Medicare in Texas: Compare Plans & Enroll

How Does Medicare Work in Texas?

Medicare is a United States federal health insurance program designed to provide and reduce the cost of healthcare services for those who are Medicare-eligible.

Although you apply for Medicare in Texas, the system is regulated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a federal program. Even though you’re in Texas, you’ll find that Medicare functions the same across the United States.

As of January 2023, 4,547,406 (approximately 4.5 million) Texans are enrolled in Medicare. That’s nearly 15% of Texans (30.91 million). 

Continue reading to check your eligibility and compare your Medicare plan options.

How to Apply for Medicare in Texas

Eligibility for Medicare in Texas

You are eligible for Medicare in Texas based on your age or eligible disabilities by the Social Security Administration. 

Who Qualifies for Medicare in Texas?

In Texas, along with the rest of the country, you are eligible for Medicare if you meet one of the following criteria:

• You’re aged 65 or older.
• You’re younger than 65 with eligible disabilities by the Social Security Administration.
• You have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

Expanding Coverage Beyond Original Medicare

Nearly everyone eligible enrolls in Original Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). However, Original Medicare doesn’t cover 100% of costs, and all beneficiaries must have prescription drug coverage. Most people expand their coverage beyond Original Medicare (Parts A and B). 

Depending on health needs and budget, most people have Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage plan or Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan), Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage), and Medicare Supplement (Medigap). These are private health insurance plans approved and regulated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). 

Medicare Plan Options in Texas

Of the nearly 4.5 million Texans enrolled in Medicare, 2.2 million (49%) are enrolled in Original Medicare Parts A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance).  The remaining 2.3 million (51%) are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan (Medicare Part C). 2023 is the first year that Medicare Advantage enrollment has surpassed 50% of plan enrollments.

Texans enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan have increased by 237%, up from 18% in 2010 to 51% in 2023. 

You’re likely about to or have made a similar enrollment choice:

1. Enroll in Original Medicare Parts A & B, plus Medicare Part D and, likely, a Medicare Supplement plan (Medigap). 
2. Enroll in a Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) or Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan (MAPD). 

After you enroll in Original Medicare, you should review your options for expanding your Medicare coverage.

Continue reading to learn more about Medicare Parts A, B, C, D, and Medigap options to uncover what’s suitable for your health and budget needs.

Medicare Part A in Texas

What is Medicare Part A?

Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) is part of Original Medicare. Part A is usually premium-free.  

Medicare Part A Eligibility

To be eligible for Original Medicare Part A in Texas, you must meet one of the following criteria:

• You’re aged 65 or older.
• You’re younger than 65 with eligible disabilities by the Social Security Administration.
• You have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

What Does Medicare Part A Cover?

Medicare Part A is hospital insurance. Part A covers medically necessary services delivered by a Medicare-assigned health provider in a Medicare-approved facility. 

These services include:

• Inpatient Hospital Care Coverage: Care received when admitted to the hospital overnight.
• Skilled Nursing Care Coverage: Nursing or therapy care performed by nursing professionals or technical personnel.
• Home Health Care Benefits: A range of health care services in your home for an illness or injury.
• Hospice Care Coverage: Care given to relieve pain and make the individual as comfortable as possible after a doctor has certified a terminal illness with six months or less to live. 

Part A Medicare coverage is limited. To avoid high out-of-pocket costs, discover what is excluded. Read more about Medicare Part A.

Medicare Part A Costs

2024 Medicare Part A Premium in Texas

You are eligible for premium-free Medicare Part A in Texas if you are age 65 or older and:

• You receive retirement benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board.
• You’re eligible for Social Security or Railroad benefits, but you haven’t filed for them yet.
• You or your spouse had Medicare-covered government employment.
• You paid Medicare taxes for 40 quarters.

If you are under 65 years of age, you can get premium-free Part A if:

• You’ve received Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board disability benefits for 24 months.
• You have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and meet specific requirements. 

If you don’t qualify for premium-free Part A, you can purchase it. You may need to pay up to $505 per month in 2024. If you paid Medicare taxes for less than 30 quarters, the standard Part A premium is $505. However, if you paid Medicare taxes for 30-39 quarters, the standard Part A premium is $278.

If you choose to buy Part A, you must also have Medicare Part B (medical insurance) and pay monthly premiums for both Medicare Part A & B. 

If you choose not to buy Medicare Part A, you can still purchase Medicare Part B. 

Medicare Part A Out-of-Pocket Costs: 2024 Deductible, Coinsurance & More

Beyond the monthly premium, Medicare Part A hospital insurance also has a hospital inpatient deductible and coinsurance. These are additional out-of-pocket costs that you should budget for. 

The 2024 Medicare Part A deductible is $1,632. 

