Say what you’re after
Use the guide above, then share a few details in the form below if you’d like help. It’s optional, and it’s only a request for a conversation.
Medicare, at a steady pace
Medicare feels like a staircase. Let’s put a rail beside you.
Handrail is a calm, plain-language place to find your footing: what the parts are, when the windows open, and a licensed agent to talk it through if you want one. No pressure, no jargon.
- Free to use
- Plain English
- Not a government site
One question at a time
Tell us where you are today.
Pick the answer that sounds most like you. We’ll show a short, general explanation. Nothing you choose here is saved or sent. The real conversation, if you want one, comes later.
First things first: which of these sounds like you?
Thank you. And what would you like to understand first?
Talk to a licensed agent
When you’re ready, the next section is where you can ask for a conversation. It is your call, and it’s free.
How Handrail works
Three steps up, at your pace.
Handrail is a free informational and referral service. We don’t sell plans ourselves. We help you get oriented, and connect you with licensed agents and partner organizations if you ask us to.
A licensed agent may reach out
With your consent, a licensed insurance agent or partner may contact you to answer questions. Not every plan is offered in every area.
You decide, no rush
Take whatever time you need. Compare, ask your SHIP counselor, talk with family. Nothing obliges you to choose anything.
The handholds
The parts of Medicare, in plain words.
Think of each as a post along the rail. You don’t need to hold all of them at once.
Descriptions are general. What is covered, and what you pay, depends on the specific plan and your situation. Always confirm with Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE.
Part A: hospital coverage
Generally helps with inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care after a qualifying stay, hospice and some home health care.
Part B: medical coverage
Generally helps with doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and some medical equipment. Part A and Part B together are called Original Medicare.
Part C: Medicare Advantage
An alternative way to receive Parts A and B, offered by private companies approved to do so. Plans often include extras and have networks, and they vary by area.
Part D: prescription drugs
Drug coverage offered through private plans. Each plan has its own list of covered drugs and its own pharmacies.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Insurance sold by private companies that can help with some costs Original Medicare doesn’t pay. It works alongside Original Medicare, not with Medicare Advantage.
The landings
Four windows worth knowing about.
Like landings on a staircase, these are places to pause and decide. Your own dates depend on your birthday and circumstances.
Initial Enrollment Period
A 7-month window: 3 months before your 65th birthday month, the month itself, and 3 months after.
Annual Election Period
Each fall, people with Medicare can review and change Medicare Advantage and Part D plans for the next year.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
For people already in a Medicare Advantage plan: a chance to make certain changes early in the year.
Special Enrollment Periods
Triggered by qualifying events, such as moving or losing other coverage. Rules vary, so check your situation.
Dates shown are general program windows. Confirm yours with Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048) or your local SHIP.
When you’re ready
Talk it through with a licensed agent.
Share a few details and a licensed insurance agent or partner may contact you. Plans vary by ZIP code, availability and eligibility.
Questions
Things people often ask.
Is Handrail part of Medicare or the government?
No. Handrail is operated by a private company and is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.
Does it cost anything to use?
Using Handrail is free. It is an informational and referral service. Any plan you choose has its own terms, which an agent or the plan itself will explain.
Will someone call me?
Only if you ask for it. If you submit the form and consent, a licensed insurance agent or partner may contact you by phone, text or email. You can opt out at any time.
Can you tell me every plan available to me?
No. We do not offer every plan available in your area. For information on all of your options, contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048) or your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
What is a SHIP?
A State Health Insurance Assistance Program offers free, local counseling about Medicare. Every state has one. Ask for it by that name, or through 1-800-MEDICARE.
Who are your partners?
Independent insurance and benefits organizations. See the partners page. Listing is informational and not an endorsement.