Why the MOOP Is Important
Hey Matt, How much does it really matter to invest in a Medicare plan with a low Maximum Out-Of-Pocket? On the other hand, should I just stick with what you call Bare-with-Medicare? Charles S. Hey Charles, To answer your question, we need to explain a MOOP. This is...
What are the Different Types of Medicare Special Enrollment Periods?
Matt, I know there are different types of Special Enrollment Periods for Medicare. Can you review these for me? And what is a Special Enrollment Period, anyway? Thanks, Shirley J. Shirley, Simply put, a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) lets you make changes to your...
How Much Does Medicare Cost?
Matt, I’ve been reading information online about the cost of Medicare, but the numbers seem to be all over the place! Do you have a decent estimate on how much Medicare should cost me? Thanks for your help and information on your blogs! Benjamin J....
What Is Medicare? Can You Get Medicare Under Age 65?
Matt, We all know that Medicare is an insurance policy the government provides older folks, such as myself. However, I’ve also heard you can get Medicare if you’re under 65. Is that correct? Edward S. Hi Edward, While most Medicare applicants are...
What Does a Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan Cover?
Dearest Matt, I’ve read online about a Medicare Part D plan covering prescriptions. What else does Medicare Part D cover? Thanks for your website and information; it’s very helpful! Patricia D. Hello Patricia, Medicare Part D covers most “retail”...
How to Get Extra Help Assistance for Medicare Premiums
Hi Matt, Medicare can be expensive! I’ve heard that you can get assistance for your Medicare insurance premium payments each month. I’ve looked around online, but I can’t figure out what step to take first. Can you direct me on how to find help with the cost of...
Does IRMAA Apply to Medicare Advantage Plans?
Dear Matt, I understand IRMAA impacts both my Medicare Part B premiums, as well as my Medicare Part D costs. I turn 65 soon and am considering buying a Medicare Advantage Plan. If I buy a Medicare Part C plan (Medicare Advantage), can I avoid an IRMAA charge? Thanks,...
How Do I Drop Medicare Part B?
Dear Matt, I turn 65 in a few months but plan to keep working. How do I decline or drop Medicare Part B if I stay on my employer’s health insurance plan? I don’t need to have Medicare Part B if I have “real” insurance provided by my employer, do I? Thanks, Lucas M....
What Is the Medigap (Medicare Supplement) Birthday Rule? Can I Switch Medigap Plans around My Birthday?
What Is the Medigap (Medicare Supplement) Birthday Rule? Can I Switch Medigap Plans around My Birthday? Dear Matt, I have an AARP Medicare Supplement, which is a United Healthcare Medigap Plan G. My Medicare insurance agent has talked to me about the Medigap...
Does GoodRx work with Medicare Part D?
Dear Matt, Can I use drug discount programs like GoodRx with my Medicare Part D prescription drug benefits? Thanks, Janice B. Drug Discount Coupon Programs and How they Work GoodRx is just one of many drug discount coupon programs out there advertising savings on...
When Can I Switch Medicare Supplement Plans?
Matt, I’m retiring soon and think I’m going to skip buying a Medicare Advantage plan and purchase a Medicare Supplement plan and add a stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan to my coverage. In your book, it’s Option 2; Medicare Part D + Supplement as you...
Can I Defer Medicare Part A If I’m Still Working and Contribute to My HSA?
Dear Matt, I’m eligible for Medicare next month and plan on working through next year. I also plan to keep my employer-based health insurance the entire year. I have been participating in an employer HSA and have recently signed up for the max HSA deduction for next...