flexible payment solutions that competitors may not provide, differentiating themselves in crowded insurance markets.
Access to Advanced Technology
FIRST provides integration with leading agency management systems, electronic signature capabilities, instant quote generation, and seamless workflows that improve efficiency.
First Insurance Funding for Agents & Brokers
FIRST has built its reputation on being a true partner to insurance professionals, not just a vendor.
How Agents Offer Premium Financing
1. Partnership Establishment
Insurance agencies interested in offering FIRST premium financing contact the company to establish a partnership. FIRST assigns a dedicated Relationship Manager who works with the agency to set up systems, customize rate programs, and provide training.
2. Integration and Setup
FIRST offers multiple integration options:
- Direct API Integration: Seamless connection with agency management systems (AMS) like Applied Epic, Vertafore, and others
- ePayPolicy Integration: Through Finance Connect, agencies can offer financing right at online checkout with automated PFA generation
- Manual Portal Entry: For agencies preferring standalone access, the agent portal allows quote entry and application processing
3. Quoting and Application
When a client needs insurance, the agent:
- Enters basic policy information into FIRST’s system
- Receives instant quote with down payment and monthly installment terms
- Presents financing option alongside pay-in-full option
- Client reviews and e-signs Premium Finance Agreement
- FIRST books the loan and notifies all parties
Agent Portal Features
The FIRST agent portal provides comprehensive tools for managing client financing:
Client Management:
- View all financed client accounts
- Check payment status and loan standing
- Receive alerts for client delinquencies
- Access complete payment histories
Financing Setup:
- Generate instant quotes for new policies
- Create and send Premium Finance Agreements electronically
- Track application status from submission to approval
- Manage mid-term endorsements and policy changes
E-Signature Capabilities:
Premium Finance Agreements can be signed electronically, eliminating printing, scanning, and mailing delays.
Support and Resources
FIRST provides extensive support for partner agencies:
- 35+ Relationship Managers across the United States offering personalized service
- Training programs for agency staff on premium finance best practices
- Marketing materials to help agencies promote financing options to clients
- Technology support for integration and troubleshooting
- Customer service team available Monday-Friday, 7 AM – 7 PM CST
Revenue Opportunities
Beyond receiving commissions upfront, agencies benefit from increased policy retention — clients who finance their premiums are more likely to renew year after year, providing stable recurring revenue.
Is First Insurance Funding Legit?
Given the financial stakes involved in premium financing, verifying the credibility and legitimacy of the lender is essential.
Corporate Legitimacy and Financial Backing
First Insurance Funding is absolutely legitimate — it’s a division of Lake Forest Bank & Trust Company, N.A., which is regulated as a national bank under federal banking laws.
Lake Forest Bank & Trust is wholly owned by Wintrust Financial Corporation (NASDAQ: WTFC), a publicly-traded company subject to Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) oversight, FDIC regulation, and rigorous financial reporting requirements.
Key Credibility Indicators:
- Over 30 years in business (founded 1990)
- $16+ billion in annual loan volume — one of the largest premium finance companies in North America
- 300+ dedicated employees across multiple U.S. offices
- Publicly-traded parent company with approximately $65 billion in assets
- Operates in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada with proper licensing
Regulatory Oversight
As a division of a federally-chartered bank, FIRST operates under comprehensive regulatory supervision including:
- Federal banking regulations enforced by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC)
- Consumer protection laws including Truth in Lending Act (TILA) requirements
- Fair lending practices and equal credit opportunity regulations
- State-level insurance premium finance regulations in each jurisdiction where it operates
Client Trust and Industry Reputation
FIRST has established itself as a leader in the premium finance industry through:
- Exclusive partnerships with leading insurance industry associations
- Recognition for innovation in insurtech integration and digital transformation
- Best-in-class customer service ratings with dedicated support teams
- Transparent operations with clear terms, accessible customer service, and comprehensive online account management
User Reviews and Experience
While individual experiences vary, FIRST’s longevity, scale, and financial backing from a publicly-traded institution provide strong evidence of operational integrity and customer satisfaction. The company’s growth from $400 million to $16+ billion in annual loan volume over two decades demonstrates sustained customer and industry confidence.
Does Life Insurance Funds Pay Debts First Before Beneficiaries?
This common question arises when people research “first insurance funding” and encounter information about life insurance — though it’s separate from First Insurance Funding the company.
The General Rule: Life Insurance Typically Bypasses Debts
In most cases, life insurance proceeds go directly to named beneficiaries without being used to pay the deceased person’s debts. Here’s why:
Life Insurance as a Non-Probate Asset
Life insurance is considered a “non-probate asset” that transfers outside the probate process where estates are settled and debts paid. When you name a beneficiary on your policy, they have a direct contractual right to receive the death benefit regardless of your outstanding debts.
This protection is by design — life insurance exists to provide financial security for loved ones after you’re gone, not to satisfy creditors.
