Lead Star Medicare Leads

Lead Star Medicare Leads

Lead Star Medicare Leads
j
Comments

What You’ll Learn from Episode 26 of Insurance360: Smarter, Compliant Medicare Lead Generation with “Professor Leads”

If you’re in the insurance world, or just curious about where it’s headed, you’re going to love Episode 26 of our Insurance360 podcast. In this episode, we sit down with none other than Bill DeCourcey, a.k.a. “Professor Leads,” for an eye-opening conversation about what’s working right now in Medicare lead generation, and how to do it all by the book.

Let’s break it down. 

Setting the Scene

Bill, who’s well-known in the industry for his practical, no-fluff insights, joins our host for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of insurance. With his trademark energy and real-talk style, Bill shares what he’s seeing on the front lines and how both agents and agencies can adapt.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

How the Industry is Evolving

The insurance game is changing fast. Bill kicks things off by discussing the significant shifts occurring in the industry, driven by technological innovations and increasing consumer expectations. Whether you’re a carrier, an agent, or a client, these changes are touching everyone.

Customer Service is Getting an Upgrade

Next, Bill delves into how agents are enhancing their service offerings. From AI-driven tools to streamlined onboarding processes, he explains how smart innovation can make life easier for both agents and clients, and why staying ahead of these trends is essential.

 Navigating the Compliance Maze

Of course, no talk about Medicare lead generation would be complete without touching on compliance. Bill breaks down the current regulatory headaches, what might be changing, and how to stay on the right side of the rules while still growing your business.

Bill’s Big Takeaway

Bill wraps up the episode with a powerful reminder: in a space that’s constantly shifting, staying informed and flexible isn’t optional, it’s essential. If you’re an agent, a marketer, or just someone interested in the insurance space, you need to keep learning and evolving.

Why This Episode Matters

This isn’t just another industry podcast. Bill’s take is real, relatable, and refreshingly straightforward. He has a way of simplifying the complex stuff, so whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, you’ll walk away with practical insights you can use.

Want More?

Don’t miss the full episode, it’s packed with more nuggets than we could fit here. Tune in, take notes, and subscribe to Insurance360 so you never miss a conversation that could change how you do business.

 [Listen to Episode 26 now]
Got questions or takeaways of your own? Drop us a comment or share the episode with someone in your network who should hear it!

Want to Get Started with Effective Compliant Medicare Leads?

Complete today- Spot Sign

Stay Up to Date on Insurance 360 Podcast- Insurance 360 Podcast

Request Lead Star Account- info@pfsinsurance.com

 

For more information, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services representative today 1 (800) 772-6881 x7731 | sales@pfsinsurance.com

Vice President of Marketing

Contact a Pinnacle Representative if you have any questions.

1 (800) 772-6881 support@pfsinsurance.com

Contact Us

Contact a Pinnacle Financial Service representative today for assistance.

CallEmail
Understanding Referral Fees in Insurance: What Agents Need to Know

Understanding Referral Fees in Insurance: What Agents Need to Know

Understanding Referral Fees in Insurance: What Agents Need to Know
j
Comments

Understanding the ins and outs of referral fees is key to staying compliant and protecting your insurance license. Whether you’re an agent or running an agency, knowing what you can and can’t do helps you avoid costly missteps. This guide breaks down the dos and don’ts, answers common questions, and shares practical tips to help you build ethical, compliant referral relationships with confidence.

What Is a Referral Fee?

A referral fee is any cash, gift, or compensation—direct or indirect—provided by a licensed agent or agency to an unlicensed individual or entity for the purpose of soliciting insurance business. This practice is highly regulated, and any missteps can result in severe penalties.

What’s Allowed vs.  What’s Not

Here’s a clear breakdown to help agents stay compliant with state insurance laws and Medicare Marketing Guidelines.