The amount of coinsurance you will owe for inpatient care depends on the duration of your stay. Medicare Part A coinsurance in 2024 is:

• Days 1-60: $0 coinsurance.
• Days 61-90: $408 coinsurance per day.
• Days 91 and beyond: $816 coinsurance per “lifetime reserve day” after day 90 (up to 60 days over your lifetime). 

In addition to the deductible and coinsurance costs, Medicare Part A will only cover Medicare-approved expenses. This is why it’s important to know what is covered and what’s not. To avoid high out-of-pocket costs, read more about Medicare Part A.

When to Enroll in Medicare Part A in Texas

The best time to enroll in Medicare Part A is during your Initial Enrollment Period. If you miss that, you can enroll during the General Enrollment Period, or during a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify. 

Medicare Part B in Texas

What is Medicare Part B?

Medicare Part B (medical insurance) is part of Original Medicare. Medicare Part B is NOT premium-free.

Medicare Part B Eligibility

To be eligible for Original Medicare Part B in Texas, you must be eligible for Medicare Part A. 

• You’re aged 65 or older.
• You’re younger than 65 with eligible disabilities by the Social Security Administration.
• You have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

What Does Medicare Part B Cover?

Medicare Part B covers medically necessary and preventative services. 

• Medically necessary services: Services or supplies needed to diagnose or treat a medical condition.
• Preventative services: Health care to prevent or detect illness early. 

Medicare Part B covers:

• Basic medical needs (doctor visits and lab tests).
• Orthopedic, cardiology, radiology, and other specialists from A to Z. 
• Second opinions regarding a medical issue.
• Preventative vaccinations. 
• Clinical research.
• Ambulance services.
• Durable Medicare Equipment (DME).
• Limited outpatient prescription drugs.
• Inpatient, outpatient, and partial hospitalization for mental health.

This is not an exhaustive list of what Medicare Part B covers. Read more about What Part B covers.

Medicare Part B Premium 2024

Medicare’s standard Part B premium for 2024 is $174.70. This is the amount that most people pay for their Part B; however, your premium is based on your income. 

Medicare Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA)

The Part B premium is based on your individual or joint modified adjusted gross income. If you made more than a certain amount, you could pay the standard premium of $174.70 plus an Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). 

Your Part B premium is based on the modified adjusted gross income as reported to the IRS two years ago. In this case, your federal tax return from 2022.

View the table below to determine how much your Part B premium will be.

Medicare Part B Out-of-Pocket Costs: 2024 Deductible, Coinsurance & How to Save

Preventative services are free from a health care provider that accepts your Medicare. 

The 2024 Medicare Part B deductible is $240. 

After you pay the $240 deductible for the calendar year, you typically pay 20% of Medicare-approved costs for most doctor services, including while you’re a hospital inpatient. You’ll also pay 20% for outpatient therapy and Durable Medical Equipment (DME). 

Curious if a test, item, or service is covered? Medicare offers a helpful search tool to check coverage. To avoid surprise or costly out-of-pocket costs, ask about hospital orders if you’re admitted as an inpatient and negotiate the cost of services before they are provided. 

Remember that Original Medicare Part B does not have an out-of-pocket maximum. You will pay 20% for Medicare-approved services or more unless you have a plan to expand your Medicare coverage (e.g., Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage) to cap or reduce your out-of-pocket costs.   

When to Enroll in Medicare Part B in Texas

The Initial Enrollment Period is the best time to enroll in Medicare Part B. This ensures that you avoid Part B late enrollment penalties. If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period, you should enroll during the General Enrollment Period or during a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify.

Creditable Medicare Part B Coverage

Should you delay enrollment in Medicare Part B, it should only be because you have creditable coverage from another source. Creditable coverage means that you have benefits at least as good as those provided by Medicare. Oftentimes, creditable Part B coverage comes from Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, TRICARE for Life (TFL), Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB), or some job-based and retiree benefits. 

You should check annually with your plan administrator to determine if your health benefits are equal to Medicare’s. If they are not, you could be subject to a lifetime penalty when you do enroll in Medicare Part B. 

Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)

What are Medicare Advantage Plans?

Medicare Advantage Plans (MA), also known as Medicare Part C, are one option for receiving your Original Medicare (Part A and B) coverage, with additional benefits. Also, Medicare Advantage plans cap your out-of-pocket costs, unlike Original Medicare. A Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan (MAPD) is a Medicare Advantage plan that provides creditable prescription drug coverage. 

These plans are offered by private insurance companies regulated and contracted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

Who is Eligible for a Medicare Advantage Plan in Texas?

To qualify for a Medicare Advantage plan in Texas, you must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B. You must also live in the plan’s service area you wish to enroll in. Medicare Advantage plans are offered at the county level, and there are many options to choose from. 

Where are Medicare Advantage Plans Most Popular in Texas?

