Get your Medicare Advantage Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and learn what to look for. Use this guide to understand your plan's changes and make informed choices for next year's coverage.
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is coming. Learn what AEP is, key dates for 2026, and how to prepare now to ensure your Medicare plan fits your health and financial needs.
Turning 65? This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about Medicare enrollment, including key deadlines, what to do if you're still working, and how to avoid penalties.
Don't miss out on better Medicare coverage. Discover the 6 mistakes to avoid during the Annual Enrollment Period and find the perfect plan for you.
A Medicare "annual physical" and "annual wellness visit" are not the same. The wellness visit is a no-cost, preventive appointment covered by Medicare, while a traditional physical is not.
Prepare for Medicare's 2026 Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). Learn key dates, how to prepare, and why a licensed agent can help you find the right plan for your needs.
Unpack the Medicare Part D late enrollment penalty. Learn why it happens, how it's calculated, and how to avoid this lifelong surcharge.
Medigap users, don't panic! The "monthly termination date" on Medicare.gov is a system error, not a cancellation. Your Medigap policy is guaranteed renewable.
If you're enrolled in Medicare—or planning to be—you may have heard of something called IRMAA . No, it's not a new type of Medicare plan. It stands for Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount , and it can significantly impact what you pay each month for your Medicare Part B and Part D coverage. Let’s break down what IRMAA is, who it affects, and how to plan for it.
If you’re struggling to keep up with the cost of your prescription medications, the Medicare Extra Help program could be the financial relief you’ve been looking for. Also known as the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) , Extra Help is a federal program that assists eligible Medicare beneficiaries in paying for Medicare Part D prescription drug costs . This includes help with monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and co-payments for medications. Why It Matters in 2025 In 2025, changes to Medicare are making Extra Help more valuable than ever. One major update: annual out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs will be capped at $2,000 for everyone with Medicare drug coverage. If you qualify for Extra Help, your costs could be even lower—or nothing at all . Who Can Get Extra Help? Eligibility for Extra Help is based on your income and assets . In general, you may qualify if: Your income is below a certain level (specific thresholds vary slightly by year). Your resources (like savings and investments, not counting your home or car) fall under the program’s limits. Some people automatically qualify, such as those who: Receive full Medicaid benefits Are enrolled in a Medicare Savings Program (MSP) that pays your Medicare Part B premium Receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Even if you don’t automatically qualify, you can apply separately through the Social Security Administration . What Does Extra Help Cover? If approved, Extra Help may reduce or eliminate: Part D monthly premiums Annual Part D deductibles . Co-pays for covered prescription drugs. Many beneficiaries with Extra Help pay no more than a few dollars per prescription . Plus, you won’t pay the Part D late enrollment penalty if you qualify. How to Apply You can apply for Extra Help in one of several ways: Online at www.ssa.gov/extrahelp By phone at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) In person at your local Social Security office If you’re unsure whether you qualify, it’s still worth applying. Many people are surprised to find they’re eligible, especially those with limited savings or fixed incomes. Need Help Navigating the Process? You don’t have to figure it out alone. Your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free, unbiased support. You can also reach out to us... we are happy to help!