Blog

Starting an insurance agency

If you enjoy helping people get the medical coverage they need, have the ability to make a sale and want to build your own business, starting an insurance agency might be the perfect venture for you.  In this post, we’ll walk you through some of the steps you need to take to start your own insurance agency and set yourself up for success.

Before you start an insurance agency, it’s crucial to research the type of insurance products you plan to offer and develop a solid business plan. There are many types of insurance products you can market; this includes; auto, home, life, health or Medicare.  Once you are licensed to sell the products you decided to offer, you need to identify your target market, understand their needs, and assesses the competitive landscape.

Licensing and Education

To become an insurance agent, you’ll need to obtain the necessary licenses and certifications. These requirements vary depending on the types of insurance you plan to sell and your location. Most states require pre-licensing education courses and passing a licensing exam. Additionally, ongoing education may be required to maintain your license.

Click here to learn how to get an insurance license in CT.

Choose the products you want to focus on

While it’s essential to offer a variety of insurance products, choosing to sell a particular product line helps you focus your efforts and lets you gain extensive knowledge in a specific area rather than learning a little about several things.  Focusing on a specific demographic, industry, or type of coverage can bring you to the forefront of an industry and differentiate your agency from competitors.

Learn how to build a successful Medicare agency

Legal Structure and Insurance

Before you start, you should decide on the legal structure for your agency.  Do you want it to be a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation. Consulting with a lawyer can help you make the best choice and ensure compliance with local regulations.  This will protect your agency from liabilities.

You also need to purchase insurance for your agency, such as errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, to protect your assets from potential lawsuits.

Build Your Team

As your agency grows, you may need to hire additional staff to handle sales, customer service, and administrative tasks. Depending on the job you are filling, you should look for individuals who are knowledgeable about insurance products, customer-oriented, and who enjoy helping others. If you are hiring back office staff, you need individuals who represent your business in a professional manner and have office skills.  These individuals need to earn about the insurance business over time.  Once they do, this will be a huge value add. It can take some of the pressure off you to answer every question that comes up and it frees up your time to concentrate on other things such as recruiting.

Watch a YouTube video on how to recruit insurance agents

Joining a good, supportive FMO can also be a great way to get guidance on how to grow your business into a successful agency.  A good FMO provides you with advice , training an many other tools that will help you grow your business into a well-oiled machine!

Are you ready to join the team at Crowe, click here for online contracting

Create a Marketing Plan

Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy to attract clients and generate leads for your agency. Utilize a mix of online and offline marketing tactics, such as social media, email marketing, networking events, and advertising. Consider partnering with other businesses or organizations to expand your reach.

Take a look at the CMS marketing guidelines

Set Up Your Office

Whether you choose to operate your agency from a physical location or work remotely, it’s essential to create a professional and inviting workspace for you and your team. Invest in essential office equipment, such as computers, phones, and furniture, and establish efficient workflows to streamline operations.

Focus on Customer Service

Providing exceptional customer service is key to building long-lasting relationships with your clients and earning their trust. Be responsive to their needs, communicate clearly and effectively, and go above and beyond to exceed their expectations.  If you follow this advice, you will maintain your book of business as well as get free leads from the recommendations of other happy clients.

Learn how to maintain your book of business

Stay Compliant

Stay up to date with industry regulations and compliance to ensure that your agency operates legally and ethically. This includes adhering to privacy laws, maintaining accurate records, and following industry best practices.

Watch a YouTube video on Medicare marketing rules for 2024

Continuous Learning and Growth

The insurance industry is constantly evolving, so it’s essential to stay informed about new trends, technologies, and regulations. Invest in ongoing training and professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and keep your agency competitive.

Starting an insurance agency requires hard work, dedication, and perseverance, but with the right approach and mindset, it can be a rewarding and lucrative endeavor. By following these steps and staying committed to providing value to your clients, you can build a successful insurance agency that makes a positive impact in your community.

If you want to view more images like this; click this link.

Maintaining your Medicare book

After you make the sale, maintaining your Medicare book is extremely important. The happiness of your existing clients is as important as brining in new business.  Both new and existing clients add to your bottom line and keep your business going.  In fact, if you maintain good relationships with all our clients, they will refer their friends and family to you, and this provides a continuous stream of business. Staying in contact with your clients on a regular basis, reminds them that you are there for them and keeps them from looking for help from another agent.

