Once a year, Medicare gives its nearly 65 million beneficiaries a chance to step back, review their coverage and make any changes that will help them get the best out of the federal government’s health insurance program for adults age 65 and over and people with disabilities.
But experts say too many enrollees overlook this annual opportunity to possibly save money and improve their coverage.
Medicare and Medicaid: What Is the Difference?
Medicare and Medicaid are government-backed healthcare programs that serve different groups of people and have different eligibility requirements. Some people may qualify for both programs. It’s important to understand the differences between Medicare and Medicaid and how each one works so that if you’re eligible for either or both, you can receive all the benefits offered to you.
Can You Use Your HSA For Medicare?
If you’re like many workers in the U.S., you may have been saving money in a health savings account (HSA) for years, which can be helpful should you face medical expenses during retirement.
But once you reach age 65, which is when you reach Medicare eligibility, contributing to an HSA becomes a bit more complicated. While you can use HSA funds to pay Medicare premiums, you cannot continue contributing to your HSA after enrolling in Medicare.
Costs, Coverage, and Finding the Best Medicare Part D Plan
While prescription drugs can help older adults manage various health conditions as they age, paying for medications can also put a serious strain on a person’s budget. In fact, the Health Policy Institute at Georgetown University found people ages 65 to 79 spend an average of $456 a year out of pocket on prescription drug expenses.
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States that provides coverage to individuals who are aged 65 and older, individuals with certain disabilities, and individuals with end-stage renal disease. The program was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965 and has since become an important part of the social safety net for millions of Americans.
What is Medigap Used For?
As you approach retirement age and become eligible for Medicare, you may hear the term “Medigap coverage” being used. Medigap, also known as Medicare Supplement Insurance, is a type of insurance policy that is designed to help cover the gaps in Medicare coverage. In this article, we will discuss what Medigap coverage is, how it works, and why it is important.
Who is Eligible for Medicare in 2023?
Medicare is a Federal health insurance program that was established in 1965 to provide affordable health coverage for Americans who are 65 years of age or older, as well as some younger people with certain disabilities and medical conditions. Medicare is funded through payroll taxes, premiums, and government funding, and it covers a wide range of healthcare services, including hospital care, physician services, prescription drugs, and more.
7 Reasons Why Seniors Don’t Like Medicare Advantage Plans
The biggest complaint about Medicare Advantage plans is their high out-of-pocket costs and restrictions.
Two of the most common questions we get are, “Are Medicare Advantage plans bad?”, and “What are the advantages and disadvantages of Medicare Advantage plans?” If you’re trying to figure out if the private health plan option is right for you, read on.
Three Common Misconceptions About Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period
The Annual Enrollment Period is actually an opportunity – not a burden. This is the only time of year, outside of special exceptions, when you’re permitted to switch your Medicare Advantage or Part D drug plan.
Understanding Medicare Part D – Prescription Drug Plans
Understanding prescription drug coverage can be one of the most challenging parts of Medicare. Each plan offers different levels of coverage and involves varying deductibles, premiums and copayments. Yet, the basic concept behind all Medicare Part D prescription drug plans is the same.