Navigating Medicare can be complex, and making informed decisions is crucial to ensure you receive the best coverage for your needs. Here are ten common mistakes people often make when dealing with Medicare, which you may want to avoid:

1. Missing the Initial Enrollment Period: Not signing up for Medicare Part B or Part D when you're first eligible can result in late enrollment penalties that increase your premiums.
   

2. Not Understanding Medicare Part B: Assuming Medicare Part B is automatic for everyone at 65. If you're not receiving Social Security benefits, you will be required to sign up for it.
   

3. Overlooking Medigap Open Enrollment: Failing to buy a Medigap policy during the 6-month open enrollment period after you turn 65 and are enrolled in Part B can lead to higher costs or denial of coverage due to pre-existing conditions.
   

4. Choosing Plans Based Solely on Premiums: Opting for a plan with the lowest premium without considering out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, copays, and coinsurance can be more expensive in the long run.
   

5. Ignoring Plan Networks: Not checking if your healthcare providers are in-network for Medicare Advantage plans can lead to higher out-of-pocket costs.
   

6. Not Reviewing Your Plan Annually: Failing to review and compare your current Medicare Advantage or Part D plans during the Annual Election Period can mean missing out on better coverage or lower costs.
   

7. Forgetting to Sign Up for Part D: Skipping Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage when you first enroll in Medicare can result in a penalty if you decide to join later, unless you have credible drug coverage from another source.
   

8. Not Understanding the Coverage Rules: Not being aware of the rules for coverage, especially for services like skilled nursing facility care, can lead to unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
   

9. Ignoring Assistance Programs: Overlooking programs that can help with Medicare costs, such as Medicaid, the Medicare Savings Program, and the Extra Help subsidy for Part D.
   

10. Not Seeking Professional Advice: Trying to navigate Medicare on your own without seeking help from a Medicare counselor or a licensed professional can lead to costly mistakes. We do not charge anything for our service so the best is to contact a licensed, skilled agent that can help you navigate the system.
    

Being aware of these common pitfalls and taking the time to understand your options can help you make more informed decisions about your Medicare coverage.