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2025 Medicare Certification

2025 Medicare Certification

2025 Medicare Certification
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2025 Medicare certifications are right around the corner with the launch of AHIP (America’s Health Insurance Plans) and NABIP’s (National Association of Business Insurance Professionals) certifications in a little over a month. Typically, agents won’t begin the process until the major carriers launch their specific training for the 2025 season. This is partly due to the agents receiving a discount on the training from these companies through their portals.

What is AHIP and NABIP?

AHIP stands for American Health Insurance Plans and was established in 2003 through a merger of the Health Insurance Association of America and the American Association of Health Plans. AHIP offers Medicare training that is accepted by CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) and nationally by all Medicare insurance carriers.

NABIP stands for National Association of Business Insurance Professionals and is a non-profit professional association that was established in 1930. NABIP has chapters all over the country organized to promote common business interests to those engaged in the sale of health insurance products and services. A few years ago, NABIP launched its version of AHIP’s Medicare training to compete with other organizations. You can find all the details on that Here.

2025 Medicare Certifications: Current Dates to Remember

In planning for 2025 AEP, it is important to plan out and take all required certifications in a timely fashion. So far, AHIP and a handful of national carriers have announced the dates of when the new training will be available for agents. Here is a list with corresponding dates:

AHIP: June 24th

Devoted: June 24th

Elevance (Anthem): July 2nd

Clover: July 18th

Where does Pinnacle Financial Services come in?

Pinnacle Financial Services is a full-service “FMO” dedicated to helping agents across the country grow their book of business. It is essential to be prepared for the upcoming 2025 Medicare AEP season, and we have the tools here for your success! We offer the best back-office support in the industry, top-notch technology, and a national agent trainer to help guide you through the certification process. Give us a call today to set up a 2025 pre-certification call to ensure you are prepared and ready to go!

Need more guidance? Check out our AEP Toolkit

For more information, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services representative today

1 (800) 772-6881 x7731 | sales@pfsinsurance.com

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Best Medicare FMO

Best Medicare FMO

Best Medicare FMO
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The Medicare market has experienced significant growth, presenting an opportunity for independent insurance agents to grow their business’. Agents are actively seeking the top Medicare Field Marketing Organizations (FMOs) that specialize in assisting Medicare agents to partner in growing their business efficiently.

Explore the Best Medicare FMO Options with Pinnacle Financial Services

In the competitive world of Medicare agencies, independent agents are bombarded with claims from companies touting themselves as “The Best Medicare FMO” or “Top IMO.” Agents need to research to find a truly exceptional FMO. At Pinnacle Financial Services, we commit ourselves daily to being the top choice for our agent partners, prioritizing unparalleled service, technology solutions, and training across multiple product lines.

Why Pinnacle Financial Services Stands Out in the Medicare Market

With a long-standing history in the Medicare market, Pinnacle Financial Services understands the importance of a robust support structure for independent agents aiming to expand their business. Our commitment to excellence in service continues to drive our efforts in supporting agents.

What Pinnacle Financial Services Offers to Medicare Agents

We offer a comprehensive suite of tools and technologies at no cost to help agents succeed:

  • Medicare Quoting Tools: Easily quote plans using our apps for phones and tablets.
  • Connect4Insurance Access: Use the leading tool for Medicare quotes, comparison, and enrollment.
  • Efficient Online Contracting: Streamline your processes with our online system.
  • Free Lead Program: Jumpstart your sales efforts with access to free leads.
  • Competitive Medicare Commissions: Benefit from top-tier commission structures.
  • Comprehensive Training: Access ongoing training options both in-person and remotely.
  • Free Continuing Education Credits: Enhance your qualifications at no extra cost.
  • Advanced CRM System: Manage your client relationships effectively with our CRM solutions.

Take the Next Step in Your Medicare Career with Pinnacle Financial Services

Whether you are new to selling Medicare plans or a seasoned professional, Pinnacle Financial Services is here to support your growth. Our experienced staff is ready to address all your questions and guide you through the benefits of partnering with us.

Contact Pinnacle Financial Services Today

To learn more about how we can help elevate your Medicare business, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services representative at:

Phone: 1 (800) 772-6881 x7731

Email: sales@pfsinsurance.com

Take the first step towards becoming a top-performing Medicare agent with Pinnacle Financial Services, your partner in success.

For more information, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services representative today

1 (800) 772-6881 x7731 | sales@pfsinsurance.com

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2025 Part D Changes

2025 Part D Changes

2025 Part D Changes
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For the plan year 2025, CMS has announced some massive changes to the Part D program. These changes are in an effort to both streamline and simplify the Part D program for seniors.

