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2026 Medicare IRMAA Amounts 2026: What Beneficiaries Should Expect

If beneficiary income is above certain thresholds, they’ll pay more for Medicare Part B and Part D through an IRMAA; the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount. Because IRMAA is based on your tax return from two years earlier, 2024 income will determine what you owe in 2026. It is important to understand Medicare IRMAA amounts 2026 to budget for the year.

What Is IRMAA

IRMAA adds a surcharge to your Part B and Part D premiums if your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) exceeds the set limits. For Part B, it’s usually withheld from Social Security; for Part D, it’s billed directly. If your income has recently dropped due to retirement, marriage, divorce, or another life-changing event, you can request a reconsideration using SSA Form 44.

Projected 2026 Costs

The standard Part B premium is projected to rise to $206.50/month in 2026, up from $185 in 2025. Even those who don’t pay IRMAA will see higher costs.

For higher-income beneficiaries, surcharges are added in brackets. Here are projected 2026 totals for Part B:

• Income of up to $109,000 (single) / $218,000 (married): pay $206.50 (the standard monthly rate)
• Income levels from $109k–$137k (single)/ $218k–$274k (married): pay $289 for Part B
• Those with income levels $137k–$171k (single)/ $274k–$342k (married): pay $413 for Part B
• Income levels of $171k–$205k (single) / $342k–$410k (married): pay $537
• Beneficiaries who make $205k–$500k (single) / $410k–$750k (married): will pay $661
• Those with income levels over $500k (single) / $750k (married): must pay $702

Part D IRMAA surcharges will also rise, from about $14.50/month in the first bracket up to $91/month for the highest incomes. CMS adds these amounts to the beneficiaries plan premium.

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What This Means for Beneficiaries

• Premiums are climbing, as they do most years. Even without IRMAA, 2026 Medicare costs are higher.
• IRMAA is a “cliff.” Going just $1 over a threshold bumps you into a higher bracket.
• Tax planning matters. Roth conversions, investment sales, and IRA withdrawals can all affect your MAGI.
• Life changes can help reduce an IRMAA. If income drops, beneficiaries may appeal to reduce or eliminate an IRMAA.

Planning Ahead

• Review 2024 tax returns to gauge your 2026 bracket.
• Be aware of income timing; shifting taxable money can prevent reaching income thresholds.
• Keep documentation ready if you need proof for a reconsideration.
• Stay updated on Medicare’s official income release in late 2025 for confirmation of final numbers.

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The projected 2026 IRMAA increases could mean significantly higher Medicare costs for high-income beneficiaries. By planning around your 2024 income now, beneficiaries may avoid unnecessary surcharges and keep more of their retirement income.

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Preparing for AEP 2026: Boost Your Sales, Retain Clients, and Grow Your Book

The 2026 Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) isn’t just another enrollment season; it’s a golden opportunity to build stronger client relationships and grow your business. With more non–commissionable Prescription Drug Plans (PDPs) and Medicare Advantage (MA) plans in the market, preparing for AEP 2026 is more difficult than ever.

Here’s how you can maximize earnings, protect your clients, and position yourself as the go-to Medicare resource this AEP.

Turn Non-Commissionable Plans Into Revenue Opportunities

Yes, some PDPs and MA plans won’t pay you. But don’t let that stop you from helping your clients:

• Be the expert they trust. Walk them through all available options; even the ones you don’t get paid for. This honesty builds loyalty and keeps them coming back every year.
• Leverage the conversation. Once you’ve solved their drug plan or MA needs, introduce other solutions that can better protect them and generate income for you.
• Think lifetime value, not one commission. The client you help today (even for free) could be the one who buys a Medigap plan, final expense policy, or ancillary product tomorrow.

Promote Medicare Supplements

Medicare Supplements are a powerful tool for agents looking to grow their book with long-term, commissionable business.

• High Deductible Plan G (HDG): Sell the benefits of lower premiums, network freedom, and great cost protection once the deductible is met. Perfect for healthy, budget-conscious clients.
• Plan G or Plan N: Offer predictable out-of-pocket costs and peace of mind. Great for clients leaving MA plans or worried about networks shrinking.
• Target switching opportunities: Use the Medigap Open Enrollment period, guaranteed issue rights, and birthday rules where available to win new clients.

Cross-Sell Ancillary Products to Increase Income

Every client interaction is a chance to protect more of their health and finances. Cross-selling not only grows your revenue; it keeps competitors out of your book.

