Turning 65 Soon? Here Are Our Top 10 Tips for Navigating Medicare with Confidence
Are you overwhelmed by daily Medicare mailings, calls, and confusing coverage options? You’re not alone—and we’re here to help. Here are our Top 10 Tips to simplify your Medicare journey and help you make informed, confident decisions.
1. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
Talk to someone you trust who’s already on Medicare. Ask what worked for them, what challenges they faced, and if they’re happy with their current plan and agent. A coffee chat can reveal more than a pile of brochures ever will.
2. Give Yourself Plenty of Time
Start reviewing your options 8–12 weeks before your Medicare coverage begins. Medicare usually starts the first of the month you turn 65—unless your birthday is on the 1st, in which case it begins the month before.
3. Choose an Independent Agency to Help
The right agency can guide you through Medicare Advantage, Part D, and Supplemental options at no cost. Look for one that’s licensed with multiple carriers, offers ongoing support, and has a strong reputation. At Steinlage Insurance Agency, we’ve been doing this for over 70 years—and we’re licensed with all top-rated carriers in Missouri.
4. Understand Your Two Main Options
Your Medicare coverage will fall into one of two categories:
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Original Medicare + Supplement + Part D
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Medicare Advantage (Part C)
We’ll help you evaluate both paths and decide what’s best based on your health, lifestyle, and finances. Visit our website for educational articles and watch our free Medicare 101 on-demand video for a full overview.
5. If Choosing a Supplement, Ask About Rate Adjustments
Medicare Supplement premiums are based on your age at enrollment—and switching later can mean higher costs and health underwriting. Ask about rate history and financial ratings of the carrier before you commit. We know which companies have stable rates and strong reputations.
6. Review Your Drug or Medicare Advantage Plan Annually
Drug plans (Part D) and Advantage plans change every year. Use Medicare’s Plan Finder or let us do it for you—we can review your prescriptions and pharmacy in under 5 minutes. This annual review is part of our no-cost client service, especially during Open Enrollment (Oct 15–Dec 7).
7. Talk to Your Doctors First
If considering a Medicare Advantage plan, confirm your doctor and hospital are in-network. If you choose a Medicare Supplement, you can see any provider nationwide that accepts Medicare. Don’t assume—ask before you enroll.
8. Ask About Generic Drug Alternatives
Brand-name drugs can be pricey. For example, Atorvastatin (generic Lipitor) might be $0, while Crestor could cost $50. We also recommend checking resources like GoodRx or Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drugs for discounts. Drug savings are a big part of what we review annually.
9. Still Working? Medicare Might Be a Better Deal
Many employer plans are more expensive than they used to be. Compare your costs—premiums, deductibles, copays—with Medicare and a Supplement. If your employer plan costs more than $200/month, let us show you how Medicare may save you money, even if you’re still working.
10. Ask for Help—You May Qualify for Extra Assistance
If your income and assets fall below certain thresholds, you may be eligible for Extra Help or Medicaid, which can significantly lower or even eliminate costs. Apply through Social Security or contact us—we’re happy to assist you.
Bonus Tip: Stop the Spam
Tired of phone calls? Join the Do Not Call List by calling 1-888-382-1222.
Tired of the mail? Recycle it—we’ll help you sort through what actually matters.
✅ Make Medicare Easy—Call Us Today
We’ve helped thousands of clients simplify their Medicare decisions. Let us do the same for you.
📞 434 – 602- 9200
🌐 www.steinlageagency.com
