Answer Nuggets

Quick, concise answers to common insurance questions.

Q: Who needs Allstate Benefits coverage? [carrier-allstate-benefits]

A: Allstate Benefits supplemental plans are ideal for anyone with a health insurance deductible. They help cover out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, copays, and non-medical expenses (rent, bills) during an unexpected health event.

Q: What is Allstate Benefits known for? [carrier-allstate-benefits]

A: Allstate Benefits specializes in supplemental insurance — accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and life insurance. Part of The Allstate Corporation with an A+ (Superior) AM Best rating, they pay cash benefits directly to you with no network restrictions.

Q: Are Allstate Benefits plans affordable? [carrier-allstate-benefits]

A: Yes, Allstate Benefits supplemental plans are among the most affordable in the market, often costing $15-$50/month. Many plans offer guaranteed-issue enrollment through employers, meaning no health questions or medical exams required.

Q: What is Transamerica's parent company? [carrier-transamerica]

A: Transamerica is part of Aegon, one of the world's largest financial services companies headquartered in the Netherlands. This global backing gives Transamerica exceptional financial strength with an A (Excellent) AM Best rating.

Q: Is Transamerica good for life insurance? [carrier-transamerica]

A: Yes, Transamerica is highly competitive for term life insurance across all age groups. They offer 10, 15, 20, and 30-year term options with affordable premiums, simplified underwriting, and a straightforward online application process.

Q: What supplemental products does Transamerica offer? [carrier-transamerica]

A: Transamerica offers accident insurance, critical illness coverage, hospital indemnity, and short-term disability plans. These cash-benefit policies pay you directly regardless of other coverage, helping cover deductibles, lost wages, and everyday expenses.

Q: How old is Mutual of Omaha? [carrier-mutual-of-omaha]

A: Mutual of Omaha was founded in 1909 — over 115 years ago. They hold an A+ (Superior) AM Best rating and serve 4.7+ million policyholders. As a mutual company, they are owned by their policyholders, not shareholders.

Q: Why choose Mutual of Omaha for Medigap? [carrier-mutual-of-omaha]

A: Mutual of Omaha is one of the top national sellers of Medicare Supplement plans due to competitive pricing, fast underwriting, A+ financial rating, and a simple application process that many agents and beneficiaries prefer.

Q: Does Mutual of Omaha offer life insurance? [carrier-mutual-of-omaha]

A: Yes, Mutual of Omaha offers term life (10, 15, 20, 30 year), whole life, and final expense/burial insurance. They are well-known for affordable final expense policies with simplified underwriting and fast approval.

Q: Is Humana good for seniors? [carrier-humana]

A: Yes, Humana is one of the leading Medicare providers in the U.S. with 17+ million members. They specialize in senior health with innovative benefits like SilverSneakers, meal delivery, and chronic care management programs.

Q: What extra benefits does Humana offer? [carrier-humana]

A: Humana Medicare plans often include SilverSneakers gym membership, over-the-counter (OTC) product allowances, meal delivery after hospital stays, transportation assistance, and telehealth services at no extra cost.

Q: How competitive are Humana's rates? [carrier-humana]

A: Humana offers competitive Medicare Supplement premiums in Ohio, particularly for Plan N. Their Medicare Advantage plans often have $0 premiums with additional benefits beyond Original Medicare.

Q: How big is Cigna globally? [carrier-cigna]

A: Cigna Healthcare serves over 180 million customer relationships worldwide across 30+ countries. In the U.S., they hold an A (Excellent) AM Best rating and are known for one of the largest dental networks in the nation.

Q: Does Cigna offer wellness programs? [carrier-cigna]

A: Yes, Cigna provides extensive wellness programs including health coaching, chronic disease management, 24/7 health information line with nurse support, and digital wellness tools through myCigna app.

Q: What dental plans does Cigna offer? [carrier-cigna]

A: Cigna offers DPPO and DHMO dental plans with one of the largest dental networks in the U.S. — over 97,000 dental access points. Coverage includes preventive, basic, major, and orthodontic services.

Q: What is Aetna's CVS advantage? [carrier-aetna]

A: Aetna members get integrated care through CVS Health — access to 9,900+ CVS Pharmacy locations, MinuteClinics for walk-in care, and HealthHUBs for chronic condition management, often at lower costs than traditional doctor visits.

