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Articles, guides and FAQs on Original Medicare and Medicare process topics

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Paper desk calendar with thumbtacks, a red thumbtack indicating birthday in which the birthday rule applies

Medigap Birthday Rule in these 10 States: What It Is and How to Use It

April 10, 2025

For those with Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plans, you may be wondering what your options are for switching carriers or coverage over time as your healthcare needs change. Unlike Part D and Medicare Advantage that have an Annual Enrollment Period (Oct. 15-Dec. 7), Medigap beneficiaries can make changes to their plans at any time of year…

Understanding Medicare: 20 Medicare Terms to Know

Understanding Medicare: 62 Medicare Terms to Know

February 11, 2025

Medicare is confusing! Every now and then, it’s good to revisit the basics so you stay informed about your health care insurance. This Medicare glossary includes the most common Medicare terms that you should know as you research Medicare 1. Ancillary Services A supplemental or supportive healthcare service provided in addition to primary care, including:…

Is Medicare State Specific?

Is Medicare State Specific?

February 11, 2025

If you’re new to the world of Medicare, you probably have a lot of questions. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by your options. United Medicare Advisors is here to give you the answers you need to inform your Medicare decisions. One question we get a lot concerns our client’s location: “Is Medicare state specific?” The…

When was Medicare established

When was Medicare established?

February 11, 2025

The law that led to Medicare and Medicaid was signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 30, 1965. At that time, the program included Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). This is now known as “Original Medicare” or “Traditional Medicare”, and approximately 44 million people are part of the program today.…

Medicare Part A + Part B

What determines the Medicare Part B Premium?

February 11, 2025

Medicare Part A and Part B provide the exact same benefits for all Medicare beneficiaries throughout the country no matter their age or location. Why is it, then, that premiums for that coverage can vary greatly? High-Income Levels Mean Higher Premiums Higher premium rates apply to individuals who have incomes above $106,000 and couples above…

Sick woman taking medicine from prescription bottle. Prescription drugs are covered under Medicare Part D, that's why it's important to know your medications in choosing a Medicare Part D plan.

How to Search for and Choose a Medicare Part D Plan

December 4, 2024

When it comes to Medicare, Part D — prescription drug coverage — can be one of the most important but most confusing pieces of the puzzle. With tons of plans, varying costs, and differing coverage, it can be overwhelming to understand your options, let alone know which will work for your needs.  That’s where this…

2025 Medicare Changes to Part B and Part D Premiums, Part A Deductibles, and IRMAA

December 2, 2024

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) has released the changes to Medicare premiums, deductibles, and income adjustments for 2025. Medicare Part B Premiums and IRMAA for 2025 Medicare Part B is essential for medical coverage, and its standard monthly premium in 2025 is $185.00, a little over ten dollars more than the standard premium…

Medicare Part D Coverage for GLP-1 Drugs

November 21, 2024

GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy, Ozempic, Trulicity, and more are generating a lot of buzz for their effectiveness in weight loss and diabetes management. We’ll break down what you need to know about Wegovy and Ozempic and how Part D fits into the picture. What are GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic? Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro, and…

Medicare Card Replacement

INFOGRAPHIC: 7 Tips Before Starting Medicare

October 28, 2024

If you’re approaching Medicare eligibility, start here. This infographic can get you up to speed on everything you need to know before starting Medicare.

Two Social Security cards laying over a sheet of paper of retirement income, Social Security and Medicare work together to support you in retirement

Social Security and Medicare: How They Work & Coordinating Benefits

October 18, 2024

Have questions about Social Security and Medicare? Though they differ in benefits and eligibility, these two programs work together to provide you with financial security and healthcare coverage in your retirement years.

Here’s what you need to know about both programs, including eligibility, benefits and costs, and how you coordinate them.