Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Senior Solutions Helping Seniors Navigate Medicare Enrollment ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://seniorsolutions.net/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Summer Safety Tips for Seniors](https://seniorsolutions.net/2026/07/13/summer-safety-tips-for-seniors/) - Summer safety tips for seniors: Learn how to stay hydrated, prevent heat exhaustion, manage medications, and stay safe in hot weather. - [Medicare Scams: What Every Senior Should Know](https://seniorsolutions.net/2026/06/24/medicare-scams-what-every-senior-should-know/) - Learn how to spot Medicare scams, avoid Medicare fraud, protect your Medicare number, and keep your personal information safe. - [Why We Do This? To Help People!](https://seniorsolutions.net/2026/05/05/why-we-do-this-a-commitment-to-help-people/) - Why We Do This: Our Commitment to People Navigating Medicare & Retirement. We look out for what is best for you, just like we would with our own parents. - [Are Social Security Benefits Taxable?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2026/04/02/are-social-security-benefits-taxable/) - Are Social Security Benefits Taxable? Many people are surprised to learn that Social Security benefits can be taxed. Reach out to us for more information. - [Seniors Are Embracing Technology](https://seniorsolutions.net/2026/03/04/seniors-are-embracing-technology/) - Seniors are embracing technology more. Check out some ways to use technology to enhance your life using telehealth, wearable devices and applications. - [Seniors & Love: Celebrating Connections](https://seniorsolutions.net/2026/02/05/seniors-love-celebrating-connections/) - Senior & Love: Celebrating Connections. This is the month of love and Valentine’s Day often focuses on young couples but don't forgot love thrives at every age. - [Be A Well-Rounded Retiree](https://seniorsolutions.net/2026/01/05/be-a-well-rounded-retiree/) - Be a well-rounded retiree. You owe it to yourself and your family. Planning takes times, but is worth it. Join us for our 2026 Retirement Toolbox classes. - [2025 Fall Recap](https://seniorsolutions.net/2025/12/16/2025-fall-recap/) - 2025 Fall Recap of our Medicare Annual Enrollment. I’ve been through many Annual Enrollment Periods, but this was one for the books. - [2026 Medicare Advantage Changes](https://seniorsolutions.net/2025/09/16/2026-medicare-advantage-changes/) - 2026 Medicare Advantage changes may affect you as a Medicare beneficiary. Make sure to reach out to your Medicare Agent to navigate these upcoming changes. - [Understanding Recent Medicare Changes](https://seniorsolutions.net/2025/08/06/understanding-recent-medicare-changes/) - Understanding Recent Medicare Changes: It is important for you to know if this affects you as a current Medicare beneficiary. - [Dental Insurance is Important for Seniors](https://seniorsolutions.net/2025/06/26/dental-insurance-is-important-for-seniors/) - Dental insurance is important for seniors and the overall health benefits may surprise you. Does having Medicare mean you have dental coverage too? - [Safe Money Options for Retirement](https://seniorsolutions.net/2025/06/05/safe-money-options-for-retirement/) - Safe money options for retirement: Senior Solutions Group helps with more than just Medicare. We have added seminars this summer to help clients in this area. - [Era of No Co-Pays in Medicare Gone?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2025/05/20/era-of-no-co-pays-in-medicare-gone/) - Era of No Co-Pays in Medicare Gone? Check out this quick blog on the history of Medicare and some of the current changes. - [The Benefits of having a Medicare Agent](https://seniorsolutions.net/2025/04/17/the-benefits-of-having-a-medicare-agent/) - The benefits of having a Medicare agent are numerous, including receiving expert guidance on navigating complex Medicare options - [Understanding Medicare OEP](https://seniorsolutions.net/2025/02/20/understanding-medicare-oep/) - Understanding Medicare OEP, Open Enrollment Period, is important. It is a yearly period from January 1 through March 31, but does not apply to all on Medicare. - [Medicare News for 2025, Key Changes](https://seniorsolutions.net/2025/02/05/medicare-news-for-2025-key-changes/) - Look here to find Medicare News for 2025, with key changes and updates. Here is a quick look at changes to your Medicare for 2025. - [Why are my Medicare Part D prescription drugs so expensive early in the year?