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Get a Head Start on AEP: Prep Now for a Successful Enrollment Season

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is one of the busiest and most profitable times of the year for Medicare agents. Between October 15th and December 7th, the demand for knowledgeable, trusted advisors skyrockets. But here’s the truth: agents who wait until the fall to prepare are already behind. It is best to get a head start on AEP before everything piles up.

The most successful Medicare agents treat the months leading up to AEP as preparation time. By getting a head start now, you’ll not only reduce stress but also position yourself to grow your book of business and serve clients more effectively when the rush begins.

Here are some steps you can take right now to set yourself up for your best AEP yet:

Complete Certifications and Training

Staying current with your certifications is critical. Most carriers require agents to complete either AHIP or NABIP certification and plan-specific training before they can begin selling Medicare Advantage or PDP plans during AEP.

• AHIP and NABIP typically launch in June, so mark your calendar.
• Many carriers offer a discount if you complete AHIP through their portal; take advantage of that!
• Start your carrier certifications as soon as possible so they do not pile up (they can be time consuming). This helps you minimize stress as it gets closer to the October deadline.

By getting these done early, you’ll be compliant, confident, and ready to hit the ground running.

Stay Updated on Industry Changes & Training Opportunities

The Medicare landscape is constantly evolving; plan changes, regulatory updates, compliance rules, and new technology are all part of the mix. That’s why staying informed isn’t just helpful; it’s essential.

Take time now to:

• Subscribe to carrier newsletters and CMS updates.
• Attend webinars, workshops, or local training events.
• Engage in forums or networking groups with other Medicare agents.

The more informed you are, the more value you bring to your clients—and the more confident you’ll feel going into AEP.

Click here to view the latest agent events and information.

Prepare and Update Your Marketing Materials

Your marketing materials are your first impression; make sure they’re working for you, not against you.

Before AEP begins, audit and refresh all your materials:

• Brochures
• Flyers
• Business cards
• Educational handouts
• Giveaways or branded items (under $15 for compliance!)

Make sure everything reflects your current branding, includes up-to-date contact information, and is tailored to your audience.

If you’re planning to promote yourself through social media, email, or your website, remember:

• Include all required disclaimers (especially for Medicare Advantage or PDP).
• Double-check whether your materials require HPMS filing and approval.
• For peace of mind, consider working with your compliance department to review and file your materials properly.

Watch a YouTube Video of the CMS proposed changes for CY2026

When in doubt; ask. Staying compliant now saves headaches later.

Test Lead Sources Before the Rush

Not all leads are created equal; the best time to figure out what works is before the pressure of AEP hits.

Now is the perfect time to test and evaluate:

• Digital leads (Google ads, Facebook campaigns)
• Direct mail campaigns
• Community referrals
• Educational events
• Grassroots marketing (partnering with local businesses or pharmacies)

Track metrics like cost per lead, contact rate, appointment set rate, and ultimately, conversion to sale.

Give yourself time to test, and refine your lead strategy so when AEP begins, you’re not guessing, you’re scaling.

Make a Marketing Plan

Don’t wait until October to promote yourself; start building awareness now. Consider:

• Planning grassroots marketing like community events or educational seminars.
• Designing print materials (postcards, flyers, business cards).
• Lining up email campaigns or social media content to build visibility.

Make sure your Permission to Contact (PTC) processes are compliant and ready to go.

Update Tools and Technology

Evaluate whether your current tools are working efficiently:

• Is your CRM user-friendly and up to date?
• Are your quoting tools and enrollment platforms ready?
• Do you need to upgrade your laptop, printer, or internet connection?

Watch a YouTube video on Connecture & Sunfire quoting and enrollment tools

A little tech prep now can save you major headaches later.

Check that your systems are:

• Updated and running smoothly
• Synced across devices
• Easy for both you and your clients to use

Key tools to have ready:

• Online quoting tools – for fast and accurate plan comparisons
• E-app platforms – for secure and paperless enrollment
• Video conferencing tools – for remote appointments
• Electronic scope of appointment (SOA) tools – for compliance

Also, make sure your email, calendar, and CRM are integrated so nothing slips through the cracks.

Learn about Pinnacle’s BOSS agent portal & CRM for agents

By mastering your tech tools before AEP, you’ll boost efficiency, reduce errors, and deliver a smoother experience to every client; earning trust and more referrals.

If you are ready to join the team at Crowe,; click here for online contracting

Take Care of Yourself

Don’t forget: you’re your biggest asset. AEP is a marathon, not a sprint. Use this pre-season time to get into a good routine; physically, mentally, and professionally so you can show up at your best every day during the rush.

Medicare Supplement Free Look Period

If you are an agent who offers Medicare plans, it is important to understand opportunities to provide clients with the coverage they deserve.  For those enrolled in Medicare, supplement plans offer an additional coverage option.  Because choosing the right supplement plan is an important decision, sometimes a client may change their mind. To safeguard against errors, Medicare offers the free look period.  In this post, we discuss the Medicare supplement free look period, why it’s important, and how beneficiaries can use it.

Learn the difference between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans

What is the Medicare Supplement Free Look Period

The Medicare supplement free look period is a time beneficiaries can review their new Medicare supplement plan and, if unsatisfied, make changes without penalty. This period typically lasts for 30 days after the plan’s effective date.

If the client buys a Medicare Supplement policy during their 6-month Medicare Supplement OEP and are unhappy with it, they can change to another Medicare Supplement policy. When the client gets a new (second) Medicare Supplement policy, they have 30 days to decide if they are going to keep it.  This time period is called the 30-day free look period. The client shouldn’t cancel the first Medicare Supplement policy until they are sure they want to keep the second Medicare Supplement policy. Unfortunately, they have to pay both premiums for the month they have both.

