Medicare Guidance You Can Trust
Tired of the confusion around Medicare plans? You’re not alone. I help you understand your options and enroll in the coverage that fits your real needs without the stress.
Why Medicare Matters to You
Your Healthcare Safety Net
Medicare provides essential health coverage for millions of Americans age 65 and older, plus certain younger people with disabilities. Understanding your Medicare options is crucial for protecting your health and finances.
With the right Medicare plan, you can access quality healthcare, reduce out-of-pocket expenses, and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re covered when you need it most.
Comprehensive Coverage
Medicare helps cover hospital stays, doctor visits, preventive care, and prescription drugs for your complete healthcare needs.
Financial Protection
Protect yourself from high medical costs with comprehensive coverage options that keep healthcare affordable and accessible.
Trusted by Millions
Join over 65 million Americans who rely on Medicare for quality care, peace of mind, and access to trusted healthcare providers.
Explore Medicare Plans Made Simple
Medicare offers several plan types to match your unique healthcare needs and budget. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right coverage for your situation.
Original Medicare
(Part A & B)
Part A: Hospital insurance covering inpatient care, skilled nursing, hospice, and some home health services.
Part B: Medical insurance for doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment.
- Freedom to choose any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare
- No referrals needed to see specialists
- Nationwide coverage wherever you travel
Medicare Advantage
(Part C)
All-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare.
- Includes Part A and Part B coverage
- Often includes prescription drug coverage (Part D)
- Extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness programs
- May have lower out-of-pocket costs with network providers
Prescription Drug Plans
(Part D)
All-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare.
- Includes Part A and Part B coverage
- Often includes prescription drug coverage (Part D)
- Extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness programs
- May have lower out-of-pocket costs with network providers
How to Enroll in Medicare
Enrolling in Medicare doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these steps to ensure you get the coverage you need when you need it, and avoid costly late enrollment penalties.
Determine Your Eligibility
Most people become eligible at age 65. Some qualify earlier due to disability or certain medical conditions like ESRD or ALS.
Know Your Enrollment Period
Initial Enrollment Period begins 3 months before your 65th birthday month and extends 3 months after (7 months total).
Choose Your Coverage
Decide between Original Medicare with optional supplemental coverage or a Medicare Advantage plan that bundles services.
Submit Your Application
Apply online at ssa.gov, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, or visit your local Social Security office in person.
Review Your Coverage
Once enrolled, review your Medicare Summary Notice and welcome materials to understand your benefits and effective dates.
Compare Plans in Your Area
Find Your Perfect Medicare Match
Not all Medicare plans are created equal. Coverage, costs, and provider networks vary significantly by location and plan type. Our comparison tool helps you navigate these differences to find the plan that best fits your needs.
Enter your zip code to see available plans in your area, compare monthly premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums side by side.
Maximize Your Medicare Benefits
Getting the most value from Medicare means understanding all the benefits available to you. Many beneficiaries miss out on valuable services and cost-saving opportunities simply because they don’t know about them.
Cost Comparison
Getting the most value from Medicare means understanding all the benefits available to you. Many beneficiaries miss out on valuable services and cost-saving opportunities simply because they don’t know about them.
Medigap Supplements
Consider Medigap policies to cover gaps in Original Medicare like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses significantly.
Drug Cost Cap
The new $2,000 annual cap on prescription drug out-of-pocket costs provides significant savings for those with high medication expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I miss my enrollment period?
Missing your Initial Enrollment Period can result in late enrollment penalties and gaps in coverage. You’ll need to wait for the General Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31) to enroll, with coverage starting July 1.
For Part B, the penalty is a 10% increase in your premium for each 12-month period you were eligible but didn’t enroll. For Part D, penalties vary based on how long you went without creditable drug coverage. Special Enrollment Periods may apply if you have qualifying circumstances.
Can I change plans during the year?
Generally, you can only change Medicare plans during specific enrollment periods. The Annual Open Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7) allows you to switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, or change your Part D prescription drug plan.
Special Enrollment Periods let you make changes if you move, lose other coverage, qualify for Extra Help, or meet other criteria. Medicare Advantage plans also have an Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31) for switching to another Advantage plan or returning to Original Medicare.
How does Medicare work with other insurance?
When you have multiple types of coverage, coordination of benefits rules determine which insurance pays first (primary) and which pays second (secondary). If you have employer coverage, it may be primary if you or your spouse are actively working.
Medicare typically becomes primary at age 65 if your employer has fewer than 20 employees. Veterans benefits, Medicaid, and retiree coverage each have specific coordination rules. Understanding these relationships helps you avoid claim denials and maximize your total benefits without duplicate coverage costs.
