Turning 68 is a good time to check Medicare Supplement rates in your area. At this age with some companies you will see quite a bump in premiums.
Birthday Rule … In California you need to be aware of the “Birthday rule” with Medicare Supplement plans. You are able to switch companies each year on your birthday regardless of your health status.
On your birthday and up to 30 days after, you can enroll in a new medicare supplement plan and company. As long as you enroll in the same plan or one with less benefits. If you wish to “upgrade” you will need to answer the health questions on the new enrollment form. But a lateral move or a plan downgrade, the health section can be left blank. This is a guaranteed acceptance.
Switching Companies … If you want to change companies outside of your birthday month, simply submit the enrollment for for the plan and company of your choice and wait for their decision. Feel free to contact me, I can provide the appropriate forms and help you through the process.
Medicare Supplement Rates:
Aetna Anthem Blue Shield Health Net Mutual of Omaha
Be sure to keep your Part D Rx plan until the next annual open enrollment period which occurs each year between October 15 through December 7. The effective date for any Part D Rx changes takes effect on January 1. Click here for info.
Even though you can change your Medicare Supplement anytime of the year, Part D plans follow a different schedule. The annual open enrollment period is the easiest time to change Rx plan.
No Networks to Fuss About … Medicare Supplement plans do not have networks of doctors and hospitals. If the doctor, specialist or hospital is contracted with Medicare, your covered. Over 95% of all doctors and hospitals across the U.S.
There is no need to check company provider networks. All you need to do is call a doctors office and ask if they accept Medicare .. that’s it. If they do, you can see them, if not, that means they have completely opted out of the Medicare system and are “cash only” doctors.
MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT PLAN ELIGIBILITY:
You can apply for a Medicare Supplement plan insurance policy if you are:
- A resident of a state where the policy is offered
- Enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B
- Age 65 or over or, in some states, under age 65 with a disability and/or end stage renal disease (plan offerings and eligibility vary by state).
Plus, you may qualify for guaranteed issue into a Medicare Supplement plan, regardless of your medical history, if you meet certain criteria such as applying during your Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period.
No Cost Assistance … I work with nationally recognized insurance companies to give you the quality, affordable insurance you’re looking for. I will never spam you or sell your information. Best of all, my assistance is no cost to you.
Questions? Call or email my anytime.
John Conner
916-682-1117
john@johnconner.com