You Can:

  • Receive compliant referrals from providers (if initiated by the provider and compliant with CMS guidelines)
  • Pay referral fees to other licensed agents or agencies (check state rules for any variations)
  • Accept nominal gifts (up to $15 per person, $75 annually) from or give them to customers, as long as they are not cash or monetary
  • Receive referral fees from licensed Medicare Advantage organizations (up to $100 for MAPD/MA and $25 for PDP plans in 2025)
  • Provide beneficiaries with non-monetary nominal gifts

 You cannot:

  • Pay referral fees to providers, consumers, or unlicensed individuals
  • Offer cash or rebates to consumers in exchange for referrals
  • Use or accept patient lists from providers without proper written consent
  • Provide any compensation for a referral from someone who is not licensed to sell insurance

Rebating: Know the Risks

Rebating is the act of offering financial incentives to influence the sale of insurance. This includes giving back a portion of your commission or offering anything of value to entice a customer. Rebating is illegal in most states and may result in license termination or other disciplinary actions.

Examples of Rebating:

  • Paying a customer for a referral
  • Offering to waive part of a premium
  • Giving gift cards or cash for enrolling in a plan 

Best Practices to Stay Compliant

  • ✔ Always confirm the license status of anyone you’re exchanging referral fees with
  • ✔ Check your state’s rules before paying or receiving referral fees—even between licensed agents
  • ✔ Get written authorization before contacting any referred individual
  • ✔ Keep detailed records of all referral sources and communications

 

Need Help Navigating Referral Compliance?

Understanding the nuances of referral fee regulations can be complex, but you don’t have to figure it out alone.

      Schedule a consultation with our compliance experts.
      Request more information on staying compliant with Medicare and state guidelines.

Protect your license. Grow your business the right way.

[Contact Us Today] – Let’s ensure your referral strategy is fully compliant.  Information is subject to change without notice.  Always check with compliance.

For more information, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services representative today 1 (800) 772-6881 x7731 | sales@pfsinsurance.com

Vice President | Marketing

Contact a Pinnacle Representative if you have any questions.

1 (800) 772-6881 support@pfsinsurance.com

Contact Us

Contact a Pinnacle Financial Service representative today for assistance.

CallEmail
Successful Retirement Seminar

Successful Retirement Seminar

Successful Retirement Seminar
j
Comments

How to Host a Successful Retirement Seminar (and Turn Social Security Prospects into Clients)

Hosting a retirement seminar isn’t just about putting on a presentation — it’s about making real connections with people who are looking for guidance. Whether you want to educate your community, grow your business, or both, this guide will walk you through exactly how to plan a retirement seminar that leaves a lasting impression (and brings new clients through the door).

Start Strong: Welcome Your Audience

First impressions matter. Start your seminar with a warm, genuine welcome. Introduce yourself, thank everyone for coming, and share a little bit about your background. If you have any co-hosts or guest speakers, make sure they’re introduced too. People are more likely to listen and engage when they feel comfortable right from the beginning.

Why Retirement Seminars Are So Important

There’s a huge need for financial education right now. In fact, 95% of retirement savers say having a financial plan is critical, but 81% worry they haven’t saved enough. Hosting a retirement seminar can position you as the expert who helps solve these worries.

Know Who You’re Talking To

Before you dive into planning, think about your audience. Are you targeting retirees, pre-retirees, high-income earners, or middle-income families? Tailoring your content to their specific needs will make your seminar more effective and engaging.

Focus Your Content on What Matters

Keep your topics sharp and highly relevant. Make sure you cover key areas like:

Bonus tip: Bringing in guest speakers (like a CPA, Medicare expert, or estate planner) adds credibility and variety to your presentation.

 

Get the Word Out: Promote Your Seminar

Promotion can make or break your event. Use direct mail, email marketing, and social media to create excitement. Companies like Leading Response can help you fill your seats by targeting the right people.

And don’t be afraid to sweeten the deal — offering small incentives or giveaways can drive up attendance.

Choose a Great Venue

Location is key. Make sure your venue is easy to find, has plenty of parking, and fits the size of your expected crowd. Also, double-check that it has the audiovisual equipment you’ll need for a smooth presentation.

