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Medicare Part D Extra Help: What Agents and Beneficiaries Need to Know

When it comes to Medicare, prescription drug coverage can be a very confusing and expensive component for beneficiaries. Fortunately, there’s a federal program called Extra Help, also known as the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), that can significantly reduce those costs. As a Medicare agent, you need to be able to answer the question; what’s Medicare part D Extra Help. Understanding and explaining this benefit can be a game-changer for your clients.

What Is Medicare Part D Extra Help

Extra Help is a program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to assist individuals with limited income and resources in paying for their Medicare Part D prescription drug plan costs. This includes premiums, deductibles, and copayments.

The value of this benefit can be substantial—worth an average of about $5,300 per year (2024 estimate).

Who Qualifies for Extra Help?

To qualify for Extra Help, beneficiaries must meet certain income and resource limits. As of 2025 (these numbers are adjusted annually):

• Income Limits:
  • Individuals: Up to $23,715 annually
  • Married couples: Up to $31,965 annually
• Resource Limits (includes bank accounts, stocks, and bonds; excludes home, car, personal items):
  • Individuals: Up to $17,600
  • Married couples: Up to $35,130

Click here for a LIS Extra Help chart for 2025

Note: People who automatically qualify for Extra Help include those who:

• Have full Medicaid coverage
• Receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Qualify for an MSP (Medicare Savings Program)

What Extra Help Covers

Depending on the level of help a beneficiary qualifies for, Extra Help can:

• Reduce or eliminate monthly Part D premiums
• Lower or remove the annual Part D deductible
• Cap out-of-pocket drug costs

In most cases, those receiving Extra Help will pay:

• Low or no monthly premiums for a benchmark Part D plan
• A small deductible as low as $0
• Low copays (as little as $4.80 for generics and $12.15 for brand-name drugs in 2025) Full-Duals pay $1.60 for generic and $4.80 for brand name drug copays

Watch a quick YouTube video on the Quarterly SEP for Dual and Drug Help Elimination in 2025

How to Apply for Extra Help

• Online at www.ssa.gov/extrahelp
• By calling 1-800-772-1213 (SSA)
• Or by visiting the local Social Security office

As an agent, you can guide clients through the application process, help gather the right documentation, and verify eligibility.

Why Agents Should Care

Helping clients apply for Extra Help not only strengthens your relationship with them but also ensures they can afford necessary medications. When a client qualifies, they may be more willing and able to enroll in or stick with a Part D plan; making this an ideal opportunity to offer value and grow your book of business.

Agents, if you are ready to join the team at Crowe; click here for contracting

SEP for Extra Help Recipients

Don’t forget, beneficiaries who qualify for Extra Help are eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This means they have an SEP to change their Medicare Part D plan once they are approved for extra help.

learn about the SEP Changes for Dual, Partial Dual and LIS members in 2025

Extra Help can be life-changing for Medicare beneficiaries who struggle with prescription drug costs. As an agent, your role in identifying eligibility and guiding your clients through the application process is crucial. It’s a win-win: clients get meaningful financial relief, and you build long-term trust and loyalty.

Stay updated on agent events and information; click here

What Does “Ready to Sell” Mean – A Guide for Medicare Agents

If you’re a Medicare agent gearing up for the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) or planning your year-round sales strategy, you’ve likely heard the term “Ready to Sell” (RTS) from carriers, uplines and other agents. But what does ready to sell mean and why is it so important?

Here’s a breakdown of what “ready to sell” is, why it’s critical for your success, and how to make sure you’re always in good standing with Medicare carriers.

What Is “Ready to Sell”

Ready to Sell means you have completed all the carrier-specific requirements to legally and compliantly market and sell that carrier’s Medicare Advantage (MA), Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MAPD), or Prescription Drug Plans (PDPs).

Until the carrier officially marks you “Ready to Sell”, you cannot:

• Discuss plan details,
• Help clients enroll in a plan,
• Or earn commissions for sales.

