I'm signing up for a medigap policy this month. Anyone have any recommendations for a reliable minimal hassle provider?<br>So far Gerber has given me the best (lowest) rate, but I am unfamiliar with Gerber as an insurance. Does anyone use them and what is your experience with Gerber Insurance.<br>Thanks so much<br>Melony<br><br>
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Medigap
- Thread starter melx
- Start date
I'm signing up for a medigap policy this month. Anyone have any recommendations for a reliable minimal hassle provider?<br>So far Gerber has given me the best (lowest) rate, but I am unfamiliar with Gerber as an insurance. Does anyone use them and what is your experience with Gerber Insurance.<br>Thanks so much<br>Melony<br><br>
I'm signing up for a medigap policy this month. Anyone have any recommendations for a reliable minimal hassle provider?<br>So far Gerber has given me the best (lowest) rate, but I am unfamiliar with Gerber as an insurance. Does anyone use them and what is your experience with Gerber Insurance.<br>Thanks so much<br>Melony<br><br>
Rates and policies depend on where you live. I live in NY and use Mutual of Omaha, they have been great as far as picking up the 20% that Medicare doesn't cover. There are different tiers in Medigap policies, each with different coverage (as if it weren't confusing enough!). Pick whichever one that best suits you..I have policy G under Mutual, it covers the $1000 plus deductible for hospitalizations (with each benefit period), up to $50,000 if I am out of the US (Medicare doesn't cover expenses incurred out of the US from what I understand) and more....The most basic policy is A as far as covering gaps, as you go up in tiers, so does the degree of extra coverage as well as price for the policy. Here is a site that best describes the various tiers of any Medigap policy http://agent.tarkentonfinancial.com/articles/medicare-supplement-policies
Good luck, if you have any questions, ask away <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">
Jenn 39 w/CF
Good luck, if you have any questions, ask away <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">
Jenn 39 w/CF
Rates and policies depend on where you live. I live in NY and use Mutual of Omaha, they have been great as far as picking up the 20% that Medicare doesn't cover. There are different tiers in Medigap policies, each with different coverage (as if it weren't confusing enough!). Pick whichever one that best suits you..I have policy G under Mutual, it covers the $1000 plus deductible for hospitalizations (with each benefit period), up to $50,000 if I am out of the US (Medicare doesn't cover expenses incurred out of the US from what I understand) and more....The most basic policy is A as far as covering gaps, as you go up in tiers, so does the degree of extra coverage as well as price for the policy. Here is a site that best describes the various tiers of any Medigap policy http://agent.tarkentonfinancial.com/articles/medicare-supplement-policies
Good luck, if you have any questions, ask away <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">
Jenn 39 w/CF
Good luck, if you have any questions, ask away <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">
Jenn 39 w/CF
Rates and policies depend on where you live. I live in NY and use Mutual of Omaha, they have been great as far as picking up the 20% that Medicare doesn't cover. There are different tiers in Medigap policies, each with different coverage (as if it weren't confusing enough!). Pick whichever one that best suits you..I have policy G under Mutual, it covers the $1000 plus deductible for hospitalizations (with each benefit period), up to $50,000 if I am out of the US (Medicare doesn't cover expenses incurred out of the US from what I understand) and more....The most basic policy is A as far as covering gaps, as you go up in tiers, so does the degree of extra coverage as well as price for the policy. Here is a site that best describes the various tiers of any Medigap policy http://agent.tarkentonfinancial.com/articles/medicare-supplement-policies
<br />
<br />Good luck, if you have any questions, ask away <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">
<br />Jenn 39 w/CF
<br />
<br />Good luck, if you have any questions, ask away <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">
<br />Jenn 39 w/CF
Thank You Jenn. Yes, I have been learning about the Medicare Alphabet jingle and dance <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"><br>I have decided on "plan F" for medigap. It seems to be one of the better ones for someone with CF since we have the potential for all sort of insurance <span style="font-style: italic;">situations. My concern is if these companies that provide medigap may give me hassles. So I was wondering if anyone had really good or really bad experiences with any of them. I spoke with an agent who said Gerber is reinsured via Mutual of Omaha (which is the second largest insurance provider in the USA). It gives me confidence in them a little more. And your opinion just about settles it for me . <br>I also wanted to say to you that you have some of the best input on this site regarding medicare. I have been reading past threads on this topic, and your advice is always spot on and helpful. Thank you for that. <br>My best to you.<br>Melony<br>
