Resources
Medicare Checklist
Solid Medicare decisions start with solid information. Almost every mix-up we untangle traces back to a small missing detail: a drug left off a list, a specialist nobody double checked, or paperwork nobody requested from HR.
Work through this list before you compare plans. It takes about twenty minutes, and it's the same list we use when we sit down with clients across Wichita Falls.
- What to gather before comparing plans
- Deadlines that shouldn't slip past you
- Questions worth asking any agent
Step 1
Gather your documents
- Your red, white and blue Medicare card, or your Social Security confirmation letter
- Your current insurance card and plan name, if you have coverage today
- Your Annual Notice of Change letter, if a plan mailed one to you this fall
- A creditable coverage letter from an employer, TRICARE or the VA
- A rough idea of household income, in case you qualify for Extra Help
Step 2
List what you actually use
Doctors and hospital
Primary care, every specialist you see, and which system you prefer: United Regional Health Care System on Eighth Street or Kell West Regional Hospital on Kemp Boulevard.Prescriptions
Exact drug names, dosages, how often you take them, and your pharmacy. A photo of the bottles works fine.Care you expect this year
A planned surgery, ongoing physical therapy, or frequent labs should all shape which plan makes sense for you.
Step 3
Know your dates
- Your 65th birthday and the seven month Initial Enrollment Period built around it
- The date Part B starts, since that opens your six month Medigap window
- October 15 to December 7 for Annual Open Enrollment
- January 1 to March 31 if you're already on a Medicare Advantage plan
- Your last day of active employment, if you're delaying Part B
Not sure which window applies to you?
Read Turning 65 if you're just getting started, or Switch Your Plan if you're already enrolled.
Step 4
Questions to ask any agent
A good independent agent should answer every one of these without hesitation: Which companies are you appointed to sell for? Are my doctors in network on this exact plan for next year? What will each of my prescriptions cost under this plan's formulary? What's my total expected cost for the year, not just the monthly premium? What happens if I need to switch later?
If the answers feel vague, keep asking around. Read about how we work or start with the FAQs.
Free review
Checklist done? Let's compare.
Bring what you've gathered and we'll walk through the plans we represent across Wichita County, matched to your doctors and prescriptions.