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2022/01/01/why-are-my-medicare-part-d-prescription-drugs-so-expensive-early-in-the-year/) - Why are my Medicare Part D prescription drugs so expensive early in the year? You took the time to go over your medications in the fall open enrollment period with your agent or you used a Medicare Part D self-enrollment tool like we have on our website. Entered your medications, the dosage, and your preferred - [Medicare Part D - AVOID the penalty](https://seniorsolutions.net/2020/11/16/medicare-part-d-avoid-the-penalty/) - Avoid the mistake of having a penalty for life due to the lack of Medicare Part D (prescription) coverage. When you sign-up for your Medicare, you need to sign-up for a drug plan, even if you currently don’t take any medications. If you don’t, then later in life when you need a drug plan you - [Don't Overpay for Your Medicare](https://seniorsolutions.net/2021/03/18/dont-overpay-for-your-medicare/) - Don't overpay for your Medicare! Nobody wants to overpay for anything in life. So you find yourself talking with your friends or family and you find out they are paying less than you for their Medicare. There are many reasons this could be happening. First, are you comparing apples to apples? They may be on - [Medicare Part B Premium Decrease](https://seniorsolutions.net/2022/06/16/medicare-part-b-premium-decrease/) - Medicare Part B Premium decrease coming? Wow, we sure hope so. For those on Medicare you are more than aware of the 2022 increase that happened with Medicare Part B premiums. This was the biggest jump in history. A 15% increase in the middle of a pandemic and when everything else is going up as - [Changes to Medicare Advantage Plans 2025](https://seniorsolutions.net/2024/08/12/changes-to-medicare-advantage-plans-2025/) - Changes to Medicare Advantage Plans are coming for 2025. This can really affect you the Medicare consumer. Here are somethings to watch for. - [Choosing Medicare Plans, Ask these ?'s.](https://seniorsolutions.net/2024/06/12/choosing-medicare-plans-ask-these-s/) - Choosing Medicare plans, ask these ?'s. These questions will help you determine what kind of plans are best for you. It is not a one size fits all situation. - [Review Your Medicare Plans Annually](https://seniorsolutions.net/2024/07/12/review-your-medicare-plans-annually/) - Review your Medicare plans annually. It is very important for you to have an annual review of your plans, changes occur each year that could affect you. - [Are critical care plans a good supplement for Medicare insurance?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2024/05/23/are-critical-care-plans-a-good-supplement-for-medicare-insurance/) - Are critical care plans a good supplement for Medicare insurance? Let’s take a look at when this option is something you should research and consider? HERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS FOR YOU TO THINK ABOUT: Do you find yourself concerned about extra costs not covered by Medicare or insurance companies if you experience one of - [How Do We Get Paid?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2024/04/10/how-do-we-get-paid/) - How DO we get paid? When we meet with new clients, we walk them through the ins and outs of Medicare, how to enroll, when to enroll, and picking the most coverage for the best price. We get towards the end of the appointment and often they lean in and say “don’t mind me asking, - [2022 Medicare Part B Premium Increase Reasons](https://seniorsolutions.net/2022/01/25/2022-medicare-part-b-premium-increase-reasons/) - 2022 Medicare Part B Premium Increase Reasons Over the last few weeks we have been monitoring the situation related to the historically large Medicare Part B Standard Premium increase for 2022 from $148.50 (2021) to $170.10. This affects the vast majority of seniors on fixed incomes who are on Medicare Part B. Some reasoning for - [Need more than just Medicare A and B?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2021/02/25/do-you-need-more-than-just-medicare-a-and-b/) - Yes you need more than just Medicare A and B! Here is an example of why: Let’s say you only have original Medicare (A and B) and you fall and get hurt. You could end up using an ambulance to get to the hospital. For the ambulance cost alone you will pay 20% of that - [Medicare Advantage changes are still available](https://seniorsolutions.net/2020/12/05/medicare-advantage-changes-are-still-available/) - We are almost done with the Medicare Annual Enrollment period (last day is Dec. 7th). I know you got bombarded with ads on TV and mailers saying you only had until December 7th for changes. Often people don't know that there is still the Medicare Advantage Extended Open Enrollment Period: January 1st - March 31st. - [I'm Not Against Medicare Advantage Plans](https://seniorsolutions.net/2023/06/20/im-not-against-medicare-advantage-plans/) - I’m not against Medicare Advantage plans. I promise! I am actually