Medicare Made Simple
Turning 65 is a milestone – and Medicare is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. We guide you through every option with no pressure and no gaps in coverage.
Navigating Medicare Doesn't Have to Be Confusing
Medicare comes with dozens of plans, enrollment windows, and confusing acronyms. Margot Kast has helped hundreds of clients make this transition smoothly – ensuring they have the right coverage from day one and aren’t paying more than they need to.
Whether you’re approaching 65, retiring early, or still working and unsure when to sign up, we’ll explain all your options and build a personalized Medicare strategy that makes sense for your health and budget.
- Free Medicare plan comparisons from all major carriers
- Enrollment timing guidance - avoid late penalties
- Seamless transitions with zero coverage gaps
- Annual review to ensure your plan is still the best fit
- Help understanding your Medicare.gov account
Understanding the Parts of Medicare
Medicare is divided into parts. Understanding each one helps you build the right coverage combination.
Medicare Part A
Hospital Insurance. Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health services. Most people pay no premium for Part A.
Medicare Part B
Medical Insurance. Covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and some medical equipment. There is a standard monthly premium for Part B.
Medicare Part C (Advantage)
Medicare Advantage. An all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurers. Often includes Part D and may include dental, vision, and hearing coverage.
Medicare Part D
Prescription Drug Coverage. Standalone drug plans you add to Original Medicare. We compare every Part D plan available to find the lowest cost for your specific medications.
Medigap Supplements
Supplemental Insurance. Fills the gaps left by Original Medicare - covering copays, coinsurance, and deductibles. We compare all standardized Medigap plans (A through N).
Special Needs Plans (SNP)
Tailored Advantage Plans. Designed for individuals with specific chronic conditions or who are dual-eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid.
Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement
This is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Here’s a plain-language comparison.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
- Often $0 or low monthly premium
- May include dental, vision, hearing
- All-in-one convenience
- Network restrictions (HMO/PPO)
- May require referrals
- Prior authorization for some services
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
- See any Medicare-accepting doctor
- Predictable, low out-of-pocket costs
- No network restrictions nationwide
- Higher monthly premium
- Add Part D separately
- No extra benefits (dental/vision)
The right choice depends on your health, finances, travel habits, and how you use healthcare. We’ll walk through both options with you in detail.
Medicare Part D Drug Plan Comparisons
Prescription drug costs can vary dramatically from plan to plan. A medication that costs /month on one plan might cost /month on another. We use Medicare.gov’s official tools to compare every Part D plan available in your area.
We look at your exact medications, your preferred pharmacy, and your annual cost – not just the monthly premium – to find the plan that truly saves you the most money.
- Side-by-side plan comparison using Medicare.gov
- Analysis of your specific drug list (formulary check)
- Preferred pharmacy network review
- Total annual cost analysis (premium + copays)
- Annual review at every open enrollment
Medicare Enrollment Windows
Enrolling outside of your designated window can result in permanent late-enrollment penalties. Let us guide you to avoid costly mistakes.
Initial Enrollment Period
A 7-month window centered around your 65th birthday (3 months before, the month of, 3 months after). The most important enrollment window.
Annual Enrollment Period
October 15 - December 7 each year. During this window you can switch between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare, or change your Part D plan.
Still Working at 65?
If you're covered by a qualifying employer plan, you may be able to delay Medicare without penalty. We'll help you understand exactly when to make the switch.
Special Enrollment Periods
Certain life events - like losing employer coverage - trigger an SEP that allows you to enroll outside of standard windows without penalty.
Medicare Questions & Answers
We recommend starting 3-6 months before your 65th birthday so you have time to understand your options without feeling rushed. Contact us any time – even earlier is better.
If you choose Original Medicare with a Medigap supplement, yes – you’ll add a standalone Part D drug plan. If you choose Medicare Advantage, many plans include drug coverage (MAPD plans).
No. Like all of our services, Medicare consultation and enrollment assistance is completely free to you. Our compensation comes from the insurance carrier – the same cost you’d pay without us.
Yes, during certain enrollment periods. The Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15 – Dec 7) allows plan changes each year. Some changes may also be possible during other special periods.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans typically travel with you anywhere in the U.S. Medicare Advantage plans are typically local/regional, so you may need to change plans. Call us – we will make it easy.
Ready to Navigate Medicare Together?
Schedule your free Medicare consultation today. We’ll compare every option available and make sure you’re protected from day one.