In 2024, there are 385 Medicare Advantage plans available in Texas. That is up from 337 plans in 2022, 289 plans in 2021, and 231 in 2020. Between 2022 and 2023, there are 15% more Medicare Advantage plans available in Texas.

With more plans coming out every year and with more competitive benefits, you have even more opportunities to shop around and find the one that’s suited to your needs.

While Medicare Advantage plans are growing in popularity and plan offerings. There are a few counties in Texas where the percentage of Medicare recipients enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan is the highest. 

In 2024, the 10 Texas counties with the highest Medicare Advantage enrollment are Starr County (71%), Hidalgo County (71%), El Paso County (70%), Willacy County (69%), Zavala County (66%), Cameron County (65%), Jim Wells County (65%), Maverick County (64%), San Patricio County (64%), and Kleberg County (63%).

Nearly all of these counties were in the top 10 for Medicare Advantage enrollment for 2022, except for one. Maverick County did not appear in the top 10 in 2022 and has replaced Nueces County, which was #10 in the top 10 last year.

The percentage enrolled also increased. 2022’s highest penetration percentage was 69%, with a low of 61%. While in 2021 highest penetration percentage was 69%, with a low of 56%. This year, the highest penetration is 71%, with a low of 63%. 

The Benefits Medicare Advantage Plans Provide

Many people choose to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan because of reduced costs and additional benefits. You could qualify for a low monthly premium, lower your out-of-pocket costs, and have additional benefits than what Original Medicare offers. 

Low Premiums 

In every county across Texas, Medicare Advantage plans are available starting at $0 per month. If you enroll in a plan that does charge a premium, you’ll pay the Medicare Advantage plan premium plus the monthly Part B premium. The bonus of Medicare Advantage? Most plans include prescription drug coverage.

Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs

Did you know that Medicare Advantage plans limit out-of-pocket costs for services covered by Medicare Part A and B? Unlike Original Medicare, which doesn’t have a limit on out-of-pocket costs, Medicare Advantage plans set their copayments and coinsurance within limits established by the federal government. This could help you save a lot.

Once the out-of-pocket maximum is reached, including the deductible, the Medicare Advantage plan pays 100% of covered healthcare expenses for the remainder of the year. 

Additional Benefits

Most Medicare Advantage plans in Texas offer benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t provide:

• Dental
• Vision 
• Hearing
• Reduced cost-sharing
• Over-the-counter and wellness products
• Transportation assistance
• Telemedicine
• Fitness programs
• Rewards and incentives programs

What Are Your Medicare Advantage Plan Options in Texas?

The two most common Medicare Advantage plans are Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs). HMOs and PPOs have networks of participating hospitals, doctors, specialists, and other healthcare professionals. 

Three additional plan types are utilized less frequently but remain available within select locations in Texas. These include:

• Provider-Sponsored Organizations (PSOs): This Medicare Advantage plan works similarly to an HMO. Participants of PSOs are required to receive care in their network, but PSOs are operated by the providers themselves—doctors and specialists within a primary care or hospital setting.

• Private Fee-For-Service (PFFS) plans: A type of Medicare Advantage plan offered by a private insurance company. The plan determines how much it will pay doctors, health care providers, and hospitals, and how much you must pay when you get care. With this plan type, you pay any cost-sharing expenses set by the plan at the time of service. After that, the provider bills your plan for the remaining amount. 

• Special Needs Plans (SNPs): A Medicare Advantage plan that limits membership to people with specific diseases or characteristics. These plans tailor their benefits, provider choices, and drug coverage to meet the particular needs of the groups they serve.

Medicare Advantage HMO and PPO Plans

HMO and PPO Medicare Advantage plans have many similarities. 

• Both plan types are available through private insurance companies contracted and regulated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
• They both typically use provider networks.
• There’s usually prescription drug coverage included.
• The plans may have preferred pharmacy networks.
• Both plan types require that you have Medicare Parts A and B and live within the plan’s service area.

The primary difference between Medicare Advantage HMO and PPO plans are cost and flexibility. 

Medicare Advantage HMO

• Lower monthly premium.
• Must choose a Primary Care Physician (PCP).
• Some require a referral from PCP for specialist visits.
• Outside of emergencies, out-of-network services are not covered unless approved in advance.

Medicare Advantage PPO

• Can have higher monthly premiums.
• Can see doctors outside of the PPO plan network but at a higher coinsurance or copayment cost.
• You may need to keep records of out-of-network care.
• You may need to play a more active role in care coordination.

In 2023, Medicare-eligible people have more HMO options (59%) than they do local PPO plan (40%) options. Only 1% of plans available are regional PPOs and private fee-for-service plans. Regional PPO plan enrollment is on the decline, down from 5% in 2020.