pro-Medicare Advantage if it is the right fit for my clients. For some people with their health, their budget and other things they have going on in their life, this is a good solution for health care coverage. Medicare Advantage plans do have some - [Save Money by Having a Medicare Supplement Plan N](https://seniorsolutions.net/2024/02/15/save-money-by-having-a-medicare-supplement-plan-n/) - Save money by having a Medicare Supplement Plan N! Yes, it is possible in this day and age to actually save money! In the world of Medicare and insurance prices keep going up and up. How can we combat this? We encourage our clients to take a good look at the Medicare Supplement Plan N. - [What is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2023/12/14/what-is-the-medicare-advantage-open-enrollment-period/) - What is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period? There are many dates you need to remember if you are either already enrolled in Medicare or will be in the future. One lesser known period is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period that runs from January 1st through March 31st every year. Don’t confuse this with - [Do I Have to Change My Medicare Plan by December 7th?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2023/10/06/do-i-have-to-change-my-medicare-plan-by-december-7th/) - Do I Have to Change My Medicare plan by December 7th? We get a lot of calls about this very thing. Many people think they have to change their Medicare plans now. None stop advertising, as well as well meaning friends, co-workers and family members often muddy the waters around this question. They may lead - [You And Your Spouse May Need Different Medicare Plans](https://seniorsolutions.net/2023/09/05/you-and-your-spouse-may-need-different-medicare-plans/) - You and your spouse may need different Medicare plans. Shocking isn’t it? You do everything else with your spouse, you retired to hang out with them, BUT you may need different medical and / or prescription drug plans. Let us explain. If you choose to go the Medicare Supplement path for your medical, you may - [Be Careful Calling 800 Numbers for Medicare Help](https://seniorsolutions.net/2023/08/10/be-careful-calling-800-numbers-for-medicare-help/) - Be Careful Calling 800 Numbers for Medicare Help!! Do we have an 800 number for our business? Yes, but we are specifically referring to 800 numbers that then lead you to call centers. Are Medicare call centers all bad? No way! Some of them will truly help you. Our concern for Medicare beneficiaries is when - [Medicare Preparation for 2024](https://seniorsolutions.net/2023/07/19/medicare-preparation-for-2024/) - Medicare preparation for 2024 is already happening around here at Senior Solutions Group. Have you heard about people doing “Christmas in July”? That how it kind of feels for us, it’s time to get all of our ducks in a row so we are ready for the open enrollment season and Medicare 2024. You might - [Medicare Supplements Dying?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2023/05/04/medicare-supplements-dying/) - Medicare Supplements dying? It is so interesting to talk over Medicare plan options with all the people we come into contact with on a daily basis. One client hears from their neighbor that the Medicare Advantage plans are the best. Another hears from her sister that a Medicare Supplement is the best. Someone else hears - [Medicare for Washington State PEBB Retirees](https://seniorsolutions.net/2023/04/12/medicare-for-washington-state-pebb-retirees/) - Medicare for Washington State PEBB Retirees can be confusing and difficult at times. PEBB (sometimes called SEBB) stands for Public Employees Benefits Board. This usually applies to teachers, many school employees and State employees in Washington State. Your Medicare options are different than the general public. You have Washington State Retiree insurance that include Medicare - [What is the Medicare OEP?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2023/03/08/what-is-the-medicare-oep/) - What is the Medicare OEP? This is another Open Enrollment Period from January 1 through March 31st for Medicare beneficiaries. The OEP allows beneficiaries who are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan to make a one-time change. Beneficiaries can use the Medicare Open Enrollment Period to: Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another Medicare - [We Help People](https://seniorsolutions.net/2023/02/02/we-help-people/) - We help people navigate a complicated Medicare system as well as other retirement issues. Often this includes social security and pension and income planning needs. It would be easy for us to promise you smooth sailing if you use our team but it doesn’t always work that way. Our Federal Medicare system isn’t perfect and - [Medicare for 2022](https://seniorsolutions.net/2022/12/22/medicare-for-2022/) - Medicare for 2022 has been a blast for us. Is it easy? No, but we kind of think that things that are easy are not always worth it. Yes, each year holds changes for Medicare; be it Medicare Part B premium changes, carrier changes, Medicare Part D drugs that now aren’t covered under one plan, - [Is it the end of Medicare Advantage Ads?