Creditors Generally Cannot Access Life Insurance
Creditors typically cannot go after life insurance death benefits, retirement accounts, or living trusts to pay off debts. These assets belong to the beneficiaries, not the estate.
Important Exceptions: When Life Insurance Could Pay Debts
There are specific circumstances where life insurance proceeds might be used to pay debts before reaching beneficiaries:
1. No Named Beneficiary or Estate as Beneficiary
If the policyholder doesn’t designate a beneficiary, or if all named beneficiaries have died before the policyholder, the insurance proceeds default to the policyholder’s estate. Once part of the estate, these funds become subject to creditor claims during probate.
Similarly, if the policy explicitly names the estate as the beneficiary, proceeds will be used to pay debts, taxes, and expenses before distribution to heirs.
2. Estate Tax Liability
For very large estates subject to federal or state estate taxes, life insurance payouts may be used to cover tax obligations. Though life insurance death benefits themselves aren’t typically taxable income to beneficiaries, they can be included in the estate’s value for estate tax calculation if the deceased owned the policy.
To avoid this, high-net-worth individuals often place life insurance policies in irrevocable life insurance trusts (ILITs), removing them from the taxable estate.
3. Outstanding Liens or Judgments
In limited circumstances involving specific liens, judgments, or government debts, creditors may be able to claim a portion of insurance benefits. This is rare and typically involves exceptional situations like tax liens or court-ordered restitution.
4. Beneficiary Is a Minor
If beneficiaries are minors, the probate court may become involved to establish guardianship of the funds until they reach age of majority. While this doesn’t make the funds available to creditors, it does involve court oversight.
Best Practices to Protect Beneficiaries
To ensure life insurance proceeds reach your intended beneficiaries without estate complications:
- Name specific beneficiaries (individuals, not “estate”)
- Designate contingent beneficiaries in case primary beneficiaries predecease you
- Keep beneficiary information updated after life changes (marriage, divorce, births, deaths)
- Consider an irrevocable life insurance trust for large policies subject to estate taxes
- Write the policy in trust to bypass probate entirely
First Insurance Funding Contact Information
FIRST provides multiple channels for customer support and agent services.
Customer Service (Policyholders)
Phone: 800-837-3707
- Automated system available 24/7/365
- Live representatives Monday-Friday, 7 AM – 7 PM CST
- Spanish-speaking representatives available upon request
Email: csr@firstinsurancefunding.com
Online Support:
- Website: www.firstinsurancefunding.com
- Login Portal: pbs.first-quotes.com/customerlogin.aspx
- Live Chat: Available when logged into FIRST InSite (Monday-Friday, 7 AM – 7 PM CST)
Agent & Broker Support
Phone: 800-837-3707 (same number, different support team)
Relationship Managers: Over 35 dedicated relationship managers provide personalized support to partner agencies across the U.S.
Office Locations
Corporate Headquarters:
450 Skokie Blvd., Suite 1000
Northbrook, IL 60062
Regional Offices:
East Coast:
1747 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 22
Islandia, NY 11749
West Coast:
1300 Quail Street, Suite 205
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Mailing Address for Payments
Standard Mail:
First Insurance Funding
P.O. Box 7000
Carol Stream, IL 60197-7000
Express/Overnight Mail:
First Insurance Funding
450 Skokie Blvd., Suite 1000
Northbrook, IL 60062
Social Media and Professional Networks
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/first-insurance-funding
- Facebook: (check official website for links)
Accessibility Services
FIRST can accept calls utilizing Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) for hearing or speech-impaired customers. The company is committed to accessibility and provides accommodations as needed.
FAQs — First Insurance Funding
Can you pay First Insurance Funding online?
Yes, policyholders can pay First Insurance Funding online 24/7/365 through the FIRST InSite portal at firstinsurancefunding.com. After logging in, you can make payments securely via ACH (bank account) with no fees, or by credit card (American Express, Mastercard, Visa, Discover accepted; fees may apply). You can also set up AutoPay for recurring automatic payments to ensure you never miss a due date.
What is First Insurance Funding?
First Insurance Funding is one of the largest premium finance companies in North America, helping businesses and individuals pay insurance premiums through manageable monthly installments rather than lump-sum payments. As a division of Lake Forest Bank & Trust Company, N.A., and backed by Wintrust Financial Corporation (a $65 billion publicly-traded holding company), FIRST provides financing for commercial property and casualty insurance, life insurance, and specialized coverage across all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada.
Does life insurance funds pay debts first before beneficiary?
No, in most cases life insurance benefits go directly to the named beneficiary, bypassing creditors. Life insurance is a non-probate asset that transfers outside the estate settlement process where debts are paid. However, there are exceptions: if no beneficiary is named or the estate is named as beneficiary, proceeds become part of the estate and can be used to pay debts before distribution to heirs. To protect beneficiaries, always name specific individuals and keep beneficiary designations updated.
How did the first insurance fund develop?
