Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans help cover the out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare doesn’t, like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. You can see any doctor that accepts Medicare, and there’s no network. Medicare Advantage plans, on the other hand, are all-in-one alternatives that often include extra benefits like vision or dental. Still, they usually require you to use a network of doctors and may have different costs and rules.

Most people should enroll in Medicare during their Initial Enrollment Period, which starts three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after. If you’re already receiving Social Security, you’ll be enrolled automatically. If you’re still working and have employer coverage, you may be able to delay without penalty—but it’s important to review your options to avoid gaps or late fees.

Long-term care insurance isn’t required, but it can be very helpful. Medicare doesn’t cover most long-term care needs, like help with bathing, dressing, or living in a nursing home. If you want to protect your savings and have more choices for care in the future, long-term care insurance can be a smart part of your retirement plan.

UnitedHealthcare and Humana offer Medicare Advantage plans, which are private alternatives to Original Medicare. These plans include everything Medicare Parts A and B cover, often with extra benefits like dental, vision, and prescription drugs. You’ll usually need to use a network of doctors and may have different costs or rules, so it’s important to compare plans to find one that fits your needs.