The dust has finally settled on the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) rush. You’ve survived the long hours, the endless coffee, and the mountain of applications. But as any seasoned agent knows, the work of securing a successful 2026 doesn’t end when the ball drops on New Year’s Eve.
From January 1 through March 31, we enter the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP). Think of this as your “safety net” season – a time to check in with your clients, fix any hiccups, and make sure no one is tempted to go elsewhere.
At AgentLink, we’re your partners in the trenches. Let’s look at how you can use this window to keep your book of business happy and healthy.
What’s the Deal with OEP 2026?
The Medicare OEP is specifically for clients already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan who might be feeling a little “buyer’s remorse.” Maybe they realized their favorite specialist isn’t in-network after all, or perhaps their prescription costs look different from what they expected.
During OEP, your clients can:
- Swap their current Medicare Advantage plan for a different one.
- Drop their MA plan, head back to Original Medicare, and pick up a standalone Part D plan.
This is a prime time for “agent-switching” if a client feels unsupported. By reaching out first, you show them you’re still in their corner long after the sale is closed.
The “January Check-In” Call: Your Secret Weapon
Don’t let the first time your client hears from you in 2026 be a generic birthday card in six months. A quick, friendly “January Check-In” can work wonders for your retention.
How to keep it friendly and helpful:
- The “Card Check”: Ask if their new ID card arrived and if they’ve had a chance to look at their welcome packet.
- The “Pharmacy Test”: Ask if they’ve used the plan at the pharmacy yet. This is where most “surprises” happen!
- The “Open Door”: Remind them that if something feels “off” with the plan, they have until March 31 to fix it, and you’re the one who can help.
Pro Tip: Remember that Master Tracking Sheet we talked about in December? Dust it off! Use it to prioritize calls to clients who seemed a little unsure during AEP or those who moved into brand-new plan types.
Proactive Service = A Business That Lasts
Let’s be real: insurance marketing is everywhere. Your clients are being bombarded with TV ads and mailers. The best way to block out that noise? Superior service.
When you provide a human touch, like reminding them to safely shred their 2025 ID cards so they don’t get confused at the doctor’s office, you aren’t just an agent; you’re a trusted friend. That’s the kind of loyalty that prevents “agent-switching” and brings in those gold-standard referrals.
We’ve Got Your Back
Navigating the post-AEP landscape can feel like a lot, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you need help tracking down a missing commission or want to brainstorm a better way to organize your client follow-ups, our team at AgentLink is here for you.
We’re committed to your success because when you win, we win.
Want to chat about your game plan for OEP? Reach out to AgentLink today. Let’s make 2026 your best year yet!