Getting Prescription Drug Coverage with Medicare Advantage in Texas

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) requires that everyone on Medicare have creditable prescription drug coverage. Prescription drug coverage is offered with Medicare Advantage Plans. They are called Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans (MAPD) when paired together. 

These plans provide the convenience of having all Medicare hospital, medical, and prescription drug benefits through one plan. Bonus, there is no additional plan premium for prescription drug coverage with a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan. In 2023, 89% of Medicare Advantage plans offer Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans (prescription drug coverage).

How Much Do Medicare Advantage Plans Cost in Texas?

A Medicare Advantage plan’s premium can cost as little as $0 per month. And 100% of people with Medicare have access to a Medicare Advantage plan with a $0 monthly premium. For those that do pay a premium, the monthly average premium for 2024 is $8.94 per month. That’s down from $10.68 in 2022 and $11.11 in 2021. 

Medicare Advantage and Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan premiums are paid directly to the plan provider. They are paid separately from any Medicare Part A or Part B premium paid to Medicare. Usually, payment is withdrawn from a monthly Social Security benefit, electronic withdrawal, or coupon book. At the time of enrollment, your payment method can be chosen. 

What is the Best Medicare Advantage Plan in Texas?

While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all or “best” Medicare Advantage plan in Texas, there are tools to help you make the best decision for your health and budget. 

The best way to discover the best Medicare Advantage plan for you is to gather your doctor, specialist, and medication information and use the Connie Health Medicare plan finder tool to search for plans that have the doctors and medications that you need. 

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has also created a Star Rating system to highlight top-performing plans based on a number of criteria. We don’t recommend that you choose a plan simply because it received a 5-star rating from CMS. 

Remember, your Medicare plan should be unique to your needs. If you choose a plan for a high star rating, it should only be because it suits your health and budget needs first, and the high star rating is a bonus.

Medicare Advantage Star Rating System

The Star Rating system measures the quality of health and prescription drug services received from Medicare enrollees. This rating system can help narrow your Medicare choices. 

The plans are measured by five categories, on a scale of 1 to 5—with five being top-performing or “the best” in:

• Customer services.
• Preventative care.
• Managing chronic conditions.
• Plan responsiveness.
• Member complaints, including from those leaving a plan.

Based on the Star Rating system, there are 8 Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans in Texas with a 5/5 rating for 2024. If you are not enrolled in one of these plans and are interested, you can use the 5-Star Special Enrollment Period to make a switch. 

We recommend that you only use this special enrollment period if the plan suits your health and budget needs first, with the high star rating being a bonus.

When to Enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan in Texas

The best time to enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan in Texas is during your Initial Enrollment Period. If you miss that, you also have the opportunity to enroll during the General Enrollment Period or a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify.  

If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can also use the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period to switch to another plan.

Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)

What is Medicare Part D in Texas?

Creditable prescription drug coverage is a requirement of Medicare. Are you choosing not to enroll in a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan? And you don’t have creditable coverage from another source? If so, then you’ll likely need to enroll in a stand-alone prescription drug plan (Medicare Part D) along with your Original Medicare Parts A and B. 

Medicare Part D pays for some of the costs of prescription drugs at participating pharmacies in your community. You usually pay a monthly premium, which varies by plan, and an annual deductible. 

In 2024, there are 28 stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plans available in Texas. There are 8 plans that will offer lower out-of-pocket costs through the Part D Senior Savings Model. And 28% of people with Medicare Part D get Extra Help. 

Who is Eligible for Medicare Part D?

All individuals with Original Medicare Part A and/or Part B have access to a standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. 

What Does Medicare Part D Cover in Texas?

What Prescription Drugs are Covered by Medicare Part D?

Every plan provides a unique list of covered prescription drugs called a “formulary.” All plans do NOT cover the same prescription drugs. Medicare Part D plans include brand-name and generic drug coverage and are required to have drugs in certain protected classes, such as drug treatments for HIV/AIDS and cancer.

Each plan’s formulary must consist of at least two drugs in the most commonly prescribed categories and classes. This helps people with varying medical conditions get the prescription drugs they rely on. If the formulary for your plan doesn’t include your specific drug, a similar drug should be available. In some cases, if there is no substitute, you can request an exception. 

It’s important to review your Medicare Part D plan annually during the Annual Enrollment Period. That’s because Medicare Part D plans change their formularies annually. Also, therapies change, new prescription drugs are released, and new medical information becomes available. In some instances, plans may also increase the copayment or coinsurance for a particular drug or offer a generic form that can lower your out-of-pocket costs. 

How Much is Medicare Part D?

In Texas, the lowest monthly premium for a stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan is $6.90. But the average basic monthly premium for standard Medicare Part D coverage is $31.50 in 2024, a 1.8% decrease from $32.08 in 2022. 