Products to focus on this AEP:

• Hospital Indemnity Plans – Cover MA plan hospital copays and reduce client financial stress.
• Cancer, Heart & Stroke Policies – Offer lump-sum protection for serious illness expenses.
• Dental, Vision & Hearing Plans – Fill in coverage gaps Original Medicare doesn’t touch.
• Final Expense Life Insurance – Help clients plan for end-of-life costs and leave a legacy.

Watch a YouTube video – Why and how to sell ancillary with Medicare in 5 minutes

Strengthen Client Retention with Education

AEP isn’t just about selling — it’s about proving you’re the trusted Medicare expert year-round.

• Send an AEP prep email or postcard to let clients know you’ll review their coverage.
• Host a quick webinar or local seminar on “What’s New for 2026.”
• Offer annual policy reviews to make sure they’re always in the best plan for their situation.

Education keeps your name top of mind and positions you as the advisor they call before making a move.

The agents who win this AEP will be those who combine client-first service with smart product recommendations. Help with the non-commissionable PDPs and MA plans, but don’t stop there; present Medigap, HDG, and ancillary products that protect your clients’ health and finances while boosting your bottom line.

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Your clients get better coverage, you get stronger renewals, and your book of business grows. That’s a win-win AEP strategy.

The Medigap Birthday Rule: A Unique Opportunity for Medicare Beneficiaries

If you or your clients have a Medicare Supplement plan (Medigap), there’s a little-known rule that can save money and improve coverage and it’s called the Medigap Birthday Rule. This rule is an excellent opportunity for beneficiaries to switch Medigap plans without going through medical underwriting, but it only applies in certain states and during a very specific timeframe. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is the Medigap Birthday Rule

The Medigap Birthday Rule is a state-level regulation that allows Medicare beneficiaries to switch to another Medigap plan with equal or lesser benefits each year around their birthday, without answering health questions or going through medical underwriting.

Normally, after the initial Medigap open enrollment period (which happens when someone first signs up for Medicare Part B), switching Medigap plans could require underwriting; meaning the insurance company can deny coverage or charge more based on health history. The Birthday Rule removes that barrier, making it easier for people to shop for a better premium or a different carrier’s plan.

How the Rule Works

The details of the rule depend on the state you live in, but generally:

• Eligibility: You must already have a Medigap plan in place.
• When You Can Switch: You have a short window each year, usually starting on your birthday (some states give you up to 60 days, others 30).
• What You Can Switch To: You can move to a Medigap plan with the same or lesser benefits; for example, switching from Plan G with one company to Plan G with another, or from Plan F to Plan N.
• No Underwriting: You don’t have to answer health questions, so pre-existing conditions won’t prevent you from switching.

Watch our YouTube video on Medicare Supplement underwriting

States That Offer the Birthday Rule

As of 2025, the Medigap Birthday Rule is available in several states, including:

• California
• Oregon
• Illinois
• Nevada
• Idaho
• Louisiana
• Kentucky (newer version of the rule)

Each state’s version is slightly different, so it’s essential to check the exact length of the switching window and eligibility criteria.

Why the Birthday Rule Matters

For beneficiaries, this rule can mean:

• Lower Premiums: Shop for the same coverage at a better price.
• More Carrier Choices: If you’re unhappy with your current insurer, you can switch without worrying about being declined.
• Guaranteed Access: People with health issues who might otherwise be denied coverage can still change plans.

Tips for Agents

If you’re a Medicare agent, the Medigap Birthday Rule is a perfect client retention opportunity:

• Reach out proactively before a client’s birthday to review their coverage.
• Shop carriers and rates to see if they can save money without losing benefits.
• Build trust by showing clients you’re looking out for their financial well-being.

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This annual touchpoint can strengthen your book of business and help you stay top-of-mind with clients.

The Medigap Birthday Rule is a valuable consumer protection that gives beneficiaries a yearly chance to make their coverage more affordable; no health questions asked. If you or your clients live in a state that offers it, don’t miss this opportunity. Mark those birthdays on the calendar and be ready to take advantage of this unique enrollment period.

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Why Sell Critical Illness Insurance

When it comes to protecting clients from financial hardship, health coverage alone isn’t always enough. The big question is; why sell critical illness insurance. The answer is: as an insurance agent, you already know the cost of a serious illness can go far beyond hospital bills. That’s where this insurance comes in. Offering this valuable coverage to your clients not only strengthens their financial safety net, but also helps your business grow.

