The Unspoken Essentials: Hidden Resources & Best Practices Every Medicare Broker Needs
When it comes to building a successful Medicare brokerage, it’s easy to focus on the big things — contracting, compliance, sales skills, and certifications. But the truth is, what separates thriving agents from struggling ones often comes down to the unspoken essentials: the tools, habits, and behind-the-scenes systems that keep your business running smoothly.
Whether you're brand new or scaling your brokerage, these underrated essentials will help you stay organized, compliant, efficient, and profitable — plus a few Axia-exclusive perks you won’t find anywhere else.
1. Separate Business Checking Account
Why it matters:
Mixing personal and business funds creates headaches — especially at tax time. A dedicated business checking account (or a separate personal account used exclusively for your brokerage) keeps commissions, expenses, and tax prep clean and simple.
Insider Insight:
Use this account only for commissions and business expenses. This one discipline will save you hours each quarter.
2. Mileage Tracker App or Device
Tracking mileage is one of the easiest tax deductions for Medicare brokers — but also one of the most forgotten. A mileage app automates this for you so you don’t miss out.
Driversnote vs QuickBooks Mileage Tracker
Driversnote – Best for simplicity
Pros:
Automatic trip logging
Easy business/personal categorization
IRS-compliant reports
Great for multiple vehicles
Very beginner-friendly
Cons:
Subscription required for unlimited trips
Doesn’t integrate with accounting tools
QuickBooks Mileage Tracker – Best for all-in-one bookkeeping users
Pros:
Fully integrated with bookkeeping
Auto-tracking
Swipe to categorize
Tax-ready reports
No extra app if you already use QuickBooks
Cons:
Requires a QuickBooks subscription
Steeper learning curve
Can drain phone battery
Insider Insight:
Choose a tool that fits your workflow. QuickBooks if you want everything in one place — Driversnote if you want simple and standalone.
3. Portable Power Bank
Why it matters:
You’re always on the go. A portable charger ensures your phone or tablet is always ready for signatures, calls, carrier apps, and client meetings.
Insider Insight:
Choose one that can fully charge your phone twice. Leave it in your work bag permanently.
4. Set Aside 30% for Taxes
Why it matters:
As a 1099 broker, taxes are fully on you. Saving 30% immediately protects you from stress and surprise bills.
Insider Insight:
Automate deposits to your tax savings account every time commissions hit.
5. Professional Email Address
Why it matters:
You’ll receive a flood of carrier, compliance, contracting, and client emails. A dedicated business email keeps everything organized and looks professional.
Insider Insight:
Avoid the word “Medicare” in your email. Use options like:
firstname.lastname.seniorhealth@gmail.com
firstname.advisor@gmail.com
6. Portable Hotspot
Why it matters:
Your phone’s hotspot drains your battery fast. A dedicated portable hotspot gives you reliable internet during client meetings, at events, or on the road.
Insider Insight:
Test the hotspot at the places you work most — coverage varies widely.
7. Quality Headset or Noise-Canceling Earbuds
Why it matters:
Clear communication = credibility. Noise-canceling earbuds or a professional headset ensure your calls are always crisp, no matter the environment.
Insider Insight:
Keep a spare pair in your car or work bag.
8. A Simple Consumer-Facing Website (Even Just One Page!)
Why it matters:
A Medicare-focused website builds trust and gives clients an easy way to contact you, read testimonials, and learn about your services. Even a single-page site can make a big difference.
Insider Insight:
Refresh your site regularly with new testimonials or services.
Axia Advantage:
Our broker partners receive a complimentary branded one-page website done for you, easy to maintain, and professionally designed.
9. Name Tag (Magnetic Back)
Why it matters:
Professional, clean, and perfect for events, clinics, or community presentations.
Insider Insight:
Include your name + your agency logo.
10. QR Code Linked to Your Electronic Permission to Contact (PTC)
Why it matters:
A personalized QR code makes staying compliant and generating leads simple. Add it to:
Business cards
Flyers
Event tables
Social media posts
Community outreach materials
Clients can request information with one quick scan.
Insider Insight:
Create unique QR codes for different events so you know which outreach efforts are performing best.
Our Advantage:
All brokers receive a customizable QR code linked to their PTC form, included free with our partnership and easily integrated into your print and digital marketing.
Final Thoughts
Success in Medicare isn't just about sales skills or certifications. It’s about building strong habits, using the right tools, and partnering with an FMO that provides real support and meaningful resources.
We help brokers grow with confidence, providing structure, tech, support, training, and exclusive tools that help you stand out.
Which hidden gem has helped you the most in your brokerage?
What would you add to this list? Let's keep the conversation going.
