Medicare comes with a lot of questions, and that is normal. We are a local, independent agency in Kansas City. It is free to work with us, and we are here all year. If you would rather talk it through, book a free review or call (816) 307-6165.
Common questions
Does it cost anything to work with you?
No. Our help is free. The price of a plan is the same whether you sign up with us, with the insurance company, or on your own.
How do you get paid?
The insurance company pays us when you choose a plan we offer. You never pay us a fee.
Which insurance companies do you work with?
We work with many of the major Medicare insurance companies. On a call, we can tell you which ones offer plans in your ZIP code.
Can you help me if I do not live in Kansas City?
Often, yes. We are based in Kansas City and also help people in many other states by phone and video. Call us and we will tell you if we can help where you live.
Do you meet in person?
Most of our meetings are by phone or video. If you would like to meet in person, just ask and we will see what we can set up.
Can I change my plan later?
Usually, yes, at set times of year. Most Advantage and Part D changes happen during Annual Enrollment, October 15 to December 7. Supplements have their own rules. See enrollment periods, and call us first before you change anything.
What should I have ready for a review?
Your red, white and blue Medicare card, a list of your doctors, a list of your medicines with doses, and the name of your pharmacy. If you have a plan now, have that card too.
What is the difference between a Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage?
A Supplement helps pay what Original Medicare does not, and lets you see any doctor who takes Medicare. Advantage is an all-in-one plan from a private company, usually with a network and drug coverage. See the side by side table.
What is Part D?
Part D is Medicare drug coverage. You get it as a separate plan with a Supplement, or inside most Advantage plans. Each plan covers different drugs, so we check your list against each one. See Part D drug plans.
Does Medicare cover dental?
Original Medicare does not cover routine dental care like cleanings, fillings or dentures. Some Advantage plans include dental, and separate dental plans are also available. We can check if your dentist takes a plan. See dental, vision and hearing.
Do you help veterans?
Yes. We work with many veterans and their spouses. We explain how VA care, TRICARE For Life and Medicare fit together, and what the VA does not cover. See veterans and Medicare.
What is AEP?
AEP is the Annual Enrollment Period, October 15 to December 7. It is when you can join, switch or drop a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan for the next year. Plans can change their costs and networks each year, so it is a good time for a check-up.
What happens if my plan leaves my area?
Your plan will send you a letter. You get a Special Enrollment Period to choose a new plan, and you may have the right to buy certain Supplements without health questions. Call us when you get the letter.
Do I need Part B if I am still working?
It depends on the size of your employer and your coverage. With 20 or more employees, many people can wait. With fewer than 20, Medicare usually pays first and you likely need Part B. See working past 65.
Can you help my mom or dad?
Yes. With your parent's permission, you can be on the call and help with the details.
What if my doctor is not in my plan's network?
Networks change every year. Before you choose a plan, we check which of the plans we offer include your doctors and hospital. If your doctor leaves your plan, call us and we will look at your options.
Will you pressure me to sign up?
No. Most first calls are just questions and answers. If a plan you have now still fits, we will tell you so.
Do you stay in touch after I enroll?
Yes. We are here all year, not just at sign-up time. Call us with questions about a bill, a card or a letter from your plan, and we check in each fall.