Medicare Enrollment 2026: What You Need to Know Before October
The Annual Enrollment Period brings key changes. Here's what every beneficiary should review.
Read ArticleFrom navigating the complexities of Medicare to planning for long-term care across 9 states, Balcones Advisors provides the structural integrity your life demands.
Four integrated practice areas. One trusted team. Structurally sound protection.
Our founding specialty. We decode Medicare Advantage, Supplement, and Part D options so you make the right choice — not just the easiest one.
ExploreIndividual, family, and group health plans. We shop across carriers to find coverage that fits your needs and budget — whether you're self-employed, between jobs, or building a team.
ExploreProtect what you've built. We structure term and permanent life insurance, plus annuities for guaranteed retirement income, so your family's foundation stays solid.
ExplorePlan for what's ahead. Long-term care coverage and disability protection so a single medical event doesn't undo decades of financial work.
ExploreAnswer a few quick questions. We'll point you in the right direction.
Based on your answers, we recommend scheduling a free consultation. We'll review your situation and build a tailored recommendation.
Rooted in Austin. Trusted across 9 states. We began our journey by guiding clients through the maze of Medicare. Today, as Balcones Advisors, we bring that same patient, fierce advocacy to health insurance, long-term care, annuities, and disability planning.
We handle the complex, so you can focus on building your future.

Founder & Principal
Medicare & Health Insurance specialist with 15+ years of experience guiding families through complex coverage decisions across 9 states.
At Balcones Advisors, you work directly with Chris — not a call center, not a chatbot, not a junior associate. Every client gets the same level of attention: thorough analysis, honest recommendations, and ongoing support.
That's the advantage of working with an independent advisor. No quotas to hit, no carrier loyalties. Just the right coverage for your situation.
Schedule a ConversationGuiding individuals and families through Medicare, health insurance, and long-term planning since day one.
Texas, Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
Our services are free. We're compensated by the carriers — your cost is the same whether you come to us or go direct.
Client testimonials coming soon. In the meantime, schedule a free consultation and see for yourself.
We recommend starting 3-6 months before your 65th birthday. Your Initial Enrollment Period begins 3 months before the month you turn 65 and ends 3 months after. Missing this window can result in late-enrollment penalties.
An agent typically represents one or a few carriers. A broker — like Balcones Advisors — works on YOUR behalf and shops across dozens of carriers to find the best combination of coverage and cost.
No. We offer complimentary reviews. There's no obligation and no fee. We earn our compensation from the carriers — the cost to you is the same whether you come to us or go direct.
The ideal time is in your 50s or early 60s, when premiums are still reasonable. Waiting until you need it usually means you can't get it. We'll help you evaluate standalone, hybrid, or self-funding approaches.
Texas, Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Tennessee. If you're elsewhere, reach out anyway — we're actively expanding.
The Annual Enrollment Period brings key changes. Here's what every beneficiary should review.
Read ArticleTerm covers a window. Permanent builds equity. Most families need both at different stages — here's how to think about it.
Learn More70% of Americans over 65 will need long-term care. Most aren't prepared. Here's how to plan.
Read ArticleFixed, variable, indexed — we cut through complexity and show you when annuities make sense.
Read ArticleDeadlines, documents, and decision points — everything you need before your enrollment period.
Download PDF →Term vs. permanent, how much coverage you actually need, and what to do at each life stage. Coming soon.
Learn More →Compare plans side by side — premiums, deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums.
Download PDF →Understand coverage types, costs, and how to evaluate standalone vs. hybrid approaches.
Download PDF →Whether it's a quick question or a full review, we're here.
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