Thank You Jenn. Yes, I have been learning about the Medicare Alphabet jingle and dance <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"><br>I have decided on "plan F" for medigap. It seems to be one of the better ones for someone with CF since we have the potential for all sort of insurance <span style="font-style: italic;">situations. My concern is if these companies that provide medigap may give me hassles. So I was wondering if anyone had really good or really bad experiences with any of them. I spoke with an agent who said Gerber is reinsured via Mutual of Omaha (which is the second largest insurance provider in the USA). It gives me confidence in them a little more. And your opinion just about settles it for me . <br>I also wanted to say to you that you have some of the best input on this site regarding medicare. I have been reading past threads on this topic, and your advice is always spot on and helpful. Thank you for that. <br>My best to you.<br>Melony<br>
Thank You Jenn. Yes, I have been learning about the Medicare Alphabet jingle and dance <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"><br>I have decided on "plan F" for medigap. It seems to be one of the better ones for someone with CF since we have the potential for all sort of insurance <span style="font-style: italic;">situations. My concern is if these companies that provide medigap may give me hassles. So I was wondering if anyone had really good or really bad experiences with any of them. I spoke with an agent who said Gerber is reinsured via Mutual of Omaha (which is the second largest insurance provider in the USA). It gives me confidence in them a little more. And your opinion just about settles it for me . <br>I also wanted to say to you that you have some of the best input on this site regarding medicare. I have been reading past threads on this topic, and your advice is always spot on and helpful. Thank you for that. <br>My best to you.<br>Melony<br>
Medigap plans vary state to state. Depending on where you live, one company's rate will be the best while in another state, it may not be the least expensive.
Each plan F is the same as any other company's plan F. Price and financial strength are the only concerns. Price being more heavily favored. Expect pricing of these plans to increase each year. Sometimes it a small increase, some times it's not. As long as you remain in fair health, you can move your medicare supplement (medigap) plan whenever you want. Medicare advantage plans are a completely different story. Gov't is heavily involved in medicare advantage and only allow you to change at the end of the year (same as with part D).
One other issue I would mention. Don't necessarily think your friend's plan will be the best plan for you. Here are some factors to consider:
Some plans offer spouse discounts
Some plans offer same price no matter what your height and weight are
some plans offer same rates for smoker vs non-smokers
Some plans offer "looser" underwriting guidelines
I would recommend working with a broker. I know one who is great (important notice: I am a little biased - she's my wife). You can check out her website, although it is going thru some updating prior to annual enrollment period.
I know this is my first post, but I hope the information helps you.
Thanks
RTW
wife's site : www dot mymedigapconsultant dot com
Each plan F is the same as any other company's plan F. Price and financial strength are the only concerns. Price being more heavily favored. Expect pricing of these plans to increase each year. Sometimes it a small increase, some times it's not. As long as you remain in fair health, you can move your medicare supplement (medigap) plan whenever you want. Medicare advantage plans are a completely different story. Gov't is heavily involved in medicare advantage and only allow you to change at the end of the year (same as with part D).
One other issue I would mention. Don't necessarily think your friend's plan will be the best plan for you. Here are some factors to consider:
Some plans offer spouse discounts
Some plans offer same price no matter what your height and weight are
some plans offer same rates for smoker vs non-smokers
Some plans offer "looser" underwriting guidelines
I would recommend working with a broker. I know one who is great (important notice: I am a little biased - she's my wife). You can check out her website, although it is going thru some updating prior to annual enrollment period.
I know this is my first post, but I hope the information helps you.
Thanks
RTW
wife's site : www dot mymedigapconsultant dot com
Medigap plans vary state to state. Depending on where you live, one company's rate will be the best while in another state, it may not be the least expensive.
