Are there disadvantages to working with a Medicare broker/agent?

Question

Tracy Davis · Accepted Answer

There are some disadvantages. Since covid there have been several brokers that come into the Medicare space that are not doing what is in the best interest of the senior population. These individuals are flipping insurance plans just to make commissions, which is giving a negative representation to all the other honerable agents in the field. There are also captive agents that are employed by a specific insurance company and are paid a salary to represent that one particular company, which is biased and not giving the senior the entire picture. Therefore, when selecting a local broker to work with; request to know if they represent the plans in your area (not just one), ask them how long they have been in business and how they operate their business. I am proudly servicing my members year after year and work primarily on referrals- my goal is to make and keep them happy (which I am sure I am doing). I love having the ability to offer them all their options (and will enroll them in a plan even if I do not get commissions paid) because I will always do what is in their best interest!

Answered by Tracy Davis on August 11, 2025

Broker Licensed in IN, AL, CO & 6 other states

Answered by Tracy Davis Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

Hi, thanks for watching. My name is Steve, and I'm the husband half of the husband and wife Medicare team here in Arizona. Sue is off today, so the question someone is asking is, are there any disadvantages to working with a Medicare broker? I can't think of a single reason why you would not want to engage with the broker. The right broker, and I underline that, the right broker, there's a lot of brokers out there that are brand new. Nothing against them, but unless you've been doing this a while, you just don't have the experience to figure out all the nuances with Medicare. There's a lot of moving parts, and it's complicated, and it takes a long time to figure all this stuff out.

So, I can't think of a single disadvantage. We get paid; we all get the same fee. We get paid when someone enrolls into a plan. Doesn't matter what plan. All the carriers pay the same. But the advantage to having an independent broker, and that's important, an independent broker to help you is that they're not tied to any one insurance company, and you're leaning on their expertise. It's like trying to do your taxes. Sure, people can do it, but you're probably missing out on things because that's not what you do full time. This is what we do.

Finding an independent broker that lives locally, that's not a snowbird, is important because when you're going to get a claim or an issue, it's going to be in the middle of summer when they're in Rhode Island or something. You need to find somebody, in my opinion, find somebody that's local that you think you can trust. Lean on their experience. I mean, it takes a long time to figure out how to do this stuff.

Mike Alexander · Answer

There is no Disadvantage the broker services are free and does not cost you.
You have a advocate that is there for you to assist do you are not alone

Mark Bilgere · Answer

Your Medicare IRMAA is reevaluated each year on a 2 year look back. However, if you experience a drop in income due to a life changing even, you can request a reduction in your IRMAA anytime. Like most things Social Security you do this by filing a form. In this case, a form SSA-44. This form will explain the life changing events that qualify and give instructions on how to submit it.

Answered by Mark Bilgere on August 11, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AR, IN & LA, MN, NE & OK

Answered by Mark Bilgere Medicare Insurance Agent

John Becker · Answer

Yes, there are potential disadvantages to working with a Medicare broker/agent, primarily concerning potential bias due to how they are compensated. While their services are free to you, they are paid commissions by the insurance companies, which may influence their recommendations. Find a Medicare advisor who will spend the time to educate you on both Medigap plans vs Medicare Advantage plans.

Answered by John Becker on December 16, 2025

Agent Licensed in WI & MN

Answered by John Becker Medicare Insurance Agent

Lauren Fodde · Answer

Most people find that working with a Medicare broker makes the process easier, clearer, and far less stressful. However, like with any profession, your experience depends on the quality of the agent you choose. Here are a few things some seniors consider potential downsides, along with how to avoid them:

Some brokers only work with certain insurance companies.
That means they may not show every plan available. The solution? Work with an independent broker who represents multiple carriers and can give you a true comparison.

Not all agents specialize in Medicare.
Medicare is complex and changes every year, so working with someone who doesn’t focus on it full-time can lead to gaps or missed opportunities.

A rushed or pushy agent can make you feel pressured.
A good broker should educate you, not “sell” you. You should always feel comfortable asking questions and taking your time.