Medicare Part D Out-of-Pocket Costs

Along with the monthly premium, you’ll be responsible for out-of-pocket medication costs (copayments, coinsurance, deductible). 

Most plans place drugs into different levels, called “tiers.” These tiers determine the out-of-pocket cost or copayment. The higher the tier, the higher the price. If you can get a generic version of the brand-name drug, that will save you money. 

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says that generic drugs are copies of brand-name drugs and are the same as those brand-name drugs in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics, and intended use. You should speak to your doctor or prescriber about generic drug options.  

If you take insulin, you may be able to get prescription drug coverage that offers savings on insulin. 

What is the Medicare Part D Deductible?

Medicare Part D deductibles vary from plan to plan. However, no Medicare prescription drug plan can have a deductible higher than in 2024. Some Medicare Part D plans do not have a deductible. 

Medicare Part D Extra Help

If you are receiving Medicare, have limited financial resources and income, and live in Texas you may qualify for Extra Help. 

Extra help assists with paying for your monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and co-payments related to Medicare prescription drug coverage. If you qualify, you won’t pay a late enrollment penalty when you join a Medicare drug plan. 

Best Medicare Part D Plans in Texas

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) provides Star Ratings for each Medicare plan. And while there isn’t a “best” or one-size-fits-all, you can use the CMS rating system to gauge customer services, preventative care, the management of chronic conditions, plan responsiveness, and member complaints. The ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being excellent. 

Although zero Medicare Part D plans have a 5/5 rating, eight plans earned a 4 out of 5 rating in 2024. 

The following companies offer stand-alone Prescription Drug (Medicare Part D) plans in Texas.

How to Apply for Medicare Part D in Texas

To enroll in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, you can sign-up during your Initial Enrollment Period. If you miss that, you still have the opportunity during the General Enrollment Period or a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify.

Creditable Prescription Drug Coverage

In order to avoid lifetime late enrollment penalties, it’s vital that you have creditable prescription drug coverage. Creditable drug coverage means that you have either as good or better than basic prescription drug coverage (Medicare Part D). There are several types of plans that offer creditable drug coverage if you are not enrolled in Medicare Part D. 

These include:

• Veterans Affairs (VA) plans
• TRICARE for Life (TFL)
• Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB)
• Some job-based and retiree health plans

You should check with your employer or plan to ensure that your prescription drug coverage is creditable. If you do not have creditable prescription drug coverage and miss your Initial Enrollment Period, you may incur a lifetime late enrollment penalty. 

Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap Plans)

What is a Medicare Supplement plan in Texas?

A Medicare Supplement plan, or Medigap plan, helps Original Medicare enrollees have predictable costs. In Texas, 931,380 Texans (40% of fee-for-service enrollees) enrolled in Medicare Supplement coverage in 2021. That’s up 2% since 2020 and 38% of fee-for-service enrollees, and in 2019 when 911,802 Texans (36%) were enrolled in a Medicare Supplement plan.

Medicare Part A covers some inpatient costs (hospital and nursing facility care), while Medicare Part B covers 80% of outpatient costs (doctor’s bills and other medical expenses). Some out-of-pocket expenses could include deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. The coverage gap may cost you more than you expect. And Original Medicare has no maximum for out-of-pocket costs. 

That’s why many people opt for enrolling in Original Medicare plus a Medicare Supplement plan. These plans help pay for some, if not all, of the out-of-pocket expenses that you would otherwise pay under Original Medicare. These plans only combine with Original Medicare and are not stand-alone plans. 

Private insurance companies licensed by the Texas Department of Insurance are authorized to sell Medigap plans. And all plans are standardized. 

Remember, if you choose to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan, you must have creditable prescription drug coverage either through a stand-alone Medicare Part D plan or another source. Medicare Supplement plans do not provide creditable coverage.

What Medigap Plans Are Available in Texas?

There are ten types of Medicare Supplement plans available. The plans are lettered A – G and K – N. Every Medicare insurance company must offer at least Medicare Plan A. 

Most Popular Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap) in Texas

The top 5 most popular Medicare Supplement plans in Texas are plans G, F, N, J, and C. In 2021, 416,173 of 931,380 (44.7%) Texan Medicare enrolled in Plan G. Followed by 387,814 (41.6%) in Plan F, 76,705 (8.2%) enrolled in Plan N, 16,469 (1.7%) enrolled in Plan J, and 9,265 (1%) enrolled in Plan C.

Most Popular Medigap Plans in Texas

1. Medicare Supplement Plan G in Texas (44.7%)
2. Medicare Supplement Plan F in Texas (41.6%)
3. Medicare Supplement Plan N in Texas (8.2%)

As of January 1, 2020, plans that include the Part B deductible were phased out. That means that if you turned 65 on or before December 31, 1999, you can enroll in Plan C or Plan F. If you turned 65 on or after January 1, 2020, these plans are no longer available to you. Individuals already enrolled in those plans can keep their coverage.

