Medicare Supplement Consumer Shopping Tips

Understand the insurance coverage you are buying

• Medicare Supplement Insurance (also known as MedSupp and Medigap) is different than Medicare (Part A/B), Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D.
• A Medicare Supplement Insurance policy helps pay some of the health care costs that original Medicare doesn’t cover, such as copayments, coinsurance and deductibles.
• For additional information about all types of Medicare coverage policies, including enrollment periods, please visit Medicare.gov, speak with a local agent or contact a state-certified, Medicare Counselor at ServiceLink (866-634-9412).

Shop carefully before you buy

• Compare benefits, services and costs.
• Insurance companies may charge different premiums for exactly the same Medigap coverage. As you shop, be certain you are comparing the same Medigap plan.

Read your policy to understand coverage and coverage limitations

• Know how your policy coordinates with any other coverage(s) you may have.

Make sure that all the information on your application is correct

• An incorrect application may cause the insurance company to cancel your policy or leave you with unpaid claims.
• Do not be misled by agents who tell you your health history does not matter.
• Describe your health status completely and accurately.
• It is best, if you complete the application yourself. If your agent completes the application on your behalf, do not sign the application until you have verified that all information is complete and accurate.

Do not pay with cash

• Pay by check, money order or bank draft, payable to the company – not the agent.
• Do not give your agent a blank check or access to your bank account.
• If you have an automatic teller machine (ATM) card, do not give your card or your access code to anyone.

If you do not receive your policy within 45 – 60 days, contact the company or agent.

If after contacting the company and/or agent you still do not receive your policy, or if you suspect fraud, contact the New Hampshire Insurance Department’s Consumer Helpline, toll-free at 1-800-852-3416.

Seek Help

If you have questions or are unable to resolve a problem with your insurance company or agent, contact The New Hampshire Insurance Department’s Consumer Division at 800-852-3416, via email at consumerservices@ins.nh.gov or in writing at 21 South Fruit Street; Suite 14; Concord, NH 03301.