Resources & FAQ
Answers to Your Insurance Questions
Understanding your coverage options shouldn't be complicated. We've put together the most common questions and key resources to help you make confident decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions, Clear Answers
Plan Comparison
Medicare Plan Types at a Glance
Each Medicare option works differently. Here's a quick overview to help you understand your choices. For more information about your plan options, checkout the Learning Center where you can read more articles and get quotes.
Want to explore plans side by side? Visit the Learning Center
Original Medicare (Parts A & B)
Government-run coverage for hospital (Part A) and medical (Part B) services. You can see any provider that accepts Medicare nationwide.
Advantages
- Nationwide provider access
- No referrals needed
- Predictable structure
Considerations
- No out-of-pocket maximum
- No prescription drug coverage
- Gaps require supplemental coverage
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Works alongside Original Medicare to cover cost-sharing gaps like deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. Sold by private insurers.
Advantages
- Predictable costs
- No network restrictions
- Covers most out-of-pocket gaps
Considerations
- Separate Part D plan needed
- Monthly premium in addition to Part B
- Medical underwriting may apply outside open enrollment
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
An all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurers. Often includes Part D, dental, vision, and hearing benefits.
Advantages
- May have lower monthly premiums
- Includes extra benefits
- Out-of-pocket maximum protection
Considerations
- Network restrictions may apply
- Prior authorizations often required
- Plan availability varies by location
Part D Prescription Drug Plans
Standalone drug coverage that works with Original Medicare or Medigap. Each plan has its own formulary (list of covered drugs).
Advantages
- Covers prescription costs
- Protects against high drug costs
- Available in most areas
Considerations
- Formularies vary by plan
- Late enrollment penalty if delayed
- Coverage gap (donut hole) may apply
Medicare Enrollment
When Can You Enroll?
Missing an enrollment window can mean gaps in coverage or late penalties. Here are the key periods to know.
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
Begins 3 months before your 65th birthday month, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after. This is your first opportunity to enroll in Medicare Parts A and B.
Enrolling in the first 3 months avoids delayed coverage start dates.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
Also called Open Enrollment. You can switch Medicare Advantage plans, change Part D drug plans, or move between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. Changes take effect January 1.
Review your plan every year — formularies and premiums change annually.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (OEP)
If you're already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to a different MA plan or return to Original Medicare (and join a Part D plan).
You can only make one change during this period.
Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
Triggered by life events such as losing employer coverage, moving out of your plan's service area, qualifying for Medicaid, or other qualifying circumstances.
Contact us right away when a qualifying event occurs — SEP windows are time-sensitive.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to walk you through anything — no pressure, no jargon. Just honest guidance from someone who's in your corner.