Some brokers aren’t available after enrollment.
Medicare isn’t one-and-done—you want someone who supports you afterward with billing issues, network questions, and annual reviews.

The good news:
A strong, experienced broker removes these concerns. When you work with someone who is independent, transparent, and committed to ongoing support, you actually gain clarity, confidence, and peace of mind—not complications.

Justin Doherty · Answer

Obviously, I am biased on this questions. However, in my personal and professional opinion, the only disadvantage is when you find the wrong agent. When working with a good agent, you will receive the following benefits:
1) Thorough and HONEST review of plan benefits and coverage.
2) Help understanding and choosing your options.
3) Help enrolling in the plan YOU choose.
4) Help throughout the year if you have ANY questions on medications, providers (networks), plan benefits, bills, etc.
5) Plan reviews during the Annual Enrollment Period each Fall. 
Just make sure the agent you're working with is not just selling one or two plans. A good agent might focus on one or two, but he or she will be able to offer you plans from multiple companies. The agent should also be able to offer you Medicare Supplement plans, Medicare Advantage plans, Prescription Drug plans, and ancillary plans for things like Dental, Vision, Hearing, Cancer, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity. You might not need all of these, but your agent should be able to offer them and help you decide which ones will best fit your needs.

Don Hudson · Answer

This is a very interesting question, there could be if they don't have your interest at heart. As a broker we educate our clients and show them all their options. We will recommend some options but at the end of the day, our client makes their own decision.

Answered by Don Hudson on November 15, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Don Hudson Medicare Insurance Agent

Darlene Murphy · Answer

No, not really. A good advisor will always give you advice on multiple topics and products so you can choose which one you prefer. Advisors should also be free of charge and not biased towards your personal preference.

Answered by Darlene Murphy on May 18, 2026

Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, ID & 7 other states

Answered by Darlene Murphy Medicare Insurance Agent

Eddie Tune · Answer

Brokers have to recertify every year and have extensive knowledge as to changes in plan design for the upcoming year... Anyone can do it themselves, but a broker makes it faster and easier in my opinion... Plus, a good broker is always available to help with problems or issues each customer may have with their plan.....

Answered by Eddie Tune on September 15, 2025

Broker Licensed in MO, AL, AR & 20 other states

Answered by Eddie Tune Medicare Insurance Agent

Tyler Haskell · Answer

There can be disadvantages if they are steering you toward certain plans because they get paid more. There can also be huge advantages to working with good brokers that have your best interest at heart. Just make sure you work with a broker that will teach you about all the options (advantage and supplements).

Answered by Tyler Haskell on March 23, 2026

Broker Licensed in UT

Answered by Tyler Haskell Medicare Insurance Agent

Joseph Mullen · Answer

Many individuals believe that meeting with a Medicare broker will lead to high-pressure sales tactics. Which is due to a small number of agents that have used aggressive approaches. At J. Mullen & Associates, our agents take the opposite approach by providing education and guidance allowing you to take your time to make a decision without being rushed.

Answered by Joseph Mullen on August 11, 2025

Broker Licensed in NY, CT, FL & 5 other states

Answered by Joseph Mullen Medicare Insurance Agent

Patrick Metcalf · Answer

Working with a Medicare broker or agent generally offers many advantages — such as personalized guidance, plan comparisons, and help with enrollment — but there are a few potential disadvantages to consider. Some brokers represent only certain insurance companies, meaning their recommendations might be limited to the plans they’re contracted with rather than every available option in your area. This can sometimes lead to less-than-comprehensive comparisons if the broker doesn’t disclose their affiliations or if they focus on plans that provide higher commissions.

Additionally, while brokers are required to follow strict Medicare and CMS compliance rules, not all agents maintain the same level of experience or ongoing education. Beneficiaries should always confirm that the broker is licensed, certified, and independent, and that their advice is tailored to the client’s personal healthcare and financial needs — not just what’s easiest to sell. Doing a bit of research beforehand ensures you’re working with a trustworthy professional who puts your best interests first.

