Medicare Mistakes: Fixed Income Seniors Must Avoid in 2026

If you’re living on a fixed income in Orange County, Medicare might feel confusing—or even overwhelming. Rising premiums, medication costs, and hidden out-of-pocket expenses can make it hard to keep up.

The good news?

You can take control of your coverage and protect your wallet by avoiding these common mistakes.

Medicare Mistakes

Let’s look at five costly Medicare mistakes that can drain your income—and how to fix them before they happen.

1. IGNORING EXTRA HELP AND MEDI-CAL BENEFITS

Thousands of seniors in Orange County qualify for financial help through programs like Extra Help, Medi-Cal, and Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs)—but never apply. These programs can lower or even eliminate your Medicare costs.

How to Fix It: Check your eligibility every year. For 2026, individuals earning under about $1,900/month (or $2,575 for couples) may qualify for help with premiums, deductibles, and prescription costs.

2. CHOOSING A PLAN BASED ONLY ON THE PREMIUM

Many seniors focus on finding a $0 premium Medicare Advantage plan—but lower premiums don’t always mean lower total costs. High copays and drug costs can eat into your fixed income.

How to Fix It:Compare your total yearly expenses: doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions. Use Medicare’s Plan Finder or get help from a licensed agent who can review plans tailored to your income and needs.

3. MISSING OUT ON LOCAL ADVANTAGE PLANS WITH EXTRA BENEFITS

Some of the best Medicare Advantage plans in Orange County offer additional benefits like dental, vision, hearing aids, OTC cards, and free transportation. If you skip comparing these options, you might be leaving hundreds of dollars in unused value.

How to Fix It:Ask about 2026 local plans such as SCAN Health Plan and Alignment Healthcare, which include enhanced low-income benefits for qualified members.

4. NOT REVIEWING YOUR PLAN EACH YEAR

Medicare plans can change annually—new costs, new networks, or new drug lists. Staying in the wrong plan could cost you thousands.

How to Fix It:Mark your calendar for the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15–Dec 7). Review your plan each fall to make sure it still meets your needs and your budget.

5. NOT SEEKING PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE

Medicare rules can be complex—especially when you’re also dealing with income limits and multiple programs. Trying to navigate it alone could mean missing benefits or overpaying.

How to Fix It:Work with a licensed Medicare specialist familiar with Orange County programs. A good advisor will help you apply for cost-saving benefits, compare plans side by side, and avoid coverage gaps—all at no cost to you.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR FIXED INCOME SENIORS

• Keep a simple budget worksheet showing your Social Security and monthly expenses.

• Use pharmacy discount cards for prescriptions not covered under Part D.

• Look into “giveback” Medicare Advantage plans that refund part of your Part B premium.

• Schedule annual plan reviews before Open Enrollment each year.

CALL TO ACTION #1: TAKE THE ASSESSMENT

Find out if you qualify for low-cost or $0 premium coverage in minutes. Take the Medicare Savings Assessment to uncover hidden benefits that can save you hundreds each year.

CALL TO ACTION #2: ACT NOW TO SECURE YOUR COVERAGE

Don’t wait for the next enrollment deadline. If you’re living on a fixed income, you deserve affordable healthcare that works for you.

Schedule your free Medicare review today to find out what benefits you qualify for and how much you could save.

Author: John Ortiz