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Learning Center

Learning Center

Know the Basics

Use our simple introductions to help you understand the coverage options available to you.

Why Downsizing In Retirement Can Save You In A Large Way
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
9 Min. read
Why Downsizing In Retirement Can Save You In A Large Way

For some seniors, downsizing isn't just a difficult decision but an actual economic necessity. As more Baby Boomers and Gen Xers near retirement age, downsizing might be the only way they can afford to stay retired.

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Mental Health And Medicare
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
6 Min. read
Mental Health And Medicare

Personal mental health is something every person needs to take seriously — seniors especially. It's important to know what's covered, what's not and how to fill the gaps in your insurance so you can get the mental health services you need.

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Avoiding Medicare Penalties
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
6 Min. read
Avoiding Medicare Penalties

Learn about Medicare late enrollment penalties and how you can ensure you aren't hit with surprise fees that could follow you the rest of your life.

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Is Life Insurance Worth It?
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
11 Min. read
Is Life Insurance Worth It?

Whether you have kids, a spouse, or even if you're young and single, life insurance plays a crucial role in safeguarding your family's future.

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The Ins And Outs Of Giving Your Life Insurance Money To Charity
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
7 Min. read
The Ins And Outs Of Giving Your Life Insurance Money To Charity

Your life insurance policy can impact far more than your loved ones after your death. Donating all or part of your life insurance payout can be complicated, but we'll discuss you the pros and cons, and how to get started with this impactful choice.

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1-800-MEDICARE: The Medicare Helpline
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
9 Min. read
1-800-MEDICARE: The Medicare Helpline

The Medicare helpline, 1-800-Medicare (1-800-633-4227), is the official Medicare phone number allowing Medicare beneficiaries to call for help 24/7.

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Rick Sigler
Call or Text: 586-713-5813
EMail: ricks@grifcon.com
Pre-Existing Conditions And Medicare
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Pre-Existing Conditions And Medicare

Most American have been diagnosed with a pre-existing condition by the time they reach Medicare age. Learn how to get the most out of your coverage.

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Are You New To Medicare And Medicare Advantage?
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
11 Min. read
Are You New To Medicare And Medicare Advantage?

If you're new to Medicare, there's no need to stress! There are many resources available to help you navigate this transition and find the best healthcare coverage for you. Here's an overview of the basics of Medicare to get you started.

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Medicare And Diabetes
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
7 Min. read
Medicare And Diabetes

Learn about what Original Medicare coverage for diabetes looks like and what you can expect from different parts of Medicare.

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End-Stage Renal Disease And Medicare: What You Need To Know
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
8 Min. read
End-Stage Renal Disease And Medicare: What You Need To Know

End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) is a medical diagnosis that makes Medicare coverage an option at any age, once certain criteria are met.

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4 Reasons To Choose A Private Medicare Plan
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
6 Min. read
4 Reasons To Choose A Private Medicare Plan

Sometimes, Original Medicare just doesn't work for you. Here are four reasons you might consider private insurance instead of Original Medicare.

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Palliative Care Vs. Hospice
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Palliative Care Vs. Hospice

It's important to understand your care options. Learn more about palliative and hospice care, including what they have in common and how they differ.

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Rick Sigler
Call or Text: 586-713-5813
EMail: ricks@grifcon.com
5 Questions To Ask About Medicare
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
5 Questions To Ask About Medicare

Where do you get started with Medicare? There are important questions to ask yourself as you research and learn more about your Medicare options at all stages.

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Medicare And Men's Health: What You Need To Know
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
11 Min. read
Medicare And Men's Health: What You Need To Know

Medicare coverage is available to most Americans over age 65, but health concerns and lifestyle conditions can be quite different between genders.

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7 Tips To Prevent The Flu
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
7 Tips To Prevent The Flu

Learn how to fight the flu by adding these easy tips into your life

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Financial Benefits You Could Qualify For As A Senior
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Financial Benefits You Could Qualify For As A Senior

While some benefits will only kick in once you reach a certain age, here are a few great perks that all seniors should keep in mind.