Each plan F is the same as any other company's plan F. Price and financial strength are the only concerns. Price being more heavily favored. Expect pricing of these plans to increase each year. Sometimes it a small increase, some times it's not. As long as you remain in fair health, you can move your medicare supplement (medigap) plan whenever you want. Medicare advantage plans are a completely different story. Gov't is heavily involved in medicare advantage and only allow you to change at the end of the year (same as with part D).
One other issue I would mention. Don't necessarily think your friend's plan will be the best plan for you. Here are some factors to consider:
Some plans offer spouse discounts
Some plans offer same price no matter what your height and weight are
some plans offer same rates for smoker vs non-smokers
Some plans offer "looser" underwriting guidelines
I would recommend working with a broker. I know one who is great (important notice: I am a little biased - she's my wife). You can check out her website, although it is going thru some updating prior to annual enrollment period.
I know this is my first post, but I hope the information helps you.
Thanks
RTW
wife's site : www dot mymedigapconsultant dot com
Each plan F is the same as any other company's plan F. Price and financial strength are the only concerns. Price being more heavily favored. Expect pricing of these plans to increase each year. Sometimes it a small increase, some times it's not. As long as you remain in fair health, you can move your medicare supplement (medigap) plan whenever you want. Medicare advantage plans are a completely different story. Gov't is heavily involved in medicare advantage and only allow you to change at the end of the year (same as with part D).
One other issue I would mention. Don't necessarily think your friend's plan will be the best plan for you. Here are some factors to consider:
Some plans offer spouse discounts
Some plans offer same price no matter what your height and weight are
some plans offer same rates for smoker vs non-smokers
Some plans offer "looser" underwriting guidelines
I would recommend working with a broker. I know one who is great (important notice: I am a little biased - she's my wife). You can check out her website, although it is going thru some updating prior to annual enrollment period.
I know this is my first post, but I hope the information helps you.
Thanks
RTW
wife's site : www dot mymedigapconsultant dot com
Medigap plans vary state to state. Depending on where you live, one company's rate will be the best while in another state, it may not be the least expensive.
<br />
<br />Each plan F is the same as any other company's plan F. Price and financial strength are the only concerns. Price being more heavily favored. Expect pricing of these plans to increase each year. Sometimes it a small increase, some times it's not. As long as you remain in fair health, you can move your medicare supplement (medigap) plan whenever you want. Medicare advantage plans are a completely different story. Gov't is heavily involved in medicare advantage and only allow you to change at the end of the year (same as with part D).
<br />
<br />One other issue I would mention. Don't necessarily think your friend's plan will be the best plan for you. Here are some factors to consider:
<br />
<br />Some plans offer spouse discounts
<br />Some plans offer same price no matter what your height and weight are
<br />some plans offer same rates for smoker vs non-smokers
<br />Some plans offer "looser" underwriting guidelines
<br />
<br />I would recommend working with a broker. I know one who is great (important notice: I am a little biased - she's my wife). You can check out her website, although it is going thru some updating prior to annual enrollment period.
<br />
<br />I know this is my first post, but I hope the information helps you.
<br />
<br />Thanks
<br />RTW
<br />wife's site : www dot mymedigapconsultant dot com
<br />
<br />Each plan F is the same as any other company's plan F. Price and financial strength are the only concerns. Price being more heavily favored. Expect pricing of these plans to increase each year. Sometimes it a small increase, some times it's not. As long as you remain in fair health, you can move your medicare supplement (medigap) plan whenever you want. Medicare advantage plans are a completely different story. Gov't is heavily involved in medicare advantage and only allow you to change at the end of the year (same as with part D).
<br />
<br />One other issue I would mention. Don't necessarily think your friend's plan will be the best plan for you. Here are some factors to consider:
<br />
<br />Some plans offer spouse discounts
<br />Some plans offer same price no matter what your height and weight are
<br />some plans offer same rates for smoker vs non-smokers
<br />Some plans offer "looser" underwriting guidelines
<br />
<br />I would recommend working with a broker. I know one who is great (important notice: I am a little biased - she's my wife). You can check out her website, although it is going thru some updating prior to annual enrollment period.
<br />
<br />I know this is my first post, but I hope the information helps you.
