Why do some agents push Medicare Advantage plans over Medigap-should I be skeptical?
Answered by 34 licensed agents
Answered by Steven Bleicher on April 27, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ
Answered by Tony Capraro III on June 30, 2025
Agent Licensed in NH & ME
Answered by Gary Church on May 19, 2025
Broker Licensed in Ca, AZ, NV & TX
Answered by Mark Maliwauki on May 23, 2025
Broker Licensed in ID, AZ, CA & 15 other states
Answered by Joseph Bachmeier on March 25, 2025
Agent Licensed in PA, AZ, DE & 5 other states
Why Some Agents Focus on Medicare Advantage:
Medicare Advantage plans often have lower or $0 premiums and extra benefits like dental, vision, and fitness programs, which can be attractive.
They may earn different commissions based on the plan, but ethical agents prioritize your best interest.
What a Trustworthy Agent Will Do:
Assess your health, budget, lifestyle, and future plans carefully
Recommend either Medicare Advantage, Medigap, or Original Medicare with Part D—whichever offers the best overall value and coverage for you
Explain the pros and cons of each option clearly so you can make an informed choice
Bottom line:
Don’t be skeptical of all agents, but do choose one who listens and focuses on your personal needs—not just what’s easiest to sell.
If you want, I can help you review options objectively and find the right plan for you. Would you like to discuss? Medicare4USA.com 214-989-7900
Answered by Steven Graves on July 1, 2025
Agent Licensed in TX
Answered by Charles Fletcher on April 4, 2025
Agent Licensed in WA, AZ, ID, NV & TN
Answered by Jonathan Potter on May 19, 2025
Broker Licensed in UT, AZ, CA & 14 other states
Answered by Thomas Ashton on April 2, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 6 other states
Answered by Lauryn Ivey on June 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in AL
On top of that there are changes every year to your plan, networks to deal with, and out-of-pocket maximums that might be higher than you remember when you signed up (do to those annual plan changes).
Be skeptical.
They do fit sometimes, but often people go with them because they are less expensive on a monthly basis.
Answered by Andrew Bennett on May 2, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, GA & VA
Answered by Michael Pyers on May 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH & MI
Answered by Barbara Barnes, CMIP® on June 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in PA
Answered by Michael Yost on April 1, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH, AL, AZ & 27 other states
Higher Commissions:
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans often pay agents higher upfront commissions than Medigap (Supplement) plans — especially in the first year.
No Medical Underwriting:
Advantage plans are guaranteed issue during certain periods, while Medigap may require medical underwriting if you're outside your Open Enrollment. So agents may lean toward what’s easier to get approved.
Bundled Coverage:
Advantage plans often include Part D drug coverage, dental, vision, and extras — so they’re an “all-in-one” pitch that’s easier to explain and sell.
Lack of Training or Licensing:
Some agents aren’t certified or contracted to sell Medigap, so they steer clients to the plans they’re authorized to offer.
Be cautious — but not cynical.
A good agent should educate you on both options:
Medicare Advantage: Lower monthly premiums, but networks, copays, and prior authorization.
Medigap + Part D: Higher monthly cost, but more freedom, fewer out-of-pocket surprises, and no referrals.
If you're not hearing a comparison of both, ask questions or consider getting a second opinion.
Answered by Joshua Ruiz on May 22, 2025
Broker Licensed in NC, AL, AZ & 22 other states
Answered by Christopher Orr on April 28, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, KY, NC & VA
Answered by Don Golding on June 24, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX, AL, AR & 5 other states
Why agents may push Medicare Advantage: Higher commissions: Agents generally earn more for enrolling beneficiaries in Medicare Advantage plans compared to Medigap.
Financial incentives: Brokers & agents have a vested interest in enrolling beneficiaries in Medicare Advantage plans, as they are paid more for doing so.
Marketing & advertising: Medicare Advantage plans are heavily advertised, making them seem appealing with their low premiums & extra benefits.
Perceived ease of enrollment: Some agents may emphasize the simplicity of Medicare Advantage enrollment, potentially overlooking potential drawbacks.
