Enrolling in Medicare for the first time can be a stressful process. Not only will you have to learn about Medicare and apply for your Medicare card, but you will also get inundated with mailers from carriers about their plan offerings.
Additionally, with pressure to choose a plan with no opportunity to switch until the Annual Enrollment Period, it can add to the stress and cause you to procrastinate in choosing the right plan.
Instead, it is important to know what mistakes to avoid so you do not choose the wrong plan.
Waiting too long to start the process
The number one mistake you can make when enrolling in Medicare is waiting too long to get the process started. Ideally, you want Medicare to start the month to start 65.
However, you are able to start the process three months before you turn 65. This gives you enough time to get your Medicare card, notify your employer of any changes, and do your research to find the plan that is right for you.
If for some reason you do not prepare ahead of time, there is still time. You can still enroll the month you turn 65 and 3 months after you turn 65. After that, your enrollment is considered late and could be subject to penalties.
Not getting help
The transition from an ACA plan or employer plan to Medicare can be confusing. Not only are there different rules and regulations, but plan features can widely vary.
Medicare-certified brokers are here to help you find a plan that is best for you. Their services are free and they are required to complete training and pass an exam each year to advise and sell Medicare products. So, instead of working through the process, alone, why not get help?
To find a broker you can go online to Medicare Agents Hub or contact us directly.
Not checking if your doctor is in-network
It is important to confirm your doctor is in-network when enrolling in a Medicare plan. If they are not, you can risk them not being covered or paying high out-of-network costs. The best way to do this is to work with your broker directly and they can research the doctor’s network using the directory posted on the carrier website. However, it is always best to call your doctor directly, as network lists often change from year to year.
Ignoring the information that is sent to you
With a wide variety of information available about Medicare, it can be difficult to know what is worth following up with and what to throw in the trash. However, this information can be educational, even if you decide not to enroll in the plan that is advertised.
For example, you can learn a lot about different companies and their benefits and availability of plans. Also, once you contact a broker, they can also educate you about the basics of Medicare, get you a quote, and help you enroll if you find their information helpful.
Falling for scams
There are many Medicare scams out there, with the most common ones being giving asking for your Social Security Number or checking account information, offers for free medical supplies, or other promises your plan does not cover.
Unfortunately, these scams are not related to the Medicare enrollment process and can affect your finances and Medicare benefits. Instead, it is important to contact a broker or work directly with Medicare.gov to enroll in the plan of your choice. Learn more about how to avoid these scams here.
Not keeping your options open
Referrals to a plan are a great place to start when enrolling in Medicare for the first time. But, it can be easy to be set on a certain plan, especially if you have friends or family members who are happy with this coverage and refer you to the plan.
However, no plan is one size fits all, and choosing a plan should be based on your healthcare needs, zip code, and budget. Keeping your options open can help you find a plan that works for you.
In conclusion, enrolling in Medicare for the first time can be a daunting task. However, starting early, getting help, and doing your research can help to make the process go much smoother.
Contact us today for free education about Medicare and to enroll.