Your Complete Guide to Individual Health Insurance in Minnesota: What You Need to Know Before Open Enrollment

Your Complete Guide to Individual Health Insurance in Minnesota: What You Need to Know Before Open Enrollment

By Ostrow Health & Life Agency

Navigating Minnesota's individual health insurance market can be daunting for those under 65 without employer coverage. This guide clarifies options like MNsure, offering premium tax credits and assistance programs. Key considerations include provider networks, prescription coverage, and annual deductibles. Secure coverage during open enrollment to protect your health and finances.

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October 12, 2025

I’m Turning 65 — Now What? A Medicare Guide for Beginners

Turning 65 marks Medicare eligibility, introducing federal health insurance navigate challenges. This guide details the Initial Enrollment Period, the distinction between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, and the importance of timely enrollment to avoid penalties. Early research, understanding coverage options, and seeking guidance are essential for a smooth transition to Medicare.

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September 9, 2025

Are You Losing Your Medicare Advantage Plan in 2026? Here’s What You Need to Know!

If you’re one of the many Minnesotans enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may have heard that one of the major Medicare Advantage carriers has announced it will no longer offer these plans in Minnesota starting next year, leaving thousands of beneficiaries wondering: What now? As a licensed Medicare agent in Minnesota, I’m here to walk you through what this means and what you should be doing now to prepare. You do have options—but taking action is key. If you’re impacted, you’ll likely receive an official notice of non-renewal from your insurance carrier this fall—typically in EARLY OCTOBER. What

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September 5, 2025

5 Common Medicare Mistakes to Avoid This AEP

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15th through December 7th, and it’s one of the most important times of year for Medicare beneficiaries. After helping hundreds of clients navigate Medicare enrollment over my 16 years in the industry, I’ve seen the same costly mistakes repeated year after year. Don’t let these common oversights derail your Medicare coverage for 2026. Here are the five most critical mistakes to avoid this enrollment period—and the essential questions you need to ask before making any changes. Mistake #1: Ignoring Premium Changes The Problem: Many Medicare beneficiaries assume their plan costs will

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August 6, 2025

Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplements: Your Complete Guide for Annual Enrollment

With the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period rapidly approaching (October 15th through December 7th), now is the perfect time to understand the key differences between Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Supplements (also known as Medigap policies). Making the right choice during this crucial enrollment window can significantly impact your healthcare costs and coverage for the entire year ahead. Understanding Your Medicare Options As someone who has guided hundreds of seniors through Medicare enrollment over the past 16 years, I often hear the same questions: “Which option is better for me?” and “How do I know I’m making the right choice?” The

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