What Does It Take to Become RTS

Requirements may vary slightly by carrier, but typically, agents must complete the following steps every year:

1. AHIP Certification
   Most carriers require agents to pass the AHIP (America’s Health Insurance Plans) certification with a score of at least 90%. This ensures they understand Medicare basics and CMS compliance rules.
2. Carrier-Specific Certifications
   Each carrier has its own product training, code of conduct, and compliance modules that must be completed, Usually agents can locate these in the carrier’s online portal.
3. Contracting and Licensing
   Agents must:
   • Be properly licensed in any state(s) they intend to sell in.
   • Complete contracting paperwork and submit background checks when required.
   • Maintain Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance coverage.
4. State Appointments
   In any state you want to sell in, the carrier must appoint you before you can make a sale. Learn why you might want to add non-resident licenses.

Once you complete these steps and the carrier processes them, they’ll update your status to Ready to Sell.

Watch a quick YouTube video “What you need to know before a Medicare sale”.

When To Get Ready to Sell

Early preparation is key. Most carriers open their certifications in either June or July for the up-coming AEP. It is best to finish each one as soon as possible. If you are appointed with several carriers, you do not want to be over whelmed trying to get them all done at once. If you wait too long, you may miss valuable selling time during the busiest part of the year.

What If You’re Not RTS

If you try to present or enroll a client in a plan without a RTS status, you risk:

• Losing your commission
• Contract termination
• CMS compliance violation

Even if you’re well-intentioned, both the carrier and CMS takes these infractions seriously. Always check your RTS status before marketing or discussing plans.

If you are an agent who wants to join the team at Crowe; click here for online contract.

How to Check Your RTS Status

Most carriers notify you by email when you’re Ready to Sell. In most cases, you can find your RTS status on each carrier’s broker portal. Some FMOs (Field Marketing Organizations) also provide consolidated dashboards for multiple carriers, such as Pinnacle’s BOSS portal.

Stay on top of the latest agents events and information; click here

Why Consider a Non-Resident Insurance License

As a Medicare agent, you’re always looking for ways to grow your book of business and expand your earning potential, but what if the opportunity lies outside your home state? Adding a non-resident insurance license is a powerful tool that allows licensed agents to legally sell insurance in states they don’t live in. Whether you’re eyeing snowbird states, helping relocated clients, or expanding your digital reach, here’s why a non-resident license might be your next smart move.

What Is a Non-Resident Insurance License

A non-resident health insurance license allows an agent to sell Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, and Prescription Drug Plans in a state other than where they live. Most states allow agents to apply online through the NIPR (National Insurance Producer Registry) for a streamlined approval process.

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

Reasons to Get Licensed in Other States

1. Follow Your Clients Across State Lines

Clients move, especially seniors who relocate for retirement, family, or health reasons. Having a non-resident license lets you retain your clients, continue to serve them legally, and maintain your commissions even after they move.

2. Target Snowbird States

States like Florida, Arizona, and North Carolina have large populations of retirees; many of whom split their time between two states. If you’re licensed in both their primary and secondary residences, it is easier to meet their unique Medicare needs wherever they are.

3. Take Advantage of Remote Selling

With telesales, Zoom, and electronic applications now standard in Medicare sales, geography is no longer an issue. A non-resident license lets you legally market and enroll beneficiaries remotely in multiple states. For agents who are willing to do the work, this can open the door to unlimited expansion.

4. Participate in Cross-State Lead Programs

Some lead vendors or FMOs offer high-quality leads in multiple states. Without the proper licenses, you’ll miss out. A non-resident license makes you eligible for more lead opportunities.

5. Diversify Your Market

Every state has slightly different demographics, plan availability, and competitive dynamics. Getting licensed in new areas lets you provide service in underserved or less saturated markets where you can stand out and grow faster.

Watch a YouTube video – Choosing the Right Type of Lead

How to Get a Non-Resident License

1. Check requirements on NIPR.com.
2. Have a resident license in good standing.
3. Apply and pay the state-specific fees.
4. Submit to any background checks or documentation requests.
5. Keep up with CE requirements (some states require additional courses).

