If you’re approaching age 65 or are already receiving Medicare due to disability, you may be wondering about Medicare Supplement plans. These plans, also known as Medigap, can help you pay for some of the out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.

There are 10 standardized Medigap plans available in Texas, labeled A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N. Each plan offers a different set of benefits, so it’s important to compare plans carefully to find one that’s right for you.

When to Enroll in a Medigap Plan

The best time to enroll in a Medigap plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. This period begins the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period, you can enroll in any Medigap plan offered in your state, regardless of your health history.

If you don’t enroll during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, you may still be able to buy a Medigap plan, but you may have to answer health questions and pay higher premiums.

What to Consider When Choosing a Medigap Plan

When choosing a Medigap plan, there are a few things you’ll need to consider:

• The benefits you need: Each Medigap plan offers a different set of benefits. Make sure you choose a plan that covers the costs you’re most likely to incur.
• The premiums you’re willing to pay: Medigap premiums vary depending on the plan you choose and your age and health status.
• The availability of the plan: Not all Medigap plans are available in all areas. Make sure the plan you choose is available in your area.

Getting Help Choosing a Medigap Plan

If you’re not sure how to choose a Medigap plan, you can get help from a licensed insurance agent. An agent can help you compare plans and choose one that’s right for you.

Medicare Advantage Plans

In addition to Medigap plans, there are also Medicare Advantage plans available in Texas. Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies and they can provide all of your Medicare benefits, including Part A, Part B, and prescription drug coverage.

Medicare Advantage plans often have lower premiums than Medigap plans, but they may also have more restrictions on your choice of doctors and hospitals.

Medicare Prescription Drug Plans

If you need prescription drug coverage, you can get it through a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D). Part D plans are offered by private insurance companies and they can help you pay for your prescription drugs.

Part D plans have different premiums, copayments, and deductibles, so it’s important to compare plans carefully to find one that’s right for you.

Getting Help with Medicare

If you need help understanding Medicare or choosing a plan, you can get help from a number of sources, including:

• The Social Security Administration: You can call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to get more information about Medicare.
• Your state health insurance assistance program (SHIP): SHIPs are free programs that provide counseling and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries. You can find a SHIP in your state by visiting the SHIP Locator website.
• A licensed insurance agent: A licensed insurance agent can help you compare Medicare plans and choose one that’s right for you.

Conclusion

Medicare can be a complex program, but there are a number of resources available to help you understand your options and choose the right plan for you. If you’re approaching age 65 or are already receiving Medicare due to disability, it’s important to start planning for your Medicare coverage.