For Medicare agents, the time between the Open Enrollment Period (OEP) and the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) can feel like a lull. The hustle of enrollment season slows down, and with that, so does the motivation. But in reality, this "off-season" is one of the most critical stretches of the year for building business, sharpening skills, and positioning yourself for a record-breaking AEP. Not to mention building a pipeline year-round to keep you busy.

For Medicare agents, success starts with preparations, and that includes staying current on annual certifications. Every year, AHIP (America's Health Insurance Plans) and carrier-specific recertifications are required to legally and compliantly sell Medicare Advantage and Part D Plans. While this can seem like a daunting task, having a plan and the proper support from your agency makes it manageable.