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Originally Posted by Michael 61
My exact sentiments- I’m 63, so two more years from Medicare age, but have done extensive research and homework in preparation of making the very important decision TA vs MA. I have also met with the folks at Shine - great resource.
I’m amazed how many my age haven’t done any research on the topic, and have an almost “cavalier” approach as to what to do when they turn 65. Many, unfortunately, appear that cost and freebies will be the deciding factor as to what they chose.
I feel it’s so important not to just to assess your current health conditions/situations, but look down the line 20-30 years from now, and determine what type of coverage would suit you best if diagnosed with a serious or terminal illness or if in need of rehab.
Everyone’s situation is different - and one plan may work better for some than others. For me, I’m going with TA+Medigap. Even though I’m healthy and prescription-drug free at his time in my life, it will help me sleep better knowing I have the best coverage available if needed. It’s the same as house or auto insurance, I don’t go with the cheapest premium necessarily, but for what is the best actual coverage in the event I need to make a claim. (I’m a retired insurance claims manager).
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Smart. Wait until you get about 5 months before turning 65 and have two files handy, one very large file labeled “Medicare Advantage” and another much smaller one labeled “Medicare Supplement”. You will begin to get a steady avalanche of mail right up until your 65th birthday. You will be absolutely amazed at how much marketing stuff you get for Medicare Advantage plans, relative to information brochures related to Supplemental Plans. The amount of MA marketing materials you will get from AARP in conjunction with United Healthcare alone will practically fill up your large file. Take all that for what it’s worth, but it was easy for me to interpret it.