What You Need to Know Regarding AHIP and NABIP Certification for 2025 AEP
Are you an insurance agent offering Medicare solutions as part of your practice? If so, then AEP (Annual Enrollment Period) is likely the most critical time of the year for that part of your business. AEP is intense, fast-paced, and using every moment effectively is crucial to your success. Conversely, any delay or misstep can cost you valuable revenue.
To be ready to sell Medicare Advantage (MA), Medicare Advantage plus Part D (MA-PD), and Part D (PDP) plans from day one of AEP, you must be properly certified. Missing this deadline could derail your AEP season. Two certification programs are widely recognized in the industry: America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) and the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP). But which certification is right for you? What do they cost? When should you get started?
What Are AHIP and NABIP Certifications?
AHIP and NABIP certifications are annual training requirements for agents selling MA, MA-PD, and PDP plans. Both meet the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Medicare + Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (MFWA) Training requirements. Agents only need one or the other of these two certifications, not both.
AHIP Certification Benefits:
- CMS-compliant training, updated annually
- Transparent course fees with no hidden costs
- CE credits available in all states, Puerto Rico, and D.C.
- A single portal to easily share your scores with multiple carriers
- The most widely accepted MFWA training in the industry
- Engaging, practical content that supports business growth
NABIP Certification Benefits:
- Streamlined online course built with experienced agents in mind
- CE credits included at no extra charge, approved in all 50 states and D.C. (check your state for details)
- An increasing number of carriers now accept NABIP certification (verify your carrier’s participation)
- Certification badge available for your website, email signature, and social media
Certification Deadlines
Both AHIP and NABIP certification courses launched on June 23, 2025. To ensure you’re AEP-ready, you should complete your training and all applicable carrier certifications before October 15. The earlier you complete your certifications, the more time you’ll have to focus on marketing, sales, and client outreach during AEP.
Cost and Course Content
The below costs are based on 2025 AEP prices and are subject to change.
AHIP Certification
- Cost: Starts at $175
- Covers:
- Medicare basics (eligibility, benefits)
- PDP and MA plan types
- Nondiscrimination training
- MA and PDP marketing and enrollment guidelines
- Comprehensive FWA identification and prevention training
- Legal tools and compliance responsibilities
NABIP Certification
- Cost: Starts at $100
- Covers:
- All CMS certification requirements
- Key compliance challenges and market trends
- Medicare Supplement topics
- Updates on CMS regulations
AHIP or NABIP – Which Should You Choose?
The right certification depends on your business goals and preferred carriers. Consider the following:
- Carrier acceptance: AHIP covers more carriers overall, though NABIP is gaining ground. Agents should check with carriers to verify that they accept NABIP certification.
- Content origin: AHIP is regulator-written; NABIP is broker-developed—many agents find NABIP more accessible.
- Support tools: AHIP includes practice quizzes after each module.
- Discounts: Many carriers offer an AHIP discount if completed through their platform.
Save Money on Certifications
Before you register, check with your EMG Insurance Brokerage Sales Director and preferred carriers. They can help you access any available discounts and ensure you meet each carrier’s certification requirements.
Carrier Certifications: Don’t Forget!
In addition to AHIP or NABIP, you must complete carrier-specific certifications to be eligible to sell their plans. Contact your EMG Sales Director with any questions regarding carrier requirements or certification timelines.
How EMG Insurance Brokerage Supports You During AEP – and Beyond
At EMG Insurance Brokerage, we’re more than just a partner during AEP. We offer:
- Free quoting and enrollment platforms
- A full-service back-office support team
- Industry advocacy via our parent company to represent your interests with regulators and lawmakers
Our mission is to help you grow your business and simplify the complexities of the Medicare marketplace.
Helpful Resources to Prepare for Certification
Use these tools to sharpen your knowledge and prepare for success:
- Medicare & You Handbook: Includes up-to-date benefits, rights, drug plans, and FAQs (mailed each September)
- Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans: Covers how MA plans work and differ from Original Medicare
- Your Guide to Medicare Drug Coverage: Helps clients understand drug plan options and financial assistance
- CMS Medicare Marketing Guidelines: Essential for staying compliant with marketing and communications
- CMS National Training Program: Offers free courses on FWA, Medicare, and MA topics
Frequently Asked Questions
What certifications are required to sell MA, MA-PD, and PDP products during AEP?
You need either AHIP or NABIP certification, plus all applicable carrier certifications.
How much do these certifications cost?
AHIP starts at $175. NABIP starts at $100.
Are discounts available?
Yes. Many carriers offer AHIP discounts if you certify through their portal. Always check with your carriers and EMG Sales Director.
Are these certifications required for Medicare Supplement sales?
No, but some Medicare Supplement carriers, such as UnitedHealthcare, may require annual training.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose AHIP or NABIP, getting certified early is essential for maximizing your AEP success. EMG Insurance Brokerage is here to support you every step of the way—with tools, training, and team members dedicated to helping you thrive.
Have questions? Reach out to your EMG Sales Director today and let’s make this AEP your most successful one yet!