Stay in contact with your clients

There many opportunities to stay in contact with your clients. It is important to be consistent with this so they remember you are there for them if they have any questions or concerns.  This prevents them from seeking guidance from another available agent.

Are you looking for an FMO; click here to learn why we could be a good fit!

Examples of when to reach out:

1. After their application is submitted, you should let them know when it is approved and approximately when to expect their new card.
2. Once they enroll in a new plan, it is a good idea to check in and see if they are happy with their choice.
3. At the beginning of AEP or a little before, you can contact them to get any health , medication or provider updates needed to check plan options for the following year. Remember, you cannot discuss new plan details until October 1.
4. If a potential client is coming up on their IEP.
5. When a client has an SEP opportunity.
6. It is a good idea to send each client a birthday or condolence card when appropriate.
7. If you have any pertinent information that the client may want to know about.  If you are hosting an event, or there is something else you think they need to know.

Keeping up to date of client information will make it easier to stay in contact. If you have an automated system to remind you of important dates, that is helpful especially once your book grows.

Ways to initiate contact

These days, there are several ways to contact your clients. If you are sending an important message with a deadline, it may be best to pickup the phone and give them a call or test message.  Here are some ways to communicate with your clients or prospects:

1. Make a phone call or send a text.
2. Schedule a video call or zoom meeting.
3. Mail them cards or other general information that is not urgent.
4. If they are ok with it, you can send them an email.  For bulk emails, be sure to include an opt out.
5. For general information, you can post announcements on your social media platforms such as Facebook, or LinkedIn.

If you are ready to join the team at Crowe;  fill out our online contract

Compliant communications

No matter how you choose to communicate with your clients, it must be compliant with CMS regulations.

1. Get a permission to contact from your potential client
2. If you plan to make phone calls or send texts, be sure to abide by the (TCPA)Telephone Consumer Protection Act guidelines.
3. Be sure to record any marketing, sales or enrollment calls you make to remain compliant with CMS’s regulations.  If it is a phone call to an existing client say hello or check in , you do not need to record it.
4. Always comply with the CAN-SPAM Act for emailing

Click here to view a YouTube video of the key elements to a compliant phone recording

It is important to follow compliance guidelines when you send out a bulk email.   Be sure you do not use misleading information in your email.  If you are sending an advertisement, make that clear when possible.  Always include an opt-out for future communications.  It is important to include your contact information and address in your signature.  Agents must include a TPMO disclaimer on all email communications.

In the event you are sending an email to a specific client, you may not need to follow all the rules exactly as stated.  Always use your best judgement and if you are in doubt best to err on the side of caution.

Sending out mail

If you are sending out a card, application or something else to just an individual, it is a good idea to include instructions, contact information and postage paid return envelopes when necessary.  When you are sending out bulk advertisements or informational mailings, don’t forget to follow all CMS guidelines.

Watch a YouTube video on New Medicare marketing rules for 2024

More about using social media

Social media communications are a fantastic way to reach thousands of beneficiaries. You can use these platforms to build your credibility as a source for Medicare information.  Be sure to invite your clients to like your page and let them know you will put interesting or helpful information on there so they should make it a point to check it.  You can  post important deadlines and update for clients and anyone who may view your information. If you are going to be at a local event or hosting an sales or educational event, this gets the word out to everyone quickly. These types of platforms are a good way to get important information out as well as a tool for marketing.

NABIP final rule

Many Medicare agents, brokers and agencies are concerned about the NABIP final rule.  This is due to the huge impact on the way they do business moving forward.  The CMS proposed rule we are talking about is CMS-4205-P.  If this rule goes through as it was originally written, there will be many changes to the landscape of the insurance industry. As many of you know NABIP has been a huge supporter of agents and agencies by lobbying on our behalf to make sure we are able to stay in business and continue to provide essential help to our clients.

Who is NABIP

NABIP stands for the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals.  They represent over 100,000 licensed health insurance agents, brokers, general agents, consultants and professionals.  They have over 200 chapters throughout America.  Members of NABIP provide help to millions of clients ensuring they understand their health coverage options and that they can afford the coverage they need.  They also provide help with claims issues and coverage questions.

