Should Medicare Agents Worry About the New CMS Marketing Rule Expansion in 2026?
What did CMS actually expand in the marketing definition? CMS expanded the definition of “marketing” by going after the content standard — the part of the rule that used to let generic Medicare ads slip through without prior CMS submission. Under the older interpretation, an ad only counted as “marketing” if it both intended to […]
If You’re a Medicare Agent in San Antonio, Here’s How I’d Pick an FMO in 2026
What does a Medicare FMO actually do for an independent agent? A Medicare FMO (Field Marketing Organization) gives you access to carrier contracts, training, compliance support, and usually some combination of technology and marketing help. In plain English: they’re the layer between you and the carriers, and they’re supposed to make your day-to-day easier. The […]
Should Medicare Agents Loosen Their Marketing Rules Now That CMS Is Rolling Back the SOA Waiting Period and 12-Hour Event Rule?
What did CMS actually change in the CY 2027 Final Rule? CMS finalized the CY 2027 MA and Part D rule on April 2, 2026, and rolled back two of the most disruptive marketing restrictions agents have been working under. Specifically, the 48-hour SOA waiting period before meeting with a prospect is gone, and the […]
Best Medicare FMO in Austin for Independent Agents (2026 Honest Comparison)
What does an FMO actually do for an independent Medicare agent in Austin? An FMO (Field Marketing Organization) is the upline that gives you access to carrier contracts, training, technology, and support — without taking away your independence. For an Austin agent, a good FMO should also understand the Texas carrier landscape, state-specific compliance quirks, […]
What the CMS 2027 Final Rule Means for Independent Medicare Agents (And Why It’s Mostly Good News)
Here’s the thing — for the last few years, every CMS update felt like another layer of restrictions on top of the last one. Tighter recordings, longer waiting periods, more disclaimers, more boxes to check. A lot of agents we talk to had basically accepted that the trend was only going one direction. So when […]
The Hidden Cost of “Free” CRMs for Insurance Agents (What Most FMOs Don’t Explain)
Why “Free” Technology Can Become Expensive Over Time A “free CRM” sounds like a no-brainer—especially for independent Medicare agents who are watching every dollar. But in practice, many free CRMs come with hidden trade-offs that show up later as your business grows. The cost is not always financial. More often, the real cost is paid […]
How to Recruit Other Agents Without Sounding Like a Pyramid Scheme
Let’s face it — the second you mention “recruiting” in the insurance world, people get nervous. We’ve all seen the shady DMs, the empty “leadership opportunities,” and the classic override pitches that feel like something out of a late-night infomercial. But here’s the truth: building a team doesn’t have to be weird. If you do […]
Why New Insurance Agents Struggle (And How to Get Ahead Faster)
Let’s be honest — a lot of new insurance agents don’t make it past year one. Not because they’re lazy. Not because they’re not smart. But because no one taught them what actually matters when you’re starting out. At TMS Insurance Brokerage, we talk to new agents every day. And the struggles? They’re almost always […]
Enhancing Medicare Sales: Expert Strategies for Success
Ever found yourself pondering, “Is selling Medicare lucrative?” Given the rising number of seniors and their growing healthcare needs, it’s no surprise that Medicare sales are on many insurance agents’ radars. Let’s break down the earning potential in this sector. The Expanding Medicare Landscape By the time we hit 2030, we’re looking at over 80 […]
Growing Your Own Medicare Insurance Agency: A Comprehensive Guide
Hey there, ambitious insurance enthusiasts! Raul Gonzalez here, and today we’re diving deep into the world of building and growing your very own Medicare insurance agency. If you’ve ever dreamt of leading a team and scaling your business, this one’s for you. Learn How to Grow Your Own Medicare Insurance Agency 1. Starting Small: Friends […]