If you’re getting close to 65, Medicare is probably already on your mind. And if it isn’t, it should be. I’ve talked to hundreds of folks who waited too long to figure this out, and a missed enrollment window can cost you real money every single month for the rest of your life. That’s not a scare tactic. That’s just how the penalty works.
I’m Marc, an independent Medicare insurance broker. My job is to help you cut through the confusion and make a confident decision — and it doesn’t cost you anything to work with me. Let me break it down for you.
What Is Medicare? The Plain-English Version
Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older. It’s been around since 1965, and it’s run by the federal government. Think of it as your health coverage foundation once you leave your working years behind.
Here’s where most people get confused: Medicare isn’t one single plan. It’s a system made up of different parts, and you have to understand each piece before you can figure out what works for you. Once someone walks you through it clearly, it all makes sense. That’s exactly what we’re going to do right now.
The 4 Parts of Medicare
| Part | What It Covers | What You Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Part A — Hospital | Inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing, hospice, home health | Usually $0/mo premium if you paid Medicare taxes while working |
| Part B — Medical | Doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, medical equipment | $202.90/mo standard premium in 2026 |
| Part C — Medicare Advantage | Bundles A + B + usually D through a private insurer; may add dental, vision, hearing | $0–$100+/mo plan premium (plus Part B) |
| Part D — Prescriptions | Prescription drug coverage | Varies by plan; penalties apply if you delay enrollment |
Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap — The Route Decision
This is the fork in the road most people face at 65. Two fundamentally different approaches:
🔵 The Advantage Route
Go with a private insurer who bundles everything in one plan. Often low or zero premiums. Usually includes dental and vision. Trade-off: you work within a provider network.
🟢 The Medigap Route
Keep Original Medicare and add a supplement to cover the gaps. Higher monthly premiums, but very predictable costs and no network restrictions. See any Medicare-accepting doctor nationwide.
Medicare Enrollment Windows — Don’t Miss These
- Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): 7-month window around your 65th birthday — 3 months before, your birthday month, 3 months after.
- Special Enrollment Period (SEP): If you have qualifying employer coverage at 65, you may delay without penalty.
- General Enrollment Period (GEP): January 1–March 31 each year if you missed your IEP.
- Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): October 15–December 7 — switch plans, change Part D, or move between Advantage and Original Medicare.
Explore Your Options
Medicare Advantage
All-in-one private plans. Often $0 premium. May include dental, vision, hearing.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Supplements Original Medicare. Predictable costs. Any Medicare-accepting doctor, no network.
Life Insurance
Protect your spouse’s income in retirement. Final expense and term options — honest advice, no pressure.
Why Working With Me Costs You Nothing
I’m paid by the insurance carriers — not by my clients. Whether I spend 20 minutes or two hours with you, there’s no bill. No hidden fee. No catch. And because I’m independent, I represent dozens of plans across multiple companies. You get the full picture, not just one carrier’s options.
Not Sure Where to Start?
A free 20-minute call is all it takes to know exactly where you stand — which window you’re in, which route fits your situation, and what to do next.
Ready to talk through your options? Speak with an advisor — free, no pressure, no obligation.
Marc is a licensed independent Medicare insurance broker serving clients in Colorado and other states. Plan availability, benefits, and costs vary by location. This page is for educational purposes. Data referenced reflects 2026 CMS guidelines.