Medicare 101

AAA Minneapolis Independent Insurance Agency
can help you on your Medicare journey.

By calling this number, you will reach a licensed insurance agent.

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent 7 organizations which offer 89 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800- MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

What is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, and certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific medical conditions.

Get Expert Help With Medicare Plans

Navigating Medicare can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our licensed agents can help you compare plans and find the best coverage for your unique situation. Contact us today for a free Medicare consultation!

 

NOT AFFILIATED WITH OR ENDORSED BY THE GOVERNMENT OR FEDERAL MEDICARE PROGRAM.  

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When Do I Enroll in a Medicare Plan?

Generally, as you approach your 65th birthday, you'll enter your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). Your IEP lasts for 7 months, starting 3 months before you turn 65, and ending 3 months after the month you turn 65.

Your enrollment period may change depending on your retirement timeline. AAA Minneapolis’ Licensed Insurance Agents can help determine the right time to enroll and avoid costly, lifetime late-enrollment penalties.

Other Medicare Enrollment Periods

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15th to December 7th. You can add, change, or drop your Medicare Advantage or Part D coverage during this time.

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MAOEP) is from January 1st to March 31st. If you have an existing Medicare Advantage plan, this is the time to switch plans.

When Does Medicare Coverage Start?

If you enroll before your birthday month, your coverage will start the month you turn 65. If you enroll during your birthday month, it’ll begin the month after. Any time after that, your coverage could begin 2-3 months after you enroll.

Have Questions About Medicare Enrollment?

Our local health insurance agents are here to help!

The Four Parts of Medicare

Medicare is divided into four distinct parts, each covering different aspects of healthcare services:

Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)

Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health services.

Most people do not pay a monthly premium for Part A. If you or your spouse have made payroll contributions to Social Security for 10 or more years, you won’t pay a Part A premium. If not, you’ll pay a monthly premium, which may be higher if you enroll late.

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)

Covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and medically necessary supplies.

Everyone pays a monthly premium for Part B, even if you go with a Medicare Advantage or Medigap Plan (explained below). The cost depends on your income and when you enroll in Medicare. Set up a meeting with a AAA Minneapolis Licensed Insurance Agent to estimate your Part B monthly premium.

Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)

These are affordable, all-in-one insurance alternatives to Original Medicare (Parts A and B) that may offer additional benefits, such as vision, dental, and prescription drug coverage.

Most plans also include Plan D, Prescription Drug Coverage, but not all. Ask your AAA Minneapolis insurance agent for more information.

Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)

Helps cover the cost of prescription medications and is offered through private insurance companies approved by Medicare.

Often, Plan D will need to be supplemented to your insurance plan for full coverage.

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Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage

Original Medicare is a combination of Parts A & B (Above). This traditional government-provided coverage allows beneficiaries (that’s you) to see any doctor or provider that accepts Medicare. You’ll also need to add a Plan D, which includes Prescription Drug Coverage.

However, Original Medicare doesn’t pay for everything, and you can expect higher out-of-pocket costs without supplemental coverage. There are a variety of options to fill in those gaps.

Medicare Advantage Plans are designed to deliver benefits that aren’t covered by Original Medicare, such as dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs. Some of these plans include a Plan D.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans are another option to help cover out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. These plans are offered by private insurers and can provide extra financial protection against unexpected healthcare expenses.

Get Help Choosing a Medicare Plan That's Right for You

Our licensed, local, independent insurance agents are Medicare & health insurance experts. Call or contact us online to get help choosing the best Medicare plan for you.

Our AAA Minneapolis Licensed Insurance Agents will talk with you to understand your unique situation and help you sort through options. We’ll give you unbiased advice about which coverage options are best for you.

Contact AAA Minneapolis Independent Insurance Agency

Speak with an Insurance Agent
952-927-2518

By calling this number you will reach a licensed insurance agent.