When should I enroll in Medicare if I’m turning 65?

Most people should enroll during their 7-month Initial Enrollment Period, which begins 3 months before their 65th birthday month, includes their birthday month, and ends 3 months after. Missing this enrollment window may result in permanent late enrollment penalties.

Can I delay Medicare if I’m still working after age 65?

Yes. If you have employer-sponsored creditable coverage through an employer with 20 or more employees, you may be able to delay Medicare Part B without penalties. It is important to verify your coverage status with your employer's HR department.

What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medigap?

Medicare Advantage plans combine Medicare benefits into one plan and often include additional benefits. Medigap plans help cover out-of-pocket costs not paid by Original Medicare. The right option depends on your healthcare needs, budget, doctors, and prescription medications.

When can I change my Medicare plan?

You can typically change Medicare plans during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 through December 7), the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 through March 31), or during a qualifying Special Enrollment Period triggered by certain life events.

Is there a penalty for enrolling in Medicare late?

Yes. Delaying enrollment in Medicare Part B or Part D without qualifying coverage can result in lifetime premium penalties. Enrolling on time helps you avoid unnecessary costs and coverage gaps.

Does it cost anything to work with a Medicare advisor?

No. Independent Medicare advisors do not charge clients for their services. Advisors are compensated by insurance carriers when a client enrolls in a plan, and there is no additional cost to the beneficiary.

How do I know if my employer coverage is creditable?

Creditable coverage means your employer health plan is expected to pay at least as much as standard Medicare coverage. Your employer or HR department can provide documentation confirming whether your coverage is creditable.

Can Houston Independent Insurance help me compare Medicare plans?

Yes. Houston Independent Insurance provides independent Medicare plan comparisons, helping Texans evaluate Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement (Medigap), and Prescription Drug Plans based on their healthcare needs, doctors, prescriptions, and budget.

When should I enroll in Medicare if I’m turning 65?

Most people should enroll during their Initial Enrollment Period, which begins three months before the month they turn 65, includes their birthday month, and ends three months after. Missing this enrollment window may result in permanent penalties if you do not have qualifying coverage.

Can I delay Medicare if I’m still working after age 65?

If you have employer-sponsored coverage from a qualifying employer, you may be able to delay Medicare Part B without penalties. Your eligibility depends on factors such as employer size and whether your coverage is considered creditable.

What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medigap?

Medicare Advantage plans are an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits through private insurance companies, while Medigap plans help cover certain out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare. The right choice depends on your healthcare needs, budget, doctors, and prescription medications.

Can I change my Medicare plan after enrolling?

Yes. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible to make changes during the Annual Enrollment Period, Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, or a Special Enrollment Period triggered by qualifying life events.

Are there penalties for enrolling in Medicare late?

Yes. Delaying enrollment in Medicare Part B or Part D without qualifying coverage can result in lifetime late enrollment penalties that increase your premiums.

Does it cost anything to work with a Medicare advisor?

No. Independent Medicare advisors are typically compensated by insurance carriers when a client enrolls in a plan, meaning there is generally no additional cost to receive guidance and enrollment assistance.

Can you help me compare Medicare plans from different insurance companies?

Yes. An independent Medicare advisor can compare plans from multiple insurance carriers to help you evaluate benefits, provider networks, prescription coverage, and overall costs.

What information should I have before choosing a Medicare plan?

You should have a list of your doctors, medications, preferred pharmacies, and expected healthcare needs. This information helps ensure the plan you choose aligns with your medical and financial goals.

Can you help if I’m already enrolled in Medicare?

Yes. Medicare advisors can review your current coverage, check provider and prescription compatibility, evaluate costs, and help determine whether a plan change may be beneficial.

Do you provide Medicare assistance throughout Texas?

Yes. Medicare guidance and enrollment assistance are available for individuals throughout Texas, whether they are turning 65, working beyond 65, retiring, or already enrolled in Medicare.

Houston Independent Insurance

Independent Insurance Advisor and Broker Serving Houston and All of Texas

Mike Bauer has spent the last 7 years helping Texans navigate Medicare with clarity and confidence.

Licensed in Texas (and many other states), Mike works as an Independent Insurance Advisor, meaning he compares multiple insurance carriers rather than representing just one.

His approach is simple:

Education first. Decisions second.

Clients appreciate his calm, no-pressure approach and ongoing support beyond enrolment season.

Mike’s background in pastoral ministry has shaped his service-oriented and integrity-driven approach to helping others make important life decisions.

When he’s not helping clients understand Medicare, he enjoys the outdoors and spending time with family.

Michael Jones

Associate Agent

Michael Jones is our licensed insurance agent. He spent 3 years independently helping seniors and families find the right Medicare coverage with confidence and peace of mind. Known for his honest guidance and personal approach, we are glad to have another Mike join the Houstonii team.

A proud husband of 16 years and father of two, Michael enjoys hunting, fishing, gardening, and spending time with his family. Guided by strong biblical values, he believes in serving every client with integrity, compassion, and care.

Lauren White

Admin Assistant

Lauren is a follower of Christ, wife of 1 husband, and mother to 4 amazing kiddos. She enjoys building relationships, playing board games of all sorts, loves a good book, enjoys the outdoors, and has started the hobby of birdwatching! She lived in Kenya for 8 years and loves to travel and see new places. She now lives in a rural town just NE of Houston with her family and her dad.