5 Medicare Mistakes To Avoid
5 Medicare Mistakes to Avoid
By Happy Days Senior Insurance Services
Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming, especially with all the options, deadlines, and confusing terms. Whether you’re enrolling for the first time or reviewing your coverage, it’s easy to make costly mistakes. At Happy Days Senior Insurance Services in Round Rock, Texas, we help you avoid the most common pitfalls and make confident, informed decisions. Here are five key Medicare mistakes to watch out for.
1. Waiting Too Long to Enroll
One of the biggest mistakes people make is missing their initial enrollment period. If you wait too long, you could face lifetime penalties and gaps in coverage. The Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before your 65th birthday and lasts for seven months total. Don’t wait until the last minute — plan ahead to avoid unnecessary costs.
2. Assuming Original Medicare Covers Everything
Many new enrollees are surprised to learn that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) doesn’t cover everything — like dental, vision, hearing, or most prescription drugs. Without supplemental coverage, these expenses can add up quickly. That’s why it’s important to explore Medicare Advantage or Medigap plans that fill in those gaps.
3. Ignoring Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)
Even if you don’t take medications right now, skipping Part D can be a costly decision later. Delaying enrollment in a prescription plan can result in late penalties and leave you without coverage when you need it most. Review your medication list each year and make sure your plan still meets your needs.
4. Not Reviewing Your Coverage Annually
Medicare plans can change each year — and so can your health needs. Premiums, drug formularies, and provider networks may shift. Taking time to review your plan annually during Open Enrollment (October 15–December 7) ensures you stay covered and avoid paying for benefits you don’t use.
5. Trying to Navigate Medicare Alone
With so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of going it alone and end up with coverage that doesn’t fit their lifestyle or budget. Working with a licensed, local Medicare advisor — like Cameron Vigil at Happy Days Senior Insurance Services — helps you understand your options clearly and choose what’s best for you.
The Bottom Line
Medicare doesn’t have to be confusing. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you can protect your health, your wallet, and your peace of mind.
Need Help?
Happy Days Senior Insurance Services is here to help you make sense of Medicare in Texas— without the stress.
📞 Call: 806-282-9301
🌐 Visit: www.happydaysinsurance.com
📍 Serving Texas seniors with heart and integrity.
