Medicare Advantage costs
In your October 14, 2020, column, you write: “Some Advantage plans have a zero monthly premium, only requiring you to pay for Part B and co-payments.”
Putting aside the copayments, if you are required to pay Part B, then are you not paying a premium?
Terry Says
Exactly. You pay for Part B — but don’t need to pay for a supplement and Part D. Sound enticing. BUT . . .
These zero premium Advantage plans have a lot of places inside to ding you for copayments and coinsurance. Yes, there is a “maximum” annual outlay — typically $6700. So if you stay well, you come out ahead with a zero premium plan. But if you become ill, then there could be a lot of out-of-pocket expenses to pay. And same thing the next year if your condition requires ongoing medical care. Think twice before taking this “ZeroPremium” deal.
