Wisdom Wednesday: Insider Medicare Secrets from 40 Years of Experience

Welcome to Real Easy Medicare’s Wisdom Wednesday with Al Kushner! In this expert-level episode, Al reveals advanced strategies and hidden rules that only decades of Medicare experience can teach.

1. Medigap Guaranteed Rights
   • 63-day guaranteed Medigap enrollment after losing creditable coverage, even years later
   • “Trial right” to test Medicare Advantage for 12 months with risk-free return to Original Medicare
2. State-Specific Protections
   • California’s Birthday Rule: annual Medigap plan changes without underwriting during your birth month
3. Advanced Part D Tactics
   • Delay Part D penalty-free with creditable drug coverage from employers, unions, VA, or state programs
   • Leverage the new actual out-of-pocket cap ($2,000) and adjust the timing of high-cost medications.
4. Plan Switching Windows
   • Part D changes only from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7 OEP; MA-to-MA Open Enrollment Jan. 1–Mar. 31
   • SEP rights when providers leave MA networks and star-rating enrollment escape routes
5. Premium Suspension & Coordination
   • Suspend Part B when returning to employer coverage to avoid unnecessary premiums.
   • Coordinate spousal enrollment timing for strategic advantage
6. Cost-Management Strategies
   • Use HSA funds tax-free for Part B, Part D, and Medigap premiums
   • Stack state assistance programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) with federal benefits for maximum cost savings
7. Prevent “Research Paralysis”
   • Begin planning research early, but finalize your choices in time to meet enrollment deadlines.
   • Focus on the total cost of care, not just the lowest premiums
   • Schedule annual reviews to avoid the “set-and-forget” mistake

Following Episode Preview: Tips & Tricks Thursday—bite-sized, practical Medicare shortcuts and resources you can apply immediately.