When should I use Form CMS-40B?

Use Form CMS-40B if you are over 65, were covered under a group health plan through an employer, and are now ready to enroll in Medicare Part B. This form is submitted to Social Security to activate your Part B coverage.

What is Form CMS-L564 and who fills it out?

Form CMS-L564 is completed by your employer to confirm you had qualifying group health coverage. Social Security requires it alongside your CMS-40B to verify eligibility for a Special Enrollment Period and avoid a late enrollment penalty.

What if my employer cannot complete Form CMS-L564?

If your employer is out of business, unresponsive, or otherwise unable to complete Form CMS-L564, you can use Form SSA-795 (Statement of Claimant) to personally attest to your prior qualifying coverage.

How do I appeal an IRMAA Medicare premium increase?

If your income has decreased due to retirement, divorce, or another qualifying life event, you can appeal your IRMAA increase using Form SSA-44. This may reduce your Part B and Part D premium payments if Medicare is using outdated income data.

How do I appeal a Medicare Part D Late Enrollment Penalty?

Use Form CMS-1696 to request reconsideration of a Part D Late Enrollment Penalty if you had creditable drug coverage through an employer, the VA, or another qualifying source during the period in question.

How do I get Medicare to reimburse me for out-of-pocket medical expenses?

Use Form CMS-1490S (Patient's Request for Medical Payment) when Medicare should have paid a provider directly but did not, and you paid out of pocket. Submit this form to request reimbursement for covered services.

How do I get Obamacare (ACA Marketplace insurance)?

Affordable Care Act insurance, also called Obamacare, is available during the annual Open Enrollment Period from November 1 through January 15. You can also enroll via a Special Enrollment Period if you have experienced a qualifying life event. The Stern Team can help you check subsidy eligibility and find the right plan at no cost to you.

Is The Stern Team Insurance hiring?

Yes. The Stern Team is always looking for positive, detail-oriented individuals to join our team as licensed insurance agents. We provide licensing support, training, tech tools, marketing support, and a commission-based compensation structure. Contact us to learn more about joining the team.

About Us | The Stern Team Insurance

The Stern Team has been providing Northern Virginia with health insurance, life insurance, and group health insurance for businesses since 2003. Our services are free and our priority is helping individuals, families and businesses.

We represent all major life and health insurance carriers and are part of HealthMarkets, one of the largest independent insurance agencies in the U.S.

Stern Team Licensed Health and Life Insurance brokers in Fairfax

Stern Team Medicare expert in the Fairfax Community

We live here too.

Having a local life insurance expert and licensed health insurance advisor in Northern Virginia means you’ll receive personalized service, reliability and accountability.

Our Services

Meet our team

Our comprehensive suite of professionals caters to a diverse team, ranging from seasoned architects to renowned engineers.

Jeremy Stern, Virginia Agency Manager. Licensed Broker since 2003

Mike Lovelace, Woodbridge VA
7+ years in Health & Life

Cory Weaver, Leesburg,VA 15+ years, Medicare Expert, over 80 5 star Google Reviews

Melinda Kier, Manassas VA 4+ years

Mary Crispino, Clifton, VA 15+ years, Medicare & Health Insurance Expert

Lisa Humes, Annandale, VA

10+ years, Medicare Expert

Yad Othman, Richmond VA
5+ years, 45 5 Star Google Reviews

JD Dornes, Fairfax, VA Individual & Group Health

We’ve worked with some of the best companies.

FAQs

When can I buy health insurance?

The health insurance Open Enrollment Period is November 1, 2025, to January 15, 2026. You can still get insurance outside of these dates if you have had a qualifying life event such as turning 26, losing employer coverage, adding a dependent or loving.

What is life insurance and do I need it?

Life insurance is a contract between you and an insurer where you pay premiums in exchange for a guaranteed tax-free payout (death benefit) to anyone who is dependent on you, upon your death. It provides financial security by replacing lost income, paying off debts and covering funeral costs so your loved ones don’t have to if you pass away.

What is the difference between HMO and PPO plans?

The two biggest differences are referrals and network flexibility. HMOs require referrals and restrict you to in-network providers. PPOs require neither, but cost more. Which is better depends on your situation. If you want lower costs and have one primary doctor you trust, an HMO may be the right fit. If you have multiple specialists or want maximum flexibility, a PPO can be worth the higher premium.

How do I get Obamacare?

Affordable Care Act insurance is also called “Obamacare.” To get it you must apply during the annual Open Enrollment period November 1, 2025, to January 15, 2026, or via a Special Enrollment Period if you have had life changes. You will need to provide household income and personal information to check for premium subsidies and select a plan.

How do I get Medicare?

Most people are automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B when they turn 65, provided that they are already receiving Social Security. If you’re not receiving Social Security, you’ll need to actively sign up through Social Security online at ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213 or by visiting your local Social Security office. The Stern Team can walk you through the process and help you avoid costly enrollment mistakes.

Is the Stern Team insurance group hiring?

Yes. The demand for health insurance and Medicare is especially high right now, and we are always looking for positive, detailed-oriented individuals to help serve Northern Virginians. Contact us or apply now at HealthMarkets.com if you are interested in learning more about becoming a Licensed Insurance Agent.

Is HealthMarkets a legitimate company?

Yes. HealthMarkets was founded in 1983 and is one of the largest independent insurance agencies in the United States. It offers a free, technology-driven platform to browse health, Medicare, life, and supplemental insurance plans from more than 250 insurance companies. The Stern Team operates as part of the HealthMarkets network, which means our clients benefit from the resources of a national organization combined with the personal service of a local Northern Virginia team.

Interested in working with us?

We’re hiring Licensed Agents that fit in with our positive, success driven team.

Role Flexibility: Agents can build their own business, working with individuals, families and small businesses.
Licensing & Training: Support roadmap is provided for those needing to get licensed.
Support System: Receive tech tools, backend and marketing support.
Compensation: The structure includes commissions that can increase based on sales volume, alongside bonuses.

Learn More