A Wellcare Giveback plan may reduce the Medicare Part B premium you pay. It is a benefit of a particular Medicare Advantage contract, not a separate federal cash program available to everyone. The amount, service area and other plan benefits must be checked for your exact plan and year.
How the credit works
A reduction can appear through Social Security withholding or on a Medicare Part B premium statement, depending on how you pay. Processing may take time. Ask member services to confirm the effective date and how any delayed credit will be handled; do not stop required premium payments while waiting.
Compare the whole contract
| Item | Question to ask |
|---|---|
| Premium reduction | What amount applies to this contract and my situation? |
| Doctors and hospitals | Are my providers in the exact plan network? |
| Medical costs | What are the visit, hospital and outpatient charges? |
| Annual protection | What counts toward the medical out-of-pocket maximum? |
| Other coverage | How would changing plans affect existing benefits? |
Check eligibility before applying
Medicare Advantage generally requires both Parts A and B and residence in the service area. Enrollment must occur during a permitted period. A neighbor's credit does not establish your eligibility or make the same contract available in your county.
If Medicaid or a Medicare Savings Program pays your Part B premium, ask the plan and state program how a reduction would apply. Do not count it as extra personal income before receiving confirmation.
If the credit is missing
Keep the enrollment confirmation, relevant premium statements and benefit documents. Contact member services with the coverage start date and request a case reference. Review the Annual Notice of Change each fall: a reduction and the rest of the plan's benefits can change for the next year.
Related coverage questions
- Medicare Advantage Costs: Premiums, Copays and Spending Limits
- How to Compare Medicare Advantage Plans: A Practical Worksheet
- Medicare Savings Programs: Where to Start