Medicare Benefits – When Do They Change? 

Don’t wait to review your Medicare coverages. If you are looking into enrolling, Medicare has an enrollment period that is open from October 15th to December 7th. Medicare is health coverage for those age 65 and above, certain younger individuals who have disabilities, or those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). If you fit any of those requirements for Medicare, it may be time to look into the different plans and learn more about how the benefits work year-to-year. It is crucial to review all of the available Medicare coverage plans so you can get the best plan for your unique situation. Below is a list of all the current Medicare coverage plans.  

Medicare Plans: 

  • Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) 
  • Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) 
  • Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) 
  • Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) 

What Does Your Plan Cover? 

Every year we can experience changes in our health and need different coverages, and that applies to your Medicare planYour current plan may not fill the coverages that you may now need. It is important to review all of the plans available and change to the best fitting plan for you and your current situation. Keep in mind that plans can make changes to the items and services they cover and what you pay at any time. If you have other types of health or prescription drug coverage, make sure you understand how that coverage works with Medicare. 

What If I Miss Enrollment? 

Not to worry, there are other opportunities to join in and get your Medicare coverage. Take a look at all of the enrollment periods that may be available to you dependent on your situation. 

  • Initial Medicare Enrollment Period – Starts 3 months before you turn 65 and ends 3 months after you turn 65. 
  • General Medicare Enrollment Period– Available if you missed your initial enrollment period. Enrollment starts January 1st and ends March 31st with coverage starting on July 1st. 
  • Special Enrollment Period  If your initial enrollment period is over, you may be eligible to sign up for Medicare during a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). 

For more information on Medicare and potential benefit changes, reach out to your local agent today!