Plan G is the closest to discontinued Plan F, which is likely why Plan G had the second-highest enrollment of supplement plans in Texas. 

Remember, just because a plan is popular doesn’t mean it’s right for your health and budget needs. It’s important to weigh monthly premium costs with out-of-pocket expenses. Some plans with lower premiums may have higher out-of-pocket costs.

Medicare Supplement Plan Eligibility & Enrollment in Texas

To qualify for a Medicare Supplement plan, you must be enrolled in Original Medicare Parts A and B. You must also live in the county where the plan is available. 

When to Enroll in Medigap in Texas?

The best time to enroll in a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan is when you are first eligible during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. This period only happens once and cannot be changed or repeated. 

If you miss your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, there is no guarantee that you can still enroll in a Medigap plan. If you can purchase a Medigap policy, it could cost more due to past or present health conditions. 

Enrollment outside of your Medigap Open Enrollment Period may also require specific medical underwriting requirements or situations. Insurance companies generally use medical underwriting to decide whether to accept your application and how much to charge for the policy. 

Medicare Savings Programs in Texas

What is the Medicare Savings Program in Texas?

If you need help paying for Medicare, you can apply for one of four Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) available in Texas. They can assist in paying your Medicare premiums, including Medicare Part A and Part B deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. 

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) manages the four Texas Medicare Savings Programs. Each program has a different maximum income for eligibility, but the maximum accessible financial assets are nearly the same. 

Maximum Financial Resources

For three of the four programs, the financial limit requirement is the same. To qualify for the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program, Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary Program, or the Qualifying Individual Program, limited financial resources are a requirement.

In 2024, when all financial resources are added up, they should equal no more than $9,090 for an individual and $13,630 if married. If the maximum countable resources exceed this, then you are ineligible for all Medicare Savings Programs because the Qualified Disabled and Working Individual Program’s financial requirement is even more strict. 

In 2024, the maximum financial resources for the Qualified Disabled and Working Individual Program is $4,000 for an individual and $6,000 if married.

What Should Be Included in Financial Resources?

• Bank accounts and Certificates of Deposit (CDs)
• Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)
• Investments in stocks and bonds
• Land or buildings (real property)
• Oil, gas, or mineral rights
• Jewelry and antiques
• Cars and vehicles
• Boats and recreational vehicles

What to Exclude From Financial Resources

• Your primary residence – the Texas homestead where you live and consider your primary place of residence
• Life insurance, if valued at $1,500 or less
• Separately identifiable burial funds of $1,500 for you and your spouse
• The value of burial plots
• One car

Maximum Income

There are varying monthly income limitations for each of the Medicare Savings Programs. The maximum gross income you can have as an individual is $4,945 in 2024, and if married, $6,659. To receive the most help, you would need to have a maximum gross income of $1,235 (individual) or $1,663 (married) in 2024. Read what is counted towards monthly income and then review the table below to see if you qualify for any of the four Medicare Savings Programs.

What Should Be Considered Income?

• Social Security benefits
• Railroad, state, or local retirement benefits
• Investment interest or dividends
• Gifts or contributions
• Civil service annuities
• Veteran or private pension benefits
• Earnings, wage, royalties, and rental income
• The value of food, clothing, or shelter paid by someone else, including your spouse

Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program

The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program could help pay for Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance if you are eligible for Medicare Part A and meet income and financial resource limit requirements. 

As a recipient, you would receive a Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program identification card to show medical providers. This card would be provided by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Your eligibility would begin on the first day of the month after you are certified for benefits.

Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program

The Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary Program (SLMB) could help you pay for your Medicare Part B premiums. If you receive Medicaid, you may also receive SLMB benefits. But if you are SLMB-eligible, you will not receive regular Medicaid benefits or a monthly medical identification card. 

SLMB eligibility begins the month of application, and if you meet all the income and financial asset criteria, medical coverage is eligible for three months before application. Retroactively. Income eligibility is based on the Federal Poverty Level limits and is updated annually by the Census Bureau. 

Qualifying Individual (QI) Program

The Qualifying Individual Program (QI) will cover the cost of Medicare Part B premiums if you meet income and financial asset eligibility requirements. With this program, you cannot be eligible or receive regular Medicaid and the QI program coverage at the same time. Also, if you are QI-eligible, you will not get regular Medicaid benefits or a medical identification card.

Eligibility for the Qualified Individual Program is decided on a calendar year basis. Your eligibility may begin the month that you apply for coverage. You could also be eligible for coverage three months prior if you meet all the criteria, but the three-month period cannot extend into the previous calendar year. 

