As we head into the final days of March, agents need to pause, assess, and act. Tuesday, March 31, marks the close of a few Q1 opportunities – but it also brings the beginning of a new quarter of the year, filled with momentum and ways to continue growing your business.
Let’s take a look at what’s ending this month, what still needs attention, and most importantly, where your focus can shift as we head into Quarter 2.
What’s Ending March 31
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP)
The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period wraps up Tuesday, March 31. This is the final opportunity for MA-eligible beneficiaries to:
- Make a one-time change to a Medicare Advantage plan
- Dis-enroll from MA and return to Original Medicare
- Add a PDP plan (when applicable)
If you have clients who were considering a change or applications still waiting on a follow-up, this is the time to reach out and close the conversation.
Quarter One Incentives
In addition, Q1 carrier incentives on qualifying applications end on March 31. As a reminder, these incentives apply to non-MA products. You can view all carriers and plans offering bonuses through the Tidewater VIP Portal.
If you have business in progress, make sure it’s submitted by Tuesday to stay within Q1 guidelines and take full advantage of available earning opportunities.
March 31 is a Deadline, Not a Slowdown
The close of the MA OEP and Q1 incentives mark a shift in strategy, not a loss of opportunity. Many clients may purposely wait until spring to make coverage decisions, and agents who pivot quickly into Q2 can maintain strong, consistent production.
The key is knowing where to focus next.
Quarter 2 Opportunities
Medicare Supplement Sales
For many agents, Q2 is prime time for Medicare Supplement sales.
Why?
- Medicare Supplements are available year-round
- Clients exiting MA during OEP may now be exploring Medicare Supplement offerings
- Spring tends to bring more flexibility for appointments and reviews
- Clients are less distracted than during AEP or MA OEP
Medicare Supplement conversations resonate especially well with beneficiaries who prioritize:
- Provider flexibilty
- Nationwide access
- Predictable out-of-pocket costs
As we head into Q2, consider reaching out to clients who value stability or have expressed frustration with networks or referrals.
Ancillary Products & Cross-Selling
Your existing book of business is one of your strongest assets heading into Q2.
This is an ideal time for:
- Annual coverage reviews
- Post AEP-check-ins
- Introducing ancillary options that complement existing policies
Products such as dental, vision, hearing, hospital indemnity, and cancer coverage can provide meaningful value for clients while helping you strengthen relationships and diversify your income streams.
When discussing additional coverage, focus on framing it as a way to enhance care—demonstrating that you truly have your clients’ best interests in mind while helping them fill meaningful gaps. For tips on having these conversations naturally and confidently, check out our guide on becoming a one‑stop‑shop agent.
*If you’re not currently contracted with the products mentioned above, we encourage you to explore our full range of offerings. When you’re ready to add a new line to your portfolio, simply reach out—we make the contracting process easy.*
5-Star Medicare Advantage Plans
While MA OEP may be ending soon, 5-star Medicare Advantage plans remain available year-round.
These plans can be an excellent option for beneficiaries who:
- Are dissatisfied with their current MA coverage
- Are seeking higher-rated plans with quality care
- Qualify for a year-round enrollment opportunity through a 5-star Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
Having 5-star plans in your toolkit allows you to remain responsive to client needs, even outside standard enrollment periods. Please contact us for additional information on available 5-star carrier plans and contracting details.
Looking Ahead: Deadlines to Direction
Although March 31 closes an important chapter of the year, it opens the door to new momentum in Quarter 2. This is your opportunity to wrap up Q1 strong, revisit your book for new Medicare Supplement and ancillary opportunities, and set the pace for a productive spring and summer.
With the right focus, Q2 can be a powerful season of consistent growth – not a pause. Lean on us for guidance, support, and smart strategies as you move forward. Finish Q1 with purpose and step confidently into what’s next – with us!
