Preparing for Medicare can be an anxious time. Many people seek help when they are ready to apply.
Citizens Agency Minnesota will assist you ever step of the way to ensure you get the right Medicare options to fit your needs.
- If you are new to Medicare, we will guide you through the enrollment steps, timelines, and Medicare plan options.
- If you are an existing Medicare member, we will review your current Medicare plans during the fall annual enrollment period and find the most appropriate plan for you.
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people aged 65 or older - and for those who may qualify because of a disability or special health circumstance. If you have any questions regarding your eligibility, please contact our office for more information.
Individuals Turning 65
For individuals turning age 65, you will have a seven-month Initial Enrollment Period: 3 months before your 65th birthday month, your birthday month, and 3 months after your 65th birthday month to enroll in Medicare. (Note: if your birthday is on the 1st of the month, you are Medicare eligible one month sooner.)
Medicare Annual Enrollment Period
The Medicare annual enrollment period (AEP) is October 15th to December 7th each fall, and this is when existing Medicare members consider changes to their Medicare plan for the upcoming calendar year.
Delaying Medicare Enrollment
If you or your spouse are still working and you are covered by a creditable large group employer health plan (20 or more employees), you may be able to delay Medicare enrollment. If you don't have this type of coverage, enrolling in Medicare during your initial enrollment period is recommended to avoid penalties. Personal situations vary or Medicare rules may change, so please speak with a licensed Medicare professional before making final decisions.
Medicare Part A, B, C and D
- Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance) are considered Original Medicare and are available to all who are Medicare eligible. Enrollment takes place through your local social security office or online at www.SSA.gov
- Medicare Part C, also called Medicare Advantage, is a Medicare approved plan from a private company that offers an alternative to Original Medicare. These plans bundle together your Part A, Part B, and usually include Part D drug coverage. Extra benefits can be offered; however, doctor networks and prior authorizations apply. You will want to review these plans closely to understand all terms and conditions, e.g. some Advantage plans exclude Part D.
- Medicare Part D, prescription drug coverage. Offered by Medicare approved private insurance companies.
For individuals 65 years of age or older enrolling in Medicare, Citizens Agency Minnesota offers the following Medicare Health Plan options:
- Medicare Supplemental (Medigap) Plans
- Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)
- Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)
- Cost Plans (available in select counties)
Our Medicare partners include:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota
- Medica
- United Healthcare (AARP)
- Allina/Aetna
- Humana
- HealthSpring (Cigna)
- WellCare
We offer optional Ancillary Plans to cover:
- Dental/Vision
- Hospital/Accident
- Cancer
- Critical Illness
- Travel
Are you turning 65 soon, or thinking of switching plans during the annual enrollment period? Then you'll want to contact us for a free, no obligation meeting to review your options.
Citizens Agency Minnesota Medicare Agents
Denise Fischer
507-359-2067
Steve Forstner
507-359-2067
*We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 5 - 6 organizations which offer 11 -27 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.
Not affiliated with or endorsed by the government or federal Medicare program.