Click here to learn more about NABIP

What is the final rule we are talking about

As we mentioned earlier, the proposed rule we are all so concerned about is  CMS -4205-P.  Although there are several good policies included in the 486 page document, there are a few things that concern us.  You can find this This information  on pages 236-248 and they apply to agent/broker compensation.  Unfortunately,  independent agents are being lumped into the TPMO category.  In many instances these organizations do business in a very different way than independent agents do.

Watch a YouTube video on the CMS proposed rule 

Access the entire 486 page document by clicking here

Once you are on the page, just enter the document number,CMS-4205-P, in the search bar.  Remember to read pages 236-248 to see the proposed changes to compensation.

We have attached a copy of the document produced by NABIP’s PR team to hand out a their Capitol conference.  The document explains how agents/agencies use the administrative fees in question as well as what Medicare agents do and what their FMOs provide.  In other words, they explain the value of agents and FMOs to make a clear distinction of the importance of the services we all provide.  This is extremely important so that people in the government have a clear understanding of how our industry as a whole functions and makes use of the money we receive from the carriers.

Click here to view the NABIP flyer

What NABIP provides it’s members

Members are eligible for many educational opportunities including: advanced designation programs,, CE classes and online learning, conferences and networking opportunities. NABIP also offers members access to it’s publications and business development tools.

As we all see by their recent efforts, they advocate on the state and federal levels to advance the best interests of health insurance professionals.

If you want to view more images by this artist, click here

What does Medicare Part C cover

If you watch TV, I’m sure you have heard about Medicare Part C.  Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is an alternative to Original Medicare (Parts A and B).  Private insurance companies offer these plans to beneficiaries.  In this post, we will answer the question; what does Medicare Part C cover.

Medicare Part C plans must cover all of the services that Original Medicare covers (except for hospice care, which is still covered under Part A), and they may offer additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage. While Original Medicare (Parts A and B) offers essential coverage, many beneficiaries opt for additional benefits through Medicare Part C.

Basics of Medicare Part C coverage

Hospital insurance (Part A)

This includes inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care.

Medical insurance (Part B)

This includes doctor’s services, outpatient care, preventive services, and some DME (durable medical equipment).

Prescription drug coverage (Part D)

Many Medicare Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage.  Part D coverage is not part of Original Medicare.  When it is included in a Part C, Medicare advantage plan, it is called an MAPD plan.  If it is not included, the plan is called an MA only plan.

Additional benefits

Many Medicare Advantage plans offer additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare, such as routine dental, vision, and hearing care, fitness programs, transportation services, and over-the-counter allowances for certain health-related items.

More Medicare Part C Benefits

To view more images by this artist, click here

Medicare turning 65 leads

If you are in the Medicare sales field, you know how difficult it is to find good Medicare turning 65 leads.  Medicare leads play a pivotal role in connecting agents with individuals who are looking for advice on the best coverage options available to them.

Understanding T-65 Leads

T-65 Medicare leads refer to individuals who are nearing the age of 65 and are therefore eligible to enroll in Medicare.  T-65 leads are very valuable to Medicare agents because they represent a target audience that is actively seeking information and guidance regarding their Medicare options.

Learn about our lead program

Join the team at Crowe – click here for online contract

The Importance of T-65 Leads

T-65 leads provide an opportunity for agents to establish important relationships with potential clients. Once an individual approaches 65, they often have questions and concerns about their healthcare coverage options. By reaching out to T-65 leads, agents can offer valuable assistance navigating the complexities of Medicare enrollment. This is an opportunity to earn the trust of a beneficiary and add a lifelong client to your book of business.

Learn the details of how commissions pay out – watch a quick YouTube video

Unfortunately, most leads sources such as online leads, inbound call leads and pre-set leads are not going to have many turning 65 prospects. These lead sources usually provide contact information for people who are already on Medicare.

One way to ensure you get a good number of T-65 leads is with the use of our T-65 Seminar selling program.  This turn-key program is one of the only ways to guarantee you get true T-65 leads.  It is easy to use.  Agents get their own portal that keeps client contact information so the agent can follow up and be sure the client knows you are there to help them once it is time to sign up for Medicare. Crowe reimburses our agents for 1/2 the cost of their first seminar.  Get all the details of the seminar program.

