Medicare can seem complicated and confusing. It can feel like you’re trying to sort through a pile of puzzle pieces that don’t quite fit.
If you’re about to turn 65—or helping a parent who is—you know how confusing it can be.
You need a qualified, experienced Medicare advisor to help you make sense of it all. But how do you find the right one?
Here are 7 things to look for (including some red flags to steer clear of).
#1. Look for an Independent Advisor
Some Medicare advisors work for just one insurance company. They can only sell policies for that company.
Others are independent advisors who work with many different Medicare insurance providers.
Why chose an independent advisor?
Medicare supplement, Medicare Advantage, and Part D drug plans aren’t “one size fits all”. Some plans may be a better fit for you than others.
An independent Medicare advisor can compare plans across different companies and help you find the one that best fits your needs. That means better options, more flexibility, and advice that’s tailored to you.
#2. Check for Proper Licensing and Certification
Any Medicare advisor should be licensed in your state.
If they help with Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plans, they also need special certifications. These have to be renewed every year.
Ask:
- Are you licensed to help in my state?
- Are your Medicare certifications current?
A trustworthy advisor will be happy to answer those questions without hesitation.
#3. Do They Ask You Questions? (Lots of Questions!)
A good Medicare advisor takes time to understand your needs. These include your:
- Doctors and hospitals
- Prescription drugs
- Travel plans
- Budget
- Health conditions
If an advisor jumps right into recommending a plan without asking about any of these, you should probably keep looking.
#4. They Make Medicare Make Sense
Medicare can seem like it has its own language. (Part A, Part B, Part C… it’s enough to make your head spin.)
Your advisor should be able to explain how it all works in plain language. No pressure, no sales pitch—just clear answers to your questions.
Don’t choose an advisor who leaves you more confused than when you started.
#5. Look at Their Reputation
Do your due diligence. Before you commit, do some digging:
- Look them up online
- Read reviews
- Ask your friends or family members on Medicare if they recommend an advisor
- Word of mouth still matters—especially when it comes to healthcare decisions. You want someone who treats people right.
#6. Watch Out for These Red Flags
Medicare advisors have to follow very strict rules when they market their services. Here are some of the big ones:
- They MUST Show a TPMO Disclaimer on their website or social mediaTPMO stands for “third party marketing organization”. The disclaimer will usually look like this:“We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.”This disclaimer is required if they help with Medicare Advantage or drug plans.
- They can’t Use “Medicare” in their business name
This isn’t allowed unless they’re an official government agency…and usually they aren’t. - They can’t “cold call” youMedicare advisors can’t contact you without your permission.Be cautious about online offers for “free” Medicare guides and seminars. If you sign up, they’re allowed to contact you. Make sure they’re legit before you click.
#7. They’re Upfront About How They Get Paid
Medicare advisors are usually paid by the insurance companies—not by you. A legitimate advisor will explain that clearly.
Most important, they’ll base their advice on your specific needs, not on their commissions.
If your advisor won’t discuss their compensation, that’s a major red flag.
Your Medicare, Your Choice
Choosing your Medicare advisor is an important decision. You want someone who listens to you, explains things clearly, looks out for your best interests, and will stick with you for the long haul.
At Goodell Health Services, that’s exactly what I do. No pressure, just real help from a Medicare advisor who puts your needs first.
I’m here to help, whether you’re new to Medicare or just want to make sure you have the right coverage to fit your needs.
Call me at (832) 773-7981, email me at scott.goodell@ghstx.com, or use my contact form to book your free Medicare consultation.
Scott Goodell
Goodell Health Solutions