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Individuals getting started in Medicare sales or long time agents may be looking for the best FMO for Medicare agents to grow their business.   A good FMO can make all the difference in the world for an agent. They can provide invaluable knowledge, tools and support and expand on the agents value to their community.

Because we offer contracts with all the major carriers as well as many smaller carriers, we ensure the client receives the best coverage to fit their needs. Making sure the clients are happy should the agents top priority. Not only do we work with Medicare products but, we offer ancillary products. This ensures clients can shop for all their coverage in one place. Our ancillary products include dental, vision, final expense and several life insurance options.

Watch a YouTube video to see what we can offer you

When clients get all their coverage needs met in one place, it leads to better retention rates and stronger agent/client relationships. This helps agents maintain their book of business. It also ensures that clients go to the same agent with all their questions.

Click here for online contract and join the team at Crowe

It is easy to get selling with Crowe. There is no need for mountains of paperwork. Just fill out the online contracting kit. You will also need to send copies of your license, E&O , and a void check.  The contract has a section for agents to indicate which companies they want to contract with.  It is that easy.  Agents can easily add carriers to their contract by filling out a link or sending an email to us.

Best FMO for agents – What we have to offer

Agents receive full compensation

Every agent contract we offer is for the maximum allowable commission. Agents receive pay directly from the carriers; we do not take any part of the commission you earn.

Click here for Medicare commissions 2025

Our agents are independent

If you contract with us, you work for yourself and decide what hours you put in.  What you put in to your business is what you will get out of it. Because our agents receive their commission directly from the carriers, you own your book of business.  If you decide to ask for a release, you take your clients with you. Our job is to provide guidance and support when you need it.

Medicare lead program

Our agents are eligible to receive up to $500 per month as reimbursement for Medicare marketing and lead costs.  The only catch is; you must have all your Medicare contracts through Crowe. We do not impose production minimums to start and do not reduce your commission. 

 Click here to learn about our lead program.

Many ways to enroll a client

Due to the fact that we are partners with Pinnacle Financial Services, we can provide free quoting and enrollment tools. This allows clients to enroll in a plan in a way that is comfortable for them.

Voice signature

We offer many tools to quote and enroll that allow agents to use a voice signature. This includes Connecture, Sunfire and My Medicare Bot.

Click here to learn about My Medicare Bot.

Online enrollment with Connecture or Sunfire

Easily access online enrollment tools for Medicare Advantage, Supplement and Part D plans. All our agents have access to a personalized online enrollment platform.  There is no need to meet clients face-to-face if they are not comfortable doing so.  This saves valuable time for everyone when necessary.  Agents can send prospects a link to compare plans and self enroll from either site.

Find out about the updates in Connecture and Sunfire for 2025

Paper application processing 

Because some clients like to use paper applications, Pinnacle is one of the few uplines that still provides our agents application scrubbing & processing.

Additional product quotes

Agents who work with us have free access to Pinnacle’s online quote site.  The site not only quotes and compares Medicare Advantage, Medicare supplement and Part D plans but includes; Final Expense, Term, UL, Hospital indemnity, vision and dental plans.   Take a look at a site demo.

Turn-key seminar program

We offer agents a Medicare seminar program. This is a great option for agents who enjoy presenting invaluable information to those who need it.  Our seminar program allows agents to get out and meet at least 40 to 60 T-65 prospects at each event.  Many prospects are more comfortable when they meet an agent face-to-face and this is a great way to do it.

Each agent has access to a personal portal where the seminar registrants’ contact information is stored. This lets you follow up with those who want your help.  All invites are sent out for you and all you have to do is book a venue, present your information and close the sale!

Learn the Details of Our Seminar Selling Program

Training webinars

We send out weekly invites to any agent who wants to learn about new products and regulations. All our webinars are available on our YouTube channel so you can view them at your convenience.  Our videos cover many topics including:  Sales strategies, enrollment and marketing rules, product knowledge, and how to use the sales tools available to our agents.