What Is Critical Illness Insurance

Critical illness insurance is a supplemental policy that provides a lump-sum cash benefit if the policyholder is diagnosed with a covered illness such as:

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Cancer
• Organ failure
• Major surgery

Unlike health insurance, which pays doctors and hospitals, critical illness insurance puts money directly in your client’s hands to spend however they need.

Why Agents Should Offer It

Fill a Major Coverage Gap

Even clients with excellent health insurance can face substantial out-of-pocket costs; deductibles, co-pays, non-covered treatments, travel expenses for care, and lost income during recovery. Critical illness benefits can bridge that gap, giving clients peace of mind.

Protect Clients’ Financial Well-Being

A major diagnosis can derail a family’s finances. This coverage can help with:

• Mortgage or rent payments
• Childcare
• Utility bills
• Transportation to treatment
• Alternative or experimental treatments not covered by insurance

Helping your clients plan for these “hidden” costs builds trust and shows you care about their full financial picture.

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Create a New Revenue Stream

Critical illness policies are generally affordable and easy to quote. Adding them to your portfolio can boost your sales without requiring significant additional effort. Many carriers offer simplified underwriting and electronic applications, making the process smooth for both you and your clients.

Cross-Sell Opportunities

Critical illness coverage is a natural add-on for clients purchasing:

• Health insurance
• Medicare Advantage or Supplement plans
• Life insurance
• Disability income insurance

By bundling solutions, you create a comprehensive protection plan and increase client retention.

Watch a quick YouTube video on why sell ancillary products with Medicare

Stand Out from Competitors

Many agents overlook supplemental health products. Offering critical illness insurance shows that you go beyond the basics and are committed to providing complete risk protection for your clients.

Positioning Critical Illness Insurance with Clients

When discussing this coverage, focus on real-life scenarios and emphasize flexibility:

• “If you were diagnosed with cancer tomorrow, would you have enough savings to cover your expenses while you focus on getting better?”
• “This policy gives you cash you can use however you want – not just on medical bills.”

Simple, empathetic conversations often lead to meaningful sales.

Selling critical illness insurance is more than an opportunity to increase commissions – it’s a way to help clients face one of life’s biggest challenges with confidence. By offering this coverage, you can:

• Strengthen your client relationships
• Provide real financial security
• Build a more resilient, profitable business

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Helping clients prepare for the unexpected is what great agents do. Critical illness insurance is an essential piece of that puzzle.

Compliant Medicare Sales Events: A Guide for Agents

Hosting Medicare sales events is a powerful way to educate beneficiaries, build trust, and grow your Medicare business; but compliance must always come first. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has strict rules about how these events are marketed, set up, and conducted. We go over how to conduct compliant Medicare sales events, Staying compliant protects you from regulatory issues, safeguards beneficiaries, and helps maintain carrier confidence in working with you.

Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Event

Start by deciding what kind of event best serves your audience:

• Formal Sales Events – Structured, scheduled presentations where you review plan-specific information with an invited audience.
• Informal Sales Events – More casual setups, like a table, booth, kiosk, or RV, where you only share plan information if a beneficiary asks for it.

Your choice will determine how you promote the event and the materials you’ll need.

Step 2: Select the Time and Location

After choosing the event type, decide when and where to host it. CMS requires that all sales events:

• Be registered with the carriers you are representing before adverting for it.
• Be held in a public setting where beneficiaries are not actively receiving health care services.

Approved locations include:

• Common entryways and vestibules
• Waiting rooms
• Hospital or nursing home cafeterias
• Community, recreational, or conference rooms

These locations are considered neutral spaces that allow beneficiaries to attend without disrupting care.

Step 3: Market Your Event the Right Way

How you advertise is just as important as what you present. CMS has specific rules for marketing Medicare sales events:

• No mandatory RSVPs – You cannot require attendees to provide personal contact information just to attend.
• Use accurate language – Don’t label the event “educational,” since educational events have different compliance rules. Instead, disclose which products or plans you’ll discuss.
• Include all required disclaimers – Every flyer, invitation, ad, or mailer must include:
  • “Not affiliated with or endorsed by the government or federal Medicare program.”
  • The accommodation statement: “For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings call [insert phone and TTY number].”

