I am new to Medicare or have Questions. How does it work?
I am New to Medicare
You are eligible for Medicare at age 65, the month of your Birthday. Some members are eligible due to a disability.
You need to work roughly 10 years to qualify for Medicare. You are able to sign up for Medicare 3 months prior to your Birthday month, the month of your birthday, and 3 months after your birthday for a total of a 7 month window. Once you have signed up for Medicare Part B, you will receive your Medicare Card in the mail in a plain white envelope. This can take several weeks.
If you ever have questions during enrollment don't hesitate to reach out to 1800 MEDICARE. They are available to assist you 24 hours a day...We recommend contacting them after normal hours, such as 7pm-10pm for shorter hold times.
If you are retired and drawing Social Security, you should automatically receive Part B. It is always best to check with your local Social Security Office.
Need assistance? We are here to help 559-592-3495
Enrolling online for Medicare
Is it time to get your Medicare ready? If you are within 3 months of turning 65 or eligible because of a disability, we recommend getting Part B "turned on".
Is it automatic? Only if you are drawing social security already. If you are still working, please visit your local Social Security office, or use the Medicare website to enroll here.
Would you like assistance? We can walk you through enrollment into Medicare 559-592-3495
What is a Medicare Supplement?
A Medicare Supplement acts like a PPO plan and can travel freely throughout the United States and is accepted almost everywhere. Plan F can only be purchased if you turned 65 before January 1, 2020. Plan G, the sister to F, is the best plan you can buy if you turned 65 after January 1, 2020. Current Plan F members can also inquire about changing to G to lower their premiums.
Medicare didn't make finding a plan easy by allowing the Supplement names: A, B, C, and D. We have never recommended those plans and prefer the rates and benefits under G, N, K, or High Deductible G and F for current beneficiaries.
It is important to remember all Supplement plans are the same no matter what carrier you buy them from...But rates will vary by region and State.
Need assistance? Give us a call at 559-592-3495
Or visit our quoting tool here
Part D or Drug Plans
Medicare uses private insurance carriers to offer Drug Plans in each state. It is important to note that you can choose any drug plan and the best way to determine the best plan is to use Medicare's Drug Checker tool (or we can do it for you).
You will want to start here
Enter your Zip Code, Pharmacy, Medications, and elect to see Part D. You will be able to view all plans offered in your state (typically 28-34 plans).
If you need assistance call 559-592-3495 or use our "Review My Drug Plan" above or click here
I need help with my Drug Plan Click Here
Medigap, Medi-Cal and VA
If you have full benefits from Medi-Cal (California’s Medicaid program), you do not need a Medigap policy.
If you have Medi-Cal with Share of cost (SOC), you can buy a Medigap policy to fill in the gaps.
The Veterans Administration (VA) is credible coverage and is deemed as good or better than Part D. You are not penalized for keeping VA benefits and opting out of Part D coverage. But in some cases you can get better pricing having a Part D plan with more Generic Medications on your formulary list.
Medicare and You Handbook
Each year, Medicare will adjust the deductibles and co-payments when necessary as directed by CMS. It is important to note that Medicare Supplements automatically adjust each year to any changes that Medicare makes.
Please click here or the Medicare and You Handbook to view the latest benefits available
To download the most current handbook click below: