Agent Survival Guide | Empowering Insurance Agents to Survive Today and Thrive Tomorrow

Unlock the secret of cross-selling insurance without coming across as salesy, scared, or awkward! Demetri Simos (Vice President of GTL) and Dawn Myers (VP of Sales & Marketing Delaware Valley Brokerage Service) join the Agent Survival Guide to talk about cross-selling insurance products. Listen to learn strategies you can implement in your own insurance business! Connect with Our Guests: Dawn Myers on LinkedIn Demetri Simos on LinkedIn Resources: 🛞Adding Spokes to Your Wheel ft. Robert Rothschild 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 🗣️How Storytelling Helps Agents Quickly Connect with Clients ft. Don Connelly 🌐Optimize Your Online Presence ft. Aaron Kassover 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 💻Ritter Insurance Marketing Events & Webinars Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Tired of juggling phone calls, planner pages, and double-booked appointments? It might be time to level up your scheduling strategy. Listen as we compare appointment schedulers that help agents save time, stay compliant, and make booking a little easier. Read the text version Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 3 Insurance Business Tools You Absolutely Can’t Live Without Best Practices for Writing an Email to Your Insurance Clients eBooks & Guides for Insurance Agents IntegrityCONNECT PlanEnroll What Are Agents Responsible for Under HIPAA? Where It All Begins: Obtaining Permission to Contact for Medicare Sales Appointment Schedulers: Acuity Google Workspace Microsoft Bookings OnceHub SimplyBook.Me References: Lurie, Matt. “20 Integrable Scheduling Tools for Small Business Systems.” Ruby, https://www.ruby.com/blog/20-of-the-best-small-business-appointment-scheduling-tools-and-apps/, Accessed 24 Feb. 2026. “Acuity Scheduling and HIPAA.” Help.acuityscheduling.com, Acuity Scheduling, https://help.acuityscheduling.com/hc/en-us/articles/16689567523597-Acuity-Scheduling-and-HIPAA. Accessed 24 Feb. 2026. “AgencyBloc Agency Management System AMS+” agencybloc.com, Agency Bloc, https://www.agencybloc.com/agency-management-system/, Accessed 24 Feb. 2026. “Google Workspace.” Workspace.google.com, Google Workspace, https://workspace.google.com/, Accessed 24 Feb. 2026. “Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) & Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act.” Learn.microsoft.com, Microsoft, https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/compliance/regulatory/offering-hipaa-hitech, Accessed 24 Feb. 2026. “HIPAA Compliance with Google Workspace and Cloud Identity.” Support.google.com, Google, https://support.google.com/a/answer/3407054. Accessed 24 Feb. 2026. “HIPAA for Professionals.” HHS.gov, Department of Health and Human Services, https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-professionals/index.html, Accessed 24 Feb. 2026. “Microsoft 365 for Business.” Microsoft.com, Microsoft, https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/business/no-teams-plans-and-pricing, Accessed 24 Feb. 2026. “ProducerMAX Online Scheduler.” Producermax.com, ProducerMAX, https://www.producermax.com/Online-Scheduler.html, Accessed 24 Feb. 2026. “Radius Appointment Scheduler.” Help.radiusbob.com, Radius, https://help.radiusbob.com/en/articles/5448715-appointment-scheduler, Accessed 24 Feb. 2026. “The Use of Technology and HIPAA Compliance.” Hipaajournal.com, The HIPAA Journal, 14 Jan. 2026, https://www.hipaajournal.com/the-use-of-technology-and-hipaa-compliance/. “What Is a HIPAA Business Associate Agreement?” Hipaajournal.com, The HIPAA Journal, 5 Jan. 2026, https://www.hipaajournal.com/hipaa-business-associate-agreement/. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Learn about the value of Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) and how to get started selling! Read the text version Learn how you can get started selling D-SNPs by calling Ritter Insurance Marketing today at 800-769-1847. Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 3 Easy Ways to Build Your Insurance Sales Territory 4 Characteristics of Agents Who Successfully Sell Special Needs Plans 4 Myths about Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) Build Your Brand with Community Involvement D-SNP Benefit Eligibility Client Letter D-SNP Checklist Help Medicare & Medicaid Clients Secure SNAP Benefits How Medicare Helps Your Clients Stay Healthy How to Check Medicare Extra Help Eligibility for Your Client How Selling Insurance Helps Give Back Midwest State D-SNP Disruption, Secure a Winning Strategy Rules for Hosting a Compliant Medicare Educational Event Should You Sell D-SNPs? SNPs: the Secret to Surviving Lock-In Stay Busy Outside of AEP With Special Enrollment Periods References: “CY 2024 Cost Plan Enrollment and Disenrollment Guidance.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/cy-2024-ma-enrollment-and-disenrollment-guidance.pdf, Accessed 27 Mar. 2026. “MA Enrollment and Disenrollment Guidance Appendices and Exhibits.” CMS.Gov, Centers of Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/cy-2026-ma-appendices-and-exhibits.pdf, “Medicare Managed Care Eligibility and Enrollment.” CMS.Gov, Centers of Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/medicare/enrollment-renewal/managed-care-eligibility-enrollment. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026. “Medicare Advantage Communication Requirements.” https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026. “Part D Communication Requirements.” https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-423/subpart-V. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026. “Special Enrollment Periods.” Medicare.gov, Medicare, https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/get-more-coverage/joining-a-plan/special-enrollment-periods. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026. “Medicaid State Overviews.” Medicaid.gov, Medicaid, www.medicaid.gov/state-overviews. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube Sarah on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Threads Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

The Friday Five for March 27th: Macbook Neo & WWDC26 Gas Buddy for Fuel Savings The Great Nee-Doh Shortage KFF State Health Facts Resource CMS Final Rule on Fax & Snail Mail Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Macbook Neo & WWDC26: “Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference returns the week of June 8.” Apple.com, Apple, 23 Mar. 2026, https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/03/apples-worldwide-developers-conference-returns-the-week-of-june-8/. “WWDC26” developer.apple.com, Apple Developer, https://developer.apple.com/, Accessed 24 Mar. 2026. Gas Buddy for Fuel Savings: Apple Store Google Play Official Website The Great Nee-Doh Shortage: Official Website KFF State Health Facts Resource: “Custom State Report Builder.” Kff.org, KFF, https://www.kff.org/state-health-facts/custom/, Accessed 24 Mar. 2026. “State Health Facts.” Kff.org, KFF, https://www.kff.org/state-health-facts/, Accessed 24 Mar. 2026. CMS Administrative Simplification Final Rule: “Administrative Simplification; Adoption of Standards for Health Care Claims Attachments Transactions and Electronic Signatures Final Rule CMS-0053-F.” cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 20 Mar. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/administrative-simplification-adoption-standards-health-care-claims-attachments-transactions. “Administrative Simplification; Adoption of Standards for Health Care Claims Attachments Transactions and Electronic Signatures Proposed Rule.” cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/03/24/2026-05676/administrative-simplification-adoption-of-standards-for-health-care-claims-attachments-transactions, Accessed 24 Mar. 2026. “CMS Rule Phases Out Fax Machines, Snail Mail to Save Taxpayers $781.98 Million a Year.” cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 20 Mar. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-rule-phases-out-fax-machines-snail-mail-save-taxpayers-781-98-million-year. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Did you know that burnout doesn’t always look like slowing down or quitting? Sometimes, it’s hiding behind fantastic production. Dan Spitale talks about how to identify burnout and switch our sales focus from the ceiling to a more sustainable target. Read the text version Get the Book - C.O.A.C.H.: Raising the Floor Follow Dan Spitale Online: Official Website: https://www.rtfperformancecoaching.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisingthefloor/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-spitale-region219/ Resources: 5 Tips for New Insurance Agents 5 Tips for Seasoned Insurance Agents Developing Power Habits ft. Dr. Noah St. John Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Preferred pharmacies can play a massive role in the affordability of a PDP or MAPD plan for your clients. Do you know what they are and how they can change the essential math for your clients? Read the text version Selling Medicare Part D The Complete Guide on How to Sell Prescription Drug Plans Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 8 Powerful Practices for Selling Prescription Drug Plans Building Client Loyalty: More than Just a Plan References: “Find an Aetna Medicare Network Pharmacy: Aetna Medicare.” Aetna, www.aetna.com/medicare/prescription-drugs/find-pharmacy.html#:~:text=Here%20are%20some%20of%20the,I%20request%20a%20prescription%20refill? Accessed 11 Feb. 2026. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube Sarah on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Threads Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

The Friday Five for March 20, 2026: Rueppel Recommends Audible launches Standard Plan Universal Health Services to Acquire Talkspace Manufacturer Participation in CMS 2028 Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Microsoft Announces Copilot Health Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Rueppel Recommends: The Death of Social Media and the Rise of Interest Media Minemyer, Paige. “The feds will overpay Medicare Advantage plans by $76B this year, MedPAC estimates.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 13 Mar 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/feds-will-overpay-medicare-advantage-plans-76b-year-medpac-estimates. Minemyer, Page. “Joint Economic Committee report: Medicare Advantage overpayments drive up Part B premiums.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 13 Mar 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/joint-economic-committee-report-medicare-advantage-overpayments-drive-part-b-premiums. “Medicare Payment Policy March 2026.” Medpac.Gov, Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, Mar. 2026, www.medpac.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Mar26_MedPAC_Report_To_Congress_SEC.pdf. “The Part B Premium PassThrough: Medicare Advantage Overpayments Inflate Premiums for All.” Jec.Senate.Gov, Join Economic Committee, 10 Mar. 2026, www.jec.senate.gov/public/vendor/_accounts/JEC-R/issue-briefs/The%20Part%20B%20Premium%20Pass-Through.pdf. Audible launches Standard Plan: “Audible Membership Plans & Pricing.” Audible.Com, Audible, www.audible.com/ep/memberbenefits. Accessed 17 Mar. 2026. Davies, Rowan. "Audible launches a cheaper audiobook tier that’s perfect for entry-level listeners as Spotify continues to hike prices — here’s what you get with the new $9 plan." Techradar.com, Tech Radar, 4 Mar. 2026, https://www.techradar.com/audio/audiobooks/audible-launches-a-cheaper-audiobook-tier-thats-perfect-for-entry-level-listeners-as-spotify-continues-to-hike-prices-heres-what-you-get-with-the-new-usd9-plan. Bonk, Lawrence. "Audible's new plan is $9 a month and still includes an audiobook." Engadget.com, Engadget, 3 Mar. 2026, https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/audibles-new-plan-is-9-a-month-and-still-includes-an-audiobook-credit-174641878.html. Mehrotra, Pranob. "Audible’s new Standard plan makes it easy to enjoy audiobooks for less." Digitaltrends.com, Digital Trends, 3 Mar. 2026, https://www.digitaltrends.com/movies/audibles-new-standard-plan-makes-it-easy-to-enjoy-audiobooks-for-less/. Universal Health Services to Acquire Talkspace: “Universal Health Services, Inc. to Acquire Talkspace, Inc.” Uhs.Com, Universal Health Services, Inc., 9 Mar. 2026, uhs.com/news/universal-health-services-inc-to-acquire-talkspace-inc/. Gliadkovskaya, Anastassia, and Dave Muoio. “Universal Health Services to Acquire Talkspace in $835M Deal to Build out Virtual Behavioral Health.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 9 Mar. 2026, www.fiercehealthcare.com/finance/uhs-acquire-talkspace-estimated-835-million-transaction. Manufacturer Participation in CMS 2028 Medicare Drug Price Negotiation CMS Announces 2028 Maximum Fair Prices for 15 New Medicare-Negotiated Drugs Under Part B & D “CMS Announces Manufacturer Participation in Third Cycle of Medicare Drug Price Negotiation.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 13 Mar. 2026, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/cms-announces-manufacturer-participation-third-cycle-medicare-drug-price-negotiation. CMS Announces Part D Savings & 2026 Maximum Fair Prices for First 10 Medicare-Negotiated Drugs CMS Announces Part D Savings & 2027 Maximum Fair Prices for 15 New Medicare-Negotiated Drugs Cubanski, Juliette, and Tricia Neuman. “Key Facts About Medicare Drug Price Negotiation.” Kff.Org, KFF, 11 Mar. 2026, www.kff.org/medicare/key-facts-about-medicare-drug-price-negotiation/. “Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program: Selected Drugs for Initial Price Applicability Year 2028.” Cms.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/factsheet-medicare-negotiation-selected-drug-list-ipay-2028.pdf. Accessed 18 Mar. 2026. Microsoft Announces Copilot Health: “Introducing Copilot Health.” Mcrosoft.Ai, Microsoft, 12 Mar. 2026, microsoft.ai/news/introducing-copilot-health/. Bonifield, Stevie. “Microsoft’s Copilot Health can connect to your medical records and wearables.” Theverge.com, The Verge, 12 Mar. 2026, https://www.theverge.com/tech/893594/microsoft-copilot-health-launch. Landi, Heather. “Microsoft unveils Copilot Health as an AI health companion for consumers.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 12 Mar. 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/ai-and-machine-learning/microsoft-unveils-copilot-health-ai-health-companion-consumers. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook

