Many Connecticut residents are picking a new Medicare Advantage plan for 2026. If this includes you or someone you know, please keep reading.
You may have seen recent reports about the three insurance carriers with the most popular Medicare Advantage plans exiting the Connecticut market, thereby forcing people to pick a new plan for 2026. Unfortunately, reports are failing to mention that their licensed and certified independent agent will no longer get paid to help them find a replacement.
In 2026, there are eight carriers and 29 plans available in Connecticut. In years past, you could speak to a licensed and certified INDEPENDENT agent to help you navigate your options and understand the coverages available to you and your unique needs.
Unfortunately, insurance companies in Connecticut have recently eliminated commissions to independent agents who enroll people in the most popular Advantage plans. Since Medicare prohibits agents from charging clients a fee directly, independent agents are no longer being paid to help consumers navigate the Medicare landscape.
Why does this matter? Medicare plans are complex and the older we get the more our health care needs change. Having access to an unbiased and certified professional to help you navigate your options is essential, especially with the growing number of scams targeted at this vulnerable population (65+ and people with disabilities).
Carriers are now expecting Medicare eligible Connecticut citizens to research and choose a new Medicare Advantage plan on their own or find an independent agent willing to work for free, which sadly, will eliminate their access to unbiased Medicare expertise.
If you think having a local Connecticut independent agent available to help you in the future, rather than relying on advertisements, insurance company call centers, or AI, then please contact your State Senator and Representatives. Let them know that you rely on the expertise of an unbiased, independent, licensed, and certified Medicare Advantage agent to help you understand and identify which Medicare plans are best for your unique needs.
You can find your Senator’s and Representative’s contact information here: https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/menu/cgafindleg.asp