Policy Wagon Reviews vs. SelectQuote: An Honest Look

You’ve seen the commercials promising a simple, one-stop shop for your Medicare needs. But when a service is free, it’s smart to ask what’s happening behind the scenes. So, is SelectQuote reliable? While many online reviews praise their friendly staff and easy process, others mention aggressive sales tactics and communication issues. This select quote review provides a balanced look at their services. We’ll help you understand their strengths and weaknesses so you can decide if SelectQuote is a good company for your health and budget.

Key Takeaways

SelectQuote is a broker, not an insurer: They connect you with plans from their partner companies, which can save you time by showing you multiple options at once. Your actual policy and customer service will be with the insurance carrier you choose.
You won’t see the whole market: SelectQuote shows you plans only from the specific insurance companies they partner with. While this provides variety, it’s not a complete overview of every plan available in your state.
Their service is free for you to use: You don’t pay extra to work with SelectQuote. They earn a commission from the insurance company after you enroll, so the price you pay for your plan is the same whether you use them or go directly to the insurer.

So, What is SelectQuote?

You’ve probably seen their commercials or come across their name while searching for insurance. SelectQuote is a major player in the insurance world, but what do they actually do, especially when it comes to Medicare? Let’s take a closer look at their business model and what they bring to the table. Understanding how they operate is the first step in figuring out if they’re the right fit for your needs.

What Kind of Insurance Can You Get?

SelectQuote is an insurance comparison platform where you can get quotes for several types of coverage, including life, auto, home, and Medicare insurance. They are well-known for bundling home and auto policies, often advertising significant savings for customers who do so. While they cover a wide range of insurance products, our focus here is on their Medicare plan offerings. Their goal is to provide a one-stop shop where you can compare different plans from various insurance companies side-by-side. This can be appealing if you’re looking to manage multiple insurance needs through one service or simply want to see a broad spectrum of options available in your area.

How Does the SelectQuote Process Work?

It’s important to understand that SelectQuote isn’t an insurance company. They don’t create the policies or handle claims themselves. Instead, they function as a large insurance agency that partners with many different insurance carriers. Think of them as a go-between. You tell them what you’re looking for—in this case, a Medicare plan—and they connect you with quotes from the various companies in their network. Their licensed agents then help you sort through those options. This model is designed to simplify the shopping process by putting multiple quotes in front of you without you having to contact each insurance company individually.

The Story Behind SelectQuote

SelectQuote has been in the insurance business for over 35 years, which gives them a long track record in the industry. They started out focusing on life insurance and have since expanded into the home, auto, and Medicare markets. The company promotes itself as a trusted source for comparing complex insurance products, aiming to make the process more transparent for consumers. Having been around since 1985, they have grown into one of the most recognized names in the insurance comparison space. This history provides a level of establishment, but it’s still just one piece of the puzzle when evaluating their service today.

Understanding Their Marketing Claims

SelectQuote builds its brand on a promise of simplicity and choice, highlighting over 35 years of experience in helping customers compare insurance plans. While they function as a broker, connecting you with various insurance carriers, it’s crucial to understand that their marketplace isn’t exhaustive. They only present plans from a limited number of partner companies, which means you won’t get a full view of every option available in your area. Many customers leave positive reviews on sites like Trustpilot, praising friendly and knowledgeable agents. However, the company has also faced legal scrutiny over its sales practices, particularly concerning its Medicare Advantage plan sales. This doesn’t mean you can’t find a good plan through them, but it underscores the importance of knowing that their “comparison” is within a curated network, not the entire market.

How Does SelectQuote Stack Up?

When you’re looking for a Medicare plan, you’ll quickly find that SelectQuote is just one of many options available. It’s a big marketplace, and understanding how different brokers operate can help you make a more informed decision. Each has its own approach, from technology-driven platforms to a focus on personalized agent support. Looking at them side-by-side is the best way to see which one aligns with your needs and preferences. Let’s walk through how SelectQuote stacks up against some of the other major players in the field, including us here at The Big 65.

