The 2026 Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is right around the corner — running from October 15 through December 7, 2025. For insurance agents, this is the busiest and most important season of the year. Preparation is key to ensuring you can serve your clients with confidence, stay fully compliant with CMS rules, and make the most of every opportunity.
To help you get ready, we’ve pulled together essential guidelines and best practices that will make your AEP smoother and more successful.
Compliance is the foundation of a successful AEP. Make sure you are familiar with CMS’s latest marketing and enrollment guidelines, including:
Required disclaimers on all consumer-facing materials
Proper handling of Scope of Appointment (SOA) forms
Rules for call recording and retention
Prohibitions against cross-selling non-health products during Medicare appointments
Following these rules not only keeps you compliant but also builds trust with your clients.
Click here to view the AEP Compliance Guidelines
One of the biggest changes for 2026 is the Part D $2,000 out-of-pocket cap. This historic update means beneficiaries will have more predictable and manageable prescription drug costs. As an agent, it’s crucial to understand how this change will impact your clients — and be ready to answer their questions about how the cap works and which plans provide the most value under the new rules.
Each carrier has its own enrollment processes, marketing materials, and compliance standards. Be sure you:
Review carrier playbooks ahead of AEP
Familiarize yourself with carrier portals and technology platforms
Understand submission timelines for applications and required documentation
Being proactive here saves you time and prevents delays during the enrollment crunch.
Beyond compliance and carrier rules, successful agents focus on client relationships and operational efficiency. A few tips:
Start early: Reach out to clients before AEP begins to review their needs.
Stay organized: Use a CRM to track conversations, SOAs, and follow-ups.
Document everything: Notes and records protect you if questions arise later.
Educate clearly: Simplify plan comparisons so clients feel confident in their decisions.
Now is the time to review your playbook and sharpen your tools. Make sure you’ve downloaded the full AEP Compliance Guidelines and carrier resources to keep everything at your fingertips.
📘 Click here to view the AEP Compliance Guidelines
AEP 2026 is packed with opportunity — but also responsibility. By staying on top of compliance, preparing for key policy changes like the Part D cap, and keeping your client conversations clear and professional, you’ll be ready to make this enrollment season your most successful yet.
Don’t go into AEP alone. Contact PSM Brokerage today and get the compliance support, technology, and marketing tools you deserve. ☎︎ Schedule a call