Joshua Wood · Answer

Information bias or plan bias is the only thing you should be concerned with any person youre working with for medicare planning. Medicare brokers should represent many different carriers and all plan types in your area if possible. As long as you do your homework to ensure they do, there isn't a disadvantage working with a broker at all, EVER. They're always no cost to you and Medicare depends on the broker model accounting for almost 75% of all annual enrollments. Find someone you can trust and who does what they say they're going to do.

Answered by Joshua Wood on May 12, 2026

Broker Licensed in KS, AZ, CO & 5 other states

Answered by Joshua Wood Medicare Insurance Agent

John Dalziel · Answer

What kind of question is this, you know these only go to brokers, right?...........................................................................................................................................................................................

Answered by John Dalziel on September 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in Oh, FL, IA & 7 other states

Answered by John Dalziel Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve Houchens · Answer

Actually it’s very much an advantage to working with a broker or agent. A good agent should be able to answer any questions you may have and it’s also important in my mind to work with someone that represents more than one company so you can be sure you’re getting the best plan for you and not just one in cases where that is the only company they represent

Answered by Steve Houchens on August 17, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY & TN

Answered by Steve Houchens Medicare Insurance Agent

Frank Carta · Answer

The plan that you select is only as good as the agent/broker. If the agent/broker is not
properly trained, that could be a problem.

Also a good agent/broker will always be available to return your phone call. This can save
beneficiaries a lot of time waiting to talk to a customer support representative at the
insurance company.

Rick Boyd · Answer

When working with a Medicare broker, you have access to quotes from multiple companies and a mix of coverages. If you are working with a specific company that offers Medicare insurance, it is most likely a single company and can only offer a limited number of policies which that company sells. There are rarely a one size fits all coverage options, so it is best to seek the guidance of a licensed broker who may use your criteria to find the coverage that is a best fit for you.

Answered by Rick Boyd on September 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in KY, AZ, CA & OH, TN, TX & UT

Answered by Rick Boyd Medicare Insurance Agent

DeeDee Whitlock · Answer

In my opinion it is BETTER to work with an agent who knows ALL plans in your area, But also someone who has your back in case you need help on a claim or appeal. You pay the same amount of money as you would going direct with an insurance company. Now your agent is in another state. So whether you go direct with a local agent or the company either way SOMEONE is getting paid for your business!

Answered by DeeDee Whitlock on October 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in LA

Answered by DeeDee Whitlock Medicare Insurance Agent

Vernon Jones · Answer

In most cases is not a disadvantage in working with a broker/agent, but broker should be knowledgeable of the information shared with Medicare beneficiaries and their no cost in the broker assisting you. The broker is paid a small commission from the insurance carrier once the broker enrolls that person into a different plan then they before the Agent of record.

Answered by Vernon Jones on August 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in NC & SC

Answered by Vernon Jones Medicare Insurance Agent

Hannah Skinner · Answer

The only disadvantage would be working with an agent that does not have your best interest in mind. Agent are paid by insurance companies so that you do not have to pay us, but this can lead to agents having financial incentives to put you in a plan that might not be your best option. It is important to work with an agent that you know you can trust because having an agent can make the Medicare process 1000% times easier for you.

Answered by Hannah Skinner on September 18, 2025

Agent Licensed in SC, AL, AR & 44 other states

Answered by Hannah Skinner Medicare Insurance Agent

Lee Hampton · Answer

Not all brokers are the same. Some only work with certain insurance companies, so you might not see every option. Others may not focus deeply on Medicare details, like which doctors are in-network or which drugs are covered. Some may concentrate more on enrollment than on making sure the plan really fits your needs long-term.

The good news? A great broker will be upfront about what they can offer and focus on finding the plan that’s truly right for you.

I specialize in Medicare plans and enjoy building long-term relationships with my clients. My goal is to guide you through your options and help you feel confident in choosing the plan that fits your life best.