Take a look at our YouTube channel for some free training videos.

Additionally:

If you want help growing your book or building an agency, we are here for you.  Agencies working with us can use our programs and tools to recruit and train agents.  This includes our Medicare lead program.  This program is a great help to new agents and provides incentive for them to join your agency.

Please note;  each carrier has specific requirements for the various agency levels.  We are here to help you get to the level you are want to be at.  Up-line levels include GA, MGA and SGA levels.

Learn about our discounted E&O coverage; both agents and agencies can purchase our E&O.

Our E&O covers multiple lines of business including; Life, Health, LTC  & FE as well as Annuities, both fixed and indexed

More Agency Programs and Benefits – Click here

As a Medicare agent, your upline plays a pivotal role in your success. They provide the support, tools, and resources necessary to help you grow your business and serve your clients effectively. However, there may come a time when you feel your current upline is not meeting your needs. Knowing the best time to change uplines can make the transition smoother and ensure your business continues to thrive.

Watch a quick YouTube video and learn about our programs & offerings

Why consider changing uplines

Changing uplines is a significant decision that agents should not take lightly. Common reasons for considering a change include:

Lack of support: If your current upline doesn’t provide adequate training, mentorship, or marketing support, it may be difficult to grow your book of business.

Limited resources: Some uplines do not offer the tools needed or outdated technology. This can slow an agent’s efficiency and ability to compete in the market.

Find out about our quoting tolls Sunfire & Connecture

Poor communication: An unresponsive or disengaged upline can make agents feel isolated and unsupported.

Conflict of values: In some instances, the way an agent does business and their goals may no longer align with their upline’s approach. If this is the case, it may be time to look for a better fit.

Better Opportunities: A new upline might offer more competitive commission structures, better carrier relationships, or enhanced resources.

2025 agent commission amounts

Transfer blackouts/freezes

During the months of September through December, most Medicare carriers go into a blackout/freeze on upline transfers. During this time, agents cannot transfer their contracts to a new upline. It does not matter if they use an immediate release or a self-release.

Agents who plan to start the clock with the carriers for a self release, must get the timing right. This will ensure they are receive their release before September to avoid the blackout/freeze. Be extremely careful that your release will not end any time during the blackout period, because you will have to wait until January when the blackout/freeze ends.

When is the best time to change uplines

The best time to consider making the switch is in the first quarter of the year. The reason is simple: if there are any delays in getting the release (sometimes these are unforeseen) there is plenty of time to straighten it out and be ready to sell before AEP starts.

This also allows agents to concentrate on their certifications and make their AEP plans.

It is best to start your research well before you make the switch to ensure you make the best decision and avoid having to switch uplines again in the future. Be sure any upline you consider offers training, tools and marketing programs that fit with your goals.

Consider your year-end performance

This is important to help see areas where the biggest changes are required and where you can improve. This helps agents understand where their current upline may have been a disadvantage and what a new upline can provide that will aid their growth and success. If the review shows you gaps in support, resources or other areas, it may be time to make a change.

When a Better Opportunity Arises

If you’re approached by a new upline offering significantly better opportunities, don’t ignore it. You could miss out on a great opportunity.

Be sure to look carefully at what they are offering before you make you initiate a release. Look at factors like commission structures, who owns your book of business (in case you decide to move again), training programs and sales tools and anything that is important to you.

Types of releases

In general there are 2 different ways to receive a release from you current upline and transfer your contracts to another upline.

Immediate (signed) Release

In the best of circumstances, agents may request and receive an immediate release from their current upline to transfer their contracts to a new upline.

If this is the case, be sure the release is signed by the top of the hierarchy. In most cases, this means an FMO. Releases signed by any part of the hierarchy other than the top do nothing but waste time. Although some carriers accept a general release, others require their own specific form signed & submitted.

Self-release

When the agent doesn’t receive an immediate release, they can start the release process on their own. Agents should check the requirements of each carrier to begin the process.

The most common way to initiate a self-release is for the agent to put in intent to transfer with each carrier. When this is the choice, agents may continue to write business and earn commissions. Keep in mind, the current upline will continue to be paid overrides on your business. Each carrier has it’s own process for this. In many cases, the waiting period for the release to be finalized is 90 days.

In some cases the agent may be able to transfer their contracts after 6 months of non-production with their current upline. Although, this is not usually a realistic option as most agents cannot afford to go without commission for 6 months.

Changing your upline

Making a change to your Medicare upline is a significant decision that can greatly impact your business. Carefully considering the timing to ensuring a well-planned transition, can help set you up for greater success. The key is to prioritize long-term goals and choose an upline that aligns with your vision.

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

If you’re contemplating a change, take time to evaluate your options thoroughly and make an informed decision. The right upline can be a game-changer for your career, providing the tools and support you need to reach new heights.

Medicare hierarchies and contracting

Medicare hierarchies and contracting provides a review of the sales structure for independent agents, agencies and top of hierarchy (TOH) organizations.  This focuses on Medicare Advantage plans but the general concept applies to most product types.  However, commissions, override amounts and structures will vary.  We will also cover general carrier contracting for all levels including; independent agent, agencies, TOH.

Independent Medicare Advantage and PDP contracted agent

Independent agents are able to hold contracts with multiple carriers.  In some cases the agents are able to contract directly with insurance carriers or go through a hierarchy (upline).  Some carriers only allow agents to contract through an upline.

CMS max allowable compensation for MA and PDP (street commission)

Every year CMS sets the maximum allowable commission an independent agent can receive for Medicare Advantage sales.  The amounts listed as the max amount for a new MA sale and the max amount for a MA renewal. The renewal is half the initial amount.  The PDP commissions work the same way.   CMS breaks the states up into 4 groups.  The comp for each group is different. Groups are:

• CA and NJ:  Highest compensation
• CT, PA and DC:  2nd highest compensation
• National:  All other states not listed above and 3rd lowest compensation
• Puerto Rico and the U.S Virgin Islands:  Lowest compensation

Click here for the max commission amounts for 2023

Top of hierarchy organizations (Called FMO’s or NMO’s)

FMO’s and NMO’s are companies that contract with insurance carriers.  They receive compensation above what Medicare lists as the max compensation.   Both independent agents and agencies (more on agencies later) can contract through an FMO instead of direct with the insurance company.  Some insurance companies will only contract agents through an FMO.  The agent can access multiple insurance company contracts through the FMO.  In most cases, the agent is paid directly by the insurance company at the max allowable CMS compensation.  This is the case even though they contract through the FMO.  That means, the agent owns the book of business.  If they left the FMO for another FMO or went direct to an insurance carrier, their renewals and book of business would go with them.

The FMO receives an override (an set amount of money per sale)

When insurance agents sell a Medicare plan the FMO receives an override.  As a result, the more an agent sells the more overrides the FMO receives. The concept is designed to incent the FMO to help the agent sell more. This is done through training, contracting assistance, marketing programs, incentives, leads, agent services or a number of other value added programs. The FMO also receives overrides when cases renew.

If the FMO contracts an independent agent to receive commissions directly from the carrier, the agent receives the full CMS commission from the carrier. (Street commission direct pay)  The FMO will then receive the full override.  Override amounts can vary from carrier to carrier but we will use $125 as an example.  Every time the street agent sells a policy the FMO will receive a $125 override payment.  In most cases, the override is half the amount for renewal payments.

