Local business helps seniors find the right Medicare plan
At the Ahrens Benefits Company, we believe in caring for others as we do our own. We focus on finding the Medicare plan that will best fit the needs of each person we meet. We listen intently to understand your situation and your unique challenges, and we explain your options clearly, without industry jargon. With the Ahrens Benefits Company you get straightforward, unbiased guidance. That’s the way we do business. Helping you choose the right Medicare coverage is our forte. We will give you personalized Medicare counseling and then act as your advocate throughout the year.
Who Is Eligible for Medicare?
Generally, Medicare is available for people age 65 or older, younger people with disabilities and people with end stage renal disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant). You are eligible for premium-free Part A if you are age 65 or older and you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
While most people do not have to pay a premium for Part A, the majority of people will have to pay for Part B.
When Do I Sign Up For Medicare? You’re first eligible to sign up for Medicare three months before you turn 65 or earlier if you are disabled. Generally, if you have job-based health insurance through your (or your spouse’s) current job, you don’t have to sign up for Medicare while you (or your spouse) are still actively working.
• If your employer has less than 20 employees you will need to sign up for Medicare at age 65.
• If you have COBRA coverage: Sign up for Medicare when you turn 65 to avoid gaps in coverage and a monthly Part B late enrollment penalty. If you have COBRA before signing up for Medicare, your COBRA will probably end once you sign up.
How do I sign up for Medicare?
During the pandemic, the Social Security offices have remained closed. The easiest way to sign up for Medicare is to do it online at either www.SSA.Gov or at www.Medicare.gov. It’s best to apply at least two months before needing Medicare to begin. Medicare effective dates are always the first of a month. Processing has been slow. You will need your government Medicare card before you can sign up for the additional private coverage you may want. Plan ahead!
What will Medicare Cost?
In 2022, Part B currently costs $170.10/month if your individual income in 2020 was $91,000 or less, or if married was $182,000 or less. Those with higher incomes will pay an income-related adjustment. For most people, Part A is free. There is also an income-related adjustment for Part D. Social Security lets high income earners know what they will pay.
In addition to government Medicare, costs for private coverage range from $0/month upwards of $400/month. To sign up for additional coverage, people must first be enrolled in Part B.
What are the parts of Medicare?
There are four parts of Medicare: Part A provides inpatient/hospital coverage; Part B provides outpatient/medical coverage; Part C offers an alternate way to receive your Medicare benefits called Medicare Advantage Plans: Part D provides prescription drug coverage.
What are my choices for Medicare coverage?
There are two main ways to get your Medicare coverage. Original Government Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans. With original Medicare, people can also choose to add a Supplement Plan and a Part D plan offered through private insurance companies.
The Ahrens Benefits Company currently offers Medicare Supplement plans, Part D Prescription Drug Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans from all the insurance companies available in your area.
585-349-3337 • 2800 Dewey Ave, Rochester, NY 14616
www.ahrensbenefitsco.com • There is no charge for our services.