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Early Detection And Preventive Screenings
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
9 Min. read
Early Detection And Preventive Screenings

Gain insights on the importance of preventive care and early disease detection.

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Does Medicare Cover CBD Oil?
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
5 Min. read
Does Medicare Cover CBD Oil?

As more seniors use CBD oil to address issues like anxiety, chronic pain management and inflammation, many want to know whether Medicare will help cover the costs.

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How To Recognize COVID-19 Scams
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
6 Min. read
How To Recognize COVID-19 Scams

The prevalence of COVID-19 has given rise to many scams, especially scams targeted toward seniors. Read here to learn more about identifying and avoiding scams.

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All About Medicare Advantage
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
7 Min. read
All About Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage offers great coverage options, so let's find out if it could be the right choice for you. Here's the need-to-know info on all things Medicare Part C.

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Medicare And Long-Term Care: Understanding Your Options
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
8 Min. read
Medicare And Long-Term Care: Understanding Your Options

Eventually most people will need some form of long-term care. Its important to understand long-term care options and what you can do to prepare.

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How To Choose The Right Supplement Plan For You
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
10 Min. read
How To Choose The Right Supplement Plan For You

Medicare Supplement Insurance, also known as Medigap, is a popular form of coverage that helps reduce your out-of-pocket costs for Medicare.

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Medicare Late Enrollment Penalty
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
5 Min. read
Medicare Late Enrollment Penalty

Being late for Medicare enrollment can have long-lasting and expensive consequences. We'll explore those penalties and how to avoid them.

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6 Things To Know About Medicare Enrollment
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
8 Min. read
6 Things To Know About Medicare Enrollment

Medicare enrollment can seem overwhelming and complicated. Luckily, we're here to provide a simple overview of Medicare enrollment and how to navigate it.

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The Difference Between Medicare Supplement And Medicare Advantage
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
14 Min. read
The Difference Between Medicare Supplement And Medicare Advantage

The two main coverage options that provide more benefits than Original Medicare are Medicare Supplement plans and Medicare advantage plans.

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What Is Indexed Universal Life Insurance?
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
10 Min. read
What Is Indexed Universal Life Insurance?

Life insurance serves to help people manage their financial risks. One type of life insurance is called Indexed Universal Life insurance. This article outlines what makes IUL different and who it might be for.

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IEP, AEP, OEP And SEP
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
IEP, AEP, OEP And SEP

What is the difference between the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, the Open Enrollment Period and the Special Enrollment Period? Learn more here!

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Coverage Gaps And How To Cover Them
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
6 Min. read
Coverage Gaps And How To Cover Them

Original Medicare has gaps in coverage, but there are ways to resolve this. Read here to learn more about coverage gaps and how to fill them!

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10 Tips To Help You Live Off Your Social Security Check Only
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
10 Min. read
10 Tips To Help You Live Off Your Social Security Check Only

Here are 10 money-saving tips to help you live comfortably off your Social Security check.

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Rules For Agents Who Sell Medicare Plans
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
7 Min. read
Rules For Agents Who Sell Medicare Plans

Find out what rules agents have to follow to sell Medicare.

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Medicare Supplement Plan F Vs. Plan G Vs. Plan N
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
10 Min. read
Medicare Supplement Plan F Vs. Plan G Vs. Plan N

The most popular Medigap plans are Plans F, G and N. Understanding the pros and cons of each plan is particularly important, because you may not have a guaranteed right to change plans later on.

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6 Benefits Of Life Insurance
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
8 Min. read
6 Benefits Of Life Insurance

Life insurance is like a safety net for your family or beneficiaries when you're no longer around. Here are 6 benefits of life insurance.

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Life Insurance Frequently Asked Questions And Misconceptions
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
10 Min. read
Life Insurance Frequently Asked Questions And Misconceptions

Life Insurance Frequently Asked Questions. Get to know the facts around common life insurance misconceptions.