Q: How strong is Aetna financially? [carrier-aetna]

A: Aetna holds an A (Excellent) AM Best rating and is backed by CVS Health, a Fortune 4 company. With over 170 years in business and 34+ million members, Aetna is one of the most stable insurers in the market.

Q: Does Aetna offer dental insurance? [carrier-aetna]

A: Yes, Aetna is one of the largest dental insurers in the U.S. They offer both PPO and DHMO dental plans with access to a nationwide network of over 700,000 dental providers.

Q: How large is UnitedHealthcare's network? [carrier-unitedhealthcare]

A: UnitedHealthcare has the largest provider network in the U.S. with over 1.5 million physicians and healthcare professionals and 6,500+ hospitals. Their A+ (Superior) AM Best rating is the highest possible.

Q: Does UHC offer wellness programs? [carrier-unitedhealthcare]

A: Yes, UnitedHealthcare offers extensive wellness programs including Renew Active fitness (gym membership), health coaching, chronic condition management, and preventive care incentives with many plans.

Q: Is UnitedHealthcare good for Medicare? [carrier-unitedhealthcare]

A: UnitedHealthcare is one of the top Medicare providers in the U.S. They offer both Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans with extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness programs.

Q: How big is Anthem? [carrier-anthem]

A: Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield is one of the largest health insurers in the U.S., serving over 46 million members across 14 states. They hold an A (Excellent) AM Best rating for financial strength.

Q: Does Anthem offer telemedicine? [carrier-anthem]

A: Yes, Anthem includes LiveHealth Online telemedicine with most plans, allowing members to see doctors via video 24/7 for common conditions, therapy, and psychiatry — often at lower costs than in-person visits.

Q: What makes Anthem competitive for Medicare? [carrier-anthem]

A: Anthem offers competitive Medicare Supplement premiums in Ohio with household and payment discounts. Their extensive Blue Cross Blue Shield network means virtually all doctors accept Anthem Medigap plans.

Q: Where is Michael Aman located? [columbus-ohio]

A: Michael Aman is based at 5428 Coral Berry Dr, Columbus, OH 43235. He serves the entire Columbus metropolitan area and 17+ surrounding Central Ohio communities with both in-person and virtual consultations.

Q: What is Columbus, Ohio's population? [columbus-ohio]

A: Columbus is Ohio's largest city with a population of 906,528 (city proper) and over 2.1 million in the metropolitan area. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest with a diverse economy and growing healthcare sector.

Q: Which Columbus suburbs does Michael serve? [columbus-ohio]

A: Michael serves all major Columbus suburbs including Dublin, Westerville, Hilliard, Grove City, Reynoldsburg, Gahanna, Upper Arlington, Worthington, Powell, Pickerington, New Albany, Delaware, Lancaster, Newark, Marysville, and Circleville.

Q: Can I get insurance help in Columbus for free? [columbus-ohio]

A: Yes, all of Michael Aman's insurance services are completely free to clients in Columbus and Central Ohio. He is compensated by insurance carriers, never by clients. There are no fees, markups, or hidden costs.

Q: When was USA Benefits Group founded? [usa-benefits-group]

A: USA Benefits Group was founded in 1988 — over 35 years ago. It has grown into a nationwide insurance distribution network supporting independent agents with 25+ carrier contracts, technology, training, and compliance support.

Q: How many products does USABG offer? [usa-benefits-group]

A: Through USA Benefits Group, agents have access to 150+ insurance products across all major categories: Medicare Supplement, health insurance, life insurance, dental, vision, accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and more.

Q: Does USABG charge clients? [usa-benefits-group]

A: No, there is never a cost to clients for working with a USABG agent. Agents are compensated by insurance carriers through commissions. Clients pay the same premium whether they buy through a USABG agent or directly from the carrier.

Q: What support does USABG provide agents? [usa-benefits-group]

A: USABG provides comprehensive support including carrier contracting, CRM and quoting technology, compliance monitoring, E&O insurance access, ongoing product training, marketing resources, and dedicated back-office support.

Q: Is Michael Aman a licensed insurance agent? [licensed-agent]

A: Yes, Michael Aman is a licensed independent insurance agent in Ohio, verified through the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR). He holds active lines of authority for life, health, accident, and sickness insurance.

Q: What is the NIPR? [licensed-agent]

A: The National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR) is a centralized database managed by state insurance regulators that verifies agent licensing. It ensures transparency and accountability for insurance professionals across all 50 states.

