JBJ Insurance helps individuals and families in Washington understand and enroll in Medicare. As an independent broker, we compare plans across carriers – so the recommendation we make is based on what fits your situation, not on who pays us best.
The Parts of Medicare
Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care.
Part B (Medical Insurance) covers doctor visits, outpatient care, durable medical equipment, and preventive services like screenings and annual wellness visits.
Part C (Medicare Advantage) is a private plan that bundles Part A, Part B, and usually Part D into one policy. Run by Medicare-approved insurers; uses network restrictions in most cases.
Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) covers prescription medications. Available as a stand-alone plan added to Original Medicare, or built into most Medicare Advantage plans.
Two ways to get your coverage
Once you have Medicare Part A and Part B, you have a choice in how to round out your coverage.
- Original Medicare + a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) + a Part D drug plan. Provider flexibility, no network restrictions, and predictable out-of-pocket costs. About 25% of our clients go this route.
- Medicare Advantage. A single bundled plan with lower premiums but network restrictions and copays. About 75% of our clients go this route.
Each option has trade-offs. The full breakdown is in our 2026 Medicare Education Guide, and the Medigap Plan Comparison shows what each standardized supplement plan covers.
When you can enroll
Medicare has specific enrollment windows. Most people sign up during their Initial Enrollment Period – the seven months around their 65th birthday. If you delayed Part B because you were covered by an active employer plan, you have an eight-month Special Enrollment Period after that coverage ends.
For a full breakdown, see Medicare Enrollment & Change Windows.
What it costs
Everyone on Part B pays the federal premium, which is set annually and adjusted by income through IRMAA. Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage premiums are separate, and Medicare Advantage premiums can be as low as $0 per month.
For 2026 numbers, IRMAA brackets, and Washington State Medicare Savings Programs, see 2026 Medicare Costs & Premiums.
Apply for Medicare Part A and Part B
Apply for Part A and Part B directly with the Social Security Administration at ssa.gov/medicare.
Talk to us
Have questions about Medicare? Visit our contact page to schedule a Zoom or phone call. There is no cost to work with an independent broker, and the conversation comes with no obligation to enroll.
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.