Qualified Disabled and Working Individual (QDWI) Program

The Qualified Disabled and Working Individual Program (QDWI) will pay for only the Medicare Part A premium if you meet eligibility requirements. You cannot qualify for regular Medicaid and the QDWI program at the same time. 

To be eligible, you must be under 65 years of age, have a disabling impairment, continue to work, not be otherwise eligible for Medicaid, and meet the income and financial resource requirements.

How Do I Apply for Medicare Savings Programs in Texas?

Medicare Savings Programs are for those who are already enrolled in Medicare. Not yet enrolled? Enroll in Medicare Part A and/or Part B, and then you can apply for a Medicare Savings Program in Texas. If you’re not enrolled in Parts A  or B yet, Connie Health can help. Call (623) 223-8884. 

If you already have Part A and your income and financial resources are within the limits of the program you want to apply for, a Connie Health agent can help you complete an Application for Benefits with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Call now to speak with a local licensed agent: (623) 223-8884

Note: Even if your income and financial assets are higher than the amounts listed above, you may be eligible. You should speak to a local licensed agent to discuss your eligibility.

Enrollment Deadlines in Texas

Do you know when to enroll in Medicare? There are six enrollment periods that you need to know. Two happen only once, three happen yearly, and one occurs only under special circumstances. Read below to learn about each of these enrollment periods. 

One-Time Enrollment Periods

Initial Enrollment Period

Most people become eligible for Medicare enrollment during their Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). The Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before your 65th birthday, the month you turn 65, and ends three months after your 65th birthday. You have this seven-month window to enroll in Medicare for the first time.

Your Initial Enrollment Period is one of the most critical enrollment periods. If you miss it, you may have to wait until the General Enrollment Period to enroll in Medicare. This could result in late enrollment penalties for your lifetime.

Be sure you know when your Initial Enrollment Period is. Take our Medicare eligibility quiz to find out and receive enrollment reminders. 

Medigap Open Enrollment Period

The Medigap Open Enrollment Period is the best time to buy a Medigap plan, also known as a Medicare Supplement plan. You’ll likely get better pricing and greater plan options during the Medigap Open Enrollment Period. It’s also when you can sign up for any Medigap plan regardless of preexisting health conditions. 

This one-time enrollment period begins the first month that you are enrolled In Medicare Part B, and you’re age 65, and lasts for six months. After this enrollment period, you may not be able to enroll in a Medigap plan, or if you’re able, it may cost more due to previous or present health conditions.  

Enrollment Periods That Occur Every Year

Annual Enrollment Period

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), also called the Medicare Open Enrollment Period, is every year between October 15 and December 7. This enrollment period is for people already enrolled in Medicare Parts A & B. 

This is the time to have your Medicare plan reviewed by a local licensed agent. We recommend doing this annually to ensure that you’re on the best plan in your county—for your health needs and budget. Here are two primary reasons why.

• Your Medicare plan might change its contract with Medicare, and you could lose doctors you have a relationship with or prescription drugs you rely on. 
• Private insurance companies that offer Medicare Part C, Part D, and Medigap plans compete for your business. Every year, they offer new plans to meet your changing needs better. You could find a higher-quality plan with better benefits at a lower cost when you shop around.

Learn how to be prepared for the next Medicare Annual Enrollment Period by reading our AEP ultimate guide.

Once you’ve reviewed your plan with an agent, you have six possible coverage changes: 

• Switch to Original Medicare from a Medicare Advantage plan (Medicare Part C).
• Disenroll in Original Medicare and enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan.
• Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another with or without prescription drug coverage.
• Enroll in a standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.
• Change from one standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan to another.
• End your standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan coverage.

General Enrollment Period

Did you miss your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) and don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period? If you need to enroll in Original Medicare Part A or B, the General Enrollment Period is a date to circle on your calendar. 

The General Enrollment Period (GEP) is January 1 – March 31 annually, with coverage beginning July 1. If you’re enrolling for Medicare Part A or B during the General Enrollment Period, you may have late-enrollment penalties because of delayed enrollment. 

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period

If you’ve already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan (Medicare Part C), you can review your plan and make one switch between January 1 and March 31 annually. This period is called the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. 

If you don’t make a change during this enrollment period, you must wait until the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) or a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to make a switch if you qualify. 

During the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, you can:

• Return to Original Medicare Parts A & B.
• Join a Medicare Part D plan (standalone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan) if you return to Original Medicare.
• Change Medicare Advantage plans with or without prescription drug coverage.

Enrollment Periods That Are Circumstance Dependent

Special Enrollment Period

A Medicare Special Enrollment Period (SEP) enables you to make a Medicare plan switch or sign up for a Medicare plan outside the five standard enrollment periods listed above. 

