- Where to Get Help with Medicare Decisions
- Low-Cost Smartphone Plans for Budget-Minded Seniors
- Understanding the Social Security Breakeven Age
- How to Prepare to Be an Executor of an Estate
- The Silent Warning: Understanding Prediabetes
Where to Get Help with Medicare Decisions
Dear Savvy Senior,
I’ll be 65 in a few months and could sure use some help sorting through all the confusing Medicare options that are available to me. Where can I get help with my Medicare decisions?
- Baffled Bob
Dear Bob,
With around 11,400 Baby Boomers turning 65 every day in 2026, you’re asking a very timely question.
Many people approaching Medicare are confused by all the choices available today. In addition to original Medicare (Part A and B) that has been around for more than 60 years, you also have the option of enrolling in a Part D prescription drug plan, and a supplemental (Medigap) policy – both of which are sold by private insurance companies.
Another option is a Medicare Advantage plan. These plans, also offered by private insurers, bundle hospital coverage, medical care, prescription drugs, and often extra benefits like vision, dental, and hearing into one policy. Most operate as HMOs or PPOs and require you to receive care within a defined network of providers in your area.
Medicare Advantage plans have also faced increased scrutiny in recent years over prior-authorization requirements that can delay or deny certain services.
To help you determine which path makes the most sense for your situation, there are several reliable resources available, depending on how much assistance you need.
Tools and Resources
A good starting point is the “Medicare & You” handbook, which provides a clear overview of the program and your options. You can download a copy at medicare.gov/medicare-and-you, and you should receive a printed version in the mail about a month before your 65th birthday.
The Medicare website also features a helpful “Find a Medicare Plan” tool at medicare.gov/plan-compare that allows you to compare health plans, prescription drug coverage, and supplemental policies available in your area. If you prefer to speak with someone directly, call Medicare at 800-633-4227, and a representative can walk you through your options over the phone.
Another excellent free resource is your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), which provides unbiased Medicare counseling either in person or by phone. To locate your local SHIP office, visit shiphelp.org or call 877-839-2675.
You can also contact the Medicare Rights Center (medicarerights.org) at 800-333-4114 for help with specific questions.
In addition, HealthMetrix Research publishes a free Cost Share Report at medicarenewswatch.com that compares Medicare Advantage plans by area based on cost-sharing and health status.
Get Help
If you’d like more hands-on help, you can work with a Medicare insurance agent.
Keep in mind that agents are paid commissions by insurance companies, so it’s important to choose an independent agent who represents multiple insurers – not just one. That gives you access to a broader range of options.
Also understand that commissions are typically higher for Medicare Advantage plans than for Medigap and Part D policies used with Original Medicare. As a result, some agents may have a financial incentive to recommend Advantage coverage. That doesn’t mean the advice is wrong, but it’s wise to ask questions and understand all your choices before enrolling.
You can search for licensed agents through nabip.org, the website of the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals.
Taking the time now to compare your options carefully can help you avoid costly mistakes and give you confidence in the coverage you choose.
Low-Cost Smartphone Plans for Budget-Minded Seniors
Dear Savvy Senior,
What are the absolute lowest-cost smartphone plans for seniors who mainly talk and text but need a little cellular data for email and occasional use? I’m currently paying $40 a month and hoping to cut that down.
- Looking to Save
Dear Looking,
You’re asking a smart question. Many seniors pay far more for smartphone service than they actually use. If most of your phone activity is calls, texts, email, and light web browsing, there’s usually no need to spend $40 or more a month. The good news: plenty of low-cost carriers now cater to light users who want reliable service without the extra cost.
The cheapest plans today mostly come from mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) – smaller carriers that lease coverage from major networks like T‑Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T. Because they don’t run their own towers, MVNOs can offer basic service for a fraction of the cost of major carriers, while still providing nationwide coverage. Here are some of the best options available now.
Cheapest Wireless Plans
According to Consumer Reports, one of the best overall values among low-cost smartphone plans is Mint Mobile. Mint offers a $15-per-month plan that includes unlimited talk and text plus 5 gigabytes (GB) of high-speed data each month. The catch is that you must pay for a full year upfront, which is $180 plus taxes and fees. For seniors who are comfortable paying annually, this can be an excellent way to lock in long-term savings. Mint runs on T-Mobile’s network and works with most unlocked smartphones.
If that’s more service or commitment than you want, the absolute cheapest wireless plan currently available is Ultra Mobile’s PayGo plan. For just $3 per month, plus fees, it provides 100 minutes of talk, 100 text messages, and 100 megabytes (MB) of data. Additional usage costs 3 cents per minute or MB of data and 1 cent per text. This plan is best for very light users or those who primarily want a phone for emergencies. Ultra Mobile also uses T-Mobile’s network.
