Why Medicare?

Once you become eligible, take advantage of Medicare benefits, after all you have earned it! Even if you are still covered by some type of employer coverage, the benefits and cost savings could be substantial. Learning about your options is easy! We are up to date with current conditions in the Medicare landscape. Keeping you informed, so you can spend time doing the things you’d rather be doing.

Basics Of Medicare

Most Americans become eligible for Medicare benefits when they turn 65 years old. However, people under the age of 65 can receive Medicare benefits in the case of disability, in which a person would need to have received Social Security Disability Insurance checks, SSDI, for more than 24 months. Another way to become eligible for Medicare under the age of 65 is if a person is diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease, ESRD.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions our visitors ask!

What Is The Initial Enrollment Period?

The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) happens once, typically when you become Medicare eligible at age 64 and 9 months.

When Can I Enroll In Medicare?

You are eligible for Medicare on your 65th birthday, but your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) begins sooner. You can enroll in Medicare anytime three months before your birthday month and three months after it, providing a seven-month IEP window.

Do I Have To Enroll In Medicare When I Turn 65?

You don’t have to enroll in Medicare if you already have a creditable health care plan, but once you’re Medicare eligible, it’s a good idea to compare your current health insurance policy against a Medicare health plan. Sometimes the costs are lower, and coverage is the same or better than your employer’s coverage. It doesn’t matter if you are still working or haven’t yet received your Social Security income check.

What Is Medicare Advantage?

Medicare Advantage is commonly known as Part C. It is a type of Medicare insurance that combines Part A and Part B into a plan that not only covers the out-of-pocket expenses, but may provide additional coverage such as vision, dental, wellness programs, acupuncture, chiropractors and much more.

Are Prescription Drugs Covered In Original Medicare?

With a few exceptions, most prescriptions aren’t covered in Original Medicare. However, the government has contracted with private insurance companies that can offer you this coverage at an additional cost. If you are entitled to Medicare Part A and/or enrolled in Part B, you can purchase Part D as a standalone program to cover prescription drugs.

How Much Does Medicare Cost?

The price of Medicare depends on the health plan option you choose. Medicare is not free, and you will pay a premium, which is often deducted from your Social Security check, for Part B along with an annual deductible and a percentage, usually 20%, of the total bill. Purchasing supplemental insurance can help contain costs associated with deductibles, co-payments and prescription drugs.

What Is The Open Enrollment Period And When Does It Start?

The Open Enrollment Period (OEP) starts October 15th. During OEP you can change your health coverage and your health coverage provider. If a person is satisfied with their plan, they don’t need to do anything. It’s always a good idea to compare the latest plan options, as most plans have changes year to year.

Starting in April 2018, Medicare will mail new Medicare cards to all current beneficiaries to help protect against identity fraud. Medicare will automatically mail your new card at no cost to the address you have on file with Social Security. There’s nothing you need to do! If you need to update your official mailing address, visit ssa.gov online and my Social Security account.