Turning 65 in Upstate SC? Your Medicare Enrollment Guide — Medicare Advantage Plans vs. Medicare Supplement Plans

Turning 65 soon? We’ll help you figure out Medicare without the stress — right here in Upstate SC

If you’re about to turn 65 and live Upstate SC in Pickens, Oconee, Anderson, or Greenville Counties, you’ve probably already started receiving Medicare mailers — and phone calls on a regular daily basis now. But the truth is, Medicare can be confusing if you don’t understand the timing, coverage options, or plan types available in your area.

At the Shanley Insurance Agency, we’ve helped residents of Upstate SC transition into Medicare with confidence. Here’s what you need to know — and what most mailers won’t tell you.

Medicare 101: Breaking Down the Parts of Medicare

Part A – Hospital Insurance: Covers inpatient care in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, hospice care, and some home health care. Most people don't pay a monthly premium if they or their spouse worked 10+ years.

Part B – Medical Insurance: Helps cover services from doctors and other providers, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment. Part B has a monthly premium that is currently $257 — and late enrollment penalties if you miss your window.

Part C – Medicare Advantage Plans: Offered by private insurance companies. These plans are regularly referred to as the "All-In-One Plans", that Combines Parts A & B into one plan, and often includes drug coverage (Part D), dental, vision, hearing, and even gym memberships.

Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage: Covers the cost of medications. Must be purchased separately if you’re not in a Medicare Advantage plan. Late enrollment can mean permanent penalties.

When Should You Enroll?

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is the 7-month window around your 65th birthday:

• 3 months before

• The month of your birthday

• 3 months after

Missing this window could lead to lifetime penalties unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement Plans

Medicare Supplement Plan or Medicare Advantage Plan?

Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C):

(All-In-One Plan)

• Lower monthly premiums

• Medicare Parts A - B & D combined in one plan

• Extra benefits like dental, vision & hearing

• Copays when you use services

• Must use in-network providers (HMO/PPO)

Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap / Medicare Supplement):

(Plans G or N are recommended)

• Higher monthly premiums

• Low or no copays

• Much lower out of pocket costs vs. Medicare Advantage plan

• Use any doctor that accepts Medicare

• Separate Part D plan required (Stand Alone Prescription Drug Card)

We help you compare plans in your ZIP code — and we’ll never push one company over another. We work for you, not the carriers. We represent all the Major Carriers in the Medicare Marketplace.

Why Local Matters

Plans can vary widely by ZIP code and even by county. What works for someone in Greenville may not work for someone in Pickens. We know the network coverage, doctor availability, and pharmacy options specific to our region. Dealing with a local agent can help make sure you choose the right coverage.

From Howard at the Shanley Insurance Agency:

“Medicare isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s personal. That’s why I will sit down with you to explain your choices, answer your questions, and help you avoid costly mistakes. We’ve been doing this since 1999 — and we’re just getting started.”

Need help with Medicare? Don’t wait. 

Call Shanley Insurance today at (864) 868-5194 or visit www.shanleyagency.com/medicare to schedule your free review. Our agency can help you make the right plan choices and, remember...our services are "Free" when helping you enroll in a Medicare plan.

Health Insurance Review

60

Book Now

The Shanley Insurance Agency proudly serves Pickens, Oconee, Anderson, and Greenville Counties with trusted Medicare guidance.