Question 1

What's the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage?

Accepted Answer

Original Medicare is the federal fee-for-service program (Parts A and B) with broad provider access and no out-of-pocket cap. Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare with a private plan that bundles coverage, usually includes Part D, uses networks, and adds an annual out-of-pocket maximum.

Question 2

What is a Medigap plan?

Accepted Answer

A Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan is private insurance sold by letter (A through N) that helps pay Original Medicare cost-sharing such as coinsurance, deductibles, and copays. Plans are standardized by federal law in most states, the same letter carries the same benefits regardless of insurer.

Question 3

Which Medigap plan is best for new Medicare beneficiaries?

Accepted Answer

Plan G and Plan N are the most popular comprehensive Medigap plans for people newly eligible for Medicare. Plan G covers nearly everything Original Medicare doesn't (except the small Part B deductible). Plan N has small copays and a lower premium. Plan F is the most comprehensive but isn't available to new beneficiaries.

Question 4

Can I have Medigap and Medicare Advantage at the same time?

Accepted Answer

No. Medigap works alongside Original Medicare and generally cannot be used with a Medicare Advantage plan. Paying for both is not allowed.

Question 5

Does Medigap cover prescription drugs?

Accepted Answer

No. Medigap plans sold after January 1, 2006 do not cover outpatient prescriptions. You need a standalone Part D plan (or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage) for prescriptions.

Question 6

When can I enroll in Medicare?

Accepted Answer

Your Initial Enrollment Period spans seven months around your 65th birthday. Other windows include the General Enrollment Period (January to March), the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7), and Special Enrollment Periods triggered by qualifying life events.

Question 7

What is the Part B late enrollment penalty?

Accepted Answer

If you delay Part B without credible coverage, you may pay a 10% premium surcharge for each full 12-month period you were eligible but not enrolled. The penalty is permanent.

Question 8

What is the Part D late enrollment penalty?

Accepted Answer

Going 63 days or more without credible drug coverage after your Initial Enrollment Period can trigger a permanent late enrollment penalty added to your monthly Part D premium.

Question 9

What is IRMAA?

Accepted Answer

IRMAA stands for Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount. Higher-income beneficiaries pay an additional amount on top of Part B and Part D premiums, based on income from two years prior.

Question 10

Can I switch Medicare plans after I enroll?

Accepted Answer

Yes, during allowed enrollment periods. Medigap can be changed any time of year but new coverage may require medical underwriting outside guaranteed issue situations.

Question 11

Does Medicare cover me when I travel abroad?

Accepted Answer

Original Medicare generally does not cover care outside the U.S. Certain Medigap plans (C, D, F, G, M, N) include limited foreign travel emergency benefits, paying 80% of emergency care after a deductible, up to a lifetime limit.

Question 12

How do I find Florida-specific help with Medicare?

Accepted Answer

In Florida, the SHINE program (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) provides free Medicare counseling. A licensed agent can also help compare plans available in your county at no cost or obligation.

Answers to the Medicare questions people ask most.

Medicare frequently asked questions

Speak with an independent licensed Florida insurance agent about Medicare Supplement