Medicare is confusing. We'll
make it clear.
Between Part A, Part B, Part C, Part D, Advantage plans, Supplement plans, and enrollment windows — Medicare is a lot. We help people sort through all of it, understand what they're actually choosing, and enroll in the right plan for their situation. No jargon. No pressure.
Breaking it down.
Part A — Hospital Insurance
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Most people don't pay a premium for Part A if they've worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
Part B — Medical Insurance
Covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and medical equipment. There's a monthly premium for Part B — the amount depends on your income.
Part C — Medicare Advantage
A private insurance plan that bundles Parts A and B (and usually Part D) into one plan. Often includes extra benefits like dental, vision, and hearing. Premiums vary — some plans have $0 premiums. Offered through private carriers we work with.
Part D — Prescription Drug Coverage
Covers prescription medications. You can add Part D to Original Medicare (Parts A and B), or get it bundled into a Medicare Advantage plan. Plans and formularies vary — this is where comparison really matters.
Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement — what's the difference?
This is one of the most common questions we get. Here's the honest answer:
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
- Replaces Original Medicare with a private plan
- Often lower premiums, sometimes $0
- Usually includes drug coverage and extra benefits
- Works within a network — your doctors need to be in-network
- Out of pocket costs can be higher if you use it a lot
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
- Works alongside Original Medicare to cover gaps (deductibles, copays, coinsurance)
- Higher monthly premiums, but more predictable out-of-pocket costs
- Works with any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare — no networks
- Does not include drug coverage — you'd need a separate Part D plan
Neither is universally better. It depends on your health, how often you use care, your budget, and your doctors. We'll help you compare based on your actual situation.
When can you enroll?
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
Starts 3 months before you turn 65 and ends 3 months after. This is the best time to enroll - missing it can mean permanent late enrollment penalties.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
October 15 - December 7 each year. If you already have Medicare, this is when you can switch plans, add drug coverage, or move between Advantage and Original Medicare.
Special Enrollment Periods
If you're still working at 65 and have employer coverage, or if you've had a qualifying life event, you may have a Special Enrollment Period. These have strict timelines.
Let's figure out the right plan for you.
Tell us a little about your situation and a licensed Medicare specialist will reach out to walk you through your options.
Common questions.
Is there a cost to work with you?
No. We're paid by the insurance carriers, not by you. Our guidance and enrollment help are completely free.
Do I have to enroll in Medicare at 65?
Not necessarily. If you're still working and have qualifying employer coverage, you may be able to delay without penalty. But the rules are specific — contact us before your 65th birthday to make sure you don't miss a window.
Can I change my Medicare plan if I don't like it?
Yes, during the Annual Enrollment Period each fall. In some cases, you may also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. We can help you review your options each year.
What's the difference between a broker and a carrier agent?
A carrier agent works for one company. We work for you. We compare plans across multiple carriers and recommend what's actually best for your situation — not what benefits a single company.
Independent insurance brokers helping individuals, families, and businesses find coverage that actually fits their life.
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