Extra Benefits in 2026: Which Ones Really Matter?

Extra Benefits in 2026: Which Ones Really Matter?

Everyone talks about the “extras” — but do they really help you? Every fall, when Medicare Advantage plan updates come out, people focus on the shiny extras — grocery cards, dental coverage, gym memberships, even help paying for utilities. It all sounds great on...

Comparing Medicare Advantage Networks: HMO vs PPO in 2026

Comparing Medicare Advantage Networks: HMO vs PPO in 2026

Every year around Annual Enrollment, I hear the same concern: “If I change plans, will I still be able to see my doctor?” That’s the right question to ask — and it usually comes down to which type of Medicare Advantage plan you pick: an HMO or a PPO. The letters sound...

Q&A: Answering the Top 10 Questions from 2026 Plan Changes

Q&A: Answering the Top 10 Questions from 2026 Plan Changes

You’re not imagining it. The 2026 Medicare changes feel bigger. Every fall, people tell me the same thing: “I just got my plan notice and I have no idea what any of this means.” If that’s you, you’re not alone. Medicare plans change every year — sometimes a little,...

How to Switch from Medicare Advantage to Medigap in 2026

How to Switch from Medicare Advantage to Medigap in 2026

Thinking about switching back to Medigap? You’re not alone. Every year, I talk to people who say the same thing: “I thought Medicare Advantage would save me money — but now I’m not so sure.” Maybe your out-of-pocket costs are adding up, or you’re tired of network...

Special Enrollment Periods After a Plan Termination or SAR

Special Enrollment Periods After a Plan Termination or SAR

When your Medicare plan ends, you’re not stuck. Imagine checking your mail in October and seeing a letter that says your Medicare plan won’t be offered next year. It’s confusing, stressful, and your first thought might be: “Am I losing my coverage?” The good news is —...

Star Ratings 2026: How to Use Them When Comparing Medicare Plans

Star Ratings 2026: How to Use Them When Comparing Medicare Plans

Every fall, people start seeing stars — literally. “My plan has 5 stars!” “This one only has 3.5!” But most folks aren’t exactly sure what those Medicare Star Ratings actually tell them. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should pick a plan just because it has more...

Exposing Medicare Scams: The 2026 Tricks You Need to Know

Exposing Medicare Scams: The 2026 Tricks You Need to Know

Let’s get to what you actually care about: Is someone trying to hijack your Medicare, your money, or your identity? During AEP the noise gets loud—calls, texts, door-knocks—and scammers hide inside that chaos. This guide shows you the exact playbook they’re using for...

All the Hidden Costs of Medicare (and How to Avoid Them)

All the Hidden Costs of Medicare (and How to Avoid Them)

You care about one thing: “Am I going to pay more next year?” Maybe your premium looks the same and you got a “nothing’s changing” letter. Reality check: costs often move somewhere else—in your out-of-pocket limit, drug tiers, specialist visits, extras, or networks....

Out-of-Pocket Maximums in 2026: What They Cover (and Don’t)

Out-of-Pocket Maximums in 2026: What They Cover (and Don’t)

If you’ve ever said, “I picked a plan with a $0 premium, so I’m covered,” you’re not alone — but you’re not exactly right, either. The truth is, your premium is just one piece of the puzzle. What really matters when something major happens — a hospital stay, surgery,...

Your AEP Game Plan: How to Review Plans Without Getting Overwhelmed

Your AEP Game Plan: How to Review Plans Without Getting Overwhelmed

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is your once-a-year chance to review your Medicare coverage and make it work for you. Will your doctor still be in-network next year? Will your medications cost more? If you skip the review, you could wake up to surprises. Here’s how...

2026 AEP: Should You Switch Your Medicare Plan?

2026 AEP: Should You Switch Your Medicare Plan?

If you’re wondering, “Will my plan change next year? Will my doctors stay in-network? Am I going to pay more?” — you’re not alone. AEP is noisy on purpose. Mailers, commercials, and phone calls all say “switch now.” Truth: most people don’t need to switch. Also true:...

Your Medicare Plan Checklist Before Oct. 15

Your Medicare Plan Checklist Before Oct. 15

Don’t wait until it’s too late to review your Medicare plan – and this Medicare plan checklist will help you out. Every year, people tell me the same thing: “I meant to look at my plan earlier.” Then it’s mid-November, call centers are jammed, and they’re stuck...

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