Keep in Mind

• Carrier Appointments: Getting licensed isn’t enough, you also need to be appointed by each carrier you plan to offer in that state.
• Marketing Rules: Always follow state-specific CMS and state DOI regulations. What works in one state may not work elsewhere.
• Annual Renewal Fees: Each state has its own renewal process and costs. Be sure to check with each carrier you add to see if they also charge a non-resident appointment fee. tHis helps ensure our investment is worth the cost.

Agents; stay up-to-date on events and information

Think Bigger

As the Medicare landscape becomes more competitive, the agents who think strategically and act nationally get ahead. A non-resident license is an investment in flexibility, client retention, and revenue potential. Whether you’re selling virtually or preparing for client moves, now is the time to consider expanding your footprint beyond your home state.

Why Medicare Agents Should Be Selling Critical Illness Insurance

As a Medicare insurance agent, your goal is to ensure clients have the best protection for their individual needs. Although Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans provide essential healthcare coverage, there’s a critical gap often overlooked: the financial impact of a serious illness. This is where selling critical illness insurance can add real value to your clients’ health coverage as well as your business.

What is Critical Illness Insurance

Critical illness insurance pays a lump-sum cash benefit directly to the policyholder upon diagnosis of a covered condition, such as:

• Cancer
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Organ transplant
• Kidney failure

Unlike traditional health insurance, this benefit can be used any way the insured chooses; covering deductibles, copays, for travel, in-home care, or everyday expenses like mortgage or groceries.

Why Medicare Isn’t Enough

Medicare (even with Medigap or Medicare Advantage) doesn’t provide coverage for non-medical expenses that often accompany a serious diagnosis. For example:

• Travel to specialized treatment centers
• Home modifications for accessibility
• Lost income for a spouse who becomes a caregiver
• Alternative treatments not covered by Medicare

Even with excellent coverage, a sudden illness can quickly lead to out-of-pocket expenses that drain savings and add financial stress to an already difficult time.

Watch a quick YouTube video on Why and How to Sell Ancillary with Medicare

How Selling Critical Illness Insurance Enhances Your Portfolio

Solves a Real Problem
Seniors are more likely to suffer from critical illnesses than younger individuals. Offering a solution that provides some financial protection and peace of mind differentiates you as a full service advisor; not just a Medicare agent.

Easy to Explain, Easy to Sell
This product is straightforward: “If you’re diagnosed with a serious illness, you get cash.” There’s no network, no complicated claims process, and no restrictions on how the money is spent.

Cross-Selling Made Simple
The Medicare appointment is the perfect opportunity. You’re already discussing health risks, costs, and coverage gaps. With a natural transition, you can introduce critical illness as a way to fill a major gap without additional appointments or paperwork hurdles.

Important: be sure you include any products you might discuss in each meeting in the Scope of Appointment.

Increased Revenue Per Client
Adding a critical illness policy boosts your earnings while strengthening your client relationship. It’s a win-win: more protection and value for them, more business for you.

Ready to join the team at Crowe; click here for contracting

Overcoming Common Objections

“I already have Medicare.”
Yes, but Medicare doesn’t pay you if you get sick. This policy provides money to help manage the non-medical financial impact of a serious illness.

“I’m on a fixed income.”
That’s exactly why this protection matters. A $20–$30 premium today could prevent thousands in financial burden tomorrow. Be sure you sell plans that fit in the client’s budget, do not over-sell. That only leads to distrust and chargebacks when they cannot afford to pay for the coverage.

Adding critical illness insurance to your Medicare sales is not just smart business; it’s the right thing to do for your clients. It shows you understand their broader needs, care about their financial security, and can offer solutions beyond the basics.

Click here to get up-to-date agent events and information

Grassroots Marketing for Medicare Agents: Building Your Book of Business

In an increasingly digital world, there’s still no substitute for genuine, personal connection; especially in Medicare sales. Grassroots marketing for Medicare agents can be one of the most effective and affordable ways to grow your book of business, especially in local communities where trust and reputation go a long way. Whether you’re a new agent or looking to reinvigorate your outreach strategy, grassroots marketing tactics can build lasting relationships and drive referrals.

