Working with an Agent
Why do I need an insurance agent?
An insurance agent is more than just someone who sells policies—we act as your advisor, advocate, and guide through the complexities of Medicare.
Personalized Coverage Recommendations –
We find the best plan for YOU.
Expert Knowledge –
We explain Medicare in a way that makes sense.
Saves You Time & Money –
No more guessing, we do the research for you.
Help with Claims & Customer Support –
We’re here for you year-round.
Does it cost anything to work with a Medicare agent?
No Cost to You – Our services are 100% FREE! We represent multiple insurance companies, but we work for YOU, not them.
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for:
- People aged 65 and older
- Certain younger individuals with disabilities
- People with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant)
Do You Qualify?
You may qualify for Medicare if you:
✅ Are 65 or older and a U.S. citizen (or a legal resident for at least five years)
✅ Have received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months
✅ Have been diagnosed with ESRD or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS/Lou Gehrig’s disease)
What’s the difference between Medicare Parts?
Part A
Hospital Insurance –
Covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities, hospice, and home health care.
Free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years; otherwise, there is a monthly premium.
Part B
Medical Insurance –
Covers doctor visits, preventive care, outpatient services, and medical equipment.
Monthly premium based on income, plus possible deductibles and co-pays.
Part C
Medicare Advantage –
A private insurance alternative to Original Medicare, often including additional benefits like dental and vision.
Costs vary by plan and provider.
Part D
Prescription Drug Plan –
Covers prescription medications.
Costs vary by plan and provider.
Does Medicare cover dental, vision, and hearing?
Original Medicare does not cover routine dental, vision, or hearing services. However, some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may offer these benefits.
What does Medicare Not Cover?
- Long-term care (nursing homes or assisted living)
- Routine dental, vision, and hearing services (unless in a Medicare Advantage plan)
- Cosmetic procedures
- Alternative medicine (acupuncture, naturopathy, etc.)
Can I have both Medicare and Medicaid?
Yes! If you qualify for both, you’re considered dual eligible,
which may provide extra benefits such as
lower costs for prescriptions, doctor visits, and hospital stays.
Medicaid
What is it?
Medicaid is a state and federally funded program that provides health insurance for:
– Low-income individuals & families
–Pregnant women
–Elderly adults & people with disabilities
–Children through the CHIP program
Does Medicaid cover long-term care or nursing home costs?
Yes, Medicaid can cover nursing home care and home health services, but eligibility depends on income and asset limits.
How do I apply for Medicaid in Oklahoma?
You can apply through:
-The SoonerCare website (Oklahoma’s Medicaid program)
-The Health Insurance Marketplace
-Your local Department of Human Services (DHS) office
Disability
What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
SSDI provides monthly benefits to individuals who can no longer work due to a disability and have paid into Social Security through past employment.
Can I work while receiving disability benefits?
Yes, but there are income limits. Programs like Ticket to Work allow recipients to transition back to employment without losing all benefits immediately.
How do I qualify for SSDI or SSI?
– SSDI – Requires a sufficient work history and a qualifying disability.
– SSI (Supplemental Security Income) – Based on financial need, no work history required.
Medicare
Will I have to pay penalties if I don’t enroll in Medicare on time?
Yes, if you delay enrolling in Part B or Part D when first eligible, you may face late enrollment penalties that increase your monthly premiums permanently.
When can I enroll in Medicare?
You can enroll:
–Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) – When you turn 65 (3 months before and 3 months after your birthday).
–Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) – Every year from October 15 – December 7, you can change your Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plan.
–Special Enrollment Period (SEP) – If you qualify due to special circumstances (losing employer coverage, moving, etc.).
Can I switch my Medicare plan if I don’t like it?Y
Yes! You can switch your plan during Medicare Open Enrollment
(Oct 15 – Dec 7) or during Special Enrollment Periods if you qualify.
Do I need to enroll if I’m still working at 65?
It depends. If you have employer coverage, you may be able to delay Medicare
Part B without penalties. However, it’s best to consult with an agent to ensure you’re making the right choice.
Claims & Policy Questions
Can I change my insurance policy anytime?
It depends on the policy type:
Medicare Advantage & Part D Plans: Can be changed during Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15 – Dec 7).
Health Insurance: Changes can only be made during Open Enrollment or after a Qualifying Life Event (QLE) like marriage, divorce, or job loss.
Still Have Questions?
We’re Here to Help!
If you have any other questions or need personalized help, we’d love to assist you!
📞 Call Kelley: (918) 470-6468 | 📞 Call Shelly: (918) 424-2638
📧 Email Us: kbyrd.ins@hfgagents.com | sbyrd.ins@hfgagents.com
🌐 Visit Us Online: www.BEVImedicare.com
💡 Click Below to Schedule a Free Consultation!
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