Medicare questions, answered plainly

About six months before you turn 65. Your Initial Enrollment Period opens three months before your birthday month, and starting early gives you time to check doctors, prescriptions and any employer coverage.

Only if you already receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits at least four months before turning 65. Otherwise you sign up through Social Security, online, by phone or at a local office.

You may have to wait for the General Enrollment Period from January 1 to March 31, and you could owe a permanent late enrollment penalty for Part B and Part D. A Special Enrollment Period may apply if you had employer coverage.

Yes. Everyone can change Advantage and Part D plans during the Annual Enrollment Period, October 15 to December 7. Advantage members also get one switch from January 1 to March 31.

Most people pay no Part A premium. The 2026 standard Part B premium is $202.90 per month (sample figure). Add any Advantage, Supplement or Part D premium on top, and higher earners pay an IRMAA surcharge.

Yes. Medicare Savings Programs through Indiana Medicaid can pay Part B premiums, and Extra Help lowers Part D costs. We screen every client for both.

Supplement premiums depend on age, ZIP code, tobacco use and the carrier's rate history. Part B and Part D premiums can include IRMAA based on income from two years earlier.

Neither is better for everyone. Advantage usually costs less each month and includes extras but uses networks. A Supplement costs more monthly but offers predictable costs and any provider that accepts Medicare. Our comparison table shows the trade-offs.

Usually yes. A low-cost plan avoids the late enrollment penalty, which lasts as long as you have Part D coverage.

Provider directories are not always current, so we check the carrier directory and, when needed, call the doctor's billing office to confirm participation for the coming year.

No. Our advisors are paid by the insurance carriers when you enroll. Your premium is the same whether you enroll with us, directly with a carrier, or through Medicare.gov.

No. We represent many major carriers in Central Indiana, but not every plan available. You can always contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE for information on all of your options.

No. If your current plan still fits, we tell you so. About a third of our fall reviews end with no change.

Of course. Many clients invite a son, daughter or caregiver to a video call or a kitchen-table meeting. With your permission, we can also speak with them directly.