Practical tips, in-depth articles, and timely updates to help you navigate Medicare with confidence. Written by a fee-only advisor who has no financial ties to insurance companies.
If you're a military retiree turning 65, you're facing a unique situation: you must enroll in Medicare Part B to keep your TRICARE For Life benefits. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about the transition, including timelines, costs, and how TRICARE For Life works with Medicare.
Browse our latest articles covering everything from enrollment tips to plan comparisons.
What's the best Medicare plan for YOU? Learn how health, budget, and lifestyle determine your ideal coverage. See examples for different beneficiary profiles.
Choosing PlansNot sure which Medicare plan to choose? Use this 6-factor decision framework to evaluate your health, budget, and lifestyle to find your best option.
Expert HelpLooking for Medicare help in your area? Compare SHIP counselors, insurance agents, and fee-only advisors. Learn when local matters and when virtual works just as well.
BasicsNew to Medicare? This beginner's guide explains all your options: Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D. Learn the two main paths to coverage.
GuidanceGet help selecting a Medicare plan with this guide to free and paid resources. Learn about SHIP counselors, insurance agents, fee-only advisors, and online tools.
AssistanceLearn about Medicare assistance programs that help pay for premiums, deductibles, and prescriptions. Covers MSP, Extra Help, Medicaid, SPAPs, and free counseling resources.
AdviceLearn how to get truly unbiased Medicare advice. Understand the difference between agents, brokers, SHIP counselors, and fee-only advisors—and how to spot biased recommendations.
Expert HelpLearn about the different types of Medicare specialists, how they differ from general agents, and how to find someone who will put your interests first.
GuidanceLearn what Medicare counselors do, the difference between SHIP, fee-only advisors, and insurance agents, plus how to find unbiased help you can trust.
Plan ReviewLearn when and why to review your Medicare coverage. Discover how annual plan reviews can save you hundreds, find better coverage, and ensure your plan still fits your needs.
MedigapCompare all Medigap plans ranked by value. Learn why Plan G and Plan N are the top choices, plus how to decide which Medicare Supplement plan is right for your situation.
EnrollmentEverything you need to enroll in Medicare: when to sign up, your options (Original Medicare vs Medicare Advantage), step-by-step instructions, and how to avoid costly penalties.
Plan ReviewsNot sure if you have the right Medicare coverage? Learn the warning signs that you need a plan review, what a second opinion includes, and how to find unbiased Medicare advice.
Choosing PlansOverwhelmed by Medicare options? This step-by-step guide helps you compare Original Medicare, Medigap, and Medicare Advantage to find the plan that fits your needs and budget.
Medicare HelpLearn what Medicare consultants do, the difference between fee-only and commission-based advisors, and how to find trustworthy Medicare help.
Working Past 65Still employed at 65? Learn when you must enroll in Medicare, when you can delay, HSA rules, and how to avoid costly penalties.
EnrollmentAvoid permanent penalties and coverage gaps. Learn the most common Medicare enrollment mistakes and exactly how to prevent them before they cost you thousands.
Plan ChangesLearn when and how to switch from Medicare Advantage to Medigap, including Trial Rights, medical underwriting rules, and which states offer guaranteed issue protections.
Working Past 65Learn how Medicare works with employer coverage, when you can safely delay enrollment, HSA considerations, and how to avoid costly late enrollment penalties.
Medicare BasicsEverything you need to know about Part D - costs, coverage phases, the $2,000 out-of-pocket cap, enrollment periods, and how to choose the right plan for your medications.
CancerAn unbiased comparison of coverage options for cancer patients. Learn why provider choice and prior authorization rules matter when facing a cancer diagnosis.
MilitaryEverything military retirees need to know about enrolling in Medicare Part B and keeping TRICARE For Life benefits.
Our blog covers common questions, but your situation may be unique. Schedule a free consultation with a fee-only Medicare advisor to get personalized answers.