Watch a video on our T-65 educational seminar program

Be sure you follow all CMS guidelines for hosting an educational or sales event.

Crowe agents have access to a preset lead program that provides leads at a very good close ratio.  To learn more about this program, click the link below:

Watch a YouTube video on our preset lead program

Tips for effectively leveraging T-65 leads

1. Targeted Marketing: Use targeted marketing strategies to reach individuals who are approaching the age of 65. Think about doing this up to 1 year ahead.  This may include digital advertising, direct mail campaigns, and partnerships with local community organizations.
2. Personalized Communication: Tailor your communication to the specific needs and preferences of T-65 leads. Listen to their concerns and provide customized solutions that address their unique circumstances.  Many agent use a Medicare fact finder to collect important client information.
3. Educational Workshops: Host educational workshops or seminars to provide T-65 leads with valuable information about Medicare enrollment, coverage options, and important deadlines. This helps establish your credibility as a knowledgeable resource in the Medicare field.
4. Follow-Up and Support: Stay in touch with T-65 leads throughout the enrollment process and beyond. Offer ongoing support and guidance to ensure that they make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage.  This helps build a good long term broker/client relationship.  It is important to remember renewals are a large part of your income and this also leads to referrals.

Find out how to get Medicare referrals

T-65 Medicare leads represent a valuable opportunity

This is an opportunity for insurance agents to connect with individuals who are nearing eligibility for Medicare benefits. By understanding the unique needs of T-65 leads and employing strategic approaches to lead generation and engagement, agents can effectively serve this demographic and grow their business in the process. By providing personalized guidance and building lasting relationships, agents can become invaluable allies.

Here are some marketing ideas

the best way to get almost exclusively t-65 prospects is through our T-65 seminar program.  T-65 mailers are a good way to target new to Medicare but you have a very low response rate and mailers are a ton of work and follow up.

Before you contact potential clients – you must understand how the permission to contact works

Click here to see Medicare Advantage commissions 2024

Click here to view more images by this artist

Resources for new Medicare agents

 Consider joining an experienced upline/FMO

Agents who contract with an experienced upline/FMO have a much easier time getting up and running.  A good FMO provides invaluable resources for new Medicare agents such as contracting, training, tools and guidance they need to be successful in the Medicare field.

Click here to watch a YouTube video on what Crowe has to offer.

Training

One of the most important tools a good FMO provides is training.  Agents not only need to learn the ins and outs of Medicare and how each plan works but they also need to understand the rules and guidelines put in place by CMS and the insurance carriers.  On top of that, they need to know where to get leads and how to make a sale once they have the leads.  As you can see there is a lot of things an agent needs to know before they have a successful Medicare sales business.

Crowe provides our agents multiple ways to get the knowledge they need to succeed including webinars, zoom meetings, in-person training events, one-on-one phone calls with our sales directors, back-office staff or Ed Crowe.  If this is something you would like, we can partner new agents with an experienced agent who can provide guidance.

Learn more about Medicare agent training opportunities.

Visit our events and information page and stay up to date on our upcoming webinars and zoom meetings.

E&O Insurance

Before you contract with the carriers or make a sale, you need to have E& O insurance in place.  E&O protects you in the event you make a mistake in the sale of an insurance product that costs your client a lot of money.  Click here to learn about our discounted E& O Coverage options.

Build an Online Presence

These days everyone is online, that is why it is important to create an online presence.  Once you do, clients can find you easily and see what you have to offer.  An online presence also helps build brand recognition which lends itself to credibility.  There are several ways to do online marketing including, building a website.  Because Crowe and Associates is part of Pinnacle Financial services, our agents have access to their design team who provide free website design help, logo creation, digital marketing or help creating mailers.

there are other ways to create a solid online presence including through a Facebook page, LinkedIn or YouTube just to name a few.

Click here to learn how to create a Facebook business page.

As we mentioned above, the best way to build an online presence is through a website.  Adding a blog to your website is a great way to present helpful tips and information.

Click here to learn how to create a blog.

Quoting and Enrollment

Once you have a good idea of all the rules, regulations and plan details, you will need a quoting and enrollment site you can use to enter each client’s information and show them comparisons of the top plans that fit their needs and budget.  Crowe and Associates provides our agents with free quoting and enrollment tools.

