How can this service be free? How do you make money? (what’s in it for us?)

 

We provide our service at zero cost to you. When we help you enroll in the right plan for you, the company that you choose will pay us directly. We have established relationships with all of the carriers of Medicare Supplement Plans, Medicare Advantage Plans and  Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans. We will help you to compare all of the available plans. There is no cost or obligation to you even if you choose to enroll with another broker.

 

What if I just enroll in my Medicare Supplement Plan directly with the insurance company? Will it save me money?

 

The prices for Medicare Supplement Insurance, Medicare Advantage Plan and Part D Prescription Drug Plans are fixed. The plan will cost the same if you deal directly with the insurance company but you will not have the benefit of an agent to guide you and help you when you need service. We strive to provide the highest level of customer service. In this way our clients can enjoy total peace of mind.

 

What is a Medigap Policy?

 

A Medigap policy is health insurance sold by private insurance companies to fill the "gaps" between what the original Medicare plan covers and what the beneficiary will have to end up paying. Medigap policies help pay some of the health care costs that the original Medicare plan does not cover. Medigap policies are aslo known as Medicare Supplement Insurance Policies

 

When can I sign up for my Medigap Policy? 

 

You have a 6-month Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) policy open enrollment period which starts the first month you’re both 65 and enrolled in Part B. This period gives you a guaranteed right to buy any Medigap policy sold in your state.  You can’t be turned down for any plan you choose.

 

I just signed up for a Medicare Supplement Plan... when can I expect my cards?

 

It usually takes between 2 and 3 weeks to process a new application. If you are approved for coverage, your coverage will start on the date requested on your application.If you don’t receive your new policy and cards within three weeks of applying, please give us a call. We will check on your application.

 

Are there limits on when I can change my Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan?

 

Actually, you can change your Medicare Supplement Plan at anytime. However you must qualify health wise unless you are in a guaranteed issue period. You may be turned down if you have pre-existing conditions. The insurance companies vary as to their underwriting standards and some companies are easier to qualify with than others. Give us a call.We will work hard to find the right fit for you.

 

What is a “guaranteed issue period”?

 

A guaranteed issue period is a time when you cannot be denied coverage on any plan that you choose. You have a 6 month guaranteed period when you initially sign up for Medicare Part B. This is an important time to really compare the plans and consider your options carefully because during this time you have the greatest freedom of choice.   

 

What if I have pre-existing conditions?

 

If you have pre-existing conditions and you would like to find a more affordable Medicare Supplement Plan call us and we will help you find out which plans you can qualify for.

 

Will the new health care law have an impact on my Medicare coverage or benefits?

 

Rest assured that Medicare will be here for you. You don't have to make any changes to your plan. If you like what you have you can keep it. The new law improves Medicare. It will help close the coverage gap in prescription drug coverage (also known as the doughnut hole)Starting 2011, the new law will also helps lower the cost of preventive services.We will continue to keep up to date with changes so that we can keep you informed.

 

Should I join a Medicare drug plan even if I don’t take many prescription drugs? 

 

If you don't use a lot of prescription drugs now, you should still consider joining.  As we age, most people need prescription drugs to stay healthy.  For most people, joining when you are first eligible for Medicare means you won't have to pay a penalty if you choose to join later. Your premium will be higher if you wait to join because of the penalty.You can join a drug plan when you are first eligible for Medicare. In most cases, if you don't join during this period, your next chance to join will be between October 15th and December 7th each year, and you will have to pay a penalty. This means you pay a higher monthly premium for as long as you have Medicare prescription drug coverage. 

 

How do I find out if I have Medicare Part A and B?

 

You can call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or contact your local Social Security Office to verify your Medicare Part A and Part B coverage. If you have a red, white, and blue Medicare card, look at the lower left corner of your card. It will show whether you have Hospital (Part A), Medical (Part B), or both.

 

When can I sign up for Medicare Part B?

 

There are 3 different periods in which you can enroll in Part B.

 

1) IEP- Initial Enrollment Period

This is a 7 month period that start 3 months before your 65 birthday, includes the month of your birthday and ends the last day of the 3rd month after your birthday. You must sign up in the 3 month period  prior to your birthday for your Part B coverage to be effective the month you turn 65.

 

2) General Enrollment Period

If you didn’t sign up for Part A and/or Part B(for which you pay monthly premiums) when you were first eligible, you can sign up between January 1 and March 1 each year. Your coverage will begin July 1.You may have to pay a higher premium for late enrollment.         

 

3) Special Enrollment  Period

If you didn’t sign up for Part A and/or Part B when you were first eligible because you are covered under a group health plan based on current employment, you can sign up for Part A and/or Part B as follows:

a)  Any time that you or your spouse (or a family member if you are disabled) are working, and you are covered by a group health plan through the employer or union based on that work.

b)  During the 8 month period that begins the month after the employment ends or the group health plan coverage ends, whichever happens first.