Question 1

What is the difference between a captive agent and an independent agent?

Accepted Answer

A captive agent works with one insurance company and can only offer products from that company. An independent agent works with multiple insurance companies, which allows them to compare options and help you find coverage that best fits your needs.

Question 2

Is Medicare free?

Accepted Answer

Medicare is not free. Most people do not pay a premium for Part A (hospital coverage) if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working for at least 10 years/40 quarters. Part B (medical coverage) has a monthly premium (which is controlled by CMS), and additional coverage such as Medicare Advantage, prescription drug plans, or supplements may also have costs.

Question 3

Does it cost me money to work with an agent?

Accepted Answer

No. There is no cost to work with a licensed insurance agent. We are compensated by the insurance companies, not by you.

Question 4

How do I know I am ready for Medicare?

Accepted Answer

You are generally eligible for Medicare at age 65, or earlier if you qualify due to disability. If you are approaching 65, receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits, or have a qualifying disability, it may be time to review your Medicare options.

Question 5

What is the difference between passive and active Medicare enrollment?

Accepted Answer

If you are already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits when you turn 65, you may be automatically (passively) enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. If not, you will need to actively enroll through Social Security during your Initial Enrollment Period. This can be done over the phone by calling the Social Security Department at 800-772-1213, at a local SSD office, or online at ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up

Question 6

How do I prepare for my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Bring your Medicare card (if you have it), a list of your doctors and prescriptions, and any questions you may have about coverage. This helps us provide accurate information for your situation. For an in-office appointment, we need you to complete the following survey at lease 3 days before your appointment.

Question 7

I don’t have my Original Medicare card, can you still help me?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can still answer your questions and help you explore your options. However, you will need your Medicare number to enroll in a plan, which you can request from Social Security if needed. You can call the SSD to request a replacement card at 800-772-1213 or log in to your SSA.gov Medicare account.

Question 8

What is the window of time that I can enroll?

Accepted Answer

Your Initial Enrollment Period is a seven-month window that begins three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after. There are also Annual and Special Enrollment Periods depending on your situation.

Question 9

What are my choices for meeting with you?

Accepted Answer

We offer flexible options including in-person meetings, phone calls, and virtual appointments to fit your schedule and comfort level.

Question 10

What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

Accepted Answer

Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance for people 65 and older and certain younger people with disabilities. Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for people with limited income and resources. Some people may qualify for both.

Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a captive agent and an independent agent?

Is Medicare free?

Does it cost me money to work with an agent?

How do I know I am ready for Medicare?

What is the difference between passive and active Medicare enrollment?

How do I prepare for my appointment?

I don’t have my Original Medicare card, can you still help me?

What is the window of time that I can enroll?

What are my choices for meeting with you?

What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

Menu

About Us

FAQ

Contact

Medicare

Long-Term Care, Life, & Annuities

Health Under-65 or Short-Term Health

Travel

Established 1974

3000 Ivanrest Ave SW
Suite E
Grandville, MI 49418

Privacy Policy

Terms of Use

Call: 616-530-0300

Text: 855-538-0852

wendt.ins.agency@gmail.com

Office Hours
Mon-Thurs: 9am - 4pm
Friday: 9am - 12pm

Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a captive agent and an independent agent?

Is Medicare free?

Does it cost me money to work with an agent?

How do I know I am ready for Medicare?

What is the difference between passive and active Medicare enrollment?

How do I prepare for my appointment?

I don’t have my Original Medicare card, can you still help me?

What is the window of time that I can enroll?

What are my choices for meeting with you?

What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

Menu

Established 1974

3000 Ivanrest Ave SW Suite E Grandville, MI 49418

Call: 616-530-0300

Text: 855-538-0852

Office Hours Mon-Thurs: 9am - 4pm Friday: 9am - 12pm

3000 Ivanrest Ave SW
Suite E
Grandville, MI 49418

Office Hours
Mon-Thurs: 9am - 4pm
Friday: 9am - 12pm