The brief December respite from Medicare Advantage Plan TV commercials is over.
Starting January 1, Medicare Advantage insurance plans have until March 31 to convince current plan users to switch between Medicare Advantage Plan companies. For these first three months in 2021, Medicare Advantage plan users can switch either to another Medicare Advantage Plan, or return back to Original Medicare. If you return to Original Medicare, you need to also enroll in a Part D prescription plan.
MMAP Counselors can help you compare Advantage Plan and Original Medicare costs versus benefits. Some plans have higher annual medical out of pocket maximums, and charge office visit percentage- based copays instead of flat rate copays. Don’t overpay! Let MMAP help you figure it all out.
Also, those who are eligible to enroll in Part A or Part B of Medicare, who didn’t sign up when they were first eligible, may sign up during the annual General Enrollment Period, January 1-March 31. Coverage will begin July 1, and you may have to pay higher premiums enrollment after March. You may enroll through Social Security or their website. MMAP can screen your income to see if you might qualify for state assistance to help pay your Part A or Part B Premiums.
If you are still working and become Medicare eligible, check with your employer or union to find out how your workplace coverage works with Medicare. This includes federal or state employment and active-duty military service. There are also special rules for COBRA, Retirees, VA users, TRICARE, and Marketplace Health Plan users.
Your MMAP counselors can help you understand your coverage options at no charge to you! Call us at 1-800-803-7174.