Volunteer in Your Community

Volunteering is a powerful way to connect with people on a personal level while giving back. Choose causes that align with your values and attract your target demographic; such as food banks, senior centers, or veterans’ organizations.

Consider wearing a name badge or shirt with your agency’s logo while volunteering, and carry business cards or branded leave-behinds. In these settings, people often ask what you do, giving you a natural way to mention your services.

Ask for Referrals from Satisfied Clients

Even in today’s world; word-of-mouth remains king. Clients who trust you are your best advocates. Don’t be afraid to ask for referrals, just be compliant and tactful in how you do it.

Tools:

• Create business cards for clients to pass to friends. It is a good idea to put a picture of yourself on your cards to help people become familiar with you.
• Follow up with a handwritten thank-you note and a small token of appreciation; such as a $10 coffee gift card or a some small token (keeping it under $15 to stay compliant).

Additionally: Consider including a line on your business card or email signature: “Know someone who has questions about Medicare? I’m happy to assist!”

Build Local Business Relationships

Partner with local businesses that serve your ideal clientele; pharmacies, barbershops, community banks, independent living facilities, senior centers, libraries, etc.

Strategies:

• Offer to leave business cards, flyers or brochures at the front counter.
• Cross-refer: If they refer customers to you, do the same for them.
• Host joint educational events (e.g., “Medicare and Medication Q&A” with a local pharmacist).

Leave-behind ideas:

• Branded pens, pill organizers, or reusable shopping bags are all affordable and practical.

Host Seminars and Educational Events

Educational seminars are a compliant and effective way to attract new prospects. People appreciate clear, unbiased information about Medicare—especially when it’s presented in an easy-to-understand format.

Watch a quick YouTube on Educational Seminar Best Practices

Some Ideas on Where to Host:

• Local libraries
• Senior centers
• Churches
• HOA clubhouses

What to Bring:

• Printed guides or FAQs
• Sign-in sheet (for permission-based follow-up) voluntary only
• Medicare-compliant presentation materials
• Small giveaways like notepads, magnifying glasses, or bookmarks (again, under $15 in value) with your logo and contact information

Be sure to check with carriers and CMS for current marketing rules around events and materials.

Stay updated on agent events and information

Be Where Your Audience Is

Don’t wait for people to come to you; go where they already are.

A Few Ideas:

• Set up an information booth at a farmer’s market or community fair (with proper permission).
• Attend Chamber of Commerce or Rotary Club meetings.
• Sponsor a senior bingo night or lunch-and-learn event.

Use these opportunities to show up as a helpful resource, not a salesperson.

Consistency is Key

Grassroots marketing takes time but builds true connections. It’s not about flashy ad budgets; it’s about showing up, being authentic, and providing value. If you make it easy for people to refer you, remember you, and trust you, your Medicare book of business will grow; one interaction at a time.

Are you ready to join the team at Crowe; click here for contract

Suggested Leave-Behinds or Referral Gifts (All $15 or Less):

• Branded pill organizers
• Magnifying bookmarks
• Reusable grocery bags
• Hand sanitizers with your logo
• Small potted plants or succulents
• Coffee mugs
• $5–$10 gift cards (compliance-checked)
• Mini first aid kits
• Magnetic calendars with your logo and contact information

Looking to grow your Medicare practice? Start with your community; the most powerful marketing tool you have is you!

Final expense insurance; also known as burial insurance or funeral insurance, is one of the most practical and emotionally impactful products in the life insurance industry. It provides a straightforward solution for covering funeral and end-of-life costs. We will go over Final Expense Plan basics so you can get a general idea of the value of these plans.

This guide breaks down what agents need to know to confidently sell final expense insurance; from plan types and terminology to underwriting insights and a step-by-step sales process.

Final Expense Insurance

Final expense insurance is a type of permanent whole life insurance with a low death benefit, typically between $2,000 and $50,000. It’s designed to pay for funeral expenses, medical bills, debts, and other end-of-life costs. This helps provide peace of mind for the individuals who purchase the coverage and their loved ones.