Key Changes for 2025

Some of the key changes for 2025 for the part D program include:

  1. Removal of the Donut Hole (Gap Phase) and Initial Coverage Phase- These 2 are being merged together and will be now referred to as the “Standard Coverage Phase.” This condenses the Part D program from 4 phases to 3 (Deductible, Standard, Catastrophic).
  2. The Annual Out of Pocket (OOP) threshold is now $2,000 (changing from the current $8,000) TrOOP.
  3. The sunsetting of the Coverage Gap Discount Program (CGDP) and the establishment of the Manufacturer Discount Program. This will impact what drugs receive discounts, how they are counted towards the $2,000 OOP, and who is responsible for the cost beyond the set amount.

Where does Pinnacle Financial Services come in?

Pinnacle Financial Services is a full-service “FMO” that will always keep you in the know on industry changes. Medicare is always changing yearly and it’s best to understand new rules and regulations. Outside of the industry knowledge, Pinnacle has full-service back office support, top-notch training, and the best technology in the business. Don’t hesitate and call us today about an exclusive opportunity to market an IE-SNP product!

Check out the 2025 CMS Final Rule regulations proposed Here.

For more information, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services representative today

1 (800) 772-6881 x7731 | sales@pfsinsurance.com

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Understanding Dental Benefits in Medicare: A Simple Guide

Understanding Dental Benefits in Medicare: A Simple Guide

Understanding Dental Benefits in Medicare: A Simple Guide
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Medicare is health insurance for people 65 or older. You may be eligible to get Medicare earlier if you have a disability, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), or ALS (also called Lou Gehrig’s disease). 

Some people get Medicare automatically, others have to actively sign up — it depends if you start getting retirement or disability benefits from Social Security before you turn 65. 

It comprises various components, each of which addresses a distinct health requirement, much like puzzle pieces. We’re delving into Medicare’s treatment of dental benefits today, with a particular emphasis on Parts A and B and Medicare Advantage.

What are Parts A and B of Medicare?

On a high-level view, most of Part A is devoted to hospital insurance, skilled nursing care, and hospice care. Part B is dedicated to services from doctors and outpatient care.

Do Medicare Parts A & B Cover Dental?

This is where dental care can get a little complicated. Medicare Parts A and B typically do not cover routine dental care, including dental exams, cleanings, fillings, dentures, and the majority of tooth extractions.

There are a few exceptions, though. For instance, Part A might pay for dental care if you require it while in the hospital as part of a more extensive treatment plan. Consider that you are undergoing jaw surgery and that the procedure includes dental work. Since it’s seen as a component of your overall medical care in this instance, Medicare may be able to assist with the costs.

What About Medicare Advantage?

Things start to look up from here. Medicare Advantage Plans, sometimes referred to as Part C, are essentially an enhanced version of the original Medicare program. Medicare-approved private insurance providers provide these plans. One of its features is that many Medicare Advantage plans provide dental insurance. Keep in mind that Medicare Advantage Plans are not required to cover more than original Medicare Parts A and B, so not every MA plan will have dental.

Dental treatment for more involved procedures like crowns, bridges, and dentures as well as more basic procedures like cleanings, exams, X-rays, and fillings can be included in a Medicare Advantage Plan. It’s crucial to remember, though, that dental coverage varies greatly among Medicare Advantage plans. While some provide basic dental care, others might offer more extensive coverage.

Stand-alone Dental Coverage

Because they recognize how important dental health is, many Medicare beneficiaries inquire about dental coverage.  This is the point at which you can begin the dental coverage discussion through a stand-alone supplemental (stand-alone) dental plan.  There are numerous options, as well as dental insurance providers. Each plan offers a variety of coverage options, such as exams, cleanings, fillings, and other dental operations. It is important for beneficiaries to understand that dental plans work well only when they receive dental treatment from in-network providers. As an agent, you must confirm that the dentist they are thinking about is covered under that particular dental plan.

 

Delta Dental

Pinnacle Financial offers several options for stand-alone dental insurance. One such option, Delta Dental, is well-known for its strong network and benefits. Delta is also available in all 50 states and covers a wide variety of preventative and major services.  This can be a great option for individuals who have a Medicare Supplement plan as they do not cover any dental insurance.

To learn more about the different plan options available to your clients, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services team member today. They can be reached at 800-772-6881 x-7731 or by email at healthsales@pfsinsurance.com.

For more information, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services representative today

1 (800) 772-6881 x7731 | sales@pfsinsurance.com

Vice President- Marketing

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Humana Medicare Supplement Extra Services

Humana Medicare Supplement Extra Services

Humana Medicare Supplement Extra Services
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Medicare Supplement plans provide are important for paying costs not covered by original Medicare Parts A and B. With a Humana Medicare Supplement with extra services Humana has gone one step further. This package of extra benefits is intended to improve members’ overall healthcare experiences in addition to covering the gaps left by Medicare as part of a traditional Medicare Supplement.

Let’s explore these additional services:

Discounts on services

Vision Care: Members can save with providers in EyeMed’s Select network including LensCrafters®, Pearle Vision®, and Target Optical®.

Prescription medicine: Discounts available on some medicines at the drugstore with a Humana member ID.

Hearing aids and services: Discounts available through HearUSA and TruHearing®.