Another solid budget-friendly choice is Tello, which allows you to customize a plan to fit your specific needs. Plans start at just $6 per month and include unlimited texting, 100 minutes of talk time, and 1 GB of high-speed data. If your usage changes, you can easily add more minutes or data in affordable $1 monthly increments. This flexibility makes Tello especially appealing to seniors who want control over their costs. Tello also operates on T-Mobile’s network.
Other super low-cost plans for digital minimalists include US Mobile, which offers a light plan starting at $8 per month (when paid annually) for unlimited talk and text plus 2 GB of data. Tracfone is another long-standing option, offering very basic 30-minute talk, text and web plan, for $9 per month with auto-refill.
Lifeline Program
If your budget is especially tight, be sure to check into the federal Lifeline Assistance Program. Lifeline provides a $9.25 monthly discount on phone or internet service.
You may qualify if you receive benefits such as Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), public housing assistance, or Veterans Pension. You may also qualify based on income alone if your household income is below 135 percent of the federal poverty level – currently $21,546 for one person or $29,214 for two.
To learn more or apply, visit lifelinesupport.org. If approved, you can choose from participating providers in your area, and in some cases even apply the discount to service you already have, if your provider participates.
Before switching plans, make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with the new carrier’s network. A quick compatibility check on the provider’s website can help ensure a smooth transition and keep your savings on track.
Understanding the Social Security Breakeven Age
Dear Savvy Senior,
I’m trying to figure out the best time for my wife and I to start taking our Social Security retirement benefits and would like to understand the breakeven age. What can you tell me?
—Strategizing Sam
Dear Sam,
As you approach retirement, one of the most important financial decisions you’ll face is when to begin collecting Social Security retirement benefits. A useful concept to guide your thinking is the “breakeven age,” which helps you evaluate the trade-off between taking a reduced benefit early versus a higher one later. Here’s what you should know.
SSA Waiting Game
The Social Security Administration allows you to start collecting your retirement benefits as early as age 62. However, your monthly benefit will be permanently reduced – about .5 percent each month – if you claim before your full retirement age (FRA), which is 67 for those born in 1960 or later. Conversely, for every year you delay claiming beyond your FRA – up to age 70 – your benefit amount increases 8 percent each year. Your benefit maxes out at age 70, so there’s no financial incentive to wait longer.
Breakeven Age
The breakeven age is the point when the total benefits from waiting to claim equal the total you would have received by starting earlier. Live longer than that age and delaying pays off. Live shorter and claiming early pays more. It’s a simple benchmark for retirement planning.
The exact breakeven age varies based on individual circumstances, but a common comparison is between claiming at age 62 versus waiting until FRA. For most people, the breakeven age for this scenario is around 78. Another common comparison is claiming at FRA versus waiting to age 70. The average breakeven age here is around 82.
Other Considerations
Keep in mind that while the breakeven age is a powerful tool, it is just one piece of the puzzle. It doesn’t account for other crucial factors like your health and family longevity. If you have chronic health problems or a family history of shorter lifespans, taking a reduced benefit early might be the most prudent choice to ensure you receive a significant number of payments.
On the other hand, if you’re in good health and expect to live a long life, delaying your benefits to age 70 can provide a much higher income stream that acts as a form of longevity insurance. To estimate your life expectancy, try the online tool livingto100.com.
Furthermore, a married couple’s claiming strategy can be complex. The higher-earning spouse’s decision can significantly impact the survivor benefits for the lower-earning spouse. Waiting for the higher earner to claim at age 70 can provide a larger benefit for the surviving spouse for the rest of their life.
In the end, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The breakeven age provides a useful framework for comparison, but the decision of when to claim your benefits should also consider your health, financial situation and family.
Online Calculators
There are several online calculators that can help you and your wife figure out the best time to claim your benefits. One that’s completely free to use opensocialsecurity.com. Or for a more thorough analysis use maximizemysocialsecurity.com. This tool, which costs $49 for a year, will run what-if scenarios based on your circumstances to find your best strategy for getting the highest possible lifetime payout.
How to Prepare to Be an Executor of an Estate
Dear Savvy Senior,
My uncle recently asked me to be the executor of his will when he dies. I feel honored that he asked me, but I’ve never done this before and I’m not exactly sure what the job entails. What can you tell me about it?
- Helpful Nephew
Dear Helpful,
Being named executor is indeed an honor. It shows your uncle trusts you. But it can also be a significant responsibility, especially if his estate or family situation is complicated. Here’s a look at what the role involves so you can decide if it’s something you’re comfortable taking on.
Executor Duties
As executor, you’ll be responsible for settling your uncle’s affairs after his death. Depending on the estate, your duties may include:
- Filing paperwork with the probate court to validate the will and officially open the estate.
- Locating and taking inventory of all assets.
