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Social Security COLA 2026: What to Expect

Each year, Social Security adjusts benefits through a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) to help offset the impact of inflation. The COLA is tied to the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). It compares inflation from July through September of one year to the same period in the previous year. The official announcement for the Social Security COLA 2026 is usually released in October 2025.

2026 COLA Projections

The Senior Citizens League and other analysts are projecting a 2.7% COLA for 2026. That’s a slight bump compared to 2025’s 2.5% increase and marks the fifth consecutive year with an adjustment above 2.5%.

For the average Social Security retirement benefit of about $2,007 per month, a 2.7% increase means an extra $54 per month, or roughly $648 per year. For someone receiving $1,500 monthly, the raise would be closer to $40 per month.

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Medicare Premiums Could Offset Gains

While a COLA increase is welcome, retirees must also consider rising healthcare costs. WE expect to see an 11.6% rise in Medicare Part B premiums in 2026, jumping from $185 in 2025 to around $206.50 per month.

That increase could significantly cut into the COLA. For many retirees, instead of seeing the full $54 monthly boost, the actual net gain may be closer to $30–$40, depending on their income level and Medicare plan choices.

Why It Matters

A 2.7% COLA may help, but it doesn’t always reflect the real inflation retirees face. Seniors often spend a larger share of their budget on housing, utilities, and especially healthcare; areas where costs are rising faster than the CPI-W measures.

Preparing for 2026

• Budget carefully. Plan for only a modest increase after Medicare deductions.
• Review Medicare options. Choosing the right plan can help you preserve more of your COLA.
• Consider supplemental income. Investments, part-time work, or savings can provide an additional buffer against rising costs.

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Bottom Line

The 2026 Social Security COLA will provide a modest increase, but higher Medicare premiums will likely reduce the real benefit retirees see in their checks. By planning ahead and managing healthcare costs, beneficiaries can make the most of the adjustment.

2026 Medicare IRMAA Amounts 2026: What Beneficiaries Should Expect

If beneficiary income is above certain thresholds, they’ll pay more for Medicare Part B and Part D through an IRMAA; the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount. Because IRMAA is based on your tax return from two years earlier, 2024 income will determine what you owe in 2026. It is important to understand Medicare IRMAA amounts 2026 to budget for the year.

What Is IRMAA

IRMAA adds a surcharge to your Part B and Part D premiums if your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) exceeds the set limits. For Part B, it’s usually withheld from Social Security; for Part D, it’s billed directly. If your income has recently dropped due to retirement, marriage, divorce, or another life-changing event, you can request a reconsideration using SSA Form 44.

Projected 2026 Costs

The standard Part B premium is projected to rise to $202.90/month in 2026, up from $185 in 2025. Even those who don’t pay IRMAA will see higher costs.

For higher-income beneficiaries, surcharges are added in brackets. Here are projected 2026 totals for Part B:

• Income of up to $109,000 (single) / $218,000 (married): pay $202.90 (the standard monthly rate)
• Income levels from $109k–$137k (single)/ $218k–$274k (married): pay $289 for Part B
• Those with income levels $137k–$171k (single)/ $274k–$342k (married): pay $413 for Part B
• Income levels of $171k–$205k (single) / $342k–$410k (married): pay $537
• Beneficiaries who make $205k–$500k (single) / $410k–$750k (married): will pay $661
• Those with income levels over $500k (single) / $750k (married): must pay $702

Part D IRMAA surcharges will also rise, from about $14.50/month in the first bracket up to $91/month for the highest incomes. CMS adds these amounts to the beneficiaries plan premium.

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What This Means for Beneficiaries

• Premiums are climbing, as they do most years. Even without IRMAA, 2026 Medicare costs are higher.
• IRMAA is a “cliff.” Going just $1 over a threshold bumps you into a higher bracket.
• Tax planning matters. Roth conversions, investment sales, and IRA withdrawals can all affect your MAGI.
• Life changes can help reduce an IRMAA. If income drops, beneficiaries may appeal to reduce or eliminate an IRMAA.

Planning Ahead

• Review 2024 tax returns to gauge your 2026 bracket.
• Be aware of income timing; shifting taxable money can prevent reaching income thresholds.
• Keep documentation ready if you need proof for a reconsideration.
• Stay updated on Medicare’s official income release in late 2025 for confirmation of final numbers.