Reasons to change a supplement plan

1. Paying for benefits you don’t need.
2. Client needs more benefits.
3. Do not like the insurance company
4. They need a lower cost plan

Are you looking for an FMO, see why you should consider joining the Crowe team!

Why Does the Free Look Period Matter

Peace of Mind

Because choosing a Medicare supplement plan is overwhelming, sometimes beneficiaries make decisions in haste or without full understanding.  This can lead to dissatisfaction. The free look period offers reassurance to beneficiaries, allowing them to thoroughly evaluate their plan and its benefits at their own pace.

Risk Mitigation

Mistakes in selecting a Medicare supplement plan can be costly, both financially and in terms of coverage gaps. The free look period serves as a safety net, enabling beneficiaries to rectify any errors or misunderstandings without facing financial penalties or being locked into a plan that doesn’t meet their needs.

Consumer Protection

The free look period is designed to protect Medicare beneficiaries from being pressured into purchasing plans that may not be suitable for them. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage without feeling rushed or coerced.

Medicare supplement plan comparison – click here

Making the Most of the Free Look Period

Thoroughly Review the Plan

It is important to go over all aspects of the Medicare supplement plans your client is considering.  Please remember, this not only includes coverage but all costs involved.

Compare Plans

To ensure the client has made the best plan choice, agents should comparing it with other available plans. This can help you identify any discrepancies or better alternatives.

Seek Guidance

Beneficiaries should reach out to a licensed insurance agent for assistance. They provide valuable insights and help navigate the confusing landscape of Medicare coverage.

Document Everything

Important: clients should keep detailed records of their conversations with insurance provider representatives.  They need to include any changes made to their plan or communications regarding the free look period. This documentation serves as evidence in the event there are any disputes or discrepancies.

The free look period is an opportunity for beneficiaries to ensure they have the right coverage for their healthcare needs. Individuals who take advantage of the free look can make informed decisions.  They can also, rectify mistakes, and achieve peace of mind regarding their healthcare coverage. Remember, health is invaluable, and the right Medicare supplement plan can make all the difference in accessing quality healthcare.

Medicare Open Enrollment Period

Because there is some confusion as to what the Medicare Open Enrollment Period actually is, we will take a few minutes to explain it.

Many people confuse the term Medicare open enrollment period or OEP and the term Medicare Annual Enrollment or AEP.  It important to understand the differences between these two enrollment periods.

The Medicare OEP, Open Enrollment Period:

This enrollment period takes place each year from January 1 to March 31.  Anyone who is enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) can use this enrollment period to go over their current MA plan and make changes if they are necessary.

What can enrollees do during this time:

• Change from one MA or MAPD (Part C) plan to a different MA or MAPD plan.
• Drop your MA/MAPD plan and go back to Original Medicare (Parts A & B).
• If you go back to original Medicare, you can Enroll in a Medicare PDP prescription drug plan (Part D).

The new plan starts on the first day of the month following the submission of the member’s application.

Please note; the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period is for Medicare Advantage plan members only.

Beneficiaries on Original Medicare cannot switch to a Medicare Advantage plan at this time. If that is what they want to do,  they must wait for the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period. 

The Medicare AEP,  Annual Enrollment Period:

During this enrollment period, it is wise to review your client’s Medicare coverage and make any changes they decide on.  The AEP runs from October 15th through December 7th each year.

What can beneficiaries do during AEP:

Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage (or vice versa).

If you’re enrolled in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) and want to add benefits such as; prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, OTC and more, you may wan to try a Medicare Advantage plan.  On the other hand, if  you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan and want the flexibility of Original Medicare, you can return to it.

1. Change Medicare Advantage Plans: If you’re already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan that doesn’t fully meet your needs, you can explore different plan options in your area.
2. Enroll in a prescription drug plan (Part D): If you don’t have credible prescription drug coverage through your current plan or are in Original Medicare, you can join a standalone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan to help manage medication costs.
3. Enrollees can either switch or drop prescription drug plans: Beneficiaries already enrolled in a Part D plan should compare prescription drug plans each year to ensure they have the most suitable coverage for their needs.
4. Review Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) Policies: Although Medicare Supplement plans are not part of the Annual Enrollment Period, it is a good idea to review these plans annually to assess whether they offer the best coverage for your needs.

Why are the Medicare Open Enrollment Period & Annual Enrollment periods important:

The significance of these enrollment periods is that they allow beneficiaries an opportunity to reassess their healthcare needs as their circumstances change.  This gives them a chance to potentially save money on premiums, deductibles, and copayments or purchase additional coverage.

Anyone who fails to take advantage of this window may be stuck in an ineffective or expensive plan for another year.  This can result in less coverage than they need and higher medical costs.

Tips to Help Clients Make Informed Choices:

1. Assess Current Coverage: Review your client’s current plan to identify any gaps in coverage or services they require. Consider their healthcare expenses over the past year and anticipate any potential changes in healthcare needs for the upcoming year.
2. Compare Plans: Use your resources through connecture or sunfire to compare the various plans available in the area. Look for plans that cover your specific medical needs, including prescription drugs, doctors, and hospitals.
3. Check for Plan Changes: Insurance providers can make changes to their plans each year.  This includes adjustments to premiums, drug formularies, and networks. Be sure you understand how these changes impact coverage and costs.
4. Consider Future Needs: While it’s essential to address current healthcare needs, try to anticipate possible medical events or changes that may require different coverage choices in the future.

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