Medicare beneficiaries in the state of Florida find they can lower costs with a Medicare Supplement plan. Some states have specific rules. But, Florida mostly follows the federal guidelines. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Medicare Supplement plans in Florida for 2021. We’ll discuss Floridians’ cost, coverage, and eligibility options.
Best Medicare Supplement Plans in Florida for 2021
The best Medigap plans are Plan F, G, and N. But, these are the top Medigap plans in the nation too.
Plan F covers the most benefits, leaving you with no out of pocket costs. Those with Plan G will cover the Part B deductible themselves. Further, those with Plan N will also pay the Part B deductible and have a few co-payments.
Depending on when you became eligible for Medicare, you might not be able to enroll in Plan F. Since Medigap plans in Florida aren’t the cheapest, a lot of beneficiaries go with Plan N or Plan G.
How Much Does Medigap Cost in Florida?
Carriers charge a premium each month for Medigap plans. These premiums can vary from one carrier to another. They also depend on your age, sex, and location.
The pricing method the carrier chooses to use can impact the cost. In Florida, companies must use issue age ratings or community ratings.
For a 65-year-old female in Orlando, Plan F could cost almost $200 a month. But, Plan N could cost less than $130.
If going to the doctor isn’t a frequent occurrence, Plan N could be a money saver. But, if regular doctor visits are part of your normal activities, Plan G or F could provide more predictable costs.
Who is Eligible for Medicare in Florida?
When you turn 65 and have Part B, you can enroll in a Medigap plan. Each beneficiary gets a 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period to select a plan and avoid underwriting.
Delaying enrollment could result in the inability to enroll in a Medigap plan in the future. You can still enroll in a plan outside your OEP, but your health could impact your premiums.
Medicare Supplement Plans for Disabled Under 65 in Florida
Those under 65 can expect the premium to be MUCH higher than it would be for someone over 65.
The premium for Plan N for a female under 65 in Orlando would cost over $400 a month. Those with Medicare and disability opt for a Medicare Advantage plan until they turn 65.
Medicare Advantage Plans in Florida
If you’re not eligible or can’t afford Medigap insurance, an Advantage plan is better than no supplemental coverage.
Some counties offer Special Needs Medicare Advantage Plans that cater to those with chronic health issues.
Over 40% of Medicare enrollees in Florida chose a Medicare Advantage plan to administer their benefits. There are many $0 premium plans available throughout the state.
Not all counties have the same plans; some areas, like Miami-Dade, have a lot of Advantage plan enrollees. But, Key West has fewer Medicare Advantage enrollees.
While these plans are notorious for being “all-in-one” coverage options, they have rules and restrictions you must follow. Rules can include using in-network doctors and obtaining referrals.
Many HMO plans don’t cover you unless you stay in-network. And, PPO plans can cost you 30% when you go out of network.
Medicare Part D Plans in Florida
Florida currently offers 27 different Part D options throughout the state.
For many, Medicare with a Medigap plan and a Part D policy is the ultimate coverage.
Not enrolling in a Part D plan when you’re first eligible could result in penalties.
If you don’t take any drugs, join in the cheapest premium policy to avoid a late penalty.
Part D plans range from less than $20 to over $100. But, don’t judge a policy by the monthly premium.
When looking at costs, consider what you’ll pay out of pocket for your medications.
A plan with a higher premium could benefit someone with several brand name drugs.
FAQs
How to Apply for Medicare in Florida
We’re located in Palm Harbor, Florida. Our agents know Florida Medigap insurance. You can trust them to find the best plan for you. Our services are 100% free; we’re here to help you understand the Medicare maze. You can also give us a call directly at the number above to speak to an agent now.
We’ll take your specific information and compare rates with the top carriers in your area. Give us a call at the number above to get started today! Or, complete our rate form to compare rates online!