Free Medicare Advantage Plans in 2022: $0 Monthly Premiums

September 12, 2022 amie-clark

Author: Amie Clark | September 12, 2022

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Aetna - Largest Provider Network

Overall Rating:

4.7 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
(855) 908-2871

What We Like ↓

Cigna - Lowest Premiums

Overall Rating:

4.4 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
866-932-5678

What We Like ↓

Humana - Best Extra Benefits

Overall Rating:

4.0 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
844-382-7911

What We Like ↓

Wellcare - Extra Benefits for Chronic Conditions

Overall Rating:

4.5 / 5

What We Like ↓

Flexible Care Options

Overall Rating:

4.0 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
855-635-3873

What We Like ↓

UnitedHelathcare - Best Over-the-Counter Benefits

Overall Rating:

4.6 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
(855) 908-2871

What We Like ↓

Compare How We Chose Providers How to Shop for Plans FAQ

Available nationwide, Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans combine Original Medicare benefits with coverage for gym memberships, dental, vision, and hearing health. Many of these Medicare Advantage plans have a $0 premium.

Not only can a Medicare Advantage plan help you keep costs down, but many of these $0 premium plans also include coverage for prescription medications.

A Note on Medicare Advantage Costs

There are many times when you may hear the term “Free Medicare Plans;” however, free is a bit misleading as there are still costs associated with the plans. For example, with Medicare Advantage, you’ll still have to pay your Part B premiums.

Pro Tip: To learn more about the costs of Medicare, read our guide to Medicare costs.

Best Free Medicare Advantage Plans Ranked

Aetna : Largest Provider Network
Cigna : Lowest Premiums
Humana : Best Extra Benefits
Wellcare : Extra Benefits for Chronic Conditions
Anthem : Anthem - Flexible Care Options
UnitedHealthcare : Best Over-the-Counter Benefits

Medicare Advantage Pricing Compared

Provider	Plans with $0 Premiums*
Aetna	8
Cigna	3
Humana	13
Wellcare	7
Anthem	8
UnitedHealthcare	8

*The premiums for Medicare Advantage plans will vary by location.

Our Top Picks

Aetna - Largest Provider Network

4.7 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
(855) 908-2871

What We Like Most:

Five plans to choose from
Additional benefits for plan members
No network restrictions
Keep your coverage even if you move

Plans with $0 Premiums:

Aetna Medicare Select (HMO)
Aetna Medicare Credit (HMO)
Aetna Medicare Premier Plus (PPO)
Aetna Medicare Choice (HMO-POS)
Aetna Medicare Premier (PPO)
Aetna Medicare Eagle (PPO)
Aetna Medicare Assure (HMO D-SNP)
Aetna Medicare Assure Plus (HMO D-SNP)

Overview

Aetna has been around since the 1800s and is one of the most notable Medicare Advantage providers.

They have plans throughout the United States. In addition to Medicare Advantage plans, Aetna is a provider of Medicare Supplement plans, Part D Prescription Drug Plans, and ancillary insurance products. Aetna’s SilverScript Medicare Part D company is well known for its excellent prescription drug coverage.

Aetna is part of CVS Health Corporation and has an AM Best Rating of A+. Aetna is one of the few Medicare Advantage plans that allow dental implants on some of their plans.

In addition to Medicare products, they provide Life, Dental, Vision, and Hearing Insurance options. Aetna’s PPO plans have easy access and even allow you to receive in-network services with select doctors when traveling out of your plan’s service area.

To learn more about Aetna’s plans, read our guide to Aetna Medicare Advantage.

Pros

Large network of providers
Has coverage for Dental Implants
You can find providers in-network providers even when traveling

Cons

Offshore Customer Service
In some areas, Copays aren’t as low as other insurance providers
Network-based plans that can be restrictive

Cigna - Lowest Premiums

4.4 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
866-932-5678

What We Like Most:

Large range of plans
Coverage for people with preexisting conditions
Foreign travel emergency coverage available
Skilled nursing facility coinsurance available

Plans with $0 Premiums:

Cigna True Choice Medicare (PPO)
Cigna Preferred GA Medicare (HMO)
Cigna Preferred Medicare (HMO)

Overview

Cigna is a reliable insurance company with a high financial strength rating of A- from AM Best. They strive for customer satisfaction.

Despite solid feedback from its customers, Cigna’s plans still have lower star ratings than many of its competitors. Cigna also has a more limited number of plans than most providers.

In addition to Medicare Advantage plans, Cigna offers other health care products such as Medigap insurance, dental, vision, and hearing coverage, as well as several ancillary products such as critical illness and hospital indemnity plans.

Cigna has several health plans that participate in the Senior Savings Model program to help with insulin costs. The Senior Savings Model helps keep the insulin costs down for beneficiaries that enroll in one of their participating plans.

