What is the difference between a Medicare agent and a Medicare broker?

An insurance agent is appointed by the insurance companies it represents, while a broker represents the consumer and can place business with any authorized company. For Medicare Advantage, federal rules treat both the same: agents and brokers must be licensed under state law, pass annual testing with a score of 85% or higher, and document a Scope of Appointment before any personal marketing appointment. Medicare Advantage compensation is capped at fair market value benchmarks, $539 per enrollment nationally, with renewal-year compensation set at 50% of fair market value.