<br />
<br />Thanks
<br />RTW
<br />wife's site : www dot mymedigapconsultant dot com
Your welcome! I have been dealing with Medicare as my primary ins. since 2004 and it can be confusing at times, especially with so many options out there. So glad I was helpful <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"> If you have anymore questions, shoot!
Jenn 39 w/CF
Jenn 39 w/CF
Your welcome! I have been dealing with Medicare as my primary ins. since 2004 and it can be confusing at times, especially with so many options out there. So glad I was helpful <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"> If you have anymore questions, shoot!
Jenn 39 w/CF
Jenn 39 w/CF
Your welcome! I have been dealing with Medicare as my primary ins. since 2004 and it can be confusing at times, especially with so many options out there. So glad I was helpful <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"> If you have anymore questions, shoot!
<br />
<br />Jenn 39 w/CF
<br />
<br />Jenn 39 w/CF
JennifersHope
New member
I agree Jenn Rocks... I always ask her.. I can not wait till I get my Medicare coverage.. just a few more months.... I hate Medicaid... I am grateful for it but can't stand the crap that goes with it....
I will be hitting you up for more information Jenn .. and I keep reading what you write..
Thanks
I will be hitting you up for more information Jenn .. and I keep reading what you write..
Thanks
JennifersHope
New member
I agree Jenn Rocks... I always ask her.. I can not wait till I get my Medicare coverage.. just a few more months.... I hate Medicaid... I am grateful for it but can't stand the crap that goes with it....
I will be hitting you up for more information Jenn .. and I keep reading what you write..
Thanks
I will be hitting you up for more information Jenn .. and I keep reading what you write..
Thanks
JennifersHope
New member
I agree Jenn Rocks... I always ask her.. I can not wait till I get my Medicare coverage.. just a few more months.... I hate Medicaid... I am grateful for it but can't stand the crap that goes with it....
<br />
<br />I will be hitting you up for more information Jenn .. and I keep reading what you write..
<br />
<br />Thanks
<br />
<br />I will be hitting you up for more information Jenn .. and I keep reading what you write..
<br />
<br />Thanks
Thanks for all your responses & yes yes more questions!
1. Had an agent tell me that since I am under 65 & on medicare that I would not be able to switch medigap plans or providers until I am 65. Is this true?? She said that if I wanted to change to another medigap plan I would have to do it before my first 3 months on medigap are up. After that I am out of my "open enrollment" period. She said people who are on medicare due to disability are only eligible for medigap enrollment from 3 months prior to & 3 months after their date they start medicare (basically the original open enrollment period). If this is true than I will have to stick to whatever plan I decide on until I am 65. This sounds pretty crazy.... but I am thinking it is probably true. Anyone know for sure?
Jenn have you ever switched Medigap or part D insurance companies?
2. RTW see my question #1 above. I think the info I got from this particular agent contradicts what you say about switching plans whenever I want. I am just not sure which is accurate. I live in Florida. Florida mandates that if insurance company is going to sell medigap they must sell at least one plan to those under 65. I recently went to Florida's insurance commissioner website; and via a public records search I have found that many medigap providers are currently applying for rate increases. Right now Florida providers are freaking out due to the relatively new mandate of insuring those of us under 65. The are realizing the cost involved and requesting rate increases out the wazoo . It is a mess. Gerber is looking to raise premium 100% for under 65 group. The insurance commissioners office suggested (to me via phone discussion) that would probably not happen; but that a 40% increase could easily happen.
(Thank you for the info, I will check your wife's site)
3. Not so much a question but I am going to call Beth Sufian's office. I am hoping her clear input will alleviate some of this limbo I am in and allow me to finally get some sleep! Lord this insurance stuff makes me worry.
1. Had an agent tell me that since I am under 65 & on medicare that I would not be able to switch medigap plans or providers until I am 65. Is this true?? She said that if I wanted to change to another medigap plan I would have to do it before my first 3 months on medigap are up. After that I am out of my "open enrollment" period. She said people who are on medicare due to disability are only eligible for medigap enrollment from 3 months prior to & 3 months after their date they start medicare (basically the original open enrollment period). If this is true than I will have to stick to whatever plan I decide on until I am 65. This sounds pretty crazy.... but I am thinking it is probably true. Anyone know for sure?
