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During the Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP), which is from October 15th through December 7th each year, many people may ask the question, “Do I want a Medicare Advantage Plan or a Medicare Supplement Plan (Medigap)?”
Medicare Advantage, “Part C” plans are offered by private insurance companies. Some plans have a zero $0 premium, some of them have a small premium. If you enroll into a Medicare Advantage Plan (during an enrollment period) you still have Medicare, it’s just that your medical claims will be paid by the private insurance company instead of Medicare.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for Americans 65 or older. Most U.S. citizens earn the right to enroll in Medicare by working and paying their taxes for a minimum required period. Even if you didn’t work long enough to be entitled to Medicare benefits, you may still be eligible to enroll, but you might have to pay more.