The Big 65

Here at The Big 65, our primary goal is to empower you with clear, unbiased information. We believe the best way to find the right plan is to understand all your options. That’s why we provide a comprehensive overview of different insurance choices, including a wide range of Medicare plans. We emphasize the importance of comparing multiple brokers because we know that the best fit is different for everyone. Our approach is educational, ensuring you have the knowledge you need to choose a plan with confidence, without feeling pressured. We work for you, not the insurance companies.

SelectQuote

SelectQuote operates as a large insurance agency, not an insurance company. This means they don’t underwrite the policies themselves. Instead, they connect you with quotes from many different carriers. This model allows them to offer a variety of options tailored to your specific needs. Because they work with numerous partners, SelectQuote aims to provide solutions for different types of insurance, including term life and car insurance, in addition to their Medicare options. This can make them a versatile choice if you’re looking to bundle different insurance products through a single agency.

eHealth

If you’re comfortable with online research and prefer a self-service approach, eHealth might be a good fit. They are well-known for a user-friendly online platform that makes it simple to compare Medicare plans on your own time. The platform is designed to be intuitive, allowing you to filter and sort through a wide range of options with ease. While they offer agent support, their strength lies in their digital tools. Our eHealth Medicare review notes their strong focus on customer service, which complements their powerful online comparison experience for consumers.

GoHealth

GoHealth combines technology with a personal touch. They offer a personalized approach to finding a Medicare plan, connecting you with licensed agents who can help you sort through the complexities. Their agents use a technology-driven platform to analyze your needs and find suitable plans, which helps streamline the process. This blend of human expertise and efficient technology is designed to enhance the user experience. If you appreciate having a dedicated agent to talk to but also want the benefits of modern tools, GoHealth’s model is structured to provide that balance of support and efficiency.

HealthMarkets

HealthMarkets stands out for its broad selection of insurance products, which goes beyond just Medicare. They emphasize their commitment to finding clients the best possible coverage at the most competitive price. Their agents have access to a wide portfolio of plans from various carriers, giving you plenty of choices. This focus on both variety and value is a core part of their service model. According to our HealthMarkets Medicare review, their goal is to ensure you don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability, making them a strong contender if budget is a top concern for you.

What You Get with SelectQuote

When you start looking for a Medicare plan, you’ll quickly find there are a few ways to approach it. You can go directly to an insurance company, work with an independent agent, or use a large comparison platform like SelectQuote. Understanding what to expect from a service like this can help you decide if it’s the right path for you. SelectQuote positions itself as a one-stop shop, designed to simplify the process of finding and comparing insurance policies.

They aren’t an insurance company themselves; instead, they act as a large agency that connects you with various carriers. This means their main job is to present you with options from their network of partners. Their process typically involves a phone call with a licensed agent who will ask about your needs and then provide quotes. They also have online tools you can use to get started. The goal is to give you a streamlined way to see multiple plans and prices without having to contact each insurance company individually. Let’s walk through the key features of their service so you have a clear picture of how they operate.

Shop Plans from Top Insurance Carriers

One of the first things to understand is that SelectQuote isn’t an insurance company. Instead, they are a large agency that connects you with quotes from many different carriers. Think of them as a marketplace. Rather than going to each individual insurance company’s website or office, you can work with SelectQuote to see a variety of plans from different providers all at once. This can be a huge time-saver, especially when you’re just starting your research and want to get a sense of what’s available. Their model is built on giving you access to a portfolio of insurance partners they work with.

A Closer Look at Their “Limited Portfolio”

While having access to multiple carriers in one place is convenient, it’s important to understand what “multiple” really means in this context. SelectQuote works with a specific, limited list of insurance companies. This means that when their agents show you options, they are only pulling from that pre-approved list. You won’t see every plan available in your area, only the ones from their partners. This is a critical distinction because the most suitable or affordable plan for your unique situation might be offered by a company that isn’t in SelectQuote’s network.

This limited selection can be a significant disadvantage. Imagine finding a plan that seems good, but not knowing there’s another one with better prescription drug coverage or a lower deductible available from a different insurer. Because you’re only seeing a slice of the market, you could unknowingly miss out on a better deal. This is why working with an independent broker who represents a wider range of companies can be beneficial. At The Big 65, we believe in showing you the complete picture, so you can compare all your options and make a choice based on full transparency, not just a curated selection.

