When you turn 65, you become eligible for the Original Medicare program. Do you need to enroll?
If you are turning 65 this year, you may want to set aside a little time to make some decisions about Medicare. Not understanding Original Medicare enrollment can result in life-long late enrollment penalties and higher premiums.
Enrolling into Original Medicare can be a simple process. It is up to you to know if you need to sign up when you turn 65 or wait and continue with other health coverage past the age of 65.
Which of the following applies to you?
Are you nearing age 65, ready to retire and enroll in Medicare?
3 months before you turn 65, research your Medicare options and register for both Medicare Part A and Part B.
You can do so one of the following ways:
- Online with Medicare
- Online with Social Security
- Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213
- Visit your local Social Security Office
Are you nearing age 65 and going to continue to work?
Most Americans should enroll in Original Medicare Part A when they are first eligible at age 65, but you may be able to delay Part B.
The size of your employer will determine if you can delay Medicare Part B enrollment and not have to face a late enrollment penalty later.
If there are 20 or more employees in the company:
- Check to make sure you have group health plan coverage (as defined by the IRS). Your employer’s benefits manager is a great place to start!
- Compare Medicare’s coverage with your employer’s plan benefits.
You may be able to delay Part B enrollment with Medicare!
If there are 20 or less employees in the company:
You should sign up for Medicare Part A and Part B when you are first eligible one of the following ways:
- Online with Medicare [click here]
- Online with Social Security [click here]
- Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213
- Visit your local Social Security Office
After you have enrolled in Medicare Part A and B, contact a Medicare Team member to purchase a Medicare Supplement, Prescription Drug (PDP) or Medicare Advantage Plan.
Are you over age 65 and ready to retire now?
3 months before you are ready to retire, enroll into Medicare Part A (if you did not at age 65) and Part B.
You can do so one of the following ways:
- Online with Medicare
- Online with Social Security
- Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213
- Visit your local Social Security Office
You will need these forms.
CMS-L654
Request for Employment Information
CMS-40B
Application for Medicare Part B
Submit them to your Social Security Office.
Check out a Medicare 101 Workshop for more assistance.
Medicare planning is one of the most important choices you will make. Visit with a local and trusted expert.
We know Medicare in Montana
Our approach is individualized and focuses on what fits your situation.
If you are nearing age 65 or have questions in regards to Original Medicare, we can help.
Contact a member of the Roger L. Daniel Insurance Medicare Team.