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2022/11/03/is-it-the-end-of-medicare-advantage-ads/) - Is it the end of Medicare Advantage Ads? Are you beyond sick and tired of all the endless advertisements for Medicare Advantage plans? On Oct. 19, 2022 CMS (Centers for Medicare Services) released a memo saying they are monitoring the advertisements that you are seeing over and over on TV. CMS is concerned about - [Medicare Changes for 2023](https://seniorsolutions.net/2022/10/14/medicare-changes-for-2023/) - Medicare changes for 2023 that affect you! We have the new changes for you for 2023 Medicare. In 2023, we are even going to see some price reductions! Can you believe it? The hospital deductible for Medicare will go from $1556 for 2022 to $1600 for 2023. Remember if you only have Medicare A and - [Which Choice is best for YOU for Medicare?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2022/08/29/which-choice-is-best-for-you-for-medicare/) - Which choice is best for you for Medicare? Medicare supplement or Medicare advantage plans? Let’s use the bus driver analogy while we discuss this. When you are on Medicare you have the choice of two bus drivers. You can either use Medicare or an insurance company. Options: The “Bus Driver” is regular aka Original Medicare: - [Why help with Medicare?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2022/05/05/why-help-with-medicare/) - Why help with Medicare? We recently spent some time as a team talking about our purpose here at Senior Solutions Group and the underlying foundation of our business. Why help Seniors navigate this crazy world of Medicare? Let’s get real, it changes each year and it isn’t easy to stay up on each change! Each - [Don't let your Medicare Plan lapse](https://seniorsolutions.net/2022/03/24/dont-let-your-medicare-plan-lapse/) - Don’t let your Medicare Plan lapse when there is a simple solution. It is important to us that your Medicare needs are covered. We make it our business goal to always do what is best for you. This starts with helping you look at the best plans for you. Sometimes that is a Medicare Supplement - [What Medicare Plan is best?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2022/03/11/what-medicare-plan-is-best/) - What Medicare Plan is best? We get this question all the time. Have you heard the saying “there is more than one way to skin a cat”? Well, this is true of Medicare as well. There are many factors that go into figuring out the best plan for you. There are basically two paths. Path - [Dollars Saved on Medicare can Make a Big Difference](https://seniorsolutions.net/2022/02/10/dollars-saved-on-medicare-can-make-a-big-difference/) - Dollars saved on Medicare can make a big difference for many people. Are you hearing the kind of things we are: “Everything costs more now”. “I want to take a family trip but the airline tickets are outrageous.” “Took the wife out for dinner and we spent so much.” Then into some more serious concerns - ["Oh my those Medicare Ads"](https://seniorsolutions.net/2021/11/05/oh-my-those-medicare-ads/) - “Oh my those Medicare ads!” They just seem to never stop. They are coming in the mail. Medicare ads are running when you turn the TV on. Recently, a prospective client told me she is getting non-stop phone calls about Medicare. She said she doesn’t know who to believe, what to believe and what is - [Why does Senior Solutions Group help with Medicare?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2021/06/15/why-does-senior-solutions-group-help-with-medicare/) - Why does Senior Solutions Group help with Medicare? Why work in a business that is constantly changing, fast paced, needs yearly education and is commission based? Honestly, we find great fulfillment in being able to serve and help others. Rick says this often, but it’s true, “I feel good putting my head on my pillow - [Medicare Supplement Plan G Rate Increases](https://seniorsolutions.net/2021/07/08/medicare-supplement-plan-g-rate-increases/) - Medicare supplement plan G rate increases are definitely here! So what is the solution to the ever increasing premium rates? Rate increases for plan G can cost you $20 a month, this adds up when both the husband and wife are on this plan. The solution? We