Current News
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Annual Election Period
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The Annual Election Period is upon us. Marketing may begin October 1st. Applications may be submitted October 15th to December 7th. All effective dates will be January 1, 2013. |
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Tips for dealing with your Health Care
- For Seniors and Disabled under 65, the AEP can have its pit falls. Most agents do the right thing, but CMS wants you to be aware of activities that are NOT legal.
- No one may call you to solicit appointments unless you ask them to call.
- No one may simply drop by because a neighbor said you might me interested.
- NO DOOR TO DOOR SALES are permitted.
- Medicare does not have agents that work in your neighborhood. Anyone showing up claiming to work for “Medicare” to help with your plan is an imposter. Call the police.
- Never let an agent discuss non-medical products with you while discussing Medicare products. Life insurance, hospital plans, etc. are not to be discussed at such meetings. They can be done on follow up meetings.
- Never let an agent try to sell you Medicare after he comes to your house after discussing another product. Bait and Switch is alive and well unfortunately.
- Watch for high pressure tactics:
- “You need to sign today or you will be late.”
- “You need to sign because I may not get by here again.”
- “Medicare sent me so its ok.”
- “Its ok to sign now, I will date it later for you if you decide you want it.”
- Watch for ID theft:
- “Let me see your Medicare card to verify its ok.”
- Be wary of promises or statement not in writing:
- “Oh your plan is terrible.”
- “I heard your agent is a crook.”
- You can use your card anywhere!”
- Seniors and Disabled need to be aware of your choices:
- In the Annual Election Period, you have October 15th to December 7th to make changes effective for January 1, 2013.
- If you are new to Medicare, your enrollment times are 3 months prior to your Birthday month, your birth month, and 3 months after your birth month.
- Medicare recipients who leave an employers plan, move, have or get Low Income Subsidy (LIS), Medicaid and other special situations may qualify for Special Election Periods (SEP). Contact us for help on those dates.
- Under 65 applicants should look at options for traditional plans and Health Savings Accounts.
- As The Affordable Health Act takes effect, rules and costs will phase in. Stay in taouch with your agent for changes as they happen.
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