Welcome to our Newsletter
As we welcome 2026 with sunny skies and chilly weather. It is a new year to look forward to. Whatever you plan to do, we wish you all the best. We would like to share our first newsletter from the Q&A, which we received from you.
Medicare Q&A
Traveling outside the US, the two Medicare options, what is OEP, and Part D
When we met with you, we noticed that the number one question was how Medicare pays when traveling outside the USA. Will your Medicare pay when you are on a cruise ship? We have detailed information for you.
Traveling outside the US, the two Medicare options, what is OEP, and Part D
When we met with you, we noticed that the number one question was how Medicare pays when traveling outside the USA. Will your Medicare pay when you are on a cruise ship? We have detailed information for you.
Medicare Q&A Cont'd:
Are you still confused about the two Medicare options? What are the differences?
Either you have original Medicare with a Medicare supplement and Prescription drug plan or a Medicare Advantage plan. We have the comparison sheet for you. Hope this clears things up!
Part D Plans Deductible
Most Part D drug plans have a deductible, but you usually don’t have to worry about it for generic medications in Tier 1 or Tier 2. If your prescriptions fall into Tier 3 to Tier 5, just keep in mind that your first fill will cost more because the deductible applies. The good news is that in 2026, the most you’ll pay out of pocket for your medications is capped at $2,100.
Individual & Family Health
Comparing Types of Health Plans
As you know, premiums have increased because the enhanced tax credit has expired. Consequently, some dropped their coverage in 2026. We understand the reasons and share our compassion. We hope everyone will be able to have health coverage in 2027 when the state of Oregon launches its own marketplace. What options do you have in 2026? We reached out to OHA and received a comparison of different types of health plans, which we would like to share with you.
Group Health Insurance
You need at least one W2 Employee
Group rates faced the rate increase as well. Group health insurance provides benefits by reducing taxable business expenses, helping companies save money while also supporting employee satisfaction. You can have group health insurance when you have at least one W2 employee. Tip: Spouse of the business owner does not count as an employee even if he or she is on payroll.
Need a quote, call, or text us at 503-538-6022
What Other Questions Do You Have?
Please share your thoughts on topics you have an interest in reading more. We will do our best to find the information. Simply email us at answers@chehaleminsurance.com or text us at 503-538-6022.
Every Day Is A Sunny Day! Why?
When we moved from Portland to Newberg in 1998. The home was up on a hill on Hwy. 219. The east windows face the sunny blue skies with Mt. Hood and the forest as a background. In 2001, we searched for a business name. We are here in Chehalem land. Voila! Chehalem Insurance was born. Looking out the window with sunny skies gave us big smiles every day. We know in our hearts, we want to serve our clients and our community to have Every Day is a Sunny Day!