Questions before you reach out? Straight answers.
Here's how working with us actually works, in plain English. Have a question about a specific kind of coverage? Each plan has its own FAQ, listed below.
Looking for a specific kind of coverage?
Pick the one that fits. Each page answers the questions we hear most.
Medicare Advantage
Networks, drug coverage, extra benefits and when you can change plans.
Read the FAQMedicare Supplement (Plan G)
What Plan G covers, what it doesn't, and when to apply.
Read the FAQMarketplace (ACA) plans
Open Enrollment, tax credits and plans for individuals and families.
Read the FAQProtector Plan
A limited-benefit plan. Not major medical and not a Marketplace plan.
Read the FAQLife insurance
Term and whole life, how much coverage, and how approval works.
Read the FAQEmployer benefits
Group health, dental, vision and life plans for small businesses.
Read the FAQGeneral questions
Type a word in the search box to find an answer fast.
How it works
How does working with you work?
You tell us a little about your situation, through a form on this site or a phone call. Brandon or Jade reviews it personally.
We ask about your doctors, prescriptions and budget. Then we compare plan options from the insurance companies we work with and walk you through what we find. Asking a question doesn't mean you have to enroll with us.
What happens after I send a request?
Brandon or Jade will reach out at the phone number or email you gave us, at the time you picked, to set up a short conversation. If your question is urgent, calling us at (352) 706-8081 is faster.
I already have a plan. Can you still help?
Often, yes. Plans, networks and drug lists can change from year to year, even if you don't change anything.
A quick review can confirm your current plan still fits, or show you other options to consider. There's no cost or obligation either way.
Can you help me if I don't live near you?
Yes, in the 10 states where we're licensed. We help clients by phone, and in person near The Villages, Florida.
Do you help after I enroll?
Yes. A new doctor, a new medication or a move can change what fits. Call us any time with questions, and we'll check in each year too.
Cost and who we are
Is your help really free? How do you get paid?
Yes, there's no cost to you for our help. Insurance companies pay licensed agents like us when a policy is issued. You don't pay us.
Plan prices are set by the insurance company, not by us. Comparing options and getting our honest opinion costs you nothing, whether or not you enroll with us.
Are you part of Medicare, the government or HealthCare.gov?
No. Sowder Insurance is Brandon and Jade Sowder, Licensed Independent Insurance Agents/Brokers with Mayfield & Associates, a private, independent insurance agency.
We are not the Health Insurance Marketplace or Medicare. We're not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government, HHS, CMS, HealthCare.gov or any state Marketplace.
Do you offer every plan from every insurance company?
No. No agent offers every company or every plan in your area. We'll tell you which companies we work with.
For all your Medicare options, you can also contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE. For Marketplace plans, you can visit HealthCare.gov (CoverME.gov in Maine).
What states are you licensed in?
Brandon Sowder (NPN 20622977) and Jade Sowder (NPN 20595181) are Licensed Independent Insurance Agents/Brokers in Florida, Alabama, Arizona, Michigan, Maine, North Carolina, South Carolina, Indiana, Ohio and Montana.
Your information and how we contact you
Will you fill my phone with calls and texts?
No. We only contact you about the coverage you asked about. On our request forms, the consent box names exactly what we may call or text you about.
Checking that box is never required to buy anything. You can call us instead. You can reply STOP to any text, or ask us to stop calling at any time.
Helpful emails and updates are a separate, optional checkbox. You're not signed up for them unless you check it.
Do you sell my information?
No. We don't sell your personal information. Our Privacy Policy explains how we use and protect it.
Why do I need to sign a form before we talk about Medicare plans?
Before we talk about specific Medicare plans, Medicare requires a short Scope of Appointment form. It confirms which kinds of plans you want to discuss. We'll send it to you.
Choosing coverage
Which kind of coverage is right for me?
It depends on your age, current coverage, doctors and budget. A short conversation sorts that out.
Not sure where to start? Call (352) 706-8081, or use the form on our home page and choose "Not sure yet." We'll ask a few questions and point you the right way.
When can I sign up for or change a plan?
It depends on the kind of coverage. The main dates are:
- Medicare Annual Enrollment Period: October 15 to December 7 each year.
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period: January 1 to March 31, if you're already in a Medicare Advantage plan.
- Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment: the 6 months that start when your Part B starts, if you're 65 or older.
- Marketplace Open Enrollment for 2027: November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027. Enroll by December 15 for coverage starting January 1.
Some life changes, like moving or losing other coverage, can open a Special Enrollment Period. Life insurance and employer plans follow their own timelines. Ask us what applies to you.
Can you help me with Marketplace tax credits?
Yes. When you apply for a Marketplace plan with us, we'll make sure you get the tax credits you qualify for, based on your household and income estimate.
We're not tax advisors. For questions about how tax credits affect your tax return, please talk with a tax professional.
Ready to compare your options?
Tell us what you need in about a minute. No cost and no obligation.