Do You Need a Medicare Agent or Broker?
You do not need an agent to enroll in Medicare — you can sign up through Social Security and compare plans yourself for free on the official Medicare Plan Finder. That said, a licensed agent or broker can help you compare plans and enroll at no direct cost to you, because they are paid a commission by the insurer. For unbiased help with no sales involved, a free SHIP counselor is often the best starting point.
You can do it yourself
Enrolling in Part A and Part B is done through Social Security. To pick a drug or Advantage plan, the official Medicare Plan Finder lets you enter your medications and compare every plan in your area by total estimated cost. It is free and shows all plans.
When an agent or broker helps
- You find plan comparisons overwhelming and want someone to walk you through options.
- You want help confirming your doctors and drugs are covered before enrolling.
- You prefer a person to handle the paperwork — at no direct cost to you.
What to watch for
Agents are paid by insurers, and a "captive" agent represents only one company. Ask which companies an agent represents and whether they are paid the same regardless of your choice. For guidance with zero sales incentive, use SHIP.
Frequently asked questions
Does using a Medicare broker cost more?
No. Commissions are paid by the insurance company at rates set by Medicare and are built into the plan whether or not you use an agent — so your premium is the same either way.
What is the free alternative to an agent?
Your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free, unbiased counseling and does not sell insurance. The Medicare Plan Finder lets you compare plans yourself.
Sources
Related guides
Medicare Login Guide is an independent resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, or any government agency. This article is for general information only — confirm current figures and your specific options at medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE.