Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period has begun, and runs through December 31, 2010. During this time, people with Medicare can select or change their Medicare Part D prescription drug plan for 2011.

With the annual enrollment period for Medicare arriving, a free online guide is available now for seniors about to turn 65 and become eligible for Medicare. The guide offers insight into the complexities of Medicare, including the rules surrounding enrollment, benefits, and coverage as well as Medicare premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and how to use private Medicare supplemental plans to fill gaps in coverage that leave many retirees with substantial out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.

1. Plan ahead for your retirement health insurance needs. Americans are eligible for Medicare at age 65, so take this into consideration if you plan to retire at an earlier age.
2. If you plan to retire from your job before the age of 65 and are not eligible for Medicare, check to see if you are eligible for COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act). COBRA is a federal law that typically entitles you to continue your employer's health insurance coverage for up to 18 months. Check with your state insurance department to learn about COBRA laws in your state.

Medicare.gov contains all you need to know about Medicare.

The site contains an in-depth glossary of terms to answer your Medicare questions.

This is the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services website. You can find answers to your Medicare and Medicaid questions here, although the amount of information can be overwhelming. Fortunately, the “Contact CMS” button will link you to dozens of helpful telephone numbers.

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