How Agents Can Prepare for AEP
AEP (Annual Enrollment Period) is just over a month away, starting from October 15th through December 7th, which means the busy season is here. For agents, now’s the time to gear up and prepare effectively. Here’s how:
Collect Certifications:
Every agent should have completed their AHIP certification. If you haven't, you should contact your agency now to set it up. Before you can sell for any carriers, this must be completed.
Complete Carrier Certifications:
To sell Medicare plans, you must be certified annually by each carrier. This process is different for all of them, so contact your agency to get this done as soon as possible. For JAR agents, please reach out to the credentialing team.
Review Carrier Plans:
Medicare carriers make changes to their plans yearly. Some may even be discontinued. It is important that you review plans offered by each carrier in your state so you can be as educated as possible for your clients. There may also be new plans and new carriers, so keep an eye out in case you want to add them to your portfolio.
Order Marketing Materials:
Stay prepared with the necessary marketing materials. JAR recently rolled out the JAR Print Portal, accessible to all JAR agents. This portal is your go-to place for ordering marketing materials. The 2024 approved material templates, especially designed for AEP, will be available soon for orders. Stay tuned to the agent portal and your email notifications for more updates.
Prospecting:
Hosting seminars at local community centers is a popular option for prospecting your local area. Offer a Medicare educational event (like Medicare 101) with the intention of educating your audience on the basics of Medicare. Remember you cannot take enrollments or discuss plan specifics at this event. You can book follow-up appointments to do so.
Anticipate Client Needs:
Medicare beneficiaries are likely to suffer from decision fatigue once they see all their options. Dedicate time to understanding their needs so you can better advise them to find the right plan for them.
Client Retention:
Client meetings should be planned after October 1st once everyone has received their Annual Notice of Change, so it is easier to discuss plans. Plan to meet with clients who are under the same carrier and plan as a group to stay on top of all of them at once. That way you won’t get stretched too thin. Remember: you cannot take any enrollment forms until October 15th.
JAR agents, remember to check your email and agent portal for more information.
Not a JAR agent? Find out what you’re missing out on here: https://www.jarinsuranceservices.com/work-with-us