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Vision & Dental
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Vision & Dental

Does Original Medicare cover dental and vision? How do I get coverage? Read here for answers to these common questions and more.

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What Is The Medicare Late Enrollment Penalty?
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
5 Min. read
What Is The Medicare Late Enrollment Penalty?

Most seniors know that you're supposed to sign up for Medicare benefits as soon as you're eligible. But what you might not know is that if you don't sign up on time, you might incur a late enrollment penalty.

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Avoiding Medicare Fraud
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
9 Min. read
Avoiding Medicare Fraud

Medicare recipients are often vulnerable to fraud and abuse. Learn how you can protect yourself from Medicare fraud and how to spot fraudulent behavior.

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Understanding How Medicare Premiums Work
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
10 Min. read
Understanding How Medicare Premiums Work

Because Medicare has multiple parts, there are different premiums seniors need to be aware of. Here's a closer look at all the premiums associated with Medicare and how you can calculate your monthly Medicare costs.

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Does Medicare Cover At-Home COVID-19 Tests?
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Does Medicare Cover At-Home COVID-19 Tests?

At-home covid-19 tests are currently covered by Medicare for the time being. Medicare beneficiaries can claim up to 8 free at-home tests per month.

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The Different Types Of Life Insurance
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
9 Min. read
The Different Types Of Life Insurance

Life insurance serves as a valuable financial safety net. Learn about the differences between term, whole life, permanent, and final expense insurance.

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Tips For Seniors To Stay Healthy At Home
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
5 Min. read
Tips For Seniors To Stay Healthy At Home

How do you stay healthy at home? There are several easy ways! Read our list of tips to learn more about keeping healthy at home.

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Medicare Vs. VA Benefits For Veterans
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
12 Min. read
Medicare Vs. VA Benefits For Veterans

As a veteran, you're entitled to medical coverage through the Veterans Affairs (VA) health program, but if you're approaching the age of 65, you're also eligible for Medicare benefits.

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5 Hobbies And Interests For People Over 60
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
5 Min. read
5 Hobbies And Interests For People Over 60

Like many seniors, you've probably spent many years looking forward to retirement. Make the most of it by staying active and enjoying some new hobbies or special interests!

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Medicare And Women's Health: What You Need To Know
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
12 Min. read
Medicare And Women's Health: What You Need To Know

Medicare coverage is available to most Americans age 65 and older, but health concerns and lifestyle conditions can be quite different between genders.

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Understanding Medicare Star Ratings
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
7 Min. read
Understanding Medicare Star Ratings

Discover how to use the Medicare star rating system

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Facts About Cancer And Cancer Prevention That Could Save A Loved One's Life
Rick Sigler
13 Feb 2026
6 Min. read
Facts About Cancer And Cancer Prevention That Could Save A Loved One's Life

Understanding cancer's symptoms and the ways you can catch it early just might save you or a loved one's life.

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Why Original Medicare Alone May Not Be the Right Solution
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
10 Min. read
Why Original Medicare Alone May Not Be the Right Solution

Medicare Part A and Part B both provide some health coverage, but they aren’t always enough. Learn more about original Medicare and more coverage options.

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Telehealth for Seniors on Medicare
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Telehealth for Seniors on Medicare

Telehealth is an easy alternative for seniors to receive medical care. Learn more about Medicare telehealth coverage and if it's right for you.

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Can Medicare Deny Coverage?
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Can Medicare Deny Coverage?

Have you ever worried if you’re going to have coverage for treatment that your doctor recommends? Fortunately, you don’t have to worry with Medicare.

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What Are My Annual Maximum Out-Of-Pocket (MOOP) Expenses On Medicare Advantage Plans?
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
5 Min. read
What Are My Annual Maximum Out-Of-Pocket (MOOP) Expenses On Medicare Advantage Plans?