Another point to consider is how agents are compensated. Like most large agencies, SelectQuote’s agents earn commissions from the insurance companies for the plans they sell. While this is standard practice, it can sometimes create a conflict of interest. An agent might have an incentive to recommend a plan from a particular carrier over another, even if it’s not the absolute best fit for you. This is why it’s so important to work with someone you trust to put your interests first. You should always feel like your agent is your advocate, focused solely on finding the right coverage for your health and financial needs.

Easy-to-Use Price Comparison Tools

SelectQuote’s main value proposition is helping you compare prices. During a call with one of their agents, they will give you quotes from a limited portfolio of insurance companies. This allows you to see how different plans stack up against each other in terms of monthly premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket costs. While this is helpful for a side-by-side comparison, it’s important to remember that their portfolio is limited. This means you won’t see every single plan available in your area, only the ones from the specific insurance companies they partner with. So, while it’s a comparison tool, it’s not a comprehensive market overview.

Get Guidance from Licensed Agents

When you work with SelectQuote, you’ll be speaking with a licensed agent. Their role is to help you through the insurance buying process. A broker streamlines the process by working with multiple insurance carriers to shop around and compare your options for coverage. These agents are trained to explain the differences between plans, answer your questions, and help you complete the application paperwork if you decide to enroll. This personal support can be particularly helpful if you find the terminology and details of Medicare plans confusing. The agent is your primary point of contact throughout the shopping experience.

Helpful Online Tools and Resources

In addition to phone support, SelectQuote offers a range of online tools and resources. Their website is designed to be a starting point where you can learn about different types of insurance and request quotes. This approach gives you a few ways to engage with them. You can go directly to an insurance company on your own, work with an independent agent, or use a large comparison platform like SelectQuote to get started. If you’re comfortable doing research online, you can use their site to gather initial information before speaking with an agent, making that conversation more productive.

Are There Any Special Offers?

SelectQuote often highlights potential savings and promotions, particularly for bundling different types of insurance. For example, they note that customers can save significantly on their home and auto insurance bundle. While this specific offer isn’t for Medicare, it shows that their business model includes looking for discounts for their customers. When you speak with an agent, it’s always a good idea to ask if there are any special enrollment periods, cost-saving programs, or other promotions that might apply to the Medicare plans you’re considering. They may have access to carrier-specific discounts or other ways to lower your costs.

Legal and Ethical Concerns Surrounding SelectQuote

While a company’s marketing and customer-facing services are important, it’s also wise to look at its business practices and reputation. When you’re making a decision as important as your healthcare coverage, you want to work with a company you can trust completely. SelectQuote has faced significant scrutiny regarding its operations, including a major lawsuit and troubling reports from former employees. These issues raise questions about their sales tactics and whether their agents’ advice is always in the best interest of the client. Understanding these concerns is a critical part of your research, as it provides a more complete picture of the company you might be working with.

This information isn’t meant to alarm you, but to empower you. Knowing the full story—the good and the bad—helps you ask the right questions and be more aware during your interactions. Your peace of mind is paramount, and that comes from feeling confident that your insurance partner is transparent and has your best interests at heart. Let’s look at the specific legal and ethical issues that have been raised so you can weigh them for yourself.

The Department of Justice Lawsuit

It’s one thing to hear customer complaints, but it’s another when the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) gets involved. The DOJ has intervened in a lawsuit against SelectQuote, bringing serious allegations about the company’s business practices to light. This level of federal involvement is significant and suggests the claims are being taken very seriously. The lawsuit centers on how SelectQuote conducted its business, particularly in the Medicare Advantage market, and whether it was fully transparent with its investors and, by extension, its customers. This legal action has put a spotlight on the company’s internal operations and created cause for concern among consumers and investors alike.