Niels Heemskerk · Answer

The advantage of working with a reputable broker/agent is that they know the market and can help answer all questions. Make sure you find someone that will do a thorough needs analysis. If you are not comfortable with the agent, find another one!

Answered by Niels Heemskerk on January 26, 2026

Agent Licensed in IL, MI, OH, PA, TX & WI

Answered by Niels Heemskerk Medicare Insurance Agent

Bill Horton · Answer

No. A good broker will gather all pertinent information about your situation (such as prescriptions and doctors) and filter through all available plans to determine which plan options work best for you.

An agent that only works for one company (known as a captive agent) can only offer you plans from that particular company. Which may or may not be the plan that you need.

A broker will not charge any fee for his or her services - you will pay the same as if you had gone straight to the company.

Mary Brown · Answer

Working with a Medicare agent can be very helpful—they can compare plans, explain confusing rules, and help you avoid costly mistakes. Most are paid by insurance companies (not you), so there’s usually no extra cost.

The main thing to watch for is choosing an agent who represents multiple plans and takes time to find what fits your needs.

Carol Thompson · Answer

Only if the agent is a Captive agent who can only offer you the plans that he/she writes. 

If you work with an unbiased broker who works independently and writes with many carriers then you have more options of plans to work for.  If the agent/brokers seeks a NEEDS anaysis by asking for your doctors and medications that is a good start.

Mike Henry · Answer

Make sure the agent has access to reputable companies. A price doesn’t dictate quality. Also gets you the proper Part D plan. Long term care should be considered.

Eizel Mere · Answer

There is no disadvantage. The price is the same, benefits are the same, company treats you the same. I recommend a broker because they work with many companies and they will not push a specific company on you because they have many to choose from vs an agent who works for one company.

Answered by Eizel Mere on November 24, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Eizel Mere Medicare Insurance Agent

Ken Banks · Answer

Only if they're not looking out for your best interests and needs. Working with a Medicare broker or agent can be helpful, but there are potential disadvantages to consider, including conflicts of interest, limited plan options, and sales tactics that might not serve your best interests. It's important to understand the distinctions and potential issues to make an informed decision.

Answered by Ken Banks on October 20, 2025

Broker Licensed in GA, AL, DC & 5 other states

Answered by Ken Banks Medicare Insurance Agent

Michelle Ryan · Answer

In this situation, I feel like the only disadvantage would be if you were working with a captive agent. A captive agent can only write for one specific carrier. And if you worked with an independent broker, they would be able to write a policy with multiple, if not all of the carriers in your area, so the only disadvantage would be working with somebody that's captive. However, having a broker that you feel like you can trust, who's going to put you in the best plan for you. And not being concerned about income or bonuses is super important.

Answered by Michelle Ryan on December 5, 2025

Broker Licensed in GA, AL, CO & FL, NC, SC & TN

Answered by Michelle Ryan Medicare Insurance Agent

William Murray · Answer

Like most service providers, the greater their experience, integrity & resources are the qualities that define advantages/disadvantages.
Brokers/agents usually give you more choices.
Listen for whom they are most interested in helping, you or themselves.
Contacting insurance companies directly limits your options to only that specific companies' plans. That is a disadvantage.

Chad Hardy · Answer

In most cases, it’s actually a big advantage—especially with an independent agent.

They can compare plans across multiple insurance carriers to help you find what fits best, not just push one option. And it’s not a one-time thing—they’re there each year to review your coverage and make sure your plan still makes sense as things change.

Best part is, it doesn’t cost you anything to work with an agent.

Patricia Graham · Answer

I feel it is very important to have a local agent you can address your concerns or questions to. Serving Medicare clients for over 15 years has proven to me how important it can be to the client to have a person they can rely on at any time who answers the phone.

Answered by Patricia Graham on August 10, 2025

Agent Licensed in WA

Answered by Patricia Graham Medicare Insurance Agent

Ingrid Kollmann · Answer

When I turned 65, almost 10 years ago, I had the hardest time trying to figure this whole Medicare process out.

