Insurance Read Time: 3 min

Understanding the Basics of Medigap Policies

Medicare coverage can be a critical component for living a healthy life in retirement, as well as for maintaining your financial independence during these years. Yet, as important as it is, Medicare does not cover the full range of healthcare expenses you may experience in your golden years.

To fill the holes that exist in Medicare, Medigap insurance can be purchased by individuals over 65 to supplement Medicare.

A Medigap policy is designed to cover expenses such as copayments, coinsurance, and even deductibles—the so-called gaps in Medicare. Coinsurance is only covered after you have paid the deductible unless you select a Medigap policy that also covers the deductible.

From A to N

Medigap is private health insurance that must follow federal and state laws designed to protect you. In most states, you can only purchase standardized coverage packages, or Plans, each of which is identified by the letters A through N.

These standardized packages must offer the same basic benefits regardless of which insurance company is offering it. Cost is usually the only difference between Medigap policies with the same letter.

All insurance companies are required to offer the Plan A standardized package. Each Medigap plan option (A-N) will differ on the benefits offered and the percentage of coverage for these Medicare gaps.

To get a better understanding of what each of these plans offer, go to www.medicare.gov and click on “Health & Drug Plans” at the top of the page. Then click on “What health plans cover.”

An Early Start at 65

You must have Medicare Parts A and B to buy a Medigap policy, and the best time to buy Medigap insurance is within the first six months you are both 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. By doing this you will not need to undergo a medical underwriting. For those with existing health conditions, this enables them to buy a policy at the same price that is charged for people in good health.

A separate Medigap policy must be purchased for each spouse.

If you are nearing retirement, or have already discovered that these Medicare gaps can be expensive, it may be time to determine if a Medigap policy is right for you.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

The Financial Literacy Crisis

The Financial Literacy Crisis

Many Americans are operating their personal finances with only the barest minimum of knowledge.

Making a Charitable Contribution

Making a Charitable Contribution

There are benefits and limitations when you decide to donate stock.

Comparing Mortgage Terms

Comparing Mortgage Terms

Estimate the total cost in today's dollars of various mortgage alternatives.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Pickleball in Retirement

Learn about the latest sport to sweep the nation with this informative article.

The Cost of Medical Care

Learn about the risks of not having health insurance in this informative article.

Estate Management Checklist

Is your estate in order? This short quiz may help you assess your overall strategy.

View all articles

Paying Off a Credit Card

Enter various payment options and determine how long it may take to pay off a credit card.

How Much Home Can I Afford?

With a few simple inputs you can estimate how much of a mortgage you may be able to obtain.

What Is My Risk Tolerance?

This questionnaire will help determine your tolerance for investment risk.

View all calculators

Investment Strategies for Retirement

Investment tools and strategies that can enable you to pursue your retirement goals.

Your Cash Flow Statement

A presentation about managing money: using it, saving it, and even getting credit.

An Inside Look at Retirement Living

A number of questions and concerns need to be addressed to help you better prepare for retirement living.

View all presentations

Stay Safe with a B.O.P. At Your Back

Learn about the advantages of Business Owner Policies with this highly educational and fun animated video.

Bursting the Bubble

Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?

Questions to Consider When Buying a Vacation Home

Doing your research is key before buying a vacation home.

View all videos