Medicare & Medicaid
Understanding Medicare parts, plans, and coverage
Navigating Medicare doesn't have to be confusing. Learn about Parts A through D, Medicare Advantage vs Medigap, and enrollment deadlines.
Common Questions About Medicare & Medicaid
Recent Medicare & Medicaid Questions
View allMedicare enrollment periods - when can I sign up and what if I miss the window?
I'm turning 65 in 4 months and feel completely overwhelmed by Medicare enrollment. There's an Initial Enrollment Period, General Enrollment Period, Special Enro…
Medicare Advantage vs Original Medicare + Medigap - which is truly better?
Turning 65 soon. Insurance agent pushing Medicare Advantage (lower premium, $0 cost) but my doctor isn't in network. My friend loves her Medigap Plan G with Ori…
Medicare Part B premium $560/month - is this an error?
Just got Medicare statement showing Part B premium of $560.40/month. Standard rate is $174.70. Why am I paying so much more? I'm retired and only make $45k/year…
Medicare Part A vs Part B vs Part D - what does each actually cover?
Just turned 64 and trying to understand Medicare before I turn 65. I see Part A, B, C, D mentioned everywhere. What does each part cover specifically? And what …
Medicare Part D donut hole - suddenly paying full price for prescriptions?
Been paying $15 copays for my meds all year. Hit some coverage gap and now paying $180/month full price. What is this 'donut hole'? When does it end? Can't affo…
Medigap vs Medicare Advantage cost comparison - which saves more money?
Medigap Plan G: $180/month + $240 Part B deductible = $2,400/year. Medicare Advantage: $0 premium but $6,500 max out-of-pocket. Which is better deal?
Medicare at 65 - do I HAVE to sign up even if I'm still working?
Turning 65 in 3 months, still working full-time with employer health insurance (company has 50+ employees). Do I need Medicare Part B now or can I delay without…
Can I keep my employer health insurance after turning 65 and getting Medicare?
My employer has 200 employees. I'm turning 65 in 8 months but plan to work until 68. Can I delay Medicare and stay on employer coverage? Is employer coverage pr…
Medicare Advantage enrollment - can I switch back to Original Medicare later?
I enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan 3 years ago because premiums were lower. Now my health has changed and I want to switch back to Original Medicare plus a…
Medicare observation status - why won't they admit me to hospital?
Been in hospital for 3 days but kept on 'observation status' not admitted. Now Medicare won't cover my rehab facility. Why does observation vs admission matter …
Medicare Part B late enrollment penalty - how bad is it and is it permanent?
I'm 68 and just realized I should have enrolled in Medicare Part B when I turned 65. I didn't because I thought I had employer coverage but it turns out it didn…
Medicare doesn't cover hearing aids - why not?
Need $5,000 hearing aids. Medicare doesn't cover hearing aids, glasses, or dental. How is this reasonable for seniors? Any way to get coverage?
Can I switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare?
Been on Medicare Advantage for 2 years. Network is too restrictive - can't see my specialists. Can I switch back to Original Medicare + Medigap? Will I have to …
Medicare Advantage prior authorization - why do I need permission for MRI?
Doctor ordered MRI for back pain. Medicare Advantage plan requires prior authorization, now waiting 2 weeks in pain. Original Medicare doesn't need pre-auth. Ca…
Medicare Advantage plan changed networks - can I switch mid-year?
My MA plan dropped my cardiologist and hospital from network. Next open enrollment is 10 months away. Can I switch plans now due to provider change?
Medicare doesn't cover dental - now I need $8k in dental work, what are my options?
Need multiple crowns and root canals, dentist quoted $8,000. Medicare doesn't cover dental at all. Can't afford this. Are there dental insurance plans for senio…
Medicare drug plan formulary - my medication isn't covered, what can I do?
Just enrolled in Medicare Part D and discovered my specialty medication ($800/month retail) is not on my plan's formulary. My doctor says there's no generic. Ca…
IRMAA reconsideration - can I appeal high-income Medicare surcharge?
Got IRMAA notice increasing Part B to $350/month based on 2023 income. I retired in 2024 and income dropped 70%. Can I appeal and provide new income proof?
Medicare MSA plan - is this the best kept secret for healthy seniors?
Just discovered Medicare MSA plans. Medicare deposits money into account, I use it for healthcare, keep unused balance. Zero premium. Why doesn't everyone do th…
IRMAA Medicare surcharge thresholds 2025 - how much extra will I pay?
My accountant says my income from 2023 (the year Medicare uses) will trigger IRMAA surcharges for 2025. I made about $115,000 as a single filer. How much extra …
Medicare & Medicaid Guides
All guidesMedicare 101: Parts A, B, C & D Explained for Beginners
Confused by Medicare? This plain-English guide explains what Parts A, B, C, and D cover, what you pay, and how to choose the right coverage.
Medicare Supplement Plans Comparison: Plan G vs Plan N vs Plan F
Detailed comparison of Medicare Supplement plans: coverage differences, premium costs, and which plan offers the best value for your situation.
Medicare Enrollment: Avoid Costly Penalties
Critical deadlines and enrollment periods for Medicare Parts A, B, and D. Missing these windows can cost you thousands.
Medicare Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage Explained
Understand Medicare Part D enrollment, costs, coverage gaps, and how to choose the right prescription drug plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Medicare Advantage vs Medigap: which is better?
Medicare Advantage (Part C) combines Parts A, B, and usually D — often with $0 premium but limited networks. Medigap has higher premiums but freedom to see any doctor nationwide.
When do I need to enroll in Medicare?
Your Initial Enrollment Period is the 7-month window around your 65th birthday. If you miss it, you'll face late enrollment penalties.
What is IRMAA and how does it affect Medicare costs?
IRMAA is an extra charge on Part B and Part D premiums for higher-income beneficiaries. It applies if your MAGI exceeds $103,000 (individual) or $206,000 (married) for 2025.
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