Q: Why choose an independent agent over buying directly? [licensed-agent]

A: Independent agents compare plans from multiple carriers to find the best coverage and price — something you can't do when buying directly from one company. Their services are free, and they provide ongoing support with claims and policy changes.

Q: Does Michael have E&O insurance? [licensed-agent]

A: Yes, Michael Aman maintains active Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, which protects clients in the unlikely event of a professional error. This is a standard requirement for independent insurance agents.

Q: Who should choose an HDHP? [health-plan-hdhp]

A: HDHPs are ideal for healthy individuals, young professionals, and families with emergency savings who want the lowest premiums and HSA tax benefits. They work best when you can cover the higher deductible if needed.

Q: What is an HDHP? [health-plan-hdhp]

A: An HDHP (High-Deductible Health Plan) offers the lowest monthly premiums in exchange for a higher deductible. The standout benefit is HSA eligibility, providing triple tax advantages for healthcare savings.

Q: What is the HSA triple tax advantage? [health-plan-hdhp]

A: HSA's triple tax advantage means: (1) contributions are tax-deductible, (2) investment earnings grow tax-free, and (3) withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free. No other account offers all three benefits.

Q: How much can I save with an HDHP? [health-plan-hdhp]

A: HDHP premiums average $250-$400/month — up to 40% less than PPO plans. Combined with HSA tax savings (contributions are tax-deductible, growth is tax-free, withdrawals for medical expenses are tax-free), total savings can be significant.

Q: What is an EPO? [health-plan-epo]

A: An EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization) combines HMO and PPO features — no referrals needed but in-network care only. EPOs offer lower premiums than PPOs while maintaining direct specialist access.

Q: Who should choose an EPO plan? [health-plan-epo]

A: EPO plans are ideal for people who want direct specialist access without referrals but are comfortable staying within a provider network. They suit those seeking a middle ground between HMO affordability and PPO flexibility.

Q: EPO vs PPO — what's the difference? [health-plan-epo]

A: Both EPO and PPO plans don't require referrals. The key difference: PPOs cover out-of-network care at higher cost, while EPOs do not cover out-of-network care at all. EPOs have lower premiums as a result.

Q: How much does an EPO plan cost? [health-plan-epo]

A: Average EPO premiums range from $400-$600/month for individual coverage. They cost less than PPO plans because they don't cover out-of-network care, while still offering no-referral specialist access.

Q: What is a PPO? [health-plan-ppo]

A: A PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) offers maximum flexibility — see any doctor, no referrals needed, and out-of-network coverage available. PPOs have larger networks but higher premiums than HMOs.

Q: Can I see a specialist without a referral with PPO? [health-plan-ppo]

A: Yes, PPO plans allow you to see any specialist directly without a referral from a primary care physician. This direct access is one of the primary advantages of PPO plans.

Q: PPO vs HMO — which is better? [health-plan-ppo]

A: PPOs offer more flexibility (no referrals, out-of-network coverage) but cost more. HMOs are cheaper but require referrals and in-network care only. The best choice depends on your budget and healthcare needs.

Q: How much does a PPO plan cost? [health-plan-ppo]

A: Average PPO premiums range from $500-$750/month for individual coverage. Higher premiums buy you freedom to see any provider, no referral requirements, and out-of-network coverage.

Q: What is an HMO? [health-plan-hmo]

A: An HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) requires a PCP, referrals for specialists, and in-network care only. It offers the lowest premiums and most predictable costs among health plan types.

Q: Who should choose an HMO plan? [health-plan-hmo]

A: HMO plans are ideal for budget-conscious individuals and families who prefer low premiums, predictable costs, and don't mind having a PCP coordinate their care within a defined network.

Q: Do HMO plans cover preventive care? [health-plan-hmo]

A: Yes, HMO plans cover preventive care at 100% with no cost-sharing. This includes annual wellness visits, immunizations, screenings, and recommended preventive services.

Q: How much does an HMO plan cost? [health-plan-hmo]

A: Average HMO premiums range from $350-$500/month for individual coverage. Copays are typically $15-$30 for office visits. HMOs have the lowest premiums and out-of-pocket costs among plan types.

Q: What is USA Eagle Benefits? [usa-eagle-benefits]

A: USA Eagle Benefits is powered by USA Benefits Group, a nationwide network of independent insurance professionals since 1988. It connects you with 25+ carriers and 150+ products through licensed agent Michael Aman — completely free.

