You can start with Medicare even when VA care is not part of your coverage.

List Medicare Parts A and B, any current health plan, employer coverage and prescription coverage. Do not select TFL or CHAMPVA in a comparison unless the relevant person actually has that program.

Questions about VA enrollment belong with VA. A Medicare plan application is not an application for VA health care.

Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage offer different structures for provider access, costs and drug coverage. Medigap may be considered with Original Medicare, subject to applicable buying rules.

Use your real doctors, medications, travel and budget in the comparison. Veteran-focused wording in advertising does not replace the eligibility and coverage terms in the plan documents.

Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help are assistance pathways with eligibility requirements. They are not the same as a Medicare Advantage extra benefit or a premium-reduction feature.

Use the official programs to check eligibility and application steps. Do not assume a person must choose a particular private plan before asking about financial assistance.