The concept of insurance funding originated centuries ago when communities created mutual aid societies to pool resources and spread financial risk — early forms of collective insurance. Modern premium financing developed in the mid-20th century as specialized finance companies recognized that businesses needed capital-efficient ways to purchase insurance without depleting cash reserves. First Insurance Funding specifically was founded in 1990 by Frank Burke and has grown to become one of North America’s largest premium finance companies with over $16 billion in annual loan volume.
How does First Insurance Funding work?
First Insurance Funding works by paying your full insurance premium directly to your insurance carrier upfront, then you repay FIRST through affordable monthly installments with interest or fees. The process is simple: your insurance agent provides a quote with financing terms, you review and e-sign the Premium Finance Agreement, FIRST pays your insurer, and you make scheduled payments through online, phone, mail, or automatic withdrawal options. This preserves your working capital while ensuring you have complete insurance protection immediately.
What are First Insurance Funding’s interest rates?
Interest rates and fees vary based on loan size, creditworthiness, industry risk, and policy type. For smaller commercial policies ($1,251-$3,000), FIRST may offer flat installment fees with no interest (e.g., $12 per installment). Larger policies have customized rates, typically competitive with or better than insurer-direct financing options which average 20-30% APR in the market. Life insurance premium financing through Wintrust Life Finance currently averages 6.2-7.5% annually based on SOFR rates. Contact FIRST or your insurance agent for specific quotes tailored to your situation.
How do I reset my First Insurance Funding password?
To reset your FIRST InSite password, visit the login page at pbs.first-quotes.com/customerlogin.aspx and click “Forgot your password?”. Enter your username and registered email address, then follow the instructions in the password reset email. If you’ve forgotten your username or need additional assistance, contact FIRST Customer Service at 800-837-3707 Monday-Friday, 7 AM – 7 PM CST.
Expert Tips for Using First Insurance Funding Efficiently
Maximize the value of premium financing with these strategic approaches.
Set Up AutoPay to Avoid Missed Payments
The single most important step is enrolling in AutoPay through your FIRST InSite account. Missed payments can result in late fees, potential policy cancellation, and damage to your credit. AutoPay via ACH has no fees and ensures payments process automatically on schedule.
Track Due Dates Via the Portal
Even with AutoPay enabled, regularly log into FIRST InSite to monitor your account. Verify payments processed correctly, check your remaining balance, and ensure your payment method information is current. The mobile app makes this convenient to do from anywhere.
Review Financing Terms Carefully Before Signing
Before signing your Premium Finance Agreement, understand:
- Total cost of financing (interest/fees)
- Down payment amount and due date
- Number and amount of monthly installments
- Cancellation provisions if you cancel your insurance policy mid-term
- Late payment penalties
Compare the total cost of financing versus paying annually to make an informed decision about whether premium financing benefits your specific situation.
Contact Support Early for Renewals or Billing Questions
Don’t wait until payment problems occur. If you anticipate difficulty making a payment, contact FIRST customer service immediately at 800-837-3707. Early communication often allows for solutions like payment schedule adjustments.
When policy renewals approach, work with your insurance agent to secure new financing terms in advance, ensuring seamless coverage continuation without payment gaps.
Leverage Premium Financing for Strategic Cash Management
Use premium financing strategically: if your business has seasonal cash flow, finance premiums during lean months to preserve capital for inventory purchases or operational expenses during peak seasons. The monthly payment structure creates predictable expenses that simplify budgeting and financial planning.
Maintain Accurate Contact Information
Keep your email address, phone number, and mailing address current in your FIRST InSite account. This ensures you receive payment reminders, important notices, and account information without delay. Enable eStatements for immediate email delivery of billing statements.
Final Thoughts — Why First Insurance Funding Simplifies Premium Payments
Premium financing through First Insurance Funding transforms insurance from a burdensome annual expense into a manageable monthly cost that preserves cash flow and enables businesses and families to maintain adequate protection. For over 30 years, FIRST has demonstrated consistent reliability, innovation, and customer-focused service that has made it one of North America’s largest premium finance companies with $16+ billion in annual loan volume.
The combination of competitive rates, flexible terms, comprehensive online account management, and backing by a stable $65 billion financial institution makes FIRST a trusted partner for thousands of insurance agencies and hundreds of thousands of policyholders nationwide.
Whether you’re a business owner navigating complex commercial insurance requirements, a high-net-worth individual considering life insurance premium financing, or an insurance agent seeking to provide better payment options for your clients, First Insurance Funding offers the tools, technology, and financial strength to support your needs.
The ease of online payments through FIRST InSite, the security of AutoPay, and the accessibility of 24/7 customer support create a premium financing experience that works for today’s digital-first consumers while maintaining the personalized service that community-focused businesses value.
👉 Plan Your Financial Future with Confidence
Before financing your next insurance premium, ensure your overall financial foundation is solid. Use our free Emergency Fund Calculator to determine your ideal emergency savings target and build a safety net that protects you through unexpected challenges. A robust emergency fund prevents you from relying solely on credit when life throws curveballs, keeping your business and family finances stable.