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The projected 2026 IRMAA increases could mean significantly higher Medicare costs for high-income beneficiaries. By planning around your 2024 income now, beneficiaries may avoid unnecessary surcharges and keep more of their retirement income.

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2026 Medicare Part B Costs: What to Expect

Medicare beneficiaries should prepare for higher Medicare Part B costs in 2026. Medicare Part B covers outpatient care such as doctor visits, lab work, preventive screenings, and durable medical equipment. While the official 2026 numbers will be officially released later in 2025, projections show some of the steepest increases in recent years for 2026 Medicare Part B costs.

Projected Premium & Deductible

• The 2025 standard Part B premium is $185/month. Estimates suggest it could rise to about $206.50/month in 2026; an increase of more than 11%.
• The Part B deductible, currently $257, may increase to around $288. After meeting the deductible, beneficiaries generally pay 20% of Medicare-approved amounts for most services.

Income-Related Surcharges (IRMAA)

Higher-income beneficiaries pay more through the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). These surcharges are based on tax returns from two years prior (2024 income for 2026 premiums). Depending on income, premiums could rise from the base $206.50 up to more than $700 per month. Beneficiaries experiencing major life changes such as retirement can appeal their IRMAA through Social Security.

Click here to watch our YouTube video on Medicare Part B IRMA and IEP, SEP rules

Why Costs Are Rising

Several factors drive these increases:

• Rising healthcare costs and higher use of outpatient services
• The aging U.S. population requiring more care
• Inflation adjustments to both premiums and income brackets

Preparing for 2026

• Budget ahead using the projected $206.50 premium and higher deductible.
• Consider supplemental coverage. Medigap policies and Medicare Advantage plans may reduce out-of-pocket costs.
• Manage income carefully. Since IRMAA is tied to taxable income, strategies such as Roth conversions or adjusting withdrawals may help avoid higher surcharges.
• Stay informed. CMS will announce final 2026 premiums and deductibles in late 2025, so review your plan options during Medicare’s open enrollment period.

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Final Thoughts

If these projections hold, 2026 Medicare Part B costs will rise significantly, with some retirees seeing most of their Social Security COLA consumed by the higher premium. The good news is that planning now; whether through financial adjustments or reviewing Medicare coverage, can help soften the impact.

Why Offer Assurity Life Products

When it comes to building a sustainable book of business, choosing the right carriers and product lines can make all the difference. Assurity Life Insurance Company has established itself as a trusted name in the industry, offering a wide range of products designed to meet clients’ needs while also supporting agents with tools for success. We will explain why offer Assurity life products.

A Diverse Product Line

Assurity offers an array of products that go beyond traditional life insurance. From term and whole life insurance to critical illness, disability income, and accidental death coverage, agents have multiple solutions to offer clients at every stage of life. This diversity not only makes it easier to meet client needs but also provides opportunities for cross-selling and deeper client relationships.

Watch a quick video – Why and how to sell ancillary with Medicare in 5 minutes

Competitive Pricing and Flexibility

Assurity is known for affordable premiums and customizable options that fit a wide range of budgets. Flexible underwriting guidelines and product designs mean more clients can qualify for coverage, making it easier for agents to close sales and retain satisfied policyholders.

Strong Reputation and Financial Stability

With more than a century in business, Assurity Life has built a reputation for integrity and financial strength. Clients appreciate working with a company that has staying power, while agents benefit from knowing they’re offering products backed by a reliable and stable insurer.

Agent-Friendly Technology and Support

Assurity provides streamlined e-applications, online quoting tools, and marketing resources that help agents work smarter, not harder. Their agent portal makes it easy to manage applications, track business, and access sales materials. This level of support can reduce time spent on paperwork and increase time spent with clients.

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Opportunities for Growth and Retention

By offering products like critical illness or disability income insurance (often overlooked by other agents), you can stand out from competitors. These coverage solutions can open doors to new clients and provide long-term growth opportunities for your business.

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These products not only bring in additional commission but also increase client loyalty. When clients know you can handle multiple needs, they’re far less likely to shop with another agent.

