Top Medicare Enrollment Mistakes Texans Should Avoid

Oct 01 2025 16:00

Enrolling in Medicare is an important milestone, but it’s easy to make costly mistakes — especially when the rules and timelines feel confusing. Whether you live in Cedar Hill, Dallas, or anywhere across Texas , understanding what not to do can save you stress, time, and money.

 

At Safe Hands Insurance Services , we’ve helped Texans navigate Medicare enrollment since 2009. Here are some of the most common pitfalls we help clients avoid.

 

 

 

Missing Your Initial Enrollment Window

 

 

Your first chance to enroll in Medicare starts three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months after. Missing that seven-month window can result in late enrollment penalties that last for life.

 

If you’re still working and covered by employer insurance, your timing may differ — but it’s important to confirm your eligibility and deadlines before delaying enrollment. Our team helps you understand which timeline applies to your situation.

 

 

 

Not Reviewing Your Coverage Each Year

 

 

Many Texans assume once they pick a plan, they’re set for life. But Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug plans can change their costs, networks, and drug coverage every year.

 

That’s why reviewing your plan before Medicare Open Enrollment (October 15–December 7) is so important. You may find a new plan that better fits your health or budget, especially if your prescriptions or providers have changed.

 

 

 

Choosing a Plan Without Checking Your Providers

 

 

In the Dallas–Fort Worth area, not every doctor or hospital accepts every Medicare Advantage plan. Before enrolling, confirm that your preferred providers are in-network — otherwise, you might face higher out-of-pocket costs or limited access to care.

 

We help our clients check provider networks in advance so they can keep the doctors they trust.

 

 

 

Overlooking Prescription Drug Coverage

 

 

Even if you don’t currently take medications, skipping Part D prescription coverage can backfire later. If you decide to enroll later, you could face a lifetime penalty for each month you went without creditable coverage.

 

The good news? Many low-cost drug plans are available in Texas. We’ll help you find one that covers your prescriptions affordably.

 

 

 

Not Comparing Medicare Advantage and Medigap

 

 

Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans work very differently. Advantage plans often include extra benefits like dental or vision, while Medigap offers predictable costs and nationwide access to care.

 

Many Texans choose the wrong type of plan because they don’t fully understand how each works. We take the time to compare Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap side by side, so you can make a confident, informed decision.

 

 

 

Quick Recap: Avoid These Common Mistakes

 

 

  • Missing your enrollment window
  • Forgetting to review your plan yearly
  • Choosing a plan without checking networks
  • Skipping Part D coverage
  • Not comparing Advantage and Medigap

 

 

A little preparation goes a long way in protecting your health and finances.

 

 

 

Ready to Enroll with Confidence?

 

 

Medicare is too important to navigate alone. Whether you’re turning 65 soon or reviewing your coverage before Open Enrollment, Safe Hands Insurance Services will walk you through your options and handle the details.

 

Call us today or schedule a free consultation to make sure your Medicare plan fits your needs, budget, and Texas lifestyle.