Navigating Medicare can be confusing. Things often change from year to year, and it can be hard to keep up.

There are several places where you can get free Medicare help any time to navigate your options, and ensure you’re well informed and confident when choosing your coverage.

Free Medicare Resources

Your healthcare matters, and that’s why doing your due diligence on your options is so important.

Asking your relatives and friends what they think about Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans (Medigap) may be a good place to start. But internet research is a good way to get an unbiased opinion.

(We know what you’re thinking: “How can I trust what’s on the internet?” There are a few ways you can tell if a website is credible. Get some tips here.)

We’ve added some of our favorite Medicare resources below so you can get started. You can also check your state government website for any local resources available to you.

If you’re about to turn 65:

• Medicare.gov:
  • Part A & Part B sign up periods
  • Medicare & You handbook
  • Free publications
• AGA Medicare Options article: Am I Eligible for Medicare?

If you’re interested in getting more coverage:

• AARP: Your Guide to Medicare Open Enrollment
• AGA Medicare Options article: What’s the Difference Between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage?

If you want to switch plans:

• Medicare Matters: How Do You Change Medicare Plans?
• Medicare.gov: Join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage Plan
• Medicare.gov: How to switch your Medicare drug plan
• AGA Medicare Options article: 5 Tips to Compare Medicare Plans
• AGA Medicare Options article: 10 Things to Know About Your Medicare Options

If you want to stay up-to-date on all things Medicare:

• Medicare.gov: Forms, help, & resources
• Medicarerights.org: Free newsletter
• Medicare news: Set a Google alert (learn how here)

Independent Insurance Agents Selling Medicare Plans

Some of us need to talk things through with a person. That’s where an independent insurance agent comes in. But when it comes to insurance agents, there’s the great, the good – and then the non-compliant.

A non-compliant independent insurance agent…

• Promises free premiums and “best” plans.
• Tries to sell you other kinds of insurance at the same appointment, too. Legally, they can’t do that. They also can’t sell to people you know without their consent first.
• Makes you feel uncomfortable. If anyone tries too hard to get your time, or is too pushy – take it as a red flag. Do not do business with them.

A compliant independent insurance agent…

• Won’t do any of the above.
• Will take the time to ask important questions about your health, current doctors and prescription drugs, and your budget. Your answers help determine the coverage that best suits your needs.

A great independent insurance agent does everything a compliant agent can, PLUS…

• Displays extensive Medicare knowledge.
• Makes you feel comfortable when you meet, and confident when you walk away to make your own healthcare decisions.
• Follows up in a timely and professional manner.
• Keeps you updated on Medicare changes throughout the year.

Medicare annual enrollment period starts October 15, 2019. If you’re unsatisfied with your current Medicare coverage, allow us to connect you with an independent agent in your area. No charge – ever.