Key Characteristics:

• Whole life insurance product (not term)
• Level premiums for life
• Guaranteed death benefit (as long as premiums are paid)
• No medical exam required (simplified issue or guaranteed issue)
• Cash value accumulation

Final Expense Terminology

Understanding the lingo is important when discussing plans with clients:

Watch a quick YouTube video on Life Insurance Basics

Final Expense Plan Types

Final expense plans generally fall into three categories:

1. Level Benefit Plans

• For healthy clients who qualify based on health questions
• Immediate full death benefit
• Lowest premiums

2. Graded Benefit Plans

• For clients with moderate health issues
• Limited death benefit in first 2–3 years (often 30%-100% of premiums refunded + interest)
• Full benefit kicks in after graded period

3. Guaranteed Issue Plans

• No health questions
• Suitable for high-risk clients (cancer, dementia, etc.)
• Always have a 2-year waiting period

Underwriting – What Clients Can Expect

Final expense underwriting is more lenient than traditional life insurance. Most policies are simplified issue, which means:

• No medical exam
• Short health questionnaire
• Carriers may use tools like:
  • Prescription history databases
  • MIB (Medical Information Bureau)
  • Height and weight tables
  • Phone interviews

Health Conditions That May Affect Plan Type

Agents: It is important to ask questions that can bring up common risk flags to prepare the best plan quote for your client to ensure they receive the coverage they need.

Sales Process: From Lead to Close

1. Lead Generation

• Direct mail, Facebook, Google ads, or warm referrals
• Focus on individuals aged 50–85
• Consider grass roots community marketing, telemarketer or aged leads if on a budget

2. First Contact & Rapport Building

• Start by actively listening to them and getting to know them
• Focus on protection and peace of mind, not insurance jargon
• Example: “Many of my clients want to make sure their families aren’t left with bills or funeral costs. Do you have coverage for that?”

3. Fact-Finding & Budgeting

Ask about:

• Age, health conditions, and medications
• Existing coverage
• Budget comfort level (not just affordability)

4. Present the Plan Options

• Present a few options that fall within their budget; an online quoting tool like Best Plan Pro makes this easy
• Explain the difference between level, graded, and guaranteed issue plans
• Emphasize guaranteed premium amounts and lifelong coverage

5. Application Process

• Most carriers offer e-apps, telephonic apps, or paper apps
• Walk the client through health questions and disclosures
• Submit application

6. Follow-Up and Delivery

• Confirm approval
• Review the policy with the client
• Schedule an annual check-in
• Ask for referrals!

Learn more about Final Expense Sales 101

A Few Tips for Agents

• Educate first, sell second: Although clients make the purchase based on emotion, they need to feel informed and confident in their decision.
• Practice transparency: Ensure clients understand graded periods or waiting periods upfront.
• Respect the budget: Because many clients live on a fixed income, it is not a good idea to sell them a policy they cannot afford. This can lead to loss of trust between you and the client and policy cancellation and a chargeback.
• Focus on family protection: Present the policy purchase as a layer of asset protection and legacy, not just an expense.

Click here if you are ready to get contracted with Crowe

Final expense insurance offers security and simplicity for clients as well as an opportunity for agents. By mastering the product, understanding client needs, and delivering with compassion, you’ll not only increase your sales but also build a business rooted in service and trust.

Keep up with the latest events and information for Medicare agents; click here

Final Expense Sales 101 – How to Make the Sale

If you’re already helping clients with Medicare, you have a golden opportunity sitting right in front of you: final expense insurance. It’s a natural cross-sell that fits perfectly into your existing appointments and client relationships. This post walks you through final expense sales 101 and explains how to integrate this product into your business and add value without being pushy.

Why Add Final Expense to Your Medicare Business

1. You Already Have the Right Audience

Because final expense insurance targets people aged 50–85, it is a similar demographic to those you’re already serving with Medicare. Many of these individuals are on a fixed income, value peace of mind, and trust you as their insurance advisor.

