Thinking about going solo before AEP… advice?

Hey everyone,

I’ve been doing Medicare insurance sales remotely with a company but I’m thinking of going solo as a contractor before AEP kicks in. Does anyone have any recommendations on companies that are hiring remote contractors?

Appreciate any advice, thanks!

I think it’s way too late to make that move before AEP. You’d need to get released from your current setup by the end of this week, and that’s not really possible.

Torrance said:
I think it’s way too late to make that move before AEP. You’d need to get released from your current setup by the end of this week, and that’s not really possible.

Thanks for the reply! Is this release you’re talking about from carriers like Aetna, Humana, Cigna? And do you know how long it usually takes to get released? Thanks again for your help.

@Zola
Yep, that’s right. The release process can take a few weeks, depending on your employer and their relationship with the upline. I don’t think there’s any chance it happens in under a week, though.

@Torrance
Got it, thank you for the info!

@Torrance
Just adding that some agencies can hold your appointments for up to 6 months, especially if you leave right before AEP. It’s kind of a retention strategy.

@Zola
Usually, it’s about 30-60 days to get released after approval.

Briar said:
@Zola
Usually, it’s about 30-60 days to get released after approval.

Thanks so much for the heads up!

It’s not too late necessarily. It depends on a few factors, like how many carriers you’re currently contracted with. If you’re contracted with too many, you might not have anything competitive left to sell. Some agents think they have to get released, but that’s only true if you’re LOA under an independent agency. If you’re direct with carriers, you can have multiple uplines as long as they’re with different carriers.

Take a look at how you’re contracted. Did you sign a private agreement with your agency, or are your contracts directly with carriers? If you’ve got direct contracts with carriers, you can sell while waiting for others to release you.

Lastly, if you’re aiming to get released, keep in mind some carriers don’t process releases during AEP. It’s always better to start the process early in the year. Hope this helps!

@Haru
I think you’re giving false hope here. It’s definitely too late for this change, especially before AEP. If they don’t get everything done in time, they could miss out on commissions.

Torrance said:
@Haru
I think you’re giving false hope here. It’s definitely too late for this change, especially before AEP. If they don’t get everything done in time, they could miss out on commissions.

We can debate all day, but it really depends on the situation. And no, I’m not with Select Quote. I work with many carriers and agents, and it varies from case to case. There are ways to get things done if it’s handled correctly.

  1. Contract Type (LOA or Broker): If you’re direct with carriers as a broker, you might not need to wait for a release.

  2. Private Contracts: If you’ve signed a contract with your agency, you might want to have a lawyer review your options.

  3. Carrier Blackouts: Most carriers don’t allow switching FMOs during AEP, but new contracts can still be made.

  4. Release Process: Brokers can file a self-release, and the process takes about 90-180 days. As long as you file the intent, you can continue working during the wait.

Bottom line: it depends on how you’re contracted, but it’s not impossible. The system’s been improved over time to make things smoother, so just be careful and know your options.

@Haru
I was referring to the person who posted being from Select Quote, not you.