Enrolling in a Medicare Plan by Phone
To enroll in a Medicare plan through Via Benefits Insurance Services by phone, call 1-866-322-2824 (TTY: 711) to speak with a Via Benefits licensed benefit advisor.* Our advisors are available Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT. You may call at your convenience or schedule an appointment. For instructions on scheduling an appointment, see Scheduling an Appointment.
The benefit advisor will take the time to understand your healthcare needs and budget, then guide you through your options and help you select a plan that aligns with your priorities.
If you prefer to shop for and enroll in plans online, and need step-by-step instructions, see Shopping for Medicare Plans Online.
If you wish to maintain your current plan, no action is required unless your insurance carrier notifies you that your plan will no longer be available. For more information, see Renewing Your Medicare Plan for Next Year.
Scope of Appointment
Medicare requires a completed Scope of Appointment (SOA) before discussing Medicare plans. If you schedule an appointment, you can complete the SOA then. If you call and are ready to enroll, the benefit advisor can help you complete it.
The SOA:
Ensures the benefit advisor discusses only the products you agree to review.
Confirms your permission for us to discuss Medicare plan options.
Explains the benefit advisor’s role so you understand who you are speaking with and how they can assist you.
The benefit advisor who assists you:
Isn’t employed by or contracted with a Medicare plan.
Doesn't work for the federal government.
May be compensated when you enroll in a plan. Via Benefits benefit advisors aren't paid on commission, which means their compensation does not vary based on the plan you choose. However, CMS requires us to disclose that a benefit advisor may receive compensation related to your enrollment in a plan.
Before You Call
When you call, please have the following information available:
Your Medicare card with your Medicare Number and Part A and Part B effective dates.
A list of your prescriptions, including dosages and frequency.
Your doctors' names and addresses or phone numbers.
Payment information, such as your bank account and routing numbers, in case your plan requires the first month's premium payment at the time of the application.
It’s also a good idea to make a list of any questions you’d like to ask.
What to Expect During Your Call
During your enrollment call, you can expect to speak with knowledgeable professionals who are ready to answer your questions, help you choose the health coverage that best fits your needs, and guide you through the enrollment process.
If the benefit advisor you’ve worked with previously isn’t available when you call, you’ll be connected with another qualified advisor who can confidently complete your enrollment.
Verifying Your Identity
To help protect your personal information, we’ll verify your identity at the beginning of each call. This step is required every time you call us.
You will be asked to confirm your full name (first and last name) and two of the following:
Date of birth
ZIP Code
Phone number
Understanding Your Coverage Needs
The benefit advisor will verify your profile information, including your home address, ZIP Code, and Medicare Number. They will also review your prescription medications and doctors unless this was verified during a previous call.
To better understand your healthcare needs, the benefit advisor will ask a few questions and help you compare plans available in your area, so you can identify the option that best fits your coverage needs and budget.
Completing Your Enrollment
Once you’ve chosen a plan, you’ll complete an application. For the fastest enrollment experience, we recommend you enroll online. For step-by-step instructions, see Shopping for Medicare Plans Online.
If you prefer to complete the application by phone, a trained representative can guide you through the process. During the call, Medicare and the insurance carrier require us to review certain plan details and legal disclaimers with you.
Once the application is complete, you’ll provide a verbal signature to complete your enrollment. We’re strictly monitored for compliance with all Medicare and carrier rules and requirements.
Enrolling by phone can take up to two hours per person. Each person must complete their own application unless a person with legal authority, such as someone with a Power of Attorney, is authorized to act on their behalf.
Note: To meet Medicare and insurance requirements, you may be asked to provide some of the same information for each application.
After You Enroll
Within two weeks, you'll receive a letter from Via Benefits confirming your application was submitted. Note: This letter isn't an approval letter from the insurance carrier.
Within two to three weeks after your enrollment, the insurance carrier may contact you if they need more information. Please respond promptly to avoid delays in the application process. If you have questions about any communications from the carrier, please call us.
*Our licensed benefit advisors specialize in health insurance for retirees. They go through annual training and certification to ensure they can help you make an informed and confident decision.