I went to a Medicare agent who has been one for many years.  She helped me figure things out and afterwards recommended that I become a Medicare agent, as I live in a rural area where many people needed assistance.  

That was ten years ago, and it is most satisfying not only to me but to the many seniors in our foothills that I have helped.  Ask them... ask your neighbors, friends, or other senior family members.

Robert Evans · Answer

Yes and no. No because they be contracted with several carriers. That way you can see plans in your area that are available that you qualify for. Yes because they may only represent one carrier and those are the only plans they present.

Answered by Robert Evans on September 13, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX

Answered by Robert Evans Medicare Insurance Agent

Brenda Watson · Answer

Any broker or agent are going to have more information than a volunteer service.  However, there can be disadvantages to it in todays market if you don't know what to ask.  Let me explain what I mean by this.

There are many agents who educate and offer all forms of Medicare plans.  We educate on the A,B,C & D of Medicare, what the break down is of each part (letter) and explain what your options are.  In that list you have Part A - Hospital, Part B - Medical, Part C - Medicare Advantage and Part D - Prescription plan.  Yet, no where in this list is Medicare Supplement.  The agent may not talk about pairing Original Medicare with a Supplement and Part D because they were only trained on Medicare Advantage.  

Simply put, Medicare Advantage pays us a much higher sales commission than a Medicare Supplement so many agencies simply don't educate their newly licensed agent on this product.  Some agents don't offer it because they aren't interested in the lower commission.  In fact, only about 20% of insurance agents who offer Medicare plans offer both Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage.  

You need to Vet your insurance agent and verify they understand all aspects of the products available to YOU.  Once you're outside of your "Initial Election Period" if you decide you need or want a Medicare Supplement you'll need to answer health questions/go through underwriting.  Due to this you may or may not be approved.  So, ask questions, find out all your options before you make a decision and be sure to choose the plan that takes care of your future healthcare.

Greg Strasma · Answer

Finding an Independent Agent meaning they don’t work for a specific insurance company would be very helpful for you. I represent many of the national carriers which is something you want. National insurance carriers have stood the test of time, they pay their bills which are your bills, and they offer solid coverage and customer service department. Having an Independent Insurance Agent on your side they will ask you what is important to you and find the most comprehensive coverage and benefits for you. As opposed to captive agents who only work for one insurance carrier and cannot offer you a choice of coverage.

Answered by Greg Strasma on November 1, 2025

Agent Licensed in GA

Answered by Greg Strasma Medicare Insurance Agent

Frankie Cochran · Answer

working with a broker agent allows you to build a relationship with a person that can answer your questions when you need them. working together year after year keeps other scammers and poachers from changing your insurance and costing you thousands of dollars a year in additional copayments or coinsurances. having a secure broker agent that has your best interest at heart is a huge advantage because they know what it takes to protect your health and finances from unexpected expenses like major medical, hospital or final expenses. they know your beneficiaries names and know how much they mean to you. it's important to protect yourself and the people you love with the correct coverage and the correct broker agent will help change with the conditions you face year after year

Answered by Frankie Cochran on April 1, 2026

Agent Licensed in GA

Answered by Frankie Cochran Medicare Insurance Agent

William Wheatley · Answer

Honestly, I highly recommend an Agent such as myself because usually a good agent develops a relationship with their clients that is always advantageous to both parties. First off, an agent must be licensed and certified by the state and Federal Government, making them an expert. Second, an agent usually has multiple carriers to offer and is certified by them as well. But again biggest advantage is that a good agent follows up and checks in on the client time to time, and is not just about one sale. Now, all that said, that could be a disadvantage if they're not a good agent and try to steer you to a certain product that doesn't meet your specific needs. Of course, agents like that don't last long! My advice is always to use an agent because of training requirements to be an agent make them a professional expert!

Answered by William Wheatley on December 15, 2025

Agent Licensed in MD

Answered by William Wheatley Medicare Insurance Agent

Brian Williams · Answer

No disadvantage, but depending on what you are looking for, an Agent that represents multiple providers can be of the most benefit. The ability to compare your options is very important. All plans are not created equal.

