We Answer Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare

You can enroll in Medicare during your initial enrollment period, which is seven months long and begins three months before your 65th birthday. You can apply online at Sign up for Medicare | SSA. You will create or sign in to your my Social Security account to start the application process. You can also call Social Security at 1-800-722-1213 to enroll. 

Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities, hospice care, and home healthcare services. Click here to learn more.

Medicare Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical equipment. Click here to learn more.

The cost of Medicare varies depending on the plan, your income, and other factors. Most people do not pay a premium for Part A, while there is a premium payment for Part B based on your income. If choosing to remain on Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), we recommend you obtain a supplemental insurance policy known as a Medigap plan to cover some of the costs that Original Medicare does not, as well as obtaining a prescription drug plan (Part D) if you do not have creditable drug coverage. For more information and costs associated with Medigap, Prescription Drug, and Medicare Advantage plans, see below. 

A Medicare Supplemental Plan, also known as Medigap, is a private insurance policy that can help cover some of the out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare. Click here to learn more.

Although Medicare Part D is not mandatory, we recommend obtaining a Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) to ensure you have coverage in the event that you need to begin taking prescription drugs and to avoid paying any late enrollment penalties if/when you enroll after becoming eligible, unless you have creditable drug coverage through an employer or VA benefits. Click here to learn more. Costs for drug plans will vary by insurance company based on drugs taken and monthly cost.

The Medicare Advantage plan, also known as Part C, is a private insurance company-offered alternative to Original Medicare. Click here to learn more.

Original Medicare does not cover routine dental or vision services. Our knowledgeable licensed insurance agents will help you with many plan options to choose the coverage for your needs.

You may be able to switch Medicare plans during the annual enrollment period or during a qualifying special enrollment period.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for individuals 65 or older, or that have a qualifying disability or health condition, while Medicaid is a state-run program that provides healthcare coverage for low-income individuals and families.