Medicare Benefits

Are You New To Medicare?

When it comes to Medicare, knowledge is power, and we are here to help you get started the right way so you can continue enjoying your best life. We invite you to begin your medicare journey by registering for our Medicare 101 webinar.

on Medicare Wanting to Switch plans?

Sorting through the details to choose the right plan can feel confusing and stressful, but we are here to help. Simply complete an information request form and we will reach out to you directly.

Information Request Form

Medicare Enrollment periods

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

This is your very first chance to sign up for Medicare.
It lasts 7 months: the 3 months before your 65th birthday, your birthday month, and the 3 months after.
There are penalty fees for late enrollment.

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

Runs every year from October 15 to December 7.
During this time, you can:
- Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan.
- Switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare.
- Join, drop, or change a Part D prescription drug plan.
Any changes take effect January 1 of the following year.

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP)

Runs January 1 to March 31 each year.
If you already have a Medicare Advantage plan, you can:
- Switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan.
- Drop your Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare (with the option to add Part D).
You cannot switch from Original Medicare into Advantage during this period.

Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)

Certain life events allow you to make changes outside the standard windows. Examples include:
- Moving out of your plan’s service area.
- Losing employer or union coverage.
- Qualifying for Medicaid or Extra Help.
The timing and rules depend on your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at info@spbbusinesssolutions.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

WHAT IS MEDICARE?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program designed for people age 65 and older that have worked a minimum of 10 years, and individuals of any age with disabilities. Medicare helps to cover costs such as hospital stays, doctor visits, and prescription drugs. To avoid penalty fees, you must enroll at age 65. There are four parts to Medicare, and you have two options for coverage: Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage.

Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage?

Original Medicare (Parts A & B):

Run by the federal government.
Lets you see any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare.
Covers hospital stays, doctor visits, preventive care, and outpatient services.
Prescription drugs are not included — you must add a separate Part D plan.

Medicare Advantage (Part C):

Offered by private insurers approved by Medicare.
Combines Part A and Part B, and most plans also include Part D (drug coverage).
Often provides extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs.
Usually requires you to use doctors and hospitals within the plan’s network.

What are the 4 Parts of Medicare?

Part A – Hospital Insurance: Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care.
Part B – Medical Insurance: Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment.
Part C – Medicare Advantage: Private plans that bundle Part A and Part B, often with Part D and extra benefits.
Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage: Helps pay for prescription medications through private plans approved by Medicare.

Do You Have to Do This Alone?

Medicare can feel overwhelming, but that is where we come in. As Senior Benefits Consultants, we help you navigate your options, not only during your initial enrollment or when switching plans, but also with year round support. We stay in consistent contact to make sure your coverage continues to meet your needs and that you feel confident every step of the way.