Medicare planning can help you avoid penalties and get the most out of your benefits.

It is not unusual for a local client to bring in a whole bag of Medicare mail that he has received at home and ask for our help to identify which things should be kept or tossed out.

Leaving employer coverage to transition to Medicare as your primary insurance can be overwhelming because it’s all new to you.  Never fear though; it’s a painless process when you know the proper steps to take. You can find most of the information you need about Medicare planning right here on this website.

First you need to know that the only parts of Medicare you will enroll in via the Social Security office is your Original Medicare Parts A & B. All other Parts and supplemental coverage enrollments are done outside of that, through an insurance agent or agency.

Also, if you are already taking Social Security, the government will auto-enroll in both parts of Medicare. Otherwise, you must enroll yourself.

Here is an overview of the steps you will take to get the ball rolling:

• Confirm you are eligible for Medicare
• Read about Medicare costs so that you can be prepare for what you will pay
• Apply for Medicare at your local Social Security office or online at their website
• Receive and verify your red, white and blue Medicare ID card. Does it show you are enrolled in both Part A and Part B? You absolutely need Part B if Medicare will be your primary coverage.
• Read about your coverage options: Medicare Advantage or  Medicare supplemental insurance coverage
• Learn about Part D and determine which drug plan best suits you
• Get someone on your side by working with an insurance agency like us. Our help is free and we are always available for your questions.
• Review your coverage annually to make sure you are getting the most appropriate insurance at the right price

The New to Medicare steps you will take will likely be different when you are still working. Many people work past age 65 these days, and this means there are decisions to make.

Should you keep your employer coverage and enroll in Medicare too so that it coordinates with your other insurance? Or is it more cost effective to leave that employer coverage and choose Medicare as primary insurance and add a supplement?

The answers depend on several factors, such as the size of your employer and how much you pay for your portion of that employers coverage. Visit our New to Medicare with Employer Coverage page for a rundown on your options.

If you are feeling bewildered about Medicare, there is no need to go through this on your own. Our friendly, knowledgeable, no-hassle agents can walk you through this process step by step. We start by teaching you the basics so that you understand your Original Medicare coverage.

That’s the key to deciding which kind of supplemental coverage works best for you when you are new to Medicare.

Once your policy in place, you will also have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that we are just a phone call away when you need help with how your policy works.

Best of all – our service is free! Find out how it feels to have Senior Insurance Solutions on your side. Call (414) 241-6143 or fill out the form to the right.