Medicare hierarchies and contracting:  Agencies under FMO’s

In many cases an independent agent will contract through a local agency or an agency with a contract level below the FMO level.  If this is the case, it is still common for agents to paid the full CMS commission directly from the insurance carriers.   In some cases the agents have the carriers pay the commission to the agency and then the agency pays it out to the agents.  This is called an LOA or commission assignment arrangement. (More on this later)

In general there are 3 levels of agencies under an FMO.  The level determines how much the agency will receive as an override.   Please note: overrides are one pool of money, they are not additional amounts above what the FMO receives.  When an FMO has an agency under them, they are giving up the portion of their override the agency is receiving.

Agency contract levels

GA-General Agent:

An agency at the general agent level receives a $50 override per sale.  The amount of override on the renewal is usually half of the initial override.  In most cases, the general agent needs to have at least 5 contracted and certified sub agents in order to get the GA level with any carrier.

MGA- Master General Agency:

Override of $75 per enrollment and half that amount upon cases renewing:   Minimum of 10 contracted and certified sub agents to have the MGA level

SGA-Senior General Agency:

Override of $100 per enrollment and half that amount upon cases renewing:  Minimum of 20 contracted and certified sub agents to have the SGA level.  This level also requires production minimums in addition to the min number of sub agents.

The amount of override paid to the agency under an FMO is deducted from the amount of override they would receive with a street agent only.   Example:  Street agent under an MGA agency that works through an FMO.   Agent get the max allowable commission paid directly from insurance carrier.  The MGA gets a $75 override and the FMO gets a $50 override (assuming the FMO was getting a $125 override)

Levels:

The agency levels are all splitting one pool of money for overrides. (assuming a $125 FMO override level)   If an FMO has a GA under them, the GA gets $50 and the FMO gets $75)  If an FMO has an SGA under them, the FMO gets $25 and the SGA gets $100.   If the SGA has a GA under them, the SGA gets $50 and the GA gets $50)

• FMO ($125)
• SGA ($100)
• MGA ($75)
• GA ($50)
• Street agent (gets full CMS commission paid directly from the insurance company regardless of how many agencies in hierarchy)
• Note:  PDP plans also have override payments but they are substantially less than MA plans

Medicare hierarchies and contracting: commission payment methods

Direct pay:  In most cases, independent agents are paid directly from the carrier.  This is often the case for agents appointed directly with a insurance company and also often the case when contracted through an upline. (FMO,SGA,MGA,GA) When an agent is set up as direct pay from the insurance carrier, the agent owns the book of business and the commissions.

LOA contract/Commission assignment

In some cases an agent will not have their commission paid directly to them.  The agent is writing the business but the insurance company is not paying the compensation direct to the agent but to another agent or  an entity/agency.  The agent or entity receiving the commissions are then paying the agent based on some type of agreed upon amount. The amount paid is usually an amount below the CMS maximum amount.

This is often the case for a w-2 agent writing business for a company or agency.  It can also be used for a 1099 agent when the upline is providing some type of value in exchange for a portion of the commission.   In this case, the writing agent does not own the book of business.  If they leave the upline, the commissions will continue to be paid to that upline at whatever terms and conditions had been agreed upon.

Medicare hierarchies and contracting: Contracting agencies and sub agents

Any agency cannot contract another agency under them at the same level.  For example, if an SGA wants to bring on another agency, the highest level the agency could be is an MGA. IN other words; they must be one level below the upline.

Having commissions paid to an entity:

Medicare Advantage and Part D commission can pay to an entity.  In order for the entity to be paid, it must hold an insurance license.  Further, the entity must have a listed principal (person) and that principal must be contracted and certified with any given carrier for the entity to be able to receive commissions

Individual person as an agency: 

An individual can be considered either a GA, MGA or SGA.  This is the case when they meet the minimum amount of sub agents required by a carrier. An individual they can be given an agency contract as an individual.  Having an entity with an insurance license is not a requirement for most insurance companies

Agency with producers (sub agents) in other states

In order for an agency to receive overrides in any given state, that agency must hold an insurance license in that state and be appointed and certified with that carrier.  This can be problematic when an agency brings on a producing agent that is licensed in states the agency is not licensed in.