Medicare Doesn't Have to Feel Like a Foreign Language
Parts A, B, C, D. Medigap. Advantage. Enrollment windows. Penalties. It's a lot — and one wrong move costs you money every single month for the rest of your life. Let's break it down in plain English.
Book a Free Medicare ReviewThe 4 Parts of Medicare — Actually Explained
Part A: Hospital Insurance
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Most people get Part A premium-free.
Part B: Medical Insurance
Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical equipment. You pay a monthly premium.
Part C: Medicare Advantage
An all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurers. Often includes dental, vision, and drug coverage.
Part D: Drug Coverage
Prescription drug coverage. Can be added to Original Medicare or included in a Medicare Advantage plan.
Enrollment Windows — Don't Miss These
Miss a window and you pay penalties every month. Forever.
3 months before 65th birthday
Initial Enrollment Period opens
Month of 65th birthday
Peak enrollment window
3 months after 65th birthday
Initial Enrollment Period closes
Jan 1 – Mar 31 annually
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
Oct 15 – Dec 7 annually
Annual Enrollment Period — switch plans
5 Medicare Mistakes That Cost You Money
Bean has seen every one of these. Don't be the cautionary tale.
Missing your Initial Enrollment Window
You have a 7-month window around your 65th birthday. Miss it and you pay late penalties — forever.
Assuming employer coverage protects you
Small employer plans (under 20 employees) don't count as creditable coverage. You must enroll in Medicare on time.
Skipping Part D because you're healthy
If you don't enroll in drug coverage when first eligible, you'll pay a penalty every month for life.
Not comparing Medigap vs. Advantage
These are fundamentally different products. One wrong choice can cost you thousands when you're sick.
Forgetting about IRMAA surcharges
Higher income means higher premiums. If your income dropped recently, you can appeal the surcharge.
Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage — The Real Difference
Medigap (Supplement)
- Works with Original Medicare
- See any doctor who accepts Medicare — nationwide
- Predictable costs — no surprise bills
- Higher monthly premium
- No drug coverage included (add Part D)
- Best for frequent travelers or those with chronic conditions
Medicare Advantage
- Replaces Original Medicare
- Network-based — must use in-network providers
- Lower monthly premium (sometimes $0)
- Out-of-pocket costs vary widely
- Often includes dental, vision, hearing
- Prior authorizations can delay care
Bean's take: Neither is universally better. It depends on your health, your doctors, your budget, and where you live. This is exactly why a free review with Bean is worth your time.
Ready to Stop Guessing?
Bean is licensed in Utah, Idaho, and Arizona. A free Medicare review takes 30 minutes and could save you thousands.