Annual Election Periods (AEPs) for Medicare Health Insurance for 2021 are fast approaching!
If you have a Medicare plan you have a window of opportunity that you’ll want to take advantage of.
Medicare open enrollment dates for 2021 plans: October 15th to December 7th.
If you have a Medicare Part D Drug Plan, a Medicare Part C Advantage Plan, or even a Medicare Medigap (Medicare Supplement) Plan, this is the time of year you can make changes for your 2021 plan benefits.
The Annual Election Period for your 2021 plan year choices, takes place from October 15th to December 7th, 2020. It is extremely important that you review your current plans and make any necessary changes. This is particularly important for your Prescription Drug (Part D) and Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans.
Did you get an Annual Notice of Change in the mail?
You will most likely get an Annual Notice of Change/Evidence of Coverage in the mail from your Part C, or D Plan. This gives you information about your current plan, along with any important changes for 2021. Here’s the caution: many people look at the premium price change and if it seems reasonable, choose to remain in their plan for the next year and look no further. This could be a costly mistake for many reasons.
Part C and D plans change every year. You may be in a good plan in 2020, but that same plan may not be a good choice for 2021. Other plans might give you a wider range of choice in providers, pharmacies, etc. Even your prescriptions might cost less on another plan!
Tips for choosing your 2021 Medicare plan
- Get a professional to do the heavy lifting for you! Find an Insurance Agent you trust. Remember, you pay the same amount for your plans whether you use an Agent or not.
- Understand the Donut Hole, or Coverage Gap.
- Understand your provider and pharmacy networks.
- Understand your cost sharing responsibility and your out-of-pocket maximums.
A Word on Medigap (Medicare Supplement Plans)
Medigap plans are not subject to the Annual Election Period. However, if you have a Medigap plan you may want to look at it and see if you want to make any changes. Now is also the time to move to a Medicare Part C Health plan, if you’re looking to save on premium costs.
Wherever you are in New Hampshire, call Alice Young at 603-435-7847 to discuss what your 2021 benefit options are. You will get the help and advice you deserve to make good choices for your needs.
