Medicare FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I’m turning 65 this year and I plan to retire. When am I eligible to enroll into Medicare?
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.
Q: Can my dependent spouse be on my Medicare plan?
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.
Q: Can I keep my employer coverage?
A: It depends on how you are receiving your current insurance. If you are receiving employer-sponsored health insurance through either your or your spouse's job when you turn 65, you may be able to keep your insurance until you (or your spouse) retire(s).
Q: Can I just have “Original Medicare” A+B as my health insurance at retirement?
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.
Q: Can I keep all my same doctors when I’m on Medicare?
A: You usually can. It’s important to be sure your doctor accepts Medicare. Some don’t.
Q: Does Medicare cover me if I’m in a nursing home?
A: Yes, for up to 100 days, after a required three-day hospital stay.
Q: I am entitled to retiree benefits. Does that mean I won’t need Medicare?
A: No, a retiree plan will typically wrap around Medicare primary benefits.
Q: What is Part “D”?
A: Part “D” is the Prescription Drug plan Medicare introduced in 2006.
Q: What happens if I miss my designated enrollment window into Medicare?
A: In addition to having a  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”.
Q: What is a Part “C” plan?
A: Part “C” is another name for Medicare Advantage. Also named MA, MSA, or MA-PD (when prescriptions are included).
Q: Where do I go to get signed up for Medicare?
A: Online at SSA.gov or in person at a local Social Security office.
Q: What is creditable coverage?
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.
Q: Should I have both a Medicare Advantage Plan and a Medicare Supplement Plan?
A: No, you may only have either a Medicare advantage plan or a Medicare Supplement plan at any given time, never both.

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