2. You’re Already Having the Conversation

During your Medicare appointment, you’re already talking about:

• Health concerns
• Retirement income
• Budget constraints
• Planning for the future

Adding a conversation about funeral costs, protecting loved ones from unexpected expense and leaving a financial legacy is a natural extension, not a separate pitch.

Watch a quick YouTube video on Why and How to Sell Ancillary Products With Medicare

3. You Increase Your Value to The Client

Because you are already providing health coverage advice, why not offer additional value and increase your commissions. Selling additional products to a client helps solidify your relationship.

4. Increased Client Retention

Clients who purchase multiple products from an agent are more likely to stay with you long-term. Final expense policies also open the door for life-long renewals.

How to Introduce Final Expense

After Medicare Enrollment

Once you’ve helped the client enroll in a Medicare plan, say something like:

“Are there any other health or life products you would like to discuss? Many of my clients have asked about final expense coverage; they want to make sure loved ones aren’t left with a financial burden.

Ask if they already have something in place for that. If they say yes, say “That’s great, do you know if it’s term or whole life? Some people are surprised when they realize their policy might end before they need it.

If they say no or aren’t sure; offer to look at some options that fit their budget. Many people just want something to cover their final expenses (10,000 to 15,000) so their family is not stuck with a large bill. This frames the conversation as standard and proactive; not a sales pitch.

Position It As Peace of Mind

Avoid phrases like “life insurance” and instead say:

• “Funeral coverage”
• “Final expense plan”
• “A little extra protection for your family”

Make it about the emotional benefit, not just the policy.

How to Get Started

• Contract with final expense carriers like Mutual of Omaha, Aetna, Transamerica, or Foresters.
• Quoting tool (e.g., CSG Actuarial or Best Plan Pro).
• Short presentation script tailored for Medicare clients.
• Lead follow-up system or CRM (many Medicare CRMs support multi-line tracking).

Click here if you are ready to get contracted with Crowe

Medicare-Final Expense Agents

Final expense insurance is an easy and impactful way to help your clients and increase your revenue. You’re already meeting with the ideal audience, now it’s about offering a solution to a very real concern.

Start by asking simple, compassionate questions. Frame the coverage as peace of mind. Remember, your clients trust you, and they want your help.

Final expense isn’t a separate business; it’s a natural extension of the one you’re already building.

Important: Be sure to include this or any product you plan to discuss with potential clients on your scope of appointment to be compliant with CMS guidelines.

Keep up with the latest events and information for Medicare agents; click here

Medicare beneficiaries who have a limited income may be eligible for help paying for some healthcare costs. That’s where a Medicare agent can provide some insight into understanding the Medicare savings program. This can be a great resource for individuals who qualify. The Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are state-run programs that help pay Medicare premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance, depending on the individual’s financial situation.

There are four main MSP categories, each with slightly different income and resource limits; each provides a different level of help. We will break them down to provide a better understanding of each level.

QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary)

QMB provides the most comprehensive benefits. It helps pay for:

• Medicare Part A premiums (if applicable)
• Medicare Part B premiums
• Medicare deductibles
• Medicare coinsurance and copays
• Help paying for prescription drugs (beneficiaries pay no more than $12.15 for each prescription covered by their Medicare drug plan).

If an individual qualifies at the QMB level, doctors and medical providers do not bill them for services covered by Medicare; except in very limited situations.

2025 QMB income and resource limits:

• Individual: monthly income limit $1,325; resource limit $9,660
• Married couple: monthly income limit $1,783; resource limit $14,470
  (Limits vary by state)

What counts in resource limits: Money in checking, savings and retirement accounts, stocks and bonds. States do not count: Your home, furnishings, household and personal items, one car, burial plots, up to $1,500 for burial expenses if that money is put aside.

SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary)

The SLMB Program is more limited than the QMB Program but still provides assistance. The only premium it helps pay for is the Medicare Part B premium (beneficiaries must have both Part A & Part B to qualify for the program).

The program also provides help paying for prescription drugs. Individuals pay no more than $12.15 for any drug covered by their Medicare drug plan.

This program is useful for people with limited income slightly above the QMB threshold.

