AEP 2026 – Broker preparedness checklist

The most successful brokers don’t just show up, they show up ready. This checklist is your roadmap to stronger customer relationships, higher enrollments, and a standout AEP.

1. Start with the Right Tools: Use Our AEP Broker Toolkit

The first and most important step is to equip yourself with the right tools. We’ve created a comprehensive Broker Toolkit packed with everything you need to help you connect with customers and prospects and convert those connections into sales. In our toolkit, you’ll find:

• An interactive product overview presentation
• Our updated Agent Guide (available in English and Spanish) & Product Availability Guide
• A selling recommendation chart to simplify cross-selling
• Social media trainings and a toolkit with customizable social posts
• A full Prospecting Kit with customer-facing materials that you can customize
• And so much more to help you communicate value and close more sales during AEP and throughout the year.

Access the Broker Toolkit

2. Align Your Marketing Strategy & Get Appointment Ready

Your brand and your presence go hand in hand.  Use a strategic, multi-channel approach to keep your name top of mind while making sure you’re fully prepared to show up strong.

Lock in appointments now to avoid calendar chaos later. Confirm time slots early and send appointment reminders.

Utilize a multi-channel approach: leverage social media, community events, email, and print materials to keep your name at the forefront. Looking for brochures, booklets, or mailers? Look no further than StoreFront, your one-stop shop for sales materials. With a fresh new look and easy navigation, you can find what you need fast, whether you’re downloading a PDF or ordering printed pieces shipped to your door.

Click to get started

3. Engage Your Book & Set Clear Goals

Review last year’s data. Who enrolled? Who renewed? Where did you gain or lose momentum? Use that to set smart goals this AEP.

Re-engage your customers. Confirm their satisfaction with their current coverage and ask if their needs have changed.  These conversations create cross-sell and referral opportunities that can build your book of business before AEP even begins.

Define targets for retention, enrollment, cross-selling, and referrals, then build a plan to achieve them.

Download your Retention Strategy Guide Today

4. Fuel Yourself for the Long Haul

This is your moment, and your stamina matters. Set yourself up to win with small habits that power big results:

• Hydrate regularly to stay sharp and energized.
• Eat with intention and fuel up with high-protein snacks and balanced meals.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Watch caffeine and sugar crashes, they’ll cost you clarity and time.

This isn’t about taking it easy, it’s about staying strong from day 1 through the last day of AEP.

Final Tip:
Great brokers don’t just sell, they serve. Use your tools. Be present. Ask questions. Guide customers through the process like a pro. When you show up with expertise and empathy, customers stick with you and bring their friends!