Medicare 101: A Beginner's Guide
Everything you need to know about Medicare in one comprehensive guide.
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Medicare Education Hub
Medicare Basics & Resources
Free educational resources to help you understand Medicare and make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage.
A
Part A
Hospital Insurance
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care.
Most pay $0
B
Part B
Medical Insurance
Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, durable medical equipment, and some home health care.
~$174.70/mo (2024)
C
Part C
Medicare Advantage
An all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurers. Often includes Part D and extra benefits.
Many $0 premium plans
D
Part D
Prescription Drugs
Covers prescription medications. Available as standalone plans or included in Medicare Advantage plans.
Varies by plan
Key Enrollment Periods
Understanding when you can sign up or make changes to your Medicare coverage is critical. Missing deadlines can result in penalties.
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
7-month window around your 65th birthday
Your first chance to sign up for Medicare. Starts 3 months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
October 15 - December 7
Review and change your Medicare Advantage and Part D plans each year. Changes take effect January 1.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
January 1 - March 31
If you have Medicare Advantage, you can switch to another MA plan or return to Original Medicare during this period.
Special Enrollment Periods (SEP)
Varies by qualifying event
Special circumstances (like moving, losing employer coverage, etc.) may qualify you to enroll or make changes outside normal periods.
Educational Resources
Getting Started with Medicare
Essential information for those new to Medicare
Understanding Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D
Learn what each part covers and which ones you need.
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When to Enroll in Medicare
Key enrollment periods and deadlines you can't afford to miss.
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Comparing Your Options
Understand the differences between plan types
Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare
Compare the pros and cons to find what works best for you.
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Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans Explained
Understanding supplemental coverage options for Original Medicare.
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Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)
How to choose a drug plan that covers your medications.
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Costs & Savings
Understanding Medicare expenses and how to save
Understanding Medicare Premiums and Costs
Break down of premiums, deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket limits.
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Medicare Savings Programs
Programs that can help pay your Medicare costs if you qualify.
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Extra Help with Prescription Drug Costs
Low-income subsidy programs for Part D coverage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common Medicare questions
When should I sign up for Medicare?
Most people should sign up during their Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) - the 7-month window around their 65th birthday. If you have employer coverage, you may be able to delay enrollment without penalty.
Is Medicare free?
Part A is premium-free for most people who paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. Part B has a standard monthly premium (~$174.70 in 2024). Part D and Medicare Advantage premiums vary by plan.
What's the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?
Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65+ (and some younger people with disabilities). Medicaid is a joint federal-state program that helps with medical costs for people with limited income and resources.
Can I keep my doctor with Medicare?
With Original Medicare, you can see any doctor who accepts Medicare. With Medicare Advantage, you typically need to use in-network providers. Always verify your doctors accept your plan before enrolling.
What's the Medicare donut hole?
The 'donut hole' (coverage gap) is a temporary limit on what Part D plans cover for drugs. In 2024, you enter the gap when your total drug costs reach $5,030. You pay no more than 25% of drug costs in the gap.
Do I need supplemental insurance?
Original Medicare only covers about 80% of approved costs. Many people choose a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy to help cover the remaining costs. Medicare Advantage plans have built-in cost protections.
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