Getting the most from Medicare
in South Carolina
Compare all Medicare plans including Advantage, Medigap and Prescription Drug Part D.
There are many options for Medicare plans in South Carolina.
What you need to know about Medicare's 2022 Annual Enrollment Period.
Now is the time for South Carolinians' to gather information and make decisions about their Medicare plans' and coverage for 2023. The Medicare Fall Open Enrollment begins on October 15th. You'll have through December 7th to decide if you need to keep what you have or change your Medicare Advantage or Medicare Prescription Drug plan. You can also return to Original Medicare, and if planned correctly, apply and get a Medicare Supplement plan also known as Medigap.
We encourage you to work with a licensed independent agent like us and get the best advice for your particular needs and budget.
Should you enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan?
Medicare Advantage plans are becoming more popular today and truly offer incredible benefits. There are many different options to choose from including PPO, HMO, PFFS and MSA's to name a few. Medicare Advantage is an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits and caution is paramount when deciding which plan to choose.
If you like a more comprehensive coverage option with no network restrictions, then a Medicare Supplement or Medigap plan is your best option. Top rated carries like Aetna, Anthem, Cigna, United Healthcare and Mutual of Omaha offer Medigap Plans A, B, C, D, F, G, N and options for high deductible Medigap plans also.
Medicare Supplement Plan F and Plan C.
Both Medigap Plan F and Medigap Plan C are not available to you unless you were entitled to Medicare prior to January 1, 2020. You probably heard that Plan F was the Best Medigap plan in the past, but today Plan G is almost identical and offers the exact same benefits as Plan F only you pay the annual $203 Part B deductible.
Who is Eligible for Medicare in South Carolina?
Full Medicare benefits, both Part A and Part B, are available to those who are turning age 65. However, if you are employed and have a group health insurance plan, you may not want to start your Medicare benefits. We can help you decide which coverage option will work best for you. If you are currently receiving Social Security benefits then you will be automatically enrolled in to Medicare Part A and Part B. There are certain periods in which to make the right Medicare decision and we can walk you through that process. Schedule a free phone consultation and our expert Medicare advisors will help you make the right choice.
Medicare and Retiring from your Job.
When it's time to say goodbye to your employer it's important to plan your transition into Medicare. If you're turning age 65 the transition is quite simple, however if you are older than 65 there is some consideration to be given before your Medicare starts. We can help you navigate and avoid any potential penalties you may incur.
If you are planning on staying employed and continue on the employer sponsored health plan, there is one criteria you need to be aware of. When there are less than 20 employees in your company, you must start full Medicare benefits when first eligible, usually at age 65. If there are more than 20 employees, then it's OK to either stay on the group health plan or start your full Medicare benefits.
Some employer group health insurance are considered High Deductible Health Plans, and if you are enrolled in one of these types of coverage, chances are you also have a HSA, or health savings account. The HSA offers great tax benefits, however in regards to Medicare you must stop all contributions to that account six months before your Medicare benefits start.
Medicare and Social Security Disability
in South Carolina.
There are many Medicare plans available for those who are entitled to Social Security disability benefits. These include Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplement insurance and Part D prescription drug plans. If you have received disability benefits for 24 months then you will be offered Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B. South Carolina offers two Medigap Plans under the Guaranteed Issue rules. These plans are available through the South Carolina Health Insurance Pool (SCHIP) and are administered through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of South Carolina. Choosing a Medicare Advantage plan may be a better option for you and these plans will provide additional benefits above original Medicare and provide access to the doctors and hospitals you need. We can help you decide which plan will work best for you.
We are here to help you with all your questions and concerns. If you need a quote for any Medicare insurance including Advantage, Medicare Supplement, Part D Prescription plans and all other ancillary insurance products, please call us at (800-405-4802)