Make sure you fill the application out correctly

We provide the technology that makes quick and accurate comparisons easy. Our quote engines, Sunfire & Connecture provide agents with a built in CRM to store the client’s information including name, address, birthdate, Medicare ID, Medications. pharmacies and doctors.  The CRM makes running a quote quick and easy once you ensure the client’s information is up to date.  Our quote engines also provide agents a PURL (quoting and enrollment link) you can add to your website so clients can run their own quotes and even enroll if they want.

Watch a YouTube video – how to use Sunfire

See how to use Connecture to quote and enroll

Call Recording Rules

All agents need to be aware when CMS’ implements a rule.  You need to be aware of the CMS call recording rule. This rule requires agents to record all sales, marketing, and phone enrollment calls.

Learn the rules for collecting a scope of appointment

Find out about the Medicare sales event guidelines

Both Connecture and Sunfire have call recording capabilities that keep our agents compliant.

Take a look at the 2024 Medicare advantage commissions.

If you are already contracted with Crowe and want to add a carrier, click here

How to find leads

Watch a quick video on ways to generate Medicare leads

Now that you are contracted and ready to sell, you might need some leads so you can start selling.  You can use some of the online lead sources we mentioned in previous paragraphs, but there are many more ways to get Medicare leads.

Click here to learn how to get Medicare referrals

There are numerous companies that offer all different types of leads such as live transfers or mailers.  Whatever lead sources you choose make sure the leads are CMS compliant.

More information for Medicare agents

Visit our events and information page and stay up to date on our upcoming webinars and zoom meetings

48 hour scope of appointment

Agents who plan to offer Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D coverage to beneficiaries, need to understand the CMS 48 hour scope of appointment rule.

Watch a quick YouTube video on the 48 hour rule

A SOA (Scope of Appointment) is an agreement that both the agent and client must sign before a scheduled in-person, phone or online appointment.  The SOA shows exactly which products the client and agent plan to discuss at their meeting.  This gives the agent as well as the client time to prepare for the discussion and helps to avoid high pressure sales tactics. This document is mandatory if there is a discussion about either Medicare Advantage and/or Part D prescription drug plans.

A scope of appointment may list several types of products the client wants to discuss, or it can be a basic form that lists only Medicare Advantage plans, Part D (PDP) plans, Ancillary products and Medicare supplements.  The products the beneficiary checks off are the products the agent has permission to discuss.

Agents who want to join our team; click here for online contract

How far ahead of time can you get the SOA

A signed SOA is good for up to 12 months before you meet with the client.  Some agents collect a new SOA at the end of an appointment to be prepared for the next meeting ahead of time.  It is important to remember the scope is only good for 12 months, once that time has passed, the client will need to sign a new scope.

Exceptions to the rule

1. One exception to the rule is the last four days of a valid election period. during the last four days of a valid election period.  At this time, agents can collect a same day Scope.
2. Another exception applies when the beneficiary walks into the agent’s office without an appointment. This is a beneficiary-initiated meeting, also referred to as a “walk in”.
3. The final exception is when the beneficiary calls the agent without a scheduled appointment.  This is a beneficiary-initiated call, therefore the 48 rule does not apply.

The CMS call recording requirements; learn more.

Ways to collect a SOA

Although the 48m hour rule was put in place as a way to protect beneficiaries, some may not like the inconvenience of having to meet twice to discuss their plan options. It is important to discuss the reason this rule is in place and let clients know you believe it is important to abide by the rules to maintain your integrity.

Please note; there is more than one way to comply with the 48 hour SOA rule.  Many carriers provide tools that allow agent to collect a voice scope.  Some Medicare FMOs also provide tools that not only provide voice scope tools but also call recording tools for voice enrollments.

Learn more about call recording requirements.

Of course, you can collect a paper scope if your client is willing to meet and sign at least 48 hours before your discussion.  You can also email the scope ahead and have the client send it back to you.  There are also tools such as Sunfire and Connecture that allow agents to send a link for clients to complete an online Scope before the meeting.

Watch our free Medicare training videos

To view more images  by this artist, click here

Medicare Part D 2024

In this post, we will discuss some important information about Medicare Part D 2024.

