medicare.gov/plan-compare 2025 | Pick your 2025 Plan from Oct. 15 – Dec. 7.
By following the below steps and carefully considering your needs, you’ll be well on your way to finding the right Medicare plan for 2025!
Here’s a breakdown of how to find the best plan for you:
1. Mark Your Calendar for Medicare Open Enrollment:
- October 15th to December 7th: This is when you can make changes to your Medicare coverage for the following year.
2. Gather Your Information:
- Medicare Number: You’ll need this to access plan information.
- List of Medications: Include dosages and how often you take them. This is crucial for comparing Part D plans.
- Doctors: If you want to keep seeing your current doctors, check if they are in the plan’s network (especially important for Medicare Advantage).
3. Explore Your Options:
- Medicare.gov: This is the official Medicare website and your best resource.
- Medicare Plan Finder: This tool lets you compare plans side-by-side, including premiums, deductibles, and coverage. You can enter your medications to see drug costs and find plans in your area.
- State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): SHIPs offer free, personalized counseling to help you understand your options. They can be incredibly helpful for navigating the complexities of Medicare. Find your local SHIP at shiptacenter.org.
4. Consider Your Needs:
- Health Status: Do you have any chronic conditions? How often do you see specialists?
- Budget: What can you afford for monthly premiums, deductibles, and co-pays?
- Travel: Do you travel frequently? Some plans offer better coverage when you’re away from home.
5. Compare Plans Carefully:
- Premiums: The monthly cost of the plan.
- Deductibles: What you pay before the plan starts to cover costs.
- Copayments/Coinsurance: Your share of the cost for services.
- Out-of-Pocket Maximum: The most you’ll pay for covered services in a year.
- Star Ratings: Medicare Advantage and Part D plans have quality ratings. Aim for plans with 4 or 5 stars.
6. Enroll in a Plan:
- Online: Through Medicare.gov
- By Phone: Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
- Mail: Contact the plan directly for a paper enrollment form.
Important Notes:
- Review your plan annually: Your needs may change, and plans can change their coverage and costs.
- Beware of scams: Never give out personal information to unsolicited callers or emails.