Allegations of an Illegal Kickback Scheme

The core of the lawsuit revolves around accusations of an illegal kickback scheme. The DOJ alleges that from 2016 to at least 2021, SelectQuote received what amounts to “tens of millions of dollars” in improper payments from certain insurance carriers. The lawsuit also claims that SelectQuote was not honest with its investors about these practices, especially concerning its Medicare Advantage sales. These types of arrangements can create conflicts of interest, where an agent might be incentivized to recommend a particular plan not because it’s the best fit for you, but because it’s more profitable for the company. You can read more about the lawsuit to understand the full scope of the allegations.

Impact on Stock Price

News of the Department of Justice’s involvement had an immediate and significant financial impact on the company. On the day the DOJ’s intervention was announced, SelectQuote’s stock price fell by 19%. A drop that substantial reflects a serious loss of confidence from the investment community. For consumers, this can be an indicator of the severity of the allegations. When investors react so strongly, it often signals that the issues at hand could have a lasting impact on the company’s stability and reputation. It underscores that the concerns are not minor and are being watched closely by the financial world.

Reports from Former Employees

Beyond the legal challenges, reports from people who have worked inside the company offer another perspective. Former employees have described a work environment that raises questions about the company’s sales culture. These firsthand accounts suggest that the customer experience may be influenced by internal pressures that prioritize sales quotas over the individual needs of clients. When agents are pushed to meet aggressive goals, the quality of advice can suffer. This insight into the company’s internal dynamics is valuable, as it can help you understand the motivations that might be driving the agent you speak with on the phone.

High-Pressure and Misleading Sales Tactics

Several former employees have reported a high-pressure sales environment at SelectQuote. They describe a culture where agents are pushed to meet demanding sales goals, which can lead to manipulative tactics and misleading promises, particularly when dealing with older adults. This kind of environment can create a situation where the agent’s primary focus is on closing a sale rather than providing the best possible guidance. Finding the right Medicare plan should be a careful, considered process, not a rushed decision fueled by pressure. This is why we believe in an educational approach, ensuring you feel supported and confident, not sold to. These ethical concerns highlight the importance of working with an advisor whose only goal is your well-being.

SelectQuote Reviews: What Are Customers Saying?

When you’re making a big decision like choosing a Medicare plan, hearing from people who have already been through the process can be incredibly helpful. Online reviews offer a glimpse into what it’s really like to work with a company. While every experience is unique, looking at the patterns in customer feedback for SelectQuote can give you a more complete picture of what you might expect. It’s wise to look at both the positive and negative comments. This balanced view helps you weigh the pros and cons based on what matters most to you. Let’s explore what customers are saying about their experiences.

A Look at the Numbers: Trustpilot and NPS

When you’re evaluating a company, customer feedback and satisfaction scores can tell you a lot. On Trustpilot, SelectQuote Life Insurance holds a strong rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, based on over 11,000 customer reviews. This score suggests that most people walk away with a positive impression. Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable and friendly staff, often pointing out how smooth and straightforward it was to get quotes and finalize their insurance plans through the service. This kind of feedback is encouraging, as it shows the company can deliver an efficient and pleasant process for many of its customers, which is exactly what you want when dealing with something as important as insurance.

Of course, it’s important to look at the full picture, and not all the feedback is glowing. Some customers have reported running into communication issues, like having a hard time reaching their agent or experiencing delays in the approval process. A few reviews also bring up aggressive sales tactics, which can be a major turn-off when you’re just looking for clear answers. To balance this, SelectQuote reports a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 58, which is considered ‘Great.’ These metrics suggest that despite some negative experiences, a significant number of customers are satisfied enough with the service to recommend it to friends and family.

What Customers Love About SelectQuote

Many people have positive things to say about their interactions with SelectQuote. A common theme in glowing reviews is the quality of the staff. Customers often describe agents as knowledgeable, friendly, and professional, which can make a complex process feel much more manageable. People also frequently mention that the process itself was straightforward and easy. For those who are new to Medicare or just want to find a plan without a lot of hassle, this is a huge plus. Many reviewers on sites like Trustpilot also express satisfaction with the affordable prices they were able to find, feeling confident they secured a good deal on their coverage.