Medicare Part D plans cover the cost of prescription drugs for Medicare enrollees.  Private insurance companies offer these plans to beneficiaries.   In order to remain complaint, all plan providers must follow CMS’ rules.

Prescription plan costs

There are a few costs associated with Medicare prescription plan coverage.  One of those costs include the monthly plan premium, this amount can range greatly depending on the plan and carrier.  Beneficiaries can opt to have the premium deducted from their monthly Social Security payment.  If the beneficiary has a greater than average income, they may be subject to an IRMAA, an adjusted premium amount based on income.  The premium may also be adjusted for those who have a lower-than-average income and qualify for Extra Help.

Other costs associated with Part D prescription are co-pays and coinsurance amounts paid at the pharmacy.  Many plans also include an annual deductible.  In 2024, the maximum annual deductible has increased from $505 in 2023 to $545 for 2024.

For those who neglect to sign up for a Medicare Part D plan on time, a late enrollment penalty is added to the monthly cost.  The penalty applies to anyone who goes without creditable Part D coverage for a period of 63 or more days.  CMS applies the penalty for as long as the beneficiary has Part D coverage.

Changes for Medicare Part D for 2024 

Because of the Inflation Reduction Act that was signed into law in 2022, there will be changes to the Medicare Part D program.   One important change has to do with the cost Medicare beneficiaries pay for prescription drugs.

 Click here to learn about prescription drug caps

Here are some of the changes in place for 2024:

In 2024, Medicare PDP members who reach the catastrophic phase ($8,000 in 2024) will not pay any additional out-of-pocket costs for the remainder of the year.  This means they are no longer subject to a 5% copay.

PDP plans are no longer able to raise their premiums over 6% per year starting in 2024.

Beneficiaries who use insulin will pay no more than $35 for a 1-month supply for covered insulin brands.  It is important to check your plan’s formulary to confirm which brands they include.  This pricing is in effect until the end of 2025.

Medicare covers many adult vaccines at no cost to Medicare beneficiaries.  this includes the Shingles vaccine as well as TDAP (tetanus vaccine), Covid, flu vaccine, Hepatitis A and many others.

More Medicare beneficiaries will qualify for Extra Help to pay for their health care needs in 2024. This is because beneficiaries with an income of up to 150% of the federal poverty level (up from 135% in 2023) may be qualified for the Part D Extra Help.  This program pays the Part D annual deductible, monthly premium and ensures beneficiaries pay a lower cost for generic and brand name drugs.

A few changes to prescription drug plans in 2025 and 2026

In 2025, one of the changes to the Part D program is a $2,000 out-of-pocket maximum in place for PDP beneficiaries.  CMS is also starting a prescription payment plan program.  The program is referred to as “smoothing” and begins Jan 1, 2025.  This program gives beneficiaries an opportunity the spread out the cost of prescription medications out over the year by using a payment plan.

Click here to learn more about the prescription payment program

In 2026 price negotiations will begin for expensive drugs that have no generic alternatives.

Learn the details of the price negotiation program

To view a comprehensive guide to all the ins and outs of Medicare for 2024, click this link and  download a copy of CMS Medicare and You handbook for 2024.    Information on Medicare Part D starts around page 79.

Watch a quick YouTube video on the drug cap proposed for 2025

Take a look at some of the other compliance updates CMS has in place or has proposed for agents :

Watch a quick YouTube video on the CMS proposed rule CMS 4205-P an how this could effect our business

Find out more about the 2024 CMS call recording requirements

Make sure you are up-to-date with the SOA rules – click here and learn more

Take a look at our video on TPMO rules for 2024

If you are unsure of the differences between an educational event and a sales event, click here.  You may also want to read our blog on “Things you can’t say when selling Medicare“.

If you already have a contract with Crowe and want to add a carrier, click here

Agents who want to join the team at Crowe, click here for online contracting

Please note: agents who offer Medicare Part D plans need to complete annual carrier certifications as well as AHIP before they can offer the plans.  AHIP is an annual certification that CMS requires.  It includes marketing and compliance guidelines as well as FWA laws.

If you don’t follow the Medicare marketing rules, you risk losing commissions, termination of your contracts, losing your license and receiving fines.

