An agent is prohibited from performing which of the following actions?

An agent is prohibited from altering an application without prior written approval because such actions can compromise the integrity of the application process and mislead stakeholders. It is crucial for applications to accurately reflect the client's information and intentions, and unauthorized alterations can lead to issues such as denial of coverage or claims, legal ramifications, and damages to the agent's professional reputation. This provision ensures that the application remains consistent, transparent, and compliant with regulatory standards.

The other actions, while possibly discouraged or requiring caution, are not unequivocally prohibited in the same manner. For instance, convincing a client to switch companies could hinge on ethical considerations but may not be outright disallowed. Similarly, refunding part of a commission or making complete comparisons of policies could be permissible depending on the specific circumstances and agreements involved.