2025 Income and resource limits:

• Individual: monthly income of $1,585 with a resource limit of $9,660.
• Married couple: monthly income of $2,135 with a resource limit of $14,470.

QI (Qualifying Individual)

The QI Program also helps pay the Medicare Part B premium, just like the SLMB program, but with slightly higher income limits. QI beneficiaries also receive extra help paying for their prescription drugs and pay no more than $12.15 in 2025 for any drug covered on their Medicare plan. The QI benefit is provided on a first come, first served basis, and individuals must apply every year to continue receiving benefits.

Important: Individuals who are eligible for Medicaid do not qualify for QI program.

2025 Income and resource limits:

• Individual: monthly income limit of $1,781 with resource limits of $9,660 (the same as QMB & SLMB).
• Married couple: monthly income limit of $2,400 with resource limits of $14,470 (the same as QMB & SLMB).

QDWI (Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals)

The QDWI Program is specifically for individuals under age 65 who are disabled but have returned to work and lost their Social Security disability benefits and premium-free Medicare Part A.

QDWI helps pay the Medicare Part A premium for these individuals.

2025 Income and resource limits:

• Individual: monthly income limit of $5,302 with resource limits of $4,000.
• Married couple: monthly income limit of $7,135 with resource limits of $6,000.

Please note: Income limits vary by states. The amounts listed in this post are federal limits. Individuals with slightly higher incomes may still qualify in their states.  Check your state to find out.

Apply for MSP (Medicare Savings Program)

Because MSPs are administered by each state’s Medicaid office; the application process varies by state. In general, individuals will need to provide:

• Proof of income (such as Social Security or pension statements)
• Information about assets (like savings, investments, etc.)
• Medicare card and ID

If you are an agent who is ready to join the team at Crowe; click here for contracting

Medicare Savings Programs can make a huge difference in the lives of people within the income limits. They provide assistance for important medical services that are essential for quality of life. It is free to apply, and the potential savings can be substantial.

Agents who want to find the latest events and information; click here

If you’re a Medicare agent, you know leads are an essential part of your business. But purchasing leads can be expensive as well as frustrating, with low contact rates and high competition. The good news? There are effective, low-cost Medicare lead sources to generate quality Medicare leads that build lasting client relationships.

Here are four strategies to help find leads that actually convert without emptying your wallet:

Grassroots Marketing Still Works

Even in the digital age, nothing beats local visibility and personal interaction. Although grassroots marketing may take some time, it’s cost-effective and builds genuine relationships.

• Community bulletin boards: Post flyers offering your services at grocery stores, libraries, pharmacies, and senior centers. Remember; use only general information and do not mention specific benefits or carriers on flyers.
• Local events: Set up a booth at farmers markets, church fairs, or health expos. Offer free Medicare information and assistance to attract interest. Free items of nominal value like pens or candy sometimes helps attract people and start the conversation.
• Business cards everywhere: Leave them at coffee shops, laundromats, grocery stores or anywhere seniors gather.

This method takes consistency, however, over time, it helps establish you as a valuable, local Medicare resource.

Click here for a Scope of Appointment Form

Host Medicare Educational Seminars

Educational events are a great way to build credibility as a knowledgeable community member and generate leads in a non-salesy setting. Many seniors are overwhelmed by Medicare choices and appreciate trustworthy advise.

• Partner with libraries, senior centers, or churches to host free events.
• Offer a clear, simple presentation explaining Medicare basics and common questions.
• Use voluntary sign-in sheets and follow-up cards to capture contact information for attendees.
• Bring printed materials like basic plan comparison charts or a “Medicare 101” guide they can take home.

Watch a Medicare Educational Event Best Practices Video

You don’t need a big crowd; even a small gathering can yield solid, qualified leads when people trust you from the start.

Leverage Professional Community Relationships

Think beyond individual clients; build relationships with people who serve your target audience every day.

• Pharmacists and independent pharmacies: Ask if you can leave materials or host a “Medicare Check-Up Day.”
• Financial advisors and tax preparers: Many of their clients are Medicare-aged. Offer to co-host an event or provide educational resources.
• Home health agencies and caregivers: These professionals regularly interact with people who need help with healthcare coverage.
• Faith leaders and community organizers: Trusted voices in the community can refer their members to you when Medicare questions arise.

