Turning 65 or retiring in New Hampshire is an important milestone, and it often brings big decisions about Medicare. Whether you live in Hillsborough County, Merrimack County, Rockingham County, or farther north in Belknap, Carroll, Grafton, Cheshire, Strafford, Sullivan, or Coös County, Medicare is not something that should be rushed or handled online in a few clicks. These are decisions that affect your health and finances for years to come, and they deserve time, attention, and clear guidance.
One of the most common misconceptions we hear is that everyone must enroll in Medicare the moment they turn 65. Many New Hampshire residents are still working at 65 and have employer-sponsored health insurance, and in some cases it makes sense to delay certain parts of Medicare. In other cases, enrolling right away provides better coverage and lower costs. There is no universal answer, which is why understanding your full picture—your work status, coverage, prescriptions, doctors, and retirement plans—is so important.
Medicare itself has multiple parts, including Part A for hospital care, Part B for medical services, and Part D for prescription drugs. Many people also choose either a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare Supplement policy to help manage out-of-pocket expenses. What many people don’t realize is that Medicare Advantage plans vary by county across New Hampshire. The options available in Merrimack County may differ from those in Hillsborough or Rockingham County, and plans in the Lakes Region or North Country can look very different from those in southern New Hampshire. Provider networks, premiums, benefits, and extra coverage, such as dental and vision, can all change depending on where you live.
At Woodpecker Insurance, we believe Medicare decisions should never feel confusing or rushed. That’s why we meet with our clients in person, either at our Concord office on Main Street or through a home visit for those who prefer the comfort of their own space. Sitting down face to face allows us to slow things down, answer every question, and make sure nothing is overlooked. We take the time to go over every detail—how Medicare works, when to enroll, which plans are available in your county, and how each option affects your doctors, prescriptions, and overall costs.
Our goal is simple: to help you make Medicare decisions that truly make sense for your life and give you the best health coverage possible, not just for this year, but for the years ahead. We compare Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans carefully, explain the differences in plain language, and help you understand the long-term impact of each choice. There is no pressure and no one-size-fits-all solution—just thoughtful guidance tailored to you.
Whether you are still working, planning retirement, or already retired, timing matters. Coordinating Medicare enrollment with the end of employer coverage is critical to avoiding gaps, delays, and permanent penalties. Having a local expert walk you through this process can provide peace of mind during what should be an exciting transition.
Woodpecker Insurance proudly serves individuals and families across all ten New Hampshire counties. As a local, independent agency, we are here before, during, and long after enrollment. Our services come at no cost, and our relationships with clients are built on trust, accessibility, and ongoing support.
If you are turning 65 or planning to retire anywhere in New Hampshire—from Concord to the Seacoast, the Lakes Region, or the North Country—we invite you to meet with us in person. A conversation, done carefully and face-to-face, can make all the difference. Woodpecker Insurance is here to help you understand your options, make confident decisions, and secure health coverage that truly fits your needs.