Question 1

How much does it cost to work with Summit Benefits Group?

Accepted Answer

There is no cost to you. As a licensed independent agency, we are compensated by insurance carriers when a client enrolls — so our guidance is at no cost regardless of whether you ultimately choose to enroll with us.

Question 2

Are you affiliated with the government, Medicare, or Kynect?

Accepted Answer

No. Summit Benefits Group is an independent, licensed insurance agency. We are not affiliated with Medicare, the Social Security Administration, the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, or the federal government.

Question 3

Do you only help people in Somerset, KY?

Accepted Answer

Our home office is in Somerset, KY, but we help clients across Kentucky. We offer in-home appointments and by-phone appointments — whichever is easier for you.

Question 4

How do I start?

Accepted Answer

The easiest first step is a short conversation. You can call (606) 249-6880, use the contact form, or request a review through any of the topic-specific pages.

Question 5

When should I start thinking about Medicare?

Accepted Answer

Most people should start 3–6 months before turning 65. If you are still on employer coverage past 65, the right time depends on employer size and plan coordination.

Question 6

What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medigap?

Accepted Answer

Medicare Advantage is a private plan that replaces Original Medicare, often bundling Part D and extras. Medigap is supplemental insurance that works alongside Original Medicare. They are mutually exclusive — you pick one path.

Question 7

Do I have to pick a new Medicare plan every year?

Accepted Answer

No. But you should review your plan each fall during the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15 – Dec 7). Plans change every year and what fit last year may not fit this year.

Question 8

What happens if I miss my Initial Enrollment Period?

Accepted Answer

You may face late enrollment penalties for Part B and/or Part D that last for life. There are limited recovery windows (General Enrollment Period, Special Enrollment Periods) but they have stricter rules.

Question 9

Is Kynect the same as Healthcare.gov?

Accepted Answer

No. Kynect is Kentucky’s own state-run marketplace. Healthcare.gov is the federal marketplace for other states. Kentucky residents should use Kynect.

Question 10

Who qualifies for Kentucky Medicaid?

Accepted Answer

Under expanded Medicaid, most Kentucky adults with household income at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level qualify. Children and pregnant individuals have separate, often higher thresholds.

Question 11

Can I apply for Medicaid anytime?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Medicaid enrollment is not tied to Open Enrollment. You can apply through Kynect any time your income qualifies.

Question 12

What is a Special Enrollment Period on Kynect?

Accepted Answer

If a qualifying life event occurs (job loss, marriage, move, etc.), you typically have 60 days to enroll in marketplace coverage outside of Open Enrollment.

Question 13

Do I need supplemental insurance if I have a health plan?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your plan’s gaps. Routine dental and vision are often uncovered. Hospital indemnity, critical illness, and AD&D address financial impact from specific events, not day-to-day care.

Question 14

Can supplemental plans be used with Medicare?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Standalone dental, vision, hospital indemnity, critical illness, and AD&D plans can all work alongside Original Medicare, Medigap, or Medicare Advantage.

Question 15

How do I know which supplemental products I actually need?

Accepted Answer

Start by identifying the specific gaps your primary coverage leaves behind. Our Guided Benefit Recommender and a short conversation can help you avoid buying what you don’t need.

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