If your event involves marketing Medicare Advantage or Part D plans, you must also include the appropriate TPMO (Third-Party Marketing Organization) disclaimer on all event materials:

• If you market fewer than all plans in the area: “We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [insert number of organizations] organizations which offer [insert number of plans] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.”
• If you market all plans in the area: “Currently we represent [insert number of organizations] organizations which offer [insert number of plans] products in your area. You can always contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) for help with plan choices.”

You can promote your event online, through direct mail, social media, or other media channels, just ensure all ads are carrier-approved and compliant.

Step 4: Handling Cancellations

Life happens. You may need to cancel an event due to a family emergency, weather conditions, or other business priorities.

While CMS does not require sales event cancellations to be submitted through HPMS, you should follow these best practices (and your carrier’s policies):

• Notify the carrier or FMO as soon as possible.
• Post a cancellation notice at the event location if feasible.
• If attendees preregistered, notify them promptly through phone, email, or mail.
• Reschedule when appropriate and advertise the new date clearly.

Clear communication helps maintain your professionalism and demonstrates respect for beneficiaries’ time.

Step 5: Run a Compliant Event

Once your event begins, compliance remains front and center:

• Use only CMS-approved materials – Benefit highlights, plan comparisons, and enrollment forms must be pre-approved.
• Stay unbiased and low-pressure – Present information clearly and allow attendees to make their own decisions.
• Provide optional sign-in sheets – Attendees must never be required to share personal information.
• Read required disclaimers at the start – Identify the plans you represent, note that other plans may be available, and clarify that attendance does not obligate enrollment.
• Document everything – Keep a record of your event details, materials used, and sign-in sheets (if any) in case of a CMS audit.

Visit our YouTube channel and review the Medicare AEP marketing rules

Why Compliance Matters

Compliance ensures beneficiaries receive accurate information without feeling pressured. It also protects you from regulatory violations and maintains your reputation as a professional, trustworthy agent.

Tips for a Successful Event

• Prepare and rehearse – A smooth, professional delivery builds credibility.
• Know your material – Be ready to answer common Medicare questions with confidence.
• Engage attendees – Allow time for Q&A and use simple examples to explain benefits.
• Follow up responsibly – Only contact beneficiaries who gave permission to be called.

Stay up-to-date on Medicare agent events and information

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Compliant Medicare sales events not only meet regulatory standards — they build trust, improve client relationships, and set you apart as a professional. By marketing correctly, including the right disclaimers, handling cancellations professionally, and following CMS rules during the event, you’ll grow your business while staying protected.

What Is a Medicare Authorized Representative

Navigating Medicare can sometimes feel overwhelming; especially when it comes to forms, appeals, or plan decisions. That’s where a Medicare Authorized Representative comes in. If you need help dealing with Medicare, you can officially appoint someone to act on your behalf. But what is a Medicare authorized representative, and what are the limits to their authority? Let’s break it down.

What Is a Medicare Authorized Representative

A Medicare Authorized Representative is a person you choose to act for you in handling certain Medicare matters. You can name a trusted family member, friend, caregiver, or even a professional (like an attorney) to represent you.

To make this official, Medicare requires you to complete the “Appointment of Representative” form (CMS-1696) or provide a written statement that includes specific details. Once approved, Medicare recognizes this person as your representative for the issues you’ve specified.

What an Authorized Representative Can Do

When properly appointed, your authorized representative can:

• Communicate with Medicare on your behalf – including discussing claims, coverage, and appeals.
• File appeals or grievances – if you disagree with a coverage or payment decision.
• Submit plan enrollment or disenrollment requests – depending on your needs.
• Receive notices and correspondence from Medicare related to your case.
• Help you gather and send supporting documentation for appeals or claims.

Essentially, your representative steps into your shoes for specific Medicare-related matters, making the process less stressful for you.

What an Authorized Representative Cannot Do

It’s important to understand the limits of this role. A Medicare Authorized Representative cannot:

• Make medical decisions for you – They are not the same as a healthcare proxy or power of attorney for medical treatment.
• Automatically handle all financial or legal matters – Their authority is limited to Medicare issues.
• Act indefinitely without renewal – Representation typically applies to specific cases or timeframes and may need renewal if ongoing.
• Override your wishes – You remain in control, and you can revoke their authority at any time.

If you want someone to handle broader decisions about your finances or healthcare beyond Medicare, you would need a power of attorney or similar legal document.

