Frequently asked questions about insurance in 14 States

Most people enroll during their Initial Enrollment Period, which is the 7-month window around your 65th birthday (3 months before, your birthday month, and 3 months after). Missing this window can mean late penalties. Learn more about Medicare enrollment periods ›

Medigap (or Medicare Supplement) works with Original Medicare and lets you see any doctor nationwide who accepts Medicare. Medicare Advantage combines hospital, doctor, and prescription coverage into one plan but usually has a provider network. See our Medigap vs. Advantage comparison ›

Yes. Even if you take no medications, you should enroll in a low-cost Part D plan during your Initial Enrollment Period. Skipping Part D now can lead to lifelong late penalties later. See our Part D guide ›

Yes. You can review and change Medicare Advantage and Part D plans each year during the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15–Dec 7). Medigap switching rules vary — we’ll walk you through them. Book a free Medicare review ›

You may have to wait until the next General Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31) to sign up, and late penalties could apply. It’s always best to talk to a local advisor before your 65th birthday.

No. Medigap covers gaps in Original Medicare but does not include prescription coverage. You’ll need a separate Part D plan.

Term life covers you for a set period (10, 20, 30 years) and is usually more affordable. Whole life lasts your entire lifetime and can build cash value. See term vs. whole life explained ›

Most experts suggest 7–10x your annual income, but it depends on debts, family needs, and financial goals. We calculate this during a discovery call.

Yes. There are options for most health profiles, including simplified issue and guaranteed issue coverage. Your price may vary, but we shop multiple carriers to find the right fit.

Living benefits let you access part of your policy while you’re alive if you face a chronic, critical, or terminal illness. This can help pay bills or medical costs without cashing out savings. Learn about living benefits ›

Your coverage will lapse after a grace period. Some whole life policies have non-forfeiture options that may keep a reduced benefit in force — we’ll help you review before canceling.

No, Original Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental care. You can add a standalone dental plan or choose a Medicare Advantage plan that includes dental. See our dental + Medicare options ›

It depends on your expected usage. If you just need cleanings, a low-premium plan may work. If you need crowns, bridges, or dentures, a higher-benefit plan with a higher annual maximum is best.

Yes, but timing matters. Some Medicare Advantage plans can only be changed during Annual Enrollment. Standalone dental plans can usually be purchased anytime.

Your deductible is what you pay out-of-pocket before coverage kicks in. Your annual maximum is the most the plan will pay in a year. Once you hit the max, you pay 100% of additional costs.

Plan for premiums (Medigap, Part D), out-of-pocket costs, and unexpected expenses. We help you estimate annual costs and build them into your retirement plan.

It varies by plan choice. Most people spend a combination of Part B premiums, supplement premiums, and drug plan premiums. We can give you a custom estimate.

No — we focus on education, not investment advice. We show you how insurance fits into your overall financial picture and refer to trusted advisors when appropriate.

Yes. Proper coverage prevents unexpected medical bills from depleting retirement funds, especially during long-term care or major health events.

No. Our consultations and plan comparisons are free. We are compensated by the carriers if you enroll through us.

Yes. We work with multiple carriers and are not tied to one company, which lets us recommend what’s best for you.

Yes. We offer phone, Zoom, and in-person meetings for your convenience.

We serve Peoria, Metamora, Washington, Morton, East Peoria, and all of Central Illinois.