If you’re a captive agent or agent broker aiming to sell Affordable Care Act (ACA) health plans, The first thing you need to do is complete the Federally Facilitated Marketplace (FFM) certification.
This is a required annual training program managed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and ensures you are certified to help your prospects navigate the health insurance marketplace, and get the right coverage through the available marketplace plans in their local market.
Unlike other insurance certifications, like AHIP for Medicare, the FFM certification is free and relatively simple to complete.
If you’re a new agent or a returning agent, I’ll walk you through the process below, breaking it down step-by-step so you can get certified quickly and start growing your ACA book of business.
What is FFM Certification?
The FFM certification is required for licensed agents selling ACA health plans through the federally facilitated marketplace or a state-based marketplace. This certification ensures your compliance to help clients understand their eligibility, enroll in insurance plans, and comply with federal guidelines.
Here’s why it matters:
- It’s what allows you to sell individual marketplace plans during the enrollment period or open enrollment (OEP).
- It’s tied directly to your National Producer Number (NPN), ensuring your licensing and certifications are properly tracked.
- It proves to your prospects you are a trusted marketplace agent who understands how to navigate healthcare.gov and support them with their insurance plans.
If you’re already certified for Medicare, you’ll find the FFM training very straightforward.
Plus, it’s managed through CMS’s Marketplace Learning Management System (MLMS), making it accessible and pretty easy to complete.
Steps for FFM Certification
Go to the CMS Enterprise Portal
First, you need to go to the CMS Enterprise Portal. This is where you’ll create your account, log in, and begin the FFM certification process. If you’re a new agent, you’ll need to register. Returning agents can simply log in with existing credentials.
Here’s how to get started:
- Register as a new user or log in if you already have an account.
- Navigate to Add Application and select Federally Facilitated Marketplace (FFM)/Request for MLMS Training Access.
- Confirm your account via email (this will likely be the email that is listed in NIPR).
Complete Your Profile
After accessing the portal, fill out your marketplace agent profile. Make sure you:
- Select the role of Individual Marketplace Agent Broker (unless you’re also selling SHOP plans).
- Have your NPN ready, as it’s required to verify your identity and link your certification to your state licensing.
Begin the Training Modules
Once your profile is complete, you can start the MLMS training.
There are several training modules to complete:
- ACA Basics: Learn the foundations of the Affordable Care Act.
- Eligibility and Enrollment: Understand how to guide clients through the enrollment process.
- Privacy and Security Standards: Protect client information and comply with federal regulations.
- American Rescue Plan Act of 2021: Learn how recent initiatives impact healthcare coverage.
Pass the FFM Certification Exam
After completing the modules, you’ll take four exams:
- Basics Exam
- Individual Marketplace Exam
- Privacy and Security Standards Exam
- American Rescue Plan Act Exam
You’ll need to score at least 70% on each exam to pass.
Review Agreements and Download Certificates
Once you’ve passed the exams, review and sign the necessary agreements. Then:
- Download your completion certificate.
- Confirm your status on the Broker FFM Registration Completion List (RCL) or the Agent and Broker Marketplace Registration Tracker. Important note, it may take 1-2 days for your information to appear.
Tips for Maximizing Your FFM Certification
FFM Approved Vendors
You can complete your FFM training through approved vendors like HealthSherpa or INXSCloud.
Some vendors also offer CEUs (Continuing Education Units) in select states, allowing you to fulfill additional licensing requirements while completing your certification. This is common with various types of continuing education opportunities, but worth pointing out in case your CE’s are coming due in the near future.
Partner with a Field Marketing Organization (FMO)
Working with an experienced field marketing organization like Senior Market Adviso can streamline your ACA sales. FMOs provide:
- Direct access to ACA carriers.
- Resources for client enrollment, like HealthSherpa.
- Marketing support and ongoing webinars to keep you informed.
- Holistic approaches to help you better support your customers and maintain a high level of client retention.
Get Contracted with SMA Today!
Expand Your Product Portfolio
FFM certification opens doors to sell more than just ACA plans. Consider adding ancillary products like hospital indemnity or even life insurance to better serve your clients and increase your revenue.
Stay Consistent with Marketplace Registration
Even after you’re certified, staying engaged with your clients is key. Use tools like the CMS Enterprise Portal to monitor your status and the Marketplace Registration Tracker to stay up-to-date.
FAQs About FFM Certification
What Is the Difference Between FFM and AHIP?
While AHIP is required for Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans, FFM certification applies to ACA health plans. Unlike AHIP, the FFM is free and managed directly by CMS.
What Is the MLMS?
The Marketplace Learning Management System (MLMS) is the platform where agents complete their training for the federally facilitated marketplace.
Can I Complete FFM Training in English and Spanish?
Yes, the training is available in both English and Spanish to accommodate a diverse audience.
What’s Next After Certification?
Once you’re certified:
- Start contracting with ACA carriers to access competitive insurance plans.
- Use tools like HealthSherpa for seamless enrollment and tracking.
- Attend webinars to stay updated on ACA changes and CMS.gov initiatives.
Becoming certified is only the beginning. With the right tools and FMO partnerships, you can build a thriving ACA business.
Conclusion
Completing your FFM certification is your first step toward success in the health insurance marketplace.
By following these steps and leveraging the right resources, you can confidently sell ACA plans and support your clients through every enrollment period.
If you’re ready to take the next step, Senior Market Advisors is here to help. From direct carrier access to advanced enrollment tools like HealthSherpa, we’ll equip you with everything you need to succeed.
Let’s build your ACA sales strategy together. Get started today!
