Medicare FAQ
The questions our Moab and Grand County neighbors ask most. Don’t see yours? Just ask — it’s free.
Does it cost anything to work with Moab Medicare?
No. Brian Penner is an independent, licensed Medicare advisor paid by the insurance carriers — never by you. Guidance is free and there’s no pressure to enroll.
Is Moab Medicare part of the government or Medicare?
No. Moab Medicare is a licensed independent insurance agency and is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. For all of your options, contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
When can I first enroll in Medicare?
Your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window around your 65th birthday: the three months before your birthday month, your birthday month, and the three months after. Enrolling in the three months before usually means coverage starts with no gap. You can estimate your exact window with our cost calculator.
What’s the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medigap?
Medicare Advantage (Part C) bundles your coverage into one private plan with a network and copays, often at low or $0 premium. Medigap (a Medicare Supplement) pairs with Original Medicare to cover most out-of-pocket costs and lets you see any Medicare provider nationwide, for a monthly premium plus a separate Part D drug plan.
Which Medicare plans can I compare in Grand County, UT?
Grand County residents can choose among Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicare Supplement (Medigap), and stand-alone Part D drug plans. The exact plans, premiums, and carriers change each year. We compare what’s available in your ZIP against your doctors, prescriptions, and budget, and you can browse every plan on Medicare.gov/plan-compare.
Do I have to switch plans every year?
No, but it’s smart to review. Plans change their premiums, drug formularies, and networks each year. During the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15 – Dec 7) we give your current coverage a free second look and only switch you if something genuinely fits better.
What happens if I enroll late?
Without other creditable coverage, enrolling late can trigger lifelong penalties: Part B adds 10% for each full 12 months you delayed, and Part D adds 1% of the national base premium per month without drug coverage. Our calculator estimates both.
What is IRMAA?
IRMAA is an income-related surcharge added to your Part B and Part D premiums if your income is above the threshold (based on your tax return from two years prior). Most people don’t pay it. You can estimate yours with our cost calculator.
Will my prescriptions be covered?
It depends on each plan’s formulary. Drug coverage varies a lot plan to plan, so we match your exact prescription list against the options to find the best fit — this is one of the most valuable parts of a review.
Can you help if I live outside Moab?
Yes. We serve all of Grand County and nearby communities like Castle Valley, Spanish Valley, La Sal, Thompson Springs, and Green River. We can meet at our Moab office or help by phone. Call (435) 260-3200.
Ready to talk Medicare?
Book a free, no-obligation review with a local Moab advisor — by phone or in person. No pressure, and no fee to you.