Which of the following acts is an agent NOT authorized to do on behalf of an insurer?

An agent is typically not authorized to authorize claim payments on behalf of an insurer because this role is generally reserved for adjusters or claims professionals who have the requisite training and understanding of the claims process. The authority of an agent is usually focused on selling insurance policies, collecting premiums, and issuing certificates of insurance.

In the context of an insurance operation, agents serve as intermediaries who facilitate the sale of insurance and manage customer relationships but must operate within the limits set by the insurer. Authorizing claim payments involves a detailed assessment of the claim against the policy and is thus a function that demands specific skills, knowledge, and authority which only certain qualified personnel possess.

By distinguishing the agent's role from that of a claims adjuster, it is clear that while agents can handle many aspects of the insurance transaction process, they do not make final decisions regarding claims payments.