So many of my clients have expressed their frustration and confusion when trying to sort through the masses of information around and about Medicare and Medicare Supplement Plans.
It would take more than the space of this article to untangle that ball of yarn. We can look at some strategies for finding relevant information, getting help if you need it, and a few pitfalls to avoid.
You don’t have to do this on your own. A licensed insurance agent can be a great resource for you. You may a,”How do I find the right agent?” There are a few things that you can look for that will help you identify the good ones.
1)Is the agent an independent agent? You want the answer to be yes. An independent agent is not tied to just one carrier. They can talk to you and provide information about all of the plans available in your area. Having access to info on many plans will insure that you can pick the right one for you. Avoid agents that work for one carrier. If an agent can only offer plans from one carrier, you may never even see the plan that may have been right for you. You also run the risk that if the agent separates from that company he/she will no longer be able to service your policy for you. In effect leaving you without an agent.
2)Does the agent ask you the right questions before making a recommendation? Issues such as your current health, travel habits, budget, the level of coverage you are comfortable with should all be part of the initial interview. Don’t forget that this decision is about what is best for you and your situation is unique to you.
3)Does the agent specialize in Medicare specifically? The world of insurance is extremely diverse. Look for an agent who specializes in Medicare. Someone who is up to date on the laws and the changes is going to be able to advise you. It is wise to avoid a “jack of all trades” when it comes to Medicare. There is a lot to know about any genre of insurance.You are better with someone focused on the segment that you are dealing with.
4)If you want to ensure that an agent available to you for customer service in the future, you can simply look at the agents past. Namely, how long have they been in the insurance business? It is relatively easy to get an insurance license. Huge numbers of people do it each year. Only a small percentage will have the determination and desire and love of the business to last through the first year. If you do business with one of the “newbies” you are taking the risk that when you need them down the line, they will be gone pursuing other dreams.
5)Don’t put up with an agent who talks over your head. Be wary of an agent who uses terminology that is unfamiliar to you. There is no reason for that at all. A good agent will give you the information in layman’s terms. They will not be rushed, rather they will spend the necessary time to make sure that you are clear about the information. Then and only then will you be ready to decide what is best for you.
6)Ask yourself if it seems like the agent trying to help you or themselves. All insurance professionals are in business to make a living. It is the ethical insurance professionals who live by the fact that it is only by taking care of the customer, that you take care of yourself.
So you don’t have to wander the Medicare maze all alone. You can confidently seek the help you need with Medicare and Medigap Insurance. Use these tips to make sure you are dealing with the right person.
We want to help. You do not have to approach medicare alone. For the latest information about Medicare or to learn about medicare supplement plan options and rates in your area, call 888-347-5552 or visit www.medicarequote4u.com.