Common Customer Complaints to Watch For

On the flip side, some customers have run into issues. One of the most frequent complaints involves communication. Some people report receiving too many calls and emails from different agents, which can feel overwhelming and confusing. When you’re trying to make a clear decision, this kind of aggressive follow-up can be a major drawback. Other customers have mentioned experiencing delays in the process, such as waiting longer than expected for medical reviews to be completed or for their policy documents to arrive. While less common, there are also a few highly negative reviews that mention serious problems like billing errors or unhelpful service. It’s important to remember these represent a minority of experiences, but they are still worth noting.

Unexpected Price Hikes and Coverage Denials

While many customers successfully find affordable plans, it’s worth noting that some have run into unexpected financial hurdles. A recurring theme in some negative feedback is that the initial quote isn’t always the final price. For example, some customer reviews mention the final premium was significantly higher than the first estimate, sometimes nearly double. Others have faced outright coverage denials without receiving a clear explanation, which can be incredibly frustrating when you’re trying to secure essential health coverage. These issues are sometimes made worse by delays in the underwriting process, such as waiting on medical records. One person even shared that a high blood pressure reading during their physical exam resulted in a more expensive monthly premium than they were originally quoted, highlighting how sensitive the final pricing can be to your health information.

How SelectQuote Responds to Feedback

How a company responds to criticism says a lot about its values. While no company is perfect, those that actively listen to their customers are better positioned to improve. Unhappy customers often provide the most direct path to understanding what isn’t working. By paying attention to complaints, businesses can identify weak spots and make necessary changes to create a better experience for everyone. This commitment to listening to customers is a good sign, as it shows they are invested in long-term satisfaction rather than just making a quick sale. When you see a company responding to and resolving negative reviews, it demonstrates a level of accountability.

Engagement with Negative Reviews on Trustpilot

On Trustpilot, SelectQuote holds an “Excellent” rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 11,000 customer reviews. While that high score points to a generally positive experience, how a company handles criticism is just as revealing. According to Trustpilot’s data, SelectQuote has only responded to 3% of its negative reviews. This limited engagement can be a point of concern, because when a company actively works to resolve negative feedback, it shows a real commitment to accountability. That kind of follow-through is essential for building trust, especially when you’re making important healthcare decisions. Given that some customers report aggressive sales tactics while others praise the friendly staff, seeing how the company addresses problems provides valuable insight into their values.

How Fast is the Approval Process?

One of the main reasons people turn to a broker is to save time, and SelectQuote aims to make the process efficient. Working with a life insurance broker can streamline your search by putting all your options in one place. Instead of you having to contact multiple insurance carriers one by one, an agent does the legwork for you. This approach allows you to compare different plans and prices much more quickly than you could on your own. While the exact timeline can vary depending on your specific needs and the underwriting process of the carrier you choose, using a comparison platform is generally faster than starting from scratch. The goal is to get you from initial research to an active policy as smoothly as possible.

Reports of Significant Delays

While a faster process is a major selling point, it’s worth noting that some customers have reported significant delays. These holdups often occur during the underwriting phase, which involves medical reviews and record gathering. For example, some customer reviews mention that the approval process took much longer than the initial estimate. One person noted their application took 11 weeks to finalize, far beyond the 4 to 6 weeks they were originally told. These delays can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to get your coverage sorted out in a timely manner. While not everyone experiences this, it’s a potential issue to be aware of as you consider your options.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Quote

If you decide to call SelectQuote, it helps to know what to expect. Understanding their process from start to finish can make you feel more confident and prepared. Let’s walk through the typical steps you’ll take with one of their agents, from the first phone call to applying for a plan.

What to Expect on Your First Call

Your first call with SelectQuote is all about getting to know you. Since they are a large agency and not an insurance company, their goal is to connect you with plans from the different carriers they partner with. The agent will ask about your health needs, the doctors you see, the prescriptions you take, and what you’re looking for in a Medicare plan. This conversation is the foundation for everything that follows. It’s their chance to gather the details they need to find quotes that are a good match for your specific situation.

What Paperwork Will You Need?

To make your call as productive as possible, it’s a good idea to have some information ready. You don’t need a mountain of paperwork, but having a few key items on hand will help the agent find the most accurate options for you.

