The Hidden Reason Your Costs Change Even When You Don’t
If you’ve ever opened your Annual Notice of Change and thought, “Wait, why is my premium higher when I didn’t do anything?” — you’re not alone.
Now, Here’s Where It Becomes Confusing
Medicare itself doesn’t change every year. When discussing Original Medicare — Parts A and B —the only things that change are the deductibles and coinsurance that apply.
If someone has a Medigap plan (Supplement), the only changes you’ll see are typically to the premium for the plan. You will not receive an Annual Notice of Change, but instead a premium increase or decrease letter for the new year.
The plans that do change every year are the Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) and Standalone Prescription Drug Plans (Part D).
Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans:
Even if you stay in the same plan, the plan doesn’t stay the same.
Every year, carriers adjust:
- Premiums
- Co-pays and deductibles
- Doctor networks
- Drug formularies
- Extra benefits (OTC, dental, etc.)
Tip:
Every fall, review your ANOC (Annual Notice of Change) letter.
If your prescriptions, doctors, or budget have changed — or the plan itself has — it might be time to switch during AEP.
The Bottom Line
Your health and your plans evolve — that’s why every fall is your chance to realign coverage with your life.
Doreen Marino | 65+ Insurance Solutions |
www.dmarinomedicare.com
