It is true that there are many sources of information to help you.   You can see all plans available in your zip code at medicare.gov,  and you can find out about timing and enrollment periods.  This site is very helpful but the government will not advise you about avoiding penalties for late enrollment and other issues.  The information is there, but how do you know what to look for?  Uncle Sam will not "reach out" to warn you.  A licensed agent is your best source for help.  We provide not only complete information, we are licensed to recommend the best plan for you, and help you enroll.

 And NO, I never charge you a fee, as I am compensated by the insurance company when I enroll you in a plan.

 

What is the difference between you and an advisor I talk to at a senior center?

The state insurance department and numerous senior centers have trained advisors to help you.  They are volunteers.

They are very knowledgeable, of course, but they are not licensed agents who can actually advise you about insurance plans. Volunteers do not have a vested interest in guiding you.  Would you use a volunteer to repair your car or diagnose an illness?   Every year with no exceptions, licensed agents must pass a national exam, and pass individual carrier exams in order to sell that company's plans.  I am contracted with thirteen carriers.  That's thirteen separate exams I must pass every year in addition to the national exam.

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How can I be sure you're not steering me toward a plan where you are paid a higher commission?

When you utilize the service and expertise of a licensed agent, such as myself, you DO receive complete and unbiased advise.  All agents are paid the same commission no matter what carrier  (insurance company) is used for enrollment.   It makes no difference if you choose company A or company B, my commission is the same.  I also have an ethical duty as a licensed agent to provide complete information about ALL your options.  It's no benefit to me to steer you toward one plan over another.   The objective is to make sure the plan is the best fit for YOU.

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I already know what plan I want and see that I can self enroll.  Why shouldn't I just do that?

It is true you can enroll in a plan on your own, but if you do, you're exactly that -- on your own. 

There are many reasons to call me when it comes time to enroll. 

 The carrier representative who answers your call may be under pressure to get you to enroll.

  But, when you use a licensed sales agent to such as myself to enroll, you have an advocate.  I have an obligation to make sure you have a full understanding of your plan.  Additionally, should an issue arise and you need some extra help resolving it, you can call me, not an 800 number.  How many times will you have to tell your story as you get transferred from department to department?  As your agent, I'm allied with company reps who can personally assume the task of getting your issue resolved. 

It boils down to this:  Do you want to enroll with someone who will continually work for you, or with someone who simply answered the phone and may not have your best interests at heart?

Remember also that allowing me to help you enroll helps our local economy.   The dollars I receive in commissions are spent here in our community.

 

Do you keep in contact throughout the year?  Are those TV commercials true?

Each year, during the Annual Enrollment Period, we can review your plan together to see if it still the best fit for the coming year.   Throw away all the mailings, turn off the TV commercials and just have a meeting or a phone call with me, your licensed agent.  Avoid at all costs dialing those 800 numbers you see on TV.   The agents on the line have one objective and that is to change you to a plan they're selling with no regard as to your doctor network or prescription coverage.  They entice you with benefits available to very few people.   This tactic is classic "bait and switch".   

When you stick with me, you will always have information about every benefit you may be entitled to currently and for the coming year.

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