Southern Tide Benefits Consulting
Clear guidance. Confident choices.
Southern Tide Benefits Consulting is a family-owned Medicare agency built on compassion, clarity, and a genuine commitment to our community. We believe Medicare should feel understandable and approachable, not overwhelming. That's why we offer free, personalized guidance to help every client feel confident in their decisions and cared for along the way.
- Personalized one-on-one consultations
- Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans
- Plan comparisons from multiple insurance carriers
- Guidance before, during, and after enrollment
- Ongoing support as your healthcare needs change
Where to begin
Four places to start, depending on what you're sorting out. Not sure which one fits? Give us a call and we'll point you in the right direction.
Medicare
Turning 65, or reviewing the plan you already have. Understand what Medicare covers, when you can enroll, and how the parts fit together.
Explore MedicareAnnuities
Protecting what you've built and turning into income you can plan around.
Explore annuitiesLife Insurance
Protection for the people who depend on you. Compare term, whole, and universal policies and work out how much cover you need.
Explore life insuranceAdditional Coverage
Dental, vision, cancer, and long-term care insurance — coverage that sits alongside your health plan and helps with the costs it wasn't designed to pick up.
Explore additional coverageAreas we cover
Licensed across two states, coast to coast
Wherever you are in Texas or Washington, we can walk you through your options and help you enroll.
Not sure whether we cover your area? Give us a call and we'll tell you in a minute.
Medicare FAQs
Got questions? We've got answers
The six things people ask us most often.
When can I apply for Medicare?
You can apply during your Initial Enrollment Period, a seven-month window that opens three months before you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and closes three months after.
How do I apply for Medicare?
The easiest way is online at SSA.gov. You can also call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office.
Will I automatically be enrolled in Medicare?
If you are already receiving Social Security benefits, you will be enrolled in Original Medicare automatically. If you are not, you need to sign up yourself during your Initial Enrollment Period.
What if I miss my Initial Enrollment Period?
You can sign up during the General Enrollment Period, which runs January 1 through March 31 every year. Your coverage becomes effective the first day of the month after you enroll.
Are there penalties for enrolling late?
Yes. If you do not sign up for Part B when you are first eligible and you do not have other creditable coverage, a late enrollment penalty is added to your premium for as long as you have Part B. Part D has a separate late enrollment penalty that works the same way.
Can I get a replacement Medicare card?
Yes. Order a replacement by calling 1-800-772-1213 or through the Social Security Administration website. Have your Medicare number ready when you call.