Medicare Resources
Straightforward answers. Reliable information. No Medicare dictionary required.
Learn Medicare
Educational guides and information that help people understand Medicare.
Common Medicare Questions
When do I need to enroll in Medicare?
Your Initial Enrollment Period generally begins three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after your birthday month. But turning 65 doesn’t always mean you need to enroll right away—especially if you or your spouse are still actively working and you have employer coverage.
Do I need Medicare if I’m still working at 65?
Maybe. It depends on who the employer coverage is through, the size of the employer, whether the coverage is based on current employment, and whether you contribute to an HSA. This is one of those situations where getting advice before enrolling can prevent expensive mistakes.
What’s the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement?
Medicare Advantage replaces the way you receive your Original Medicare benefits through a private insurance company and often combines medical and prescription drug coverage in one plan. Medicare Supplement works alongside Original Medicare to help cover some of the costs Medicare leaves behind. Neither is automatically better—the right fit depends on your healthcare needs, doctors, prescriptions, budget and preferences.
Does Medicare cover prescription drugs?
Original Medicare generally does not include outpatient prescription drug coverage. You can obtain Part D coverage through a standalone prescription drug plan or through many Medicare Advantage plans that include prescription coverage.
Can I keep my doctors when I go on Medicare?
That depends on the coverage you choose. With Original Medicare, you can generally see providers nationwide who accept Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans typically use provider networks, so checking your doctors and hospitals before enrolling is important.
How much does Medicare cost?
There isn't one price for Medicare. Your costs can include your Part B premium, possible Part A premium, prescription drug coverage, Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement premiums, deductibles, copays and coinsurance. Some Medicare Advantage plans may have a $0 additional monthly plan premium, but you generally still pay your Part B premium.
Can I change my Medicare coverage later?
Yes, but when and how you can change coverage depends on the type of Medicare coverage you have and the enrollment period available to you. Medicare Advantage and Part D plans have specific election periods, while Medicare Supplement rules are different and can include medical underwriting depending on the situation and state.
Do I pay more to use a Medicare broker?
No. There is generally no additional cost to you for working with an independent Medicare broker like Trusted Advantage. Along with Medicare resources New York residents can use to learn about their options, I can help you compare available plans, enroll in coverage, and have someone to call when questions come up later.