Preparing for AEP 2026: Boost Your Sales, Retain Clients, and Grow Your Book

The 2026 Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) isn’t just another enrollment season; it’s a golden opportunity to build stronger client relationships and grow your business. With more non–commissionable Prescription Drug Plans (PDPs) and Medicare Advantage (MA) plans in the market, preparing for AEP 2026 is more difficult than ever.

Here’s how you can maximize earnings, protect your clients, and position yourself as the go-to Medicare resource this AEP.

Turn Non-Commissionable Plans Into Revenue Opportunities

Yes, some PDPs and MA plans won’t pay you. But don’t let that stop you from helping your clients:

• Be the expert they trust. Walk them through all available options; even the ones you don’t get paid for. This honesty builds loyalty and keeps them coming back every year.
• Leverage the conversation. Once you’ve solved their drug plan or MA needs, introduce other solutions that can better protect them and generate income for you.
• Think lifetime value, not one commission. The client you help today (even for free) could be the one who buys a Medigap plan, final expense policy, or ancillary product tomorrow.

Promote Medicare Supplements

Medicare Supplements are a powerful tool for agents looking to grow their book with long-term, commissionable business.

• High Deductible Plan G (HDG): Sell the benefits of lower premiums, network freedom, and great cost protection once the deductible is met. Perfect for healthy, budget-conscious clients.
• Plan G or Plan N: Offer predictable out-of-pocket costs and peace of mind. Great for clients leaving MA plans or worried about networks shrinking.
• Target switching opportunities: Use the Medigap Open Enrollment period, guaranteed issue rights, and birthday rules where available to win new clients.

Cross-Sell Ancillary Products to Increase Income

Every client interaction is a chance to protect more of their health and finances. Cross-selling not only grows your revenue; it keeps competitors out of your book.

Products to focus on this AEP:

• Hospital Indemnity Plans – Cover MA plan hospital copays and reduce client financial stress.
• Cancer, Heart & Stroke Policies – Offer lump-sum protection for serious illness expenses.
• Dental, Vision & Hearing Plans – Fill in coverage gaps Original Medicare doesn’t touch.
• Final Expense Life Insurance – Help clients plan for end-of-life costs and leave a legacy.

Watch a YouTube video – Why and how to sell ancillary with Medicare in 5 minutes

Strengthen Client Retention with Education

AEP isn’t just about selling — it’s about proving you’re the trusted Medicare expert year-round.

• Send an AEP prep email or postcard to let clients know you’ll review their coverage.
• Host a quick webinar or local seminar on “What’s New for 2026.”
• Offer annual policy reviews to make sure they’re always in the best plan for their situation.

Education keeps your name top of mind and positions you as the advisor they call before making a move.

The agents who win this AEP will be those who combine client-first service with smart product recommendations. Help with the non-commissionable PDPs and MA plans, but don’t stop there; present Medigap, HDG, and ancillary products that protect your clients’ health and finances while boosting your bottom line.

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Your clients get better coverage, you get stronger renewals, and your book of business grows. That’s a win-win AEP strategy.

The Medigap Birthday Rule: A Unique Opportunity for Medicare Beneficiaries

If you or your clients have a Medicare Supplement plan (Medigap), there’s a little-known rule that can save money and improve coverage and it’s called the Medigap Birthday Rule. This rule is an excellent opportunity for beneficiaries to switch Medigap plans without going through medical underwriting, but it only applies in certain states and during a very specific timeframe. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is the Medigap Birthday Rule

The Medigap Birthday Rule is a state-level regulation that allows Medicare beneficiaries to switch to another Medigap plan with equal or lesser benefits each year around their birthday, without answering health questions or going through medical underwriting.

Normally, after the initial Medigap open enrollment period (which happens when someone first signs up for Medicare Part B), switching Medigap plans could require underwriting; meaning the insurance company can deny coverage or charge more based on health history. The Birthday Rule removes that barrier, making it easier for people to shop for a better premium or a different carrier’s plan.

How the Rule Works

The details of the rule depend on the state you live in, but generally:

• Eligibility: You must already have a Medigap plan in place.
• When You Can Switch: You have a short window each year, usually starting on your birthday (some states give you up to 60 days, others 30).
• What You Can Switch To: You can move to a Medigap plan with the same or lesser benefits; for example, switching from Plan G with one company to Plan G with another, or from Plan F to Plan N.
• No Underwriting: You don’t have to answer health questions, so pre-existing conditions won’t prevent you from switching.

