Medicare, explained in plain English.
What each part covers, which dates matter, and what to look at before you change anything. If you'd like to talk it through, we can connect you with a licensed insurance agent at no cost to you.
Free, and no obligation
Our guides cost nothing, and talking with an agent costs you nothing either. You decide what to do — and doing nothing is always an option.
The four parts, at a glance.
Medicare is split into four lettered parts. Two come from the federal program directly; two are offered by private companies that Medicare approves.
Part A
Hospital insurance: inpatient stays, skilled nursing care after a hospital stay, hospice.
Read the guide →Part B
Medical insurance: doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, medical equipment.
Read the guide →Part C
Medicare Advantage: private plans approved by Medicare that bundle Parts A and B.
Read the guide →Part D
Prescription drug coverage, through plans offered by private companies.
Read the guide →How it works.
Learn the basics
Start with our guides. They explain the parts, the dates and the paperwork without the jargon.
Talk it through, if you want
We can connect you with a licensed insurance agent who reviews the options available where you live.
You decide
There's no obligation and no rush. Take the time you need — or keep what you have.
Fall Open Enrollment ends December 7
From October 15 to December 7 you can change how you get Medicare for next year. Changes take effect January 1.
Other dates worth knowing
By September 30: plans mail their Annual Notice of Change.
January 1: new coverage starts.
Jan 1 – Mar 31: the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period.
Common questions.
What does this cost me?
Nothing. Our guides are free, and there's no charge to you for talking with a licensed agent.
Do you sell Medicare plans?
No. We're an information and advertising website, not an insurance company or agency. If you ask us to, we connect you with a licensed insurance agent, who can discuss specific plans.
Are you part of the government?
No. Golden Third Chapter is privately owned. For official information on all of your options, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048).
Can I change my coverage any time I like?
Mostly not. Changes happen in set windows — the main one runs October 15 to December 7. Certain life events, like moving, open a special window.
I'm still working. Do I need to sign up?
It depends on your situation and on the coverage you have through work. It's a good question to ask an agent, or Medicare directly, before your initial enrollment window closes.
Ready to look at your options?
Start with the basics, and talk to someone only if you want to. Free, no obligation.
Review my options →The Medicare cheat sheet
Parts A, B, C and D on a single page, plus the dates that matter this fall. The email version is coming soon.