strongly suggest that our clients consider a Medicare - [Be Careful with New Medicare Advantage Plans in Your Area](https://seniorsolutions.net/2021/10/07/be-careful-with-new-medicare-advantage-plans-in-your-area/) - Be careful with new Medicare Advantage Plans in your area! New plans in your area do mean more options but there is a but. Let’s start with when we would encourage you to sign-up for those new plan options. Let’s say company ABC has previously had Medicare plans in your area. They have a good - [The Medicare TV Ads Are Back](https://seniorsolutions.net/2021/09/13/the-medicare-tv-ads-are-back/) - The Medicare TV Ads are back in full force. Let’s get real, they never left! If you watch TV at all you have seen them. They will try to lure you in anyway they can using giveaways like free benefits such as limited dental coverage, hearing coverage and even partial Medicare Part B premium givebacks. - [A Must: Both A Medical & Financial Power of Attorney](https://seniorsolutions.net/2021/04/29/a-must-both-a-medical-financial-power-of-attorney/) - This isn’t always a fun topic but very necessary. We can’t stress enough how important it is to have both a medical and financial power of Attorney in place. Health Care Power of Attorney We are not giving legal advise BUT, if you have a major health crisis and you can’t act on your own - [NEW Washington State Long Term Care Tax](https://seniorsolutions.net/2021/05/26/new-washington-state-long-term-care-tax/) - There's a new Washington state Long term care tax which is in all reality an income tax, newly named the WA Cares Fund. This will affect you if you are a W2 employee working and living in Washington State. (Starts January 1, 2022.) If you are employed, there is only one way to permanently opt - [Can I Get My Medicare Part B Premium Back On My Check?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2021/05/13/can-i-get-medicare-part-b-premium-back-on-my-check/) - "Can I really get my Medicare Part B Premium back?!" That is what all the advertisements on TV keep telling us. These ads are rambling on and on about getting $144 added back on to your Social Security check. At Senior Solutions Group, we receive multiple phone calls about this weekly and honestly it isn't - [Why Use An Agent for Your Medicare?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2021/03/31/why-use-an-agent-for-your-medicare/) - Why would you need to use an agent for your Medicare? With us you are not a number, you are a client and a friend. We are always available to help you. If you go local, the best agents offer all the plans the call centers offer and more. Your agent should be looking around - [Understanding the Difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Plans](https://seniorsolutions.net/2021/02/09/understanding-the-difference-between-medicare-advantage-and-medicare-supplement-plans/) - The difference between Medicare Advantage & Supplement Plans can be confusing. Medicare Supplement Plans Medicare Supplement Plans pay whenever Medicare A and/or B pays its portion of the bill first. Often this is the hospital deductible for each hospital stay, the skilled nursing care benefit co pay, or the 20% that Medicare doesn’t cover for - [Do You Have a Medicare plan that fits your lifestyle?](https://seniorsolutions.net/2021/01/06/do-you-have-a-medicare-plan-that-fits-your-lifestyle/) - I recently had a client that emailed me, thanking me for helping them find a Medicare plan that fits their lifestyle. From the email: "Just want to say thank you for your help in making sure we had the right type of plan for our life style. We are back in (State) visiting our daughter - [Medicare help for Central Washington Seniors](https://seniorsolutions.net/2020/12/17/medicare-help-for-central-washington-seniors/) - I am Washington state raised. I grew up in the Lynnwood area and then went on to college at Central Washington University in Ellensburg. There I not only feel in love with my wife, but feel in love with the Central Washington Region. Soon after we made Yakima our home. We love the pace of - [Medicare Supplement Plans in Washington State](https://seniorsolutions.net/2020/11/28/medicare-supplement-plans-can-be-changed-all-year-long-in-washington-state/) - Medicare Supplement plans can be changed year round in Washington State. Did you know that in the state of Washington you can change your Medicare supplement plan anytime during the year? Not every state has this opportunity. Here are some possible reasons you may have for wanting to change your plan. You get a notice ## Pages - [Home](https://seniorsolutions.net/) - Senior Solutions Group is a local senior insurance agency that provides senior Medicare assistance, retirement