Medicare Questions & Answers

Customers choose 724 Medicare because we are a locally trusted insurance agency dedicated to serving the Medicare needs of Western Pennsylvania. Located conveniently in Butler, PA, we offer personalized Medicare Insurance Evaluations at no cost or obligation to enroll.

Our team of licensed agents specializes in Medicare, providing expert guidance to help you navigate the complexities and find the best coverage for your unique needs. Whether you prefer to meet in person or require special accommodations, we’re here to help.

Led by our Director of Medicare, Courtney, who brings over a decade of medical and insurance experience, our agency combines deep industry knowledge with a genuine passion for helping our clients make informed decisions.

Call us at 724-276-5019 to schedule your evaluation or request a consultation through our website.

Assuming you meet the work-related eligibility requirements, you can enroll in Medicare starting 3 months before your 65th birthday, during your birthday month, and up to 3 months after (a total of 7 months surrounding your 65th birthday).

• We shop numerous different insurance companies that offer many different plans in your area to help you find the best plan at the best price. The rates we provide are the same exact rates offered by going direct to the insurance company.
• We provide annual Policy Reviews and Rate Checks to assure you’re always on the best policy for your needs with the most affordable premium.
• We service your account year-round, including solving problems with billing, eligibility and claims.
• We ease the burden on your time by doing the “legwork” for you.
• We assist with the renewal process and keep you updated on any government-level changes that can affect your coverage.

Medicare is an individual-based plan. Once your spouse reaches the eligibility age of 65, they can enroll in their own Medicare policy in the time frame stated above, as long as you have met the work-related eligibility requirements, which reflects onto your spouse.

Part “A” is typically in place assuming that you have met the work-related eligibility requirements and a paid-up benefit when you turn 65. Part “B” is not, unless you have enrolled in Social Security before age 65. If you have not filed to receive Social Security benefits, you must proactively enroll in Part “B” benefits and begin paying for them.

Yes, you can! However, you will not have any prescription drug coverage and you will face unlimited exposure to those costs due to the gaps in Original Medicare.

In addition to having a 20% coverage gap that you’re responsible for out of pocket with no maximum, you will more than likely face a “penalty fee” from Medicare. A Part B penalty can be 10% of your Part B premium for each 12-month period outside of Medicare, and up to 1% of the national average of Part D plan for each month not enrolled in Part D. Those penalties are lifetime penalties which are added on top of your monthly premium. It is vital that you are enrolled into a Medicare plan fit to your individual needs in the correct timeframe.

You have the option to keep Original Medicare Parts A and B and add a Part D plan for prescription drug coverage. With this choice, you would typically also add a Medicare Supplement Plan (A, B, D, G, K, L, M, N, or, if you were 65 before 1/1/2020, C & F). These Supplement plans help cover the 20% that Original Medicare doesn’t pay. The alternative is to choose a Medicare Advantage plan, also known as Part C. Medicare Advantage plans (HMO, PPO types) are managed care options that replace or supplement Original Medicare and often include prescription drug coverage within the plan. These are the plans often advertised with $0 or low premiums.

If your employer has 20 or more employees and you’re still working, then yes, it’s an option. At 724 Medicare, we recommend bringing in your employer benefits package so we can compare your current coverage with the potential Medicare options. This way, we can ensure you’re in the most affordable and comprehensive policy for your needs.

Credible coverage is a Medicare term that means your existing coverage is at least as good as what Medicare offers. It’s important to confirm that your employer’s plan meets this standard to avoid potential penalties when enrolling in Medicare later.

In many cases, yes, but it’s crucial that your Medicare Specialist reviews your prescription medications, primary care physician, specialists, and preferred pharmacy to ensure they’re in-network with the plan you choose. This helps prevent any disruptions in your healthcare routine.

Yes and no. Original Medicare covers up to 100 days in a nursing home, but only after a three-day hospital stay. Beyond that, Medicare does not cover long-term nursing home stays. For extended care, a long-term care insurance policy is often necessary.

Yes, but the extent of coverage depends on your plan choice. With Original Medicare, you can see any doctor in the U.S. who accepts Medicare without worrying about networks. If you have a Medicare Supplement plan, your options are even broader. Your coverage details may vary if you choose a Medicare Advantage Plan, so it’s important to review your options carefully when planning for potential cancer-related treatments.

You can sign up for Original Medicare online at SSA.gov or in person at your local Social Security office.

It depends. If you start taking Social Security benefits at age 62, you will automatically receive your Medicare card when you become eligible and can then choose a Medicare Advantage, MAPD, or Medicare Supplement plan. If you’re not taking Social Security yet, you’ll need to enroll in Medicare Parts A & B online or at your local Social Security office.

724 Medicare receives a commission from the insurance company for the policy you choose, which is standardized by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This commission is the same for all carriers and agents, ensuring my focus is solely on finding the best plan for your needs.

You can, but a Medicare agent like 724 Medicare offers specialized guidance and personalized service, treating you like family. We handle billing questions, coverage issues, annual policy reviews, and assist during qualifying life events to ensure you get the best benefits. Plus, we save you the hassle of dealing with 1-800 numbers and long wait times by being your direct point of contact with the insurance company.

No, Medicare costs vary based on factors like your taxable income, when you enroll, and whether you face penalties for late enrollment. Your specific situation will determine what you pay.

Yes and no. It’s crucial to select a Medicare plan that aligns with your needs and budget from the start. That’s why we conduct a personalized needs analysis to present you with the best options. While it is possible to switch plans, it’s much easier and less stressful to choose the right one initially.

Beware of agents that only represent one company or plan. That plan may not be the best fit for you. It’s always better to work with an agent who offers multiple options from various carriers in your area. This ensures you have the best choices available. If a better plan exists that w’re not contracted with, we’ll still recommend it and be happy to assist you in the future.