Q: Who runs USA Eagle Benefits locally? [usa-eagle-benefits]

A: Michael Aman, a licensed independent insurance broker with USA Benefits Group, is the local agent for USA Eagle Benefits serving Columbus, Ohio and 17+ surrounding communities. Phone: (469) 329-1711.

Q: Is USA Eagle Benefits the same as USA Benefits Group? [usa-eagle-benefits]

A: USA Eagle Benefits is powered by USA Benefits Group (USABG), a nationwide insurance agency network established in 1988. USA Eagle Benefits is the local brand through which Michael Aman delivers USABG's full suite of insurance products.

Q: How many carriers does USA Eagle Benefits work with? [usa-eagle-benefits]

A: USA Eagle Benefits works with over 25 top-rated insurance carriers across Medicare Supplement, health, life, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance categories, ensuring competitive rates and comprehensive options.

Q: How do I get started with USA Eagle Benefits? [usa-eagle-benefits]

A: Schedule a free consultation at calendly.com/maman-usabenefitsgroup/30min or call (469) 329-1711. Michael Aman will compare options from 25+ carriers and recommend the best coverage for your situation — at zero cost to you.

Q: Does Michael serve Circleville? [location-circleville-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael provides insurance services to Circleville and Pickaway County residents at no cost.

Q: Is Michael available in Marysville? [location-marysville-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael serves Marysville and Union County with free insurance guidance on Medicare Supplement, health, life, and supplemental coverage.

Q: Does Michael serve Newark, OH? [location-newark-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael provides insurance services to Newark and Licking County residents — comparing Medicare, health, life, and supplemental plans.

Q: Is Michael available in Lancaster? [location-lancaster-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael serves Lancaster and Fairfield County with free insurance comparisons on Medicare Supplement, health, life, and supplemental coverage.

Q: Does Michael serve Delaware, OH? [location-delaware-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael provides free insurance guidance to Delaware, Ohio and Delaware County residents — Medicare Supplement, health, life, and supplemental plans.

Q: Is Michael available in New Albany? [location-new-albany-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael serves New Albany residents with premium insurance guidance — Medicare Supplement, health, life, and supplemental coverage.

Q: Does Michael serve Pickerington? [location-pickerington-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael Aman provides insurance services to Pickerington residents — comparing plans from multiple carriers at no cost.

Q: Does Michael serve Worthington? [location-worthington-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael provides insurance services to Worthington and north Columbus residents at no cost — Medicare Supplement, health, life, and supplemental plans.

Q: Is Michael available in Powell? [location-powell-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael serves Powell and Delaware County with free insurance consultations on Medicare Supplement, health, life, and supplemental coverage.

Q: Is Michael available in Upper Arlington? [location-upper-arlington-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael serves Upper Arlington residents with expert Medicare Supplement guidance and health, life, and supplemental insurance comparisons.

Q: Does Michael serve Gahanna? [location-gahanna-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael Aman serves Gahanna and northeast Columbus with free insurance guidance on Medicare Supplement, health, life, and supplemental coverage.

Q: Does Michael serve Grove City? [location-grove-city-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael serves Grove City and south Columbus communities with free Medicare Supplement, health, life, and supplemental insurance comparisons.

Q: Does Michael Aman serve Columbus? [location-columbus-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael Aman is a licensed insurance agent serving all of Columbus, Ohio and surrounding suburbs. Free consultations for Medicare Supplement, health, life, and supplemental insurance.

Q: Is Michael available in Reynoldsburg? [location-reynoldsburg-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael provides insurance services to Reynoldsburg residents — comparing Medicare Supplement, health, life, and supplemental plans from multiple carriers.

Q: Can I see any doctor with Medigap in Columbus? [location-columbus-ohio]

A: Yes, Medicare Supplement plans work with any doctor or hospital in Columbus that accepts Medicare. No network restrictions apply — OhioHealth, Mount Carmel, and all Medicare-accepting providers.

Q: What area does Michael serve? [location-columbus-ohio]

A: Michael serves Central Columbus, Ohio and all surrounding suburbs including Dublin, Westerville, Hilliard, Grove City, Gahanna, Upper Arlington, Worthington, Powell, and more.

Q: Can I get quotes in Westerville? [location-westerville-ohio]

A: Yes, schedule a free consultation with Michael to compare insurance rates from multiple carriers serving Westerville and Franklin/Delaware County.