Keep It Interactive

Nobody wants to sit through a boring lecture. Get your audience involved by asking questions, encouraging small group discussions, or using quick surveys. Handouts and worksheets also keep attendees engaged and give them something to take home.

Follow Up After the Seminar

The magic happens after the seminar. Send a thank-you email or handwritten note and invite attendees to schedule a one-on-one meeting. Following up quickly shows that you value their time and keeps the conversation going.

Practice Makes Perfect

Finally, don’t wing it. Practice your talk several times, especially with your guest speakers if you have them. Also, consider your audience’s schedule when planning the day and time for your event — evenings and weekends often work best.

Final Thoughts

Retirement seminars are an incredible way to connect, educate, and grow your client base. With thoughtful preparation, targeted content, and strong follow-up, you’ll not only host a successful event, you’ll also build lasting relationships.

Need help getting your seminar off the ground? Contact us to get expert support on planning, promoting, and presenting an unforgettable retirement seminar.

Seminar Planning Video- Seminar Systems with Jennifer DeBuhr from LeadingResponse

Sign up for Seminar Services- Spot Sign

For more information, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services representative today 1 (800) 772-6881 x7731 | sales@pfsinsurance.com

Senior Sales Director - Life, Annuity, & LTC

Contact a Pinnacle Representative if you have any questions.

1 (800) 772-6881 support@pfsinsurance.com

Contact Us

Contact a Pinnacle Financial Service representative today for assistance.

CallEmail
GTL Short Term Care Insurance

GTL Short Term Care Insurance

GTL Short Term Care Insurance
j
Comments

Unlocking the Benefits of GTL’s Short-Term Home Healthcare Plans

We’re excited to share key takeaways from our recent webinar highlighting GTL’s Short-Term Home Healthcare — a valuable addition to your product portfolio. In this post, we’ll walk you through the essential features of the plan and why it’s an excellent fit for your clients.

Introducing GTL’s Short-Term Home Healthcare Plan

GTL’s Short-Term Home Healthcare insurance is designed to help clients manage out-of-pocket costs for in-home healthcare services, such as deductibles and co-pays.
With recent Medicare and private insurance changes leading to higher costs and reduced benefits, this plan can provide critical support, helping clients fill important coverage gaps and maintain access to the care they need at home.

How the Plan Works

The plan pays a daily benefit for each day that qualifying home healthcare services are received.
There are three plan options available, with benefits extending up to 360 days.
Eligibility requires certification from a licensed healthcare professional that the insured either:

  • Has a cognitive impairment, or
  • Needs substantial assistance with at least two out of six Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), including feeding, grooming, bathing, toileting, transferring, and dressing.

Where Coverage is Available

GTL’s Short-Term Home Healthcare product is currently offered in multiple states, including Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, and others. Availability varies, so it’s important to confirm your client’s state eligibility before moving forward. 

Addressing Medicare Gaps

Medicare does not cover certain essential services like:

  • 24/7 home care
  • Home-delivered meals
  • Homemaker services
  • Personal care from home health aids

GTL’s plan steps in to fill these gaps, providing your clients with coverage for services that traditional Medicare often leaves behind. 

Plan Options and Benefits

Clients can choose from three daily benefit levels:

  • Plan A: $150 per day
  • Plan B: $300 per day
  • Plan C: $450 per day

Each plan covers a range of services, including:

  • Skilled nursing care
  • General nursing care
  • Speech pathology
  • Occupational therapy

Additionally, the plan includes daily and lifetime maximums for Home Health Aide services, ensuring broad and flexible support.

Built-In Prescription Drug Benefits

A standout feature of GTL’s offering is the Prescription Drug Benefit.
Depending on the selected plan, clients may receive reimbursement for both brand-name and generic medications, adding meaningful value and helping to offset rising prescription costs. 

Optional Riders for Enhanced Protection

For added customization, clients can enhance their coverage with optional riders such as:

  • Accident and Sickness Hospitalization Rider
  • Ambulance and Critical Accident Rider
  • Return of Premium Upon Death Rider

These riders offer flexibility to tailor the plan to fit unique client needs and concerns.

