FAQs
“Where can I go for reliable Medicare answers?”
Click here for a list of reliable sources & tips on how to “Google it” safely.
“How much do you charge for your services?”
We never charge for our services, they are always free.
I’m turning 65 this year and I plan to retire. When am I eligible to enroll into Medicare?
Assuming you’ve met work-related eligibility requirements, you may begin Medicare enrollment 90 days prior to the month you turn 65.
Will I be automatically enrolled in Medicare or do I need to take action.
That depends. If you are drawing social security at the time of or before you become Medicare eligible, you are automatically enrolled in Medicare. If not, you will need to take action to be enrolled.
Where do I go to enroll for Medicare?
Online at www.SSA.gov or in person at a local Social Security office.
What does it mean when they say “Original Medicare”?
“Original Medicare” is the first two parts of Medicare. It is where Medicare got started. It includes Part “A” which is hospitalization and Part “B” which is doctors visits. Other parts of Medicare were added later.
What are parts “C” and “D” of Medicare?
Let’s start in reverse. Part “D” is Medicare prescription drug coverage that was added to Medicare in 2006. Part “C” is another name for Medicare Advantage. Advantage plans are administered through private insurance companies and are another way to get your Medicare benefits.
Do I need to enroll in Part “A” and Part “B” of Medicare?
That depends. If you plan to stay on employer coverage, you may want to enroll in Part A only. However, if you do not stay on active employer coverage, you will most likely want to enroll in both A and B.
Can I just have “Original Medicare” A+B as my health insurance at retirement?
Yes. However, with A+B only, you wouldn’t have drug coverage and would also be faced with significant exposure on deductibles and co-insurance associated with Parts A&B. You would also have penalties in the future if you decided to pick up drug coverage later. We recommend having drug coverage and some kind of secondary coverage as well as A+B.
Can I keep my employer coverage?
Maybe if your employer coverage is “creditable”. For example, if the employer group has 20 eligible employees or more, and you’re going to continue to work, then yes it’s an option. But there are many things to consider.
What is creditable coverage?
This is a Medicare term for coverage being at least as good as Medicare’s.
I am entitled to retiree health benefits. Does that mean I won’t need Medicare?
No, a retiree plan will typically act as secondary coverage to Medicare primary benefits. Therefore, you will most often still need Medicare.
Can my dependent spouse be on my Medicare plan?
Medicare is federally sponsored individual coverage. If your spouse is Medicare eligible then they can enroll in Medicare for themselves.
What happens if I miss my designated enrollment window into Medicare?
In addition to having a gap in coverage, you will likely face a penalty from Medicare. Penalties include a 10% Part “B” penalty for each 12-month period without creditable coverage, and a 1% Part “D” penalty for each month without creditable drug coverage.
Can I keep all my same doctors when I’m on Medicare?
You usually can. However, it’s important to be sure your doctor accepts Medicare. Some don’t.
Does Medicare have dental coverage?
Original Medicare does not have dental coverage. However, many Medicare Advantage plans include it and it can also be added as a “stand alone” plan.
Does Medicare cover me if I’m in a nursing home?
No! This is often a point of confusion. Medicare never covers long term care. It will cover a limited stay in a rehabilitation facility. If using original Medicare, you will need to have had a 3 day hospital stay prior to entering rehab. Medicare Advantage waves the 3 days.
Can I have both a Medicare Advantage Plan and a Medicare Supplement Plan?
No