Do the Medicare Advantage benefits advertised on TV apply to me?

During the Annual Enrollment Period from October 15 through December 7, Medicare Advantage plans run television ads with wild-sounding claims—like they will wash your car, give you a back massage and cut your toenails, all for free.

But Medicare Advantage plans can have vastly different benefits depending on your county, ZIP code and the particular plan available there.

A national advertisement may highlight attractive benefits that are not included in the plan options available in your local area.

Do not choose coverage based on the commercial; what matters is the actual plan available where you live, including its doctors, prescriptions, costs and rules.

If you need help, talk with somebody who knows your local market—or is experienced enough to research it carefully—and will give you a straight answer.

Source: Medicare.gov: Medicare Open Enrollment

This general educational information is not individual plan advice. Plan availability and benefits vary by location and contract year.