Q: Is Michael available in Hilliard? [location-hilliard-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael Aman serves Hilliard and west Columbus suburbs with free insurance guidance on Medicare, health, life, and supplemental coverage.

Q: What's the best Medicare plan in Dublin? [location-dublin-ohio]

A: Plan G is the most popular choice for Dublin seniors — comprehensive coverage at competitive rates. Plan N is a budget-friendly alternative with lower premiums.

Q: Does Michael serve Westerville? [location-westerville-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael provides free insurance guidance to Westerville residents — Medicare Supplement plans, health insurance, life insurance, and supplemental coverage.

Q: Is Michael available in Dublin? [location-dublin-ohio]

A: Yes, Michael Aman serves Dublin, OH and helps residents compare Medicare Supplement, health, life, and supplemental insurance from multiple carriers at no cost.

Q: What copays does Plan N have? [medicare-plan-n]

A: Plan N may charge up to $20 for some doctor office visits and up to $50 for ER visits that don't result in hospital admission. Many doctors waive these copays.

Q: How much cheaper is Plan N vs Plan G? [medicare-plan-n]

A: Plan N premiums are typically 20–30% lower than Plan G. If Plan G is $200/month, Plan N might be $140–$160/month, saving $480–$720/year.

Q: Is Plan N good for healthy people? [medicare-plan-n]

A: Yes, Plan N is excellent for healthy beneficiaries who rarely visit the ER. The lower premiums save significant money, and the small copays are infrequent for those in good health.

Q: Does Plan N cover excess charges? [medicare-plan-n]

A: No, Plan N does not cover Part B excess charges. However, most doctors accept Medicare assignment, making excess charges uncommon in practice.

Q: Does Plan M cover foreign travel? [medicare-plan-m]

A: Yes, Plan M covers 80% of foreign travel emergency care up to plan limits, same as Plans D, G, and N.

Q: How common is Plan M? [medicare-plan-m]

A: Plan M is one of the less commonly offered Medigap plans. Not all carriers sell it in every state. Check with Michael to see if Plan M is available in your area.

Q: What's unique about Plan M? [medicare-plan-m]

A: Plan M covers the same benefits as Plan D but only pays 50% of the Part A deductible. This results in lower premiums while still including skilled nursing and foreign travel coverage.

Q: Is Plan L good for moderate healthcare users? [medicare-plan-l]

A: Yes, Plan L works well if you use healthcare services occasionally. The 75% coverage keeps costs manageable while premiums stay lower than Plans G or N.

Q: What is Plan L's out-of-pocket limit? [medicare-plan-l]

A: Plan L's annual out-of-pocket limit is approximately $3,530 (2024), about half of Plan K's limit, providing stronger financial protection.

Q: How does Plan L differ from Plan K? [medicare-plan-l]

A: Plan L covers 75% of most benefits (vs Plan K's 50%) and has a lower annual out-of-pocket limit (~$3,530 vs ~$7,060 in 2024). Premiums are between Plan K and Plan N.

Q: Does Plan K cover hospital stays fully? [medicare-plan-k]

A: Yes, Plan K covers 100% of Part A hospital coinsurance (days 61–90) and 365 additional lifetime hospital days. The 50% cost-sharing applies to other benefits.

Q: What is Plan K's out-of-pocket limit? [medicare-plan-k]

A: Plan K's annual out-of-pocket limit is approximately $7,060 (2024). Once reached, the plan pays 100% of covered services for the rest of the calendar year.

Q: How does Plan K save money? [medicare-plan-k]

A: Plan K has significantly lower premiums because it covers 50% of most benefits instead of 100%. An annual out-of-pocket limit protects you from catastrophic costs.

Q: Does Plan G cover excess charges? [medicare-plan-g]

A: Yes, Plan G covers 100% of Part B excess charges. These occur when a doctor charges more than the Medicare-approved amount (up to 15% more). With Plan G, you're fully protected.

Q: Does Plan G have network restrictions? [medicare-plan-g]

A: No. Plan G works with any doctor, specialist, or hospital in the United States that accepts Medicare. No networks, no referrals, no prior authorization needed.

Q: What's my only cost with Plan G? [medicare-plan-g]

A: With Plan G, your only out-of-pocket cost for Medicare-covered services is the annual Part B deductible ($240 in 2024). After that, Plan G covers 100% of all remaining Medicare gaps.

