Medicare Advantage stands as the most rapidly growing sector within the health insurance market for those eligible for Medicare, highlighting its increasing prominence and appeal among consumers seeking Medicare coverage options.
Every day, 10,000 individuals in the U.S. celebrate their 65th birthday, stepping into the age of Medicare eligibility. This burgeoning demographic seeks knowledgeable agents to help them navigate the complex landscape of Medicare plans.
Medicare Advantage plans stand out in this scenario, providing a critical service for those who find Original Medicare insufficient for their healthcare needs.
Agents equipped with a comprehensive suite of Medicare Plan options, including Medicare Advantage, can offer tailored, cost-effective solutions for a diverse range of healthcare requirements, ensuring clients receive the optimal benefits not covered by Original Medicare.
What is an FMO?
A Field Marketing Organization (FMO) plays a pivotal role in empowering independent insurance agents by enhancing their sales and client retention strategies. Through unparalleled customer support and access to cutting-edge resources and tools, an FMO acts as a vital partner for agents aiming to excel in the competitive insurance market. This partnership ensures agents are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of their clients efficiently.
Steps to become an Insurance Agent: See Get Started Selling Medicare
Get the Right Insurance License
Pre-licensing Course: Requirement: Complete your state's mandated pre-licensing course and pass the certification exam. Note: Each state has unique requirements for course duration and content.
Licensing Exam: Next Step: After successful completion of the pre-licensing course, sit for your state's official licensing exam.
Background Check: Procedure: Pass a background check, which may vary by state and can include fingerprinting, after clearing the licensing exam.
Apply for License: Final Step: With all exams passed, apply for your insurance license through the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR).
Obtain Error & Omissions (E&O) Insurance:
E&O is a critical safeguard for insurance agents, providing essential liability coverage. Here's why it's indispensable:
Risk Management: Protects against claims arising from errors or omissions in your professional services.
Financial Security: Shields you and your agency from the financial burden of legal fees associated with these claims.
Complete the AHIP Medicare Certification:
Essential Certification: AHIP certification is mandatory for agents intending to sell Medicare Advantage plans.
Affordable Investment: The test fee is $175, but we provide a discount, making it a cost-effective step towards boosting your sales, especially during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP).
Simple Certification Process:
Website Navigation: Start by creating a new account or logging into an existing one on the AHIP website.
Plan Selection: Choose the certification year and opt for continuing education credits for added benefits.
Preparation and Exam: Complete the training modules and quizzes to prepare, aiming for a 90% or higher score on the AHIP exam.
Certificate Management: Ensure you print, save, or transmit your certificate to keep it secure. Additional Benefits with ExecutiveFMO:
Support and Updates: Contracting with ExecutiveFMO grants access to weekly newsletters and regular updates, including information on further AHIP certification discounts at no additional cost.
Enrollment Periods
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): A seven-month window surrounding an individual's 65th birthday, allowing first-time Medicare enrollment.
Open Enrollment Period (OEP): From January 1 to March 31, permitting changes between Medicare Advantage (MA) plans or a switch to Part D.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): Occurring from October 15 to December 7, this is the primary time for switching from Original Medicare to an MA plan.
Special Enrollment Period (SEP): Available for specific life events such as relocation or loss of coverage, with eligibility for changes to coverage or Special Needs Plans (SNPs) under certain conditions.
General Enrollment Period (GEP): From January to March for those who missed their IEP, though penalties may apply and coverage starts July 1. Each period serves a specific purpose, ensuring flexibility and access to necessary coverage adjustments based on individual circumstances.