Although fall Open Enrollment is a busy time for the Senior LinkAge Line® team, the beginning of the year can be just as exciting. From Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment to tax preparations to moves to new homes, the Senior LinkAge Line helps callers navigate events in their lives. Here are some commonly asked questions from older adults and their care partners.
I am enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan that I no longer want. What can I do about it?
January 1 through March 31 of each year is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment period. Advantage plan beneficiaries can switch to another Advantage plan or Original Medicare and a Part D drug plan. Anyone can use the plan finder tool on Medicare.gov to compare Advantage plans or Part D drug plans offered in their area. When choosing a new plan, the main things to consider are: Can I afford the plan premium? Are my providers in network? Are my medications covered at a price I can afford? When you decide on a new plan, you can enroll directly on Medicare.gov, call the plan directly, or call the Senior LinkAge Line (800-333-2433) for further information and enrollment assistance.
My loved one is moving to an assisted living facility, and they told me to call the Senior LinkAge Line. Why?
When someone moves to an assisted living facility, state law requires that they complete a screening with a Senior LinkAge Line specialist. The screening aims to make sure that everyone moving to a facility is making the most informed decision possible. Senior LinkAge Line staff discuss in-home service options, financial assistance options and Medicare options.
After the screening, the specialist provides the individual with a Verification Code which they provide to the facility. The Verification Code is protected data. If a family member or friend wishes to access the code for another person, they will need the person’s verbal permission or proof of Attorney in Fact/Power of Attorney or lease signer status.
If you are interested in resources to stay in your home, visit MNHelp.info for home health aides, transportation, chore services, companionship and more.
How can I get help with my taxes?
The Senior LinkAge Line can refer you to free tax preparation organizations. The Minnesota Department of Revenue, the IRS and AARP offer free tax preparations for your returns. You can look for the closest organization to you at AARP/Tax-Aide, the MN Department of Revenue or the IRS.
I never signed up for Medicare Part B, and I am over age 65. Is it too late?
While most people enroll in Medicare Part B (medical insurance) when they turn 65, those who didn’t enroll when initially eligible can do so during Medicare’s General Enrollment Period that runs January 1 through March 31 each year. Once enrolled, your coverage will start July 1. You can enroll in Part B by calling your local Social Security office which can be found on the Social Security website.
People who have had health coverage through an employer since turning 65 have a special exemption. If you have health insurance through an employer, you can enroll in Medicare Part B at any time without a penalty. You have up to 8 months after losing your coverage to enroll in Part B. You do not have to wait for the General Enrollment Period and do not have to wait for benefits to start.
If you have not had creditable coverage since becoming eligible for Medicare (such as having employer coverage), you may be charged a lifetime penalty. The penalty is 10% of the Part B premium for every 12 months since you were eligible for Medicare but did not have Part B. For example, someone who turned 65 in May 2020 would have a 20% penalty.
Enrolling in Part B gives you a Special Enrollment Period to enroll into an Advantage plan or Part D drug plan. Use the Medicare.gov plan finder tool or call the Senior LinkAge Line to compare your drug plan options.LinkAge Line to compare your drug plan options.
I am having trouble affording rent. What help is there for me?
The Senior Housing Directory lists different housing types in the Twin Cities area, from independent senior living to assisted living to subsidized housing. Visit the directory online or order one free through the Senior LinkAge Line.
If you are looking for subsidized housing, you will find two different options: Project-Based Section 8 and Section 8 Vouchers. Project-Based Section 8 is a government-funded program where the subsidy comes from and stays with privately owned and managed rental units. You apply to the building directly to live there and receive the subsidy, allowing you to pay only about 30% of your income toward rent. Housing Authorities issue Section 8 Vouchers. You apply through a Housing Authority, and you can take it to any rental that accepts Section 8 Vouchers. Visit housinglink.org for more information on Section 8 and view affordable housing listings.
Other programs are available to help lower your bills and make housing more affordable. They include energy assistance, food support and health care financial assistance programs. Call the Senior LinkAge Line for more information.
