Joe Knows Football, I Know Medicare

I’ve been getting a lot of questions about the commercial the famous football players do about Medicare. You know the ones I’m talking about. You’re about to start seeing them even more than you already do. Let me clarify some of the misleading information. 

The first question I get is usually, “How do I get in a plan that puts $145 back in my Social Security account.” 

You don’t. 

Most of you. 

What that is referring to is a program called MEDICAID. If you are in a low-income bracket and QUALIFY FOR MEDICAID IN YOUR STATE, YOUR STATE Medicaid will pay some or all of your Part B Medicare Premium which happens to be $148.50 this year. Insurance companies or their plans have nothing to do with this. 

So, when you call “Joe Namath” or “Joe Theismann” you will be asked what zip code you live in and what your annual income is. They’ll then tell you that you aren’t qualified for the program or that it’s not available in your area.

Are there some plans that do a Plan B Giveback? Yes. Some insurance companies offer between $20-$50 a month in some of their plans, but this varies by Insurance Company, Plan, State, and sometimes even county. There is ONE Plan, in Florida, that pays back that entire Part B Premium. (The plan has many holes including a lack of doctors in their network, but that’s a story for another day.) THIS is how they can legally say, “Plans may not be available in all areas.”

PLEASE be careful. Never give your Social Security Number or Medicare number to someone who is going to run a quote for you. They don’t need that info to run a quote.

Also, please talk to a local agent who knows your area, your doctors, your hospitals, and YOU. Of course, I would love that to be me, but if it’s not me, please find a licensed, reputable, local agent who will be accountable to you.

Oh, and here is the disclaimer on the Joe Namath commercial that you really can’t see because you’re too busy listening and seeing all the big words on the screen:

*Certain beneficiaries may qualify for help paying their Part B Premium ($144 per month as of 2020, $1,728 annually) as part of each State’s Medicaid/or Medical Assistance Program. GoHealth assists beneficiaries with applications and initial eligibility screening, but only the relevant state agency may determine eligibility. Provision of financial information to GoHealth is optional and does not affect enrollment eligibility. Residents of certain regions may also qualify for a Part B Buyback Plan covering up to $135 of the Part B Premium."

Robin Tefft is a licensed health and life insurance agent who specializes in Medicare...Your New Jersey Medicare Specialist. To get in touch, you can download my digital business card HERE. Or visit my website where you can get quotes on the plans available in your area - no cost or obligation. MyMedicareNJ.com 

Better yet, give me a call, and let's talk! 609-379-2887.