The Agent Survival Guide is discussing crosswalking in the ACA marketplace and how it can be a big deal for your clients. If you don’t know what that means or the affects it can have on coverage, you won’t want to miss this episode. Read the text version The Complete Guide to Selling Affordable Care Act Insurance Plans ACA 101: Selling Under-65 Health Insurance Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Everything Agents Need to Know About Selling in State-Based Marketplaces Everything You Need to Know About the ACA OEP FAQs About Selling On-Exchange & Off-Exchange Under-65 Plans How to Assist Clients with Marketplace Household Income Estimations Is the ACA Sticking Around Long Term? References: “§ 155.335 Annual Eligibility Redetermination.” Federal Register :: Request Access, www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/subtitle-A/subchapter-B/part-155/subpart-D/section-155.335. Accessed 10 Feb. 2026. Cohen, Robin A, et al. “Products - NHIS Early Release - Health Insurance - 2010.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 6 Nov. 2015, www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nhis/earlyrelease/insur201106.htm. “Low Cost Marketplace Health Care, Qualifying Income Levels.” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/lower-costs/. Accessed 10 Feb. 2026. World Population Review. “Uninsured People by State 2026.” World Population Review, 9 Feb. 2026, worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/uninsured-people-by-state. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube Sarah on LinkedIn, Instagram, Bluesky and Threads Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Don't let the fear of compliance keep you from following up with your Medicare clients. Find out how to follow up and stay within CMS guidelines for marketing and enrollment. Read the text version Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 4 Reasons Why Ritter Should Be Your FMO Insurance Agency 4 Ways to Keep Your Medicare Business Warm This Winter Building Client Loyalty: More than Just a Plan Keys to Client Retention: Face-to-Face Communication Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Do's and Don'ts The Complete Guide to Client Loyalty and Retention References: “Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Website.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026. “Medicare Advantage Communication Requirements.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-422/subpart-V. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026. “Medicare Part D Communication Requirements.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-423/subpart-V. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026. “Silver&Fit Website.” Silverandfit.com, Silver & Fit, https://www.silverandfit.com/. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026. “SilverSneakers Website.” Tools.silversneakers.com, Silver Sneakers, https://tools.silversneakers.com/. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026. “The 3-30-60-90 Day Conversation Guide.” Heinrichdev.com, Humana, https://heinrichdev.com/email/6715/Humana_3-30-60-90_Conversation_Guide.pdf. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

The Friday Five for March 13, 2026: Headline Quick Hits AI & Critical Thinking CMS Notification: 1.3 Million MBI Reassignments 2026 Medicare Part D Enrollment Stats Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Demonstration Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. AI & Critical Thinking: Peck, Emily. “AI overuse could spark “brain fry,” new research finds.” Axios.com, Axios, 6 Mar. 2026, https://www.axios.com/2026/03/06/ai-chatgpt-claude-jobs-brain-fry. Landymore, Frank. “AI Use at Work is Causing “Brain Fry,” Researchers Find, Especially Among High Performers.” Futurism.com, Futurism, 6 Mar. 2026, https://futurism.com/artificial-intelligence/ai-brain-fry. Zak, Lana. “Is AI productivity prompting burnout? Study finds new pattern of “AI brain fry.” Cbsnews.com, CBS, 8 Mar. 2026, https://www.cbsnews.com/news/is-ai-productivity-prompting-burnout-study-finds-new-pattern-of-ai-brain-fry/. Fakurian, Milad. “It’s tempting to offload your thinking to AI. Cognitive science shows why that’s a bad idea.” Theconversation.com, The Conversation, 9 Mar. 2026, https://theconversation.com/its-tempting-to-offload-your-thinking-to-ai-cognitive-science-shows-why-thats-a-bad-idea-276766. Bedard, Julie, et al. “When Using AI Leads to ‘Brain Fry.’” Hbr.Org, Harvard Business Review, 5 Mar. 2026, hbr.org/2026/03/when-using-ai-leads-to-brain-fry. CMS Plan Notification of 1.3 Million MBI Reassignments: 1.3 Million Medicare Beneficiary Identifiers to Be Reissued in March 2026 2026 Part D Enrollment States: “Analyzing Changes in Medicare Part D Enrollment for 2026.” Kff.org, KFF, 3 Mar. 2026, https://www.kff.org/medicare/analyzing-changes-in-medicare-part-d-enrollment-for-2026/. Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Demonstration: “Frequently Asked Questions Related to the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 3 Mar. 2026, https://hpms.cms.gov/app/ng/home/. Cubanski, Juliette. “What Medicare’s Temporary Program Covering GLP-1s for Obesity Means for Beneficiaries.” Kff.org, KFF, 9 Mar. 2026, https://www.kff.org/quick-take/what-medicares-temporary-program-covering-glp-1s-for-obesity-means-for-beneficiaries/. Headline Quick Hits: Malik, Aisha. “Macbook Neo, iPhone 17e, and everything else Apple announced this week.” Techcrunch.com, Tech Crunch, https://techcrunch.com/2026/03/04/everything-apple-announced-macbook-neo-iphone-17e-ipad-air/. Fried, Ina. “Exclusive: Meta hires duo behind Moltbook.” Axios.com, Axios, 10 Mar. 2026, https://www.axios.com/2026/03/10/meta-facebook-moltbook-agent-social-network. Resources: CMS Crush Initiative How the BALANCE Model Will Help Medicare Part D & Medicaid Enrollees Access GLP-1s Medicare and Medicaid to Start Covering GLP-1 Drugs for Beneficiaries Using a SWOT Analysis to Review Your Insurance Business Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Don’t miss the 2nd round of Medicare Part D negotiated drug prices. Get the details on the prescriptions and savings for Medicare beneficiaries in 2027. Read the text version Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: CMS Announces Part D Savings & 2026 Maximum Fair Prices for First 10 Medicare-Negotiated Drugs What the Inflation Reduction Act Means for Your Medicare & ACA Clients References: “CMS Delivers Savings for Seniors on 15 Major Drugs for Cancer and Chronic Disease.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 25 Nov. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-delivers-savings-seniors-15-major-drugs-cancer-chronic-disease. “Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program: Final Guidance, Implementation of Sections 1191 – 1198 of the Social Security Act for Initial Price Applicability Year 2028 and Manufacturer Effectuation of the Maximum Fair Price in 2026, 2027, and 2028.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 30 Sep. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/ipay-2028-final-guidance.pdf. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Do you know the strategies to meet your ambitious sales goals this OEP? We share the five tips that will have your clients trusting you with their insurance needs for years to come. Learn How to Survive OEP Join Ritter on HealthSherpa with Code FB05 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 6 Ways to Generate ACA Leads ACA 101: Selling Under-65 Health Insurance Agent Registration Building Client Loyalty: More than Just a Plan FAQs About Selling On-Exchange & Off-Exchange Under-65 Plans How Insurance Agents Can Learn About Their Social Media Audience How to Ask Your Current Clients for Referrals Keys to Client Retention: Digital Communication References: “All Topics.” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/topics/. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026. Johnson, Jon. “Decision Fatigue: Effects, Causes, Signs, and How to Combat It.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 7 July 2020, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/decision-fatigue. “Fast, Easy ACA Enrollment.” HealthSherpa, www.healthsherpa.com/agents/features. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026. “In-Person Assistance in the Health Insurance Marketplaces.” CMS.Gov, 19 Sept. 2025, www.cms.gov/marketplace/in-person-assisters/programs-procedures/in-person-assistance. “Internet, Broadband Fact Sheet.” Pew Research Center, Pew Research Center, 20 Nov. 2025, www.pewresearch.org/internet/fact-sheet/internet-broadband/. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube Sarah on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

The Friday Five for March 6, 2026: CMS Updates Deadline for GENEROUS CMS Makes Updates to Medicare.gov CMS Deferment of Minnesota Federal Medicaid Funding CMS DMEPOS Enrollment Moratorium CMS CRUSH Request for Information Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. CMS Updates Deadline for GENEROUS Participation: "CMS Announces New Drug Payment Model to Strengthen Medicaid and Better Serve Vulnerable Americans" cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 6 Nov. 2025, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-announces-new-drug-payment-model-strengthen-medicaid-better-serve-vulnerable-americans. "CMS to Lower Drug Costs and Improve Care by Extending Deadline for GENEROUS Model Application" cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2 Mar. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-lower-drug-costs-improve-care-extending-deadline-generous-model-application. "GENEROUS (GENErating cost Reductions fOr U.S. Medicaid) Model" cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/generous, Accessed 3 Mar. 2026. "GENErating cost Reductions fOr U.S. Medicaid (GENEROUS) Model" cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 27 Feb. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/files/generous-rfa.pdf. CMS Makes Updates to Medicare.gov: “Medicare.gov Enhanced Log In.” cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 3 Mar. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/medicare-gov-enhanced-log. “Official Website.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.medicare.gov/, Accessed 4 Mar. 2026. CMS CRUSH Initiative: Submit Your Comment “Request for Information (RFI) Related to Comprehensive Regulations To Uncover Suspicious Healthcare (CRUSH).” Federalregister.gov, Federal Register, 27 Feb. 2026, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/02/27/2026-03968/request-for-information-rfi-related-to-comprehensive-regulations-to-uncover-suspicious-healthcare#open-comment. “Trump Administration Prioritizes Affordability by Announcing Major Crackdown on Health Care Fraud.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 25 Feb. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/trump-administration-prioritizes-affordability-announcing-major-crackdown-health-care-fraud. Resources: 2026 MA Enrollment, a NIPR Scam & Spring Coffee Menus Instagram Basics for Insurance Agents The Benefits of Selling Medicare Special Needs Plans Using a SWOT Analysis to Review Your Insurance Business Follow Us on Social! Ritter Insurance Marketing: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X: https://x.com/RitterIM YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah J. Rueppel: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Review, organize, and plan for 2026 with a SWOT analysis! Discover what SWOT is and how it can help you create a plan for your insurance business. Read the text version Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Building a Business Plan Knight School Module Q1 ACA Sales Calendar Q1 Medicare Sales Planner Things to Think About Post-AEP Things to Think About Post-OEP References: Dunne, Kevin. “Swot Analysis.” Mindtools.com, Mindtools, 2025 Aug. 6, https://www.mindtools.com/amtbj63/swot-analysis/. “SWOT Analysis.” Eda.Gov, U.S. Economic Development Administration, www.eda.gov/resources/comprehensive-economic-development-strategy/content/swot-analysis. Accessed 5 Feb. 2026. Raeburn, Alicia. “SWOT analysis: Examples and templates.” Asana.com, Asana, 2026 Jan. 2, https://asana.com/resources/swot-analysis. Kenton, Will. “SWOT: What Is It, How It Works, and How to Perform an Analysis.” Edited by Cierra Murphy and Vikki Velasquez, Investopedia.Com, Investopedia, 19 Dec. 2025, www.investopedia.com/terms/s/swot.asp. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube Sarah on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Sarah loves Instagram, but does that mean it’s a viable marketing tool for insurance agents? Listen as she evaluates the ‘gram for agent use and learn how you can do the same. Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 2016 vs. 2026: The Insurance Edition Field Notes on Digital Marketing Resources Optimize Your Online Presence ft. Aaron Kassover Sarah’s Instagram Profile Social Media Marketing for Insurance Agents References: “About Professional Accounts on Instagram.” Help.Instagram.Com, Instagram, help.instagram.com/138925576505882/. Accessed 4 Feb. 2025 Gottfried, Jeffrey, and Eugenie Park. “Americans’ Social Media Use 2025.” Pewresearch.Org, Pew Research Center, 20 Nov. 2025, www.pewresearch.org/internet/2025/11/20/americans-social-media-use-2025/. “Convert an Instagram Personal Profile to a Business Profile .” Help.Hootsuite.Com, Hootsuite, 21 Oct. 2025, help.hootsuite.com/hc/en-us/articles/1260804251950-Convert-an-Instagram-Personal-profile-to-a-Business-profile. “How to Set up a Business Account on Instagram.” Help.Instagram.Com, Instagram, help.instagram.com/502981923235522/. Accessed 4 Feb. 2025. “How to Set up a Creator Account on Instagram.” Help.Instagram.Com, Instagram, help.instagram.com/2358103564437429/. Accessed 4 Feb. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube Sarah on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

The Friday Five for February 27, 2026: [01:02] ☕Starbucks Spring 2026 Menu [02:45] 🧋Dunkin’ Spring 2026 Menu [05:25] 📺 Instagram for TV [08:22] ⚠️ NIPR Phishing Alert [10:59] 📊 2026 MA Enrollment Stats Register for Craig Ritter’s State of the Senior Market Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Starbucks Spring 2026 Menu: “Starbucks previews 2026 spring menu with new chai, ube and Energy Refreshers drinks.” About.starbucks.com, Starbucks, 26 Jan. 2026, https://about.starbucks.com/stories/2026/starbucks-previews-2026-spring-menu-with-new-chai-coconut-and-lavender-drinks/. Morea, Steven. “Starbucks’ Spring 2026 Menu Is Here & Fans Have Thoughts.” Delish.com, Delish, 29 Jan. 2026, https://www.delish.com/food-news/a70176840/starbucks-spring-2026-menu/. Dunkin’ Spring 2026 Menu: Tenreyo, Tatiana. “Dunkin’s Rumored 18-Item Spring Menu Could Kick Off a Full Banana Boom.” Sporked.com, Sporked, 4 Feb. 2026, https://sporked.com/article/dunkin-spring-2026-menu/. Baker, Nicolette. “Dunkin’s Spring Menu Is Going Bananas.” Foodandwine.com, Food & Wine, 10 Feb. 2026, https://www.foodandwine.com/dunkin-spring-menu-leak-2026-11902405. Umholtz, Katelyn. “Yes, it’s true: Dunkin’ is selling iced coffee in 48-ounce buckets.” Boston.com, Boston.com, 24, Feb. 2026, https://www.boston.com/food/food-news/2026/02/24/dunkin-iced-coffee-buckets/. Instagram for TV: “Introducing Instagram for TV.” About.instagram.com, Instagram, 16 Dec. 2025, https://about.instagram.com/blog/announcements/instagram-tv-app. Malik, Aisha. “Instagram’s TV app is launching on Google TV devices.” Techcrunch.com, TechCrunch, 24 Feb. 2026, https://techcrunch.com/2026/02/24/instagrams-tv-app-is-launching-on-google-tv-devices/. NIPR Phishing Alert: Content Library: Identifying Scams and How to Protect Yourself* How to Keep Clients Safe From Insurance Fraud "National Insurance Professional Registry." Nipr.com, NIPR, https://nipr.com/help, Accessed 25 Feb. 2026. Unsure about a NIPR email? Verify first by emailing: [email protected] 2026 MA Enrollment Stats: Fuglesten Biniek, Jeannie et. al. "Medicare Advantage Enrollment Grew by About 1 Million People, Mainly Due to Special Needs Plans." KFF.org, KFF, 23 Feb. 2026, https://www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-advantage-enrollment-grew-by-about-1-million-people-mainly-due-to-special-needs-plans/. “Monthly Contract and Enrollment Summary Report.” CMS.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/data-research/statistics-trends-and-reports/medicare-advantagepart-d-contract-and-enrollment-data/monthly-contract-and-enrollment-summary-report. Accessed 25 Feb. 2026. More Episodes You’ll Love: CMS 2027 MA & Part D Advance Notice State of the Senior Market 2026 The Insurance Agent’s Quick Guide to Med Supp Birthday Rule States Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency. *Requires RitterIM.com login. Not registered? No problem! Registering is FREE and takes less than a minute.