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How to Appoint a Representative

1. Fill out Form CMS-1696 – This form is available on Medicare.gov or from your plan.
2. Submit the form – Send it to your Medicare Advantage, Part D, or other Medicare-related plan, or directly to Medicare if it’s about Original Medicare.
3. Wait for confirmation – Once accepted, your representative can begin acting on your behalf.

Why Appointing a Representative Can Help

Having a Medicare Authorized Representative can be especially useful if:

• You’re appealing a denial of coverage.
• You need help managing the paperwork.
• You have a trusted advocate who understands your situation.
• You want extra peace of mind that someone is handling your case correctly.

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Bottom line: A Medicare Authorized Representative is your advocate in dealing with Medicare, but their authority is limited to Medicare-related issues. They can help with forms, appeals, and communication, but they cannot make medical decisions or handle unrelated legal or financial matters.

Why Sell Life Insurance

For insurance professionals, adding life insurance to your portfolio is one of the smartest career moves you can make. Why sell life insurance; it’s not only a product in high demand, it’s also a powerful way to add income, expand and your client base. It has the ability to help build a business that provides stability for years to come.

High Demand Creates Opportunities

Life insurance isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Every stage of life presents a need for coverage, from young families protecting their income, to seniors planning for final expenses, to business owners securing succession plans. This universal demand means a steady stream of prospects and opportunities for sales.

High Commissions and Residual Income

One of the biggest advantages of life insurance sales is the income potential. Many carriers pay competitive first-year commissions on policies, and renewals can create residual income year after year. By maintaining strong client relationships and policy retention, you’re rewarded with ongoing revenue without starting from scratch each year.

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Expand Your Cross-Selling Potential

Selling life insurance opens the door to other products and services. Once you’ve earned a client’s trust with life insurance, you can position yourself as their go-to advisor for Medicare plans, annuities, long-term care, or other ancillary products. Every life insurance policy can become the foundation for a long-term client relationship and additional sales.

Build a Referral Network

When you provide families with peace of mind and financial security, you naturally create satisfied clients who are willing to refer friends and loved ones. Referrals are one of the strongest ways to grow your business, and life insurance sales generate them consistently.

A Recession-Resistant Career

In uncertain economic times, financial protection becomes more important, not less. Families want security and businesses need continuity. Selling life insurance puts you in a resilient market that remains in demand regardless of the economy.

Watch a YouTube video on Life Insurance Quoting and Sales

Professional Growth and Authority

Life insurance agents often become more than salespeople; they become trusted financial advisors. By helping clients understand coverage options, needs analysis, and long-term planning, you elevate your credibility and position yourself as an expert in your community.

Make a Meaningful Impact While Building Wealth

Yes, life insurance sales can provide significant income and residuals, but it also gives you the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a difference. Few careers allow you to both grow your wealth and leave a lasting positive impact on the lives of your clients.

Selling life insurance is one of the most profitable and sustainable opportunities in the insurance industry. It offers agents strong commissions, renewals, cross-selling opportunities, and a career path that is both financially rewarding and personally fulfilling.

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If you’re looking for a way to grow your book of business and secure long-term income, life insurance is a product you can’t afford to overlook.

Levels of D-SNP Eligibility Explained for Medicare Clients

Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) are Medicare Advantage plans designed for people who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. These plans can be a tremendous help to clients who have limited income and resources, but understanding the levels of DSNP eligibility and plan types can sometimes be confusing.

As of 2025, understanding the levels of D-SNP eligibility and how they connect to different plan structures is more important than ever for agents. Here’s a simplified breakdown.

Full vs. Partial Dual Eligibility

Full Dual Eligible Members

• Who qualifies
  Clients in categories such as Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Plus (QMB+), Specified Low-Income Beneficiary Plus (SLMB+), or Full Benefit Dual Eligible (FBDE).
• What does this mean
  These are individuals with the highest financial or health-related needs. States decide who qualifies, often based on strict income, asset, or disability requirements.
• Why it matters in 2025:
  Only full dual members can use the monthly D-SNP Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if there’s a HIDE or FIDE plan in their area.

Partial Dual Eligible Members

• Who qualifies
  Categories include Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB), Specified Low-Income Beneficiary (SLMB), Qualified Individual (QI), and Qualified Disabled Working Individual (QDWI).
• What does this mean?
  These members get some help with Medicare costs, such as Part B premiums, but they do not qualify for full Medicaid benefits.
• Why it matters:
  Partial duals can join certain D-SNPs, but they don’t have access to the monthly SEP; only the regular Medicare enrollment windows (AEP, OEP).