To view more images by this artist, click here

How to get a replacement Medicare card

If you find yourself in need of a replacement Medicare card due to loss, damage, or a name change, the process is straightforward. We will go over the process to get a replacement Medicare card, ensuring you have access to your necessary healthcare information when you need it.

Find out about Medicare premiums.

The importance of a Medicare card

Before we dive into the replacement process, it’s essential to recognize the significance of your Medicare card. This card contains valuable information, such a as your Medicare number as well as the effective dates of your Part A and Part B coverage. Beneficiaries need to have access to it as proof of Medicare coverage when they require necessary medical services. Whether you’ve lost your card, or it’s been damaged, it is important to obtain a replacement card quickly.  This will help enrollees maintain their access to healthcare.

Ensure eligibility

If you are eligible for Medicare but have not enrolled yet, you need to complete the initial enrollment process before you request a replacement card. Once you complete your initial enrollment, you will receive your card within a few weeks.

Click here to learn about Medicare enrollment periods.

Ways to obtain a new Medicare card

There are a couple different ways to obtain a replacement Medicare card.  Because of this, beneficiaries can choose the method that they are most comfortable with. The two ways to get the new card are:

Online:

Beneficiaries can log into their personal account on the official Medicare website www.medicare.gov.  Once they are logged in, it is easy to follow the prompts and request the replacement card. This method is convenient and typically provides a quicker turnaround. Beneficiaries can print an official copy of their card from their online account to retrieve an immediate copy.

Over the phone:

To request a replacement card over the phone, contact Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Beneficiaries need to have their Medicare number as well as other pertinent information to verify your identity.

Provide necessary information

No matter what method you opt for, you need to provide personal information to verify your identity and facilitate the replacement of your card. It is imperative that you use only official channels to request the new card.  Medicare will need details such as your full name, Social Security number, date of birth, and even your Medicare number to verify your identity before they can process the request.

Confirm Your Address

Because Medicare will send the replacement card to the address on record, it is important to make sure you update your current address in the Medicare system if you move.  Keeping your records up to date will ensure you receive your new card a quickly as possible.

Learn the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans – watch a quick YouTube video

Be Patient

Once you submit your request your replacement card, it will take time for the request to be processed and sent out to you. The time required to process the request will vary depending on how busy the Medicare office is, so you need to be patient while you wait for the Medicare card to arrive.

Obtaining a replacement Medicare card is a straightforward process.  Following these steps and keeping your information current, will ensure the process is smooth should you need a replacement card.

If you want to view more images by this artist, click here

Wellcare prescription plans

Because the ability to access affordable prescription medications is crucial to maintaining good health, beneficiaries must be aware of all their options.  In order to help individuals make an informed decision, we will discuss some benefits of the WellCare prescription drug plans.

Important; CMS has guidelines in place to regulate the types of medications that prescription drug plan providers must cover.  This includes a minimum standard of benefits for providers to follow. The formulary for each plan Each plan meets the requirements as required by law. Because each plan differs, the cost and drugs included in the formulary can vary.

Find out about the Medicare drug price negotiations

Although Wellcare offers three different plan choices, it is important to review each plan formulary and make sure it provides coverage to fit the prescription needs for anyone considering enrollment.

The three Wellcare PDP plans for 2024

Some features of the Wellcare prescription plans

Wellcare has no or low premium plans available to provide coverage for individuals who qualify for Extra Help.  These plans are available in all states and offer low or no copays when enrollees purchase prescriptions from preferred pharmacies.

Some Wellcare plans include no deductible, so plans cover prescriptions on day one.

Wellcare has a nationwide network of preferred pharmacies that includes thousands of national, regional and local pharmacy chains. It also includes grocers and independent pharmacies as well.  These relationships help plan members save money on prescription drugs.

Use this link to the Wellcare preferred pharmacy tool and find a local in-network pharmacy.

Find a preferred pharmacy tool to find a local pharmacy.

The member service representatives are available either online at wellcare.com/PDP or by phone at 866-822-1339 (TTY – 711) during the hours of 8am – 8pm EST Monday – Friday. They can provide answers to members coverage or medication questions.

If you want to view the plan formulary (complete list of drugs each plan covers), visit Wellcare’s website or contact their member services department.