After the grind of Annual Enrollment, the reality of lock-in can be a little defeating, even for the most seasoned agents. If you’ve been feeling that way, listen to learn more about Special Needs Plans and their place in your post-AEP strategy. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 2026 D-SNP Market Snapshot 4 Myths About Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) Sales Carriers Partnered with Ritter 5 Ways to Generate Medicare Leads Diversify Your Insurance Portfolio & Reap Real Rewards Do's and Don'ts of Medicare Compliance Stay Busy Outside of AEP With Special Enrollment Periods The Beginner's Guide to D-SNPs The Complete Guide on How to Sell D-SNPs The Guide to Prospecting and Selling C-SNPS Things to Think About Post-AEP References: “U.S. Enrollment and Spending for Dual-Eligible Individuals.” KFF.org, KFF, https://www.kff.org/interactive/state-profiles-for-dual-eligible-individuals/united-states/enrollment-and-spending-for-dual-eligible-individuals/, Accessed 26 Jan. 2026. “Your 101 Guide to Dual Eligibility in 2025.” Spark Advisors, Spark Advisors, 28 May 2025, www.sparkadvisors.com/resource/your-101-guide-to-dual-eligibility-in-2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

The Friday Five for February 20, 2026: TikTok USDS Update Apple Announces Video Podcasts Tide Launches Evo Detergent The Burden of Prior Authorization State of the Senior Market 2026 Register to Attend Craig Ritter’s 2026 State of the Senior Market! Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. TikTok Making Its Way Back to the Top? “Top Apps.” Appfigures.com, Appfigures, https://appfigures.com/top-apps/ios-app-store/united-states/iphone/top-overall. Accessed 18, Feb. 2026. “Top Apps.” Appfigures.com, Appfigures, https://appfigures.com/top-apps/google-play/united-states/top-apps. Accessed 18, Feb. 2026. "Top Photo & Video Apps." Appfigures.com, Appfigures, https://appfigures.com/top-apps/ios-app-store/united-states/iphone/photo-and-video. Accessed 18, Feb. 2026. "Top Social Apps." Appfigures.com, Appfigures, https://appfigures.com/top-apps/google-play/united-states/social. Accessed 18, Feb. 2026. Apple Announces Video Capabilities for Podcasts App: “Apple introduces a new video podcast experience on Apple Podcast.” Apple.com, Apple, 16 Feb. 2026, https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/02/apple-introduces-a-new-video-podcast-experience-on-apple-podcasts/. Peters, Jay. “Apple’s Podcasts app will let you ‘seamlessly’ switch between audio and video shows.” Theverge.com, The Verge, 16 Feb. 2026, https://www.theverge.com/tech/879749/apple-podcasts-video-swap-hls-live-streaming. Vallese, Zach. “Apple takes on YouTube and Spotify with new video podcasting push.” Cnbc.com, CNBC, 16 Feb. 2026, https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/16/apple-takes-on-youtube-and-spotify-with-new-video-podcasting-push.html. The Burden of Prior Authorization: Cottrill, Alex, et al. “Examining the Potential Impact of Medicare’s New WISeR Model.” KFF.Org, KFF, 10 Feb. 2026, www.kff.org/medicare/examining-the-potential-impact-of-medicares-new-wiser-model/. Kirzinger, Ashley, et al. “KFF Health Tracking Poll: Prior Authorizations Rank as Public’s Biggest Burden When Getting Health Care.” KFF.Org, KFF, 2 Feb. 2026, https://www.kff.org/public-opinion/kff-health-tracking-poll-prior-authorizations-rank-as-publics-biggest-burden-when-getting-health-care/. Tide Launches Evo Detergent Tiles: Clancy, Heather. “P&G goes wide with a waterless, plastic-free Tide.” Trellis.net, Trellis, 17 Feb. 2026, https://trellis.net/article/pg-water-plastic-out-of-tide-detergent/. Tyko, Kelly. “Tide makes its biggest laundry detergent change since pods.” Axios.com, Axios, 17 Feb. 2026, https://www.axios.com/2026/02/17/tide-evo-tiles-dry-laundry-detergent-launch. “Tide Unveils World-First Laundry Breakthrough: Introduction Tide evo, the Fiber-Detergent Tile.” Us.pg.com, Proctor & Gamble, 17 Feb. 2026, https://us.pg.com/newsroom/news-releases/Tide-Unveils-World-First-Laundry-Breakthrough-Introducing-Tide-evo-the-Fiber-Detergent-Tile/. Recent Episodes of the Agent Survival Guide Podcast: 5 Takeaways from the CMS 2027 Marketplace Proposed Rule 2016 vs. 2026: The Insurance Edition CMS 2027 MA & Part D Advance Notice Q1 ACA Sales Calendar Q1 Medicare Sales Planner Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Have a client that wants to switch Med Supp plans? If they live in a Med Supp birthday rule state, it might be easier than you think! Learn more about the states and their rules in this ASG Podcast episode. Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 8 Strategies to Prevent Rapid Disenrollments from Medicare Plans 2016 vs. 2026: The Insurance Edition A Comprehensive Guide to Medicare Supplement Underwriting CMS 2027 MA & Part D Advance Notice Medicare Advantage Trial Rights Explained for Agents References: “10 Things You Should Know About Buying a Medigap policy in Utah.” Insurance.utah.gov, Utah Insurance Department, https://insurance.utah.gov/consumers/health-insurance/medicare/. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. “AB 250 Medicare Supplement “Birthday Rule” Nevada.” Doi.nv.gov, Nevada Department of Insurance, https://doi.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/doi.nv.gov/Content/Insurers/Life_and_Health/AB%20250%20Guidance.pdf. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. “California Med Supp Birthday Rule.” Insurance.ca.gov, California Department of Insurance, https://www.insurance.ca.gov/0150-seniors/0100alerts/SA-01-10B.cfm. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. “Can I change my Medigap policy?” Medicare.gov, Medicare, https://www.medicare.gov/health-drug-plans/medigap/ready-to-buy/change-policies. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. “Compare Medigap Plan Benefits.” Medicare.gov, Medicare, https://www.medicare.gov/health-drug-plans/medigap/basics/compare-plan-benefits. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. “Delaware Med Supp Birthday Rule.” Legis.deleware.gov, Delaware General Assembly, https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail/141935. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. “Expert: More Medicare plan options available to seniors.” Wyomingnews.com, Wyoming Tribune Eagle, 13 Aug. 2025, https://www.wyomingnews.com/news/local_news/expert-more-medicare-plan-options-available-to-seniors/article_da163542-25c0-49c9-8683-a8e81332c1d7.html. “Idaho Recent Changes to Medicare Supplement Law and Rules.” Doi.idaho.gov, Idaho Department of Insurance, https://doi.idaho.gov/shiba/new-to-medicare/medicare-supplement-medigap/recent-changes-to-medicare-supplement-law-and-rules/. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. Haass, David. “Illinois Birthday Rule for Medicare Supplement Plans.” Medicarefaq.com, Medicare FAQ, https://www.medicarefaq.com/blog/illinois-birthday-rule/. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. “Indiana Med Supp Birthday Rule.” Indianahousedemocrats.org, Indiana House Democratic Caucus, https://www.indianahousedemocrats.org/news/dant-chesser-bill-to-create-options-for-medicare-supplement-insurance-heads-to-the-senate. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. “Kentucky Medicare Supplement Update Consumer Alert.” Insurance.ky.gov, Kentucky Department of Insurance, https://insurance.ky.gov/ppc/Documents/2024.01.24%20Medicare%20Supplement%20Enrollment%20Changes.pdf. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. “Maryland Law Allows for an Additional Open Enrollment Period for Medicare Supplement Policies.” Insurance.maryland.gov, Maryland Insurance Administration, https://insurance.maryland.gov/Consumer/Documents/publications/ConsumerAdvisory-Maryland-law-allows-for-an-additional-Open-Enrollment-Period-for-Medicare-Supplement-Policies.pdf. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. “Medicare Plan G – Part G.” boomerbenefits.com, Boomer Benefits, https://boomerbenefits.com/medicare-supplemental-insurance/medicare-supplement-plans/medicare-plan-g/. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. “Medigap Birthday Rule States.” Boomerbenefits.com, Boomer Benefits, https://boomerbenefits.com/which-states-have-a-medigap-birthday-rule/. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026 “Medigap Open Enrollment Period.” Medicare.gov, Medicare, https://www.medicare.gov/health-drug-plans/medigap/ready-to-buy. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. LaPick, Micheal. “Medicare Birthday Rules by State (2025): Switch Without Underwriting.” Medicareguide.com, Medicare Guide, 30 Sep. 2025, https://medicareguide.com/medigap-birthday-rules-2025. “Oklahoma New Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment FAQs.” Oid.ok.gov, Oklahoma Insurance Department, https://www.oid.ok.gov/medicare-supplement-open-enrollment-faqs/. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. Llopis, Bere. “Rhode Island Medigap AEP Update: Switch Your Plan Without Health Questions.” Senior65.com, Senior 65, 02 Dec. 2025, https://www.senior65.com/medicare/article/rhode-island-medigap-aep. Feke, Tanya, M.D. “The ‘birthday rule’: a gift to Medigap enrollees?” medicareresources.org, Medicare Resources, https://www.medicareresources.org/medicare-eligibility-and-enrollment/the-birthday-rule-a-gift-to-medigap-enrollees/. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026. “Virginia’s Medigap ‘Birthday Rule’ Annual Open Enrollment.” Scc.virginia.gov, State Corporation Commission, https://www.scc.virginia.gov/media/sccvirginiagov-home/consumer-home/insurance/life-amp-health/senior-resources/medigap-birthday-rule.pdf. Accessed 2 Feb. 202

