"The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' (CMS) decision to positively adjust agent compensation for 2026 is a meaningful step in the right direction," said NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE. "This adjustment reflects growing recognition of the critical role licensed insurance professionals play in guiding Medicare beneficiaries through a complex and often confusing system.
"Insurance agents are highly trained professionals who provide personalized, informed guidance to help individuals choose the plans best suited to their needs. Their support doesn’t end with enrollment. Agents are on the front lines year-round helping clients navigate the challenges that arise after a plan is selected."
NAIFA looks forward to continuing our dialogue with CMS to further improve the beneficiaries’ experience especially by revising the Compensation Rate Submission to require plans to report the specific rate they intend to pay independent agents. The current allowance of a reported range has resulted in shifts from being paid for service to no compensation during the plan year, Mayeux said.