Learning Zone

Medicare used to coincide with receiving 100% of Social Security benefits at age 65. Now, to collect 100% of your entitled benefits, you'll need to be older than 65. If you opt to receive Social Security before or on your 65th birthday, Medicare is automatic. However, if you wait past 65 to collect Social Security, you'll need to enroll yourself.

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) begins three months before your 65th birthday (or the 1st month you have Medicare Parts A and B) and extends three months after. During this time, you can sign up for Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) and Prescription Drug Plans (Part D).

Wanting to make changes to your Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plan?

Each year, you can enroll in a new plan during the Annual Election Period (AEP), running from October 15th to December 7th. This is an opportunity to reassess your needs, coverage, and plan options, made easy with Jesse Osborne Insurance.

Are Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) available?

Yes, if you experience qualifying life events like moving or losing current insurance, you can enroll outside of the IEP or AEP.

Yes, most individuals will pay for Medicare Part B, with the base premium for 2022 set at $170.10, potentially higher based on income.

Medicare consists of four main parts: Part A covers hospitalization, Part B covers medical services, Part C offers Medicare Advantage Plans, and Part D provides prescription drug coverage.

Original Medicare can leave you with significant out-of-pocket costs and does not cover prescription drugs or have a maximum out-of-pocket limit.

Medicare Advantage plans may have premiums and fees, but many carriers offer zero premium plans with comparable or better benefits.

A Medicare agent is an independent representative who works with multiple carriers to offer unbiased guidance on Medicare plan options. They are appointed by various insurance companies, enabling them to search for the plan that best suits your individual needs and budget, without being restricted to a single carrier. Your Medicare agent can review all available options and help you find a plan that aligns closely with your requirements.

No, neither Medicare nor Medicare Advantage plans cover long-term care.

In general, Medicare does not cover routine dental care unless deemed medically necessary, such as for oral cancer or infection.