Stay organized with a planner created just for insurance agents selling Medicare! We highlighting what to focus on during the first quarter of the year. Read the text version Download your copy of the Medicare Sales Planner! Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: Do’s and Don’ts of Medicare Compliance Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Do’s and Don’ts The Complete Guide to Client Loyalty and Retention References: “2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Update Fact Sheet At-a-Glance.” Professional.Heart.Org, American Heart Association, professional.heart.org/en/-/media/PHD-Files-2/Science-News/2/2026-Heart-and-Stroke-Stat-Update/At-A-Glance/2026-Stats-Update-Fact-Sheet-At-A-Glance-Statistics_final.pdf. Accessed 12 Feb. 2026. “35+ Latest Business Plan Statistics to Boost Success.” Bizplanr.ai, Bizplanr, 13 Jun. 2025, https://bizplanr.ai/blog/business-plan-statistics. “Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs).” CMS.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/medicare/enrollment-renewal/special-needs-plans/dual-eligible. Accessed 12 Feb. 2026. Follow Us on Social!; Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

A busy insurance agent can easily become overwhelmed by the number of tasks to complete. But the good news is that you don’t have to rush to finish them all at once! Listen to learn what agents selling ACA plans should focus on during the first quarter of the year. Read the text version Download your copy of the Busy ACA Agent’s Sales Calendar! 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 6 Ways to Generate ACA Leads ACA 101: Selling Under-65 Health Insurance Community Engagement & ACA Marketing Ideas for Agents How an ICHRA Partnership Can Support ACA Sales How Insurance Agents Can Set SMART Goals to Succeed ICHRA vs. QSEHRA vs. Group Health Plans: Sales Opportunities for Insurance Agents The ICHRA Opportunity for Agents ft. Lisa Marzolino & Danica Stover The Ultimate Agent Resource List Pt. 3: Staying Organized Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

This week, CMS released their 2027 Marketplace Proposed Rule. Join us as we pull out 5 takeaways insurance agents should know about. Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 2016 vs. 2026: The Insurance Edition 2026 ACA Enrollment Update 5 Tips for New Insurance Agents 5 Tips for Seasoned Insurance Agents CMS 2027 MA & Part D Advance Notice What are the CMS Medicare Gift Rules? References: “CMS Model Consent Form for Marketplace Agents, Brokers, Web-brokers, and Agencies.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 9 Feb. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/marketplace/agents-brokers/files/cms-model-consent-form-marketplace-agents-brokers.pdf. “CMS Proposes Regulations to Lower Health Care Costs, Expand Consumer Choice, and Protect Taxpayers.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 9 Feb. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-proposes-regulations-lower-health-care-costs-expand-consumer-choice-protect-taxpayers. “HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027 Proposed Rule.” CMS.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 9 Feb. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/hhs-notice-benefit-payment-parameters-2027-proposed-rule. “Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027; and Basic Health Program.” Federalregister.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 9 Feb. 2026, www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2026-02769/patient-protection-and-affordable-care-act-benefit-and-payment-parameters-for-2027-and-basic-health. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Can your clients afford hybrid long-term care insurance? It might be more affordable than they think. Learn more about the ways hybrid or linked-benefit LTCi can be funded in this episode. Read the text version Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 4 Out-of-the-Box Long-Term Care Insurance Solutions 5 Tips for New Insurance Agents 5 Tips for Seasoned Insurance Agents Annuities vs. 401(k)s: Examining Differences That Can Matter to Clients Selling Long-Term Care Insurance What You Need to Know About 1035 Exchanges References: “Qualified vs. nonqualified annuities explained.” Thrivent.com, Thrivent, 19 Dec. 2025, https://www.thrivent.com/insights/annuities/qualified-vs-nonqualified-annuities-explained. Plaehn, Tim. “What is Tax-Qualified Money?” budgeting.thenest.com, The Nest, https://budgeting.thenest.com/can-deferred-compensation-rolled-401k-22900.html. Accessed 15 Jan. 2025. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