Before you call, try to gather:

Your red, white, and blue Medicare card
A list of your current prescription medications, including dosages
The names of your primary doctor and any specialists you see regularly
Information about any current insurance coverage you have

Having this handy will make the conversation go smoothly and ensure the agent has the right details to work with.

How to Compare Your Insurance Quotes

After your initial conversation, the agent will present you with quotes from various insurance carriers. As a broker, SelectQuote’s role is to shop around for plans on your behalf. You’ll be able to see different options side-by-side, which can make it easier to compare costs and benefits. Pay close attention to the details of each plan, including the monthly premium, deductibles, copays, and which doctors and hospitals are in the network. This is your opportunity to weigh the pros and cons of each option based on what’s most important to you.

Making the Final Decision on Your Policy

Once you’ve reviewed your quotes, the next step is to choose a policy. The agent will give you options from the specific portfolio of insurance companies they work with. It’s important to know that this means you’ll see a selection of plans, but it may not include every single plan available in your area. Take your time with this decision. Ask the agent to clarify anything you don’t understand about the coverage. The goal is to select a plan that fits both your health needs and your budget, so don’t feel rushed into making a choice.

How Long Does It Take to Apply?

SelectQuote generally aims to make the application process quick and efficient. After you’ve chosen a plan, the agent will guide you through the enrollment paperwork. The exact time it takes can vary from person to person, depending on the plan you choose and the carrier’s requirements. For most people, the application can be completed during the same call or shortly after. The agent’s job is to help you get it done correctly so your new coverage can begin without any unnecessary delays.

Understanding SelectQuote’s Pricing

When you’re figuring out your budget for healthcare, you want to know exactly where your money is going. It’s important to understand the costs associated with your plan and how an agency like SelectQuote fits into the picture. The world of insurance can feel like it has its own language, especially when it comes to money. You might wonder if there are hidden fees, how agents are paid, and whether you’re truly getting the best price available. These are all valid and smart questions to ask. Getting clear answers helps you plan your finances and feel secure in the choices you make for your health coverage.

The good news is that the cost structure for using an insurance agency is usually straightforward, but it’s not always well-explained. Many people assume there must be a catch or an extra charge for getting help from a licensed agent, but that’s typically not the case. The entire system is designed so that you can get expert guidance without paying out of pocket for it. However, understanding how this works is key to feeling comfortable with the process. In this section, we’ll walk through how SelectQuote’s pricing and payment process works so you can have a complete understanding of the costs involved, from start to finish.

How Does SelectQuote Make Money?

First things first: you don’t pay SelectQuote for their help. Their service is free for you to use. SelectQuote is an insurance agency, not an insurance company. Their role is to connect you with various insurance carriers that offer Medicare plans. They aim to be a one-stop shop where you can compare quotes for different types of insurance, from Medicare to life and auto policies. Because they are an agency, their guidance and support throughout the application process come at no direct cost to you. Think of them as a matchmaker; they introduce you to potential insurance plans, and you decide which one is the right fit. The price you are quoted for a plan is the same price you would get if you went directly to that insurance company.

Are There Any Discounts Available?

You may see SelectQuote advertising discounts, particularly for bundling home and auto insurance policies. However, when it comes to Medicare, the concept of a “discount” is a bit different. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are standardized by the government. This means that a Plan G from one company offers the exact same basic benefits as a Plan G from another. The savings don’t come from a special discount but from comparing the monthly premiums charged by different insurance companies for the same plan. An agent can help you find the most competitively priced plan in your area. So, while you won’t find a ‘20% off’ coupon, you can find significant savings by choosing the carrier with the lowest rate for your specific plan.

Do They Offer Price Matching?

Since Medicare plan premiums are set by each insurance carrier and filed with the state, there’s no “price matching” like you’d find at a retail store. The key is to see a full comparison of the prices available to you. It’s important to know that SelectQuote provides quotes from a limited portfolio of insurance companies. This means you will only see options from the specific carriers they partner with, which may not represent all the plans available in your location. An independent broker, by contrast, can typically show you quotes from a much wider range of companies. The goal isn’t to match a price but to find the best initial price from a comprehensive list of options.

