---
title: Help retired IL teachers into a MedSupp instead of the State's TRIP program
description: The State of Illinois recently announced significant changes to the Teachers Retirement Insurance Plan (TRIP). The program has always resembled a MedSupp plan F, but now they're being moved to a Medicare Advantage plan. You can help them get what they really want.
---

[Insurance Marketing Insights for Independent Agents | New Horizons](https://blog.newhorizonsmktg.com)

# [Help retired IL teachers into a MedSupp instead of the State's TRIP program](https://blog.newhorizonsmktg.com/help-retired-il-teachers-into-medsupp-instead-of-trip-program4687)

 Written by [Jeff Sams](https://blog.newhorizonsmktg.com/author/jeff-sams) | Nov 20, 2013, 5:13:00 PM

The State of Illinois recently announced their new plan for retired teachers. There have been significant changes to the **Teachers Retirement Insurance Plan** (TRIP). The program has always resembled an F plan. The majority of teachers found the coverage to be comprehensive and affordable in the marketplace.

The State of Illinois has awarded new contracts to 3 companies;

- Humana
- United Health
- Coventry

The biggest surprise is that they are only offering the Medicare Advantage program. The traditional [medicare supplement](https://blog.newhorizonsmktg.com/medicare-supplements.htm) is not being offered, and many teachers are finding themselves confused as to what is best for them going forward. I have read most of the [literature that the state has released](http://www.trs.state.il.us) and it is easy to understand why the retired teachers are left with more questions than answers.

> It is in the best interests of most teachers to opt out of the state's program.

**Agents in Illinois have never had a better opportunity to help out teachers.** It is in the best interests of most teachers to opt out of the state's program. Take advantage of the 63-day open window to get a medicare supplement without underwriting. The Plan F is what they have been used to having in benefits, and the premium is very close to what they have been paying.

The Medicare Advantage program has its place but I wish the State of Illinois would have at least made available an option to have a medicare supplement. My biggest fear for the retired teachers is that none of the MA programs are guaranteed renewable, so who knows what their benefits or deductibles and co-insurance will be in the future. It is our job to make sure these retired teachers know they have an option that the State will not show them - but it may be the best option. Their healthcare taken care of by you - the Pro!

Happy selling! Please give us a call if you have any questions regarding the TRIP issues.

[View full post](https://blog.newhorizonsmktg.com/help-retired-il-teachers-into-medsupp-instead-of-trip-program4687)

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