Medicare Guide
Medicare Plans Explained
Understanding Medicare doesn't have to be complicated. We break down your options and help you choose the plan that fits your needs and budget — at no cost to you.
What is Medicare?
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. It's divided into several parts, each covering different services.
Understanding the difference between Original Medicare (Parts A & B) and the additional coverage options (Part C, Part D, and Medigap) is key to getting the most out of your benefits.
That's where we come in. We'll walk you through each part, compare plans from 12+ carriers, and help you make a confident decision — all for free.
Hospital insurance — covers inpatient care, skilled nursing, hospice
Medical insurance — covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services
Medicare Advantage — private plans combining A, B, and often D with extras
Prescription drug coverage — standalone plans for medications
Plan Details
Explore Your Options
Medicare Advantage
(Part C)
Best For
Seniors who want an all-in-one plan with extra benefits and predictable costs.
Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They provide all of your Part A and Part B coverage, and most plans include prescription drug coverage (Part D) as well.
Key Benefits:
- Often include dental, vision, and hearing coverage
- May have lower out-of-pocket costs than Original Medicare
- Many plans have $0 monthly premiums
- Built-in prescription drug coverage
- Fitness programs like SilverSneakers® included
- Maximum out-of-pocket limit protects you from catastrophic costs
Medicare Supplement
(Medigap)
Best For
Seniors who want maximum flexibility and the ability to see any Medicare-accepting provider.
Medigap policies help fill the 'gaps' in Original Medicare coverage. These standardized plans are labeled with letters (A through N) and help pay for costs like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Key Benefits:
- Predictable out-of-pocket costs every month
- Freedom to see any doctor who accepts Medicare nationwide
- No network restrictions or referral requirements
- Guaranteed renewable — your plan can't be canceled
- Coverage when you travel anywhere in the U.S.
- Plans are standardized, making comparison easy
Prescription Drug Plans
(Part D)
Best For
Anyone with Original Medicare or Medigap who needs prescription drug coverage.
Medicare Part D plans provide prescription drug coverage. If you have Original Medicare or a Medigap plan, you can add a standalone Part D plan to help cover the cost of your medications.
Key Benefits:
- Coverage for brand-name and generic prescriptions
- Plans vary by formulary — we help match your medications
- Extra Help program available for those with limited income
- Annual enrollment period every fall (Oct 15 – Dec 7)
- Avoid late enrollment penalties with timely sign-up
- We compare costs at your preferred pharmacy
Important Dates
Medicare Enrollment Periods
Don't miss these key enrollment windows. We're here to help you prepare and enroll on time.
Initial Enrollment
3 months before to 3 months after your 65th birthday
This 7-month window is your first chance to sign up for Medicare. We help you understand your options before your birthday.
Annual Enrollment (AEP)
October 15 – December 7
Review and change your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan for the following year. We offer free annual reviews.
Open Enrollment (OEP)
January 1 – March 31
Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another, or drop your Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare.
Special Enrollment (SEP)
Varies by qualifying event
Certain life changes — like moving, losing coverage, or qualifying for Extra Help — may let you make changes outside regular periods.
Medigap Open Enrollment
6 months starting at age 65 + Part B
The best time to buy a Medigap policy. During this window, insurers can't deny you or charge more for pre-existing conditions.
Late Enrollment Penalties
Avoid by enrolling on time
Delaying Part B or Part D enrollment without creditable coverage can result in permanent premium penalties. Let us help you avoid this.
Need Help Comparing Medicare Plans?
Our agents will review your medications, doctors, and budget to recommend the best Medicare plan for you — 100% free.