Are There Any Hidden Fees?

This is a common and very smart question. The good news is that you won’t pay any hidden fees for using SelectQuote’s service. Their help is provided at no cost to you. So, how do they make money? SelectQuote earns a commission from the insurance company when they help a customer sign up for a policy. This is the standard compensation model for most insurance agencies and brokers. The commission is built into the insurance company’s administrative costs and does not affect the premium you pay. You will pay the same monthly premium whether you use an agent or enroll directly with the insurance company yourself. The process is transparent, with no surprise charges.

What Are the Payment Options?

If you don’t pay SelectQuote, who do you pay? Once you choose a Medicare plan, you will pay your monthly premium directly to the insurance carrier that provides your coverage. SelectQuote helps you with the application and enrollment process, but your policy and financial relationship are with the insurance company you select. You can typically set up payments through direct withdrawal from a bank account, by mail, or through the insurance company’s online portal. SelectQuote’s role is to get you set up, but the ongoing payments are handled between you and your new insurance provider. They should make this process clear as you finalize your enrollment so you know exactly what to expect for your first payment.

How Good is SelectQuote’s Customer Service?

When you’re trying to find the right Medicare plan, the quality of service you receive is just as important as the price you pay. Understanding how an agency operates can help you set the right expectations and decide if they’re a good fit for you. Let’s look at the details of working with SelectQuote, from the expertise of their agents to the kind of support you can expect after you’ve signed up.

How Knowledgeable Are the Agents?

The agents at SelectQuote are licensed professionals who can help you compare plans. It’s important to know that SelectQuote isn’t an insurance company itself. Instead, it’s a large agency that represents a number of different insurance carriers. This means their agents are trained to sell policies from a variety of companies. While they can provide a broad overview of the market, their primary role is to connect you with a plan from one of their partners. They are equipped to explain the features and benefits of the plans they offer and can walk you through the enrollment process from start to finish.

How Can You Contact an Agent?

Most of your interactions with SelectQuote will happen over the phone. Their process is built around efficiency, aiming to provide you with quotes during your initial call. When you reach out, you’ll be connected with a licensed agent who will ask you a series of questions about your health, budget, and coverage needs. Based on your answers, they will then present you with several plan options from their portfolio of partner carriers. This direct, phone-based approach is designed to help you get quotes and make a decision quickly, without having to do all the research on your own.

The Impersonal Call Center Model

One of the most common points of feedback about SelectQuote revolves around its call center structure. This model often means you’ll speak with a different person each time you call, which can make the experience feel impersonal and sometimes frustrating. Instead of building a relationship with one agent who understands your unique health situation, you may find yourself explaining your needs over and over again. Some customers report feeling overwhelmed by a high volume of calls and emails after their initial inquiry. This can be a result of a high-pressure sales environment where agents are focused on meeting goals. While many people receive excellent service, it’s helpful to know that you might not have a single, dedicated point of contact throughout your Medicare journey.

What Are Your Coverage Options?

SelectQuote provides access to a wide array of insurance plans, but it’s not an all-encompassing view of the market. They work with a large but ultimately limited panel of partner insurance companies. This means that while you’ll get to compare several competitive options, you won’t see quotes from every single carrier available in your area. For many people, the selection is more than enough to find a suitable plan. However, if you want to be certain you’ve seen every possible option, you might also want to consult an independent broker who isn’t tied to a specific group of carriers.

What Are Their Hours of Operation?

SelectQuote is a large company that offers more than just Medicare plans. Their agents can also assist with life insurance, auto insurance, and home insurance. This broad scope means they aim to be a one-stop shop for many of your insurance needs. Their call centers generally operate on extended business hours, making it convenient to get in touch with an agent. Because they handle different types of insurance, you can often find a solution for various needs in one place. This can be helpful if you prefer to manage all your policies through a single point of contact.

Will They Help You with Claims?

