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Medicare FAQ's

What age does Medicare start?

At age 65, you are eligible for Medicare, regardless of whether you are already receiving Social Security income benefits. Some people may also qualify for Medicare earlier than 65 due to qualifying a disability or illness.

Am I required to start Medicare when I turn 65?

No, but there are significant penalties for late enrollment unless you have other creditable medical coverage, such as from a large employer.

How do I know when I should sign up for Medicare?

For most people, your Initial Enrollment Period (A 7-month window in which you should enroll in Part A and Part B to avoid late enrollment penalties) is the best time to sign up for Medicare. If you need assistance understanding your enrollment options, please contact us today!

Do I need to be on Social Security to get Medicare coverage?

While millions of seniors rely on Medicare for health benefits in retirement, and depend on Social Security as a key income source - making the two programs are interrelated, participation in one doesn’t necessarily require being signed up for the other.

How do I enroll in Medicare?

While some people are automatically enrolled into Part A and Part B, if you are not automatically enrolled, you can enroll via Social Security website www.ssa.gov, or apply at your local Social Security office. We are also happy to help walk you through this process and answer any additional questions you may have.

When can I make changes to my Medicare coverage?

You can make changes to your Medicare health or prescription drug coverage between October 15th – December 7th each year during the Annual Election Period. Depending on your situation, there may be other times when you can change your Medicare health or prescription drug coverage. Please contact us today to discuss your options.

What are the different parts of Medicare?

The Medicare program has four parts: Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage plans), and Part D (prescription drug coverage).

What are Medicare late enrollment penalties?

In most cases, if you don’t sign up for Medicare when you’re first eligible, you may have to pay a higher monthly premium.

Can I use "Original Medicare" Plan A + Plan B as my health insurance at retirement?

Yes, however, you will not have prescription drug coverage – resulting in facing unlimited costs in prescriptions due to the gaps in Original Medicare.

How much are your services?

There is no charge for our services. We believe that everyone deserves the freedom to be both healthy and financially protected. As brokers, we are compensated from the insurance companies our clients choose to go with.

How much does supplemental coverage cost?

Give us a call today so that we can review what coverage you need, and calculate your costs based on your state and your age.

What if I have questions about my supplemental coverage?

As your agent, we can help you understand your policy and how to best use your coverages. Call us any time, any day throughout the year, with coverage concerns or questions.

Can my dependent and/or spouse be on my Medicare plan?

Medicare does not have spousal or dependent coverage. Medicare is individual coverage only. If your spouse has reached age eligibility (65), they can enroll in Medicare of their own accord during their Initial Enrollment Period.

Should I choose the same Medicare insurance plan as my spouse?

No, you should normally choose Medicare coverage based on your own health care needs.

I am entitled to retiree benefits. Does that mean I will not need Medicare?

No, a retiree plan will typically wrap around Medicare primary benefits.

Can I keep all my same doctors when I am on Medicare?

This would depend on whether your doctor / doctor’s office accepts Medicare. Many do, but some do not.

Does Medicare have dental plans?

Yes, dental coverage can be provided as an option with a Medicare Advantage Plan. Please contact us for more information on this option.

How do I know if I'm eligible for a Medicare supplement (Medigap) plan?

You are eligible for Medicare supplement (Medigap) coverage if you are already enrolled in Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B. The open enrollment window is six months long, beginning on the date your Medicare B becomes effective.

What's the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

Medicare and Medicaid are two important U.S. healthcare programs. Each program serves different groups of people, although some people are enrolled in both programs. Medicare is a federal government-sponsored healthcare program for those 65 and over, and for other people who are disabled. Medicaid, on the other hand, is a healthcare program for low-income individuals who could not otherwise afford health insurance, regardless of age.

We Know Medicare.

At BG Resource, our independent agents and brokers are licensed, professional advisers. We specialize in Medicare and are here to help you find the right coverage, at the right price for you.

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