Simple Medicare Supplements
We take the guesswork out of Medicare health plan selection so you can find the perfect fit for your needs.
Unraveling the intricacies of Medicare health plans can be stressful. We’ll explain the basics of enrollment periods, types of coverage and other information you’ll need to find and enroll in a plan that’s right for you.
We’re here to provide clarity and assistance, let’s make it simple.
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a health insurance program designed for individuals aged 65 and above, or those younger who meet specific disability criteria. Your eligibility to enroll in Medicare begins three months prior to your 65th birthday. Earlier enrollment may be available if you have a qualifying disability, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), or ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). With Original Medicare, you have the freedom to choose any healthcare provider that accepts Medicare coverage.
When can you enroll in Medicare?
During the Initial Coverage Enrollment Period (ICEP), you are eligible to enroll in Medicare 3 months prior to the month of your 65th birthday, your birthday month and the 3 months after. In some cases, you may be eligible to get Medicare earlier if you have a qualifying disability, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or ALS (also called Lou Gehrig’s disease). For resources on how to enroll in Medicare click here.
During the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), you can change your Medicare coverage for the upcoming year. AEP starts every year on October 15th and ends on December 7th and allows you to enroll in a Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plan. Any changes you make during AEP will be effective on January 1st of the upcoming year. You can take advantage of AEP to make changes to your coverage by enrolling, switching or un-enrolling from your current plan.
The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP) takes place January 1st-March 31st. During this time, individuals enrolled in an MA plan may add or drop Part D coverage. Individuals enrolled in either MA-PD or MA-only plans can switch to: MA-PD, MA-only, or Original Medicare (with or without a stand-alone Part D plan). The effective date for an MA OEP election is the first of the month following receipt of the enrollment request.
Sometimes there are situations which may allow you to make a change outside of the above listed periods. This is called a Special Election Period. Often times this is due to moving to an area where your current plan is no longer offered, or your plan loses its contract with Medicare. click here to learn about situations that would qualify you for a Special Election Period.