The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is one of the most critical times of the year for anyone on Medicare or thinking about enrolling. It’s a window of opportunity for reviewing your current plan, making changes, or signing up for new coverage to meet your needs better.
But when does it officially start, and how long do you have to make decisions? Let’s break it down and talk about how our team at Preferred Senior Benefits can help you navigate this crucial time—whether you want to meet in person, over the phone, or via Zoom.
What Is the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)?
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, also known as AEP, is when people with Medicare can change their health and drug plans. It officially starts today, October 15, and runs through December 7. During this period, you can:
Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan or vice versa
Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
Enroll in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan
Change from one Part D plan to another
These changes will take effect on January 1, 2025, so it’s important to get everything in order to ensure you’re appropriately covered for the upcoming year.
Why Should You Review Your Medicare Plan During AEP?
Your health needs can change over a year, and so can the Medicare plans that are available to you. This is why the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period is a critical time to review your plan and make adjustments if necessary. Here are some reasons you might want to consider making changes:
New health issues: If you've developed new health conditions or need new medications, reviewing your plan and seeing if another option might provide better coverage is essential.
Plan changes: Insurance companies often adjust premiums, deductibles, and covered services. What worked for you last year might not work as well this year.
Prescription drug costs: If you’re enrolled in a Part D plan, the formulary (the list of covered medications) might have changed, affecting the price you pay for your medications.
Out-of-pocket costs: Even if your health hasn’t changed, your plan might have. Reviewing deductibles, co-pays, and other costs can help ensure you don’t end up paying more than you expect next year.
Taking the time to review your Medicare options during AEP could save you hundreds of dollars and ensure you get the coverage that best meets your needs.
How Preferred Senior Benefits Can Help
At Preferred Senior Benefits, we understand that Medicare can be confusing, especially with all the changes and options available during the Annual Enrollment Period. That’s why we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you're located in Idaho or Utah or are elsewhere looking for advice, we can guide you through the process in a way that makes it easy to understand. Here’s how we can help:
Personalized reviews: We’ll take a close look at your current plan and help you understand whether it’s still the best option for you.
Plan comparisons: We'll compare your current plan to other available options in your area to make sure you're getting the most out of your coverage.
Cost-saving options: Our goal is to find a plan that saves you money and provides the coverage you need.
We offer in-person meetings, phone consultations, and Zoom appointments, so no matter how you prefer to meet, we can accommodate your needs. This flexibility allows you to get the help you need on your terms, whether you’re at home in Boise or Salt Lake City, or anywhere else.
Don’t Miss Your Chance! Schedule a No-Cost Medicare Plan Review!
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period doesn’t last long, and with the December 7 deadline quickly approaching, it’s crucial to act now. At Preferred Senior Benefits, we specialize in helping people in Idaho and Utah get the most out of their Medicare plans. We’re here to provide expert guidance, answer your questions, and make sure you’re on the right plan for 2025.
Contact us today to schedule your no-cost Medicare plan review. Whether you prefer to meet in person, over the phone, or via Zoom, we’re ready to help you make the best decisions for your health and financial future.
About Preferred Senior Benefits in Meridian, Idaho
Medicare is a federal program that provides healthcare coverage to individuals 65 years or older. Original Medicare coverage is broken into two parts—Part A and Part B—and is accepted by nearly every doctor and hospital in the country. Medicare Part A covers inpatient or hospital stays, while Part B covers outpatient or medical care. Together, Part A and B cover about 80% of the typical healthcare costs seniors face. This leaves a few significant gaps in coverage. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and Medicare Advantage plans are policies designed to help extend coverage, lessen costs, and ultimately give beneficiaries peace of mind. If you or someone you know would like more information about how to enroll in Original Medicare or one of the Medicare Advantage plans, call now to speak with a licensed agent (208) 818-2523. We can’t wait to help you learn about your options.
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