To learn more about this provider, read our guide to Cigna Medicare Advantage.

Pros

More than 75% of their plans nationwide have a $0 premium.
Wide Range of Additional benefits.
Great Customer Service

Cons

Cigna only offers Medicare Advantage plans in 26 states and Washington D.C.
Restrictive Networks on most plans.

Humana - Best Extra Benefits

4.0 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
844-382-7911

What We Like Most:

Wide range of plans offered
24/7 customer service
Vision and dental add-ons available
High-deductible plan options

Plans with $0 Premiums:

CareFree (HMO)
CareOne PLATINUM (HMO)
CareOne PLUS (HMO)
Humana Gold Plus H1036-025 (HMO)
HumanaChoice Florida H5216-072 (PPO)
Humana Gold Plus H1036-265 (HMO)
Humana Honor (HMO)
HumanaChoice R5826-018 (Regional PPO)
CareNeeds PLUS (HMO D-SNP)
Humana Gold Plus SNP-DE H1036-102 (HMO D-SNP)
CareBreeze (HMO C-SNP)
CareComplete (HMO C-SNP)
Humana Gold Plus – Diabetes and Heart (HMO C-SNP)

Overview

Humana has two companies they offer Medicare Advantage plans through in St Petersburg, Florida. They have their typical Humana Brand and CarePlus.

The Humana branded plans will typically have a more comprehensive network. Humana is a leader when it comes to additional plan extras with generous over-the-counter benefits, SilverSneaker fitness rewards, and great transportation options.

Humana has some of the best customer services, and to date, they use representatives that are in the United States. So many insurance carriers have shipped their customer service departments overseas. It’s nice to see a company that, at least for now, handles it at home.

Of course, the benefits will vary from plan to plan and depend on where you reside. In many areas, Humana has one of the lower maximum out-of-pocket amounts for medical services. Humana has an extensive network of providers, making it easy to find a doctor you’ll like.

Humana also offers Medicare Supplement Insurance to offset the healthcare costs left over from Medicare. Their Medicare Advantage plan types include Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO), Private Fee For Service (PFFS), and Special Needs Plans (SNP).

To learn more about Humana, read our guides to Humana dental and Humana Medicare Advantage.

Pros

Great Customer Service
Low out-of-pocket maximum
Covers Dentures on many plans

Cons

Finding a dentist to take take the coverage
Food card has a lower allowance than some competitors
You can’t use Humana’s over-the-counter benefits at your local pharmacy. It’s available through mail order only.

Wellcare - Extra Benefits for Chronic Conditions

4.5 / 5

What We Like Most:

Refunds for Part B premiums
Extra benefits for those with chronic conditions
Flexible spending cards for hearing, dental, and vision
Good financial strength

Overview

Although Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans are only available in 36 states, we think they’re one of the best options for affordable (or non-existent) premiums, as well as extra benefits.

Wellcare has specialized plans for those with chronic conditions, and these plans often offer extra benefits like free meal delivery, as well as flexible spending allowances on hearing, health, and vision care.

On certain plans, Wellcare will even pay for a portion of the policyholder’s utility bills, something rarely seen with Medicare Advantage plans.

Pros

Refunds for Part B premiums
Extra benefits for those with chronic conditions
Flexible spending cards for hearing, dental, and vision
Good financial strength

Cons

Wellcare No Premium (HMO)
Wellcare No Premium Open (PPO)
Wellcare Giveback Open (PPO)
Wellcare Chronic Condition Special Needs plan (C-SNP)
Wellcare Institutional Special Needs plan (I-SNP)
Wellcare Dual Eligible SNP (D-SNP)

Anthem - Flexible Care Options

4.0 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
855-635-3873

What We Like Most:

Easy-to-use app to manage your account
Access to extras such as fitness programs
Wide range of plans
Optional drug, vision, and dental coverage

Plans with $0 Premiums:

Anthem MediBlue Access Basic (PPO)
Anthem MediBlue + Kroger Access (PPO)
Anthem MediBlue Plus (HMO)
Anthem MediBlue + Kroger (HMO)
Anthem MediBlue Service (HMO)
Anthem MediBlue Dual Advantage (HMO D-SNP)
Anthem MediBlue + Kroger Dual Advantage (HMO D-SNP)
Anthem MediBlue Dual Access (PPO D-SNP)

Overview

Anthem is the most prominent member of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. They offer Medicare Advantage plans in several states but aren’t nationwide. They also offer Anthem Medicare Supplement plans.

Still, they provide excellent plan options in the areas they service. They are a financially sound company with an AM Best rating of A.

Anthem offers plan extras that aren’t included under Medicare coverage. These benefits include wellness programs, Health Pantry service, LiveHealth online, and a 24-hour nurse helpline.

Members with chronic health conditions can qualify for pest control and service dog support.