planning & more. Call to learn more about our services! - [Videos](https://seniorsolutions.net/videos/) - Medicare 101: What You Need to Know for 2026 The Pros and Cons of Medicare Supplement Plans The Pros and Cons of Medicare Advantage Plans How to Compare and Enroll in Medicare Part D Plans on Medicare.gov in 2026 Medicare Supplement Premium Increases – How to Switch and Save Money Is Social Security Running Out? - [Understanding Medicare](https://seniorsolutions.net/understanding-medicare/) - Medicare Made SimpleMedicare can feel overwhelming, but learning the basics is the first step toward making a confident decision. These short videos will walk you through what Medicare is, how Supplement and Advantage plans work, and what to consider as you compare your options for 2026. Medicare 101: What You Need to Know for 2026 - [Virtual Medicare Workshop](https://seniorsolutions.net/virtual-medicare-workshop/) - Virtual Medicare 101 Workshop - [Beware Medicare Scams](https://seniorsolutions.net/beware-medicare-scams/) - Important Alert for Medicare Beneficiaries We Are NOT the Ones Calling YouIf you’ve recently received a call or text message from someone claiming to be from Senior Solutions Group – especially if it seemed aggressive, pushy, or completely out of the blue – please know: it wasn’t us. We are the latest target of a - [Quick Links](https://seniorsolutions.net/quick-links/) - Option 1: Sign-up for Medicare A and BOption 2: Sign-up to add Medicare Part BOption 3: Download Employer Verification FormOption 4: Download Medicare Part B ApplicationOption 5: How high income or IRMAA can affect youOption 6: Appeal IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount)Option 7: Apply for Social SecurityOption 8: Apply for Medicare Part D Extra HelpOption - [About Us](https://seniorsolutions.net/about/) - Medicare Enrollment Made Easy! Local Medicare specialists offering a FREE step-by-step process for Medicare and retirement planning.Whether you were referred to Senior Solutions by one of our great clients, saw one of our ads, or found us through a search engine, we’re happy to help you ease into the world of Medicare and retirement planning. - [Medicare Resources](https://seniorsolutions.net/medicare-resources/) - Don't stay in the dark when it comes to Medicare, reach out to Senior Solutions Group in the Yakima, WA area today to learn more! - [Insurance Plans](https://seniorsolutions.net/insurance-plans/) - Senior Solutions Group enjoys educating our clients about Medicare and helping clients save money in the process. Call us today! - [Contact Us](https://seniorsolutions.net/contact-us/) - New or current clients, we are just an email or phone call away! Sign up for our eNewsletterBrimming full of helpful tips and news regarding Medicare, our eNewsletter is free to all who sign up! #mc_embed_signup{background:#fff; false;clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; width: 600px;} /* Add your own Mailchimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in - [How to Enroll in Medicare](https://seniorsolutions.net/how-to-enroll-in-medicare/) - STEP 1: Pick Which Option Applies to You: Option 1 “I’m turning 65 and don’t or will not have employer insurance.” You qualify for your initial enrollment period for Medicare Parts A and/or B. This is a 7 month rolling window based on your birthday month. This period includes 3 months prior to the month - [Medicare Drug Plan and Medicare Advantage Plan Resources](https://seniorsolutions.net/medicare-drug-plan-and-medicare-advantage-plan-resources/) - Due to technology changes please reach out to our office directly for help with your Medicare Part D Plan – RX plan and Medicare Advantage plan enrollments. 509-494-4288 - [Summit Process](https://seniorsolutions.net/summit-process/) - Senior Solutions Group offers a step-by-step process for Medicare and retirement planning.You’ve spent years working hard and climbing the mountain toward a better life, family, health, career and finances. Now it’s time to survey your areas of greatest progress, as well as where you will need strengthening in order to make your future years more - [Client Reviews](https://seniorsolutions.net/clientreviews/) - “Rick helped my 97 year old father with a “glitch” in the system. He followed it through to the end and did not give up until it was fixed. Rick is very good at working out any details and his knowledge goes great with his patience! 