US Medicare Brokers: How Independent Brokers Help You Choose the Right Plan
US Medicare brokers work for you, not for any single insurance company. An independent broker compares Supplement, Advantage, and Part D plans across dozens of carriers to match your health needs and budget.
I'm Anthony Orner, a licensed broker in NJ, and I do this every day. Here's what you should know before picking someone to help with your Medicare decisions.
Call for Free Advice — 855-559-1700What a Medicare broker does that an agent cannot
A captive agent sells plans from one carrier. That's it. If their company's Plan G costs $40 more per month than a competitor's identical Plan G, they can't tell you.
An independent broker is contracted with multiple carriers and can show you all of them side by side. Same benefits, different prices. You pick.
How independent brokers are paid (and why it costs you nothing)
Carriers pay brokers a commission when you enroll. This commission is already baked into every plan's premium. You pay the same rate whether you call the carrier directly, use their website, or work with a broker.
The difference: a broker shops for you. No extra cost. No hidden fees.
Why carrier count matters
In most states, a dozen or more carriers offer Medicare Supplement plans. Premiums for the exact same Plan G can vary by $80 or more per month between carriers in the same zip code.
A broker contracted with 30+ carriers catches those gaps. A single-carrier agent can't.
Questions to ask before hiring any Medicare broker
- Are you licensed in my state? (Verify through your state's Department of Insurance.)
- How many carriers do you represent?
- Will you help me during annual enrollment and if I need to switch later?
- Do you sell both Medigap and Medicare Advantage plans?
If a broker only sells Advantage plans, they may not show you the Supplement option that actually fits better. Ask.
When to contact a broker
- Turning 65: Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period lasts 6 months starting the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Part B. This is your best window for guaranteed issue rates.
- Leaving employer coverage: You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period and federal guaranteed issue rights.
- Annual Enrollment: October 15 through December 7 is the window to change Advantage or Part D plans.
- Rates went up: A broker can re-shop your Supplement plan to see if another carrier offers a lower premium for the same coverage.
Work with a licensed broker who compares dozens of carriers
I compare Supplement and Advantage plans from over 30 carriers. Every recommendation is based on your doctors, medications, and what you can comfortably spend each month.
No pressure. No cost. Just honest answers and a plan that fits.
Ready for an honest Medicare comparison?
Call 855-559-1700 or get a free quote online.
Licensed in multiple states. No obligation.