Linda Pieters, Medicare Insurance Agent

About Me

I’m an independent Medicare agent offering personalized guidance at no cost, focused on making Medicare easier to understand. Because everyone’s situation is unique, I take the time to listen and learn about your needs before reviewing your enrollment options together.

If you’re new to Medicare, I provide Medicare 101 education which is an overview of how Medicare works, including Parts A, B, C, and D, what they cover, when to enroll, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

By working with me during enrollment, you’ll have a trusted advocate year-round, here to help with any questions or concerns.

Get in touch with Linda using this form

Q&A with Linda Pieters

How to sign up for A & B?

Answer: The Social Security website is the correct place to sign up for Medicare Part A and Part B, and creating a my Social Security account makes it easier to access the online enrollment path.

Once you’re logged in, SSA indicates you can start the application by selecting “Sign up for Medicare” and then “Apply online.” SSA also provides a separate page for people who only need Part B.

What are the reasons why I should work with a Medicare agent?

Answer: A Medicare agent’s main role is to educate you on the government’s Original Medicare program, including when to enroll, what Medicare covers, and the costs associated with the program. Based on your healthcare needs and budget, they can help determine which coverage path and plan may best fit your situation.

When you enroll through an agent, they also serve as your advocate throughout the year by helping review plan changes, addressing coverage concerns, and assisting when healthcare needs evolve over time.

The best part is that working with a Medicare agent is typically a no-fee service, as agents are compensated by the insurance carriers rather than by the client. The cost of the plans is generally the same whether you enroll directly with the insurance company or work with a Medicare agent.

What is the trap of Medicare Advantage plans?

Answer: One potential “trap” of choosing a Medicare Advantage plan at age 65 is that it may be harder later to switch to a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan if health conditions develop and medical underwriting is required.

Medicare Advantage plans are network-based and typically require you to use local doctors and facilities within the plan’s network. They generally have lower monthly premiums and include extra benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, and prescription coverage, but members pay copays and other out-of-pocket costs as services are used.

Medicare Supplement plans usually have higher monthly premiums but offer greater provider flexibility and more predictable healthcare costs.