- Paying outstanding bills, funeral expenses, and any taxes owed using estate funds.
- Notifying banks, government agencies (including Social Security), credit card companies, and the post office of his death.
- Preparing and filing his final income tax return.
- Distributing remaining assets to the beneficiaries named in the will.
Keep in mind that executor responsibilities and deadlines vary by state. Most state bar association websites offer probate guides or checklists that outline the rules where you live.
Get Organized
If you agree to serve, one of the best things you can do now is help your uncle get organized. Make sure his will is up to date and find out where important documents are stored – such as deeds, financial account statements, insurance policies, passwords, and contact information for advisors. Having quick access to these items will save you time and stress later.
If the estate is complex, you don’t have to handle everything alone. An estate attorney or tax professional can guide you through the process, and their fees are typically paid by the estate. To find qualified help, you can search directories at the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (naepc.org) and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (naela.org).
Prevent Family Conflicts
One of the biggest challenges executors face is family tension. Ask your uncle to clearly communicate his wishes to beneficiaries ahead of time, including who will receive personal belongings and family heirlooms. Wills often leave these decisions to the executor, which can create unnecessary friction.
If he hasn’t already, suggest he create a written list outlining how personal property should be distributed. Clarity now can prevent conflict later.
Executor Fees
Executors are generally entitled to compensation, which is paid by the estate. In many states, fees are based on a percentage of the estate’s value, often ranging from 1 to 5 percent, depending on size and complexity.
However, if you’re also a beneficiary, you may choose to waive the fee. Executor compensation is taxable income, while inheritances typically are not subject to income tax.
If you’d like a step-by-step resource to guide you through the process, “The Executor’s Guide: Settling a Loved One’s Estate or Trust,” from Nolo, is a helpful reference and costs about $32 at nolo.com.
Serving as executor can be time-consuming, but with good organization and clear communication, it’s a manageable responsibility, and a meaningful way to honor your uncle’s trust.
The Silent Warning: Understanding Prediabetes
Dear Savvy Senior,
My 60-year-old brother was recently diagnosed with prediabetes, which surprised all of us because he’s fairly active and isn’t overweight. Now I’m wondering if I could be at risk too. Does prediabetes run in families, and what exactly does it mean?
- Younger Sister
Dear Younger,
Yes, you could be at risk. Having a close family member with diabetes increases your chances of developing it yourself, though family history is just one factor. Age, weight, lifestyle, blood pressure, cholesterol, and certain ethnic backgrounds also affect risk. Here’s a clearer look at prediabetes and what you should know.
What Is Prediabetes?
Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. It is far more common than most people realize.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that about 115 million American adults have prediabetes, and the majority don’t know it. Without intervention, many will develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years.
Even before diabetes develops, elevated blood sugar can quietly damage blood vessels and raise the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision problems. Once diabetes develops, daily blood sugar monitoring, medications or insulin, and lifestyle adjustments may become necessary, which can affect overall quality of life.
The good news is that prediabetes does not make diabetes inevitable. In many cases, it can be reversed. Modest weight loss, regular physical activity, and healthier eating habits can significantly reduce – or sometimes eliminate – the risk of progression. In some situations, medications may also be prescribed to help control blood sugar.
Who Should Get Tested?
Prediabetes usually causes no noticeable symptoms, so testing is the only reliable way to know if you have it.
Adults age 45 and older should be screened, particularly if overweight. Younger adults should also consider testing if they are overweight and have other risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, a sedentary lifestyle, or a family history of diabetes. Certain ethnic groups – including Latino, Black, Asian, and Native American adults – have higher risk and may benefit from earlier screening.
To quickly assess your risk, take the free online screening test at DoIHavePrediabetes.org.
How It’s Diagnosed
If you are at risk, your doctor can order one of three blood tests. The fasting plasma glucose test requires an eight-hour fast. The oral glucose tolerance test measures how your body processes sugar. The hemoglobin A1C test reflects your average blood sugar over two to three months and can be done at any time, regardless of when you last ate.
Most Medicare and private insurance plans generally cover diabetes screening tests at little or no cost if you meet risk criteria such as being overweight, having high blood pressure, or having a family history of diabetes. Home glucose meters are not intended to diagnose prediabetes.
Take Action
If you are diagnosed with prediabetes, don’t panic. Many people restore healthy blood sugar with lifestyle changes alone. Losing 5 to 7 percent of your body weight, getting at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, and reducing refined carbohydrates can make a meaningful difference.
For additional support, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sponsors the National Diabetes Prevention Program, which offers structured lifestyle-change classes in person and online across the U.S. (cdc.gov/diabetes-prevention). Local hospitals, clinics, and community centers may also offer similar programs.
The most important step is awareness. A simple screening test can provide peace of mind or give you the opportunity to take action now and prevent diabetes in the future.
Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.
