There are 10,000 baby boomers turning 65 every single day. If you are also turning 65 soon, you might feel a bit anxious. Not because you are turning 65 (after all, age 65 is the new 55). You are feeling overwhelmed due to the fact that your health insurance is probably changing and it’s time to switch to a Medicare Plan. As the wise consumer that you are, you have started to do your research. Medicare and Medicare Supplemental options can be quite confusing. Then add all the mail that you’ve been receiving-those thick packets, the scary postcards and all those letters-you are even more confused, feel overwhelmed and you are now experiencing information overload. You have come to the realization that you want professional guidance concerning your options. But where to turn? If you follow these simple steps in seeking out an advisor, you will probably have a great experience with your Medicare Supplemental needs.
1. Stay Local. Do you really want to trust your Medicare Health Insurance with some calling center “agent,” somewhere across the country or in another country altogether? If you stay local, that advisor should be willing to meet with you and review all your needs in person. Also, that advisor is well aware which plans work well in your area.
2. Expertise. There are many, many agents and brokers that sell insurance. Most of them are a jack of all trades, masters of none. Medicare and Medicare options are quite unique. Work with someone who specializes in Medicare Supplemental and Medicare Advantage plans and knows this field inside and out.
3. Professional. When you seek legal help, you talk to a person with JD on his/her business card. When you need tax help, you work with a CPA. Insurance advice should be no different. Work with a professional, who earned the designations Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC).
4. Broker. Never, ever work with an agent that only represents one company. That agent is working for that particular insurance company, not for you. You want an unbiased Medicare broker who handles many companies. Your advisor should work for you!
The internet is an amazing tool. Use it! When you are on the internet, you need to decide whether you simply want a quote, or whether you want a professional advisor assisting you. Either way, the premium you pay for the Medicare Supplement Insurance is exactly the same. Why not take advantage of the guidance of a local Medicare professional? The service, advice, and processing is going to make a world of difference. Follow the above steps when deciding on an Medicare advisor, and you will be in great shape!