When the unexpected happens in your business, it’s important to have all your bases covered. In this episode learn what Errors and Omissions Insurance is and how it could save your business thousands in legal costs. Read the text version 💵Save Up to 50% On E&O Insurance 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 5 Tips for New Insurance Agents 4 Reasons Why Ritter Insurance Marketing Should Be Your FMO Insurance Agency Developing Power Habits ft. Dr. Noah St. John IntegrityCONNECT The Benefits of Joining a Top Insurance FMO Tips for Working With a Difficult Client References: Metz, Jason. “Best Small Business Insurance.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 24 Dec. 2025, https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business-insurance/best-small-business-insurance/. Bonner, Marianne. “Errors and Omissions Insurance: What It Is, How It Works, and Who Needs It.” Investopedia, Investopedia, https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/errors-omissions-insurance.asp. Accessed 5 Jan. 2026. Rubin, Paul H. “More Money into Bad Suits - Nytimes.Com.” The New York Times, https://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2010/11/15/investing-in-someone-elses-lawsuit/more-money-into-bad-suits. Accessed 5 Jan. 2026. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

The Friday Five for February 6, 2026: IntegrityCONNECT Question Educational Resources for Insurance Agents Government Funding Bill Update Luffu AI for Family Caregivers ACA Enrollment Comparison Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Educational Resources for Insurance Agents: Content Library eBooks & Guides List of Ritter Events & Webinars Government Funding Bill Update: Freking, Kevin. “House Passes Bill on Government Funding to End Partial Shutdown.” PBS, Public Broadcasting Service, 3 Feb. 2026, www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/watch-live-house-holds-key-procedural-vote-on-government-funding-to-end-partial-shutdown. “Senate passes government spending package, including healthcare funding.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 31 Jan. 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/providers/partial-government-shutdown-looms-threatening-stall-health-funding-package-telehealth. Luffu AI for Family Caregivers: “Fitbit founders launch AI platform to help families monitor their health.” Technrunch.com, TechCrunch, 3 Feb. 2026, https://techcrunch.com/2026/02/03/fitbit-founders-launch-ai-platform-to-help-families-monitor-their-health/. “Fitbit’s founders launch a new platform for monitoring your entire family’s health.” Theverge.com, The Verge, 3 Feb. 2026, https://www.theverge.com/tech/872963/fitbit-james-park-eric-friedman-luffu-caregivers-family-health-app. “Fitbit’s founders push AI into family caregiving.” Axios.com, Axios, 3 Feb. 2026, https://www.axios.com/2026/02/03/fitbit-founders-ai-family-caregiving. “From the Founders of Fitbit: Introducing Luffu, Your Guardian for Family Health & Safety.” PRNewswire.com, PR Newswire, 3 Feb. 2026, https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/from-the-founders-of-fitbit-introducing-luffu-your-guardian-for-family-health--safety-302676975.html. “Luffu Official Website” luffu.com, Luffu, https://www.luffu.com/, Accessed 3 Feb. 2026. ACA Enrollment Comparison: “Marketplace 2026 Open Enrollment Period Report: National Snapshot.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 28 Jan. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/marketplace-2026-open-enrollment-period-report-national-snapshot-2. Related ASG Podcast Episodes: 5 Tips for New Insurance Agents 2016 vs. 2026: The Insurance Edition CMS 2027 MA & Part D Advance Notice Content Library: Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage ft. Jeff Snyder Introducing a Content Marketing Solution for Insurance Agents IntegrityCONNECT FAQs Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube Sarah on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Learn about ACA subsidies and their requirements to help your clients save on health insurance! Read the text version 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 5 Myths About Selling ACA Health Insurance Plans How the ACA Subsidy Cliff Impacts Clients Shopping for Marketplace Coverage How to Assist Clients with Marketplace Household Income Estimations How to Help Clients Navigate ACA Marketplace Subsides & Taxes What Are the ACA Marketplace Alternatives for Health Insurance? References: “Federal Poverty Level (FPL) - Glossary.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/federal-poverty-level-fpl/. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026. Norris, Lousie. “IRS Regulations Fix the ACA’s ‘family Glitch’ as of 2023.” Healthinsurance.Org, healthinsurance.org, 2 Sept. 2025, www.healthinsurance.org/obamacare/irs-regulations-fix-the-acas-family-glitch-as-of-2023/. “Medicaid Expansion & What It Means for You.” HealthCare.Gov, https://www.healthcare.gov/medicaid-chip/medicaid-expansion-and-you/. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026. “Poverty Guidelines.” ASPE, https://www.aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/poverty-guidelines. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026. Yearly Guidelines & Thresholds, Updated February 2023 Reference Chart, https://www.healthreformbeyondthebasics.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/REFERENCE_YearlyGuidelines_CY2025.pdf. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Delve into the nuance of annuities as we compare fixed, indexed, and fixed indexed annuities. Learn more about each type, including how to help your clients choose between the three. Read the text version Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 5 Tips for New Insurance Agents 5 Tips for Seasoned Insurance Agents Why Gen Z is a Good Fit For Selling Insurance References: “28 Retirement Statistics You Should Know for 2025.” HarborLifeSettlements.com, HarborLife Settlements, 29 Apr. 2025, https://www.harborlifesettlements.com/retirement-statistics/. “Annuities Overview.” Finra.org, FINRA, https://www.finra.org/investors/investing/investment-products/annuities. Accessed 15 Jan. 2026. Schaaf, Janet. “Guide to the Average Savings in America by Age.” SoFi.Com, SoFi, 12 Dec. 2025, www.sofi.com/learn/content/average-savings-by-age. Tancock, Kat. “How Much You Should Save for Retirement at Every Age” synchrony.com, Synchrony, 29 Jul. 2025, https://www.synchrony.com/blog/bank/retirement-savings-goals-at-every-age. Baluch, Anna. “How Much Does an Annuity Cost?” Edited by Lamia Chowdhury and John Stevenson, Annuity.Org, Annuity.org, 12 Dec. 2025, www.annuity.org/annuities/fees-and-commissions/. “S&P 500 Index.” Google.Com, Google Finance, www.google.com/finance/beta/quote/.INX:INDEXSP. Accessed 15 Jan. 2026. “Single premium immediate annuity (SPIA): Pros, cons & taxes.” Thrivent.com, Thrivent, 26 Aug. 2025, https://www.thrivent.com/insights/annuities/what-is-a-spia. “Types of fixed deferred annuities: Which is right for you?” thrivent.com, Thrivent, 12 Jan. 2026, https://www.thrivent.com/insights/annuities/types-of-fixed-deferred-annuities-which-is-right-for-you. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

