The 2018 Annual Enrollment Period is nearly upon us. To assist you this AEP, we’ve cataloged a list of resources we think will be most effective in helping you stay organized, efficient, and sane throughout the hectic last quarter of the year. But remember, this list is by no means exhaustive. If you need assistance, advice, or just a listening ear about anything, please don’t hesitate to give Senior Marketing Specialists a call. We’ve got an arsenal of tools and resources for you.

1. Senior Marketing Specialists 2018 AEP Toolbox

   Holy AEP! This resource is a compilation of all the forms, walkthroughs, and links you need to survive AEP. It houses important information on compliance and detailed instructions for certifying and submitting business. No more searching for the correct fax cover sheet. No more confusion over AHIP. We’ve got your back.

2. Live Chat on SMSteam.net

   This feature allows you instantly converse with a Agent Support Team member through an instant messaging system. It’s the perfect tool to use when you have a question, but can’t give us a call. In front of a client? Already on the phone? Hit us up on Live Chat! Visit smsteam.net and click the chat head in the bottom right corner of the homepage.

3.  Medicare Plan Finder on Medicare.gov

   Help your clients find the best plans for their needs! Simply enter client information and the program will automatically show available plans. You can even save client drug lists and choose preferred pharmacies.

4. Senior Marketing Specialists Quote Engine

   While the SMS Quote Engine is an essential tool year round, our “Fill the Gaps” tool is perfect for AEP. This feature allows you to fill Medicare Advantage coverage gaps with a Hospital Indemnity plan. This cuts out-of-pocket costs for your clients. Here’s the perfect video walkthrough. Click here to sign in or request an account!

5. Medicare and You Handbook

   This CMS publication is the senior insurance agent’s bible. Not only does it outline important dates and costs, but it gives detailed descriptions on all things Medicare. It’s the perfect teaching aid for appointments! Your clients will be at ease when you use a publication they recognize and trust. How do I get a Medicare and You book? You’ve got a few options. Click here for the 2018 online PDF version, give us a call and we’ll send you a physical copy, or pick one up at your local Social Security office!

6. SMS AEP Planning Guide

   Our 2018 AEP Toolbox includes the AEP Planning Guide. BUT it’s such an awesome tool that we had to give it its own section! Check out the downloadable version to help you plan for AEP.

7. Dedicated SMS Agent Support Team

   We want you to spend all your valuable time doing what you do best. Selling. Let us do the other stuff. Let Senior Marketing Specialists be your back office support. Do you have a client who needs new ID cards? Did you not get paid the correct commission on a policy? Is one of your applications pending? Senior Marketing Specialists has an entire department dedicated to helping agents with these complications, plus so much more. Call today at 800-689-2800 or for non-emergency support fill out the form on our website or email support@smsteam.net.

8. SMS Strategy Session

   With AEP fast approaching, now is a great time to take a look at your business plan. SMS offers one-on-one strategy meetings to contracted agents to ensure they are getting the most from their marketing, appointment, and overall business models. Call today to set up a strategy session in our office, your office, or over the phone! 800-689-2800, or take the first step and complete the agent fact finder here.

9. Agent Guide to Marketing in the Medicare Arena

   This publication has everything an independent agent in the senior market needs to know about prospecting and referrals. While there are heavy marketing restrictions on Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug plans, remember that AEP is a busy season for Medicare Supplements as well! Find tons of helpful marketing tips and tricks in this quick read. Click here to get your copy!

10. talkingMEDICARE with Mangus

    Written Vice President of Sales, Dan Mangus, talkingMEDICARE is full of market updates, insurance insight, new product information, and other helpful goodies. Download the 2017 e-edition here.

With these free resources and Senior Marketing Specialists at your side, there’s nothing you can’t handle.