Watch our YouTube video on Medicare Supplement underwriting

States That Offer the Birthday Rule

As of 2025, the Medigap Birthday Rule is available in several states, including:

• California
• Oregon
• Illinois
• Nevada
• Idaho
• Louisiana
• Kentucky (newer version of the rule)

Each state’s version is slightly different, so it’s essential to check the exact length of the switching window and eligibility criteria.

Why the Birthday Rule Matters

For beneficiaries, this rule can mean:

• Lower Premiums: Shop for the same coverage at a better price.
• More Carrier Choices: If you’re unhappy with your current insurer, you can switch without worrying about being declined.
• Guaranteed Access: People with health issues who might otherwise be denied coverage can still change plans.

Tips for Agents

If you’re a Medicare agent, the Medigap Birthday Rule is a perfect client retention opportunity:

• Reach out proactively before a client’s birthday to review their coverage.
• Shop carriers and rates to see if they can save money without losing benefits.
• Build trust by showing clients you’re looking out for their financial well-being.

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This annual touchpoint can strengthen your book of business and help you stay top-of-mind with clients.

The Medigap Birthday Rule is a valuable consumer protection that gives beneficiaries a yearly chance to make their coverage more affordable; no health questions asked. If you or your clients live in a state that offers it, don’t miss this opportunity. Mark those birthdays on the calendar and be ready to take advantage of this unique enrollment period.

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Why Sell Critical Illness Insurance

When it comes to protecting clients from financial hardship, health coverage alone isn’t always enough. The big question is; why sell critical illness insurance. The answer is: as an insurance agent, you already know the cost of a serious illness can go far beyond hospital bills. That’s where this insurance comes in. Offering this valuable coverage to your clients not only strengthens their financial safety net, but also helps your business grow.

What Is Critical Illness Insurance

Critical illness insurance is a supplemental policy that provides a lump-sum cash benefit if the policyholder is diagnosed with a covered illness such as:

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Cancer
• Organ failure
• Major surgery

Unlike health insurance, which pays doctors and hospitals, critical illness insurance puts money directly in your client’s hands to spend however they need.

Why Agents Should Offer It

Fill a Major Coverage Gap

Even clients with excellent health insurance can face substantial out-of-pocket costs; deductibles, co-pays, non-covered treatments, travel expenses for care, and lost income during recovery. Critical illness benefits can bridge that gap, giving clients peace of mind.

Protect Clients’ Financial Well-Being

A major diagnosis can derail a family’s finances. This coverage can help with:

• Mortgage or rent payments
• Childcare
• Utility bills
• Transportation to treatment
• Alternative or experimental treatments not covered by insurance

Helping your clients plan for these “hidden” costs builds trust and shows you care about their full financial picture.

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Create a New Revenue Stream

Critical illness policies are generally affordable and easy to quote. Adding them to your portfolio can boost your sales without requiring significant additional effort. Many carriers offer simplified underwriting and electronic applications, making the process smooth for both you and your clients.

Cross-Sell Opportunities

Critical illness coverage is a natural add-on for clients purchasing:

• Health insurance
• Medicare Advantage or Supplement plans
• Life insurance
• Disability income insurance

By bundling solutions, you create a comprehensive protection plan and increase client retention.

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Stand Out from Competitors

Many agents overlook supplemental health products. Offering critical illness insurance shows that you go beyond the basics and are committed to providing complete risk protection for your clients.

Positioning Critical Illness Insurance with Clients

When discussing this coverage, focus on real-life scenarios and emphasize flexibility:

• “If you were diagnosed with cancer tomorrow, would you have enough savings to cover your expenses while you focus on getting better?”
• “This policy gives you cash you can use however you want – not just on medical bills.”

Simple, empathetic conversations often lead to meaningful sales.

Selling critical illness insurance is more than an opportunity to increase commissions – it’s a way to help clients face one of life’s biggest challenges with confidence. By offering this coverage, you can:

• Strengthen your client relationships
• Provide real financial security
• Build a more resilient, profitable business

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Helping clients prepare for the unexpected is what great agents do. Critical illness insurance is an essential piece of that puzzle.

