SFM is introducing multi-factor authentication and new password requirements on March 14 to enhance your SFM Agency Manager (SAM) account security.

Setup process available starting March 14

To prepare for multi-factor authentication, you’ll have the opportunity to confirm your email address and mobile number when you log in to SAM, beginning March 14.

You’ll also be prompted to reset your password if it’s under 12 characters to meet the new password length requirement. Once you’ve reset your password, you won’t be required to change it again for a year.

After setting up multi-factor authentication, you’ll be prompted to enter a 6-digit verification code sent via email or text to log in once every 30 days. You’ll also need to enter the verification code whenever you clear your cookies or switch to a different browser or device.

For more information on multi-factor authentication, visit our multi-factor authentication frequently asked questions page.

Separate accounts advised for anyone who needs access

As part of the rollout of multi-factor authentication, we’re also asking customers to set up individual accounts for anyone who needs access to SAM, as sharing accounts will become more difficult.

To add accounts, contact your agency’s SAM administrator.

View more Agent Agenda articles

SFM is making upgrades to its online MyPayroll system with new features and a streamlined process to make it even easier for policyholders to complete their annual premium audit.

The enhancements are expected to go live soon.

For agents, the most notable improvement is that they will receive an email notification when policyholders submit their payroll audit. This will allow agents to keep track of audit status more easily.

“We’re excited to roll out these enhancements to SFM’s MyPayroll system,” said DeAnne Misgen, Premium Audit Team Leader. “We already have strong reviews of our premium audit system, and these upgrades serve as another example of SFM’s commitment to improving the customer experience.”

For policyholders, the new features include:

• The ability for users to securely upload multiple documents at once using a drag-and-drop interface
• Email notifications in addition to physical letters about premium audit deadlines
• Users can add documentation to their audit after it’s been submitted

Meanwhile, the updated MyPayroll will also allow users to use the system even after they have missed their payroll audit deadline and received notice of pending cancellation.

New MyPayroll users

With the enhancements to MyPayroll, a wider range of policyholders will be able to complete their audit using this method, including some policyholders who previously completed their audit in person or via email only. This will give them more control over their audit process, allow for self-service and eliminate the need to schedule an SFM representative each year.

First-time users should find the process smooth and intuitive, and such policyholders will still have access to SFM’s support team and resources.

Again, the upgrades to SFM’s MyPayroll system go into effect during the first quarter of 2024. If you have any questions, please contact your SFM underwriter.

View more Agent Agenda articles

Here’s a look at the latest updates and milestones for SFM’s underwriting staff in the last quarter of 2023.

• Wisconsin Accounts Senior Marketing Underwriter Amber Saurbeir celebrated 5 years with SFM
• South/Metro Accounts Marketing Underwriter Specialist Belinda Seitzer celebrated 5 years with SFM
• Small Business Accounts Underwriter Willie Kirchoff celebrated 5 years with SFM
• Underwriting Technical team Underwriting Specialist Ashley Butcher celebrated 10 years with SFM
• Small Business Accounts Senior Underwriter Jason Kelley celebrated 10 years with SFM
• North/Metro Accounts Marketing Underwriter Specialist Lindsay Henningsgaard celebrated 10 years with SFM
• Small Business Accounts Marketing Representative Mark Lewis celebrated 10 years with SFM

View more Agent Agenda articles

SFM is planning to participate in several insurance industry events in the coming months.

• Feb. 5-7 Kansas Association of Insurance Agents Annual Convention
• April 4 Minnesota Big I Annual Expo
• May 9-10 PIA of Indiana Annual Convention
• May 15-16 Independent Insurance Agents of Wisconsin InsurCon 2024

View more Agent Agenda articles