Medicare has Parts A, B, C, and D — plus Medigap, Medicare Advantage, enrollment windows, and penalties. We cut through all of it in plain English so you can make the right choice for your situation.
Whether you're turning 65, helping a parent enroll, or trying to decide between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage — start here.
What each part covers, what it costs, and how they work together. The foundation of everything Medicare.
The most important decision you'll make. We break down the pros, cons, and who each is right for.
Plans F, G, N and more explained. How to fill the gaps in Original Medicare and protect yourself from big bills.
Miss a deadline and pay permanent penalties. Know your Initial Enrollment Period, Special Enrollment, and Open Enrollment windows.
Every premium, deductible, and copay for 2026. Part A, Part B, Part D, and what IRMAA means for higher earners.
Many people confuse these two. They're completely different programs — here's how to tell them apart and use both.
How drug coverage works, how to pick a plan, the $2,000 out-of-pocket cap, and how to avoid the late penalty.
Still working at 65? Losing employer coverage? Moving? These life events trigger special windows to enroll without penalty.
Estimate your total Medicare costs for 2026 based on your income, health, and coverage choices.
Medicare is divided into four parts. You need to understand all four before you can make good decisions about your coverage.
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care.
$0 premium for most Learn about Part A →Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, medical equipment, and mental health.
$185.00/mo in 2026 Learn about Part B →Private plans that bundle A + B (and usually D) with extra benefits like dental, vision, and hearing.
Often $0 premium Learn about Part C →Standalone drug coverage added to Original Medicare. Cap of $2,000 out-of-pocket in 2026.
Avg. ~$46/mo in 2026 Learn about Part D →Missing enrollment deadlines means permanent premium penalties. Know your windows before you turn 65.
Medicare Advantage and Medigap plan availability, pricing, and quality ratings vary significantly by state. Find your state guide below.
A step-by-step guide to enrolling in Medicare correctly — what to do, when to do it, and how to avoid the penalties most people don't know about until it's too late.
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