Final Thoughts: Why GTL’s Short-Term Home Healthcare Matters

GTL’s Short-Term Home Healthcare plan is a smart, straightforward solution to address the growing needs of today’s consumers. 

Watch on YouTube- Webinar | GTL Short Term Home Care

To contract with GTL- https://www.pfsinsurance.com/spot

For more information, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services representative today 1 (800) 772-6881 x7731 | sales@pfsinsurance.com

Regional Sales Director

Contact a Pinnacle Representative if you have any questions.

1 (800) 772-6881 support@pfsinsurance.com

Contact Us

Contact a Pinnacle Financial Service representative today for assistance.

CallEmail
Canadian Medstore

Canadian Medstore

Canadian Medstore
Comments

Tackling Prescription Costs Head-On with the Canadian Medstore: A Fresh Perspective

In this latest episode, Bob and Rob take on one of the most pressing issues in healthcare today, prescription drug costs. As the complexities of the healthcare industry continue to grow, they cut through the noise to focus on what truly matters: affordable options for those who need them most. This week, they welcome Bill Hepsher of The Canadian Medstore, offering listeners a practical approach to lowering prescription expenses.

Diving into the Prescription Drug Maze

The conversation zeroes in on real-world solutions, particularly for Medicare clients facing the burden of high prescription costs. Bill Hepsher, drawing on two decades of industry experience, joins Bob and Rob to share insights into how The Canadian Medstore helps individuals save significantly on their medications. His expertise offers a fresh perspective for agents and clients alike, highlighting strategies that make a meaningful difference.

Where Medicare Part D Falls Short

Early in the episode, Bob reflects on insights from a recent Medicare event, where even amidst updates like Part D changes and the Inflation Reduction Act, prescription costs remain a struggle for many. This recurring challenge reignited Bob’s determination to seek effective solutions, bringing him back to his initial conversation with Bill. Their shared mission, to empower insurance professionals with tools to help clients lower drug costs, sets the tone for an informative conversation.

The Story Behind Canadian Medstore

Bill’s journey into the prescription savings space is rooted in personal experience. His brother’s battle with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and the exorbitant cost of anti-rejection medications led Bill to explore affordable alternatives. Discovering lower-priced options through Canadian pharmacies, he turned this personal mission into a broader effort to assist Americans in accessing essential medications without crossing the border. The result was the founding of The Canadian Medstore, now a trusted resource for affordable prescriptions.

Tariffs, Politics, and Prescription Drugs

Amid ongoing economic shifts and global politics, questions arise about the stability of cross-border prescription options. Bill addresses these concerns directly, explaining how individual prescriptions from Canada remain unaffected by tariffs for now. However, he acknowledges the ever-changing landscape and assures listeners that he remains vigilant in monitoring developments that could impact access.

A Game-Changer for Healthcare Agents

The episode takes an exciting turn for healthcare agents, positioning The Canadian Medstore as more than just a patient resource. Bill emphasizes how agents can leverage this partnership to help Medicare clients save on high-cost, non-generic medications like Eliquis. By offering clients alternative solutions for navigating formularies and premium challenges, agents can significantly enhance their value and strengthen client relationships.

This approach goes beyond simply filling prescriptions, it bridges critical gaps for clients who might otherwise feel left without options. Bill and his team provide agents with an additional tool to support their clients’ healthcare journeys.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Affordable Meds

As the discussion wraps up, Bob and Rob reflect on the importance of accessible prescription options, especially as healthcare policies and economic conditions continue to evolve. They underscore the need for dependable alternatives like The Canadian Medstore, which serve as a safeguard against rising drug costs and the limitations of programs like Medicare Part D.

The episode closes with a call to action for agents, healthcare professionals, and anyone committed to helping others: explore The Canadian Medstore as a resource for clients facing prescription cost challenges.

