According to health insurance.org, almost 887,000 residents are enrolled in Medicare here in Louisiana. The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) for Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans ended on December 7. However, hurricanes and tropical storms affected many Louisiana residents, and a Special Election Period (SEP) was granted — giving them extra time to enroll in Part C or D plans for 2021. We’ll talk more about this and explain how to apply for Medicare in the Pelican State.
Who Is Eligible for Medicare in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, most people qualify for Medicare at 65. Some people with disabilities or certain diseases can get Medicare before the age of 65. If you have questions about Medicare eligibility, call us at 1-877-874-0711.
Your Options for Applying in Louisiana
Social Security enrolls people in Part A and Part B (called Original Medicare). You can visit ssa.gov and follow the Medicare links for more information.
There are three ways to apply:
- Online
- Over the phone (1-800-772-1213), or
- In-person at your local Social Security office
If you’d like supplemental insurance to add to your Original Medicare, you can enroll in a Medigap plan through a broker like us.
Medicare Enrollment in Louisiana: Quick Facts
- As of October 2020, roughly 19% of the state’s population was enrolled in Medicare.
- In Louisiana, 20% of Medicare recipients are under 65. Only five states have a higher percentage of disabled Medicare recipients.
- Pre-enrollee spending for Medicare insurance in LA is the highest in the country.
Related Post: Medicare Enrollment Periods for 2021
Extended Enrollment Opportunity in Louisiana
Due to hurricanes Delta, Sally, and Laura and tropical storms Marco and Zeta, many Louisiana residents were unable to enroll in Medicare by the December 7 deadline.
Suppose you were affected by the 2020 hurricanes. In that case, you’re eligible for an extended enrollment opportunity — known as a Special Enrollment Period — which will have varying deadlines at the end of January or February. The SEP related to Hurricane Delta continues until February 28, and it applies statewide.
Enrolling in January means your coverage will get started in February. Enrolling in February means your coverage will get started in March.
Related Post: What Is the Special Enrollment Period?
Does Louisiana Help Me Pay My Medicare Premiums?
Financial help Is available for Louisiana Medicare Enrollees.
A Medicare Savings Program (MSP) can help eligible people pay for Part B premiums and Original Medicare cost-sharing in LA.
- Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB): This program pays for Original Medicare cost-sharing and Part B monthly premiums ($148.50). The income limit is $1,063 per month if single or $1,437 per month if married.
- Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB): Pays for Part B premiums. The income limit is from QMB amounts up to $1,276 per month if single or $1,724 per month if married.
- Qualified Individuals (QI): The income limit is from SLMB levels up to $1,436 per month if single or $1,940 per month if married. QI also pays for Part B premiums.
- Qualified Disabled Working Individuals (QDWI): Not many recipients qualify for this program. It pays the Part A premiums that certain disabled people owe — who have gone back to work. The income limit is 200% of the federal poverty level or $2,126 per month if you live alone and $2,873 per month if you live with one other person.
Contact The Fussell Group Insurance Advisors in Louisiana
Do you want to change your Medicare coverage this year? Do you need help with enrollment? Contact The Fussell Group for free Medicare advice in Louisiana.