Medicare 2017 annual Election Period begins October 15th and runs through December 7th, 2016 for January 2017 effective date.

By Ulla-Undine Merritt (Dee) National Producer Number (NPN) 8853366

Everyone on Medicare should be looking at their Notification of Change booklets that you received from your current insurance carrier in September.  This applies to Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) and Prescriptions Part D, an annual review of your policies is always highly recommended.  Medicare Advantage Plans change every year so what was the best for you last year might not be the case for the upcoming year. Working with a Broker that works with multiple insurance companies in your area makes this simple. Your insurance agent should be in contact with you at least once a year to make sure your needs haven’t changed. If they feel a new product may be better suited they should be contacting you to set up an appointment for your review. A toll free number might be convenient, but will you ever be able to reach that person again if you have questions?  A local agent is normally recommended for that exact reason.  A lot of clients want the convenience of someone coming to their home; I’d have to ask why?  Why do you want to invite a stranger into your home, if you can, wouldn’t it be best in their office.  First you will be able to meet in a public office, you will be able to see their operation, and they would have everything they need to help you in one place.   Of course there are situations that getting out of your home and meeting in an office setting can’t work for you and insurance agents understand that and should be able to to accommodate you.  I recommend my clients to  have their family members attend the enrollment meeting if possible.  It is good that they understand your choices so that if you were unable to answer for yourself in the future they would understand the process and your wishes. All of a sudden we are suddenly sick and unable to take care of our own affairs. Almost on a daily basis am I talking to a family member who is overwhelmed and many times make the wrong choices only because they didn’t know?  Keeping your family informed and knowledgeable is important. Also don’t ever be pressured into making a choice you are not comfortable with.  Tomorrow is another day (up till Dec. 7th) and you always have choices. That old saying if it doesn’t feel right or it’s too good to be true, don’t be rushed into anything.

Some people may qualify for extra help with your drug cost and not even know it. *In 2016, drug costs for most people who qualify are paying no more than $2.95 for each generic/$7.40 for each brand-name covered drug. Other people pay only a portion of their Medicare drug plan premiums and deductibles based on their income level.  In 2016, you may qualify if you have up to $17,820 in yearly income ($24,030 for a married couple) and up to $13,640 in resources ($27,250 for a married couple). www.Medicare.gov

Working with an Insurance Broker that represents multiple insurance companies can help you analyze which plan might be best for you.  Everyone is different, you should rely on a professional not just a friend or a neighbors recommendation. I always say, everyone’s DNA & finances are different so ask a professional there should be no cost for their services in helping you make the best informed decision and helping you complete the application. The insurance company compensates the agent if they sell you a policy and that is the only way they should get paid.  Our agency will be hosting complimentary seminars in Marco Island, Naples, Fort Myers and Punta Gorda, and other locations along with private & group appointments.  You can call our office to schedule your appointment now 239-362-0855.

There is a lot to know and I would recommend that you work with a licensed insurance professional that can help you through the enrollment process and explain the different insurance policies available to you in your area.
Logical Insurance Solutions
Dee Merritt
239-362-0855
www.Logicalinsurance.com
Dee@Logicalinsurance.com

To learn more or schedule an appointment contact: Logical Insurance Solutions – Dee Merritt www.Logicalinsurance.com 239-362-0855