If the prospect of unlimited out-of-pocket costs concerns you, there is another type of Medicare plan that might serve you better: Medicare Advantage plans (which is also sometimes called Medicare Part C). These plans operate differently than Original Medicare and have a cap on the amount of money you'll pay for healthcare in a calendar year called the maximum out-of-pocket limit (MOOP).

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Get Ready! Medicare Annual Enrollment Starts October 15
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Get Ready! Medicare Annual Enrollment Starts October 15

Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period begins on October 15 and ends on December 7 each year. It's a very important time for you to review and make changes to your Medicare coverage. The changes made during this time will go into effect on January 1 of the next year and run through that year.

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3 Reasons You Might Benefit From a Medigap Plan
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
3 Reasons You Might Benefit From a Medigap Plan

Seniors enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B might not know that there are additional forms of coverage available to fill the gaps left by Original Medicare. These types of plans are called Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap plans.

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Is the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit Mandatory?
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Is the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit Mandatory?

If you're new to Medicare, you may have heard of a free service covered under Medicare Part B called the Annual Wellness Visit. This routine exam is a no-cost option for Medicare participants that may help them stay on top of preventive care and overall wellness.

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How Does PlanEnroll Support You After You Have Completed Your Enrollment?
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
How Does PlanEnroll Support You After You Have Completed Your Enrollment?

For most seniors, their Medicare journey does not end once they enroll in a plan. They might need support navigating updates to coverage, have benefits questions or require plan changes as their needs change. When you have a question or concern about your coverage, you want someone you can turn to for answers.

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Life Insurance: Your Ultimate To-Do List
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
7 Min. read
Life Insurance: Your Ultimate To-Do List

Losing a loved one is an emotional journey, and during the difficult time of your passing, your family shouldn't be burdened with financial and administrative complexities. Planning for the inevitable is an act of love that provides your family with an added sense of security and peace of mind.

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10 Questions Every Veteran Should Ask About Medicare
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
7 Min. read
10 Questions Every Veteran Should Ask About Medicare

If you're a veteran approaching Medicare eligibility, you may have questions about what to do and how this transition will affect your healthcare coverage. Learn how Medicare and VA Benefits interact and about Medicare enrollment as a veteran.

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All About AEP
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
3 Min. read
All About AEP

AEP stands for Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period. It's the time each year when you can make changes to your Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage or Part D Drug Plan coverage to better fit your needs.

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Fully Underwritten Indexed Universal Life Insurance – An Overview
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Fully Underwritten Indexed Universal Life Insurance – An Overview

When it comes to planning for the future, many people seek life insurance policies that not only offer financial protection for loved ones but also help build long-term wealth. One such product gaining traction is Indexed Universal Life Insurance (IUL).

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Medicare's 8-Minute Rule
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Medicare's 8-Minute Rule

As a Medicare recipient, you may need services like physical therapy or other hands-on manual treatments. Did you know that how these kinds of services are billed by your provider can make a difference?

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Medicare Changes for 2025: How Your Coverage May Be Affected
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
7 Min. read
Medicare Changes for 2025: How Your Coverage May Be Affected

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) was signed into law in 2022 and set out goals for addressing health, tax and climate concerns. For plan year 2025, important changes arrive for Prescription Drug coverage and benefits.

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Understanding Simplified Indexed Universal Life Insurance
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
8 Min. read
Understanding Simplified Indexed Universal Life Insurance

Simplified Indexed Universal Life Insurance (Simplified IUL) is a type of whole life insurance that provides both protection for your family and the potential for growing your money over time based on stock market index performance.

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All About the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
3 Min. read
All About the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period

Medicare has a bonus enrollment period for people currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan. It's called the Open Enrollment Period, or OEP. During this period from January 1 to March 31, you can switch your Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare.

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Which Doctors Can You Visit Under Medicare?
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Which Doctors Can You Visit Under Medicare?

Not every provider participates in Medicare Part A, Part B and Medicare Advantage. Learning which doctors you can visit in your area under Medicare can help make healthcare planning much easier.

