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.
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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Limited resources: Some uplines do not offer the tools needed or outdated technology.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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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