Intro:
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is a goldmine for Medicare agents — but it can also be overwhelming if you’re new. Here’s what you need to know about the Medicare landscape, how to prepare, and what to avoid.
What Is AEP (And Why It Matters)?
AEP runs October 15 to December 7. It’s the window when clients can switch Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. For agents, this is the busiest — and most profitable — time of year.
Medicare Basics: The Fast Breakdown
- Part A: Hospital insurance
- Part B: Outpatient/doctor services
- Part C: Medicare Advantage (private insurance alternative to A & B)
- Part D: Prescription drug plans
- Medigap: Supplements Original Medicare (A & B)
Compliance is Non-Negotiable
CMS rules are strict. You must follow permission-to-contact protocols, use only approved materials, and document everything.
🛠 Tool Tip: Agency Engineer provides CMS-approved scripts, scope of appointment forms, and compliance checklists.
What To Prep Before AEP
- Certify with all your carriers
- Organize your quoting tools
- Review last year’s client changes
- Automate your AEP outreach campaigns
🛠 Tool Tip: AE’s AEP dashboard centralizes all of this — with reminders, quoting shortcuts, and lead tracking.
Common Rookie Mistakes
- Trying to learn every plan
- Ignoring Med Supps
- Overcomplicating explanations
- Not setting daily call/meeting targets
Conclusion:
Master the basics, prep with the right tools, and you’ll win AEP — even in your first year. With Agency Engineer, you won’t just survive the season. You’ll thrive in it.