Compliant Medicare Sales Events: A Guide for Agents

Hosting Medicare sales events is a powerful way to educate beneficiaries, build trust, and grow your Medicare business; but compliance must always come first. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has strict rules about how these events are marketed, set up, and conducted. We go over how to conduct compliant Medicare sales events, Staying compliant protects you from regulatory issues, safeguards beneficiaries, and helps maintain carrier confidence in working with you.

Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Event

Start by deciding what kind of event best serves your audience:

• Formal Sales Events – Structured, scheduled presentations where you review plan-specific information with an invited audience.
• Informal Sales Events – More casual setups, like a table, booth, kiosk, or RV, where you only share plan information if a beneficiary asks for it.

Your choice will determine how you promote the event and the materials you’ll need.

Step 2: Select the Time and Location

After choosing the event type, decide when and where to host it. CMS requires that all sales events:

• Be registered with the carriers you are representing before adverting for it.
• Be held in a public setting where beneficiaries are not actively receiving health care services.

Approved locations include:

• Common entryways and vestibules
• Waiting rooms
• Hospital or nursing home cafeterias
• Community, recreational, or conference rooms

These locations are considered neutral spaces that allow beneficiaries to attend without disrupting care.

Step 3: Market Your Event the Right Way

How you advertise is just as important as what you present. CMS has specific rules for marketing Medicare sales events:

• No mandatory RSVPs – You cannot require attendees to provide personal contact information just to attend.
• Use accurate language – Don’t label the event “educational,” since educational events have different compliance rules. Instead, disclose which products or plans you’ll discuss.
• Include all required disclaimers – Every flyer, invitation, ad, or mailer must include:
  • “Not affiliated with or endorsed by the government or federal Medicare program.”
  • The accommodation statement: “For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings call [insert phone and TTY number].”

If your event involves marketing Medicare Advantage or Part D plans, you must also include the appropriate TPMO (Third-Party Marketing Organization) disclaimer on all event materials:

• If you market fewer than all plans in the area: “We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [insert number of organizations] organizations which offer [insert number of plans] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.”
• If you market all plans in the area: “Currently we represent [insert number of organizations] organizations which offer [insert number of plans] products in your area. You can always contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) for help with plan choices.”

You can promote your event online, through direct mail, social media, or other media channels, just ensure all ads are carrier-approved and compliant.

Step 4: Handling Cancellations

Life happens. You may need to cancel an event due to a family emergency, weather conditions, or other business priorities.

While CMS does not require sales event cancellations to be submitted through HPMS, you should follow these best practices (and your carrier’s policies):

• Notify the carrier or FMO as soon as possible.
• Post a cancellation notice at the event location if feasible.
• If attendees preregistered, notify them promptly through phone, email, or mail.
• Reschedule when appropriate and advertise the new date clearly.

Clear communication helps maintain your professionalism and demonstrates respect for beneficiaries’ time.

Step 5: Run a Compliant Event

Once your event begins, compliance remains front and center:

• Use only CMS-approved materials – Benefit highlights, plan comparisons, and enrollment forms must be pre-approved.
• Stay unbiased and low-pressure – Present information clearly and allow attendees to make their own decisions.
• Provide optional sign-in sheets – Attendees must never be required to share personal information.
• Read required disclaimers at the start – Identify the plans you represent, note that other plans may be available, and clarify that attendance does not obligate enrollment.
• Document everything – Keep a record of your event details, materials used, and sign-in sheets (if any) in case of a CMS audit.

Visit our YouTube channel and review the Medicare AEP marketing rules

Why Compliance Matters

Compliance ensures beneficiaries receive accurate information without feeling pressured. It also protects you from regulatory violations and maintains your reputation as a professional, trustworthy agent.

Tips for a Successful Event

• Prepare and rehearse – A smooth, professional delivery builds credibility.
• Know your material – Be ready to answer common Medicare questions with confidence.
• Engage attendees – Allow time for Q&A and use simple examples to explain benefits.
• Follow up responsibly – Only contact beneficiaries who gave permission to be called.

Stay up-to-date on Medicare agent events and information

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Compliant Medicare sales events not only meet regulatory standards — they build trust, improve client relationships, and set you apart as a professional. By marketing correctly, including the right disclaimers, handling cancellations professionally, and following CMS rules during the event, you’ll grow your business while staying protected.

