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All-in-one plan vs. any-doctor plan

Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap

An all-in-one plan (Medicare Advantage) uses the plan's list of doctors. The any-doctor plan (Original Medicare + Medigap + drug plan) lets you see any doctor who takes Medicare and costs more each month. You cannot use both at the same time.

Medigap: most complete vs. lower monthly cost

Plan G vs. Plan N

Both options help with most bills after the amount you pay first each year for Part B (doctor coverage). Most complete (Plan G) leaves very little to pay for covered care after that. Lower monthly cost (Plan N) has small fees at some visits and does not cover extra fees some doctors charge.

Turning 65: what to do and when

You have 7 months to first sign up for Medicare: 3 months before your birthday month, that month, and 3 months after. Part A is hospital coverage; Part B is doctor coverage. If you have insurance through current work, check whether you can wait to sign up for Part B.

Why your first 6 months matter for Medigap

Your protected time to buy help with Medicare bills (Medigap) lasts 6 months. It starts the month you are 65 or older and have Part B (doctor coverage). During it, insurance companies cannot turn you down or charge more because of your health. After it, most states allow health questions.

Don't skip drug coverage: the Part D late penalty

Going 63 or more days in a row without a drug plan (Part D) or other qualifying drug coverage after your sign-up time ends can add a late penalty. It increases with the months you had no coverage. You pay it for as long as you have Part D.

When you can change your plan

You can change plans October 15–December 7, with changes starting January 1. People already in an all-in-one plan (Medicare Advantage) can make one change January 1–March 31. Events such as moving or losing other coverage may allow changes at other times.