Watch a YouTube video on DSNP Changes for 2025

Types of D-SNPs

D-SNPs are also categorized by how much Medicare and Medicaid benefits are integrated. Here’s what agents should know:

• Highly Integrated D-SNP (HIDE):
  • Covers Medicaid services such as behavioral health or long-term services and supports (LTSS).
  • As of 2025, the Medicaid contract must cover the D-SNP’s entire service area.
• Fully Integrated D-SNP (FIDE):
  • Combines both Medicare and Medicaid under one entity.
  • Must include primary and acute Medicaid services, plus LTSS (at least 180 days of nursing facility coverage).
  • Offers the highest level of integration and coordination between Medicare and Medicaid benefits.
• Applicable Integrated Plan (AIP):
  • A FIDE or HIDE plan with exclusively aligned enrollment.
  • Works directly with Medicaid managed care organizations tied to the D-SNP’s parent company.
• Coordination-Only D-SNP (CO):
  • Meets CMS minimum requirements but doesn’t integrate as fully as HIDE or FIDE plans.
  • Still required to coordinate Medicare and Medicaid services and share information between programs.
• Exclusively Aligned Enrollment (EAE):
  • Limits enrollment to full duals whose Medicaid is through the same company that operates the D-SNP.
  • Allows for better integration (single ID card, unified appeals and grievances, simplified materials).

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Why This Matters for Agents

• Enrollment rules are changing. As of 2025, only full duals with HIDE or FIDE plans in their service area can use the monthly SEP.
• Integration levels affect care. The more integrated the plan (like FIDE or HIDE), the easier it is for clients to navigate benefits and reduce confusion.
• Educating clients builds trust. Explaining eligibility clearly helps clients understand why they qualify (or don’t) for certain plans and enrollment periods.

The levels of D-SNP eligibility; full vs. partial, determine not just what benefits clients receive but also when they can enroll. On top of that, the type of D-SNP (HIDE, FIDE, CO, AIP) affects how well Medicare and Medicaid benefits work together.

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For agents, simplifying these distinctions is key. By guiding clients through their eligibility level and helping them choose the right type of D-SNP, you can ensure they get the maximum financial protection and coordinated care available.

United American HDG Plan Sales – Why Consider Them This AEP

Why Add UA Now

The Annual Election Period (AEP) for Medicare runs each year from October 15 through December 7. It’s the window when beneficiaries can enroll in, switch, or drop Medicare plans. With all the changes to Medicare plans this year, agents might want to consider United American HDG Plan Sales.

What is a High-Deductible Plan G (HDG)

United American’s HDG plan offers the same benefits as a standard Plan G after enrollees meet the deductible ($2,870 in 2025). That means once the deductible is met, the plan pays 100% of Medicare-approved services, including:

• Hospital costs and Part A coinsurance
• Skilled nursing facility coverage
• Part A deductible
• Part B coinsurance and excess charges
• 80% of foreign travel emergencies

Because of the higher deductible, monthly premiums are significantly lower, making HDG an attractive choice for cost-conscious beneficiaries.

Watch a quick YouTube video on High Deductible Plan G

Why choose United American’s HDG plan this AEP

Fewer Medicare Advantage options, especially PPOs

Carriers are withdrawing some Medicare Advantage plans from the market, particularly PPOs, and many agents are reporting fewer plan choices this AEP. In some areas, commissions on Medicare Advantage plans are also being reduced or eliminated. For beneficiaries who want stability, freedom of provider choice, and nationwide access, an HDG plan offers an excellent alternative.

Great value for cost-conscious consumers

HDG balances affordability and coverage; lower monthly premiums without sacrificing comprehensive protection once the enrollee meets the deductible.

Nationwide flexibility

Unlike Medicare Advantage, which often restricts members to networks, United American’s HDG allows you to visit any provider that accepts Original Medicare, with coverage that travels across state lines.

Financial strength and trust

United American has been selling Medicare Supplements since 1966 and maintains strong financial ratings, including an A (Excellent) from A.M. Best. Their history of stability reassures clients looking for long-term reliability.

Consumer-friendly features

Guaranteed renewable: You can’t be canceled as long as premiums are paid.

30-day free-look period: Cancel within 30 days if not satisfied.

