Turning 65 in Columbia, SC?
Here’s When to Start Your Medicare Planning

Your Medicare Timeline Starts 3 Months Before You Turn 65

If you live in Columbia, SC and you’re approaching your 65th birthday, the most important thing to know is this:

You should start your Medicare planning 3 months before you turn 65.

This early window gives you time to understand your options, avoid penalties, and make confident decisions without feeling rushed. At Mauldin Insurance Group, we help Columbia seniors navigate this process step‑by‑step so nothing gets missed.

We’re a local, independent Medicare agency — not a call center, not a national directory, and not a commission‑driven sales operation. You get real guidance from people who understand Columbia, Forest Acres, Irmo, and the entire Midlands healthcare landscape.

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⭐ Why Columbia Residents Start Medicare Planning With Us

• We explain exactly what to do at each step of your 7‑month enrollment window
• Local expertise — we know Columbia’s doctors, hospitals, and plan networks
• Independent advice — we compare multiple carriers
• No‑pressure consultations — we only recommend what benefits you
• Annual reviews to ensure your plan continues to fit your needs
• Hands‑on support — you never deal with the carrier alone

Turning 65 is a milestone. We make the Medicare part simple.

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📅 Your Medicare Timeline: What to Do and When

3 Months Before You Turn 65 — Start Here

This is the ideal time to begin:

• Learn the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medigap
• Review your prescriptions and preferred doctors
• Understand whether you should enroll in Part B (especially if still working)
• Compare plan options available in Columbia
• Avoid penalties or delays

Most people don’t realize how much smoother Medicare is when you start early — this is where we help.

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The Month You Turn 65

This is when your Medicare coverage can begin, depending on when you enroll. We help you:

• Confirm your Part A and Part B start dates
• Finalize your supplemental coverage
• Ensure your drug plan covers your medications
• Avoid gaps in coverage

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3 Months After You Turn 65

You still have time to choose a Medicare Advantage, Medigap, or Part D plan — but waiting this long can create stress or delays. We help you avoid last‑minute issues.

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🏥 Medicare Options We Help You Understand

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

• HMO & PPO plans
• Zero‑premium options
• Dental, vision, hearing, and OTC benefits
• Local Midlands provider networks

Medicare Supplement (Medigap)

• Plan G, Plan N, and other popular options
• Rate comparisons across multiple carriers
• Guidance on long‑term cost stability

Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)

• Annual drug cost analysis
• Avoiding penalties
• Ensuring your medications are covered affordably

Special Situations

• Still working at 65
• Retiring and losing employer coverage
• Disability Medicare
• Moving into or out of Columbia

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📍 Serving Columbia, SC and the Midlands

We proudly serve:

• Columbia
• Forest Acres
• Irmo
• Cayce
• West Columbia
• Northeast Columbia
• Arcadia Lakes
• Hopkins
• Lexington (east side)
• And surrounding Midlands communities

If you’re in 29201, 29203, 29204, 29205, 29206, 29209, or 29223, you’re in our service area.

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🔍 What Makes Us Different From Other “Medicare Agents Near Me”

Many agents in the Columbia area focus on rewriting policies every year just to generate commissions.

We don’t operate that way.

At Mauldin Insurance Group:

• We protect what’s working
• We only recommend changes when they truly help you
• We prioritize long‑term relationships over short‑term sales

That’s why so many Midlands retirees trust us year after year.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions for Columbia Residents Turning 65

When should I start looking at Medicare?

Ideally 3 months before you turn 65. This gives you time to compare plans, avoid penalties, and ensure your coverage starts on time.

Do I automatically get Medicare at 65?

Some people do — but many need to enroll manually. We help you determine your situation.

Do I need a local Medicare agent in Columbia?

Yes. Local agents understand Columbia’s doctors, hospitals, and plan networks — something national call centers can’t offer.

Should I enroll in Medicare if I’m still working?

It depends on your employer coverage. We help you decide whether to enroll, delay Part B, or transition fully into Medicare.

How much does it cost to use a Medicare agent?

There is no cost to you. Your premiums are the same whether you use an agent or enroll on your own.

Can you help me compare Medicare Advantage and Medigap?

Absolutely. We explain the differences in cost, coverage, networks, and long‑term considerations.

Do you offer in‑person appointments in Columbia?

Yes. We serve clients throughout Columbia, Forest Acres, Irmo, and the Midlands. Phone and virtual appointments are also available.

What ZIP codes do you serve?

We primarily serve 29201–29223, but we can help anyone in South Carolina.

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📞 Turning 65 Soon? Start Your Medicare Planning Today

If you’re within 3 months of your 65th birthday — or even if you’re earlier — now is the perfect time to get clear answers and personalized guidance.

👉 Contact us: www.mauldininsurancegroup.com/contact