There are three primary reasons you would qualify for a Special Enrollment Period:

• A Qualifying Life Event

Did your primary residence change, did you lose your health insurance, did you get other health insurance or another special circumstance? Each Qualify Life Event Special Enrollment Period has unique timing. You should speak with a local licensed agent.  

• 5-Star Special Enrollment Period

Medicare uses a rating system to share the performance of plans. A plan can be between 1 and 5 stars – with 5-stars being excellent. If a 5-star rated plan is available in your county, you can use the 5-Star Special Enrollment Period. You can switch from your current plan to a 5-Star Medicare Advantage Plan, Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan (MAPD), or a stand-alone Prescription Drug Plan (Medicare Part D). 

You can only use this Special Enrollment Period once between December 8 and November 30. Call to speak with a local licensed agent to see if a 5-star plan is available in your county. Or read about 5-Star Medicare Advantage plans in Texas.

• Working past age 65

Are you or your spouse working past the age of 65 and delaying Medicare? You can avoid accruing Medicare Part B and Part D penalties by ensuring your job-based healthcare coverage provides benefits at least as good as Medicare provides. This is known as creditable coverage. You should confirm that you have creditable coverage each year you consider delaying Medicare coverage. 

Once you lose your employer-based health coverage, you have eight months to enroll in Medicare Parts A and B during this Special Enrollment Period. But you only have 63 days to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan (Medicare Part C) or Medicare Part D. If you don’t enroll in the first two months, you may have late enrollment penalties. Important note: COBRA does not count as creditable coverage.

Medicare Resources in Texas

Texas Health and Human Services Aging

Texas Health and Human Services help seniors access services for independent living, federal and state benefits, caregiving resources, food access, and long-term care services. It can direct you to local area agencies on aging, which can help you find available resources in your local area.

Contact the Texas Health and Human Services

Phone Number: 1-512-424-6500 (TTY 1-512-424-6597)
Website to apply for benefits in Texas
Texas Health and Human Services Social Service hotline

Social Security Administration

The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers retirement and disability income programs in the United States. They provide financial support for retirees. You can apply for retirement, disability, and Medicare benefits through SSA.

Contact the Social Security Administration

SSA Phone Number: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)
Social Security Administration FAQ
Social Security Administration local office locator
Email the Social Security Administration

The Texas Association of Regional Councils

The Texas Association of Regional Councils works with the Texas Health and Human Services Department to implement quality services at the local level. Programs include the Area Agencies on Aging and the Aging and Disability Resource Centers.

Contact the Area Agencies on Aging

Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) Phone Number: 1-800-252-9240
Map of Area Agencies on Aging
Texas Association of Regional Councils contact page

Texas Department of Insurance

The Texas Department of Insurance can provide information and resources about medical and long-term care insurance. The department can help you look for coverage, determine your policy, or file a complaint.

Contact the Texas Department of Insurance

Texas Department of Insurance Consumer Helpline: 1-800-252-3439
Texas Department of Insurance Main Phone Number: 1-800-578-4677
Texas Department of Insurance website

Texas Medicare Savings Program

The Medicare Savings Program can help you pay for some or all of your monthly Medicare payments, co-pays, and deductibles. The Medicare Savings Program is managed by the Texas State Health Insurance Assistance Program.

Contact the Texas Medicare Savings Program

Texas Medicare Savings Program Phone Number: 1-800-252-9240
Directory of Services

Texas State Health Insurance Assistance Program

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program provides unbiased counseling and assistance with making decisions about Medicare. The program offers Medicare education, help with Medicare eligibility and enrollment, information about long-term care insurance, and more.

Contact the State Health Insurance Assistance Program

Texas Health Information, Counseling, and Advocacy Program (HICAP) Phone Number: 1-800-252-9240
Directory of Services

Railroad Retirement Board

Working with the Social Security Administration, the Railroad Retirement Board administers retirement benefits for railroad workers and their families in the United States.

Contact the Railroad Retirement Board

Texas RRB Office Phone Number: 1-877-772-5772
RRB National Telephone Service: 1-877-772-5772
General TTY Number: 1-312-751-4701
Headquarters Personnel Directory: 1-312-751-4300
Railroad Retirement Board website

Sources

Custom State Reports.

Fact sheet 2022 Medicare Advantage and Part D Advance Notice Part II.

Fact sheet 2023 Medicare Star Ratings. 

Medicare Advantage 2023 spotlight: First look.

Medicare Costs.

Medicare Open Enrollment in Texas, 2023.

Medicare Savings Programs Eligibility and Coverage.

News alert CMS releases 2023 projected Medicare basic part D average premium.

The State of Medicare Supplement Coverage.

Total number of Medicare beneficiaries by type of coverage.

Yearly deductible for Drug Plans.

Last updated: July 5, 2023