5 Star Rating!” Bob L., Yakima, WA “You are - [Medicare FAQ](https://seniorsolutions.net/medicare-faq/) - AllMedicareWhat is the difference between Medicare Supplement Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans?TM2020-12-17T13:07:32-08:00What is the difference between Medicare Supplement Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans?Medicare Supplement Insurance pays whenever Medicare A and/or B pays its portion of the bill first. Often this is the hospital deductible for each hospital stay, the skilled nursing care benefit co pay, - [Medicare News](https://seniorsolutions.net/medicare-news/) - Summer Safety Tips for Seniors Staying Healthy During Hot Weather Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the sunshine, spend time with family, and get outdoors. However, hot weatherKim Churm2026-07-13T16:16:19-07:00July 13th, 2026|News|Read More Medicare Scams: What Every Senior Should Know Medicare Scams are becoming more common every year. At the same time, scammers are finding ## FAQs - [Does Medicare start on my 65th birthday?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/does-medicare-start-on-my-65th-birthday/) - Medicare usually starts on the first day of your birthday month, unless you choose to defer enrollment due to employer coverage. For example, if you were born on July 22, 1955, your Medicare can start as soon as July 1, 2020. If you wait to enroll after July 1, Medicare will start the first day - [What is the difference between Medicare Supplement Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/what-is-the-difference-between-medicare-supplement-plans-and-medicare-advantage-plans/) - Medicare Supplement Insurance pays whenever Medicare A and/or B pays its portion of the bill first. Often this is the hospital deductible for each hospital stay, the skilled nursing care benefit co pay, or the 20% that Medicare doesn’t cover for Part B expenses. Medicare Supplements work in tandem with Medicare itself. With a Medicare - [Is it required that I apply for Medicare or enroll in Medicare when I turn 65?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/is-it-required-that-i-enroll-in-medicare-when-i-turn-65/) - It depends. If you are age 65 or older and you (or your working spouse) have payed Medicare payroll taxes for at least 10 years, you are likely eligible for no cost Medicare inpatient hospital insurance (Part A). You should sign up for Medicare hospital insurance (Part A) 3 months before your 65th birthday, whether or not - [How do Medicare Advisors (Licensed Insurance Agents) get paid?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/how-do-medicare-advisors-licensed-insurance-agents-get-paid/) - Licensed agents or Brokers get paid a commission and annual renewals from the company/carrier. The Government mandates commission limits on Medicare Advantage Plans and Part D Rx plans. Individual States have limits on Medicare Supplement Commissions. There are two main types of Agents, captive and non-captive agents. Captive Agents typically can only represent one company - [Will the government contact me and let me know what to do, when to do it and how?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/will-the-government-contact-me-and-let-me-know-what-to-do-when-to-do-it-and-how/) - There is no coordinated outreach program by the government. If you are on Social Security you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare A and B effective your 65th (under age 65 if on Social Security Disability for 24 months) birthday month or the month before if you were born on the 1st of the month. - [How do I pick the best Rx (Part D) drug plan?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/how-do-i-pick-the-best-rx-part-d-drug-plan/) - Medicare.gov has a drug lookup tool and some agents also have tools to help you quickly and effectively choose the best Medicare Part D Drug plan for you. Picking the wrong plan can have major consequences. Don’t do this part “willy nilly” unless your take only inexpensive generic drugs. Even then, don’t overpay. - [How do I get started with Medicare?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/how-do-i-get-started-with-medicare/) - 4 Steps to Prepare for Medicare Enroll in Medicare Part B. If turning 65 or you are within 3 months of your birthday month, it is easiest to go to Medicare.gov and click “Apply for Medicare online”. The standard rate for Part B in 2020 is $144.60 a month. However, you may pay more or - [Do Medicare Supplement plans pay when Medicare doesn’t pay?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/do-medicare-supplement-plans-pay-when-medicare-doesnt-pay/) - No. They only pay their portion of the bill if Medicare pays its portion of the bill. Therefore, since Medicare mostly does not cover Dental, Vision, Hearing etc., neither will the Supplements, by law. You can purchase a separate Dental/Vision plan. - [Which Medicare Supplement plan is best?