Answered by Brian Williams on August 11, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, AR, CA & 16 other states

Answered by Brian Williams Medicare Insurance Agent

Maurice Ellis · Answer

Yes, while working with a Medicare broker or agent can be very helpful, there are some potential disadvantages to be aware of. Here’s a clear breakdown:

⸻

✅ First, the advantages (for context):
	•	Expert guidance through complex options (especially if you’re new to Medicare)
	•	Help comparing plans side by side
	•	No cost to you — agents are typically paid by the insurance companies
	•	Can save time and reduce stress

⸻

⚠️ But here are the key disadvantages:

1. Limited Plan Access
	•	Many brokers are “captive agents”, meaning they only represent certain insurance companies.
	•	Even independent brokers may not represent all available plans, especially non-commissioned ones (some plans don’t pay brokers).
	•	This means you may miss out on better or cheaper plans they don’t offer.

2. Conflict of Interest
	•	Brokers earn commissions when you enroll in a plan.
	•	While many are ethical, some may steer you toward plans that earn them higher commissions — not necessarily what’s best for you.

3. Not Always Up to Date
	•	Some agents might not stay current on yearly plan changes or local options.
	•	A Medicare.gov comparison or help from a State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) counselor can sometimes be more objective.

4. Sales Pressure
	•	You may experience pressure to enroll quickly or choose a certain carrier.
	•	Some agents are more like salespeople than advisors.

Lisa Wohlhieter Hobbs · Answer

Although, I do recommend working with an agent you trust will represent your best interests, there may be disadvantages working with a Medicare broker/agent with regards to that particular agent offering limited plan options and should they represent only one carrier their recommendations may be biased. Some broker/agents that are not familiar with the various Medicare Plan benefits may mislead you into a plan that does not align with your healthcare needs, since healthcare needs are likely to change from year to year. In addition, there are other benefits you may be missing out on such as gap coverage for initial hospital stays, extended dental coverage plans, cancer/stroke plans as well as hearing and vision supplement plans if the broker/agent does not offer these healthcare protections.

Answered by Lisa Wohlhieter Hobbs on November 3, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, IL, IN, NC & SC

Answered by Lisa Wohlhieter Hobbs Medicare Insurance Agent

Anthony Scott · Answer

Not if they act in a fiduciary manner. As far as I'm concerned, a Broker, who represents multiple carriers and plans, and thus has no allegiance to any of them, but focuses only on the best interests of the beneficiary and is knowledgeable about those plans is absolutely invaluable to a person trying to decide what is the best option for their specific Medicare healthcare needs.

They will do a complete assessment of not only your needs, but your wishes as well and can point out specifics as to what best fits your needs.

Lara Goulson · Answer

A good broker will be your biggest asset. We never charge and are there to advocate and help you all through the year!

Kevin Price · Answer

It’s always good to have someone working for you. Most agents do not charge for their services. So it’s always good to have another opinion.

Parris Brady · Answer

There are no disadvantages. This way you can ask questions and have them answered immediately. They’re trained to make sure your experience is satisfying, with no future issues.

Jerry Naylor · Answer

Some disadvantages may be focus on some products based on commission, limited plan selection, oversell or misrepresent plans. Limited knowledge of some plans.

Debbie Smith · Answer

No not at all. It’s reassuring for someone to always talk to the same person. It takes a lot of confusion out.

Sharon Boncek · Answer

The majority of Medicare Agents will compare all of the plans in your area, this is very helpful to a client. Just be careful of the captive agents that only work for 1 insurance carrier and only show the plans for that particular carrier, that is the only disadvantage of working with a broker/agent.

Answered by Sharon Boncek on October 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, FL, MI & 8 other states

Answered by Sharon Boncek Medicare Insurance Agent

Are there disadvantages to working with a Medicare broker/agent?

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Are there disadvantages to working with a Medicare broker/agent?

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Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

Related Questions

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A non-government resource website