Ben Mauldin | Nov 05 2025 13:42
🎉 Turning 65? Here’s Your Medicare Roadmap — and Why Mauldin Insurance Group Is Your Best Ally
Turning 65 is a milestone worth celebrating — but it also comes with a flood of mailers, confusing Medicare jargon, and pressure to “choose fast.” At Mauldin Insurance Group, we believe this moment should feel empowering, not overwhelming. Whether you’re retiring, still working, or navigating coverage with a spouse, we’re here to simplify the process and tailor your options to your life.
🧭 Medicare Basics: What You Need to Know
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older. It’s divided into parts:
| Part | What It Covers | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| A | Hospital insurance | Usually free if you’ve worked 10+ years |
| B | Medical insurance | Covers doctor visits, outpatient care |
| C | Medicare Advantage | Combines A & B, often with extras like dental/vision |
| D | Prescription drug coverage | Offered through private plans |
You can also add Medicare Supplement (Medigap) to help cover out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and coinsurance.
✅ Best Practices for a Smooth Medicare Transition
Here’s what we recommend to every Midlands neighbor turning 65:
- Start early: Begin exploring options 3–6 months before your birthday.
- Know your enrollment window: You have a 7-month Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): 3 months before, the month of, and 3 months after your 65th birthday.
- Evaluate your current coverage: If you’re still working or covered by a spouse’s plan, timing matters.
- Compare plans locally: Not all Advantage or Part D plans are created equal — some work better in Lexington, Irmo, or Forest Acres than others.
- Avoid penalties: Missing deadlines can lead to lifelong late fees.
📞 Why Call Mauldin Insurance Group?
We’re not just insurance agents — we’re educators, advocates, and Midlands neighbors. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Local expertise: We know which plans actually work in Columbia, West Columbia, and surrounding areas.
- Plain-language guidance: We translate Medicare jargon into clear, actionable steps.
- One-on-one support: You’ll never be rushed or handed off to a call center.
- Compliance-first: We ensure every recommendation meets federal standards and protects your rights.
- Creative outreach: From flyers to playlists, we make Medicare feel human.
💬 Real Stories from Midlands Clients
“I was drowning in Medicare mailers. Ben sat down with me, explained everything in plain English, and helped me choose a plan that covered my doctors and prescriptions. I felt heard — not sold to.”
— Linda M., Irmo
“Mauldin Insurance Group didn’t just help me enroll — they followed up months later to make sure my coverage was working. That kind of care is rare.”
— James T., Forest Acres
“I called three agencies before finding Mauldin. Ben’s warmth and clarity made all the difference. I now recommend him to everyone turning 65.”
— Carolyn S., Lexington
❓ Medicare FAQ
Q: Do I need to enroll in Medicare if I’m still working?
A: Maybe. If your employer has fewer than 20 employees, you may need to enroll in Part B to avoid gaps. We’ll help you assess.
Q: What’s the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medigap?
A: Advantage plans bundle coverage and often include extras, but have networks. Medigap works with Original Medicare and offers more flexibility. We’ll help you compare.
Q: Can I keep my doctor?
A: That depends on the plan. We’ll check your providers against local networks.
Q: What if I have VA benefits or TRICARE?
A: You may still benefit from enrolling in Medicare. We’ll walk you through the coordination rules.
Q: What if I miss my enrollment window?
A: You could face penalties or coverage delays. Don’t wait — call us early.
🎯 Ready to Simplify Medicare?
Whether you’re turning 65 next month or next year, Mauldin Insurance Group is here to guide you with clarity, care, and Midlands heart. Call us today to schedule your free consultation — and let’s make this milestone feel like a fresh start.
📞 (843) 509-2462
🌐 mauldininsurancegroup.com
📍 Serving Columbia, Lexington, Irmo, Forest Acres, West Columbia, and the Midlands
Turning 65 is a milestone worth celebrating — but it also comes with a flood of mailers, confusing Medicare jargon, and pressure to “choose fast.” At Mauldin Insurance Group, we believe this moment...