Medicare Services
Your Complete Guide to Enrollment & Coverage
Understanding Your Coverage
Medicare Basics
For most people, enrolling in Original Medicare happens when they turn 65, or leaving employment that provided health insurance. If you’re nearing eligibility, it’s essential to understand the process as well as your Medicare insurance plans, Medicare Advantage benefits, and Medicare prescription drug options.
âś” Navigate the Medicare enrollment process – Get step-by-step guidance so you avoid delays or penalties.
âś” Compare health insurance options – Decide between Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage.
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Understand your benefits – Learn what’s covered and what’s not, including Medicare supplement plans.
Step-by-Step
How to Enroll in Medicare
Create a My Social Security Account
Go to My Social Security to sign up.
This account allows you to view your Medicare confirmation letter once you’re enrolled.
Apply for Medicare
Visit Medicare Enrollment and choose “Apply for Medicare Only”.
Follow the instructions to start a new application.
Check Your Enrollment Status
After about a week, log in to your Social Security account to check your status.
You’ll receive a confirmation letter outlining your Medicare benefits.
IMPORTANT
If you had employer coverage after you turned 65, you need an employer coverage form to show you had credible coverage to avoid the penalties.
What’s Right for You?
Your Medicare Plan Options
Original Medicare (Parts A & B)
- Hospital Coverage (Part A) – Covers inpatient hospital stays and skilled nursing care.
- Doctor Visits (Part B) – Covers medical appointments, preventive care, outpatient services, and some medications.
- Does NOT include prescription drug coverage – You must add Medicare prescription drug plans (Part D) separately.
- No yearly out-of-pocket limit – You may need Medicare supplement plans to cover gaps in costs.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
- “All-in-One” Coverage – Includes Part A, Part B, and usually Part D (prescription drugs).
- Lower out-of-pocket costs – Many plans have set copays and yearly spending limits.
- Extra Benefits – Some plans offer dental, vision, hearing, and wellness perks.
- Must use network providers – Unlike Original Medicare, you’ll need to see in-network doctors for most services.
Still unsure?
We can help you compare health insurance options and find the most affordable Medicare plans based on your needs.
Medicare Prescription Drug Options (Part D)
Whether you choose Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage, you may need Medicare prescription drug plans to help cover medication costs.
- Medicare Part D (Standalone Plan) – Available to those with Original Medicare.
- Included in Many Medicare Advantage Plans – If you opt for Medicare Advantage, most plans include Part D coverage automatically.
Each Medicare prescription drug plan has a list of covered medications (formulary) and may have different copays depending on the drug tier.
Need help picking the right Part D plan? We use specialized tools to compare your medication costs and ensure you get the best fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people 65 and older and some younger individuals with disabilities.
When should I start the Medicare enrollment process?
The first step is to sign up for Parts A & B. Call me 2 months before your birthday month.
What is the difference between Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage?
Original Medicare allows you to see any provider that takes Medicare, but does not include drug coverage. Medicare Advantage often includes prescription drugs, extra benefits, and lower costs but requires network doctors.
What are Medicare supplement plans (Medigap)?
Medigap helps cover out-of-pocket costs in Original Medicare (like deductibles and coinsurance). These plans do not work with Medicare Advantage.
How do I compare health insurance options?
Every person’s needs are different! We’ll help you find affordable Medicare plans that align with your budget and healthcare needs.