What questions should I ask a Medicare agent?
Ask whether they are licensed in your state, which insurance companies they represent and which they do not, how they are paid, whether your doctors and prescriptions are covered, and what a bad year would cost you. A good agent welcomes every one of these.
About the agent
- Are you licensed in my state? What is your National Producer Number?
- Which insurance companies do you represent? Which do you not?
- How are you paid, and does it differ by plan type?
- Will you still be here next year if I have a problem?
About your options
- Are all of my doctors in this plan’s network? Can we check together?
- Are my prescriptions covered, and at which pharmacy is the cost lowest?
- What would I pay in a bad year, not just in a typical one?
- What happens if I move or travel for part of the year?
Things you should never be asked
No agent should ask for your bank account number, Social Security number, or Medicare number before you have decided to enroll in a specific plan. No agent should pressure you to decide the same day. If either happens, you can leave.
Common questions
Is it rude to ask how an agent is paid?
No. Agents are used to it, and the answer is simple: the insurance company pays a commission if you enroll, and your premium is the same either way.
Should I get a second opinion?
You can. Your state’s SHIP program offers free counseling, and nothing stops you from visiting more than one office.
Talk it through in person
Every office in this directory has licensed agents who will sit down with you, at no cost, and go through your situation. Find a Medicare office near you →