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FAQ Sections
Q) When is the optimal time to start looking at Medicare options?
A) Medicare planning can happen anytime prior to age 65. With the cost of healthcare, this becomes an important factor in retirement planning. If you're not planning retiring, it's highly advisable to consider your options for healthcare, as there are many factors that can affect your situation. Many people believe it's best to stay on their Group Health plan, but that is not always the case. My experience in both the Group Health insurance business and Senior market is ideally suited to help you this scenario and make the best decision for yourself and your dependents.
Q) When can I enroll in Medicare?
A) Typically, Medicare eligibility begins the first of the month of of your 65th birthday. If your birthday falls on the first of the month, your effective date would be the first of the month prior to tuning 65. Medicare Parts A & B must be activated through the Social Security Administration. You can sign up 3 months prior to your effective date. It's important to initiate your Part A & B early as it can take several weeks to receive your card.
Q) How do I enroll in Medicare Part A & B?
A) You can enroll in Medicare Part A and/or Medicare Part B in the following ways:
- Online at www.SocialSecurity.gov.
- By calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY users 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday, from 7AM to 7PM.
- In-person at your local Social Security office.
Q) Do I need to sign up for Medicare if I am still working?
A) No need to double up on coverage
But if you're still working at 65, and you have coverage under a group health plan through an employer with 20 employees or more, then you don't have to enroll in Medicare right now. That said, it often pays to enroll in Medicare Part A on time even if you have health coverage already. This can be a tricky question and should be discussed with a professional to determine the best short and long-term outcome.
Q) Is it mandatory to sign up for Medicare at age 65?
A) It is mandatory to sign up for Medicare Part A once you enroll in Social Security. The two are permanently linked. However, Medicare Parts B, C, and D are optional and you can delay enrollment if you have creditable coverage.