Are You New To Medicare?
Not Sure Where to Begin?
As a new Medicare beneficiary, you have important decisions to make about the future of your healthcare. Unfortunately, understanding the “ins-and-outs” and selecting the right plan can be challenging.
Start by enrolling in our virtual course where you’ll learn the important basics and then for more in-depth information, read through the content of this site and connect with one of our licensed and certified agents in your local area for free assistance.
Friendly, licensed professionals are available to answer all of your questions. Call (330-395-0200 or complete the form below and we’d be happy to reach out to you.
By submitting this information, you acknowledge a licensed insurance agent may contact you by phone, email, or mail to discuss Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Prescription Drug Plans.
Who is eligible for Medicare?
All US citizens become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65. Non-citizen permanent residents are eligible at 65 also, provided they have lived in the country for at least five years.
If you are under 65, you might qualify for Medicare if:
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You are permanently disabled and have received Social Security Disability benefits for at least 24 months
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You have been diagnosed with end-stage renal disease (kidney failure)
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You have been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease) and are receiving Social Security Disability benefits
As with most large, complex government programs, Medicare can seem a bit overwhelming at first. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you navigate the application procedure, annual enrollment, and more.
Important Note: The General Enrollment Period is not a safety net for missing your Initial Enrollment Period. You will be charged a late penalty, and your coverage won’t begin until July 1.
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When should you apply for Medicare?
You become eligible for Medicare when you turn 65 years old. However, if you have already claimed Social Security benefits at that time, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare on your 65th birthday. You will receive Medicare Parts A and B. To enroll in other Medicare programs, such as Part C (Advantage) or Part D (prescription) you must meet with an insurance professional to elect those benefits.
Those who have not already begun to draw Social Security benefits will need to apply for Medicare when they turn 65. The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) begins three months before your 65th birthday, lasts throughout the month of your birthday, and then for three months after that. So, you have seven months in total to complete the enrollment process.
There is one exception to the above rule: If your birthday falls on the first day of the month, your IEP will begin one month earlier.
The Difference Between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage
Much of the difference between the two plans involves the way in which you access your benefits.
With Original Medicare, you are subject to deductibles and a 20 percent co-insurance on Part B. You can access care at any doctor’s office or hospital that accepts Medicare (which most do).
Under a Medicare Advantage plan, you access care through a network of providers in your coverage area. You will owe co-pays that vary for different services, depending upon how your plan is structured. Some plans will charge a per-day co-pay for hospital stays, while others charge a flat amount for the entire stay.
Medicare Advantage plans tend to change more each year, with regard to coverage. However, beneficiaries have the opportunity to review their plans each year, and choose one that best suits their anticipated needs for the upcoming coverage year.