Turning 65
Learn how Parts A, B, C, and D work, when to enroll, and how to avoid late penalties.
Medicare
Medicare made simple
Whether you're turning 65, retiring from work, or reviewing your plan for next year, I'll help you understand your choices and enroll in a plan that fits your doctors, prescriptions, and budget.
Who it's for
Is this right for you?
Retiring after 65
Leaving an employer plan? I'll help you time your Medicare enrollment correctly.
Already on Medicare
Plans change every year. A yearly review makes sure yours still covers your doctors and drugs.
What I help with
Your Medicare options
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
All-in-one plans that combine hospital and medical coverage, often with drug coverage and extra benefits like dental, vision, and hearing.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Works alongside Original Medicare to help pay deductibles and coinsurance, with freedom to see any doctor who accepts Medicare.
Part D prescription drug plans
Stand-alone drug coverage. I'll check your medications against each plan's list and pharmacy network.
Extra Help & dual eligibility
If you have limited income or also qualify for Medi-Cal/Medicaid, you may qualify for help with premiums and drug costs.
Common questions
Questions I hear often
When should I sign up for Medicare?
Your Initial Enrollment Period lasts seven months: the three months before the month you turn 65, your birthday month, and the three months after. If you're still working with employer coverage, your timing may be different.
Does it cost anything to work with you?
No. There is no cost to you for my help. I'm paid by the insurance company you choose.
Can I change my plan later?
Yes. You can make changes during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7) and in certain other situations.
What's the difference between Medicare Advantage and a Medicare Supplement?
Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Original Medicare with an all-in-one plan from a private insurer. These plans usually have a provider network, copays, and a yearly out-of-pocket maximum, and many include drug coverage and extras like dental and vision. A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) works alongside Original Medicare to cover deductibles and coinsurance. You can see any doctor nationwide who accepts Medicare, but you pay a monthly premium and usually buy a separate Part D drug plan. I'll compare both for your doctors, prescriptions, and budget.
What do Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D cover?
Part A is hospital insurance (inpatient stays, skilled nursing, hospice). Part B is medical insurance (doctor visits, outpatient care, lab work, preventive services). Part C is Medicare Advantage, which bundles A and B through a private plan. Part D is prescription drug coverage.
I'm still working at 65. Do I need to sign up for Medicare?
It depends on your employer coverage. If your employer has 20 or more employees, you can usually keep that coverage and delay Part B without a penalty, then sign up later during a Special Enrollment Period. If your employer has fewer than 20 employees, Medicare usually pays first, so you'll generally want to enroll on time. Many people still sign up for premium-free Part A. Let's review your situation before you decide.
Are there penalties for signing up late?
Yes. If you don't sign up for Part B when you're first eligible and don't have qualifying employer coverage, your Part B premium can go up 10% for each full 12-month period you went without it. Part D also has a late penalty if you go 63 days or more without creditable drug coverage. In most cases these penalties last as long as you have Medicare, so timing matters.
Can I keep my doctors?
With Original Medicare and a Medicare Supplement, you can see any provider in the U.S. who accepts Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans use networks, so I'll check your doctors, specialists, hospitals, and pharmacy against each plan before you enroll.
Let's talk about your plan
A free, no-pressure call. Bring your questions and I'll walk you through your options.