Medicare is incredibly fascinating-for a few. And insanely frustrating-for everyone else. It's a complex, confusing law that causes anxiety and angst. There are layers, twists, and turns depending on your unique circumstances. And somehow, as you approach 65, you're supposed to know how to create your own Medicare "recipe" with no directions.

There are parts-the ingredients-to sign up for. Part A. Part B. Part D. And the pieces to add on or not. Medigap. Dental. Vision. There's even a substitute for Medicare, Part C.

There are three different times when you can sign up, but only one of those times will be the right time for you to avoid a penalty. And it might not be at 65.

Turns out, Medicare isn't one insurance plan. You don't make just one decision. But the consequences of your decisions can cost you a pretty penny.

If you're one of the vast majority who have no idea about Medicare, this book is your best starting place. Think of it like a recipe with ingredients and instructions for success. Inside you'll find much of what you need to make your own best Medicare decisions:

• The basics about the Medicare law.
• Explanations about the various parts and pieces of Medicare.
• Estimates for how much health insurance is really going to cost.
• Instructions for when to apply on time to avoid penalties.

Plus, you'll get comparison charts, lists of key questions, instructions for choosing the right parts, and a worksheet to estimate your own complete costs for healthcare once in Medicare.

You'll see how to avoid gaps in coverage by creating your own Medicare recipe. Really, it's almost like making chocolate chip cookies. Let's get started together.