Medicare provides support to nearly 50 million people in the U.S., but for many of them, it’s coverage just doesn’t go far enough.
Thus, Medigap was born.
Medigap is a supplement to Medicare offered to recipients and allows them to purchase additional coverage not ordinarily covered, and almost one-fifth of Medicare beneficiaries have bought this type of supplemental insurance.
To qualify, you must be over the age of 65, and be a recipient of Part A and B, the most basic coverage areas. Although it varies in some states, typically there are 10 supplemental Medigap plans available for purchase.
If you’re looking for a supplemental insurance which will take over where Medicare left off, remember these five tips:
1/ Know what kind of coverage you’re looking for, and for who: Medigap can be a confusing maze to navigate, so doing research needs to be the first step in the process. Medigap policies are paid out of your pocket, and Medicare does not help pay for it. Additionally, Medigap policies are individual, meaning that two spouses would need two individual plans. Some of the coverage in Medigap includes hospice care, skilled living care, foreign travel emergency, to name a few.
2/ Know what billing schedule works best for you: Some providers have an annual billing schedule, while others are monthly. Can you afford to pay every month, or would paying once a year provide you with enough time to find the money?
3/ Compare compare compare! When it comes to Medigap, like any other kind of insurance, comparisons are key to find not just the best deal, but the best deal for you. Visit SeniorSurance.com for free quotes where you can evaluate different providers and see their prices, coverage, and even the billing date.
4/ Talk to your friends, neighbors and relatives: You are not the first person to turn 65, so take advantage of everyone else who is older than you and get their thoughts on which plans worked for them? Don’t forget to ask which plans your friends, neighbors and relatives don’t like; it can help you avoid problems down the road if you know what to expect.
5/ Beware of illegal companies: Buying Medigap is an investment in your health and future, and it’s a big decision, so it is very important to take your time in comparing quotes and avoiding high-pressure situations where you may make a decision you will regret.
For free Medigap quotes, visit SeniorSurance.com