Medicare Insurance
Medicare might feel overwhelming at first—but this is a great place to start. We’ll walk through the basics to help you feel more confident, then focus on exactly what matter most to you.
Overview
You can receive Medicare benefits directly through the government or through a private insurance company
You’ll usually pay a portion of the costs—Medicare isn’t always free
There are specific enrollment periods when you can sign up or make changes
Prescription drug coverage (Part D) is only offered through private insurers
Original Medicare is a great start, but many people choose extra coverage for more predictable costs and added benefits. We’ll help you compare Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medigap (Supplement Insurance) options so you can choose what fits your needs and budget.
Important Medicare Enrollment Periods
Annual Enrollment Period
October 15 to December 7
Medicare Advantage (MAPD) Medicare Supplements Prescription Drug Plans (PDP)
January 1 to March 31
Medicare Advantage plans only (MAPD & MA)
Open Enrollment Period
Medicare was never designed to be your only coverage. The right supplement can provide greater predictability and peace of mind. Now may be an ideal time to review your options and ensure your coverage aligns with your health and financial needs.
Medicare Advantage plans are a private insurance alternative that provide your Medicare Part A & Part B benefits through a managed care plan under Part C. You’re still enrolled in Medicare, but these plans often include additional benefits such as:
Dental, vision, and hearing coverage
Wellness and fitness programs
Prescription drug coverage (Part D), often included
Lower premiums—and in some cases, $0 premium plans
Many plans allow you to see specialists without a referral
Call us to see which Medicare Advantage plans may be available in your area.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Original Medicare (Parts A & B) covers many healthcare costs, but it doesn’t cover everything. That’s where Medigap, also called Medicare Supplement Insurance, comes in. Medigap helps cover many of the out-of-pocket expenses you may be responsible for, such as:
Deductibles
Copayments
Coinsurance
Hospital costs and extended stays
Medigap plans are offered by private insurance companies and are designed to help you feel more confident about your healthcare expenses.
Medigap (Medicare Supplement)
Frequently Asked Questions
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If you’re newly eligible through your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) or qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), you’re in open enrollment. That means:
You cannot be declined
No health questions are asked
Pre-existing conditions are fully covered
(Plan availability may vary by state.)
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Yes, you can get Medicare under 65 if you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Automatic Enrollment: Medicare automatically sends you your card about 3 months before your coverage starts.
SSDI Waiting Period: There's a 5-month waiting period after your disability is approved before SSDI payments begin, then a 24-month waiting period for Medicare.
Your Options: Once enrolled in Original Medicare (Parts A & B), you can choose to add Part D (prescription drugs) or a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan.
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Yes! We want you to feel informed and confident as you explore your Medicare options. In addition to the guidance we provide, we recommend these trusted, official resources for accurate and up-to-date information:
Medicare (coverage, plans, costs, and enrollment): www.medicare.gov
Social Security Administration (eligibility, benefits, and Medicare enrollment info): www.ssa.gov
If you’d like, we’re also happy to help you understand what you find and talk through your next best step.
Get Personalized Medicare Guidance
You don’t have to figure Medicare out on your own. We’ll walk you through the choices and help you choose coverage that fits your needs and budget.