Do Medicare brokers cost anything?

No. The insurance company pays the broker when you enroll. You don't pay a fee for the comparison or the enrollment help.

Is a broker the same as an agent?

Not quite. An independent broker represents several companies. A captive agent represents one. Ask which kind you're talking to.

Can a broker help if I've Medicaid or VA coverage?

Yes. A broker can check how a Medicare plan works with your Medicaid, VA or FEHB benefits. Some plans are built for people with both Medicare and Medicaid (Medicare.gov).

When should I call a broker about turning 65?

Call about 3 months before your birthday month, when your Initial Enrollment Period opens (Medicare.gov). That gives you time to compare plans before coverage starts.

How to find the right insurance brokers for medicare (complete guide)

Insurance brokers for medicare are licensed agents who compare plans from several insurance companies and help you enroll, usually at no cost to you because the plan pays them. A good broker checks your doctors and prescriptions before naming any plan. So look for an independent broker licensed in your state who works with more than one carrier and reviews your coverage every year.

Reviewed by Jeremy Weiser, Licensed Insurance Agent since 2007 · Published November 4, 2026 · Last updated November 4, 2026

What this means in plain English

Private companies approved by Medicare sell Medicare Advantage and Part D plans (Medicare.gov). A broker helps you choose among them and handles the paperwork. You can also compare plans yourself on Medicare's Plan Finder or get free counseling through your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (Medicare.gov).

What to look for in insurance brokers for medicare

Check that the broker holds a license in your state. You can confirm this through your state insurance department. A good broker names the carriers they work with, asks about your doctors, drugs and pharmacy before showing plans, and explains why one plan might fit you better than another without pushing. Ask what happens after you enroll. If you speak Spanish, ask for an agent who does too.

Top options compared

An independent broker compares several carriers and stays with you, but only offers carriers they're appointed with. A captive agent knows one company well but can't compare. Call centers are quick, though you may reach a different person every time. SHIP counselors give free, unbiased guidance but don't sell plans. Plan Finder shows every plan in your area, and you do the comparison yourself.

How to choose the right insurance brokers for medicare

Write down your doctors, prescriptions and monthly budget first. Then call two brokers and ask each one the same questions. Which carriers do you offer in my county? How are you paid? Who do I call after I enroll? Choose the broker who asked about your situation before naming a plan. And if you live near a local office, meeting in person makes it easier to bring your pill bottles and cards.

What to do next

You now know what a broker does, how brokers get paid and what to ask. Write down your doctors and prescriptions today. Then talk with a licensed agent at The Medicare Store. The agent compares plans across many carriers, enrolls you and checks in six times in your first year, twice a year after that and again every Open Enrollment. Call or text 888-333-5853, or schedule a free meeting at themedicarestore.com. You can visit an office in Las Vegas, Reno, Phoenix, Albuquerque, McAllen or Laredo, ask for a house call or get phone help in any state, in English or Spanish.