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Holistic Medicine and Medicare
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
6 Min. read
Holistic Medicine and Medicare

Holistic and alternative medicines are having a moment. From the mainstream popularity of chiropractic care to the legalization of medical marijuana in many states, here's what Medicare covers regarding holistic medicine.

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New to Medicare? Here's When You Should Enroll and When You're Eligible to Switch Plans
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
8 Min. read
New to Medicare? Here's When You Should Enroll and When You're Eligible to Switch Plans

As you approach 65, you'll likely hear a lot about Medicare. Without taking the time to understand Medicare enrollment periods, you might miss your opportunity to enroll, leaving you with a gap in coverage and potentially raising your premiums with late enrollment penalties.

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Medicare Supplement Options
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Medicare Supplement Options

Navigating your Medicare coverage options can be confusing. Learn about different Medicare Supplement options to help you find the right coverage type for your needs.

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Coverage Review Kit
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
2 Min. read
Coverage Review Kit

The Medicare Coverage Review Kit makes it easy to get a complete look at your Medicare coverage needs with this easy step-by-step guide.

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When Is Medicare Primary Insurance?
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
5 Min. read
When Is Medicare Primary Insurance?

Medicare works with other forms of insurance in different ways. It's important to understand when Medicare is your primary insurance and when it is not.

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5 Questions People Get Wrong About Medicare and Medicare Advantage
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
9 Min. read
5 Questions People Get Wrong About Medicare and Medicare Advantage

Medicare and Medicare Advantage can be complicated, and some people may get some information wrong. Learn the right answers to common misconceptions.

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Four Common Medicare Complaints And How To Fix Them
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
3 Min. read
Four Common Medicare Complaints And How To Fix Them

Medicare plans aren't always easy to choose and manage. Learn about common complaints and helpful solutions to address them.

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Is Life Insurance Taxable?
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
6 Min. read
Is Life Insurance Taxable?

Learn about the taxation of life insurance benefits, how taxes work after death, and why your family won't owe taxes on your life insurance payout.

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Why Is it So Important to See Your Doctor for Your Annual Wellness Visit?
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
Why Is it So Important to See Your Doctor for Your Annual Wellness Visit?

While not mandatory, the Annual Wellness Visit is a way to stay on top of your health concerns — past, present and future — and since it's free, there's no reason to skip it.

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Mental Health Services Under Medicare
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
6 Min. read
Mental Health Services Under Medicare

Did you know that mental health in the 65+ demographic is a growing public health issue? Fortunately, Medicare covers a variety of mental health options to help address this serious health crisis.

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Your Medicare Rights: Empower Yourself
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
10 Min. read
Your Medicare Rights: Empower Yourself

No matter how you get Medicare, you have certain rights and protections! These are designed to protect you when you receive healthcare, protect your privacy, and make sure you get the healthcare services you are eligible for.

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Filing a Medicare Complaint
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
6 Min. read
Filing a Medicare Complaint

All Medicare enrollees are guaranteed certain rights: the right to privacy, the right to be treated fairly, and the right to receive any health care services you need as allowed under the law. If one of these rights is violated, it is your right to file a complaint or grievance.

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The Importance of Preventive Screenings for Prostate and Colorectal Cancer
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
4 Min. read
The Importance of Preventive Screenings for Prostate and Colorectal Cancer

As you age, your risk for developing certain health problems increases. Senior men, in particular, are at risk for ailments like prostate and colorectal cancer. Fortunately, routine health screenings can ensure you have a clean bill of health or catch these problems before they get much worse.

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Facts About Cancer and Cancer Prevention That Could Save a Loved One's Life
Rick Sigler
14 Feb 2026
6 Min. read
Facts About Cancer and Cancer Prevention That Could Save a Loved One's Life

Cancer has touched almost everyone's life in some way. As you age, it's more important than ever to keep cancer top of mind. Understanding cancer's symptoms and the ways you can catch it early just might save you or a loved one's life.

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