Approaching 65? Time for Medigap Insurance Planning to Protect Your Future

Hi there, I’m glad you stopped by. If you’re getting close to 65, it’s time we talk seriously about Medigap insurance. I know Medicare can seem like it covers everything, but the truth is—there are gaps. That’s where this type of insurance comes in. We’ve helped thousands across Illinois get the protection they need, and today I want to walk you through what this coverage really means, how it works, and how Illinois Insurance Center can help you get started without all the confusion.

What Does Medigap Insurance Actually Cover?

So, here’s the plain truth: Original Medicare (Parts A and B) doesn’t pay for everything. That’s where Medigap insurance steps in. It helps cover the out-of-pocket costs that Medicare leaves behind. Think of it like a financial buffer.

That includes things like:

• Deductibles – the money you pay upfront before Medicare pays its share.

• Copayments and coinsurance – your part of the bill every time you visit a doctor or specialist.

• Extended hospital stays – Medicare has limits. If you go past them, Medigap helps pick up the rest.

Some people are surprised when they realize that Medicare doesn’t cover 100% of their health costs. That “donut hole” in coverage, especially when it comes to prescriptions or longer treatments, can really eat into retirement savings.

Why Planning Early for Medigap Insurance Is So Important

Let me give it to you straight: if you wait too long, your options shrink. You’ve got a six-month window after you turn 65 (and have Medicare Part B) to buy Medigap insurance with guaranteed approval. That means no health questions, no penalties, and the best rates you’ll ever get.

Miss that window? Well, things get trickier.

• You might be denied coverage based on your health.
• Your premium might be a lot higher.
• There’s no guarantee an insurance company will accept you.

The earlier you lock in your coverage, the easier it’ll be on your budget and peace of mind.

Can’t Decide Which Medigap Plan to Get?

Let’s clear the air. The government standardizes all Medigap plans, which are labeled with letters like A, B, G, and N. This means Plan G from one company gives you the same benefits as Plan G from another company. The only difference? The cost.

Here’s where Illinois Insurance Center comes in. We shop around for you to make sure you’re not overpaying. Because no one likes paying more for the same thing, right?

Why Higher Medigap Coverage Could Save You Later

Right now, you might feel pretty healthy. Maybe you’re still working, or your savings are in good shape. You’re thinking: “I probably won’t need much coverage.” We hear that a lot.

But let’s look ahead a few years.

• Healthcare costs rise as you get older.

• You may develop conditions that limit your plan choices later.

• In Illinois, the “birthday rule” only lets you switch to equal or lower coverage, not better plans.

That means if you start with a low-coverage plan, you might be stuck with it—even if your health changes and you need more support. We’ve seen it happen, and we don’t want it to happen to you.

Who Needs Medigap Insurance the Most?

We’re going to be honest—Medigap insurance isn’t optional for most people. It’s not a luxury; it’s a need.

• If you’re retiring at 65, you’ll need backup to cover what Medicare doesn’t.

• If you’re planning to travel in retirement, Medigap may help with foreign emergency coverage.

• If you live on a fixed income, unexpected out-of-pocket costs can create serious stress.

Our team at Illinois Insurance Center has helped people from all walks of life find a Medigap plan that fits. We’ve worked with residents from the city and suburbs alike, including insurance in Chicago, IL and insurance in Naperville, IL—and we can help you too.

Don’t Have Medicare Yet? Here’s What to Expect

You’ll need to sign up for Medicare Part A and Part B before you can buy Medigap insurance. Once that’s squared away, we can get to work.

We’ll:

• Walk you through which plan fits your situation.
• Compare different companies to get you the best rate.
• Help with the paperwork so nothing falls through the cracks.

It’s not about selling you the biggest plan—it’s about finding the right plan for your life, health, and budget. Whether you’re in a small town or a city like Rockford, IL, we make the process easy.

What If You Already Missed the Open Window?

All is not lost—but we’ve got to act smart. You can still apply for a Medigap plan, but now the insurance company may ask health questions. That’s where our experience really matters.

If you:

• Lost employer coverage after 65
• Moved out of a Medicare Advantage plan’s service area
• Are within a trial period for a Medicare Advantage switch

…you might qualify for a special enrollment window. That’s something we can walk you through step by step.

More Than Just Medigap—We’ve Got You Covered

At Illinois Insurance Center, we don’t stop at just Medigap insurance. Once you’re covered, we can help protect the rest of your life, too.

Here’s a quick look at other insurance we help with:

• Commercial Auto Insurance: If you’re still running a small business or using your vehicle for work, this protects your wheels and wallet.

• Homeowners Insurance: We’ll make sure your home is protected, whether you live in Joliet, IL or down the road from us.

• Business Insurance: Got a side hustle or family business? Keep it safe with the right policy.

• Life Insurance: It’s never too late to plan for your family’s future.

• Contractor Insurance: Still on the job? We’ve got the right coverage to protect your work and tools.

We proudly serve the entire state—from Aurora, IL to Chicago, IL, from Naperville, IL to Rockford, IL—and we’re just a phone call away.

Frequently Asked Questions About Medigap Insurance

1. What’s the difference between Medigap and Medicare Advantage?
   Medigap works with Original Medicare to cover extra costs. Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare with a private plan.

2. When is the best time to get Medigap insurance?
   During the six months after you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B.

3. Can I switch Medigap plans later?
   Yes, but only to a plan with equal or less coverage unless you qualify for a special period.

4. Do Medigap plans cover prescriptions?
   Not anymore. You’ll need a separate Part D plan for drug coverage.

5. Can I be denied coverage?
   Yes, if you apply outside the open enrollment period and don’t meet health requirements.

6. Are all Medigap plans the same?
   Yes, by letter. Plan G is the same no matter the company, but prices vary.

7. How much does Medigap cost?
   It depends on the plan and your age, but we can help you compare prices.

8. What happens if I move?
   Your Medigap plan moves with you, unless you’re in Medicare Advantage. We help update it if needed.

9. Can I have Medigap and Medicaid?
   Usually no. Medicaid pays many of the costs Medigap would cover.

10. How do I apply for Medigap?
    Call Illinois Insurance Center at (708) 524-4900 or visit our Contact Page. We’ll handle the rest.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait to Secure Your Medigap Insurance

Here’s the bottom line—Medigap insurance can protect your savings, your peace of mind, and your access to care. But timing matters. Waiting too long can limit your choices or raise your costs. Whether you’re just starting to think about Medicare or already sorting through your options, Illinois Insurance Center is ready to help.

We’ll sit down with you—just like we’ve done with your neighbors in Aurora, Joliet, and Naperville—and find a plan that fits your life. Give us a call today at (708) 524-4900 or reach out through our Contact Page. Let’s make sure your golden years are truly golden.