Medicare Advantage
Compare plans online.
Medicare.gov tool
- Official plan finder.
- Enter your zip code.
- Add your medications.
- See covered drugs + costs.
- Free to use.
- No salesperson pressure.
What to compare
- Monthly premium.
- Copays for doctor visits.
- Prescription drug coverage.
- Network — your doctors in?
- Out-of-pocket maximum.
- Star rating (1-5).
SHIP counselors
- Free state counseling.
- Unbiased — not selling plans.
- 1-877-839-2675.
- Volunteer trained experts.
- Help compare options.
- Annual enrollment guidance.
Open enrollment
- Oct 15 - Dec 7 each year.
- Switch plans for next year.
- Review every year.
- Plans change benefits.
- Don't miss window.
- New coverage Jan 1.
Watch out for
- $0 premium can mean high copays.
- Limited networks.
- Prior auth requirements.
- Pushy sales tactics.
- Misleading TV ads.
- Read the fine print.
Senior tips
- List your doctors first.
- List medications.
- Check both before signing.
- Bring family member.
- Read all paperwork.
- Ask SHIP for second opinion.
Medicare.gov + SHIP = best combo
Use Medicare.gov plan finder to narrow options. Then call free SHIP counselor for unbiased advice. Avoid TV-ad agents who push specific plans. The right plan saves seniors $1,000-$5,000/year. Spend 1 hour comparing — pays off enormously.