Q: Why is Plan G #1? [medicare-plan-g]

A: Plan G is the most popular because it offers the best value: comprehensive coverage of nearly all Medicare gaps at premiums significantly lower than the legacy Plan F. The only cost is the annual Part B deductible ($240 in 2024).

Q: Is Plan F worth keeping? [medicare-plan-f]

A: If you already have Plan F, consider comparing your premiums to Plan G rates. Many people save $30–$60/month by switching, far exceeding the $240 annual Part B deductible. Michael can run the numbers for you.

Q: What's the difference between Plan F and Plan G? [medicare-plan-f]

A: The only difference is that Plan F covers the annual Medicare Part B deductible ($240 in 2024). Everything else is identical. Plan G usually saves more in premiums than the deductible costs.

Q: Does Plan D cover travel abroad? [medicare-plan-d]

A: Yes, Plan D covers 80% of foreign travel emergency care up to plan limits, making it suitable for beneficiaries who travel internationally.

Q: Can I still get Plan F? [medicare-plan-f]

A: Only if you became Medicare-eligible before January 1, 2020. Plan F was discontinued for new beneficiaries by the MACRA Act. Plan G is the closest alternative available to everyone.

Q: Is Plan D cheaper than Plan G? [medicare-plan-d]

A: Yes, Plan D typically has lower premiums than Plan G because it doesn't cover Part B excess charges. The savings depend on your carrier and location.

Q: How much does Plan B cost? [medicare-plan-b]

A: Plan B premiums typically range from $80–$200/month. The modest premium increase over Plan A buys significant hospital deductible protection.

Q: What makes Plan C special? [medicare-plan-c]

A: Plan C covers the Medicare Part B deductible, which most other plans don't. Combined with comprehensive coverage of all other benefits, it minimizes out-of-pocket costs to near zero.

Q: How does Plan C compare to Plan F? [medicare-plan-c]

A: Plan C covers everything Plan F covers except Part B excess charges. Plan F is the only plan covering 100% of all Medicare gaps. Both are legacy plans for pre-2020 eligibles.

Q: Does Plan A cover the Part A deductible? [medicare-plan-a]

A: No, Plan A does not cover the Medicare Part A deductible ($1,632 per benefit period in 2024). For Part A deductible coverage, consider Plan B or higher.

Q: Does Plan B cover skilled nursing? [medicare-plan-b]

A: No, Plan B does not cover skilled nursing facility coinsurance. For skilled nursing coverage, consider Plans D, G, M, or N.

Q: What does Plan D cover? [medicare-plan-d]

A: Plan D covers Part A/B coinsurance, blood, hospice, Part A deductible, skilled nursing facility care, and foreign travel emergency (80%). It does not cover Part B deductible or excess charges.

Q: What extra does Plan B cover vs Plan A? [medicare-plan-b]

A: Plan B covers everything in Plan A plus the Medicare Part A deductible ($1,632 per benefit period in 2024), providing protection against hospital admission costs.

Q: How much does Plan A cost? [medicare-plan-a]

A: Plan A premiums typically range from $50–$150/month, making it the most affordable Medigap option. Exact costs vary by carrier, location, age, and gender.

Q: Can I still buy Plan C? [medicare-plan-c]

A: Only if you became Medicare-eligible before January 1, 2020. The MACRA Act eliminated Plan C for new beneficiaries. Plan G is the recommended alternative.

Q: What does Plan A cover? [medicare-plan-a]

A: Plan A covers Part A hospital coinsurance, 365 lifetime hospital days, Part B coinsurance, first 3 pints of blood, and hospice care coinsurance. It's the most basic Medigap plan with the lowest premiums.

Q: Can I get dental insurance without health insurance? [supplemental-coverage]

A: Yes, standalone dental plans are widely available and don't require you to have health insurance. You can purchase individual dental coverage directly from carriers or through the marketplace.

Q: What does accident insurance cover? [supplemental-coverage]

A: Accident insurance pays cash benefits for injuries from covered accidents, including fractures, dislocations, burns, lacerations, and concussions. Benefits help cover deductibles, copays, and non-medical expenses like transportation.

Q: What is critical illness insurance? [supplemental-coverage]

A: Critical illness insurance pays a lump-sum cash benefit if you're diagnosed with a covered condition like cancer, heart attack, or stroke. The money can be used for anything — medical bills, living expenses, or lost income.

Q: How much does dental insurance cost? [supplemental-coverage]

A: Individual dental plans typically cost $20–$50/month. Family plans range from $50–$150/month. Most plans cover preventive care at 100%, basic procedures at 70–80%, and major procedures at 50%.