Switching flexibility: Start with HDG and, at your second anniversary, move to a standard Plan G without underwriting if you decide you want richer coverage.

Why HDG makes sense in today’s market

With Medicare Advantage options shrinking, especially PPOs, and rising uncertainty in benefits and provider access, many beneficiaries are reconsidering Medigap. HDG is a way to:

• Keep premiums affordable
• Retain freedom to choose providers nationwide
• Have peace of mind that coverage won’t change annually the way MA plans often do

Sample Comparison: Is HDG Worth It

• High Deductible Plan G: Lower monthly premium, pay the $2,870 deductible first, then full coverage.
• Standard Plan G: Higher premiums, but no deductible. Total yearly cost could be higher even with no deductible, depending on your health needs and provider use.

If saving on monthly cost is a priority—and you’re able to manage the deductible if needed—HDG offers strong value, especially during this AEP when you have the flexibility to enroll.

GET CONTRACTED

Contracting for UA is easy; just email lisa@croweandassociates.com, she will request the contract for you.  Those looking for a GA level contract will need to have a minimum of 5 sub agents and 100 Medicare supplement cases on the books. Call our office at 203-796-5403 with any additional questions.

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This AEP presents a unique opportunity. With fewer Medicare Advantage choices and increasing restrictions, United American’s High-Deductible Plan G stands out as a cost-effective, flexible, and stable solution. For beneficiaries who value freedom of choice, reliable coverage, and the ability to control their long-term costs, HDG is a smart move this enrollment season.

Why Offer Medicare HDG Plans

The question; why offer Medicare HDG Plans, because the Medicare market is changing rapidly. Agents must stay ahead of the curve to remain successful. Many major carriers are scaling back their Medicare Advantage (MA) offerings and even cutting commissions on some plans. This leaves agents with fewer options to present to clients. This is where HDG Plans can make all the difference.

The Current Landscape of Medicare Advantage

In recent years, Medicare Advantage has been one of the most popular plan options among seniors. However, for the last couple years, carriers are:

• Pulling plans from the market – especially PPOs, which have traditionally been popular for their provider flexibility.
• Reducing commissions – some carriers are paying no commission on certain MA products, leaving agents with fewer options to offer.
• Tightening supplemental benefits – carriers are scaling back some of the extra benefits that once attracted clients, making MA plans less competitive.

For agents, this creates a challenge: how do you provide value to your clients while maintaining a sustainable business model?

Click here to join the team at Crowe and Associates- online contract.

Why HDG Health Plans Stand Out

HDG Health Plans provide a strong alternative that agents should be offering. Here’s why:

1. Plan Stability

Unlike some Medicare Advantage carriers that are exiting markets or restructuring benefits, HDG Health Plans are built for long-term stability. This ensures agents can confidently enroll clients without worrying about sudden disruptions.

2. Expanded Client Options

As carriers discontinue PPOs and other MA plans, seniors need reliable choices that meet their healthcare and financial needs. HDG offers products that can help fill the gaps left by Original Medicare. This gives agents a competitive edge in retaining and growing their book of business.

3. Consistent Compensation

With some carriers cutting or eliminating commissions on MA plans, agents need products that continue to provide fair, reliable compensation. HDG Health Plans recognize the value of the agent’s role and support them with commission structures that make sense.

4. Strong Value Proposition for Clients

Carriers design HDG Plans with seniors in mind, balancing affordability, access to care, and flexibility. This makes them attractive alternatives for clients who may be frustrated with shrinking MA networks or reduced plan options.

5. Ability to seek care from most providers

Unlike MA plans, Medicare supplements allow the enrollee to seek care form any provider that accepts Medicare. This can be a huge advantage to any enrollee.

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The Opportunity for Agents

As the Medicare market shifts, agents who adapt quickly will come out ahead. By offering HDG Health Plans, agents can:

• Differentiate themselves from competitors still relying heavily on shrinking MA offerings.
• Provide solutions to clients facing plan cancellations or limited coverage options.
• Build a more stable book of business with products that pay fairly and retain members long-term.

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The Medicare Advantage space is in transition, and relying solely on it may leave both agents and clients at a disadvantage. By incorporating HDG Health Plans into your portfolio, you can protect your business, serve your clients more effectively, and position yourself as a trusted advisor during a time of change.

Now is the time to diversify your offerings, and HDG Health Plans should be at the top of your list.