How to Simplify FEX Contracting and Start Selling Faster
Learn how to simplify FEX contracting and start selling final expense insurance faster. Get appointed with carriers in days, not weeks.
By Agent First Contracts · 2025-01-20 · 6 min read
Becoming an independent Final Expense (FEX) agent can be one of the best career decisions you ever make — but the process of contracting with carriers can slow new or transferring agents down. This guide walks you through what FEX contracting actually means, how it works behind the scenes, and the fastest way to complete your contracts so you can start writing business right away. What Is FEX Contracting? FEX contracting refers to the process of getting appointed and contracted with Final Expense life insurance carriers so you can legally sell their products and receive commissions. Every company — whether it's Mutual of Omaha, Royal Arcanum, or any other life insurance carrier — requires you to complete an agent contract. That contract establishes your commission level, hierarchy, and agent code so you can submit new business and get paid. Many agents confuse licensing and contracting. Licensing is getting your state insurance license through your state's insurance department (NAIC Insurance Licensing). Contracting is getting approved with each carrier through your IMO (Insurance Marketing Organization) or FMO (Field Marketing Organization). Why FEX Contracting Matters Without proper contracting: You can't submit business to carriers. You can't get paid commissions. You can't access carrier portals, training, or underwriting support. In short, contracting is the bridge between getting licensed and getting paid. An efficient FEX contracting system eliminates delays and lets you start selling in days instead of weeks. How the FEX Contracting Process Works Here's how the process usually looks: Step 1: Choose Your Carriers Decide which FEX companies you want to offer. This should be based on your state to keep you competitive and win in every house. The right carrier mix ensures you have solutions for different health profiles and budget requirements. Step 2: Receive Contract Links Agent First Contracts has a digital contracting portal for the majority of companies we offer. Some companies are still using traditional paperwork methods, but that's okay—we streamline the process either way. Step 3: Complete Carrier Paperwork Sign agreements and provide your: Insurance license Voided check for direct deposit E&O (Errors & Omissions) certificate AML (Anti Money Laundering) training certificate Step 4: Get Carrier Approval The carrier issues your writing number or agent code. This typically happens within 3 10 business days when all paperwork is submitted correctly. Step 5: Start Selling Once approved, you can submit applications and receive top level commissions. Many agents find this part overwhelming—and it can be frustrating and time consuming. That's why working with an agency that handles FEX contracts directly can make your onboarding smooth and fast. How Long Does FEX Contracting Take? Turnaround times vary widely by carrier, but most agents are fully contracted within 3–10 business days when everything is submitted correctly. Digital contracting portals (like SuranceBay, SureLC, or in house IMO platforms) can speed things up even more. The Smart Way to Approach FEX Contracting If you're a new or experienced agent entering the Final Expense market, treat contracting as your foundation. A streamlined FEX contracting setup gives you: Access to better carriers Higher commission levels (110 120% first year) Faster policy submissions Centralized support and comprehensive training Exclusive lead programs It's not just paperwork — it's your launchpad for long term success in the FEX business. Before You Start Your Next Contract Here's a simple checklist before submitting your next FEX contract: ✅ Active insurance license in your resident state ✅ E&O insurance certificate ✅ Voided check for direct deposit ✅ AML training certificate (if required) ✅ Completed carrier forms ✅ Contact AgentFirstContracts.com Completing this checklist upfront prevents most common contracting delays and ensures a smooth onboarding experience. Final Thoughts: Make FEX Contracting Work for You Contracting doesn't have to be complicated — but it does have to be done right. By partnering with Agent First Contracts that prioritizes speed, support, and transparency, you can focus on what matters most: helping families and growing your business. Put More Premiums in YOUR POCKET Whether you are currently working with another IMO and feel stuck, maybe you're not hitting your weekly goals, or you're new to the industry — reach out to Agent First Contracts. Have a conversation on how we can help you put more Premiums in YOUR POCKET . Start Contracting Today Related Resources How to Earn High Commissions in Life Insurance Sales Burial Insurance Explained: What Agents Need to Tell Clients How Much Do Life Insurance Agents Make?