SelectQuote’s main role is to help you through the shopping and enrollment process. An agent will help you compare plans, fill out the application, and ensure your policy is activated. They are there to handle every step of the insurance buying process. However, once your policy is in effect, your relationship shifts. For specific questions about your coverage, claims, or billing, you will typically work directly with the insurance carrier that issued your plan. The carrier’s customer service team will be your go-to resource for managing your policy and getting help when you need to use your benefits.

Is SelectQuote a Good Company for You?

Choosing a broker for your Medicare plan is a personal decision. What works for one person might not be the best fit for another. SelectQuote can be a useful tool for many, but it’s important to understand how they operate to determine if their model aligns with your needs. Thinking through your priorities—like whether you want the widest possible selection or a more guided experience—will help you make a confident choice. Let’s look at a few key points to help you decide if SelectQuote is the right partner for you.

Key Things to Consider Before Signing Up

First, it’s helpful to know that SelectQuote isn’t an insurance company. They are a large insurance agency that connects you with plans from various carriers they partner with. Think of them as a marketplace. This can be convenient because you can compare several options in one place without having to contact each insurance company individually. However, this also means their primary role is to facilitate the sale. The actual insurance policy you choose will be underwritten and managed by the carrier, like Aetna or Cigna, not by SelectQuote.

Important Questions to Ask Your Agent

When you speak with an agent, having a few questions ready can help you get the information you need. Since a broker’s job is to help you compare options, you want to understand the full scope of what they can offer.

Here are a few questions to get you started:

Which insurance companies do you represent for Medicare plans in my state?
Are you able to show me every plan available in my area, or only those from your partner companies?
What kind of support do you provide after I’ve enrolled in a plan?
How are your agents compensated?

Asking these questions can give you a clearer picture of the advice you’re receiving and the choices available to you.

Potential Red Flags to Watch For

One major point to be aware of is that SelectQuote works with a limited portfolio of insurance companies. While they partner with many well-known carriers, they don’t represent every company on the market. This means you won’t see every available option when you get quotes from them. If your goal is to conduct an exhaustive search of every single plan you’re eligible for, you may find their selection restrictive. This isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker, but it’s a critical piece of information. You are only seeing a slice of the market, which may or may not include the best or most affordable plan for your specific situation.

Who Are the Best Alternatives to SelectQuote?

When it comes to finding a Medicare plan, you have a few different paths you can take. You can go directly to an insurance company, use a large comparison platform like SelectQuote, or work with an independent agent. Going directly to a carrier means you’ll only see their products. Using a platform like SelectQuote gives you more variety, but as we’ve discussed, it’s from a limited panel of partners. An independent agent or broker often works with a much wider range of insurance companies and isn’t tied to any single one, giving them the flexibility to find the right plan for your unique needs without limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay to use SelectQuote‘s service? No, you do not pay SelectQuote for their help. Their service is free to you because they are paid a commission by the insurance company you choose to enroll with. This commission is already part of the insurance company’s administrative costs, so the monthly premium you pay is the same whether you use an agent or sign up directly with the carrier yourself.

Is SelectQuote an insurance company? SelectQuote is a large insurance agency, not an insurance company. This means they don’t create the policies or handle claims. Think of them as a marketplace that connects you with plans from the various insurance carriers they partner with. Your actual insurance policy will be with the company you choose, like Aetna or Cigna.

Will SelectQuote show me every Medicare plan available in my area? Not necessarily. SelectQuote provides quotes from a specific portfolio of insurance companies they have partnerships with. While this gives you a variety of options to compare, it does not represent every single plan available on the market. To see a more complete picture, you may want to speak with an independent broker who can show you plans from a wider range of carriers.

If I sign up for a plan through SelectQuote, who do I contact for help with claims? SelectQuote’s agents guide you through the shopping and enrollment process. Once your policy is active, your primary point of contact for questions about claims, billing, or using your benefits will be the customer service department of the insurance company that issued your plan.

Why use a service like SelectQuote instead of calling an insurance company directly? The main benefit is comparison and convenience. Instead of you having to research and contact multiple insurance companies one by one, an agent can show you several options in a single conversation. This allows you to compare costs and benefits side-by-side, which can save you a significant amount of time and effort.