Frequently Asked Medicare Questions
Plain-English answers to the questions we hear most from Coloradans approaching or already on Medicare.
Common Questions
Questions we get
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window starting 3 months before you turn 65. The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs Oct 15 – Dec 7. The MA Open Enrollment runs Jan 1 – Mar 31. Special Enrollment Periods apply for qualifying life events.
Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare with an all-in-one plan. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) works alongside Original Medicare to cover out-of-pocket costs with freedom to see any Medicare-accepting doctor nationwide.
Many plans have $0 monthly premiums (you still pay Part B). Some include dental, vision, hearing, SilverSneakers, and OTC allowances. We compare every plan in your zip code — free.
Never. We're compensated by carriers, not by you. Unbiased guidance across all 10 carriers — always free.
With Medigap: yes — any Medicare-accepting doctor, nationwide. With Medicare Advantage: typically in-network only. We verify your doctors and prescriptions before recommending a plan.
Permanent penalties. Part B: 10% surcharge per 12 months delayed. Part D: 1% per month without creditable coverage. Use our penalty calculators.
IRMAA is a surcharge on Part B and Part D for higher-income beneficiaries. In 2026, it applies above $109,000 (individual) or $218,000 (joint). See the full table.
A specialist in aging. Darin completed his program at USC's Davis School of Gerontology — the only university with a standalone gerontology program. He anticipates how healthcare needs evolve and plans accordingly.
Plan G: covers nearly everything after $283 deductible. Plan N: lower premiums, small copays. See our full comparison.
Yes. Darin is licensed statewide and we work with people in all 64 Colorado counties, from the Denver metro to the Western Slope, the San Luis Valley and the eastern plains. See our areas we serve.
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Written and reviewed by Darin Weidauer — licensed Colorado insurance agent (NPN 18580338), Gerontologist (USC Davis School of Gerontology), MBA, Registered Social Security Analyst, and U.S. Air Force veteran. Independent and appointed with 10 Colorado carriers.Last reviewed September 2, 2026. Plan availability, benefits and costs change every plan year — verify current details at Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE.