I’m turning 65 this year and I plan to retire. When am I eligible to enroll into Medicare?
Assuming you have met the work-related eligibility requirements, you may begin enrollment into Medicare 90 days in advance of the month you turn 65.
Can my dependent spouse be on my Medicare plan?
Medicare does not cover spouses or dependents. If your spouse has reached the age of eligibility (65), they can enroll in Medicare on their own 90 days before the month in which they turn 65.
Can I keep my employer coverage?
Maybe. If the employer group has 20 or more eligible employees and you want to keep working, then yes, it’s an option. But there are a lot of things to consider.
Do I need to enroll in Part “A” and Part “B” of Medicare?
Part A is usually in place and could be a paid-up benefit when you turn 65. Part B is not, unless you have enrolled in Social Security before the age of 65. If you have not enrolled for Social Security benefits, you must proactively enroll for and begin paying Part B benefits.
Can I just have “Original Medicare” A+B as my health insurance at retirement?
Of course, but please note that without prescription drug coverage, you may incur a late enrolment penalty and face unfunded out-of-pocket expenses due to gaps in Original Medicare.
Can I keep all my same doctors when I’m on Medicare?
In most cases you can, but it’s important to check that your doctor is a Medicare-accepting provider, as not all are.
Does Medicare cover me if I’m in a nursing home?
Certainly, you’re covered for a maximum of 100 days following a mandatory three-day hospitalization period.
Does Medicare have dental plans?
No. However, certain Medicare Advantage plans do provide dental benefits.
I am entitled to retiree benefits. Does that mean I won’t need Medicare?
No, a retiree plan usually complements the primary benefits of Medicare.
What is Part “D”?
Medicare unveiled Part “D” in 2006, a Prescription Drug plan for enhanced coverage.
What happens if I miss my designated enrollment window into Medicare?
Apart from the substantial coverage gap, you could also incur a Medicare penalty. This might involve a 10% Part “B” premium increase for each 12-month gap and up to 1% of the national average of a Part “D” plan for each missing month of Part “D” coverage.
What is a Part “C” plan?
Medicare Advantage Plans, also referred to as Part “C,” encompasses various names like MA, MSA, or MA-PD (when including prescriptions).
Where do I go to get signed up for Medicare?
You can apply either through SSA.gov online or by visiting a nearby Social Security office in person.
What is creditable coverage?
In Medicare, this signifies having prior coverage that’s at least as comprehensive as Medicare’s standards. It’s especially relevant for Part “D” to prevent penalties.
Should I have both a Medicare Advantage Plan and a Medicare Supplement Plan?
No. It is not possible to have both plans at the same time.