Medicare Insurance Advisor

[Auggie]

2. Google search followed by phone interview

I chose someone local so I could do a face-to-face interview. He sold other insurance so I knew he was serious about his vocation. He was also about 20 younger than me so I know he'll be around for a while.

I began Medicare in August -- just went through the drill.

Do your homework about options before your meeting. Take a good look at you own health and family's medical history. Consider what your retirement income will be too. This can help you decide whether you should concentrate on Medigap or Medicare Advantage.

By law Medigap plans are the same no matter who offers them. A Plan G is a Plan G at Anthem, Blue Shield, Humana, etc. I went with the insurance company with the history of least price increases in my zip code. Remember, you can change insurers during open enrollment. One thing that's difficult to do, especially (and potentially) years from now is upgrade from Medicare Advantage to Medigap.