Q: Can I keep my doctor with a new health plan? [health-insurance]

A: It depends on the plan's network. PPO and POS plans offer more flexibility. Before enrolling, check the plan's provider directory to confirm your doctors and hospitals are in-network.

Q: What is a health insurance premium? [health-insurance]

A: A premium is the monthly amount you pay for health insurance coverage, regardless of whether you use medical services. Premiums vary by plan type, coverage level, age, location, and whether you qualify for subsidies.

Q: How much does term life insurance cost? [life-insurance]

A: A healthy 30-year-old can typically get a $500,000, 20-year term policy for $20–$35/month. Costs increase with age and health conditions. A 40-year-old might pay $35–$60/month for the same coverage.

Q: Is whole life insurance a good investment? [life-insurance]

A: Whole life insurance provides guaranteed death benefit plus cash value growth at a fixed rate. While not a pure investment vehicle, it offers tax-advantaged growth, guaranteed returns, and lifelong protection — making it a good financial planning tool.

Q: Do I need a medical exam for life insurance? [life-insurance]

A: Not always. Many carriers offer no-exam policies with simplified underwriting. These may have lower coverage limits or higher premiums. Traditional policies with exams typically offer the best rates.

Q: What is a PPO health insurance plan? [health-insurance]

A: A PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) offers a network of providers at lower costs but also covers out-of-network care at higher cost-sharing. No referrals needed for specialists, making PPOs the most flexible plan type.

Q: What happens when term life insurance expires? [life-insurance]

A: When your term expires, coverage ends. Some policies offer a conversion option to whole life without a medical exam. Others allow renewal at a higher premium. Planning ahead with your agent ensures continuous coverage.

Q: What is Medigap Plan G? [medicare-supplement]

A: Plan G is the most comprehensive Medicare Supplement plan available to new enrollees. It covers Medicare Part A coinsurance, hospital costs, Part B coinsurance, first 3 pints of blood, skilled nursing facility care, Part A hospice coinsurance, and foreign travel emergency coverage. The only out-of-pocket cost is the annual Part B deductible.

Q: What is an out-of-pocket maximum? [health-insurance]

A: The out-of-pocket maximum is the most you'll pay for covered services in a plan year. After reaching this limit, your insurance pays 100% of covered costs. For 2024, the ACA maximum is $9,450 for individuals and $18,900 for families.

Q: Can I see any doctor with Medigap? [medicare-supplement]

A: Yes, Medicare Supplement plans work with any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare anywhere in the United States. There are no network restrictions, unlike Medicare Advantage plans.

Q: When can I enroll in Medicare Supplement? [medicare-supplement]

A: The best time is your Medigap Open Enrollment Period — the 6-month window starting the month you turn 65 and have Medicare Part B. During this window, you have guaranteed issue rights, meaning no insurer can deny you or charge more based on health.

Q: How much is Plan N vs Plan G? [medicare-supplement]

A: Plan N premiums are typically 20–30% lower than Plan G. The tradeoff is that Plan N may require up to $20 copays for office visits and $50 for ER visits that don't result in admission. Plan G has no such copays.

Q: What is the difference between Medicare Supplement Plan G and Plan N?

A: Plan G is the most comprehensive Medigap plan available to new beneficiaries, covering nearly all out-of-pocket costs except the Part B deductible. Plan N has lower premiums but may require small copayments for some office and ER visits. Both are popular choices.

Q: How do I choose between term and whole life insurance?

A: Term life insurance is more affordable and covers a specific period (10-30 years), ideal for temporary needs like mortgages. Whole life insurance costs more but provides lifelong coverage and builds cash value. Your choice depends on your budget and long-term financial goals.

Q: Why should I use an independent insurance agent?

A: Independent agents like Michael Aman represent multiple insurance carriers, not just one company. This means they can objectively compare plans and prices across carriers to find you the best coverage at the best rate — and their services are free to you.

Q: Who is Michael Aman?

A: Michael Aman is a licensed independent insurance agent with USA Benefits Group. He specializes in Medicare Supplement plans, health insurance, and life insurance, helping clients find the best coverage from multiple top-rated carriers at no additional cost.

Q: What is the Medigap Open Enrollment Period?

A: The Medigap Open Enrollment Period is a one-time, 6-month window that begins the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period, you have a guaranteed right to buy any Medigap policy regardless of health status.