Is it too early to start thinking about Medicare? (plan, supplement, coverage)

[Ron61]

In 11 months I will turn 65 years of age. At what point did you start investigating Medicare and the various plans that go along with it? As I browse the different forums and posts, there seems to be a ton of conflicting information about Medicare coverage. Should I begin asking questions now?

[reed303]

Start NOW. Plan on applying 2-3 months before turning 65. To begin getting a basic understanding of Medicare, and the choices you need to make, download the Medicare annual handbook called "Medicare and You" at https://www.medicare.gov/forms-help-...ferent-formats
You can also order a hardcopy.

It will acquaint you with all the terminology, and the major choices of plans and coverage.

Then come back here and ask about specific issues you don't understand.

Be aware also there are local resources available to you for help also. They are called "SHIPS, and are explained in the Handbook.

Take it slow. There is a lot to understand in order to make the best choices that work for you. It is not "one size fits all".

[athena53]

Definitely start now. Your friendly DMV will have sold your information to insurance agents who will pelt you with mailings and phone calls in the months before you turn 65. One even showed up on my doorstep unsolicited. It doesn't cost you extra to buy through them (Medicare pays them a commission) but some work only for particular companies, some push Medicare Advantage, some push traditional Medicare, etc. You need to know what works for you before all the "helpers" descend. I'd made my decision based on what my late husband had because that combination worked for him. I'm happy so far, but my health situation is blessedly uncomplicated.

I second the SHIP recommendation. A friend works for them and he has to be thoroughly trained and has a giant computer database he can access when people call.

[GearHeadDave]

This booklet is good to read from cover to cover.

https://www.medicare.gov/pubs/pdf/10...re-and-you.pdf

This is a good book to get.

"Get What's Yours for Medicare: Maximize Your Coverage, Minimize Your Costs"
by Philip Moeller

Once you have read those you are ready to make some decisions.

It costs a little more, but if you can afford it - traditional Medicare with supplement is usually better than Medicare Advantage. Advantage will generally restrict your health care providers. Advantage plan members are often second class citizens, because providers know that those insurance companies will fight them at every turn on every claim. There are exceptions of course.

[greatblueheron]

Originally Posted by reed303

Start NOW. Plan on applying 2-3 months before turning 65. To begin getting a basic understanding of Medicare, and the choices you need to make, download the Medicare annual handbook called "Medicare and You" at https://www.medicare.gov/forms-help-...ferent-formats
You can also order a hardcopy.

It will acquaint you with all the terminology, and the major choices of plans and coverage.

Then come back here and ask about specific issues you don't understand.

Be aware also there are local resources available to you for help also. They are called "SHIPS, and are explained in the Handbook.

Take it slow. There is a lot to understand in order to make the best choices that work for you. It is not "one size fits all".

Yes start NOW.

I bought Medicare for Dummies as I knew absolutely nothing. It did help provide the necessary basics.
Also met with SHIPP representative which also helped....

Carefully review the state site where you live regarding Medicare plans and drug plans. You can see ahead how much you'll likely pay monthly.

Study study study as you can make decisions that aren't the best for you.