Lifeline medical alert system: Members can choose from multiple fall detection service options from Lifeline® at discounted prices.

Managing health

  • Humana Well Dine®*: Members may get 14 nutritious meals delivered to their door after an overnight stay in a hospital or nursing facility. *Not available in Montana or North Dakota.
  • HumanaFirst® Nurse Advice Line: A 24-hour a day, seven days a week toll-free line where members can speak with a registered nurse about non-emergency illnesses or injuries.
  • SilverSneakers fitness program**: Basic fitness center membership at any participating SilverSneakers® facilities. Includes group classes and working with a trained adviser to develop an exercise plan. SilverSneakers Steps®, an at-home option, is also available. **SilverSneakers is not available with Humana Achieve Medicare Supplement plans.
  • MyHumana Mobile app and website: Access to Humana.com or our secure mobile app to view plan benefits, claims, and more.

The programs and services described are not insurance and are neither contractually offered nor guaranteed under Humana Medicare Supplement insurance policies. They may be provided by a third party, discontinued at any time and are subject to geographic availability.

Expert assistance is only a phone call away for agents who are interested in learning more about how Humana’s Medicare Supplement Extra Services can fit with their clients. To get more information, call 800-772-6881 x-7731 to speak with a Pinnacle Financial Medicare professional.

For more information, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services representative today

1 (800) 772-6881 x7731 | sales@pfsinsurance.com

Vice President- Marketing

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1 (800) 772-6881
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4 Ways To Harness the Power of Life Insurance in Estate Planning

4 Ways To Harness the Power of Life Insurance in Estate Planning

4 Ways To Harness the Power of Life Insurance in Estate Planning
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While life insurance is commonly associated with providing financial protection for loved ones to cover final expenses, it can also serve as a valuable and versatile tool in estate planning. By understanding the various ways life insurance can be employed in estate plans, we can help our clients make informed decisions that align with their goals and objectives. Here are just four important ways life insurance can be used in retirement and estate planning:

1. Pay Estate Taxes

Estate taxes can pose a significant burden on the assets left behind. By incorporating life insurance into an estate plan, individuals can ensure that their beneficiaries have the necessary funds to cover these taxes.

In 2023, estates worth more than $12.92 million ($25.84 million for married couples) were subject to taxation of up to 40%. The tax bill is typically due within nine months of the estate owner’s death, which can create financial strain for heirs inheriting illiquid assets.

Life insurance proceeds can provide immediate liquidity, allowing heirs to address estate taxes without the need to sell assets at potentially below-market valuations.

2. Equalize Inheritance Distributions

In situations where there are multiple heirs and assets that are not easily divisible, life insurance can help equalize inheritance distributions.

A recent article from MassMutual highlights the example of a family business or valuable property that some heirs may wish to sell while others want to retain. By using life insurance, the heirs who wish to sell can be compensated with the death benefit proceeds, ensuring a fair and equitable distribution of assets. This approach helps preserve family harmony and the viability of the business or property.

3. Fund Irrevocable Trusts

Irrevocable trusts are commonly used in estate planning to protect assets and minimize estate taxes. Life insurance can be a powerful tool for funding these trusts.

By naming the trust as the beneficiary of a life insurance policy, the death benefit proceeds can be excluded from the estate, reducing potential estate tax liabilities. This strategy provides immediate liquidity to cover expenses or distributions outlined in the trust, ensuring that the intended beneficiaries receive their designated share.

4. Earmark Funds for Specific Purposes

Life insurance can also be used to earmark funds for specific purposes within an estate plan, like paying off divorce obligations or for child support.

By establishing a trust and designating the life insurance policy as the funding source, individuals can ensure that their financial obligations are met even after their passing. This approach provides a reliable source of funds and financial security for loved ones, alleviating potential financial burdens.

It’s crucial to have open and honest conversations with our clients about the benefits of incorporating life insurance into their estate planning. By understanding their unique circumstances and goals, we can help them make informed decisions that align with their needs. It’s important to emphasize that estate planning is a complex process, and consulting with an estate planning attorney is essential to ensure that the chosen strategies are appropriate and legally sound.

The Takeaways

Life insurance proceeds can provide immediate liquidity, allowing heirs to address estate taxes without the need to sell assets at potentially below-market valuations.

  1. By using life insurance, the heirs who wish to sell can be compensated with the death benefit proceeds, ensuring a fair and equitable distribution of assets.
  2. By naming an irrevocable trust as the beneficiary of a life insurance policy, the death benefit proceeds can be excluded from the estate, reducing potential estate tax liabilities.

Putting It Into Practice

Life insurance can be a powerful tool in estate planning, providing financial protection and flexibility for our clients and their beneficiaries. By educating ourselves and our clients about the various ways life insurance can be used, we can help them navigate the complexities of estate planning and achieve their goals.

For more information, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services representative today

1 (800) 772-6881 x7731 | sales@pfsinsurance.com

Senior Sales Director | Life, Annuity, and LTC

x7105 | gyodis@pfsinsurance.com

 

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