Medicare and Dental Coverage: What You Need to Know

When people think of Medicare, they often assume it covers all their healthcare need; including dental. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover most routine dental care. This can come as a surprise to new Medicare beneficiaries, and as an agent, it’s important to help clients understand Medicare and dental coverage.

What Original Medicare Covers

Original Medicare only covers dental care in very limited situations; usually when it is part of a hospital stay or a medically necessary procedure. For example:

• Jaw reconstruction after an accident.
• Tooth extractions needed before certain surgeries, such as heart valve replacement.
• Oral exams done in the hospital before a covered procedure.

Routine services like cleanings, fillings, dentures, or root canals are not covered.

Why Dental Coverage Matters

Oral health is closely tied to overall health. Poor dental health can contribute to heart disease, diabetes complications, and infections; all of which are major concerns for Medicare-aged clients. Helping your clients plan for dental costs can protect both their health and their wallets.

Options for Dental Coverage

Here are the most common ways beneficiaries can get dental coverage:

1. Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)
   Many Medicare Advantage plans include dental benefits. Coverage can range from basic preventive care (cleanings, x-rays) to more comprehensive services like crowns, root canals, and dentures. Make sure to compare networks, coverage limits, and annual maximums.
2. Stand-Alone Dental Insurance Plans
   These plans are separate from Medicare and can offer flexible options. Beneficiaries can choose plans based on coverage needs and budget.
3. Discount Dental Plans
   Not insurance, but these plans provide negotiated discounts with participating dentists. They can be a low-cost option for those who only need occasional care.
4. Paying Out-of-Pocket
   Some clients may choose to budget for routine care rather than purchase coverage. This may work for those with minimal dental needs, but it carries financial risk if major dental work is required.

Watch a YouTube video on Individual Dental Plan Sales

Tips for Agents

• Ask about oral health needs during your fact-finding process. This helps you recommend plans that fit your clients’ situation.
• Compare annual maximums carefully — dental coverage is often capped between $1,000–$2,000 per year.
• Educate clients about timing — enrolling in dental coverage early can help them avoid waiting periods for major services.

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Medicare beneficiaries need to know that Original Medicare will not take care of their routine dental needs. By helping them understand their options Medicare Advantage plans, stand-alone dental insurance, or discount plans; you position yourself as a trusted advisor and help them maintain both their oral and overall health.

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Medicare Advantage Unused Benefit Rules – What Agents Need to Know

Medicare Advantage (MA) plans can be a great choice for clients; especially because of their extra perks like dental, vision, hearing, OTC allowances, and fitness memberships. But these benefits often go unused, which can lead to client dissatisfaction and plan switching. Recently, CMS has put some Medicare Advantage unused benefit rules in place.

Here’s what you need to know to guide your clients.

Key Points About Unused Benefits

• Most benefits expire monthly, quarterly, or annually; no rollovers.
• OTC allowances are among the most commonly missed benefits.
• Dental/vision/hearing dollars disappear at year-end if not used.
• Provider networks matter — clients must follow plan rules or they risk missing out on some benefits.

CMS’ Mid-Year Notification Rule

CMS recently finalized a rule requiring MA plans to send personalized mid-year notices (June 30–July 31) showing members which supplemental benefits they haven’t used and how to access them.

However, enforcement is paused for 2026, so most plans will not send these reminders. Some may do so voluntarily, but agents should not assume clients will get them.

Watch a YouTube video: Why agents should include ancillary products with MA sales

Why This Matters for Agents

• Client Retention: Clients often switch plans because they feel they aren’t getting value; even when benefits were available.
• Education Opportunity: Helping clients understand and use their benefits builds trust and keeps them engaged.
• Competitive Edge: Agents who proactively remind clients about OTC orders, dental visits, and other benefits stand out.

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Agents

• Review each client’s benefits during mid-year check-ins.
• Send reminders about quarterly OTC allowances and annual dental/vision appointments.
• Explain provider network requirements to avoid frustration.
• Track CMS updates; when they enforce the rule, you can align your outreach with plan notices.

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Even with CMS’ rule delayed, agents can fill the gap by educating clients and helping them use the benefits they signed up for. Proactive communication strengthens client relationships, improves satisfaction, and keeps your book of business stable.