Whether you’re new to Medicare, getting ready to turn 65, or preparing to retire, you’ll need to take several important steps before getting started with Medicare. If you wait to enroll, you may have to pay a penalty, and you may have a gap in coverage. Use these steps to gather information so you can make informed decisions about your Medicare.
Step 1: Learn about the 4 Parts of Medicare
The different parts of Medicare help cover specific services. Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. Learn about the 4 parts of Medicare in our simple guide here.
Step 2: Find out when you can enroll.
There are only certain times when people can enroll in Medicare. Depending on the situation, some people may get Medicare automatically, and others need to apply for Medicare. The first time you can enroll is called your Initial Enrollment Period. Your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period usually:
-
- Begins 3 months before the month you turn 65
-
- Includes the month you turn 65
-
- Ends 3 months after the month you turn 65
If you don’t enroll when you’re first eligible, you may have to pay a Part B late enrollment penalty, and you may have a gap in coverage if you decide you want Part B later.
Step 3: Decide if you want Part A & Part B
As you are getting ready for Medicare, it’s important to decide if you need part A and Part B. Most people should enroll in Part A when they turn 65, even if they have health insurance from an employer. This is because most people paid Medicare taxes while they worked so they don’t pay a monthly premium for Part A. Certain people may choose to delay Part B. In most cases, it depends on the type of health coverage you may have. Everyone pays a monthly premium for Part B. The premium varies depending on your income and when you enroll in Part B. Most people will pay the standard premium amount of $174.70 in 2024.
Step 4: Sign up for Medicare (unless you’ll get it automatically)
Some people automatically get Part A and Part B. Find out if you’ll get Part A and B automatically. If you’re automatically enrolled, you’ll get your red, white, and blue Medicare card in the mail 3 months before your 65th birthday or your 25th month of disability. If you don’t get Medicare automatically, you’ll need to apply for Medicare online.
Step 5: Choose your Medicare Coverage
If you decide you want Part A and Part B, there are 2 main ways to get your Medicare coverage — Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO). Some people get additional coverage, like Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) when sticking with Original Medicare. You will also need to make sure you have Part D Prescription drug coverage to avoid penalties. You can learn more about the difference between MAPD and Medicare Supplements HERE. Most people who are still working and have employer coverage don’t need additional coverage.
Have additional questions about Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, or general Medicare questions? For more information, or to speak to a friendly, licensed agent contact us HERE.