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/which-medicare-supplement-plan-is-best/) - It’s not a "one size fits all" answer. It depends on what state you live in, as well as different states have differing rates for the same exact plan. If you want to pay a higher premium and have less co pays (or no co pays), you can. If you want to pay the least - [Can I switch Medicare plan types?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/can-i-switch-medicare-plan-types/) - The short answer is, sometimes. During the AEP (Annual Election Period between Oct 15th and Dec 7th each year), you can change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another Medicare Advantage plan or from one Part D Drug to another Part D Drug plan. BUT….you can’t always go from a Medicare Advantage Plan to a - [Does Medicare Require a Primary Care Physician?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/does-medicare-require-a-primary-care-physician/) - Medicare doesn’t require a primary care physician and there are no referrals required to see a specialist (however the specialist may require one). As long as the provider is contracted with Medicare (most are, as well as most all hospitals), you can go to any provider that takes Medicare. On the other hand, most Medicare - [Is there a limit to how much your out of pocket costs are when you go to a doctor or need hospital care?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/is-there-a-limit-to-how-much-your-out-of-pocket-costs-are-when-you-go-to-a-doctor-or-need-hospital-care/) - There is no limit to your potential out of pocket costs if you only have Medicare Parts A and B. Medicare Advantage plans (usually HMO’s or sometimes PPO plans) will limit your financial liability especially if you go to in network providers. On the other hand, Medicare Supplement Insurance plans do not have networks and - [When can I change my Medicare plan?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/when-can-i-change-my-medicare-plan/) - This can get confusing. If you are on a Medicare Supplement Plan, you can apply for a different plan year-round, 365 days a year. However, in most states, you can be rejected if you have preexisting health conditions and if you aren’t in your initial Medicare Enrollment period. If you are on a Medicare Advantage - [Can I have employer insurance and Medicare at the same time?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/can-i-have-employer-insurance-and-medicare-at-the-same-time/) - For small companies with under 20 employees, Medicare is primary if you are age 65 or older. You will need both Part A & B because Medicare will pay first, and then your group insurance will pay second. - [When can I apply for Supplemental (Medigap) Insurance?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/when-can-i-apply-for-supplemental-medigap-insurance/) - Some companies allow you to apply 6 months prior to your 65th birthday, while others allow you to apply up to 3 months in advance. You also have a one-time grace period which lasts for the first 6 months after you have been on Medicare Part B. After that period, you will usually have to - [When can I apply for Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage for the first time?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/when-can-i-apply-for-medicare-advantage-or-medicare-part-d-prescription-drug-coverage-for-the-first-time/) - You can do this during a 7-month window. 3 months prior to your 65th birthday month, during your birthday month, and 3 months after your birthday month. If you are on Medicare Disability prior to age 65, you will have the same window period surrounding your Medicare start month. - [Does Medicare cover Dental or Vision?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/does-medicare-cover-dental-or-vision/) - The short answer is no. Medicare will only cover medically necessary dental (for example, related to a broken jaw). Medicare will not cover routine vision or glasses but will cover medically necessary eye conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts. - [Do Different Companies offer different Medicare Supplement Plans?](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq-items/do-different-companies-offer-different-medicare-supplement-plans/) - To make things easier, the federal government standardized all Medicare Supplement plans. The letter of the alphabet (A, B, C, D, F, K, L, M, N, HD F, and HD G) determine your benefits, NOT the company you select. The price companies CHARGE can vary slightly or greatly (even if it’s the same plan letter). ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://seniorsolutions.net/category/uncategorized/) - [News](https://seniorsolutions.net/category/news/) ## FAQ Categories - [Medicare](https://seniorsolutions.net/faq_category/medicare/)