It’s that time—you’re nearing your 65th birthday. Congratulations! You start seeing ads for Medicare, but is Medicare the right thing for you? Medicare can be a bit overwhelming to understand at first, but we can help you navigate through all the confusing details and show you just how easy it is to sign up!
Medicare is insurance provided by the Federal Government designed specifically for those 65 and older, and in some cases, younger individuals with disabilities. It is set up like an umbrella, covering different aspects of insurance that you will see listed as Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D.
Medicare Parts Explained
• Part A: Hospital Insurance. This covers things like inpatient hospital stays, care in a nursing facility, hospice care, behavioral and mental health, and some home health care. • Part B: Medical Insurance. This covers both medically necessary services such as diagnosing and treating a medical condition and preventative services such as screenings, shots and vaccines, and “wellness” visits. In other words, Part B will cover certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, and medical supplies.
• Part C: Medicare Advantage. These are ‘bundled’ plans offered by private companies that combine Part A and Part B, and sometimes Part D. Some plans may offer extra benefits that original Medicare doesn’t cover, like vision, hearing, and dental.
• Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage. This helps with the cost of prescription medications, including many shots or vaccines.
It’s a good idea to review your options to better understand what you need and if original Medicare or Medicare Advantage would work best for you. You will also want to consider if you will need any additional benefits or Part D coverage included with the plan you choose. You can always check out medicare.gov or contact Social Security for additional questions and detailed information before you make a decision. You can also reach out to your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), which can provide you with free, personalized counseling.
Ready to Sign Up?
Timing is everything, so make sure you know your sign-up window. Your initial enrollment period (IEP) is a seven-month window that starts three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month, and ends three months after. Signing up during this period helps you avoid late penalties.
There is a special enrollment period (SEP) that you may qualify for when you retire or lose coverage from a job you previously held that provided you with health coverage.
The general enrollment period (GEP) begins January 1st and goes through March 31st each year. If you miss your IEP, you can sign up during this time with coverage beginning July 1st.
Did you know that if you are already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits for at least four months before turning 65, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B?
Ready for the Easy Part? Signing Up!
At American Benefit Services, we are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of Medicare, ensuring you understand your options and choose the plan that best meets your healthcare needs and budget. Secure your health and peace of mind with the right Medicare plan.
There are three simple ways to sign up—just make sure you have your documents ready. You’ll need your birth certificate, proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency, and Social Security card.
• Online: Head over to the Social Security website at socialsecurity.gov to fill out the application.
• Phone: Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). • In Person: Visit your local Social Security office. It’s a good idea to call ahead and set up an appointment.
Once you’ve enrolled, you’ll receive your Medicare card in the mail and that’s it! Your medical needs are covered, so now all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy that well-deserved slice of birthday cake!