Reasons to be skeptical & do your own research:
Network restrictions: Medicare Advantage plans often have provider networks, which can limit your choice of doctors & hospitals, especially if you travel or prefer specific healthcare providers.
Prior authorization requirements: Medicare Advantage plans may require prior authorization for certain procedures, which can be inconvenient & lead to delays in care.
Potential for hidden costs: While Medicare Advantage plans may have low premiums or no monthly premiums, out-of-pocket costs can still add up, particularly if you use out-of-network providers or have high copays.
Switching difficulties: Switching from a Medicare Advantage plan to Original Medicare with a Medigap plan can be difficult, with potential underwriting issues or denials, especially if you have existing health conditions.
What to do:
Thoroughly research your options:
Don't rely solely on agent recommendations. Compare Medicare Advantage plans and Medigap policies based on your individual health needs, preferences, and financial situation.
Ask questions. Consider a neutral source. Seek Independent advice.
Answered by Fred Manas on May 14, 2025
Agent Licensed in NY, CT, DC & 7 other states
Typically agents are licensed for a handful of companies and will promote just those companies.
I always recommend medigap plans if you can afford it. 100% coverage. whereas Advantage plans have a lot of out of pocket costs and can bankrupt you if you have an elongated illness.
Answered by Gary Henderson on May 23, 2025
Agent Licensed in TX, AK, AL & 46 other states
Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on May 12, 2025
Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 22 other states
However, to be competative, most Medicare Advantage plans offer -$0 premiums monthly, buit-in dental & vision plans and prescription drug plans. A seasoned Broker can provide a low cost Indemnity Plan that can cover all future copays and Out Of Pocket expenses and more.
In the long run, the best plan is the one that's right for you! Give me a call.
Answered by William Scott on June 23, 2025
Broker Licensed in GA, CO, NC, OH, SC & TX
Medigap (Medicare Supplement) has a monthly premium between $100 and $200, on average, and increases every year. If you let it lapse for missing payments, you will go through the underwriting process, should you want to have that coverage back, which frequently leads to higher premiums.
Medicare Advantage (MA) can be of $0 monthly premium with additional benefits that Medigap plans don't have, like vision, dental, hearing, gym clubs, and others.
A licensed agent can provide you with a thorough education and help you make a decision as to what plan will meet your needs and your budget, to avoid regrets. An ethical agent will want to keep you in his book for years, instead of seeking a higher commission.
Answered by Andre Cabral on June 5, 2025
Agent Licensed in NJ
Answered by Aisha Saleem on June 1, 2025
Agent Licensed in MD & FL
Answered by Ross Landon on April 16, 2025
Agent Licensed in UT
Answered by Kelly Linster on May 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in ND, AZ, CO, IA & SD
MA plans suit those seeking affordability, capped max-out-of-pocket expenses, and bundled benefits but come with network limits and prior authorizations. Whereas Medigap provides standardized coverage and nationwide provider access but with a monthly premium on top of the part B cost. Be wary of pushy agents; a good one will compare both to find your best fit, empowering you to choose with confidence!
Answered by Douglas Carney on May 10, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, GA, NC, OK & TX
Answered by Kevin Chaikin on April 14, 2025
Broker Licensed in VA, AL, AZ & 31 other states
Answered by Bud Griffin on June 23, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX
Answered by Gabrielle Sones on May 13, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX, AZ, FL & 7 other states
Remember-- If it sounds too good to be true, it is!
Answered by Jessica Breland on April 14, 2025
Broker Licensed in LA
With that being said, if an agent “pushes” an advantage plan over a Medigap plan, it COULD be for selfish reasons. The advantage plan would have higher compensation for the agent.
Answered by Kip Nussbaum on June 19, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH
A lot depends on if you can afford a the premium of a supplement and a separate prescription drug plan.
Answered by Lowell Ryals on April 7, 2025
Broker Licensed in MO, AR, FL, KS, LA & TX
Answered by Vernon Pate on April 14, 2025
Broker Licensed in AR, MO & OK
Answered by Morgan Luck on May 29, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, AL, AR & 16 other states
Tags: Medicare Advantage
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