Jenn have you ever switched Medigap or part D insurance companies?
2. RTW see my question #1 above. I think the info I got from this particular agent contradicts what you say about switching plans whenever I want. I am just not sure which is accurate. I live in Florida. Florida mandates that if insurance company is going to sell medigap they must sell at least one plan to those under 65. I recently went to Florida's insurance commissioner website; and via a public records search I have found that many medigap providers are currently applying for rate increases. Right now Florida providers are freaking out due to the relatively new mandate of insuring those of us under 65. The are realizing the cost involved and requesting rate increases out the wazoo . It is a mess. Gerber is looking to raise premium 100% for under 65 group. The insurance commissioners office suggested (to me via phone discussion) that would probably not happen; but that a 40% increase could easily happen.
(Thank you for the info, I will check your wife's site)
3. Not so much a question but I am going to call Beth Sufian's office. I am hoping her clear input will alleviate some of this limbo I am in and allow me to finally get some sleep! Lord this insurance stuff makes me worry.
Thanks for all your responses & yes yes more questions!
1. Had an agent tell me that since I am under 65 & on medicare that I would not be able to switch medigap plans or providers until I am 65. Is this true?? She said that if I wanted to change to another medigap plan I would have to do it before my first 3 months on medigap are up. After that I am out of my "open enrollment" period. She said people who are on medicare due to disability are only eligible for medigap enrollment from 3 months prior to & 3 months after their date they start medicare (basically the original open enrollment period). If this is true than I will have to stick to whatever plan I decide on until I am 65. This sounds pretty crazy.... but I am thinking it is probably true. Anyone know for sure?
Jenn have you ever switched Medigap or part D insurance companies?
2. RTW see my question #1 above. I think the info I got from this particular agent contradicts what you say about switching plans whenever I want. I am just not sure which is accurate. I live in Florida. Florida mandates that if insurance company is going to sell medigap they must sell at least one plan to those under 65. I recently went to Florida's insurance commissioner website; and via a public records search I have found that many medigap providers are currently applying for rate increases. Right now Florida providers are freaking out due to the relatively new mandate of insuring those of us under 65. The are realizing the cost involved and requesting rate increases out the wazoo . It is a mess. Gerber is looking to raise premium 100% for under 65 group. The insurance commissioners office suggested (to me via phone discussion) that would probably not happen; but that a 40% increase could easily happen.
(Thank you for the info, I will check your wife's site)
3. Not so much a question but I am going to call Beth Sufian's office. I am hoping her clear input will alleviate some of this limbo I am in and allow me to finally get some sleep! Lord this insurance stuff makes me worry.
1. Had an agent tell me that since I am under 65 & on medicare that I would not be able to switch medigap plans or providers until I am 65. Is this true?? She said that if I wanted to change to another medigap plan I would have to do it before my first 3 months on medigap are up. After that I am out of my "open enrollment" period. She said people who are on medicare due to disability are only eligible for medigap enrollment from 3 months prior to & 3 months after their date they start medicare (basically the original open enrollment period). If this is true than I will have to stick to whatever plan I decide on until I am 65. This sounds pretty crazy.... but I am thinking it is probably true. Anyone know for sure?
Jenn have you ever switched Medigap or part D insurance companies?
2. RTW see my question #1 above. I think the info I got from this particular agent contradicts what you say about switching plans whenever I want. I am just not sure which is accurate. I live in Florida. Florida mandates that if insurance company is going to sell medigap they must sell at least one plan to those under 65. I recently went to Florida's insurance commissioner website; and via a public records search I have found that many medigap providers are currently applying for rate increases. Right now Florida providers are freaking out due to the relatively new mandate of insuring those of us under 65. The are realizing the cost involved and requesting rate increases out the wazoo . It is a mess. Gerber is looking to raise premium 100% for under 65 group. The insurance commissioners office suggested (to me via phone discussion) that would probably not happen; but that a 40% increase could easily happen.
(Thank you for the info, I will check your wife's site)
3. Not so much a question but I am going to call Beth Sufian's office. I am hoping her clear input will alleviate some of this limbo I am in and allow me to finally get some sleep! Lord this insurance stuff makes me worry.