Question 1

Q: I’m turning 65 this year and I plan to retire. When am I eligible to enroll into Medicare?

Accepted Answer

A: 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.

Question 2

Q: Can my dependent spouse be on my Medicare plan?

Accepted Answer

A: Medicare does not have spousal or dependent coverage. Medicare is individual. If your spouse has reached age eligibility (65), then they can enroll in Medicare of their own accord 90 days in advance of the month they turn 65.

Question 3

Q: Can I keep my employer coverage?

Accepted Answer

A: Maybe. 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.

Question 4

Q: Do I need to enroll in Part “A” and Part “B” of Medicare?

Accepted Answer

A: Part “A” is typically in place, and a paid-up benefit when you turn 65. Part “B” is not, unless you have enrolled in Social Security prior to age 65. If you have not filed to receive Social Security benefits, then you need to proactively enroll in Part “B” benefits and begin paying for them.

Question 5

Q: Can I just have “Original Medicare” A+B as my health insurance at retirement?

Accepted Answer

A: Yes. However, you will not have prescription coverage, and you will face unlimited exposure to those costs due to the gaps in Original Medicare.

Question 6

Q: Can I keep all my same doctors when I’m on Medicare?

Accepted Answer

A: You usually can. It’s important to be sure your doctor accepts Medicare. Some don’t.

Question 7

Q: Does Medicare cover me if I’m in a nursing home?

Accepted Answer

A: Yes, for up to 100 days, after a required three-day hospital stay.

Question 8

Q: I am entitled to retiree benefits. Does that mean I won’t need Medicare?

Accepted Answer

A: No, a retiree plan will typically wrap around Medicare primary benefits.

Question 9

Q: What is Part “D”?

Accepted Answer

A: Part “D” is the Prescription Drug plan Medicare introduced in 2006.

Question 10

Q: What happens if I miss my designated enrollment window into Medicare?

Accepted Answer

A: In addition to having a huge gap in coverage, you will likely face a penalty from Medicare. A Part “B” penalty can be 10% of your Part “B” premium for each 12-month period outside of Medicare, and up to 1% of the national average of a Part “D” plan for each month absent Part “D”.

Question 11

Q: What is a Part “C” plan?

Accepted Answer

A: Part “C” is another name for Medicare Advantage. Also named MA, MSA, or MA-PD (when prescriptions are included).

Question 12

Q: Where do I go to get signed up for Medicare?

Accepted Answer

A: Online at SSA.gov or in person at a local Social Security office.

Question 13

Q: What is creditable coverage?

Accepted Answer

A: This is a Medicare term that establishes previous coverage being at least as good as Medicare’s. Typically is in play for Part “D” to avoid penalty.

Question 14

Q: Should I have both a Medicare Advantage Plan and a Medicare Supplement Plan?

Accepted Answer

A: No.

Medicare FAQs