To watch or listen, visit the Insurance 360 Podcast to get all the conversation.

Insurance 360 Podcast

To get signed up to offer Part D Plans- www.pfsinsurance.com/spot

 

For more information, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services representative today 1 (800) 772-6881 x7731 | sales@pfsinsurance.com

Vice President Marketing

Contact a Pinnacle Representative if you have any questions.

1 (800) 772-6881 support@pfsinsurance.com

Contact Us

Contact a Pinnacle Financial Service representative today for assistance.

CallEmail
Cross Selling Hospital Indemnity

Cross Selling Hospital Indemnity

Cross Selling Hospital Indemnity
j
Comments

Let’s Talk About Hospital Indemnity

A Smart Cross-Sell Strategy for Medicare Agents

By Dustin Ofsharick

In this ever-changing healthcare market, staying flexible and thinking forward is key. One of the best ways to do that? Cross-selling hospital indemnity plans. I’m not just talking about adding another product to your lineup, this is a strategic move that can create more value for your clients and more income for your business. Let me break down why hospital indemnity should be part of your game plan if you’re already working in the Medicare Advantage space.

Why Bother with Hospital Indemnity?

Simply put, it’s one of the strongest cross-selling opportunities out there, especially if you’re focused on Medicare Advantage. These plans help you stay connected with your clients while bringing in a reliable, year-round income. That’s right, no election period. You can talk about hospital indemnity at any time, which makes it a powerful tool to diversify your sales.

Cross-Selling Isn’t Just a Nice-to-Have—It’s a Must

Here’s the truth: when clients have multiple policies with you, they’re much less likely to leave. A Medicare Advantage plan paired with hospital indemnity coverage creates a solid safety net, giving your clients peace of mind while positioning you as the go-to expert in their eyes.

Why Now Is the Right Time

We’ve all seen the changes, non-commissionable PDPs, and shifting product landscapes. That’s why it’s more important than ever to explore other revenue streams. Hospital indemnity is easy to understand, simple to explain, and incredibly relevant. The more you get to know this product, the easier it becomes to fit naturally into your sales process.

How to Bring It Up in Client Conversations

This part doesn’t have to be awkward or forced. Just ask:
“Who do you have your hospital coverage with?”
That one question can open the door to a deeper conversation. Even if they don’t know what hospital indemnity is, this gives you a perfect opportunity to explain Medicare’s inpatient costs—and how a hospital indemnity plan can cover those gaps.

Make the Value Crystal Clear

When you’re comparing plans for clients, walk them through a simple scenario. Pair a $0 premium Medicare Advantage plan with a low-cost hospital indemnity plan, and show them how much coverage they can get for just a few more dollars a month. That side-by-side comparison can be a real eye-opener.

Don’t Miss Key Opportunities

Think about the timing. AEP, OEP, annual reviews, these are golden moments to bring up hospital indemnity. It’s a year-round product, so take advantage of those conversations to educate clients on how it helps protect against unexpected medical expenses.

Use Your Tools

Need a quote? Pinnacle’s quoting tools make it easy—whether you’re in the office or out in the field. Run through some realistic hospital stay scenarios with your clients. Once they see the potential out-of-pocket costs, the value of having a hospital indemnity plan becomes very real.

Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about growing your business and serving your clients at a higher level, hospital indemnity should be on your radar. It’s not just about sales; it’s about being a smarter, more prepared advisor. The more you cross-sell, the more loyal your clients become, and the more your revenue grows.

Thanks for taking the time to read this. I hope you walk away with a fresh perspective on how hospital indemnity can strengthen your relationships and boost your business. Let’s keep pushing forward, smarter, stronger, and more client-focused than ever.

For more information, contact a Pinnacle Financial Services representative today 1 (800) 772-6881 x7731 | sales@pfsinsurance.com

Director of Sales - Health

Contact a Pinnacle Representative if you have any questions.

1 (800) 772-6881 support@pfsinsurance.com

Contact Us

Contact a Pinnacle Financial Service representative today for assistance.

CallEmail