These referral partners don’t have to sell for you; they just need to know you’re a trusted resource.

Referrals from Current Clients

Once your business is established, happy clients are often your best lead source. In most cases, all you have to do is ask; they are happy to recommend your services to friends and family.

• Ask at the right time: After helping a client enroll or during an annual review, simply ask, “Do you know anyone else who could use help with Medicare?”
• Send follow-up emails with referral reminders: Include a link to a referral form or offer a small incentive (where compliant).
• Provide extra business cards they can hand to friends or family.
• Stay top-of-mind with birthday cards, newsletters, or check-in calls. The more visible you are, the more likely they are to refer others.

Remember, a referred lead is already partially sold; they trust you because someone they know trusts you.

A few more strategies for Medicare agents

You don’t need a massive marketing budget to grow your Medicare business. With the right combination of grassroots outreach, community connections, educational events, and referrals, you can build a steady stream of qualified leads that cost very little and convert into sales.

Are you ready to join the team at Crowe; click here for online contract

It is important to be visible, approachable and a valuable resource for your community. If you do these things, the leads will follow.

To find upcoming agent events and webinar; click here

As America’s population ages, the demand for healthcare and those who can help people navigate it continues to grow. One very important and often misunderstood area of healthcare is Medicare. For those looking for a rewarding and potentially lucrative career, you might want to consider a Medicare sales career.

Why Consider a Medicare Sales Career

Growing Market

Every day, thousands of Americans turn 65 and become eligible for Medicare. That trend is not expected to slow down anytime soon. As baby boomers age into the program, the need for knowledgeable, trustworthy agents to guide them through their options has never been greater. This isn’t a short-term trend; it’s a long-term opportunity based on demographics.

Make a Meaningful Impact

Choosing a Medicare plan can be overwhelming. All the options can cause confusion for beneficiaries. Between Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap, Part D, this is difficult for many to sort out. That is why they often need help to find the best fit for their unique medical and financial needs. As a Medicare sales professional, you’re not just selling a product; you’re offering clarity, confidence, and peace of mind at a critical point in life.

Quick Start Up with Great Earning Potential

For a determined individual, becoming a licensed Medicare agent can be accomplished in a relatively short amount of time when compared to many careers. Once certified (through licensing and passing the required exam), agents can complete the AHIP and add in carrier contracts and purchase E &O insurance. Once contracted and compliant, they can put together a plan to build their book of business. Top agents enjoy competitive commissions, including renewals, which creates an opportunity for recurring income over time.

Watch a quick YouTube of what Crowe has to offer agents

Flexible Career Options

Medicare sales can fit a wide range of career goals and lifestyles. Those who want to work independently and set their own schedule can do that. If you enjoy working as part of a larger agency or brokerage with support and resources?; that’s also an option. Whether you’re looking for a full-time career or a side hustle, the flexibility of Medicare sales is hard to beat.

Continuous Learning Keeps the Work Interesting

Because Medicare is constantly evolving, new plans, changing regulations, updates to benefits, there’s always something new to learn. For professionals who enjoy staying sharp and growing their expertise, Medicare sales offers a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment.

Digital Tools Make It Easier

Medicare agents have access to powerful online quoting and enrollment platforms, including telephonically with voice recording systems, CRMs, and so much more. Agents no longer need to visit a prospect’s home unless they want to. Many successful agents run their business entirely online, serving clients across multiple states. Although some prefer the grass roots approach. There are options for many different types of agents.

Watch a quick video of Connecture & Sunfire quoting and enrollment tools

Click here for online contracting and join the team at Crowe!

A career in Medicare sales is about more than just earning commissions; it’s about becoming a trusted advisor for people facing important health coverage decisions. If you enjoy helping others, are driven to succeed, and want to be part of a growing industry with real impact, Medicare sales could be the opportunity you’ve been looking for.

For a look at upcoming agent events and to view our webinar schedule, click here