The Friday Five for January 30, 2026 Meta Announces Premium Subscriptions TikTok USDS Troubles & New Competitors FY 2026 Appropriations Bills 2025 Tax Season & H.R. 7006 CMS 2027 MA and Part D Advance Notice Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Meta Announces Premium Subscriptions: Weatherbed, Jess. "Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp will test premium subscriptions." theverge.com, The Verge, 27 Jan. 2026, https://www.theverge.com/news/868439/meta-premium-subscription-ai-facebook-instagram-whatsapp. "Meta Confirms Testing of Premium Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp Subscriptions." cnet.com, CNET, 27 Jan. 2026, https://www.cnet.com/news/social-media/meta-confirms-testing-of-premium-instagram-facebook-and-whatsapp-subscriptions/. "Meta to test premium subscriptions on Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp." TechCrunch.com, TechCrunch, 26 Jan. 2026, https://techcrunch.com/2026/01/26/meta-to-test-premium-subscriptions-on-instagram-facebook-and-whatsapp/. TikTok USDS Troubles & New Competitors: Sato, Kiichiro, "5 things to know about the TikTok deal." Politico.com, Politico, 22 Jan. 2026, https://www.politico.com/news/2026/01/22/5-things-to-know-about-the-tiktok-deal-00743316. "Announcement from the new TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC." newsroom.tiktok.com, TikTok, 22 Jan. 2026, https://newsroom.tiktok.com/announcement-from-the-new-tiktok-usds-joint-venture-llc. Bell, Karissa. "A TikTok US power outage caused a 'cascading systems failure' leading to multiple bugs." Engadget.com, Engadget, 27 Jan. 2026, https://www.engadget.com/social-media/a-tiktok-us-power-outage-caused-a-cascading-systems-failure-leading-to-multiple-bugs-173426490.html. "Here's what you should know about the US TikTok deal." TechCrunch.com, TechCrunch, 23, Jan 2026, https://techcrunch.com/2026/01/23/heres-whats-you-should-know-about-the-us-tiktok-deal. Bell, Karissa. "People are uninstalling TikTok and downloading an indie competitor." Engadget.com, Engadget, 26 Jan. 2026, https://www.engadget.com/social-media/people-are-uninstalling-tiktok-and-downloading-an-indie-competitor-233345222.html. Conner, Adam. "The TikTok Deal Leaves Many Questions Unanswered." americanprogress.org, Center for American Progress, 23 Jan 2026, https://www.americanprogress.org/article/the-tiktok-deal-leaves-many-questions-unanswered/. Scanlon, Krystal. "TikTok’s confirmed U.S. deal still leaves unanswered questions." digiday.com, Digiday, 26, Jan. 2026, https://digiday.com/marketing/tiktoks-confirmed-u-s-deal-still-leaves-unanswered-questions/. "TikTok finalizes deal to form new American entity." NPR.org, NPR, 22 Jan. 2026, https://www.npr.org/2026/01/22/nx-s1-5685456/tiktok-finalizes-deal-to-form-new-american-entity. Jacobs, Skye. "TikTok quietly expands location tracking and ad targeting for US users." Techspot.com, TechSpot, 26 Jan. 2026, https://www.techspot.com/news/111061-tiktok-quietly-expands-ad-targeting-location-tracking-us.html. “Top Apps.” Appfigures.com, Appfigures, https://appfigures.com/top-apps/ios-app-store/united-states/iphone/top-overall, Accessed 28, Jan. 2026. Wheatman Hill, Laura. "We Should Just Let TikTok Die." Slate.com, Slate, 27 Jan 2026, https://slate.com/technology/2026/01/tiktok-outage-oracle-ice-shooting.html. FY 2026 Appropriations Bills: “Appropriations Status Table: FY2026.” Congress.Gov, United States Congress, 23 Jan. 2026, www.congress.gov/crs-appropriations-status-table. "Assessing FY 2026 Appropriations." crfb.org, Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, 15 Jan. 2026, https://www.crfb.org/blogs/assessing-fy-2026-appropriations. "H.R.7148 - 119th Congress (2025-2026): Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026." Congress.Gov, United States Congress, 21 Jan. 2026, https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/7148. "House Votes 341-88 for 'Minibus' Spending Package." thinkadvisor.com, Think Advisor, 22 Jan. 2026, https://www.thinkadvisor.com/2026/01/22/house-votes-341-88-for-minibus-spending-package/. "Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026." appropriations.house.gov, U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee, https://appropriations.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/republicans-appropriations.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/final-fy26-lhhs-minibus-4-summary.pdf. Accessed 26 Jan. 2026. "Partial government shutdown looms, threatening to stall health funding package, telehealth extensions." Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 26, Jan. 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/providers/sick-fighting-insurers-hospitals-offer-their-own-medicare-advantage-plans. "U.S. House passes final minibus funding package." naco.org, National Association of Counties, 22 Jan. 2026, https://www.naco.org/news/us-

Get the details on IntegrityCONNECT! Join Sarah and Tina for a deep dive into frequently asked agent questions. Read the text version Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: FAQs About the Medicare Call Recording Requirements How Health Insurance Agents Can Stay TCPA Compliant Meet Your Sales Team Integrity Official Site Integrity Support Email Ritter Events, Training, & Webinar List Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Is 2026 really the new 2016? Join Sarah as she talks about this internet trend, takes the time machine back to 2016 to compare data, and explains how agents can get in on the fun while it lasts! Get Connected: 🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You! 💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to [email protected] or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Resources: 5 Tips for New Insurance Agents 5 Tips for Seasoned Insurance Agents 2026 ACA Enrollment Snapshot #2 How the 2027 Medicare Advantage & Part D Proposed Rule Could Impact Insurance Agents & Beneficiaries Ritter Can Help You Stay in Touch with Your Clients What Are CMS' Part B Rebatable Drugs for 2026? References: “2016 F, G & J Deductible Announcements.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/medicare/health-plans/medigap/downloads/cy_2016_fandj_deductible_amount_for_medigap_high_deductible_options.pdf. Accessed 21 Jan. 2026. “2016 K & L Out-of-Pocket Limits Announcements.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/medicare/health-plans/medigap/downloads/cy_2016_oop_limits_-_medigap_plans_k_and_l.pdf. Accessed 21 Jan. 2026. "2016 Medicare Parts A & B Premiums and Deductibles Announced." CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2016-medicare-parts-b-premiums-and-deductibles-announced. Accessed 21 Jan. 2026. “2026 F, G & J Deductible Announcements.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/medigap/f-g-j-deductible-announcements. Accessed 21 Jan. 2026. “2026 K & L Out-of-Pocket Limits Announcements.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/medigap/k-l-out-of-pocket-limits-announcements. Accessed 21 Jan. 2026. “Marketplace 2026 Open Enrollment Period Report: National Snapshot.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 12 Jan. 2026, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/marketplace-2026-open-enrollment-period-report-national-snapshot-0. “Marketplace Enrollment, 2014-2025: KFF State Health Facts.” KFF.Org, KFF, www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/state-indicator/marketplace-enrollment/?currentTimeframe=0&sortModel=%7B%22colId%22%3A%22Location%22%2C%22sort%22%3A%22asc%22%7D. Accessed 21 Jan. 2026. "Medicare Advantage 2026 Spotlight: A First Look at Plan Offerings." CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 9 Dec. 2025, https://www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-advantage-2026-spotlight-a-first-look-at-plan-offerings/. "Original Medicare Costs in 2016." medicarerights.org, Medicare Rights Center, https://www.medicarerights.org/fliers/Original-Medicare/Original-Medicare-Costs-in-2016.pdf. Accessed 21 Jan. 2026. "Original Medicare Costs in 2026." medicareinteractive.org, Medicare Rights Center, https://www.medicareinteractive.org/wp-content/uploads/Original-Medicare-Costs-in-2026.pdf. Accessed 21 Jan. 2026. Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.