Medicare Supplement rates increase over time due to medical inflation, claims experience, and age. There are three rating methods: community-rated (same rate for all ages), issue-age-rated (rate based on age when you first enroll), and attained-age-rated (rate increases as you age). Attained-age-rated plans have the lowest initial premiums but the highest long-term costs.
Key Points
- Three rating methods: community-rated, issue-age-rated, attained-age-rated
- Community-rated: same rate for all ages in the area
- Issue-age-rated: rate based on age when you first enroll
- Attained-age-rated: rate increases as you age — lowest initial premium, highest long-term cost
- An independent agent can help you understand rating methods and compare options