We’ve helped find the right Medicare benefits for thousands of people all over the United States. We have learned that there are 3 common, yet untrue, beliefs about Medicare.
Recognizing that these must be something a lot MORE people also believe, we wanted to share these 3 simple truths!
Common Misbelief #1: Once I choose a Medicare plan, I’m stuck with it forever
Fortunately, this is not at all true!
After you’re enrolled in Medicare, you have two enrollment periods each year to make changes in your coverage.
The first is the Annual Enrollment Period, which runs from October 15th to December 7th every year. During this period, you can:
- Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage (and vice versa)
- Choose a new Medicare Advantage plan if you’re not happy with your current plan
- Add, drop or switch Part D prescription drug coverage plans
The second is the Medicare Advantage open enrollment period, which runs from January 1st to March 31st each year. If you enroll in Medicare Advantage and later find that it’s not for you, you can take advantage of this time to make your change. You can switch between Medicare Advantage plans or drop Medicare Advantage altogether and enroll back into Original Medicare.
Common Misbelief #2: You have to be 65 to be eligible for Medicare
Many people only know that you can start receiving Medicare when you turn 65. But there are actually three ways people qualify, and therefore, may be eligible for Medicare benefits much earlier in life than 65.
People qualify for Medicare benefits in one of three ways:
- Age (turning 65 or older)
- Disability
- Certain illnesses
There are amazing benefits from the biggest and best insurance carriers in America. While you may already be receiving Medicare benefits, unless someone has taken the time to walk through your options- based on your location and specific circumstances – you may be missing out on incredible benefits. This includes prescription drugs, dental, vision, phone access to doctors and nurses, massages, and more.
Call the Medicare Benefits Review Hotline and speak with someone who can help you see your options. This service is free but sessions are limited so don’t wait.
Common Misbelief #3: Medicare starts when I retire
Your retirement date has nothing to do with your Medicare enrollment.
In most cases, you have to wait until your 65th birthday to receive Medicare benefits. There are exceptions, like if you have certain illnesses or disabilities. This is why it’s important to note that if you retire at 62, you need another option for health insurance until Medicare kicks in.
Another important thing to remember is your correct enrollment date. If you don’t sign up when you’re first eligible, you could pay late enrollment penalties with your monthly premiums. Spoiler alert- this can cost you a LOT of money.
We know there is a LOT of information, and options, when it comes to Medicare. Sorting through it and feeling confident in your decision is not easy. Let us help you! It’s completely FREE to use our service