They can receive routine pest control and have an allowance to spend annually for approved service dog supplies.

Anthem is a trusted name and well-known for taking care of the needs of its members. They have innovative online apps that help Medicare beneficiaries get the most out of their Medicare Advantage Plan.

To learn more about this provider, check out our full rundown of Anthem Medicare Advantage.

Pros

Unique plan extras
Good customer service
SilverSneakers

Cons

Only Available in select states
Comprehensive dental and vision benefits often have additional costs
Transportation benefits are lacking

UnitedHealthcare - Best Over-the-Counter Benefits

4.6 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
(855) 908-2871

What We Like Most:

Choose from a wide range of plans
AARP Medigap partner
Plans A, B, C, F, G, K, L and N offered
Plans vary by state

Plans with $0 Premiums:

AARP Medicare Advantage Choice (PPO)
AARP Medicare Advantage Focus (HMO-POS)
AARP Medicare Advantage (HMO-POS)
AARP Medicare Advantage Choice Plan 2 (Regional PPO)
AARP Medicare Advantage Patriot (Regional PPO)
UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete LP (HMO D-SNP)
UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete Choice (PPO D-SNP)
UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Walgreens (HMO C-SNP)

Overview

UnitedHealthcare is the largest Medicare plan provider in the U.S. They have plan options nationwide and provide the most significant benefits for healthy foods in many areas. They are a financially sound company with an A- rating from AM Best.

Endorsed by AARP, they seem to have some additional insight on how to design their plan offerings for today’s Medicare beneficiaries. They are unique in allowing their members more flexibility to use their OTC benefits more freely than most other insurance providers.

You can use all or part of the benefits for over-the-counter items or healthy food. In addition, mail order is available but not required to purchase the OTC items. In addition to Medicare Advantage plans, UnitedHealthcare also offers Medigap plans.

To learn more about this provider, read our full review of UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage.

Pros

UHC’s Over-the-Counter allowance can be used by its members for in-store purchases of healthy foods.
They offer their fitness program called Renew and Active
Well-known company endorsed by AARP

Cons

Maximum out-of-pocket are higher than other companies
They have fewer plan extras
High copays for the hospital

How We Chose the Best Free Medicare Advantage Providers

Extra Benefits: Since Medicare Advantage plans have similar medical coverage, in many cases, it comes down to which plans have the extra benefits you need. These additional benefits vary, and you should review your evidence of coverage to choose the plan that best fits your needs. Extra benefits can range from transportation and over-the-counter allowance to cash cards, utility assistance, and service dog support.
$0 Premiums: Many carriers have $0 premium options. However, that doesn’t mean they are all equal. Look at the summary of benefits to compare the maximum out-of-pockets, copay, and additional costs.
Prescription and Doctor coverage: Many of the $0 plans with lower costs will be HMO plans. If you have doctors you must keep, it’s vital to ensure they take the plan. You should also check your prescription drugs against the plan’s formulary.

How to Shop for Free Medicare Advantage Plans

When searching for a free Medicare Advantage plan, you should consider speaking with a licensed insurance agent. They can help you navigate the plans in your area and check your prescriptions and doctors, and look for the most important benefits.

You can’t enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan at any time. You must have a valid enrollment period, such as the Initial Enrollment Period, Annual Enrollment Period, Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, or a Special Enrollment Period. Your agent can assist you in determining when these timeframes will occur.

Also, be sure to check out our rundown of this year’s best Medicare Advantage plans overall.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Medicare Advantage really free?
No. There are costs associated with all Medicare Plans. The only exception is if you receive assistance from Medicaid that covers your remaining expenses. While these plans may have a $0 premium, there are out-of-pocket costs in the form of copays, deductibles, and coinsurance that you’re responsible for paying when you use the plan.
How do some Medicare Advantage plans have no premiums?
Medicare Advantage plans receive money from the Medicare program for each individual who enrolls. Plans with $0 premiums will usually have tighter networks, higher copays, and fewer plan extras. However, this isn’t always the case. If you live in an area with a lot of competition between companies, you can get excellent benefits on a $0 premium plan.
What costs remain with Medicare Advantage?
When you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, you’ll be responsible for continuing to pay your Medicare premiums and any premiums, copays, deductibles, or coinsurance outlined by the plan.
On average, how much does Medicare Advantage cost?
While you can enroll in a $0 premium Medicare Advantage plan in many areas, the average monthly cost of a Part C plan ranges between $38 and $105 per month. You’ll also have to pay your Medicare Part B premium.

Written By

Amie Clark

Amie has been writing about senior care products and services for the last decade. She is particularly passionate about new technologies that help improve the quality of life for seniors and their families. Seeing her parents and grandparents age made Amie ask herself, “Would this be good enough for my loved ones?” In her spare time, Amie enjoys outdoor adventures and spontaneous road trips. Learn more about Amie here