If you’re ready to jumpstart your journey towards AEP you’ve come to the right place! Below, we’ve outlined a detailed checklist to ensure your prepared and ready to achieve great success this enrollment period.
1. Contract with Preferred Carriers
Make sure you are equip to offer everything your clients may ask for. Carriers can take up to six weeks to process contracts…so don’t wait to add carrier products to your portfolio before AEP arrives!
2. Complete the AHIP 2026 Training
Before you can offer products from carriers, you must complete the 2026 AHIP training.
3. Complete Carrier Specific 2026 Certifications
You will need to complete a certification for each carrier you are appointed with for Medicare Advantage (MA), Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MAPD), and Prescription Drug Plans (PDP).
4. Verify Ready to Sell Status
Once you’ve passed the AHIP and completed carrier certifications, a carrier will name you ready-to-sell.
5. Order your Plan Year 2026 Supplies
Most carriers will allow you to pre-order enrollment kits so you have plenty of time to get organized before the season gets too busy.
6. Check in with Tidewater
Stay tuned for the release dates of our AEP Roadshows! In the meantime, we’re always available to answer any questions regarding the AEP season. We’re here for you every step of the way.
Carrier Certifications Open Dates
- Aetna: June 25, 2025
- Devoted: June 24, 2025
- Anthem/Elevance: June 27, 2025
- Freedom: June 27, 2025
- Humana MGA: July 8, 2025
- Humana TPA: July 8, 2025
- Optimum: June 27, 2025
- UnitedHealthcare: June 8, 2025
- Wellcare: July 22, 2025
Carrier Certifications Open Dates Coming Soon
Check back in for an update regarding these carriers open dates.
- Cinga
- Clover
- Florida Blue
- Health Care Service Corp (HCSC)
- Molina
